Today, globetrotters are looking for unique experiences while exploring the world. One such magical experience is chasing the Northern Lights. The best place to tick this activity from your bucket list is Reykjavik, Iceland. Don’t go by its size, this hidden gem has an array of choices when it comes to unforgettable sights. From the splendor of the Northern Lights to the wonder of the Blue Lagoon, from the black sand beaches to the Golden Circle, this wonderful island punches well above its weight.
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10 Reasons To Visit Reykjavik
- Reykjavik Iceland has a variety of natural attractions that includes the Golden Circle, waterfalls, glaciers, stunning mountains and volcanoes.
- It is the perfect base to see unique natural phenomena like the northern lights and midnight sun.
- The city has a blend of ancient traditions and contemporary creativity with thriving art, music, and cultural scenes.
- The streets of Reykjavikers are filled with colorful architecture and street art that are visually appealing.
- Reykjavikers are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making it easy to mix with the locals and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
- It is one of the world’s safest, cleanest and greenest cities to spend some time amidst nature.
- To relax in the soothing waters of the famous Blue Lagoon which is a geothermal pool.
- Restaurants here serve fresh seafood, lamb, skyr and hot dogs alongside international cuisine.
- There are many pedestrian-friendly areas that house cozy cafes, bookstores, and boutiques which can be explored on foot.
- Reykjavik city hosts various events and festivals (music, light) all year round.
Getting To And Around Reykjavik
The nearest airport to Reykjavík is the Keflavík International Airport (KEF) which is about 45 minutes from downtown. This airport is well connected from major European cities like London, Copenhagen, Greenland and Frankfurt. It also connects to plenty of American airports, from New York JFK to Minneapolis, Boston, and Denver.
When you arrive at the airport you can either take the Flybus that runs regularly to the city center or hire a taxi or rent a car for private transfers. There are many tour operators that arrange transportation for the entire duration of the stay i.e. from pick up from airport to dropping back at the airport. These personalized services may be an expensive option, but they’re the most convenient too.
Click Here To Book a E-Scooter Rental – Explore Reykjavík on your own
Weather In Reykjavik
Picking the right time to visit is very important as different seasons offer different experiences. To help you choose the right time of visit, let us take you through all the seasons.
March-May (Spring Season): best for bird/wildlife watching and to see the Northern Lights. During this season one can expect good weather, fewer tourists and reasonable prices.
June – August (Summer Season): famous for midnight sun (24-hour daylight), sightseeing, festivals and outdoor adventures. Since this is a peak season, the place gets busy and things get very costly.
September – October (Autumn Season): excellent chances of seeing the Northern Lights and dramatic skies. Can expect to experience a mix of snow, sunshine, and clouds, all in one day.
November – February (Winter Season): Generally dark and cold but high chances of seeing the Northern lights. The winter months are less crowded resulting in cheaper flight rates.
Top Things To Do Reykjavik City
No matter the time of year, there are many things to do and places to see in Reykjavik city for all types of travelers. Make the most of your tour by indulging in these activities with our Reykjavík travel guide.
Visit The Stunning Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral
Start off with a visit to Reykjavik’s most iconic landmark with striking modernist architecture. At a height of 244 feet, Hallgrímskirkja is the biggest church of the city. Thanks to its towering height, you’ll get to see some awe-inspiring panoramic views of the city’s layout and its natural surroundings.
Explore The Old Harbour
This vibrant neighborhood which was once a fishing village is today a place buzzing with activities, excursion booths, museums, cozy cafes and stylish restaurants serving fresh local food. Its perfect blend of the old-world charm with modern attractions is what draws tourists to this place.
Get A Taste Of Iceland At Perlan
Perlan is an interactive museum and observation deck located on a hill top under a glass dome. From real ice caves to fake geysers, from viewing the Northern Lights to learning about volcanoes, this museum gives you a complete taste of Iceland under one roof.
Watch An Orchestra At Harpa Concert Hall
This masterpiece of modern architecture can be enjoyed both from the inside and the outside. From the inside you can attend symphonies, cultural performances and concerts. From the outside you can admire the structure with its stunning glass façade, especially when it’s illuminated at night.
Take A Dip In The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon which is a magical geothermal spa is the city’s largest and most popular pool. A dip in the mineral rich and hot waters of the pool is a great way to relax and rejuvenate. Floating in the warm water surrounded by black lava fields and with steam rising around you is a unique experience that cannot be missed.
Drive The Golden Circle
Plan a day trip to the Golden Circle to uncover the stunning landscapes of Iceland. The best way to do so is by hiring a car and driving through scenic routes. Stop by to catch some amazing attractions like the Þingvellir National Park, Iceland’s most iconic Gullfoss Waterfall and the famous Geysir Geothermal Area which has active geysers, hot springs, steam vents, and sulphurous mud pots.
Experience The Vibrant Nightlife Scene
With plenty of cozy pubs, bars, and live music venues to choose from, it is no surprise that Reykjavik has a vibrant nightlife. Many of the cafes and restaurants turn into music venues by night. In places like Kaffibarinn, Húrra, and Dillon, the bars and clubs remain open until the early morning.
Suggested Reads: Essential Iceland Travel Tips To Know Before You Go
Summing It Up
Reykjavik, the land of fire and ice may be small, but the city has so much to offer. From chasing the northern lights to sipping coffee in a cozy café, from soaking in geothermal pools to strolling its colorful streets, each experience is unique and promises memories of a lifetime. If you plan to visit Reykjavik someday, refer to this guide as it has everything to help with all the planning. Do let us know of your adventure in the comments below, we would love to hear them.
FAQs
At all times a packing list for a trip to Reykjavík should consist, layers of clothing, waterproof hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, first aid kit and a reusable water bottle.
Since this city is a place of hot and cold, you can see them both here. Glaciers: Snæfellsjökull and Langjökull; Volcanoes: Hengill, Fagradalsfjall, Eyjafjallajökull, and Grímsvötn.
The most popular hot dogs from Baejarins Beztu Pylsur, a traditional Icelandic yogurt called Skyr, a dish made of shark called as Hákarl, hearty fish stew called Plokkfiskur, smoked lamb and Rye Bread are foods to try while here.
