Reykjavik City Guide 2015-2016

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT REYKJAVIK

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE AND MAP

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• TOURS AND ACTIVITIES • THINGS TO DO • EVENTS

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• MUSEUMS & GALLERIES • WINING & DINING • SIGHTS TO SEE

GLACIER WALKS AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

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PER JE ADVENT EP OUTDOOR ES GLACIER WALKS URES ADVENTSUR DAY TOU RS FROM & HIKING SÓLHEIMAJÖKULL & SKAFTAFELL

GLACIER WALKREYKJAVÍK DAY TOURS FROM DAY TOURS

REYKJAVÍ K

icelandr

overs@i celandro 1 vers.is · 9999 Tel: +354 +354 587 mountainguides@mountainguides.is s.is · Tel: · Tel: +354 587 9999 587 9999 untainguide 1 mountainguides@mo

2015

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ice lan dro .is 2015 ver mountainguides.is ides 2015 s.i s mountaingu

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Ministry for the Environment and Natural Resources

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2006 For designing and developing Glacier Walks.

En vi r

ICELANDAIR PIONEER AWARD

MOUNTAINGUIDES.IS info@mountainguides.is · Tel: +354 587 9999

ALL YEAR

Take a Walk on the Ice Side

Walk through Ice and Fire

Price: 21.900 ISK.

Price: 29.900 ISK.

Daily departures all year at 8.30

Departures, summer: Daily at 8.30 Winter: Mon, Thu, Sat and Sun at 8.30

Pick up: 08:30 from hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik.

Glacier walk and south shore waterfalls combo tour.

Pick up: 08:30 from hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik.

Hot spring hike, glacier walk and south shore waterfalls combo tour.

GREAT VALUE SUMME

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Hot Springs and Lava Cave Price: 23.900 ISK.

Golden Circle & Traditional Tastes | Price: 33.500 ISK.

Departures, summer: Mon, Wed, Fri and Sun at 11.30

Departures all year: Mon, Wed, Sat and Sun at 11.30

Pick up: 11:30 from hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik.

Pick up: 11:30 from hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik.

Hot spring hike and lava cave adventure.

Traditional tastes at local farms and restaurants, Fontana Spa and Magical Nights.

MAKE SURE IT’S MOUNTAIN GUIDES

SpĂśr ehf.

*Prices valid from June 1st to December 31st 2015

SCAN TO BOOK NOW

Make it’s El sure ding!

Call us on +354 519 5000 or visit www.elding.is elding@elding.is

SEA ANGLING

PUFFIN WATCHING

EXPRESS WHALE & PUFFIN

VIÐEY ISLAND

WHALE WATCHING from Reykjavík

Take part in an adventure at sea with an unforgettable trip into the world of whales and sea birds all year round.

ENNEMM / SÍA / NM69176

EL-01 / EL-02 / EL-03

13:00

Apr 9:00

May 9:00

Jun Jul 9:00 9:00 10:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 14:00 17:00* 17:00 17:00 20:30** 20:30

Aug Sept Oct Nov-Dec 9:00 9:00 9:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 17:00*

* From 15 May to 15 September ** From 15 June to 31 August Environmental Award Icelandic Tourist Board

www.elding.is

– 1 May to 31 August at 11:00 and 15:30

Elding Puffin Watching EL-05

Elding Whale Watching schedule – all year round Jan-Mar

Elding Sea Angling EL-04

– 15 May to 15 August at 9:30, 12:00 and 15:00

Express Whale and Puffin tour (RIB-boat) EL-06

– 15 May to 30 September at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00

NEW

THE WOndERs Of

VOlCanOEs

Volcano House features two documentaries chronicling two of Iceland´s most famous volcanic eruptions of the last 40 years.

Vestmannaeyjar 1973, Eyjafjallajökull 2010

showtimes English: 10:00-21:00 every hour on the hour German: 18:00 from June 15th to september 15th Vestmannaeyjar 1973 The eruption in Vestmannaeyjar began without warning on the night of January 23rd, 1973. 400 homes perished under ash and lava and nearly 5.000 people had to flee to the mainland in matter of hours.

Eyjafjallajökull 2010 The most famous volcano eruption in recent times; the eruption that caused much disruption in air travel over large parts of Europe. This powerful documentary made specially for Volcano House was filmed and directed by the Emmy-nominated Icelandic film maker, Jóhann Sigfússon.

Volcano Cinema and Geological Exhibition Open every day!

Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavik (Center of Reykjavík, close to Old Harbour) (354) 555 1900 I volcanohouse.is

VOLCANO HOUSE You may touch!

INFORMATION POINTS INFORMATION POINTS 11 22 33 44 55 66 77 88 99 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 13 14 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 19 20 20 21 21 22 22 23 23 24 24 25 25 26 26 27 27 28 28 29 29 30 30

Saga Saga Museum Museum Tourist Information & Booking ITM Tourist Information & Booking Trip TripTourist Tourist Information Information && Booking Booking MyReykjavik Tourist Information ITA Tourist Information Iceland Information What’s on On track TouristTourist Information and Booking City City Hall Hall Parliament Parliament Building Building Dóm Church Reykjavik Cathedral Flea Flea market market Catholic Catholic Church Church Government Government House House National National and and University University Library Library University University of of Iceland Iceland Vesturbær Vesturbær Outdoor OutdoorThermal Thermal Pool Pool Air Air Iceland Iceland Domestic DomesticAir AirTerminal Terminal BSÍ BSÍ Coach CoachTerminal Terminal Flybus Flybus to to Inter.

Inter.Airport Airport Hallgrímskirkja Hallgrímskirkja National National Hospital Hospital Reykjavík Reykjavík Indoor IndoorThermal Thermal Pool Pool Höfði Höfði House House Laugardalur Laugardalur Outdoor OutdoorThermal Thermal Pool Pool Hostel Hostel and and Camping Camping site site Laugardalur Laugardalur Sports Sports Hall Hall Laugardalur Laugardalur Sports Sports stadium stadium Skating Skating Hall Hall Botanical Botanical Garden Garden Reykjavík Reykjavík Zoo Zoo and and Family Family Park Park Geysir Geysir simulator, simulator,Perlan Perlan Nauthólsvík NauthólsvíkThermal Thermal Beach Beach National National Hospital Hospital at at Fossvogur Fossvogur Emergency EmergencyWard Ward

31 Broadcasting House House 31 Broadcasting 32 CityTheatre Theatre 32 City Kringlan Shopping Shopping Center Center 33 33 Kringlan The Handknitting HandknittingAs. As.Store Store 34 34 The Whales Old of Harbour 35 35 Life Elding Reykjavík ReykjavíkWhalewatching Whalewatching 36 36 Elding SpecialTours ToursWhale Whale && Puffin PuffinWatching Watching 37 37 Special 38 Volcano House House 38 Volcano 39 Breiðholt Outdoor OutdoorThermal Thermal Pool Pool 39 Breiðholt 40 Árbær Outdoor OutdoorThermal Thermal Pool Pool 40 Árbær Information Center 41 City Library 41 Tourist National NationalArt Art Gallery Gallery The The Culture Culture House House The The Nordic Nordic House House Reykjavík ReykjavíkArt Art Museum, Museum,Hafnarhús Hafnarhús Reykjavík Reykjavík Museum Museum of of Photography, Photography, City Library National Museum of Iceland National MuseumInstitute of Iceland Árni Magnússon Árni Magnússon Institute Telecommunication Museum Telecommunication Museum ASÍ Art Gallery ASÍ ArtJónsson Gallery Museum Einar Einar Jónsson Museum Kjarvalsstaðir Reykjavík Art Museum, Reykjavík Art Museum, Reykjavík Art Museum,Kjarvalsstaðir Ásmundarsafn Reykjavík Art Museum, Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum Ásmundur Sveinsson Museum Reykjavík 871+/-2 Sigurjón Museum ReykjavíkÓlafsson Maritime Museum Reykjavík 871+/-2 Árbæjarsafn - Reykjavík Museum Reykjavík GerðubergMaritime Cultural Museum Center

Árbæjarsafn - Reykjavík Museum Reykjavík Electricity Museum Gerðuberg Perlan ViewCultural Point Center Reykjavík Electricity Museum Perlan View Point 11

A A Viking Viking museum museum which which gives gives aa compelling compelling view view into into Icelandic history Icelandic history 00 m m

500 500 m m

GRANDAGARÐUR GRANDAGARÐUR 2, 2, 101 101 REYKJAVÍK REYKJAVÍK TEL.: TEL.: 511 511 1517 1517 WWW.SAGAMUSEUM.IS WWW.SAGAMUSEUM.IS

LIST OF CONTENT WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

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MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

32-45

SHOPPING IN REYKJAVIK

46-53

WINING & DINING

54-73

DAY TOURS, ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES 74-91 THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND REYKJAVIK 92-119 EVENT CALENDAR

120-127

GOOD TO KNOW

128-129

NEIGHBORING TOWNS

130-137

Authors have taken all reasonable care in preparing this handbook, information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but make no guarantee about the accuracy or completeness of its content. © MD Reykjavik ehf.

Printed and distributed in 100,000 copies.

EDITOR: Hjörtur Atli Guðmunds. Geirdal, hjortur@whatson.is LAYOUT & DESIGN: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, sbs@sbs.is PHOTOGRAPHS BY: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, Ari Magg, Lýður Guðmundsson, Vilhelm Gunnarsson, Ragnar Th. Sigurðsson, the Creative Commons community at Flickr & many more.

Content by the What’s On team and Visit Reykjavik, written by Lisa Shannen.

MAPS: © E. Backman PRINTING: Oddi, Ecolabelled Printing Company.

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Material and contents property of publisher. All rights reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyright may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means – without the written permission of the authors and the publisher.

PUBLISHED BY: MD Reykjavik ehf.

N

MD REYKJAVIK EHF. Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3600 reykjavik@reykjavikcityguide.is www.reykjavikcityguide.is

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PRINTED MATTER

A FEW EXAMPLES Air Iceland is your West Nordic airline, offering scheduled domestic flights and flights from Iceland to the Faroe Islands and Greenland. A variety of day tour packages in Iceland and to Greenland, including flight, bus transfer and guidance.

8 hour Day Tour / Hiking tour

Day tour

REMARKABLE GREENLAND

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NORTH

Greenland – Kulusuk

Mývatn / Húsavík

Day Tour

Day Tour

FISHERMAN CULTURE DAY IN THE WESTFJORDS

LAKE MÝVATN

Ísafjörður

Mývatn

CONTACT AIR ICELAND OR TRAVEL AGENTS FOR RESERVATION For more Day Tours, look at our website AIRCELAND.IS websales@airiceland.is tel. +354 570 3030

ÍSLENSKA/SIA.IS/FLU 73536 03/15

ACTION-PACKED TOURS ICELAND AND GREENLAND

WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

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Reykjavík may be one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, but it still packs a powerful cultural punch, where visitors can enjoy a multitude of various events and festivals all year round!

With a fascinating history rooted in the great Sagas and its unique location within a land of diverse landscapes – all filled to the brim with super-nature, Reykjavik manages to combine a terrific blend of hip and wholesome, but without the stress that usually follows a cosmopolitan metropolis. In fact Icelanders are considered to be so easy-going and gregarious, that they’ve just added a new travel accolade to their growing collection for being the friendliest nation in the world!

Whether illuminated by the unending daylight of summertime or the spectacular Aurora Borealis during the winter, Reykjavik has become a popular alternative travel destination for all seasons, offering a myriad of adventures and a paradise of possibilities for all who visit!

From the Vikings of old, to the architects and innovators of contemporary culture, many different groups have influenced the shaping of the capital area into the vibrant city it is today – a city which is said to buzz with creative energy and passion.

This feel-good-factor people tend to experience while visiting could have something to do with the pristine air or water pure drinking water, or perhaps the proximity of all those extraordinary

While Reykjavik maintains its smalltown feel, it’s still a modern European capital with all the governmental institutions you’d expect to find in a metropolitan city, with the added bonus of having a unique spa and pool culture. Here you’ll discover a thriving culinary scene with many outstanding restaurants, and a diverse cultural life, with a variety of interesting museums, theatres, galleries, sports facilities and some first class universities. So however long you stay, we hope you’ll discover the energy of Reykjavík and share your adventures with your family and friends!

ReykjavikCityGuide.is Check out our website where you can find all the information in this magazine and more!

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

natural wonders, such as volcanoes and glaciers. Whatever is it, one thing’s for sure, once you’ve been introduced, it’s hard to let go or say goodbye.

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There we’ll keep everything up to date, so if things change between publications, you can always access the newest information about life in Reykjavik! www.reykjavikcityguide.is

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

HISTORY OF REYKJAVIK According to the Book of Icelanders, the settlement of Iceland began in the year 871 with the arrival of Ingólfur Arnarson in what is now the capital, Reykjavík. When he arrived, he happened upon columns of steam rising up from a hot spring, and therefore named it “Smokey Bay”, or Reykjavík.

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This early period is well documented in the Book of Settlements; however, if you’d like to find out more about why and how the Vikings came to Reykjavík, then a visit to the National Museum and the Settlement Exhibition will tell you all you need to know.

re-instituted in 1844 with Reykjavík as its seat. Then when Iceland became independent from the Danes a century later, in 1944, Reykjavík became the country’s capital. From then onwards the city began booming into the modern capital you see today.

It wasn’t until the 18th century that a small town began to grow around Ingólfur’s homestead. Local hero, “Sheriff” Skúli Magnússon, opened wool mills in an effort to modernize the Icelandic economy and in a way, it was on the backs of sheep that Reykjavík was able to reach modern urban development.

Fortunately the past isn’t lost. Reykjavík offers some great museums that bring you face to face with its colourful past, from recreating Viking heritage to uncovering the lives of everyday Icelanders in years gone by. But of course the best way to discover the city’s history is to combine your trip to the museum with a walk around Reykjavik’s historical sights on your own.

Reykjavík became the seat of Icelandic legislation when the historic Icelandic Parliament, suspended in 1799 AD, was

After years of study, strings of awards and having led kitchens of some of Reykjavík’s most esteemed restaurants, Gústav still sees him self as just a kid from up north, with a lifetime passion for fish.

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Í SLEN SKI BARINN

INGÓL F SSTRÆTI 1A

101 REYKJAVÍK

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 14 - 101 REYKJAVÍK - TEL: +354 571 1100 www.islenskibarinn.is postur@islenskibarinn.is sími: 517 6767

Fish • Lamb • Whale • Icelandic cuisine with a twist Icelandic music and nightlife Mix with the locals . .and all the Icelandic beers in one awsome place!

INGÓLFSSTRÆTI 1A

1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K

www.islenskibarinn.is postur@islenskibarinn.is sími: 517 6767

REYKJAVIK FOR THE SEASONS Summer With almost 24 hours of daylight during the summer, Reykjavík truly becomes the city that never sleeps – with popular summertime activities including whale-watching, sea-fishing, horseback-riding and trips to the many natural wonders nearby.

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Perhaps one of the more remarkable summer destinations within Reykjavik city is the geothermal beach found at Nauthólsvík, where you can spend the afternoon enjoying a picnic or swimming in a heated ocean lagoon.

Sea-swimmers will also be pleased to learn that they can enjoy the cooler waters of the Atlantic, and then warmup afterwards in the sauna or one of the two giant hot-tubs onsite.

One of the more unusual facts about Reykjavík is its abundance of exceptional coffee houses, all staffed with talented baristas. On a hot sunny day the thriving coffee-culture often spills out onto the streets – particularly around the Austurvöllur Square area, where coffee-loving crowds can be found sat outside sipping on a frappelatte while soaking-up the sun.

Autumn Reykjavík’s calendar of events kicks into high gear during the fall with many important international conferences and big cultural festivals taking place.

Starting dramatically at the end of September is the Reykjavík International Film Festival, which highlights independent filmmaking and showcases the work of up-andcoming filmmakers.

Fans of peace, love and John Lennon won’t want to miss Yoko Ono’s annual Imagine Peace Tower ceremony in October, where she invites residents and visitors to join her for the illumination of a super-beam of light on Viðey Island in celebration of both John Lennon’s vision of peace and his birthday.

In late October/early November you can experience the country’s crowning music event – Iceland Airwaves, which regularly draws top performers, countless festivalgoers and media attention from around the globe.

There’s never a dull day in Reykjavík during the wintertime, even if the days are dark! Apart from the occasional fall of luminous snow and regular displays of Northern Lights, there’s also a full calendar of cultural events with festivities galore, concerts, plays and many seasonal exhibitions.

Winter-sports enthusiasts will find many of exciting winter tours available from Reykjavík including monster jeep tours, horseback riding, dog sledding and snowmobiling on a glacier etc.

Christmas season is always celebrated in great splendor where the city’s buildings, trees and streets are decorated with countless fairy lights, ornaments and Christmas displays. If you’re in town during the festivities, check out our special advent calendar!es with colour and light in one of the most impressive firework shows you’ll ever see.

In February you can enjoy the tasty Food & Fun festival, followed closely by the Winter Lights Festival, which always delivers a packed program full of special events for the whole family.

Spring In-between the sunshine, showers and dustings of snow, the first blooms peek out at the Botanical Gardens in early April, and the new generation of farm animals arrives at the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo. As the ice-melts on Reykjavík’s Tjörnin pond you’ll also notice the nation getting back to their outdoor routine, donning their jogging shoes, climbing back on their bikes and firing-up their grills for outdoor BBQs. There’s also plenty on the festival calendar, including Design-March, the Children’s Culture Festival, the Reykjavík Horse Festival, and the prestigious Reykjavík Arts Festival.

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

Winter

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For more info about the events mentioned, check out our Festival page on pages 22-23 and our Event Calendar on pages 120-127!

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

FAMILY FRIENDLY REYKJAVIK Families will find plenty of interesting activities in Reykjavík. Whether it’s splashing around in a thermal pool, trying on Viking armour or viewing some of the largest mammals on Earth at close range, there’s fun to be had for all ages in the city.

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Visiting families will be relieved to discover that Reykjavík is particularly family friendly, with a safe and clean city, that’s simple to navigate on foot with easy access to nature. Locals business are very accommodating of families with young children; even in the hippest of coffee shops and restaurants you’ll find a high-chairs and play-areas set aside for the kids. Reykjavík has much to offer visitors at affordable prices – sometimes even for free! Below are our top ten recommendations for active families and curious kids to enjoy while visiting Reykjavík.

Top ten family activities »» Splash & play at one of 18 thermal pools in the Reykjavík Capital Area. »» Makes friends with the resident ducks, geese and swans at Tjörnin Lake. »» Experience Viking times at one of the capital area’s many museums. »» Talk to the animals at the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo. »» Try delicious Icelandic food - hot dogs, soft ice cream, skyr and liquorice. »» Climb to the very top of majestic Mount Esja. »» Go horse riding through pastoral valleys and rocky lava fields. »» See whales and puffins on a boat trip from the old harbour.

TOP FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS:

»» Watch bubbling hot springs and roaring waterfalls on a day trip from Reykjavík.

Children’s Culture Festival (April), First Day of Summer (April), Festival of the Sea (June), Independence Day (June 17), and Reykjavík Culture Night (August). Night (August).

»» Revel in a Reykjavík winter - be dazzled by the multi-coloured Christmas lights, visit the Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village, skate on Tjörnin Lake or start a snowball fight.

Visit our store in downtown Reykjavík on Skólavörðustígur 4 or at our store in Kringlan mall.

You can also find us online at www.igloindi.com | #igloindi

DIVERSE REYKJAVIK Wining & Dining

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While Iceland might be famous for its more traditional delicacies such as pickled ram’s testicles and putrefied shark, visitors will be pleased to learn that Reykjavík is also fast becoming one of the best locations to sample quality new Nordic cuisine, all cooked up by our treasured local and international talent using those fresh and sumptuous ingredients Iceland is so famous for!

Food aficionados will also be pleased and perhaps even impressed by the number of diverse restaurants in Reykjavík - mostly staffed with award winning chefs that create both imaginative and delicious cuisine.

We recommend visitors try out in particular the Icelandic cuisine, which is characterized by an imaginative use of local ingredients such as fresh seafood, organic lamb and wild game; but be sure to try the fabulous Icelandic hotdog and pizza too!

Apart from the great food available in Reykjavík, the city also boasts a remarkable café culture, where trained baristas serving quality coffee are the rule rather than the exception.

