Reykjavik: sights, facts and flights
Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and the northernmost city in the world with capital status, with around 140,000 inhabitants. It is traveled to as a base for exploring the country's volcanic landscapes and glaciers, but also for its cultural offer, its unique architecture and its calm and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
What to see
The center can be walked without difficulty. The Hallgrímskirkja church, with its concrete facade imitating basalt columns, is the visual reference point and from its tower you can see the whole city and the bay. A few minutes away is the Sun Voyager sculpture, a steel structure evoking a Viking ship, located by the sea.
The Harpa Concert Hall, with its geometric glass facade, is another essential landmark, both for its architecture and for housing the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. The building is open to the public and you can walk through its interior without paying admission.
Neighborhoods and how to get around
The historic core is concentrated around Laugavegur street, the main commercial artery, and Ingólfstorg square. Here are the shops, cafes and restaurants, and it is where urban life is concentrated. The Vesturbær neighborhood, to the west, is residential and quiet, with low colored houses and some small neighborhood cafes.
To move around, the center is compact and can be walked in less than an hour. For longer distances, the urban bus network covers the entire city, although it is not frequent. Many visitors rent a car at Keflavík Airport (KEF), about 50 km away, to combine the city with excursions around the island.
Eating and nightlife
The gastronomic offer is based on local products: fresh fish, lamb and, as a specialty, the hot dog from the famous Bæjarins Beztu stall, near the port. There are numerous modern Nordic cuisine restaurants, although prices are high. To eat cheaply, supermarkets and cafe soups are a practical option.
Nightlife is known for its intense atmosphere, especially from Thursday to Saturday. Bars are concentrated on Laugavegur and adjacent streets, and it is common for people to go out late and end up in small nightclubs. Beer is expensive, but the live music offer, with local bands, makes up for it.
Nearby escapes
The classic escape is the Blue Lagoon, about 50 km to the southwest, a geothermal spa in a lava field with milky blue waters. It is popular and crowded, so it is advisable to book in advance. Another option is the Golden Circle, which includes Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area, less than two hours by car.
For something closer, the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, west of the city, offers coastal walks and views of Mount Esja, ideal for a short hike if the weather permits.
- Hallgrímskirkja – Lutheran church with panoramic tower, the most recognizable building in the city.
- Harpa Hall – Concert and conference center with glass facade, next to the port.
- Sun Voyager – Steel sculpture on the coast, symbol of the Viking spirit.
- Blue Lagoon – Geothermal spa 50 km away, with mineral-rich waters.
- Laugavegur – Main street of shops, bars and restaurants, heart of the center.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Reykjavik?
It depends on what you are looking for. From June to August there is almost 24-hour light and mild temperatures, ideal for touring the city and taking excursions. From September to March, there are more chances to see the Northern Lights, but the climate is cold and days are very short, with barely four or five hours of light.
Is it expensive to travel to Reykjavik?
Yes, it is one of the most expensive capitals in Europe. Food, transport and accommodation have high prices. To save money, it is advisable to cook or eat in supermarkets, use the bus instead of taxis and book excursions in advance. The Blue Lagoon and organized tours represent a significant expense.