Reykjavik, the Capital of Iceland: A Guide to Exploring the Charming City and Its Surroundings

If you're planning a trip to Iceland, make sure to include a visit to its capital city, Reykjavik. This charming and vibrant city is home to some of the country's best cultural attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. With a population of just over 130,000, Reykjavik is a small and cozy city that's easy to explore on foot. In this article, we'll take you through some of the top things to see and do in Reykjavik, as well as some possible day tours you can take to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Getting to Reykjavik

Reykjavik is located in the southwest of Iceland, and the easiest way to get there is by flying into Keflavik International Airport, which is about 45 minutes away from the city. Once you're in Reykjavik, you can explore the city on foot, by bike, or by using the public transportation system, which consists of buses.

Exploring Reykjavik

Hallgrimskirkja

One of the most iconic landmarks in Reykjavik is Hallgrimskirkja, a stunning church that dominates the city's skyline. The church is named after the 17th-century poet and hymn writer Hallgrimur Petursson and is one of the tallest structures in Iceland. You can take an elevator to the top of the church for panoramic views of the city.

Harpa Concert Hall

Another must-visit attraction in Reykjavik is the Harpa Concert Hall, a beautiful glass building that hosts concerts and events throughout the year. The building is located by the harbor and is a great place to catch a sunset.

Reykjavik Art Museum

For art lovers, the Reykjavik Art Museum is a must-visit attraction. The museum is located in three different buildings in the city center and houses an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art by Icelandic and international artists.

The Sun Voyager

The Sun Voyager is a stunning sculpture located by the harbor and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Reykjavik. The sculpture, which resembles a Viking ship, was designed by Icelandic sculptor Jón Gunnar Árnason and is said to symbolize hope, progress, and freedom.

Day Tours from Reykjavik

While Reykjavik has plenty to offer, the surrounding area is equally as stunning and worth exploring. Here are some possible day tours you can take from Reykjavik:

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a popular day tour that takes you to three of Iceland's most famous attractions: the Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gullfoss Waterfall. This tour can be done by car or by booking a guided tour.

The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa located about 40 minutes away from Reykjavik. The spa is known for its warm, milky-blue water and is a great place to relax and unwind. There are several tour companies that offer transfers to and from the Blue Lagoon.

Whale Watching

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching, and there are several tour companies that offer whale watching tours from Reykjavik harbor. During the tour, you can expect to see humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins.

The South Shore Tour

The South Shore Tour is a popular day tour that takes visitors along the south coast of Iceland. The tour typically includes stops at some of Iceland's most stunning natural attractions, such as Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Reynisfjara Beach, Skogafoss Waterfall and Glacier Hike (Some South Shore Tours also include a glacier hike on Sólheimajökull Glacier, where visitors can explore the stunning ice formations and learn about the glacier's history.)

Snaefellsnes

Snaefellsnes is a beautiful peninsula located in western Iceland, about 2 hours from Reykjavik. The area is known for its stunning landscapes, including dramatic cliffs, black sand beaches, and volcanic formations. Some of the top attractions in Snaefellsnes include:

Arnarstapi

Arnarstapi is a small fishing village located on the coast of Snaefellsnes. Visitors can take a walk along the cliffs and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.

Snæfellsjökull National Park

Snæfellsjökull National Park is a stunning nature reserve that's home to glaciers, lava fields, and volcanic craters. Visitors can go on hikes and enjoy the unique scenery.

Kirkjufell Mountain

Kirkjufell Mountain is a famous landmark in Snaefellsnes that's known for its unique shape and stunning views. It's particularly beautiful during the winter months when it's surrounded by snow.

Conclusion

Reykjavik is a charming and vibrant city that's worth exploring. From its iconic landmarks to its cultural attractions, there's plenty to see and do in this cozy city. And if you're looking to explore the beautiful