For an even greater surprise we encourage our guests to give their taste buds a treat by sampling some the various award winning local beers available. There’s even a school of beer run by the city’s oldest brewery for those who like a little history to go with their beer tasting!

Shopping & Design For the best shopping experience in Reykjavík we recommend you hit the downtown area of the city which is where most of the shops and boutiques are concentrated. Whether you’re looking to get a gift or souvenir, something unique from one of our many talented designers or even a midnight snack, the city centre is well supplied with brand names, obscure fashion shops, quality art studios and convenience stores.

A wander around the city’s famous shopping streets of Laugarvegur and Skólavördustígur will lead you to some gorgeous little boutiques and charming shops where you’re sure to discover fashion treasures ranging from the ultramodern and concept -driven to vintage classics from the golden era! If you prefer the mall experience and those global brands, you can take a trip to Kringlan –

home to around 150 shops, restaurants and services under one roof.

Shopping hours in Reykjavik can vary however most places are open between the hours of 10am and 6pm during the week with shorter opening hours at the weekend. Remember to reclaim your 15% VAT (value added tax) refund from your purchases.

Arts & Culture

In recent years, Reykjavík has become well known for its prolific music and performing arts scene – the city is a breeding ground for musical talent and hosts several highly active theatre companies.

only an important part of our culture but also a wonderful tonic for the body and mind.

Adding to the city’s reputation for creativity are a number of wellestablished musicians such as legendary local lass Björk, the indefinable Sigur Rós and the ever-so-cute Emilíana Torrini.

You could blame it on those long winter nights or perhaps the endless summer days, maybe it has something to do with the exceptional quality of the locally produced beer and Icelandic schnapps; but whatever the reason behind Reykjavík’s legendary nightlife or “jammith” as the locals refer to it, it’s certainly gaining a reputation for being one of the hottest places to party in the world today!

Health & Wellness Reykjavík city is powered by clean energy and characterised by its proximity to nature which extends in and around the city like a green scarf, weaving together a lush oasis of natural open spaces and recreational areas.

Apart from all those invigorating outdoor activities, where you can indulge in anything from sea-swimming in Nauthólsvík thermal beach to horsebackriding in the red hills of Heidmörk, visitors are also thoroughly encouraged to experience Iceland’s greatest source of well-being by trying out one of our numerous thermal pools and spas - not

If you’ve spent the day absorbing all that green energy in the great outdoors and you need to spend it somewhere, then it’s time to trade those waterproofs and walking boots for your glad-rags and party shoes and see if you have enough stamina to stay up as long as a local!

We’ve got pubs, clubs and lots of live venues to suit a multitude of different party moods! On weekdays most bars are open until 1am, with extended party hours from Thursday evening through the weekend, when the bars can stay open until 3am or longer. Most bars and clubs do not charge an entrance fee; however, expect to pay a small charge for entrance to live music venues. If you look younger than the minimum drinking age which is TWENTY, then make sure you bring your ID out with you.

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www.reykjavikcityguide.is

Concentrated mainly in these areas are some of the city’s best facilities and services promoting “health & well-being” where you can try-out a multitude of healthy outdoor activities and experience the feel-good energy that comes with all that fresh clean air!

Nightlife

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

Reykjavík is the place to be for those with an interest in the world of arts and culture, and is home to the majority of our most prestigious cultural institutions and talented performers and artists.

Designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, Reykjavík is also the core of Iceland’s literary heritage where you’ll discover a treasure of literary works and a wealth of talented poets and authors.

It’s all happening in Reykjavík City - the world’s most northerly capital!

Reykjavík City is a hotbed of activity all year round with a remarkable number of annual festivals and seasonal events attracting countless festivalgoers and media attention from around the world. Apart from the city’s superb official events, such as the Winter Lights Festival and Culture Night, there’s also a diversity of critically acclaimed film festivals, design events, fabulous fan-fests and music festivals, celebrating everything from the arrival of summer, to the city’s wealth of fascinating culture.

Be it art, music, theatre or sport, there’s always a hip, wholesome and totally awesome event happening in town!

REYKJAVIK WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL Some years ago, people realized that Iceland can be quite dreary during the darkest months, and that February is one of those months. As a result of that revelation, the Winter Lights Festival was created, specifically to combat the darkness. Over the years it has evolved into an incredibly fun, bright and sparkling festival with something for everyone. Celebrated in February each year, it always promises an array of great events, such as the Museum Night and Pool Night.

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FOOD & FUN Mixes outstanding culinary skills, fresh natural ingredients, Icelandic outdoor adventure and the world-famous Reykjavik nightlife to create the ultimate recipe for fun. The core element of the festival involves world-acclaimed chefs collaborating with Reykjavik’s finest restaurants. Each chef is assigned to a restaurants, where they prepare a special menu crafted from Icelandic ingredients only, commonly held to be the best in the world by Icelanders. The menus are presented at all the restaurants for an entire week.

DESIGN MARCH Showcases the best creations straight from the Icelandic design scene, with fresh, exciting, exotic and under the radar treasures. The scene is small and intimate, which means you’ll get the chance to meet all the stars of local design. From fashion to furniture, architecture to food design, the festival presents the best of the local design scene alongside exciting international names. For four days Reykjavík is transformed into a mega venue hosting hundreds of openings, events, exhibitions and parties.

REYKJAVÍK CHILDREN’S CULTURE FESTIVAL Children’s culture, culture for children and culture with children, these are the three main aspects of the festival: a week long arts and culture festival dedicated to children and youth. Launched in 2010 and is already a huge success. Dedicated exclusively to children and young people in Reykjavík up to the age of 16, this annual festival strives to introduce the youth to a wide range of art disciplines through the medium of workshops and performances.

REYKJAVIK ARTS FESTIVAL

GAY PRIDE This colourful event brings tens of thousands of people into the city centre every year to show solidarity and have fun with the gay community in Reykjavik. People of all genders, friends, relatives, and a fast growing number of tourists, all come together to celebrate and support universal human rights. Our cosy little pride, originally visited by some fifteen hundred onlookers, has blossomed and evolved into a colourful six day celebration that attracts up to 100 thousand guests from all over the world.

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

Has a focus on new commissions and the creative intersection of the arts. It brings together major cultural venues and unconventional spaces throughout the city in exhibitions and performances of contemporary and classical works, presented to the widest possible audience. The Festival is one of Northern Europe’s oldest and promotes Icelandic and international culture in all fields of art, bringing together the best in local and international theatre, dance, music, and visual art.

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REYKJAVIK CULTURE NIGHT Takes place all across Reykjavík with celebrations in city streets and squares, in museums, businesses and even in residential gardens! The event’s slogan “come on in!” is a reference to those good old fashioned customs of hospitality. A permanent fixture in the annual calendar of events in Reykjavík and marks the start of the city’s cultural year, when museums and theatres and other cultural institutions launch their annual programme of events.

ICELAND AIRWAVES

For more events, chec out our Event Calendar on pages 120-127!

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

A critically acclaimed international music festival showcasing the hottest new international bands and the best up-and-coming Icelandic artists. It started out as a one-off gig in an airplane hangar back in 1999, with only 5 bands, but now it has established itself as one of the hippest events on the international music festival calendar, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world, who come in search of some fresh audio dynamite and an adventure at edge of the Arctic Circle.

HIGHLIGHTS OF REYKJAVÍK THE SUN VOYAGER A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to the Reykjavík center. The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and an ode to the sun. It serves as reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland. An ideal opportunity to see Sólfarið at its best is when the sun is setting, at whatever time that may be.

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REYKJAVÍK CITY HALL With an impressive, modern design, the building sits right on the northern shore of Lake Tjörnin. It’s not only offices for the mayor and city’s excutive officials, but is also open to visitors, providing internet access, an information desk, exhibition halls and a cafe. The restaurant boasts huge glass windows so you can sit back and admire the water, bird life, nature and city surrounds. The three dimensional map of Iceland is always a favourite with visitors to the country.

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA One of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. The tower of the church is among the city’s highest buildings and offers a fantastic view of the city. It’s named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Petursson, author of the Passion Hymns. The architect who designed it, Guðjón Samúelsson is said to have designed it to resemble the basalt columns of Iceland’s landscape.

PERLAN Standing at 25 metres high, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings and although it was opened to the public in 1991 it still makes a stand out piece of architecture for its modern construction.

Up on the fourth level there is a 360 degree viewing platform where you can get the best panoramic views of Reykjavík and when the sun sets it’s a spectacular spot for the northern lights. You can also dine at the Perlan restaurant that slowly rotates so you get to see the whole city without even having to turn your head.

TJÖRNIN - THE POND

HARPA Harpa stands at the edge of the Reykjavik Harbour with Iceland‘s biggest concert hall suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events. Harpa also occasionally hosts promotions, plays, and public events. It‘s open to everyone, always, and you should definitely visit Harpa, whether it‘s for a show, to buy souvenirs, a concert or a lovely dinner in one of the fabulous restaurants. Designed by a Danish firm in cooperation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist.

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

People go to the pond to feed the birds and enjoy one of the most amazing views that Reykjavík has to offer. There isn’t a better place in the city to enjoy a beautiful sunset and you can watch or feed a huge variety of birdlife that calls the lake home while you’re at it. When the lake freezes over in winter, hot geothermal waters are pumped in to defrost an area for the birds while those who can handle the cold keep warm from the romantic atmosphere and take to the ice on skates.

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THE OLD HARBOUR The descriptive name comes from the fact that it‘s the first lasting harbor in Reykjavik. The most visited area is the eastern pier where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals and guided tours in Reykjavík and whale watching companies. The area is filled with excellent restaurants and coffee houses. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty and there’s plenty of interesting activities to check out.

More info on page 106

Apart from its ancient ruins and rich historical background, other attractions include impressive works of ar. With an extensive network of trails and a population of resident horses, the island can be explored both on foot and by horseback. No matter what path you take, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mainland, and to the west, you’ll be able to see the impressive outline of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

VIÐEY ISLAND

HÖFÐI HOUSE

More info on page 108

Höfði House, built in 1909, is considered to be one of the most beautiful and historically significant buildings in the Reykjavík area. It’s best known as the location for the 1986 summit meeting of presidents Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbatsjov, a historical event that effectively marked the end of the Cold War. During this meeting images of the house were broadcast all over the world. The sculpture in front of the house depicts pillars from the chieftain’s seat of the first Norwegian settler in Reykjavík.

NAUTHÓLSVÍK A little bit of paradise is to be found in the form of a golden-sanded geothermal beach at Nauthólsvík in Reykjavík. It was opened in 2001 to the delight of residents and tourists alike and now attracts an estimated 530.000 guests each year. The creation of the geothermal beach was an ambitious, but very successful, project involving the construction of a lagoon with large sea walls, where cold sea and hot geothermal water fuse together resulting in higher temperatures.

More info on page 104

LAUGARDALUR 26

More info on page 110

In Laugardalur you will find a youth hostel, a campsite, and the largest outdoor thermal pool in Reykjavík, Laugardalslaug. It is very hard to describe the experience of tiptoeing over frozen ground to the pool in your swimsuit and then immersing yourself in the wonderful water that nature has heated to just the right temperature. Laugardalur also boasts a beautiful botanical garden featuring an impressive selection of Arctic flowers and plants.

IMAGINE PEACE TOWER A work of art conceived as a beacon to world peace

by Yoko Ono. The work is designed in the form of a wishing well from which a powerful tower of light beams. The light tower is composed of a number of individual lights that join together to form a single beam. The strength, intensity and brilliance of the light tower continually changes as particles in the air fluctuate with the changing weather and atmospheric conditions unique to Iceland.

More info on page 106

LAUGARDALSLAUG

More info on page 117

Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure.

Iceland’s big thing is swimming pools. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, located in Laugardalur Valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, outdoor children’s pool and paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, steam bath, gym and mini golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day, or a cold one for that matter.

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24 48 72

Choose a card that suits your stay: 24, 48 or 72 hours

Welcome to Reykjavík!

The Reykjavík City Card is the easiest and most inexpensive way to experience our favourite city!

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Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, is a friendly city that offers a surprising amount of things to see and do. Whether you are seeking the bustling energy of a cosmopolitan city, the thundering thermal energy in the ground beneath your feet, or the serene energy of the surrounding landscape, Reykjavík promises a memorable visit for everyone!

Reykjavík’s energy also drives the city’s cultural scene. From the avantgarde to the historical, Reykjavík’s galleries, museums and theatres

support a vibrant and sophisticated artistic culture; moreover, annual festivals, special exhibitions and stage productions mean that the cultural calendar is always full, with plenty for visitors to enjoy.

The Reykjavík City Card offers free entry to a great selection of museums and galleries, all swimming pools in Reykjavík and free unlimited travel by bus within the Reykjavik Capital Area.

In addition, the card also gives you a free ferry trip to Viðey island and discounts on various tours, in shops and on services.

Get to know our favourite city the easy way and save money!

CHILDREN’S CITY CARD Admission to the museums is free for those under 18 years of age; however, there are fees for children (from the age of 6) on city bus services and on the ferry to Viðey Island (from 7). Note that there are also entrance fees for children (6 and over) at the thermal pools, and from 5 years and over at the Animal Zoo and Family Park.

In order to accommodate families, we now offer a special children’s City Card, at a significantly reduced fee. Cards are valid for same duration: 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours.

Tourist Information Centre Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 590 1550 info@visitreykjavik.is www.visitreykjavik.is www.facebook.com/visitreykjavik Instagram – visitreykjavik Twitter - @visitreykjavik

Watchmaker Frank Michelsen, founder of Michelsen Watchmakers, at his desk in Sauðárkrókur, N-Iceland, in 1920.

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FREE ADMISSION TO:

48 72

Reykjavik City Buses

Museums

Free unlimited travel by bus within the Reykjavik Capital Area. For schedule, visit www.bus.is or download the Strætó mobile app.

For opening hours and addresses, please refer to our museum chapter on pages 32-45.

Reykjavík City Thermal Pools For more information about the pools, visit www.itr.is or check out our coverage on page 117. »» »» »» »» »» »» »»

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Choose a card that suits your stay: 24, 48 or 72 hours

Laugardalslaug Vesturbæjarlaug Árbæjarlaug Grafarvogslaug Sundhöllin Breiðholtslaug Klébergslaug

»» Ferry to Videy Island »» The Reykjavik Art Museums: – Hafnarhus – Kjarvalsstadir – Asmundarsafn »» National Museum of Iceland »» National Gallery of Iceland »» The Culture House »» Reykjavík City Museums: – The Settlement Exhibition – Árbær Open Air museum – Maritime Museum – Museum of Photography »» Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park

BUY THE CARD HERE: Tourist Information Centre Aðalstræti 2, Reykjavík

Guesthouse Borgartun Borgartún 24, Reykjavík

What‘s On Booking and Information Centre Laugavegur 4, Reykjavík

Sterna Tour Desk Harpa, by the Waterfront

Icelandic Travel Market Bankastræti 2, Reykjavík

Grand Hotel Sigtún 38, Reykjavík

Loft Hostel Bankastræti 7, Reykjavík

Around Iceland Laugavegur 18b, Reykjavík

Trip.is Laugavegur 54, Reykjavík

Season Tours Vættuborgum 112, Reykjavík

Volcano House Tryggvagata 11, Reykjavík

Hotel Cabin booking desk Borgartún 32, Reykjavík

Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina Mýrargata 2, Reykjavík

Geysirland Car rental and tour operator Harpa, by the waterfront

Downtown Hostel Vesturgata 17, Reykjavík

BB44 Guesthouse Nýbýlavegur 16, Kópavogur

Reykjavík City Hostel Sundlaugavegur 34, Reykjavík

Kvosin Supermarket Aðalstræti 8, Reykjavík

Reykjavík Campsite in Laugardalur Sundlaugavegur 32, Reykjavík

Kvosin Downtown Hotel Kirkjutorg 4, Reykjavík

Hilton Reykjavik Nordica Suðurlandsbraut 2, Reykjavík

Reykjavík Lights Hotel Suðurlandsbraut 12, Reykjavík

Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura Nauthólsvegur 52, Reykjavík

Fosshotel Baron Barónsstígur 2-4, Reykjavík

Hafnarfjörður Tourist Information Centre Strandgata 6, Hafnarfjörður

Fosshotel Lind Rauðarárstígur 18, Reykjavík

Hótel Hafnarfjörður Reykjavíkurvegur 72, Hafnarfjörður

Whales of Iceland Fiskislóð 23-25, Reykjavík

Reykjavík Art Museum, National Museum of Iceland, National Gallery of Iceland & Reykjavík Maritime Museum

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MUSEUMS & GALLERIES For such a small city, Reykjavík abounds with museums. You can discover a quirky, young artist at the Living Art Museum, get a feel for Iceland’s outlandish national costumes at the National Museum, and finish up the day with a lesson on how to properly milk an Icelandic cow at Árbæjarsafn.

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Designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, Reykjavik is the core of Iceland’s literary heritage and home to a treasure of literary works, both medieval and contemporary. It also boasts a wealth of talented poets and authors.

You’ll discover an array of museums and galleries open year-round, which vary from displays of national historic treasures and texts to small eclectic galleries exhibiting contemporary work by local artists. Reykjavík is also characterized by an unusually vibrant artistic community and has a number of prestigious museums and art galleries of which the Reykjavík Art Museum is the largest. It’s made up of three distinctive museum spaces: Hafnarhús (harbour house) located

in an old warehouse down by the harbour, where the focus is on local and international contemporary art.

Kjarvalsstadir, named after one of Iceland’s most beloved artists Jóhannes S. Kjarval (1885 1972), always has works from its namesake’s collection on display. The Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum is in Laugardalur – his works are on display both inside and outside the building, which the artist designed and constructed largely by himself and was his former home. In recent years, Reykjavik has become well known for its prolific music and performing arts scene – the city is a breeding ground for musical talent and hosts several highly active theatre companies. A striking new addition to the Icelandic and European cultural scene is Harpa, the Reykjavík Concert Hall and Conference Centre and recipient of the prestigious Mies Van der Rohe award for architecture. Harpa unites the most important classical music and performance venues in the country with an international conference centre. It offers a diverse range of performances from classical to contemporary, showcasing both local and international performers. Harpa is also home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and The Icelandic Opera.

Kjallarinn simply means „The Cellar“ a fitting name since Kjallarinn is literally underground.

The stylish yet warm surrounding is the home of some exciting innovations in both cooking as well as cocktails, which are the inventions of master chef Eyjólfur Gestur in collaboration with the bartenders. The menu is broken up by method of cooking, on one hand the coal oven and on the other a French Planche. On the menu you can find various fish, meat and fowl and of course some interesting cocktails, should you be so inclined. Enjoy!

Aðalstræti 2 101 Reykjavík Tel: 517 7373 www.kjallarinn.is kjallarinn@kjallarinn.is

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM A Family Friendly Museum If it weren’t for the traffic sounds from a nearby highway, standing in the middle of Árbær Open Air Museum is like going back in time. The museum has collected household items, costumes and even entire houses to reconstruct this open air, living museum.

The grounds are roughly divided into a town square, a village and farm, with staff in period costumes milling around and talking to the guests. There are also special demonstrations that highlight certain activities like various crafts, farming methods or even how to properly milk a cow.

The Árbær Open Air Museum collects and conserves objects from Reykjavík cultural history and carries out research on them, and promulgates knowledge of the history and living conditions of the people of Reykjavík from the settlement Age to the present day.

Guided tours at 13:00 all year round.

Kistuhylur 4, 110 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is citymuseum@reykjavik.is Open: Jun—Aug | Daily 10-17

Sep—May | Guided tours only.

Adults (18+): 1400 ISK Bus no. 5 & 16

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NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND The National Gallery of Iceland, established in 1884, is the principal art museum of Iceland.

Its art collection consists mainly of works of 19th and 20th century art.

In its possession are many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries.

The National Gallery’s main role is to collect, preserve, research and exhibit Icelandic art and offer education about it. A considerable emphasis is also laid on showing Icelandic art in context with international art. The museum sees it as one of its priorities to educate visitors about exhibitions and single art works, by means of texts, guidance, meetings with artists and a databank which is accessible through computers in the National Gallery’s education centre.

Special guided tours and guidance in foreign languages by agreement.

