Find Exciting Things to do in Reykjavik Iceland
Known as the world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavik is considered a vibrant and artistic community. There are many things to do in Reykjavik – with art galleries, prestigious museums and natural beauty all around. Explore the city centre full of art and history. Or tour the surrounding region with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Find 9 things to do below for the next time you visit this inspiring city.
1. Watch the water flow at Gullfoss Waterfall
Along the White River in Reykjavik, you can find Gullfoss Waterfall. Many consider Gullfoss to be one of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Where: White River, Reykjavik, Iceland
Find out more: Gullfoss Waterfall
2. Pick up some records at 12 Tonar
Many consider this shop the best record store in Europe. In 2006 the store was awarded the prestigious title of “Shop of the Year” by the City of Reykjavik. Sip an espresso, listen to music, read some magazines and browse the shelves. Leave with some truly inspiring music!
Where: Skolavordustigur 15, Reykjavik 101, Iceland
Website: 12tonar.is
3. Learn about lifestyles of the past in the Open-Air Folk Museum (Arbaejarsafn)
Árbær was a farm into the 20th century and a museum opened there in 1957. Arbaejarsafn is an open air museum including 20 buildings. These buildings form a town square, village and farm. Many of the buildings are from central Reykjavik and have been relocated. The aim of the museum is to give visitors an idea of the way of life in the past in Reykjavik. There are craft days, Christmas exhibitions, vintage car shows and more.
Where: Arbaer, Reykjavik 110, Iceland
Learn more: Árbæjarsafn
4. Get a view of the city on the top of Hallgrimskirkja Church
Get spiritual in this beautiful cathedral that is very close to central Reykjavik. Take your time and enjoy the unique architecture. There is a beautiful organ with 4,500 pipes. Also, there is an elevator that takes you to the top of the church where you can enjoy wonderful vistas of the city.
Where: Skolavorduholti, Reykjavik 121, Iceland
Website: hallgrimskirkja.is
“Bjork: In Reykjavik, Iceland, where I was born, you are in the middle of nature surrounded by mountains and ocean. But you are still in a capital in Europe. So I have never understood why I have to choose between nature or urban.”
5. Enjoy the picturesque setting of Solfar (Sun Voyager) Sculpture
Stop by The Sun Voyager Sculpture for an unforgettable photo opportunity. This beautiful sculpture represents a dreamboat and an ode to the sun. Intrinsically it contains the promise of undiscovered territory, dream of hope, freedom and progress. The setting is magical, located by the sea in the centre of Reykjavik.
Where: Saebraut, Reykjavik reykjavik, Iceland
Find out more: The Sun Voyager
6. Check out exhibits at the National Museum of Iceland
Learn about Iceland’s past at the National Museum of Iceland with artefacts spanning 1000 years. This museum is nicely laid out with lots of interesting information. Exhibits cover history from the first settlements through to the 1970’s. There are free lockers and cameras are permitted without flash. You may opt to have an audio guide as you walk around.
Where: Sudurgata 41, Reykjavik 101, Iceland
Website: thjodminjasafn.is
7. Have a dip in a thermal pool at Lagafellslaug in Mosfellsbaer
Go swimming in the thermal pool in Mosfellsbaer. There is a 25 meter outdoor pool, hot tubs, a steam-bath, sauna, water-slides and indoor pool area for children. The facilities are clean and spacious. The perfect stop for a family to relax. Bring your own towel and enjoy.
Where: Laekjarhlid 1a, Mosfellsbaer, Reykjavik 270, Iceland
More information: Lagafellslaug
8. Stroll through the garden at the Einar Jonsson Museum (Listasafn Einars Jonssonar)
The Einar Jonsson Museum is a contemporary art museum with a gorgeous garden. Many people skip the museum and enjoy the free sculpture garden that features Jonsson’s large sculptures. These amazing sculptures transport you back to a fantasy setting that cannot be missed!
Where: Eiriksgata, Reykjavik, Iceland
More information: www.lej.is
9. Discover archaeological remains at The Settlement Museum
You can find The Settlement Exhibition Reykjavík 871±2 near the centre of Reykjavik. This museum features the oldest relics of human habitation in Reykjavik, excavated in Aðalstræti in 2001. One of the wall fragments dates before 871 AD. Other fascinating artefacts include part of a long-house and wall which are preserved in their original location. This forms the centre of the exhibition about the Viking Age in Reykjavik.
Where: Adalstraeti 16, Reykjavik, Iceland
Website: The Settlement Exhibition
Continue reading more articles about Iceland
—> The Blue Lagoon Spa Review
—> Kerid Crater Volcanic Lake
—> Gullfoss Waterfall
—> Vatnajökull National Park & Glacier Tour
—> 5 Spectacular Places to Visit in Iceland
—> Guide to the Golden Circle Iceland
