According to allcitycodes.com, the Icelandic city of Reykjavik is characterized by great contrasts. Major events such as culture night, concerts and art festivals are regularly organized. Sometimes you imagine yourself in a bustling metropolis and at other times you think you are in a small fishing village by the sea. This city has it all. The beautiful nature certainly plays a strong role. You will find waterfalls, lavender fields, volcanoes and wonderful hot springs. In short, a wonderful city to gain some energy.
Top 10 Things to Do in Reykjavik
#1. Culture House
This museum is praised as one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The building, which opened in 1909, was designed by the Danish architect Johannes Magdahl Nielsen. You will find, among other things, the special collection of Iceland’s medieval manuscripts. Much is told about the history of the country and what role the manuscripts played in it. It is actually the place to get to know the national heritages of the country.
#2. Thermal bathing Laugarsdalslaug and Blue Lagoon
Like many locals, enjoy a dip in one of Iceland’s wonderful thermal baths. It is known that the geothermal water has medicinal properties, which mainly reduce the symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism. It is also good for reducing a number of skin problems. You will find Reykjavik’s baths near the center near the national football stadium. Another special bath can be found at the Blue Lagoon. Here you can swim in natural geothermal seawater with ingredients such as salt, silica and algae. This again guarantees good influences on various disorders. The magisterial surroundings quickly bring you into a state of tranquility.
#3. Hallgrimskirkja Church
This uniquely designed church is the tallest church building in Iceland. It is named after the country’s greatest hymn (praise) writer ‘Hallgrímur Pétursson’. The pipe organ in the church is particularly impressive with its 5275 pipes. Because the church can be seen from afar, it is also called the symbol of the city. The view is phenomenal.
#4. Cathedral Dómkirkjan
Although the cathedral of Reykjavik is less impressive than the Hallgrimskirkja church, it is worth a visit. It was built at the end of the 18th century on the ‘Austuvellir’ square in the center of the city. The beautiful baptismal font was created by the sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen.
#5. Grasagardur Botanical Garden
Unique plant species from Icelandic soil can be found in this relaxing park in the Laugardal district. The hiking trails lead you past beautiful water features, rock gardens and various floral displays. There is also a small zoo in the five-hectare park.
#6. Art
Museum Reykjavik’s Art Museum was established in 1973 to exhibit works by Icelandic and other international artists. The museum is now divided over three locations: Art Museum Kjarvalsstadir, Art Museum Ásmundarsafn and Art Museum Hafnarhús. The Art Museum Ásmundarsafn is housed in the former home of sculptor Asmundur Sveinsson.
#7. National Museum
No fewer than 16,000 historical artifacts tell you about the different living conditions that have been taking place in Iceland for centuries. It goes back to the Viking age and slowly leads to the present. This museum is also involved in the protection of some forty historic buildings around the island. The address of this museum is Sudurgata 41 Reykjavik.
#8. The Pearl
The very remarkable building was erected in 1988 on the Öskjuhlíð hill. Hot water is stored in the tanks to provide the city with heating. There is a viewing platform with cafe. The view is very special. The dome hosts various exhibitions and other events. One of the tanks is not filled with hot water. This is where the Saga Museum is located. It contains wax figures of Vikings. The area around this ‘Pearl’ is ideal for walks.
#9. Nauthólsvík beach
The only beach in Reykjavik where you can swim is Nauthólsvík. Because warm water is pumped into the sea on this beach, this is the only piece of sea that is also attractive for swimming. The beach is not very big, so with warm weather it can be quite crowded. It is right next to the airport.
#10. Boat
trip There are many excursions to take in Reykjavik. There are hiking and cycling tours, you can go fishing, horseback riding, play golf and take special boat trips. A very special example is the boat trip where you can spot whales and dolphins at sea. Or take a kayak trip along the beautiful rugged coastline of the country.