Fríkirkjuvegur 7, 101 Reykjavík +354 515 9600 www.listasafn.is Open: Jun—Aug | Tue-Sun 10-17

Sep—May | Tue-Sun 11-17 Adults (18+) - 1000 ISK Bus no. 14

Reykjavik

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Icelandic Ísbúi cheese, croûtons 1.890.kr

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steamed mussels from Breiðafjörður 1.900.kr

FISH OF THE DAY

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION A Family Friendly Museum At The Settlement Exhibition in Aðalstræti visitors can experience the settlement of Iceland in late 9th century through two remarkable exhibitions.

The Settlement Exhibition revolves around an excavated site, the actual remains of a Viking Age longhouse that have been preserved in situ. The exhibition gives an invaluable insight into the life and times of the first people to inhabit the Reykjavík area and the ways in which they adapted to their new environment. The exhibition is founded on archaeological and other scientific research and introduces visitors to the latest facts and interpretations forwarded by a range of experts who have concentrated on this period of our history.

Guided tours at 11:00 on Mon, Wed and Fri from Mid-Jun to Aug.

The exhibition is suitable for all ages and includes an activity center for children. Audio guides are available in many languages.

Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is citymuseum@reykjavik.is Open: Daily 9-10 Adults (18+): 1400 ISK Bus no. 1, 3, 6 & 13

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THE SETTLEMENT SAGAS A Family Friendly Museum Settlement Sagas comprises some of the nation’s most renowned documents, many of them written in the twelfth century but relating events that go back as far as 874 AD, when the first settlers are said to have come to Iceland. These Icelandic manuscripts are recognised by UNESCO as having outstanding cultural value.

These two exhibitions hosted by the Reykjavík City Museum afford an unprecedented view into the origins of Icelandic culture. One is based on archaeological findings from the days of the Settlement and the other on manuscripts documenting the same period. This is also the first time Iceland’s literary heritage and archaeological history have been placed side by side for the general public. In addition, the preservation of these precious manuscripts is one of the reasons why UNESCO officially designated Reykjavík as a City of Literature in 2011.

Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is citymuseum@reykjavik.is Open: Daily 9-10 Adults (18+): 1000 ISK Combined ticket for both the Settlement Exhibition and Sagas: 2200 ISK. Bus no. 1, 3, 6 & 13

Visit us and experience our multimedia exhibition It's only a ten-minute walk from the city center GrandagarĂ°ur 2 - 101 ReykjavĂ­k Open every day from 09:00 - 21:00 www.aurorareykjavik.is

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY A Family Friendly Museum Reykjavík Museum of Photography is the only museum of photography in Iceland.

The aim of the museum is to shape a unique vision and to be leading in its field. The museum preserves various photo collections from professional and amateur photographers, around 5 million photographs from the period around 1870 to 2002. The collection´s themes are diverse. One can find family photographs, photos from portrait studios, industrial- and advertising photographs, press photography, landscape photographs and more.

EXHIBITIONS The museum’s exhibitions focus on Icelandic photography, works from Collection and works of foreign photographers. The museum exhibits both historical and contemporary photography in artistic- social- and cultural context.

Tryggvagata 15, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is citymuseum@reykjavik.is Open: Mon-Tue 12-19

Fri 12-18

Weekends 13-17 Offices and Museum Shop Open:

Mon-Fri 10-16 Free admission.

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REYKJAVIK MARITIME MUSEUM A Family Friendly Museum The museum is situated in Reykjavik’s picturesque active fishing harbour, only a 10-minute walk from the city centre.

Enjoy the fantastic view of the boats, fishermen and birdlife before entering the museum.

For centuries Icelanders depended heavily on fishing and the sea for survival, and as a result the country has a long and rich maritime history. In the Reykjavik Maritime Museum you can explore this history, including beautiful ship-models, realistic scenery as well as both dried and live fish!

The magnificent Coast Guard Vessel Óðinn, who took part in all three cod wars, is a part of the museum, docked outside in the beautiful harbour.

A wonderful place for a fun day out with family or friends!

Guided tours of the ship: 11 (June 8th-August 24th), 13, 14 and 15.

Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is citymuseum@reykjavik.is Open: Daily 10-17 Adults (18+): Museum: 1400 ISK Óðinn: 1200 ISK Combined Ticket: 2000 ISK Bus no. 14

GLJÚFRASTEINN – THE LAXNESS MUSEUM Halldór Laxness was one of Iceland’s most respected authors and was prolific in his writing, producing 62 books over 68 years. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955.

Gljúfrasteinn was the home and workplace of Halldór Laxness and his family for more than half a century.

In 2004 it was opened to the public as a museum, unchanged from when Laxness lived there.

Gljúfrasteinn is only in about 25 minutes distance from Reykjavík city center and is on the way to Þingvellir National Park.

Audio tours of the house are available in Icelandic, English, German, Swedish and Danish and a folder in French.

Gljúfrasteinn, 270 Mosfellsbær +354 586 8066 www.gljufrasteinn.is Open: Jun—Aug | Daily 9-17

Sep—May | Tue-Sun 10-17

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

In the reception building you can watch a multimedia presentation dedicated to Laxness’s life and work. Tickets for admission, books and souvenirs are also sold there. In the beautiful countryside around Gljúfrasteinn, visitors can take walks as part of their visit, to see where Laxness spent his childhood and later in life sought his inspiration.

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Visit Iceland’s largest art museum artmuseum.is

Reykjavík Art Museum

HafnarHús

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Ásmundarsafn

TryggvagaTa 17

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Open daily / One admission to three museums

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND The National Museum of Iceland is the oldest museum in the country and celebrated its 150th birthday in 2013.

At the museum you can explore the permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History in Iceland, which is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the Settlement to the present day.

The exhibition is conceived as a journey through time: it begins with the ship, in which medieval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home; it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world. The museum caters to all ages and you can find games, play dress up and explore the museum via interactive touch screens and audio-guides which complement the exhibitions.

Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík +354 530-2200 www.nationalmuseum.is Open: May—Mid-Sep | Daily 10-17

Mid-Sep—May | Tue-Sun 11-17 Wheelchair Accessible.

Guided tours in English are offered at 11 o‘clock, Wed, Sat and Sun from May to Mid-Sep.

Adults (18+): 1500 ISK Buses no. 1, 3, 6, 11, 12 & 14

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ART HOUSE CINEMA & CAFÉ

ICELANDIC FILMS WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES EVERY DAY AT 6, 8 & 10 PM

HAPPY HOUR 5-8 PM CULT MOVIE POSTERS BY LOCAL ARTISTS ShowtimeS: bioparadis.is | Hverfisgata 54 | Reykjavík | midasala@bioparadis.is

Great collection, good prices

The viking:info Laugavegur 1 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 1 - 3 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 104 · Akureyri e:info@theviking.is

Akureyri Reykjavík

www.theviking.is TAX FREE

THE CINEMA HOME OF ICELANDIC VOLCANO, NATURE AND CULTURE FILMS The cozy Cinema in the Loft. Ideal for families In The Cinema, upstairs at Old Harbour Village No2, downtown Reykjavík, one can experience nature´s ferocious and devastating powers through the films BIRTH OF AN ISLAND – THE MAKING OF ICELAND, THE ERUPTION! and HEKLA from 1947-2000. Also the beautiful Northern Lights – or Aurora Borealis.

The Cinema is in an old, restored fisherman´s workplace, where the smell of salted fish still lingers, but very cozy and comfortable. Also come and relax, while looking at books on Icelandic nature and geology, or our small but nice rock collection. Ideal for families and the films The Eruption and Hekla have just images and music – so language is no problem.

During the summer about 8 different films can be shown.

The films are made by Valdimar Leifsson, one of Iceland´s best known nature and documentaries film maker, and The Cinema is run by him and his family.

Geirsgata 7b, by the Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 898 6628 www.thecinema.is Films shown daily according to schedule​- or by arrangement.

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VOLCANO HOUSE A Cinema and a Geological Exhibition in the Centre of Reykjavik, located close to the Old Harbour. They present two unique documentaries on two of the most powerful eruptions in Iceland over the last 40 years.

The first is about the eruption on the Westman Islands, beginning after midnight on the 23rd of January 1973.

That night, nearly 5,000 people who lived on the island had to flee in boats to get to the mainland.

The other film shows Iceland as one of the youngest volcanic islands on Earth and documents the eruption in Eyafjallajökull 2010. This massive eruption caused numerous air flights to cancel all over world and millions of people were stranded. The films have a gripping Emmy-nominated footage and riveting images, allowing you to experience those momentous eruptions from the comfort of our in-house cinema.

The Geological Exhibition gives an overview of Iceland’s geological history

and volcanic system.

A large collection of semi-precious rocks and minerals are on a display and ash and lava, you may touch.

Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík Center of Reykjavik, by the Old Harbour +354 555 1900 | www.volcanohouse.is Total Showtime of the films is 53 min.

English: 10-21 (every hour on the hour) German: 18 (from Jun 15th to Sep 15th)

AURORA REYKJAVÍK Take a walk through history and learn how people and cultures around the world saw the Northern Lights via legends and myths connected to this amazing phenomenon. There are interactive displays as well as a specially equipped ‘photo booth’ where you can learn how to adjust your camera’s settings should you want to try your hand at capturing the auroras yourself.

Their knowledgeable and friendly staff are on hand to answer any questions

you may have about the lights and about Northern Lights photography.

The gift shop stocks a unique selection of high quality handmade items by young Icelandic designers, photographers and artists.

Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 780 4500 www.aurorareykjavik.is Open: Daily 9-21 Adults (18+): 1600 ISK

experience classical cuisine

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www.reykjavikcityguide.is

Amtmannsstíg - 101 Reykjavík - 561 3303 - www.torfan.is

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

The high point of your visit to the center will certainly be their theatre where a continuously running HD film is playing throughout the day.

Projected onto a 7 metre wide screen, you can sit back and enjoy this 13 minute film that features some of the most magnificent auroral displays seen over Iceland. The film is accompanied by soft music in surround-sound, making this a therapeutic and restful experience. You’ll feel like you have just come back from a blissful holiday!

OTHER MUSEUMS & GALLERIES musems ASÍ ART MUSEUM

Freyjugata 41, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 5353 | listasafnasi.is Open: Tue-Sun 13-17

EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM

Eiríksgata, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3797 | lej.is Open: Jun—Mid-Sep | Tue-Sun 13-17

Mid-Sep—May | Sat-Sun 13-17

Closed Jan and Feb

GERÐUBERG CULTURE CENTRE

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Gerðuberg 3-5, 111 Reykjavík +354 575 7700 | gerduberg.is

HAFNARBORG CENTRE OF CULTURE AND FINE ART Strandgata 35, 220 Hafnarfjorður +354 585 5790 | hafnarborg.is Open: Fri-Mon, Wed 12-17, Thu-12-21

HANNESARHOLT CULTURAL HOUSE Grundarstíg 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1904 | hannesarholt.is

HOFSSTAÐIR HISTORIC PARK VIKING LONGHOUSE Kirkjulundur, 210 Garðabær +354 525 8500 | gardabaer.is

KÓPAVOGUR ART MUSEUM GERÐARSAFN

Hamraborg 4, 200 Kópavogur +354 570 0440 | gerdarsafn.is Open: Tue-Sun 11-17

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART

Garðartorgi 1, 210 Garðabær +354 512 1525 | honnunarsafn.is Open: Tue-Sun 12-17

MUSEUM OF HAFNARFJÖRÐUR

Vesturgata 8, 220 Hafnarfjorður +354 585 5780 | visithafnarfjordur.is

NATIONAL ARCHIVES

Laugavegur 162, 105 Reykjavík +354 590 3300 | archives.is

NATIONAL FILM ARCHIVE OF ICELAND Strandgata 6, 220 Hafnarfjorður +354 565 5993 | kvikmyndasafn.is

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Hambraborg 6a, 200 Kópavogur +354 570 0430 | natkop.is Open: Mon-Thu 10-19, Fri 11-17, Sat 13-17

NORDIC HOUSE

Sturlugata 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 7030 | nordice.is Open: Tue-Sun 12-17

NUMISMATIC MUSEUM

Einholt 4, 105 Reykjavík +354 569 9600 | cb.is Open: Mon-Fri 13.30-15.30

THE LIVING ART MUSEUM Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 4350 | nylo.is Open: Tue-Sat 12-17

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN

Sigtún, 105 Reykjavík +354 553 2155 | artmuseum.is Open: May—Sep | Daily 10-17

Oct—Apr | Daily 13-17

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS

Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík +354 590 1200 | artmuseum.is Open: Fri-Wed 10-17, Thu 10-20

Flókagata, 105 Reykjavík +354 517 1290 | artmuseum.is Open: Daily 10-17

SAGA MUSEUM

Grandagarði 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1517 | sagamuseum.is Open: Apr—Sep | Daily 10-18

Oct—Mar | Daily 12-17

THE CULTURE HOUSE

Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavik 545-1400 | safnahusid.is Open: Daily 11-17

THE ICELANDIC PHALLOLOGICAL MUSEUM Laugavegur 116, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 6663 | phallus.is Open: Daily 11-18

GALLERY FOLD

Rauðarárstígur 14-16, 105 Reykjavík +354 551 0400 | myndlist.is

GALLERY KLING & BANG

Hverfisgata 42, 101 Reykjavík +354 696 2209 | this.is/klingogbang

GALLERY KOGGA CERAMIC-STUDIO Vesturgata 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 6036 | kogga.is

GALLERY KOLBRUN S. KJARVAL CERAMIC STUDIO

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM KJARVALSSTAÐIR

Skólavörðustígur 22, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1197

GALLERY LANA MATUSA ART CERAMCI STUDIO

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Skólavörðustígur 41, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 5799 | svetlanamatusa.com

GALLERÍ LIST

Skipholt 50a, 105 Reykjavík +354 581 4020 | gallerilist.is

galleries 101 ART GALLERY

Hverfisgata 18b, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 6999 | 101hotel.is

7 FACTORY GALLERY

Bergstaðastræti 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 8193 | 7factory-design.com

CRAFTS AND DESIGN

Aðalstræti 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 7595 | handverkoghonnun.is Dalvegur 16C, 201 Kópavogur +354 896 6234 | facebook.com/Gallery16c

GALLERY I8

Tryggvagata 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3666 | i8.is

GALLERY ÁGÚST

Baldursgata 12, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 2100 | galleriagust.is

Skolavordustigur 5, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 1161 | ofeigur.is

GALLERY SHANKO SILKI

Skólavörðustígur 22c, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 0661 | shankosilk.com

GALLERY SMIÐAR OG SKART

Skólavörðustígur 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 4090

GALLERY STUDIO UMBRA

Lindargata 14, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 8889 | studioumbra.com

GALLERY TEXTILL

Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3584 | textil.is

GALLERY TUKT

Pósthússtræti 3-5, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 5500 | hitthusid.is

SPARK DESIGN SPACE

Klapparstíg 33, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 2656 | sparkdesignspace.com

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

GALLERY 16C

GALLERY ÓFEIGUR

SHOPPING IN REYKJAVIK 46

For a relatively small city, Reykjavik is a shopper’s paradise! There’s literally something for everyone – charming little side-street boutiques, exclusive, luxurious art galleries, beautiful local and international design and any kind of food you could possibly imagine.

Classic items to pick up in Iceland include the Icelandic outdoor wear brands, such as Cintamani and 66°N, and of course the Icelandic wooly sweater which is both stylish and extremely warm. The trick is knowing where to go for each thing; the shopping area around Laugavegur and Skólavörðurstígur in the city center is better for more one-of-akind, non-chain stores and a greater collection of art stores and unique design. The shopping centers on the other hand,the major ones of which

are Kringlan, the original Icelandic Shopping Mall, and Smáralind, which is the largest and most recent, are the place to go for a greater selection of name-brand franchises, to conveniently get to a lot of different shops, to spend a day with kids or teenagers (they both have supervised children’s play areas) or if the weather is too bad for outdoor shopping.

Tax Free Shopping: Please make a note that as a traveller in Iceland, you are not obligated to pay the VAT tax on purchases over 4000 isk, so make sure to save your receipt!

You can claim your tax refund at the airport on your way home, at the information desks in both shopping malls, and possibly at a few locations in downtown Reykjavik. The airport is always the safe bet though!

REYKJAVIK BY DESIGN

48

Life on this frozen, rugged island in the middle of the ocean has not been easy—it demands a certain level of patience, an iron stomach, and most of all, a deep well of creativity and a knack for finding the humor in a tough situation. Icelandic design reflects these virtues in both its originality and sense of humor.

In such a small place there are fine lines between Iceland’s communities centering on crafts,

fine arts and design. And although it is still very much finding its feet, Icelandic design is beginning to develop a personality distinct from its Scandinavian brethren. The design you’ll find in city draws its inspiration from the essence of this place—materials that echo Icelandic nature like moss, lava and ice, and even the unique way Icelanders experience the world, from 24-hour daylight, black sand beaches and a treeless landscape, to the passage of time so far north on the globe.

DESIGN MARCH DesignMarch is Iceland’s most important annual design festival covering all fields of design including architecture, graphic design, fashion, furniture and product design.

Over four days, Reykjavik Sizzles with creative energy with around one hundred exhibitions, workshops and other events spread across the town from the fishing harbor to the main street and the lava fields surrounding the city, turning the most Northern capital in the world into one big venue for design. designmarch.is

FIND MORE EVENTS IN THE EVENT CALENDAR ON PAGES 120-127!

PROBABLY THE

WORLD’S SMALLEST WATCH MANUFACTURER

Our Master Watchmaker never loses his concentration With his legendary concentration and 45 years of experience our Master Watchmaker and renowned craftsman, Gilbert O. Gudjonsson, inspects every single timepiece before it leaves our workshop.

All the watches are designed and assembled by hand in Iceland. Only highest quality movements and materials are used to produce the watches and every single detail has been given the time needed for perfection.

We’re always happy to assist and we provide a friendly and reliable service where our customers speak directly to the designers and manufacturers of the brand.

Gilbert Watchmaker, Laugvegur 62, 101 Reykjavik, tel + (354) 551 4100, www.jswatch.com

SHEAR GENIUS The sheep in this country far outnumber the people, which is good because Icelanders have a penchant for their ovine friends. Although the lamb chops are delish and the ewe’s milk cheese is divine, it’s these wooly coats that are the prize of Iceland’s flock.

The wool of the Icelandic sheep has been used to clothe Icelanders for centuries. And for good reason: it’s great stuff. Warm, waterproof, breathable and nearly indestructible.

You’ll see the locals walking around in their lopapeysas, which is the traditional ring-neck sweater.

50

The unique composition of the Icelandic wool consists of two types of fibers: inner fibers are insulating – fine,

soft, retain warmth well. Outer fibers are water-repellent – long, glossy, keep water out of the garment.

All Icelanders have one of these heavyhitters in their cold-weather arsenal— most likely knit by their granny. But for those of us who don’t have an Icelandic granny, you’re in luck: There are grannies for hire all around the country, knitting like mad to keep the tourists warm.

FASHIONABLE FISH While fur still holds its own in chilly Reykjavík, if you plan to ride the everchanging tides of fashion, you’ll need to reach for your salmon coat, your perch boots, your wolffish belt and your cod handbag.

Icelandic designers have begun exploring uncharted waters by ushering a new material into their designs: fish leather. The material has won popularity because of how it can be sustainably produced. In Iceland the leather is made from fish caught and processed for food.

own distinctive look: salmon creates a delicate, elegant texture, perch is much rougher with course scales, wolffish yields a smooth leather with its characteristic black spots, and cod, the pride of Iceland’s bounty, gives a variable texture with both rough and smooth areas.

Iceland’s own Atlantic Leather has used their background in traditional tanning and leather to work fish leather into a durable, usable product. However, the skins themselves retain their

You can check out Iceland’s fish leather designs at shops like Kraum, Huld Store, Kirsuberjatréð, Atson Leathers and Eggert the Furrier.

Visit our stores: Austurhraun 3, Bankastrรฆti 7, Kringlan & Smรกralind mall | WWW.CINTAMANI.IS

SHOPPING AREAS

52

DOWNTOWN

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR

This is the beating heart of Reykjavík where you’ll find the greatest density of independent cafés, restaurants and shops—from handmade sushi to the latest in Icelandic music. Although most shops are lined up on Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur, if you wander out into the residential areas you’ll find some smaller shops and bistros. Here you’ll also find bus stations, taxi stands and tourist info centers.

