The capital of Iceland, Reykjavik, is a modern city with a population of just over 100,000 people. Reykjavik is also the northernmost capital of sovereign state at 64°08' N, just south of the Arctic Circle. This location also means long light summer, while of course in winter the days are shorter.

Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland with a population of 117,706. The greater Reykjavik area has a population of 196,564 and the majority of Iceland's total population (250,000 total).

It is a small town and easy to navigate and walk in. It is built around a harbour and the main city centre is chiefly a few streets. There is a design area to visit and great museums and parks to explore. It is a beautiful city and there are many walking tracks that you can follow, even a circular route around the city and to the beaches. You can also hire bikes at several places around town to explore the city, available at the main bus stop or down at the harbour.

Reykjavik lends itself to wandering and there is a lot to see in the city centre. The old town is very pleasant to explore and you can climb the Pearl tower to enjoy the view. Amongst the internationally known attractions are the new Opera house on the harbour, the Icelandic Museum of Art and the Church of Hallgrímur.

Our top 9 attractions are:

Shopping in Reykjavik

Enjoy browsing through local crafts shops along with Scandinavian designer stores. The Kringlan shopping mall is a hub of social activity in Reykjavik. Laugavegur, the main shopping street, has many funky boutiques, with both Icelandic and international designs. Skólavörðustígur, which runs up to Hallgrimskirkja, has a range of souvenir and craft shops where you can find a perfect gift for the family. The famous lopapeysa (Icelandic jumper) can be bought in many of the tourist shops. Be sure to visit the Outdoor wear shop, 66°NORTH.

Perlan (The Pearl)

Reykjavik's landmark, the Perlan, is a unique piece of architecture - built in 1988. On top of the large tanks in which natural hot water is stored for heating the city, a glass dome has been constructed: under the dome is a rotating restaurant serving evening meals. The dome also contains a cafe, while around the outside is a viewing platform with beautiful panoramic 360-degree views of the city and its surroundings. Access to the viewing platform is free of charge. Photo opportunity not to be missed!

Church of Hallgrímur (Hallgrímskirkja)

Hallgrimskirkja Church can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. It is probably the most controversial building in Iceland. Its steeple rises above all other buildings in Reykjavik and the church can seat over 1000 worshipers at a time. It was named after the Icelandic poet Hallgrimur Petursson, and the grounds also house a statue to the first Viking said to have discovered America, Leifur Eiríksson. The Nave is open to the public daily.

Videy Island

Reykjavik's Videy Island is a unique site that combines history, culture and nature, and is only a few minutes away by boat. Videy was inhabited until the 1940s and it is here that you can find Videyjarstofa, the oldest stone building in Iceland built for the High Sheriff in 1752. There are hiking paths around the island, which is renowned for its varied bird life. At least 30 species of breeding birds have been counted on the island.

New opera house

On the 4th May 2011, there will be a new opera house, Harpa, unveiled in Reykjavik. It is prominently on the water side and will be spectacular to visit when opened. The first day of Harpa’s operation on the 4th May will see a concert by the Symphony Orchestra of Iceland, performing Beethoven’s 9th Symphony under the direction of Vladimir Ashkenazy. The official opening ceremony will not take place for a further nine days, however; and the event will be marked by performances by many of Iceland’s most popular music acts. The building will then be blessed (as is common practice with new public buildings in Iceland) on Reykjavik Culture Night in August.

Waterfront & Sun Voyager

Reykjavik is surrounded by the ocean, and the waterfront paths are perfect for a relaxing stroll, some jogging, cycling or rollerblading. The city's northern waterfront is a popular area, with a view of Reykjavik's landmark mountain, Mt. Esja. The striking sculpture Sun Voyager by Jon Gunnar Arnason stands here. It is a massive steel sculpture in the shape of a Viking ship. Stand by this sculpture during sunrise or sunset, at any time of the year, and enjoy an unforgettable moment.

Watch the Whales

For an exciting sea adventure, try one of the many whale-watching tours that are available from Reykjavik. The ocean around the city is a natural habitat for many types of whales (dolphins and seals are often see, too.) Tours also pass by Puffin Island. The whale watching season runs from late March to late October. Another exciting option is to catch your own fresh fish on a sea-angling cruise, which is now offered by some of the boat operators.

Enjoy the Nightlife of Reykjavik

The city of Reykjavik is known for its colourful and entertaining nightlife. Note that in Iceland, the partying starts rather late (bars/clubs get busy after midnight)! People often begin the evening meeting at someone's house before they head downtown. There are countless bars, nightclubs, pubs, and late-night restaurants in Iceland's capital - you can spend the whole night visiting different places!

The Blue Lagoon

While the Blue Lagoon is not situated within the Reykjavik city area, this attraction is an absolute "must" for travellers and the major attraction for many Reykjavik visitors. The thermal waters are always pleasantly warm, whatever the weather. In the city, Reykjavik’s thermal pools are open from early morning until late in the evening.