Reykjavík Vacations

The favourite activity of Icelanders is bathing in geothermal waters, and the inhabitants of Reykjavík are no exception. As the city is powered almost entirely by geothermal and hydroelectric energy, its many swimming pools are filled with naturally warm water and are accessible all year round. For a swim in the great outdoors, travellers can easily visit the Sky Lagoon in Kársnes, about 10 minutes from Reykjavík, or the Blue Lagoon, 45 minutes from Reykjavík and only 20 minutes from Keflavík Airport.

Hallgrímskirkja is a must-see in the Icelandic capital and the ultimate symbol of Reykjavík. This church is the tallest religious building in Iceland and was constructed between 1945 and 1986. In front of the church stands a statue of Leif Eriksson, considered to be the first European settler to visit North America more than 500 years before Christopher Columbus. Another must-see during your visit to Reykjavík is Harpa, a large concert hall with a stunning design. The Perlan Museum, an immersion into the Icelandic landscape and its origins, is another activity not to be missed.

The appeal of Iceland's capital lies in its proximity to nature and its small size, which makes accessing its various attractions easy and enjoyable. Travellers will enjoy strolling along the main shopping streets, particularly in the colourful Laugavegur district, known for its brightly painted houses, which remain lively until late at night. Modern Street art, which is very present in the capital, emerged in the 1990s, influenced by the graffiti movements of New York and Philadelphia, and can be found on every street corner. Don't miss a stroll along the seafront and take the opportunity to photograph the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture (Sólfar in Icelandic), which represents hope, freedom and progress.

While many places in Reykjavík are very popular and attract tourists, it is also possible to enjoy the city in other ways. Why not book a helicopter tour to admire the city from above and fly over Mount Esja? You could watch a lava fusion show at the Lava Show, visit the Imagine Peace Tower on Viðey Island, erected in tribute to John Lennon and his wife Yoko Ono, or walk the spiral path to the top of Þúfa (pronounced ‘th-oo-fha’). Whisky tasting at a distillery and sampling local cuisine at restaurants are also things to add to your list.