Branching off Laugavegur and leading up to Hallgrímskirkja church is Skólavörðustígur, which is a bit quieter than Laugavegur as it has no bars.

Instead you’ll find cozy coffeehouses, delicatessens, health food stores as well as galleries and shops with an emphasis on crafts like woolens and ceramics. This is a great street for poking around and doing a puzzle over a cup of coffee.

LAUGAVEGUR

KRINGLAN MALL

The main shopping street Laugavegur stretches between Hilton Hotel and the city center, although most the shops thin out towards the eastern end. You’ll find streetwear, high fashion, local music and art, quirky souvenirs, cool Icelandic design and all kinds of food and bars along the strip as well as a veritable catwalk of trendy passersby. People-watching here is a must: morning, noon and night.

East of downtown, Kringlan houses 150 shops and restaurants, a multiscreen cinema, food court and a supervised play area for children ages 3-9. Anchoring the mall are Hagkaup grocery and department stores, Next fashion store, Bonus supermarket and Útilíf recreation and outdoor store. Bus nr. S1, S2, S3, S4 or S6 from Hlemmur or Lækjartorg.

SMÁRALIND MALL Located in the suburb of Kópavogur immediately south of Reykjavík is Iceland’s largest mall, including 80 international and local chains, large fashion outlets, supermarkets, Debenhams and Hagkaup department stores, a multi-screen cinema, cafés and restaurants and a supervised play area for children from 2 years old. Bus nr. S2 from Hlemmur.

WINING & DINING IN REYKJAVIK Reykjavík’s restaurant scene is emerging with a unique palate all of its own, embracing the fresh ingredients Iceland offers at home. Icelandic chefs are keen to bring different cultures and cuisines to the local table. You’ll find every world culture’s kind of food in Reykjavík, from Asian to S-American to US-style diner food. And no end to ways to sample the local flavour.

54

A great many of outstanding kitchens can be found in Reykjavík with an eye to using Iceland’s own bounty of seafood, lamb, wild game, organic, greenhouse vegetables and top-notch dairy products. Iceland is still near to nature, so ingredients tend to be incredibly fresh and tasty.

Although fine dining bounds among Icelandic restaurants, many places offer the more traditional Icelandic “soul food”—fish balls, smoked lamb, plokkfiskur and rúgbrauð, mushy peas, red cabbage, salt cod steaks— the kind of hearty dishes you’d find

the nation’s grandmothers cooking that definitely made a comeback in the last couple of years.

In addition to “home-style” food, there is a great number of worldclass restaurants combining traditional Icelandic food with nouvelle cuisine techniques, offering flavours and textures unique to Iceland presented in surprising and innovative ways, so as to delight the eyes, nose and curiosity, in addition to the palate.

On the other hand, a number of kitchens are taking those Icelandic specialities and applying them to completely different cuisines. You can find Icelandic cuisine in tapasstyle mini courses, or even IcelandicLatin-American-sushi. You’ll find cutting-edge vegetarian food and greasy burger joints, elite restaurants and some excellent street food. You’ll find classy wine bars and homey pubs, artisan bakeries and greasy spoon cafeterias. You’ll find some great coffee and fantastic local craft beers. So get out, look around, and see what you find. There’s something for absolutely everyone.

Barónsstíg 11 - 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 9555 argentina.is

Gourmet Experience - Steaks and Style at Argentina Steakhouse

THE TASTE OF ICELAND 56

If you’re coming to Iceland, you will be blown away by the vibrant and unique food culture. Between the world-class restaurants with pristine ingredients and master chefs, the quaint little local flavours and the unique and unusual traditional cuisine, there is no shortage of flavourful experiences for both the adventurous explorer and the demanding connoisseur.

MODERN ICELANDIC CUISINE Modern day Iceland offers every kind of food you can imagine, and many that you probably can’t. With worldclass chefs working with pristine ingredients, Icelandic Restaurants are sure to be a thrill. Most restaurants will offer some traditional Icelandic dishes, such as smoked lamb, or some twist on tradition, such as a reindeer burger. Reykjavik offers any kind of international food you can imagine, sushi, thai, mexican, you name it. It offers steak houses and seafood

restaurants. You can go from very high end to fast food in one block. Because icelandic farms are relatively traditional and the icelandic nature is very pure and unspoiled, the ingredients of the food will be absolute first rate. We particularly recommend you try the lamb, which is in a league of its own.

THE ICELANDIC HOT DOG – AN UNUSUAL INSTITUTION You don’t get more authentically Icelandic than the hot dog. Whereas some of the more traditional food are only really eaten during the Þorri festival, Icelanders actually eat hot dogs all the time. It’s unique in that it contains lamb in addition to the international pork and beef, and it is supposed to be eaten “með öllu” (with everything): raw chopped onions, roasted onions, ketchup, mustard and remoulade. If you order one “with everything” up north, it will also include “cocktail sauce,” a mixture of ketchup and mayo.

Continued on 58

ROCK N’ ROLL

R I B S

+354 527 5000 g ril l h u sid .is

Tr y ggv a ga t a 20 101 Rey k ja v ík

Salted Cod With almond and chive butter, fig and potatoes

A ð al s træti 2 +3 5 4 517 4300 geysirbistro.is

ICE (CREAM) LAND Icelanders, somewhat appropriately, love ice cream. They love it at any time, in fact, you can sometimes see a line at the ice cream parlour in a snowstorm. There is a long-standing debate in Reykjavík of which is better, Ísbúð Vesturbæjar or the one in Skeifan. Unless of course you’re from the north, and the obvious winner is Brynjuís. Because, well, obviously.

TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC FOOD Finally, don’t miss out on the traditional Icelandic food! These dishes, prepared the same way they have for centuries, are steeped in

history and... other things. There are some flavours everyone can enjoy such as the smoked lamb, flat bread, and liverwurst and some more unusual delicacies such as blood pudding and dried fish. At the far end of the spectrum you find curiosities of acquired taste such as fermented shark, singed sheep’s head and pickled ram’s testicles. These are otherwise known as “things you only eat so you can tell your friends at home you did it”. With a shot of Brennivin, an Icelandic Schnapps lovingly nicknamed “Black Death”, you can wash down your meal, along with washing away any memory you might have had of the whole affair.

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Experience real Icelandic cuisine

Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 4430 info@laekjarbrekka.is www.laekjarbrekka.is

Let’s be friends!

/laekjarbrekka

vurl.is/i

Every day from 18:00

‌ or take a look at our menu with a variety of Icelandic delicacies

Restaurants 73 RESTAURANT Laugavegur 73, Reykjavik +354 555 7373 | 73.is 101 RESTAURANT AND BAR Hverfisgata 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 580 0101 | 101hotel.is 1919 RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Pósthússtræti 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 599 1050 | radissonblu.com/ 1919hotel-reykjavik/ AALTO BISTRO The Nordic House Sturlugata 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 0200 | aalto.is AMERICAN STYLE Tryggvagata 26, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 2700 | americanstyle.is ARGENTÍNA STEAKHOUSE Barónsstígur 11a, Reykjavik +354 551-9555 | argentina.is ASÍA Laugavegur 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 6210 | asia.is AUSTUR-INDÍAFJELAGIÐ Hverfisgata 56, Reykjavik +354 552 1630 | austurindia.is AUSTURLANDAHRAÐLESTIN Lækjargata 8, Reykjavik 578-3838 | hradlestin.is

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BAMBUS RESTAURANT Borgartún 16, 105 Reykjavík +354 517 0123 | bambusrestaurant.is BAN THAI Laugavegur 130, 105 Reykjavík +354 552 2444 BERGSSON MATHÚS Templarasund 3, 101 Reykjavík +354 571 1822 | bergsson.is BORÐSTOFAN Hannesarholt, Grundarstígur 10, Reykjav. +354 511-1904 | bordstofan.is BORG RESTAURANT Pósthússtræti 9-11, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 2020 | borgrestaurant.is BUNK BAR & RESTAURANT Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 3700 | bunk.is BRASSERIE ASKUR Suðurlandsbraut 4, 108 Reykjavík +354 553 9700 | askur.is CARUSO Austurstræti 22, 101 Reykjavík 562-7335 | caruso.is CASA GRANDE Ægisgarður 2, by the old Harbour, Reykjavik 512-8181 | casagrande.is DELI Bankastræti 14, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 6000 | deli.is DILL RESTAURANT

Hverfisgata 12, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 1522 | dillrestaurant.is DURUM Laugavegur 42, Reykjavik +354 445 7000 | durum.is EINAR BEN RESTAURANT Veltusund 1, Ingólfstorg, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 5090 | einarben.is ELDSMIÐJAN Bragagata 38a, Laugavegur 81 and Suðurlandsbraut 12m 101 Reykjavík +354 562 3838 | eldsmidjan.is FISH COMPANY Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavik +354 552-5300 | fiskfelagid.is FISH MARKET Aðalstræti 12, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 8877 | fishmarket.is FJALAKÖTTURINN Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 514 6000 | fjalakotturinn.is FJÖRUKRÁIN - VIKING VILLAGE Strandgata 55, 220 Hafnarfjordur +354 565 1213 | fjorukrain.is FORRETTABARINN Nýlendugata 14, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 1800 | forrettabarinn.is FRIÐRIK V Laugavegur 60, 101 Reykjavík +354 461 5775 | fridrikv.is GAMLA SMIÐJAN Laekjargata 8, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 8555 | gamlasmidjan.is GAMLA VÍNHÚSIÐ Klapparstígur 38, 101 Reykjavík +354 565 1130 | gamlavinhusid.is GANDHI Pósthússtræti 17, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1691 | gandhi.is GARÐURINN Klapparstígur 37, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 2345 GEYSIR BISTRO AND BAR Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 4300 | geysirbistrobar.is

EAT LIKE A VIKING or have a burger The bus terminal café/bistro is called Fljótt & Gott.

Fljótt & Gott serves affordable local food, as close to Icelandic home cooking as it gets, which has been the BSI food service trademark for almost 50 years.

Open from 6:00am to 11:00pm every day, also serving burgers, steak, fish and chips, sandwiches and other conventional grill dishes along with wine, beer or sodas.

SHEEPSHEAD ONLY 1.990 kr. saladbar and soda included

Fljótt og Gott BSÍ / Vatnsmýravegi 10 / Tel: 552-1288 / www.fljottoggott.is

GLÓ Engjateigur 19, Reykjavik +354 553 1111 | glo.is

HRESSINGARSKÁLINN Austurstraeti 20, 101 Reykjavik +354 561 2240 | hresso.is

GRAND RESTAURANT Sigtún 38, 105 Rekjavík +354 514 8080 | grand.is

HÖFNIN Geirsgata 7c, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 2300 | hofnin.is

GRILL MARKET Lækjargata 21, 101 Reykjavík +354 571 7777 | grillmarkadurinn.is

ICELANDIC FISH & CHIPS Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1118

GRILL HÚSIÐ Tryggvagata 20, 101 Reykjavík +354 5623456 | grillhusid.is

ÍTALÍA Laugarvegur 11, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 4630 | italia.is

GRILLIÐ Radisson BLU Hotel, Reykjavik 525-9960 | grillid.is

JÓMFRÚIN Lækjargata 4, Reykjavik +354 551 0100 | jomfruin.is

HAMBORGARABÚLLAN Geirsgata 1, Reykjavik 511-1888 | bullan.is

KJALLARINN - KITCHEN BAR Aðalstræti 2, Reykjavik +354 517 7373

HAMBORGARAFABRIKKAN Höfðatún 2, Reykjavik +354 575 7575 | fabrikkan.is

KOL Skólavörðustígur 40, Reykjavik +354 517 7474 | kolrestaurant.is

HEREFORD STEAKHOUSE Laugavegur 53b, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 3350 | hereford.is

KOLABRAUTIN Austurbakki 1, 101 Reykjavík +354 519 9700 | kolabrautin.is

HORNIÐ Hafnarstraeti 15, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3340 | hornid.is

KOPAR Geirsgata 3, Reykjavik +354 567 2700 | koparrestaurant.is

HÓTEL HOLT GALLERÝ RESTAURANT Bergstaðastræti 37, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 5700 | holt.is

KRINGLUKRÁIN Kringlan Shopping Centre, 103 Reykjavík +354 568 0878 | kringlukrain.is

62

ALL IN ONE

RESTAURANT

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Sk

egur

Vegamót

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Diverse menu, great value and a wide selection of cocktails, beers and wines.

gata

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Ve g a m ó t a s t í g

| 101 Reykjavík

| tel. 511 3040

| www.vegamot.is

KRUA THAI Tryggvagata 14, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 0039 | kruathai.is

NÚÐLUSKÁLIN Skólavörðustígur 8, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 0202 | nudluskalin.is

KRUSKA Suðurlandsbraut 12, 108 Reykjavík +354 557 5880 | kruska.is

ORIENT EXPRESS Lækjargata, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 3838 | hradlestin.is

KRYDDLEGIN HJÖRTU Skúlagata 17, 101 Reykjavík +354 588 8818 | kryddleginhjortu.is

OSUSHI THE TRAIN Pósthússtræti 13, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 0562 | osushi.is

LAUGA-AS 104 Reykjavík +354 553 1620 | laugaas.is

PERLAN RESTAURANT Öskjuhlíð, 125 Reykjavík +354 562 0200 | perlan.is

LE BISTRO Laugavegur 12, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 5979 | lebistro.is

POTTURINN OG PANNAN Brautarholt 22, 105 Reykjavík +354 551 1690 | potturinn.is

LEBOWSKI BAR Laugavegur 20a, Reykjavik +354 552-2300 | lebowski.is

RESTAURANT REYKJAVÍK Vesturgata 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 3030 | restaurantreykjavik.is

LÆKJARBREKKA Bankastræti 2, Reykjavik +354 551 4430 | laekjarbrekka.is

REYKJAVIK FISH AND CHIPS Tryggvagata 8, 101 Reykjavik

MAR - SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Geirsgata 9, Reykjavik +354 519 5050 | marrestaurant.is NOODLE STATION Skólavörðustígur 21a, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3199 NÚÐLUHÚSIÐ Laugavegur 59, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 2400 | nudluhusid.is

ROADHOUSE Snorrabraut 56, 101 Reykjavík +354 571 4200 | roadhouse.is ROSSOPOMODORO Laugavegur 40a, Reykjavík +354 561 0500 | rossopomodoro.is SAFFRAN Álfheimar 74 2, 104 Reykjavík +354 578 7874 | saffran.is

64

Nú ge m

Há

Bæ fra

The concept of the restaurant is "casual fun dining" and we prepare what we would call a simple honest, "feel good", comfort food, where we take on the classics with a modern twist.

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 40 · 101 REYKJAVÍK · TEL.+354 517 7474 · KOLRESTAURANT.IS

SAKEBARINN Laugavegur 2 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 777 3311 | sakebarinn.is SATT Nauthólsvegur 52 +354 444 4050 | sattrestaurant.com SCANDINAVIAN SMORREBROD & BRASSERIE Laugavegur 22b 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 4888 | scandinavian.is SHALIMAR Austurstraeti 4, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 0292 | shalimar.is SMURSTÖÐIN Harpa, Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 519 9750 | smurstodin.is SNAPS Óðinstorg, Reykjavik +354 511-6677 | snapsbistro.is SJÁVARBARINN Grandagardur 9 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 3131 | sjavarbarinn.is SLIPP BAR Mýrargata 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 560 8000 | slippbarinn.is SKRÚÐUR

By Hagatorg 2, 107 Reykjavík +354 525 9970 | skrudur.is

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VIÐ TJÖRNINA Templarasund 3 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 8666 | vidtjornina.is VOX RESTAURANT Sudurlandsbraut 2, 105 Reykjavík +354 444 5050 | voxrestaurant.com ÞRÍR FRAKKAR Baldursgata 14 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 3939 | 3frakkar.com

cafés

SUSHIBARINN Laugarvegur 2 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 4444 | sushibarinn.is

BABALÚ Skólavörðustígur 22a, 101 Reykjavík +354 555 8845 | babalu.is

SUSHISAMBA Þingholtsstræti 5 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 568 6600 | sushisamba.is

BÍÓ PARADÍS Hverfisgata 54, 101 Reykjavík +354 412 7711 | bioparadis.is

SÆMUNDUR Í SPARIFÖTUNUM Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 6060 | kexhostel.is

C IS FOR COOKIE Týsgata 8, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 5914

TAPAS BARINN Vesturgata 3b 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 2344 | tapas.is

CAFÉ FLÓRA Botanical Gardens, 104 Reykjavík +354 553 8872 | cafeflora.is

THE ICELANDIC BAR Ingólfsstræti 1, Reykajvik +354 517 6767 | islenskibarinn.is

CAFÉ HAITI Geirsgata 7b, 101 Reykjavík +354 588 8484 | cafehaiti.is

THE SEA BARON Geirsgata 8 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 553 1500 | saegreifinn.is

CAFÉ LOKI Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 466 2828

THE SEAFOOD GRILL Skólavörðustígur 14, Reykjavik +354 571 1100 | sjavargrillid.is

CAFÉ MÍLANÓ Faxafen 11, 108 Reykjavík +354 588 8860 | cafemilano.is

THE STEAK HOUSE Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavik +354 561 1111 | steik.is

CAFÉ PARIS Austurstræti 14, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 1020 | cafeparis.is

TORFAN Amtmannastígur 1, Reykjavik +354 561 3303 | torfan.is

CAFÉ RÓMA Rauðarárstígur 8, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 0020

UNO Hafnarstraeti 1-3, Reykjavik +354 561 1313

CAFÉ SÓLON Bankastræti 7a, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 3232 | solon.is

VEGAMÓT BISTRO Vegamotastigur 4, 101 Reykjavik +354 511 3040 | vegamot.is

GRANDAKAFFI Grandagarður 101, 101 Reykjavík +354 5529094

VIÐ SKÓLABRÚ Pósthússtræti 17 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1690 | skolabru.is

GRÁI KÖTTURINN Hverfisgata 16a, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 1544

TÍU DROPAR Laugavegur 27, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 9380 | tiudropar.is VOLCANO HOUSE Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavik +354 555 1900 | volcanohouse.is ÖLSTOFAN Vegamotastigur 4, 101 Reykjavik +354 552 4687

nightlife AUSTUR Austurstræti 7, 101 Reykjavík +354 568 1907

HANNESARHOLT CULTURAL HOUSE Grundarstíg 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1904 | hannesarholt.is IDA ZIMSEN Vesturgata 2a, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 5004 KAFFIVAGNINN Grandagarður 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 5932 KAFFIFÉLAGIÐ Skólavörðustígur 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 520 8420 | ww.kaffifelagid.is

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KAFFISMIÐJAN Kárastígur 1, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 5535 | kaffismidjan.is KAFFITÁR 101 Reykjavík +354 551 4540 | kaffitar.is KOFI TÓMASAR FRÆNDA Laugavegur 2, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 1855 KORNIÐ BAKERY Lækjargata 4, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 1803 | kornid.is LAUNDROMAT CAFE Austurstræti 9, Reykjavik +354 587 7575 | thelaundromatcafe.com MOKKA KAFFI Skólavörðustígur 3a, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 1174 | mokka.is MÚLAKAFFI Hallarmúli, 108 Reykjavík +354 553 7737 | mulakaffi.is PRIKIÐ Bankastraeti 12, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 2866 | prikid.is SANDHOLT BAKERY Laugavegur 36, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 3524 | sandholt.is STOFAN CAFÉ Aðalstræti 7, 101 Reykjavík +354 567 1881 TE & KAFFI Laugavegur 27, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 6260 | teogkaffi.is

B5 Hverfisgata 18, 101 Reykjavík +354 690 6021 BAR 11 Bankastræti 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 9600 | b5.is BARANANAS Klapparstígur 38, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 5444 BJARNI FEL BAR Austurstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 2240 | bjarnifel.is BOSTON REYKJAVIK Laugavegur 28b, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 7816 | facebook.com/boston.reykjavik CAFÉ ROSENBERG Klapparstígur 25-27, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 2442 CELTIC CROSS Hverfisgata 26, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 3240 | celticcross.is DEN DANSKE KRO Ingólfsstræti 3, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 0070 | danski.is DILLON Laugavegur 30, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 2400 | dillon.is FJÖRUKRÁIN - VIKING VILLAGE Strandgata 55, 220 Hafnarfjordur +354 565 1213 | fjorukrain.is HRESSINGARSKÁLINN Austurstraeti 20, 101 Reykjavik +354 561 2240 | hresso.is KAFFIBARINN Bergstaðarstaeti 1, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 1588 THE DUBLINER Hafnarstræti 4, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 3232 | dubliner.is THE ENGLISH PUB Austurstræti 12A, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 0400 | enskibarinn.is ÖLSTOFAN Vegamotastigur 4, 101 Reykjavik +354 552 4687

Casa Grande is situated in the charming, renovated wooden Zimsen building in Reykjavík’s Old Harbour.

