Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, leads a country made of fire and ice. A city of contrasts, alternative street art leads to historic and iconic churches and government buildings. Use the city as a base to explore breathtaking wonders of nature—Northern Lights, geothermal pools, volcanos, spouting geysers, and more. A majority of Icelanders live in Reykjavik and are deeply attentive to their natural resources and protective of the environment. After a day of discovering the city’s hidden gems, cozy up to its thriving nightlife, centered around the main shopping street. Partygoers can easily wander from one venue filled with music to another in the compact downtown. Music aficionados won’t want to miss Reykjavik’s music festivals—some of the best in Northern Europe.
Where is Reykjavik
64.146582, -21.9426354
What to do in Reykjavik
- Northern Lights: Look upward to see one of the world's most awe-striking light shows as ribbons of color swirl in the sky.
- Volcanoes: Hike up one of Iceland's 130 volcanoes and peer into a swirling lava or a dormant crater of one of these powerful mountains.
- Whales and puffins: Sail through Faxa Bay to see a humpback whale breach and colorful puffins congregate on a small island. Don't forget the camera!
- Viðey Island: Take a ferry to this small island just off Reykjavik's waterfront to navigate its trails, explore historical architecture, and view modern monuments like Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower light installation.
- Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach: Jump into the mild waters (66 degrees in the summer) of a manmade lagoon before dipping into a communal hot tub warmed by a vent.
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