With a great view over the ocean and the port.

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GREAT FOODGOOD DRINKSNICE ATMO uno is the perfect place to start a good day or end a great evening

HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY 17-19

free Wifi

KITCHEN IS OPEN Weekends 11.30–24 Other days 11.30–23

UNO at Ingólfstorg | Tel. 561 1313 | www.uno.is

ICELAND‘S SECRET TO HEALTHY LIVING

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DAY TOURS, ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES 74

Reykjavík is a nice place, but you also really need to get out of town and see the surrounding nature.

Because the city isn’t very big, it’s actually incredibly convenient – a mere 25-minute drive brings you into the countryside. This chapter takes you through the major areas around Reykjavík, as well as some of the numerous activities you have to choose from.

From Reykjavík, there are (at least) 4 different day tours that we’d recommend for sure if time is available. We’ve covered each one on the next few pages, giving a bit of local insight into the magnificent Golden Circle, which is without a doubt the most popular one of them all, as well as the beautiful South Coast, the Reykjanes Peninsula and finally the West Iceland. All these different locations have their

attractions and reasons for visiting, and come highly recommended!

But there is of course more to Iceland than “just” exploring nature. Iceland is an adventure destination and as such, there are myriad things to discover and experience.

We touch lightly upon those, offering just a small glimpse of the menu with items such as snorkelling, horseback riding, whale-watching, caving and much more!

Odds are you didn’t visit Iceland for a lazy vacation, but on the contrary, that you’re here to go a bit out of the box and experience something you wouldn’t anywhere else.

Iceland is just the right destination for that! The weather might be rough, but the people are nice and you’ll always find an adventure to do!

INTERESTING PLACES AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY REYKJAVÍK 90 km

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www.reykjavikcityguide.is

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A DAY FROM REYKJAVIK:

© Reykjavik Excursion

THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

The Golden Circle is a 300 km loop that usually opens and closes in Reykjavik. It covers three main locations: Þingvellir National Park, the waterfall Gullfoss and the erupting geyser Strokkur in Haukadalur.

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Þingvellir National Park is a historical and geological wonder, located in fields of the beautiful vegetation north of Þingvallavatn, the largest lake in Iceland. There you will find the famous rift Almannagjá where the Eurasian and American tectonic plates are pulling apart by a few centimetres each year. Þingvellir was the founding place of Iceland’s Parliament in 930 and the venue for annual parliament meetings until 1798. Þingvellir is also the place where in 999 or 1000 it was decided that Iceland should be a Christian nation and where Iceland declared its independence from Denmark in 1944.

There is nothing more Icelandic than Þingvellir. Even the least patriotic Icelander will experience feelings of loyalty and commitment upon walking through there. It is sacred and it is who we are.

Gullfoss Then we have the two attractions in Biskupstungur, a waterfall and a geyser. The waterfall Gullfoss (Icelandic for golden waterfall) is in the river Hvítá and is 32 metres high where it plunges into the 70 metre deep canyon surrounding it. In the early 20th century there were many who felt strongly that Gullfoss should be harnessed for production of electricity. This plan was abandoned when the daughter of the main advocate threatened to throw herself in the waterfall.

The State of Iceland acquired the waterfall in 1940 and it has been on the state preservation list since 1979.

Nobody ever speaks with solemnity of harnessing it anymore, it is considered priceless in its natural state. This has even developed into a phrase within certain circles in the country so that when you suggest something inanely stupid you get replied to with the words: And then what? Sell Gullfoss?

STEIKHÚSIÐ THE STEAKHOUSE

The Steak house is in the middle of Reykjavík, opposite the old harbor, which has in recent years transformed into a lively neighborhood of restaurants, cafes and artisan stores and work shops.

Try our local seafood or feast on a Black Angus steak from the charcoal oven

Steikhúsið Tryggvagata 4-6 (+354) 561 1111 www.steik.is

Geysir Haukadalur valley, where both Gullfoss and the geyser Strokkur are located, is a very active geothermal area. In addition to Strokkur and his brother Geysir, Haukadalur is the home of a multitude of mud pools, fumaroles and algal deposits.

Strokkur erupts once every 4-8 minutes and reaches a height of 15-20 m, sometimes it goes as high as 40 m up in the air. It is spectacular, scary and very Icelandic. But then again, so are many, many, many other locations in Iceland.

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We have geothermal areas and awesome waterfalls all over the place.

So why is this 300 km loop such a phenomenon when it comes to tourism? Ask anybody and they will tell you that if you only have one day in Iceland, spend it on the Golden Circle. Why? It has been argued that any wonder of nature that can me fitted into a day tour from Reykjavik, has nice roads and shops and catering at the other end would become an attraction.

The argument is basically that it is simply combination of these factors that has made the Golden Circle what it is. I must admit that this is an argument that I have found myself making from time to time in pure irritation over the popularity of this particular waterfall over all the others.

But I’ve been thinking and I have a theory: When my parents were kids, people used to go for a drive on Sundays. Sometimes just within the city limits but on nice summer days the Sunday-drive concept was taken

© Reykjavik Excursion

to the next level. Is it possible that this is when the Golden Circle came to be?

The trip would take the entire day and the roads were nothing like what they are now but all the same. People would make a packed lunch, eat it on Þingvellir, go to Geysir for afternoon coffee (where there has been coffee for sale since 1928!) and be back home in Reykjavik by dinner time. And now that I think about it, that is why the Golden Circle is so popular.

Because in the old days it was OUR main attraction and when the tourists started pouring in, showing interest and asking where to go we naturally told them, without even a moment’s hesitation, to go where we have been going for decades. So the Golden Circle being what it is really just says one thing about Icelanders; We are a “mi casa su casa” sort of folk and we want you to enjoy the same things we do.

So, I welcome you, no, I implore you, to go see the Golden Circle if it’s the only trip you make out of town while you’re here.stes

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A DAY FROM REYKJAVIK:

THE BEAUTIFUL SOUTH COAST The south coast of Iceland is an action-packed adventure ride full of exciting activities and otherworldly vistas.

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It’s one of the most popular places for a sightseeing day tour from Reykjavík.

It offers an incredibly large variety of natural phenomena which are unusual or unique to a foreign eye. Driving from Reykjavík, you will travel over the Hellisheiði highlands, with the option of stopping at the Hellisheiði power plant and geothermal energy exhibition, where you can tour the plant and learn about this strange source of energy. From the heath you will travel down into the valley around Hveragerði, a town built on a geothermal hot spot, so you will see columns of steam rising up here and there in the hills around and even in the town itself, and there’s even a restaurant

there called Kjöt & Kúnst there which cooks food with the steam from the ground!

Moving forward, you’ll drive past amazing mountains and valleys along the coastline until you get to the magical Seljalandsfoss waterfall which falls in the mouth of a cave so that you can walk the whole way around it and on a sunny day, you’re likely to see a full rainbow in the spray emanating from its base.

After this you will come to the Iceland Erupts exhibition, a memorial to the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull which halted all air transport in Europe for a while.

This is followed by Skógafoss, an even larger, more powerful waterfall, and right by that is the tiny community of Skógar, which has a fascinating local museum and a couple of hotels. This is also where the mountain trail of Fimmvörðuháls

THE GLACIAL LAGOON ON THE SOUTH COAST This tour takes us along the beautiful south shore of Iceland to the otherworldly Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon. The trip includes some charming villages as well as Skaftafell National Park and the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Prior to the lagoon is Iceland’s largest volcano, the ice-covered Öræfajökull, and the island’s highest peak at Hvannadalshnjúkur (2110 m). At Jökulsárlón we’ll take an amphibious vehicle into the water to further explore the lagoon. The area was formed early in the 1920s and grows every year. In the water you’ll see several icebergs calved from Europe’s biggest glacier, Vatnajökull, as they drift towards the ocean, only a kilometer away.

starts off though you should be careful to check the conditions and get advice before considering climbing it.

After all this you will reach the town of Vík, where you can walk along the Reynisfjara black-sand beach with a view over the strange rock formations of the coast and even view some black basalt columns if you know where to go. This is all in sight of Katla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes and Mýrdalsjökull glacier amongst the endless mountains and hills, and you could easily throw in a hike or a guided tour of the glacier to spice up your journey. If you decide to do that, just be careful and take precautions, ask advice, always let someone know where you’re going, keep your phone charged, bring warm clothes and make sure you have good shoes!

You shouldn’t leave Iceland without experiencing the wonders of its glaciers. Glacier hiking is the best way to get up close and personal with one of Iceland’s many elements.

Visiting the glaciers under the guidance of a professional glacier guide is a safe way to explore the adventurous phenomenons hidden in a glacier; rugged ice crevasses, sink holes, jagged ridges, ice walls and amazing ice formations. Whether it’s glacier hiking on Europe’s biggest glacier Vatnajökull, at Jules Vernes’s center of the earth Snæfellsjökull or at the ash covered Sólheimajökull – glacier hiking is a must-do to get a glimpse of one of the unique wonders of Iceland.

DAY TOURS, ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES

GLACIER HIKING

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www.reykjavikcityguide.is

BSÍ Bus Terminal Reykjavík City

Trip duration approximately

Keflavík International Airport

FAST, FREQUENT & ON SCHEDULE EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK!

Your seat is always guaranteed

Free WiFi on all our buses

In connection with all arriving & departing flights at KEF Int. Airport

Trip duration approximately 45 minutes

RELAX AT

the Blue Lagoon

There is no better way to start or end your Iceland adventure than by bathing in the famous Blue Lagoon.

For departure times, please go to our webpage: www.re.is

BSÍ Bus Terminal 101 Reykjavík +354 580 5400 main@re.is • www.re.is www.flybus.is

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WE’LL TAKE YOU THERE! ALL THE MOST EXCITING PLACES IN ICELAND

EXPERIENCE A GREAT DAY WITH US!

More tours available on our website www.re.is AND IN OUR BROCHURES!

BOOK NOW on www.re.is at your reception

Free WiFi

A DAY FROM REYKJAVIK:

© Reykjavik Excursion

REYKJANES PENINSULA

Nature, Legends and Geothermal Energy.

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Reykjanes is the peninsula closest to Reykjavík, making it an easy place to day-trip whether by bus or by car. It is also where the international airport at Keflavík lies, so you’re very likely to drive past at least some of it on your trip to Iceland. The peninsula is marked by endless lava fields and mountains in the distance, geothermal areas and cute little villages.

Starting out from Reykjavík, you’re likely to drive towards the town of Hafnarfjörður, where you might want to stop over and have a meal at the Viking Village. From there we recommend turning off the main road and heading over the road through the lava fields towards Kleifarvatn, a beautiful lake and a perfect place for a walk if the weather is nice. This leads you naturally to Krýsuvík, a geothermal hot spot

where you’ll find numerous bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles.

From here, you might head east to Strandakirkja church, which according to legend was built by a sailor who stranded just off the coast but was rescued by an angel on the promise he would build a church where he washed ashore.

After this, travelling west along the peninsula and passing through Grindavík, you can stop by the Gunnuhver fumarole, where legend has it the murderous ghost Gunna was lured by a priest with a ball of yarn and still resides. In the same area you can visit Reykjanesviti lighthouse and walk along the dramatic sheer rock coastline, with a view over the unique island Eldey. Traveling north from here, stop by the Bridge Between the Continents before passing through Keflavík on your way to relax in the Blue Lagoon spa on your way back to the city.

THE BLUE LAGOON SOAK IN CULTURE Icelanders simply cannot walk past hot water without at least sticking a toe in. The most impressive place to appreciate this “love of the soak” is in the warm, eerily blue waters of the Blue Lagoon, nestled in the lava field landscape of Reykjanes peninsula.

Rain or shine, by moonlight or midnight sun, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most exotic experiences on the island. The milky waters stretch out over the lava lagoon with 6 million liters of geothermal seawater replenished every 40 hours. bluelagoon.com

vík r 11 Reykja Laugavegu Reykjavík Kringlan 7

A DAY FROM REYKJAVIK:

BORGARNES AND WEST OF ICELAND

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If you fancy getting out of town a little bit, it’s fantastic to day trip in Western Iceland, in the Borgarfjörður bay area. About an hour north of Reykjavík you will see the bridge to Borgarnes, a charming little town with all basic facilities; restaurants, swimming pool and of course museums: the Settlement Centre – a museum about the viking times in the area, and the Heritage Centre, about life in the 19th century. You can choose to cross the bridge to Borgarnes or travel into Borgarfjörður on the other side of the bay, without passing through the town.

Whichever way you go, the first notable place you get to is Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe.

Here you can see boiling hot water come straight up from the ground, powerfully bubbling, steaming and splashing.

A little further along, you come to Hraunfossar, the Lava Waterfalls. These are remarkable since you can’t see any river there – the waterfall comes straight out from solid rock. This is because the glacial water flows underneath the lava field for many miles without seeing the light of day. A short walk from here is the amazing waterfall Barnafoss, or Children’s Waterfall. Its name comes from a folk story that says there used to be a stone arch over the river. Ages

© Christoph Strässler @ Flickr

ago, two children fell off the arch and drowned in the river, so their mother had the arch destroyed.

Víðgelmir, Iceland’s biggest lava cave by volume, is a lava tube formed during a volcanic eruption, when the magma started to cool on the surface, but there was still a hot “river” of magma flowing beneath it. Then the magma flow stopped, leaving a hollow cave beneath the cool crust on the surface. Nearby Surtshellir, similar in nature, is Iceland’s longest lava cave.

Finally, if you’re travelling with a specially outfitted vehicle and guide, you can kick the adrenaline into gear and drive up on Langjökull glacier, experiencing the ivory behemoth where the summer never comes. If you’re particularly adventurous, you can even travel Into the Glacier, in a recently opened man-made glacier cave, equipped with a chapel, bar and movie theatre.

If you want to add even more to your day, skip the tunnel under Hvalfjörður bay and take the scenic route back to Reykjavík. There you can see the old whaling station, or even hike to the tallest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur.

Your Ticket to

Adventure LEARNING AND EXPERIENCING

SNOWMOBILING

ADVENTURE TOURS

BEAUTIFUL NATURE

Tel. (+354) 580 9900 ice@mountaineers.is www.mountaineers.is

© Dive.is

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ACTIVITIES FROM REYKJAVÍK

Reykjavik and surroundings offer a multitude of activities to do on top of the standard day tours. Many of these activities can be added onto the tours, making for a fuller day with more than just enjoying the breathtaking nature, while other require a longer time or more dedication. Then there are even a few things that you can do on a whim, and don’t even have to take too much time! Whatever it is, you can trust that there’ll be plenty of things to do!

HORSEBACK RIDING Not only is Iceland’s breed of steed a horse of a different colour, it’s a horse of an entirely different genetic make-up. Having been bred in almost perfect isolation for over 1000 years, the Icelandic horse is unique in many respects. They are relatively small (if you fall, you won’t fall far) and notably well-tempered, though they are probably most famous for their unusual fifth gait: the tölt. Tölt is a way of walking unique to the Icelandic horse, which keeps the rider stable while manoeuvring easily over Iceland’s uneven landscape.

SNORKELLING AND DIVING IN SILFRA BELOW YOUR FEET...

For those adventure-seeking visitors that want to explore parts of Iceland normally hidden from the naked eye, but are not experienced divers, no need to worry. The fissure Silfra is not only a world class diving location but ideal for snorkelling tours unlike anything you have seen before. The crystal clear water offers over 100 meters of visibility so those not experienced enough for diving can easily enjoy this hidden gem. This location offers the chance of floating along the fissure and seeing first-hand the amazing world underneath ours, an adventure most can handle and previous experience is not required. Silfra is of course also a world renowned diving site, for those that want to actually experience it full-force and have the necessary permits! A number of tour operators offer day tours in this location all year.

Underneath the mountains and lava fields is an incredible subterranean realm that just begs to be discovered. Iceland has 500 known lava caves, a mere 5% of the estimated total of 10.000. Exploring these caves is a great way to experience first-hand how the land formed from the molten lava, cooling and freezing time forever. It’s a great adventure, and everyone should try it!

© Íshestar

WHALES, PUFFINS AND SEA ANGLING When Icelanders aren’t scarfing down their humpbacked friends, they are admiring their grace and beauty from a respectful (and safe) distance. The ocean surrounding Iceland is a fantastic place to go go Whale Watching. The most frequently seen cetaceans are minke and humpback whaless. It’s also easy to take a dedicated Puffin Watching tour, which takes you out to the puffin colonies of the islands outside Reykjavík in the season, from mid-May to midAugust. Finally, if you’d rather taste the inhabitants of the sea than look at them, Sea Angling boat tours abound at the Old Harbour in Reykjavík.

ATVS IN ALL TERRAINS! ATVs, four-wheelers, quad bikes… I don’t know what you call them, but we call them fun! Just a stone’s throw outside Reykjavík, you can take your road-rage to the lava fields where these powerful machines eat up the terrain. Quad bikes open up a world that’s normally hidden from the average traveler: the hills and mountains normally only accessible to off-road vehicles.

© Safari Quad

curious out to these wonders of nature to enjoy their raw power and grotesque beauty. Last but not least there is Þríhnúkagígur, the only place on earth you can go inside an empty volcano.

GEOTHERMAL WILDERNESS The columns of steam rising from the geothermal plants at Nesjavellir and Hellisheidi are a magnificent sight. You can actually take a tour of the Geothermal Energy Exhibition at Hellisheiði, a state-of-the-art geothermal power plant. The plant shows how geothermal energy is harnessed in a sustainable manner in Iceland, a showcase for the rest of the world. The area is also an excellent hiking and outdoor destination with trails which vary in length and difficulty and trail maps in place on site.

DAY TOURS, ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES

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ICELAND’S VOLCANOES: ABOVE, ON TOP OF OR UNDER www.reykjavikcityguide.is

Iceland is one of the most volcanically active places on earth with more than 30 active volcanoes. The most famous one of these is probably Mt. Eyjafjallajökull, which temporarily halted Europe’s air traffic in 2010. Other notable volcanoes include Hekla, widely held to be the entrance to Hell in the middle ages, and Bárðarbunga, which erupted in 2014.

There is a great abundance of Super Jeep Excursions, Scenic Flights and Helicopter Tours which will take the © Elding

© Mountaineers of Iceland

ICELAND’S GLACIERS

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The surface of Iceland is 11% Glacier.

Iceland is home to the largest ice cap in Europe, Vatnajökull, in addition to other formidable ones such as Langjökull, Mýrdalsjökull and Snæfellsjökull. You can barely go anywhere in Iceland without spotting one of these ivory behemoths in the distance, but if you want to get up close and personal, there’s no better way than a guided Glacier Hike, Ice Climbing, Glacial Snowmobiling Excursion or even a unique tour Into the Glacier. Yes. You don’t want to go on a glacier without a certified guide!

FOOD & CULTURE TOURS Iceland’s cuisine is unique and fascinating. Smoked, cured, dried, salted – meat, fish or bread, there are many unusual and delicious combinations to choose from. One great way to experience this is by taking a guided Food Tour which samples the different flavours in chosen locations.

CITY TOURS Reykjavík is a fantastic little city. There are many guided tours of different kinds – paid or unpaid – which focus on major sights, culture and history, the city’s

less-known secrets or even good places to party. There are tours on foot, bike or Segway, to name just a few. Keep your eyes peeled for the tour that appeals to you or just turn over to page 94 for some of our self-guided walking tours.

JEEP TOURS Iceland’s rugged and untamed nature can be hard to navigate in a regular vehicle. This is why you will see a great many specially modified Super Jeeps around, capable of traversing unbridged rivers, drive up on mountains and generally get around without roads. It’s simple to take such a tour up onto volcanoes and glaciers, into the untouched wilderness of the highlands, or to caves, waterfalls and other inaccessible natural phenomena.

ABOVE AND BEYOND Scenic flights by plane or helicopter.

Despite its meagre population, Iceland has an area the size of Kentucky, larger than Scotland. The distances are huge and it’s often difficult to take in more than a small part in one trip. Why not take in vast distances at a time in a scenic flight or helicopter tour, getting a unique sense of the scale and power of this wild land? The incredible vistas over the volcanoes, glaciers and sandy deserts are beyond compare!

SNOWMOBILING

© Icelandic Mountain Guides

For those who aren’t content to just look at this island’s magnificent nature, one of the most exciting ways you can experience it first-hand is definitely snowmobiling on a glacier. These adventure excursions will take you on an adrenaline filled ride while allowing you to experience the glacial landscapes in a unique and wonderful way.

WHALE WATCHING AND OTHER WILDLIFE ADVENTURES FROM REYKJAVIK

“Special Tours is the best!”

Reviewed Apr 19, 2015

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Whale Watching Andrea: 09:00, 13:00, 17:00 Whale Watching Express: 10:00, 14:00, 20:00

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09:00 09:00 09:00 09:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 14:00 14:00 17:00 17:00 17:00 17:00* 20:00** 20:00**

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THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND REYKJAVIK 92

The capital city area of Reykjavík and surrounding towns, is home to two thirds of Iceland’s 300.000 strong population. This city is vibrant and bubbling with artistic creativity, rich with history and at the same time very near to nature.

Whether you’re visiting landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa concert hall and city hall, bathing in hot springs like Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach or enjoying some of the local parks and nature reserves, one thing is certain – you won’t be bored in Reykjavík!

The following chapter explores the multitude of things available within the city, that don’t necessarily have to take up a full day, or rely on a super-jeep or a bus for transportation. The city is filled with green areas, perfect for strolls and walks, such as the Laugardalur Valley, or Heiðmörk. For those travelling with a family, there’s plenty of things on offer as well, such as the Family Park and Zoo, and of course the ever popular geothermal pools. For those longing to walk, we even created our suggested walks, featuring some of the highlights of the city, with short description.

All in all, one can trust that the city of Reykjavik is welcoming, lively and full of things to do. You just have to look for them!

For more information on things to do in and around Reykjavik, don’t hesitate to consult www. reykjavikcityguide.is, www. visitreykjavik.is, talk to your (shouldbe) friendly hotel lobby staff, or visit your nearest Tourist Information office, such as ITA, What’s On, ITM, Trip just to name a few.

HISTORIC AL EX HIBITION • CA FÉ • TH E ATRE • SH O P

The Saga Museum recreates key moments in Icelandic history, moments that have determined the fate of our people. In this vibrant, multidimensional museum you learn about Icelandic history in a way that is both educational and enjoyable.

SAGA MUSEUM Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 1517 Open: Daily from 10:00 to 18:00

WWW.SAGAMUS E UM . I S

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RED PATH HISTORICAL SITES Duration: About 2.5 hours with refreshment stops.

Distance: 1.6 km/1 mile.

[1] REYKJAVÍK’S OLDEST STREET Excavations on Aðalstræti street have revealed ruins dating back to Viking era, when the first settlers came to Iceland. In 1752, the enterprising Constable Skúli Magnússon, often called the father of Reykjavík, decided it should be a site for various factory

workshops called the “Innréttingar,” which eventually grew into the core of what we now call downtown Reykjavík.

[2] THE OLDEST TIMBER BUILDING Aðalstræti 10 is considered the city’s oldest timber house. In olden times it was the residence of Bishop Geir Vídalín (1761-1823), whose hospitality was infamous, to say the least.

[3] THE FALCON HOUSE

[2]

On the corner of Hafnarstræti and Aðalstræti you’ll find the Falcon House. Icelandic Falcons (Falco Rusticolus) were kept in a house on this site before being shipped to buyers overseas, namely European aristocracy. Statues of falcons adorn the house today reminding us of its former role.

[4] [4] THE HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT

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While Iceland’s Alþingi might be the world’s oldest living parliament (founded in 930 AD it predates Great Britain’s parliament by 777 years, the US Congress by 851 years and Russia’s Duma by 976 years), Iceland’s House of Parliament was only built in 1881. Before this time the Alþingi assembled outside at Thingvellir National Park.

[5]

GOSSIP LEDGE

On the corner of Skólavörðustígur and Bergstaðastræti is a place called “Gossip Ledge”. In olden times it was customary for people in Reykjavík to gather here and swap gossip. The party has since been moved to the Reykjavík city hot tubs, where all of Iceland’s most important discussions are had.

[6] THE PENALTY HOUSE One of the city’s oldest buildings is the Hegningarhúsið jail (literally, “The Penalty House”) built in 1874. It still functions as a prison today, although with no cafeteria or gym this dreary place makes Iceland’s other prisons look like Club Med.

from the washerwomen who would tread through the mud carrying heavy loads of laundry down to the geothermic pools in Laugadalur valley.

[8] GOVERNMENT HOUSE Completed in 1771, this was Iceland’s first proper prison, designed to hold 16 felons and 54 misdemeanants— serving as such until 1816. Today it houses the Prime Minister’s Office and serves as the meeting place for the state council consisting of Iceland’s 12 ministers. Some say that while they closed the prison, the criminals still haven’t left the building.

[5]

[7] LAUGAVEGUR Now crowded with boutiques and cafés, Laugavegur wasn’t always so glamorous. The street gained its name (Lauga+vegur = pool+road)

[6]

[1]

BLUE PATH PARKS AND STATUES [1] AUSTURVÖLLUR PARK Arguably the true heart of the city, Austurvöllur is where the locals flock to soak up the sun while it lasts during nice whether. It’s also where the locals gather to hurl skyr at parliament and bang pots and pans in protest when they’re not happy with the government.

[2] JÓN SIGURÐSSON

[4]

SKÚLI MAGNÚSSON

(1711-1794) Although many Icelanders cringe at the idea of bringing heavy industry to Iceland today, it was Constable Skúli Magnússon, dubbed the “Father of Reykjavík,” who first brought factory production to Reykjavík with the so-called “Innréttingar” industrial workshops.

If you visit Viðey Island you can still see his residence, where he lived from 1754 until his death. Sculptor: Guðmundur Einarsson

[3] TRYGGVAGARÐUR GARDEN Named after Tryggvi Gunnarsson (1835 – 1917), a renowned entrepreneur and prime minister of Iceland, this garden

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[4]

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

(1811-1879) Born June 17, 1811, Jón Sigurðsson became the beloved leader of Iceland’s struggle for independence and separation from Danish rule in the 19th century. In his pursuit of freedom for Iceland, Jón crossed the Atlantic 29 times on cargo vessels and mail boats to plea with the Danish government. In the end, Danes granted Iceland a limited constitution in 1874.

In commemoration for his efforts Iceland celebrates its independence day on Jón’s birthday. You’ll also find this handsome fellow on the 500 kr. note. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson

dates back to 1893 and is known as a place where the nation’s leaders come to make important decisions. After all, it’s located directly behind the House of Parliament.

THINGS TO DO

Duration: About 4.5 hours with refreshment stops.

Distance: 3.2 km/2 miles.

[4] [5] FÓGETAGARÐURINN PARK The site of Reykjavík’s first cemetery dating back to the time of Iceland’s settlement, used for over 800 years.

It is believed to contain the remains of 30 generations of Icelanders.

Spreading its limbs across the park is Reykjavík’s oldest tree: a Rowan tree dating back to 1884.

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[6] SUÐURGATA CEMETERY The green space opposite downtown on the other side of the pond is a cemetery, eerily treed in an otherwise nearly treeless cityscape (good fertilizer?). It was first used in 1838 and actually provides a lovely respite on a sunny day for stroll through the past.

Denmark and through hard work and diligence becomes one of the most sought after sculptors in Europe, working for royalty, aristocrats and renowned collectors. After a life of fame and fortune he dies in grand style at the Royal Theater in Copenhagen, buried at his own request under a bed of roses next to the museum housing his works.

Sculptor: Bertel Thorvaldssen

[10] PAVILION PARK (Hljómskálagarðurinn) What used to by the city dump for the most part of the 19th century is now a popular place to picnic by the lakeside.

[7] THE LAKESIDE In this area the past meets the present with Reykjavík’s modern palace of a city hall flanked by some of the city’s loveliest houses from the turn of the century on both sides of the lake.

[8] BJARKARGATA GROVE

[8]

In 1914 there were 400 birch trees planted on this spot, marking Iceland’s first concerted effort towards reforesting the island. As you can see, they have a long way to go.

[9] BERTEL THORVALDSEN (1770-1844) The humble son of an Icelandic woodcarver settles in

[9]

[12] [13] MOTHERS’ PARK [11] [11] 100

JÓNAS HALLGRÍMSSON

(1807-1845) If the pen is mightier than the sword, then this man was a Sherman tank. His sweeping romantic poetry on Icelandic nature and beauty coincided with the nation’s battle for independence. In fact, many consider his words to be one of the driving forces behind Icelanders insisting on escaping the Danish crown. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson

[12] COURT GARDEN (Hallagarðurinn) Originally a private garden, but in 1955 it became the first large recreation area in Iceland to be specifically designed by a landscape architect.

[14]

(Mæðragarðurinn) One of the city’s first playgrounds. In 1925 the area was declared a public park and dedicated to mothers with young children (hence the statue of mother with child).

[14] HANNES HAFSTEIN (1861-1922) Farm boy from the North makes good. Hannes graduated from the Icelandic National School in 1880 and later as a lawyer from Copenhagen University. In 1904, he became the first Icelander to be appointed to the Danish Cabinet as the Minister for Icelandic Affairs, reporting to the Icelandic parliament. Later he became Iceland’s first prime minister. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson

[15] INGÓLFSBREKKA HILL Probably one of the best-preserved sections of old Reykjavik’s landscape.

In 1806, it marked the eastern boundary of the city.

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[19]

[21] [16] SHERIFF’S GARDEN

[17] KING CHRISTIAN IX Ruled Denmark from 1863 to 1906, known as the “Grandfather of Europe” as many of his descendants married into other royal houses. In 1874, he issued a new constitution for Iceland, a compromise between Iceland’s demand for sovereignty and Denmark’s interest in maintaining the monarchy. When the king set foot in Iceland it became the country’s first royal visit—even if it was only to boot Iceland out of the kingdom. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson.

[18] ARNARHÓLL HILL

Christopher Columbus who?

Icelanders will happily explain that it was their own Leifur Eiríksson who discovered America some 600 years before Columbus. As a “thanks for finding us” present to Iceland, America gave the nation this heroic statue of the Leif the Lucky, who now perches on the highest hill in downtown Reykjavík. Sculptor: Alexander S. Calder

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[21] EINAR JÓNSSON SCULPTURE GARDEN Behind the Einar Jónsson Museum is a garden exhibiting casts of Einar’s sculptures.

The fierce Icelandic national pride is captured in these boldly rendered, allegorical figures.

[19]

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

Before 1764, Reykjavík had no prison. Instead, Iceland shipped their undesirables out to Denmark for imprisonment and had to pay dearly for the service. In an effort to save some króna, in 1757 the Icelandic magistrates asked the Danish crown for permission to simply hang convicts instead of hassling to send them abroad. The king didn’t go for the idea, instead ordering that a proper prison be built on Arnarhóll Hill.

[20] LEIF THE LUCKY THINGS TO DO

Dating back to 1862, this park is probably the oldest preserved household garden in Reykjavik.

Through Hressingaskálinn café on Austurstræti you can access the garden and eat outside, or just sit down for a cup of coffee.

INGÓLFUR ARNARSON

According to Iceland’s Book of Settlement, it was 870 AD when the island’s first permanent settler, Ingólfur Arnarson, threw his two wooden chieftain poles overboard, believing that wherever they washed ashore was where he was fated to build his settlement, which later became Reykjavík. Archaeological excavations at Aðalstræti and Suðurgata streets have revealed evidence of an ancient settlement that supports this story.

Sculptor: Einar Jónsson.

REYKJAVIK ON TWO WHEELS While biking culture in Reykjavík isn’t as prevalent as its continental counterparts like Copenhagen and Amsterdam, it’s still a great place to bike because of how much green space the city occupies and how close you are to the great wide open just beyond the city limits.

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HEAVEN ON WHEELS

IN THE CITY...

Most cyclists are drawn to the less busy paths outside of Reykjavík’s center. There are a number of glorious paths along the coast that will take you around the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, such as Sæbraut to the north and Ægissíða to the south.

Legally bikes are considered vehicles in Iceland and are meant to be ridden on the right side of the road along with motorists. Be aware that many drivers are not used to sharing the road with cyclists, so take care. The city has made enormous strides in introducing bike lanes, and you can legally bike on sidewalks and walking paths, as long as you don’t interfere with pedestrian traffic.

Another popular area is Elliðaárdalur valley, a lush, green nature preserve centered around the Elliðavatn lake and the streams that run out of it along the valley. Or if you’re really looking to get lost in the great outdoors then hit the much larger Heiðmörk wilderness preserve next to Elliðarárdalur. The cycling path brings you all sorts of landscapes from evergreen forests (a rarity in Iceland, you might have noticed) to scrub and lava fields.

Biking is also a great way to get to know Reykjavík. Bike tours are organized year round (bikes and helmets provided) where you’ll get beyond the city center to discover some of the city’s extensive green spaces. Or if you’re up for a real adventure then rent a scooter to zoom along the coast and the wilderness on the outskirts of town.

BICYCLING TOUR ACROSS THE CAPITAL Start out by the charming old harbour of Reykjavík and head toward City Hall to look at the huge topographical map of Iceland. Next, ride along the coast to Nauthólsvík bay, the only artificially heated beach in the world. Then pedal up Öskjuhlíð hill, a great lookout spot to see the city in panorama. There’s also a replica of the Geysir hot spring on the way. Next, stop for some refreshments at a café near Reykjavík’s iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, and then circle back to end up at the harbour where you started. Altogether this trip should take about 3-4 hours and is also available as a guided tour.

www.reykjaviksegwaytours.com Segway tours in Reykjavik. Scheduled tours in summer every day at 13:00, and private tours available all year. Call/text Stefan: + (354) 897 2790.

www.reykjavikbiketours.com Bicycle tours all year, RENT-A-BIKE, morning tours, evening tours, bicycle and van combination - Golden circle and more. Call/ text Ursula & Stefan: + (354) 694 8956.

NAUTHÓLSVÍK A little bit of paradise is to be found in the form of a goldensanded geothermal beach at Nauthólsvík in Reykjavík.

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It was opened in 2001 to the delight of residents and tourists alike and now attracts an estimated 530.000 guests each year. The creation of the geothermal beach was an ambitious, but very successful, project involving the construction of a lagoon with large sea walls, where cold sea and hot geothermal water fuse together resulting in higher temperatures.

The main objective of creating the geothermal beach was to establish the bay of Nauthólsvík as a diverse outdoor area and haven

for recreational activities, such as sunbathing, sailing and seaswimming: the latter is surprisingly popular all year round with people enjoying the use of the hot-tubs, steam-bath and changing facilities and showers, even when the water drops below freezing. Cold-water swimming might sound crazy, especially in a country like Iceland, however this extreme activity dates all the way back to the age of settlement. The oldest recorded sea-swimming feat was performed in the year 1030, when Grettir Ásmundarson (of Icelandic Saga legend) swam a distance of 7km across a bay in North Iceland to the island of Drangey.

The sea temperature varies from around -1,9°C during the coldest months and around 17°C in the summertime. Average temperatures are between 3°- 5°C in the winter and 12°- 15°C in the summer. The temperature of the sea inside the lagoon itself is higher in the summer, averaging at between 15°- 19°C, due to the geothermal heating. It’s also significantly warmer during the winter in opening hours when the overspill from the hot-tubs warm the lagoon. Keep in mind that this also depends on the tide. During high-tide when the lagoon floods temperature differences are negligible.

Verbúð 11 / Geirsgata 3 / tel. 552 0011 / verbud11.is

Seafood reStaurant with freSh taSte at the old harbour Open all days from 11:30–22:00

© Elding

VIÐEY AND THE PEACE TOWER

Enjoy a short trip with the Elding ferry service to the lovely island of Viðey, situated in Kollafjörður just off the coast of Reykjavík.

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Apart from its ancient ruins and rich historical background, other attractions include impressive works of art by Yoko Ono (the Imagine Peace Tower) and Richard Serra (the Milestones project).

Fans of architecture will also be interested to learn that the church in Viðey is one of the oldest in the country and that Viðey House is the first building in the country to be constructed with stone.

With an extensive network of trails and a population of lovely resident horses the island can be explored

both on foot and by horseback. No matter which path you take, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mainland, and to the west you’ll be able to see the impressive outline of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

In summertime there are daily ferry departures both from Skarfabakki pier and Ægisgardur harbour. The winter service runs on Saturdays and Sundays from Skarfabakki to Viðey.

Note that trips to Viðey are free with the Reykjavík Welcome Card.

Imagine Peace Tower The Imagine Peace Tower is a work of art conceived as a beacon to world peace by the legendary artist, musician and peace advocate, Yoko Ono. The work is designed in the form of a wishing well from which a powerful tower of light beams. The words IMAGINE PEACE are inscribed on the well in 24 different languages.

The light tower is composed of a number of individual lights that join together to form a single beam. Six of the lights travel through corridors across a platform that surrounds the well and are reflected upwards to the sky with mirrors. An additional nine lights shine straight up to the sky, strengthening the tower of light.

RICHARD SERRA AND ÁFANGAR

The strength, intensity and brilliance of the light tower continually change as particles in the air fluctuate with the changing weather and atmospheric conditions unique to Iceland.

The inauguration of the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER took place during a private ceremony on 9 October 2007 on Viðey Island, Reykjavík, Iceland.

The artwork was dedicated to the memory of John Lennon on what would have been his 67th birthday.

Since then it lights up the evening sky annually from 9th October to 8th December. It is also lit during the winter solstice for one week, on New Year’s Eve and on Spring Equinox for one week.

The electricity for the light comes entirely from Reykjavik Energy, which produces the electricity from geothermal power. The construction and installation of the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER was done in collaboration between Yoko Ono, the City of Reykjavik, Reykjavik Art Museum and Reykjavik Energy.

THINGS TO DO

Richard Serra (b.

1939) is one of the most renowned artists of today. The exhibition Áfangar

by Richard Serra is now on display at Reykjavík Art Museum, Hafnarhús. It comprises drawings and prints made by him in connection with his work Áfangar in Viðey Island.

Visitors are urged to go out to the island to see the work for themselves.

Guided tour in English about Richard Serra and Áfangar every Saturday at Hafnarhús at 11 a.m. and in Viðey Island at 12:30.

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Island History Nature Art videy.com Summer Schedule from 15 May to 30 September From Ægisgarður

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Winter Schedule on weekends from 1 October to 14 May From Skarfabakki To Skarfabakki

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www.reykjavikcityguide.is

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From Harpa From Skarfabakki

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© The Official CTBTO Photostream

Höfði House, built in 1909, is considered to be one of the most beautiful and historically significant buildings in the Reykjavík area.

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It’s best known as the location for the 1986 summit meeting of presidents Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbatsjov, a historical event that effectively marked the end of the Cold War. During this meeting images of the house were broadcast all over the world. A Japanese millionaire even had an exact replica of the house built in his country. The sculpture in front of the house depicts pillars from the chieftain’s seat of the first Norwegian settler in Reykjavík.

Höfði was initially the house of the French consul in Iceland and still bears many signs of its original purpose, such as the letters R.F (the abbreviation of the French Republic),

HÖFÐI HOUSE the name of the consul and the year of its construction above an inside door. Among other renowned guests of Höfði House include celebrities and heads of state, amongst them the Queen of England, Winston Churchilll and Marlene Dietrich. In addition, the house is believed to be occupied by a ghost, “The White Lady”, experienced by a former British Ambassador who once occupied the house. She caused so much distress that he persuaded the British Foreign Office to sell the house.

Höfði is owned by the the City of Reykjavík and is currently used for official receptions and meetings.

Although the house is unfortunately not open to the public, visitors are welcome to explore the house from the outside. Höfði House is located on Borgartún in the 105 area of Reykjavík overlooking the waterfront.

© Laurentgauthier

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OUTDOOR AREAS IN REYKJAVIK Mt Esja Dominating dramatically the Reykjavík city skyline and providing a stunning backdrop to the capital area is the impressive Mount Esja, a popular destination for day-trippers and riddled with well-worn hiking trails. Once surmounted, the view from the top of this 914 metre high mountain is breathtaking.

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There are several different routes up and around the mountain, varying in terms of difficulty. The path is divided into sections, marked with signs along the way. Each sign gives an indication of the difficulty of the path ahead with a grade system ranging from 1 boot (easy) to 3 boots (challenging). At sign 3, experienced climbers can choose to climb directly to the top, instead of following the path which goes off to the right. Approximately 200 from the top, there’s a point marked with a big rock called “Steinn”. Most inexperienced climbers choose to stop here and take in the view before going down again, as the path becomes increasingly difficult from there on. If you do get to the top, don’t forget to sign the guestbook!

Please remember to take care when climbing. It can be steep in places and large quantities of snow are often present on the upper slopes.

Follow your chosen route closely and definitely take advice on the weather conditions before attempting a climb.

Mt. Esja is located in Kjalarnes, past the town of Mosfellsbaer just east of Reykjavík. It is accessible by the number 15 bus from Hlemmur bus station. Get off at Háholt in Mosfellsbaer, then take the number 57 to the foot of Esja at Esjuskáli.

Elliðaárdalur Valley Elliðaárdalur Valley is a lush recreational area popular with walkers and cyclists alike. Located within the city limits of Reykjavík the valley features a distinctive fishing river populated with a remarkable number of Arctic char, salmon and brown trout.

Fishing licenses are available during the summer fishing season, which is opened annually by the Major of Reykjavík on June 1st. The season ends on August 31st. Note it’s also possible to fish in the nearby Elliðavatn Lake and Reynisvatn Lake.

Laugardalur Valley Laugardalur (Hot Spring Valley) is a major centre for sports and recreation in the capital.

In Laugardalur, you will find a youth hostel, a campsite, and the largest outdoor thermal pool in Reykjavík, Laugardalslaug, in which you can swim all year round. It is very hard to

The Family Park and Zoo in Laugardalur is open all year. The Zoo includes most Icelandic animals, both wild and domesticated, from foxes, reindeer and seals to cattle, horses and sheep. In summer the Family Park offers many rides and play equipment for children of all ages. Outside the summer season the Family Park remains open as a play area. At the edge of the Laugardalur valley, not far from Laugardalur Arena, is a strangely shaped, domed white building. It is known as the Reykjavík Art Museum’s Ásmundarsafn sculpture collection.

This used to be the studio of Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982), a pioneer of

Reykjavík’s main sports stadium is also located in Laugardalur valley and mostly used for football (soccer) matches in the summertime. Close to the stadium is the Laugardalsholl arena, a multipurpose indoor venue built in 1965. In addition to large pop and rock concerts, trade shows, exhibitions and the 1995 World Championship of Handball, the Laugardalsholl hosted the famous 1972 World Chess Championships, where American Bobby Fischer defeated Russian Boris Spassky.

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Other sports facilities in the valley include running tracks, football fields and an indoor ice rink.

Heiðmörk Nature Reserve Situated on the southeast outskirts of Reykjavík city is Heiðmörk - a wonderful recreational area with many trails leading through a vast expanse of bushy vegetation and lava formations. Some of the parks most

© Laugardalsvöllur @ Facebook

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

© Family Park and Zoo @ Facebook

Icelandic sculpture. In addition to his works exhibited inside the museum, a sculpture garden outside contains many of his monumental works.

THINGS TO DO

describe the experience of tiptoeing over frozen ground to the pool in your swimsuit and then immersing yourself in the wonderful water that nature (and some ingenious Icelandic geothermal engineering) has thoughtfully heated to just the right temperature: the number of returning visitors definitely suggests it’s worth trying. Laugardalur also boasts a beautiful botanical garden featuring an impressive selection of Arctic flowers and plants.

Beneath the branches of a leafy grove in the gardens you’ll find the lovely Café Flora.

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notable features are the Rauðhólar or ‘Red Hills’ – the remnants of a cluster of pseudocraters in Ellidaárhraun lava field. Heiðmörk is a favourite with the locals, especially for sports enthusiasts, those with children and couples looking for a romantic retreat!

Öskjuhlíð is a beautiful woodland area surrounding the Pearl - one of Reykjavík’s stunning landmark buildings.

Heiðmörk became a conservation area in 1950 and derives its title from its namesake in Norway. The district forestry service manages the area, including its 18 mile long gravel road network and the Rauðhólar nature reserve.

Conveniently located right in the heart of the city this gorgeous place makes for a popular quick getaway from city life, where visitors can cycle or walk along the various paths, that weave through a dense forest of pines and birch trees.

More than four million trees have been planted there since 1950 and the already existing vegetation has thrived since the area was fenced-off.

The most prominent of the 26 species of trees planted is the Sitka spruce.

Those fascinated by the more feathery residents of Reykjavík will be pleased to discover that 30 species of breeding birds have also been spotted.

The paths around Öskjuhlíð join an extensive network of well-maintained footpaths in Reykjavík, leading through the scenic shores of Nauthólsvík and around the coastline to Seltjarnanes.

Another option is to take the southeast trail to the recreational areas and valleys of Fossvogsdalur and Elliðaárdalur and on to the Heiðmörk heath nature reserve.

Öskjuhlíð

© Axel Kristinsson @ Flickr

GRANDI Over the centuries, the waterfront of Grandi has been anything but grand.

The harbourside area has housed industrial things such as fishermen’s dwellings, boathouses, fish-working facilities and so on, and generally people wouldn’t go there except for fish-related reasons.

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In recent years, this has been rapidly changing. The whole area seems to be caught in an upswing that shows no signs of letting up. It still retains its dockside charm and there’s still a strong presence of the fishing industry, but scattered amongst them is a steadily growing number of museums, hip restaurants and artisan’s workshops, making Grandi one of the hottest spots in the city. It would be hipsterish if it weren’t so authentic, with real-life fishing boats on land for repairs and out in the bay as they bring in the catch of the day.

The museums that have made their mark in the area include the innovative Saga Museum, which brings the Sagas of the Vikings to life with wax sculptures, the Whales of Iceland, the largest whale museum in the world which houses many life-sized models of whales, the Aurora Museum where you can see the Northern Lights all year round, and the Maritime Museum, which documents the monumentally important role of fisheries throughout the history of Iceland.

On the restaurant front, the area is distinguished by smaller, innovative, and often more nature-focused eateries.

Established institutions feel grounded in the past, such as Kaffivagninn, which has served “home-style” food on the waterfront since 1935, while new and innovative places like Matur og Drykkur serve as a meeting of past and future,

with traditional cuisine served in a creative nouvelle cuisine fashion. You will find creative familyrun restaurant Coocoo’s Nest, which made its mark with sourdough pizzas and taco Tuesdays, and hit ice-cream store Valdís.

Amongst this interesting flora of culture and cuisine is a smattering of small workshops and quirky stores, such as the clothing design workshops of Steinunn, who worked with the likes of Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Gucci for many years, Krínólín and Sifka, which honours the history of the area with clothing and designs made of fish-leather. Up the road you will find Delicatessen Búrið, which offers cheeses, jams, cured meats and olives from around the world, goldsmith Jens Gullsmiður, cycle workshop Kría and public art piece Þúfan (the Hillock) where you can climb up for an awesome view.

And the progress continues: Matarbúrið, the first specialty store with only 100% farm-traceable meat, artisan’s bakery 17 Sortir which will specialise in mini-cakes, macaroons and cupcakes, and seafood restaurant Bergsson, and artisan chocolate maker Omnom are only a few of the places planning to open up in the very near future.

It will be exciting to see how the waterfront will develop as these quirky and creative places gain traction, what kind of store or workshop will pop up next, and how its history will affect its future. But in all this one thing seems certain – Grandi is certainly worth stopping by and strolling around, and it will definitely continue to be so for years to come. So stop by, try some innovative food, pick up some unique design and take in a fantastic museum, you won’t be bored with a day at Grandi.

Búrið is a quirky cheese shop down by the old harbour area in Reykjavik.

Visit us for specialty foods from Icelandic farms and other small, local producers. Gloriously stinky cheeses from Iceland and around the globe.

More details at www.burid.is/english or check us out at www.tripadvisor.com

Informal cheese workshops Mondays and Fridays end-May until end-August groups by appointment – for all food lovers from the merely curious to the serious cheese enthusiast. All this over lunch (included) in our fabulous cheese school buttery.

Open: Mon - Fri 11:00 -19:00 and Sat 11:00 - 17:00 Grandagarður 35 · 101 Reykjavík Tel.: 551 8400 · www.burid.is

E C I R P W LO

E R O T S Y R ry t E n u o C c e O h t y in GR best variet

Fresh fruits & vegetables Freshly baked bread GRANDI

WHALES OF ICELAND

Large selection of quality meet

16 STORES AROUND ICELAND

NÓATÚN

Reydarfjordur Akranes Mosfellsbaer Reykjavik area 11 stores

Selfoss Westman Island

REYKJAVIK Grandi • Nóatún • Arbaer • Bildshofdi • Jafnasel • Grafarholt KOPAVOGUR Lindir • Hamraborg • Vallakor HAFNARFJORDUR Hvaleyrarbraut • Reykjavikurvegur

View locations and opening hours at www.kronan.is

Pools and spas are a huge part of the Reykjavík lifestyle. Geothermal water is one of Iceland’s greatest natural resources. It’s used to heat houses and produce electricity, but moreover Icelanders just love to sit in it.

Many believe Iceland’s geothermal water includes some great health benefits, especially for skin ailments like psoriasis and eczema. But besides that, these waters imbue the body with a great feeling of well-being.

THERMAL POOLS INCLUDED IN THE REYKJAVÍK CITY CARD

If you’d like to treat yourself to Reykjavík’s loved spa culture, indulge in a trip to the local pool or spa.

KLÉBERGSLAUG

Kjalarnes, 116 Reykjavík | 566 6879 Open: M-F 15:00-21:00, Sa-Su 11:0015:00

ÁRBÆJARLAUG

LAUGARDALSLAUG

BREIÐHOLTSLAUG

SUNDHÖLL REYKJAVÍKUR

GRAFARVOGSLAUG

VESTURBÆJARLAUG

Fylkisvegur 9, 110 Reykjavík | 411 5200 Open: M-T 06:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa 09:00-22:00, Su 09:00-22:00

Austurberg 3, 111 Reykjavík | 557 5547 Open: M-T 06:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa 09:00-18:00, Su 09:00-18:00 Dalhús 2, 112 Reykjavík | 510 4600 Open: M-T 06:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa –Su 09:00-18:00

Sundlaugarvegur, 104 Reyk. | 411 5100 Open: M-F 6:30-22:00, Sa-Su 8:0022:00

THINGS TO DO

POOLS & SPAS

The country has over 170 pools— both spread around the country and throughout all of the capital region’s neighbourhoods. Most swimming complexes include a lap pool, several hot tubs and at least one steam room.

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Barónstígur, 101 Reykjavík | 411 5350 Open: M-T 6:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa 08:00-16:00, Su 10:00-18:00 Hofsvallagata, 101 Reykjavík | 411 5150 Open: M-T 6:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa 09:00-18:00, Su 09:00-18:00

OTHER THERMAL POOLS IN THE REYKJAVÍK CAPITAL AREA SUNDHÖLL HAFNARFJARÐAR

VARMÁRLAUG

ÁSVALLALAUG

GARÐABÆJARLAUG

SUÐURBÆJARLAUG

ÁLFTANESLAUG

KÓPAVOGSLAUG

SUNDLAUG SELTJARNARNESS

SALALAUG

LOFTLEIÐALAUG

LÁGAFELLSLAUG

NAUTHÓLSVÍK

Herjólfsgata 10, Hafnarfjörður | 555 0088

Ásvellir 2, Hafnarfjörður | 512 4050

Borgarholtsbraut 17, Kópavogur | 570 0470

Versalir 3, 201 Kópavogur | 570 0480 Lækjarhlíð 1a, 270 Mosfellsbær | 517 6080

Ásgarður, 210 Garðabær | 565 8066 Bjarnastaðir, 225 Álftanes | 550 2350

Suðurströnd, 170 Seltjarnarnes | 561 1551 Loftleiðir hotel, 101 Reykjavík | 444 4085 Nauthólsvegur, 101 Reykjavík| 511 6630

For a complete listing of Iceland’s pools, locations and opening times, visit www.swimminginiceland.com

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

Hringbraut 77, Hafnarfjörður | 565 3080

270 Mosfellsbær | 566 6754

NORTHERN LIGHTS 118

When you’re in Iceland in the winter, changes are high that you’re in Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis season. The nights are pitch black, and they‘re long. That means that if you‘re visiting right now, your chances are as high as they can be of catching the ever elusive, yet beautiful lights!

the Northern Lights. You’re never guaranteed to see them and luck always plays a fair part. Sometimes they decide to play nice and dance around for awe struck visitors, but at other times they won’t show, even though all conditions indicate a light spectacle should be showing.

During the ever bright summers of Iceland, they’re completely impossible to see – so a big crowd of would-be visitors to our country await the winter with excitement, as the lights are truly an impressive sight. However, nothing‘s for free in this world – and neither are

Check out whatson.is/Northern-Lights for a great list of useful tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your Northern Lights hunt!

© Reykjavik Excursion

EVENT CALENDAR Summer 2015

SECRET SOLSTICE FESTIVAL

FESTIVAL OF THE SEA

First held in June 2014, and received unanimous praise from both Icelandic and foreign guests. 8000 people attended the festival in its first year, including 2000 foreign guests. It received rave reviews both from domestic and foreign media.

JUNE 6TH-7TH // HATIDHAFSINS.IS

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A very special day in Iceland as it reminds us of how important the sea and its sailors are to our history, our economy and our people. Every ship in Iceland is in harbour and the sailors have a day off.

A light-hearted occasion with lots of fun for the whole family.

BRIGHT DAYS IN HAFNARFJORDUR // HAFNAFJORDUR.IS

The Hafnarfjordur arts and cultural festival Bright Days is held annually in June. The aim of Bright Days is to provide entertainment for locals and visitors, and to promote Hafnarfjordur arts and artists.

The varied programme offers something for everyone.

VIKING FESTIVAL IN HAFNARFJÖRÐUR JUNE 12TH-17TH // FJORUKRAIN.IS

The Viking Village in Hafnarfjordur town hosts a Solstice Festival with Viking clothing, instruments, jewellery, crafts, and of course food and drink.

NATIONAL DAY JUNE 17TH // 17JUNI.IS

The National Day of Iceland has been celebrated on June 17th since 1944. The festivities in Reykjavík include colourful parades, street theatre and music, sideshows and dancing.

JUNE 19TH-21ST // SECRETSOLSTICE.IS

INGÓLFSHÁTÍÐ VIKING FESTIVAL JULY 11TH //

Hljómskálagarður Park is transformed from modern to medieval as the Einherjar Vikings, dressed in full costume and character the festival, invites fellow Vikings from all over the world to enjoy a weekend of wonderful festivities and to celebrate the fascinating cultural heritage of the Vikings!

REY CUP 2015 INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL FESTIVAL JULY // REYCUP.IS

Football and Fun! During the previous years a number of international teams have participated in Rey Cup from the UK to the other Nordic countries at the Laugardalur Sport Center.

INNIPUKINN FESTIVAL JULY 31ST-AUGUST 2ND //

Innipúkinn is an annual music festival, held in Reykjavík on the August bank holiday weekend. Past guests include Cat Power, Blonde Redhead, Mugison, Raveonnettes, Hjálmar, Mínus, Dikta,FM Belfast, Televison + many more.

REYKJAVÍK PRIDE

ICELANDIC CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

AUGUST 4TH-9TH // REYKJAVIKPRIDE.IS

AUGUST 6TH-15TH // MUSICFEST.IS

Brings tens of thousands of people into the city centre every year to show solidarity and have fun with the gay community in Reykjavík and to celebrate and support human rights for all.

The aim of the festival is for young musicians to participate in chamber music and to get a chance to perform and interact irrespective of where they live or study. Located in Kópavogur, where Salurinn concert hall serves as perfect grounds for over a hundred musicians and music students from all over the world.

REYKJAVÍK CULTURE NIGHT AUGUST 22ND // MENNINGARNOTT.IS

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Reykjavík Culture Night has become an essential part of cultural life in Iceland with thousands of people strolling the streets of the city on this exciting and eventful night. Culture Night offers the chance to enjoy a variety of activities ranging from traditional shows and exhibitions to more unusual happenings.

REYKJAVÍK DANCE FESTIVAL AUGUST 25TH-30TH // REYKJAVIKDANCEFESTIVAL.COM

Invites you to a series of events bringing together numerous choreographers and dancers from the Icelandic dance scene to create a ten- day festival of dance. The festival features a diversity of energetic events, all aiming to expand the notion of choreography through innovation and expression with numerous seminars, dinners, workshops, publications, cyberpunk dance sessions, and epic performances.

REYKJAVÍK JAZZ FESTIVAL AUGUST 12-16TH // REYKJAVIKJAZZ.IS

The annual Reykjavík Jazz Festival is an increasingly prestigious event on the international jazz scene. It features many acclaimed international Jazz players as well as Iceland’s leading Jazz musicians.

REYKJAVÍK MARATHON // MARATHON.IS

This annual event involves thousands of participants from Iceland and abroad, and includes the marathon proper, half marathon and the so-called “Fun Run”.

The official programme starts at noon and ends in the late evening.

Winter 2015 REYKJAVIK INTERNATIONAL LITERARY FESTIVAL SEPT. 9TH-13TH // BOKMENNTAHATID.IS

The Reykjavík International Literary Festival has been held since 1985 and is one of the most important literary festivals in Europe. Meet authors, attend readings and seminars or dance with your favourite author at the Literary Ball!

REYKJAVÍK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL - RIFF SEPTEMBER 24TH-OCTOBER 4TH // RIFF.IS

Founded in 2004 by a group of film enthusiasts and professionals with the goal of creating an annual international

period. The tree is always placed in Austurvöllur and is ceremoniously lit every year on the first Sunday of the advent. Families gather to sing Christmas carols and join in the festivities, and the Yulelads make an appearance.

IMAGINE PEACE TOWER

DECEMBER // VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

OCTOBER 9TH // IMAGINEREYKJAVIK.COM

A work of art by Yoko Ono dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. A wishing well, from which a strong and tall tower of light emerges. Every year the Imagine Peace Tower emerges between Lennon’s birthday and the day of his death.

ICELAND AIRWAVES NOV 4TH-8TH //ICELANDAIRWAVES.IS

Started as a showcase for local DJs and has evolved into a full-blown, international music festival that presents the hottest new bands from the USA, Europe and Iceland. The festival attracts thousands of international visitors annually to sample the freshest sounds, foreign and domestic.

UNGLIST (YOUNG ART FESTIVAL) NOVEMBER // UNGLIST.IS

LIGHTING OF OSLO CHRISTMAS TREE NOVEMBER 30TH

Every year since 1952, the City of Oslo, Norway has presented Reykjavík City with a Christmas tree for the festive

Christmas is celebrated everywhere in society. The main day of celebration for Icelanders is Christmas Eve but celebrations start by late November, when streets and buildings are adorned with Christmas lights and people start frequenting Christmas buffets. Shop for some unique gifts in Reykjavík city centre, visit the quaint Christmas Village in Hafnarfjordur town, check out the Christmas-themed museum exhibitions and explore the winter landscape around Reykjavík. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day you can enjoy a traditional Icelandic Christmas dinner at the restaurants in Reykjavik.

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NEW YEAR’S EVE DECEMBER 31ST //

Shops are open and visitors can dine at one of Reykjavik’s many restaurants. Join in the celebrations by taking a New Year’s Eve tour or by finding your own way to one of the city’s huge bonfires. Then it’s time to reconvene for the big send-off at midnight, where we set off a great amount of fireworks. Traditionally one of the year’s biggest knees-up and all the bars, pubs, music halls, clubs and entertainment establishments are open for business. The action doesn’t really start downtown until a good bit after midnight, but the party will still jumping at 6am.

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

This festival week is packed with a multitude of performers and spectators.

The program consists of music, design, fashion, photography, paintings and theatre. The festival reflects current trends in young people’s art.

ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS

EVENT CALENDAR

film festival in Reykjavík to enrich and enliven the local film culture, but moreover, to become an international attraction. RIFF’s reputation has spread considerably and the number of international guests has multiplied making the festival one of the best-kept secrets of the film festival circuit.

January 2016 ÞRETTÁNDINN (TWELFTH NIGHT) JANUARY 6TH

The last day of Yule is celebrated with another round of bonfires and possibly some elfin dances. Many of the magical events associated with New Year’s Eve are also supposed to occur on our twelfth night. This is also traditionally when Icelanders set off whatever fireworks we didn’t get around to on New Year’s Eve.

REYKJAVÍK INTERNATIONAL GAMES // RIG.IS

The city of Reykjavík will for the seventh time welcome sports participants to a multi-sport competition in Laugardalur, the Valley of Sport.

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DARK MUSIC DAYS

MUSEUM NIGHT

The annual contemporary music festival Dark Music Days is becoming an increasingly popular music event. The Iceland Composer Society holds the festival in collaboration with most of Iceland’s finest performers.

// SAFNANOTT.IS

THORRINN Every winter Icelanders celebrate the annual Thorrablot, a very lively and joyful festival with a lot of singing, dancing, and of course the consumption of traditional Viking food: smoked lamb, singed sheep heads, stockfish, rye bread steamed in hot ground, delicious “skyr,” and topped off with “brennivin” (Icelandic schnapps).

There are other ingredients as well but they need to be seen (and smelled) to be believed.

february 2016 WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL // VETRARHATID.IS

Designed to be an event to stimulate and enliven city life in the midwinter.

It celebrates both the winter and the growing light after a long period of darkness. All the major cultural and educational institutions participate and clubs, galleries, artists, shops, restaurants and many more join in the fun.

Reykjavík’s museums stay open past midnight and offer special events, including theatre, street performances, dance, visual arts and more. A special Museum Night bus travels between the museums and all entrance is free.

SÓNAR FEB. 18TH-20TH // SONARREYKJAVIK.IS

An international festival of advanced music and new media art. The festival presents the current electronic musical landscape and its interactions and hybridization with other artistic disciplines. Sónar brings together established artists and emerging talent.

march 2016 DESIGN MARCH MARCH 10TH-13TH // DESIGNMARCH.IS

Showcases the best creations straight from the Icelandic design scene, with fresh, exciting, exotic and under the radar treasures. The scene is small and intimate, which means you’ll get the chance to meet all the stars of local design. From fashion to furniture, architecture to food design, the festival presents the best of the local design scene alongside exciting international names.

THE ICELANDIC

PENIS MUSEUM The only one of its kind in the world!

HIÐ ÍSLENZKA REÐASAFN Einstakt safn, hið eina sinnar tegundar í heiminum!

DAS ISLÄNDISCHE PHALLUSMUSEUM

Eine einzigartige Sammlung und die einzigste ihrer Art auf der Welt!

LA PHALLOTHÈQUE D´ISLANDE Une collection unique, une première mondiale!

No pornography or offensive material in the museum.

Laugavegur 116 • 105 Reykjavík • Tel.: +354-561-6663 phallus@phallus.is • www.phallus.is

Spring 2016 EVE FANFEST APRIL 21ST-23RD // FANFEST.EVEONLINE.COM

An exciting weekend event inviting countless fans from across the world to celebrate and share their passion for EVE online.

FIRST DAY OF SUMMER APRIL 21ST

Celebrated with parades, family events and smiles all round – regardless of whether it snows or not.

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FOOD AND FUN

CHILDREN‘S CULTURE FESTIVAL

MARCH 2ND-6TH // FOODANDFUN.IS

APRIL // BARNAMENNINGARHATID.IS

The core element of the festival involves world-acclaimed chefs collaborating with Reykjavík’s finest restaurants.

Each chef is assigned to one of the participating restaurants, where they prepare a special menu crafted from Icelandic ingredients only. The menus are presented at all the restaurants for an entire week.

Children’s culture, culture for children and culture with children. These are the three main aspects of this festival.

Reaching all corners of Reykjavik city from the slopes of Mt. Esja to the bottom of the swimming pools, the festival is meant to become an annual event.

REYKJAVÍK FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL

APRIL // BLUES.IS

// FOLKFESTIVAL.IS

A three day musical feast celebrating the diversity and breadth of the Icelandic folk music scene. The festival showcases artists of all ages, where you can listen to musical outpourings of woe and wonder from contemporary bands, but then be transported back in time to listen to the wonderful soundtrack and musical stories of times gone by.

REYKJAVÍK FASHION FESTIVAL //RFF.IS

The cream of Icelandic fashion talent has joined forces with bright sparks on the music scene to revitalize the established and popular Reykjavík Fashion Festival.

Organizers include E-Label, Nikita, Birna, Thelma-Design, Mundi Design and Faxaflói.

ICELANDIC MUSIC EXPERIMENTS // MUSIKTILRAUNIR.IS

Iceland’s wildest young performers gather in a tightly contested battle for supremacy that means the punter is guaranteed one hell of a show.

REYKJAVÍK BLUES FESTIVAL Blues artists from around the world perform together in some of the most unique jam session in the Northern Hemisphere along with young and promising blues artists of the future.

REYKJAVÍK ARTS FESTIVAL MAY // ARTFEST.IS

Iceland’s premier cultural festival brings together the best in local and international theatre, dance, music and visual art, and offers a variety of exhibitions, concerts, dance, theatre and opera performances. Along with its focus on Icelandic culture past and present, the festival hosts many outstanding international artists and performers.

RAFLOST MAY // RAFLOST.IS

The main aim of the festival is to boost the grass root of Icelandic electronic arts by introducing the youngest generation as well as the general public, to the past, present and future of electronic arts.

To present the newest in electronic art technology, creation and performance, and therefore be an inspiration for further creativity.

BE WARM BE WELL ICEWEAR SHOPS Þingholtsstræti 2 Reykjavík Austurstræti 5 Reykjavík Fákafen 9 (Outlet) Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 106 Akureyri Austurvegi 20 Vík í Mýrdal

www.icewear.is

GOOD TO KNOW Here you’ll find the nitty-gritty nuts and bolts of life in the city.

Although Reykjavík is a relatively small place, it may take some time to figure out how to navigate the city. Most of downtown can be covered by foot, but when you leave the centre things get a little trickier.

DOMESTIC AIR TERMINAL

TAXIS IN REYKJAVÍK

Air Iceland maintains a domestic network based in Reykjavík with destinations around the island and links to the Faeroe Islands and Greenland.

Taxis are normally summoned with a phone call or by going to a taxi stand; you can always pay with a credit card.

Reykjavík Municipal Airport +354 570 3030 | www.airiceland.is

BSÍ-BUS TERMINAL

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Take the bus to destinations all around the island. BSÍ is close to the city centre and there should be taxis waiting to take

you to your final destination and some hotels provide shuttles from BSÍ.

Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 580 5400 | www.bsi.is

RIDE-SHARE A free site used both by drivers looking for passengers and passengers looking for rides. Great for getting out of the city (or back) on the cheap. www.samferda.is FROM & TO THE AIRPORT The airport bus service is the straightforward option. You could also grab a taxi that takes you from door to door. Driving time through the glorious mossy lava fields of Reykjanes peninsula to the capital is about 50 minutes.

Buy your ticket online or in the arrivals terminal. When departing, buy your seat the day prior. Your hotel or guesthouse can normally help you with this.

FLYBUS (flugrútan) +354 562 1011 | www.flybus.is Takes you from Keflavík airport to BSÍ.

AIRPORT EXPRESS +354 540 1313 | www.airportexpress.is Takes you from Keflavík to the centre of Reykjavík.

Hreyfill-Bæjarleiðir +354 588 5522 Bifreiðastöð Reykjavíkur +354 561 0000

DRIVING IN REYKJAVIK Speed limits On city streets the speed limit is generally 50kph / 30mph, unless otherwise posted. .

Seatbelts Wearing seatbelts is mandatory and children under the age of five must be strapped into an approved child seat.

Parking Free parking can be hard to find in the city centre, and violators are towed away literally within minutes. The city uses both parking meters as well as dashboard slips for metered parking.

Cell phones If you get caught using your cell phone while driving, you’ll get a ticket.

Drunk driving If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol level of .05 then you will be charged and your car will be impounded.

Rush hours Weekdays: 7:30 to 9:30 and 17 to 18:30.

Gas stations Most gas stations are open every day from 8 to 23:30— many with 24-hour pay at-the-pump facilities.

CITY BUS (STRÆTÓ) Bus maps are available at bus stations and tourist information centres. Most bus stops also include a route map.

You can go to www.bus.is or download the Strætó mobile app and get precise directions about which buses to use.

Operating hours: Daily from 6:30 / 7 until midnight, except on Sun and most holidays, when it runs from 11:30 / noon until midnight. There is no bus service on Good Friday, Easter, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Fares and tickets: Single trip costs 450 ISK and can be bought from the driver (who does not give change) or the mobile app. If you need to change buses remember to ask for a transfer or “skiptimiði.”

GOOD TO KNOW

PHONE HOME Dialling When dialling internationally in Iceland, dial 00 to get out of the country, then select the country code, then the number. When dialling local numbers you don’t need to include the 354-country code, only the last seven digits.

Cell Phones / GSM Cell phones work almost all over Iceland and you can get an Icelandic pre-paid (“Frelsi) SIM card and use a pre-paid.

There are four service providers in the country: Nova (nova.is), Síminn (siminn. is), Tal (tal.is) and Vodafone (vodafone. is). You can top up your phone through the company’s service number or buy cards from convenience stores.

Phone Centre There is a phone centre at the tourist office at Aðalstræti 2.

Phonebook & Online Maps The Icelandic phone book lists people by their first names and offers an interactive searchable map. www.ja.is Directory information & International assistance: Dial 1818 or 1819 the 24/7 service for information about: names, addresses and numbers, Yellow Pages; be connected to international numbers or make collect calls.

OPENING HOURS Public institutions: Mon-Fri 10 to 15 or 16. General office hours: Mon- Fri 9-17.

Banks; Most banks open Mon-Fri from 9 to 16. The Arion and the Islandsbanki bank branches at Kringlan shopping mall have longer hours and are open on Saturdays.

Shops: Vary, but are generally Mon-Thu 10 to 18, Fri 10 to 19 and Sat 10 to 16.

Malls usually have extended hours on Thursdays.

USEFUL NUMBERS The emergency number in Iceland is 112. Use it in any emergency for ambulance, fire department, medical help, police and doctors.

Doctors on duty 1770 Dentists on duty +354 575 0505 Weather +354 902 0600 Police – Non-emergency Hverfisgata 113 | +354 444 1000

www.reykjavikcityguide.is

Internet Access & Hot Spots The tourist office at Aðalstræti 2 offers Internet access on their own computers for a fee. If you have your own device, you can use WiFi at almost any café or bar downtown for free (sometimes you have to buy a coffee). Many hotels and guesthouses also offer free WiFi.

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KÓPAVOGUR Kópavogur translates as “baby seal bay” and is Iceland’s second largest town.

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Only a stone’s throw from Reykjavík, the town boasts a number of remarkable sights and out-of-the-ordinary buildings including a modern dome-shaped church, the Smáralind shopping centre, and the Salurinn concert hall – a stunning example of contemporary Icelandic design, constructed of driftwood sourced from around the coast of Iceland. The city also affords stunning views over the ocean, mountains and the rest of the capital area, which makes it a prime perch for viewing the fireworks on New Year’s Eve! The Gerðarsafn Art Museum houses an impressive collection of Icelandic art, including about 1,400 pieces by sculptor Gerður Helgadóttir (the museum’s namesake) and 300 works

by Barbara and Magnús A. Árnason.

Hamraborg 4 +354 570 0440 | www.gerdarsafn.is Open: Tue-Sun 11-17

If you’re nuts about nature or fascinated by the formation of Iceland, then your thirst for knowledge can be filled to satisfaction at the Natural History Museum – one of the leading

natural science institutes in Iceland.

The museum hosts exhibitions, with an emphasis on geology and Icelandic wildlife, including the arctic fox and numerous species of fish and birds.

It also has an “extraordinary” (as described by David Attenborough, when he visited in 2005) exhibition of Japanese style “Marimo” lake balls.

Science fans will also want to check out the Borgarholt coastal preserve just a short walk away.

Hamraborg 6A +354 570 0430 | www.natkop.is Open: Mon-Thu 10-19, Fri 11-17,

Sat 13-17

The Kópavogur thermal pool is a great place for young families, with a swimming pool, several hot tubs and a sauna. There is also a Nautilus gym on the grounds.

Borgarholtsbraut 17 +354 570 0470 | sund.kopavogur.is Open: May—Sep | Mon-Fri 6.30-22

Sat-Sun 8-20

Oct—Apr | Mon-Fri 6.30-22

Sat-Sun 8-18

Another great place to make a splash is the Versalir thermal pool and gym.

As one of the newest facilities in the capital area, it’s well worth a visit. If you’d rather work up a sweat then you could visit Nautilus gym onsite.

Versölum 3 +354 570 0480 | sund.kopavogur.is Open: May—Sep | Mon-Fri 6.30-22

Sat-Sun 8-20

Oct—Apr | Mon-Fri 6.30-22

Sat-Sun 8-18

The Hamraborg area is serviced by bus no. 1 kopavogur.is

The Golden Circle

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Northern lights Paragliding on the South Coast

Snowmobile on the top of a glacier

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Contact Information - 24 hour booking service Book now at www.grayline.is or call +354 540 1313 Sales office, Hafnarstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

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HAFNAFJÖRÐUR: THE ELF TOWN IN THE LAVA Have you ever visited a town built into a lava field? Hafnarfjörður is known as ‘the Town in the Lava’ because of its proximity to wildly shaped lava formations. About 7300 years ago Búrfell Mountain erupted and the area where the lava flowed from it, hardening on its way to the sea, became known as Hafnarfjörður.

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THE BEAUTIFUL SEASIDE

DESIGN & HISTORY

Hafnarfjörður is a friendly seaside community that is home to some 28,000 people, many living in colourful houses adorned with corrugated iron.

Hafnarfjörður is a town boasting with numerous interesting design shops and boutiques, with the harbour waterfront featuring one of Iceland’s favorite jewelsmiths.

Hafnarfjörður is close to Reykjavik and has it all! Beautiful parks, an art museum, a folk museum (free admission!), three geothermal pools and a geothermal area at Seltún, numerous restaurants and a selection of boutiques that focus on Icelandic design. All this is located in the compact town centre that is only 15- 20 minutes away from central Reykjavik, with bus no. 1. Get the bus app or see www.bus.is.

TOWN FESTIVALS Hafnarfjördur has its own collection of festivals, one of the most popular being the Viking festival in June.

During Christmas, the town centre is transformed for the festivities into a Yuletide village, with a Christmas market and plenty of live entertainment.

THE HIDDEN PEOPLE Even the Elves wants to live in Hafnarfjörður This beautiful town is known for its elves and hidden people Two local tours cater to visitors interested in learning more about huldufólk. The first tour, called ‘The Hidden Worlds’, focuses primarily

on the colourful history and folklore associated with elves. The second tour is ‘The Elf Walk Tour’ and it focuses on the sincere spirituality and belief system associated with elves or hidden people.

TOURIST INFORMATION Town Hall, Strandgata 6 +354 585 5500 Open: Mon-Fri 8-16 Also at Hafnarfjörður Museum, Vesturgata 8 Open: Jun-Aug, Daily 11-17

Sep-May, Sat-Sun 11-17

NEIGHBORING TOWNS

If you’d like to get acquainted with the town on a deeper level, then a trip to the Hafnarfjörður Museum is a must. The main museum houses two permanent exhibitions; one dedicated to the town’s colourful history while the other presents an exhibition of antique children’s toys.

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SELTJARNARNES Seltjarnarnes is a small town situated on tip of the Reykjavík peninsula, with remarkable views of the Atlantic Ocean.

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Since much of the town is located within a beautiful nature reserve, it attracts many of the locals, who make use of its excellent recreational areas and the extensive walking and cycling paths encircling the entire peninsula.

Its unobstructed views, of the setting sun and the impressive Snæfellsjökull glacier, make it a major romantic destination and magnet for travellers and photographers alike. During the winter, the areas around the coastline become a perfect platform for viewing the magnificent Northern Lights and maybe a shooting star or two! The most visible landmark is the old lighthouse on Grótta Ísland, where you’ll find unending sea-views and a wealth of birdlife. Observe that during the nesting season Grótta is closed from 1st of May until 1st of July.

Adding extra idyllic charm to the town is a permanent art installation entitled Kvika by Ólöf Nordal. Made of dolomite stone with a round footbath carved into the centre, this extraordinary work of art is located on the northern side of the peninsula next to the shark-curing shed. People visiting are thoroughly encouraged to bring a towel and make good use of it by taking a relaxing footbath out in the open sea-air! In case you’d like to warmup more than just your toes, the town’s thermal pool comes highly recommended and features a lap pool, several different hot tubs, a slide, a steam bath and toddler pool; all supplied uniquely with geothermal seawater.

If you’re interested in the development of medicine in Iceland then you’ll find a curious museum on Neströð, which houses a small collection focused on the history of pharmacy.

Another popular stop in Seltjarnarnes is the nine-hole golf course with exceptional ocean views and a nice clubhouse, where players can rent equipment and buy refreshments.

Serviced by bus no. 11. seltjarnarnes.is

GARÐABÆR

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Garðabær literally means “garden town” and is an important part of the greater capital area with its own collection of diverse landscapes, stretching impressively from the beautiful Heiðmörk Nature Reserve to the pleasant Álftanes peninsula.

The town has a rich historic background, which can be explored in great detail at the Hofsstaðir Archaeological Park, where remains of the second largest farm from the settlement age are on exhibition. The site, located at Kirkjulundur, dates back to the end of the 9th century and bears testament to the ambition and drive possessed by the country’s first inhabitants. While visiting you can use your imagination to transport yourself back in time, or alternatively, you can get the official story via their rather modern touchscreen display. Free admission and open 24 hours a day.

There’s a long history of art and design in Iceland. Some of the creative results have been preserved in the Museum of Design & Applied Art at Garðatorg – the town centre. The Museum’s objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts dating from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present day. Today the collection is comprised of countless objects: furniture, items of design, pottery, and glassware, clothing and graphic design.

New exhibitions open regularly and

creative souvenirs can be purchased from Kraum –a design shop situated in the museum. Daily 12:00-17:00, closed Mondays. Garðatorg 1, Tel. (+354) 512 1525. honnunarsafn.is Situated on a low-lying peninsula just south of the city centre, Álftanes is a small community of about 2,500 people.

Both visitors and residents are drawn to this magnificent pastoral setting by the sea and although there aren’t many businesses or commercial centres, there’s still plenty for people to see and do.

Apart from it being home to the official presidential residence Bessastaðir—an ancient farmstead housing the nation’s leaders for centuries, one of its major attractions is the new thermal pool, featuring the largest waterslide in the country and Iceland’s only wave pool. If you’re a fan of the outdoor life and love to stretch your legs, then Álftanes is also a walkers’ paradise with trails spanning 9km (5, 1/2 miles) around the unique shoreline.

Those who are fascinated by the more feathery residents of Reykjavík will also be pleased to discover that the shoreline is filled with clear ponds bustling with migratory birdlife! In case you forget your thermos, not to worry, coffee loving folks can still indulge their taste buds at the newly opened cafeteria, where you can also grab a tasty bite to eat! gardabaer.is

bus.is

Travel in Iceland the smart way Take the bus and pay with the app.

Pay the bus fare and get ticket info with your smartphone. Find your routes, plan your journey, locate the nearest bus stop and track your bus on a real-time map.

You can only pay with the app in the capital area

Catch the bus to ReykjavĂ­k from KeflavĂ­k International Airport Get tickets at the 10/11 shop when you arrive, opposite where you exit customs. The bus stop is close to arrivals and is well marked. From June 7th buses to the airport will stop at arrivals and buses from the airport will stop at departures. ind us on Facebook: facebook.com/Straeto

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l or local pick up our brochure at your hote eagleair.is tourist information centre, or visit t. +354 562 4200 e. info@eagleair.is w. www.eagleair.is