What's On in Reykjavík - April 2024

CONTENT LIST FROM THE EDITOR

If you want to know exactly what it’s like to live in Iceland, let me tell you about the first day of summer. Actually, make that The First Day of Summer. This official holiday celebrates the shift of season, from the dark and gloomy days of winter to the endless days of summer, when the warmth of the midnight sun brings joy to the heart of the Icelandic nation. Only thing is, well, it’s celebrated in April. In other countries farther south, that might make sense but in Iceland? Let’s just say you’re still going to need to pack that winter coat.

The actual reason for this is that in the old Norse calendar, there were only two seasons, winter and summer. But it does make sense that we celebrate the summer this early, it’s a month after the spring equinox so the days are already getting longer.

WHAT’S ON — VOLUME 42 — ISSUE 4

Published by: MD Reykjavík ehf.

Laugavegur 5, 101 Reykjavik. Tel.: 551-3600

Contact us: info@whatson.is

Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Kjartansson

Distribution: nora@whatson.is

Tel.: 830-3629

It’s all about the sunlight! As soon as the days start getting longer, you have more energy to stay out all day and all night, as well as more time to enjoy Iceland’s majestic nature.

We’re not in the season of the midnight sun yet, however. But that’s good news, that means you still have a chance of catching a glimpse of the elusive northern lights dancing across the clear night sky.

So, enjoy the wintery spectacle of the northern lights and happy summer!

Map of Reykjavík: Friðrik Bjarnason

Editor: Erik Pomrenke, erik@whatson.is

Content writers: The What’s On Team

Ad sales: Reynir Elís Þorvaldsson, reynir@whatson.is

Printing: Printall AS

WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVÍK is published monthly, covering events and happenings in and around Reykjavík. Opinions expressed in WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVÍK are those of the individual authors. While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is accurate, prices, times, dates and other information may be subject to change.

What’s On Information Centre, Laugavegur 5.

April is the early herald of Icelandic summer. The days are getting longer and brighter, but the nights are still dark enough for some last northern lights sightings of the season! The promise of springtime is wafting through the air, but it’s still wintry enough to strap on your skis or snowboard to carve your way down the slopes. Plus, you can celebrate the traditional first day of summer!

Here are What’s On’s tips for this month:

Go for a fresh ocean dip at Nautholsvík and soak in the first moments of early summer!

Spot the northern lights. Book a tour before the aurora season ends this month!

Celebrate “Sumardagurinn fyrsti” (the First Day of Summer) on April 25 with a frosty ice cream.

Go soak up the first warm rays of sunshine at one of the local pools, Laugardalslaug and Sundhöllin in Reykjavík are always a great option!

Meet an Icelandic horse. Feel the early spring sun on your face during a horse riding tour.

Go check out the Icelandic goat farm “Háafell” and meet the cute baby goats!

While you’re checking things off the list, snap some photos and tag #whatsonrvk on Instagram.

#WhatsOnRVK on Instagram

So you’re in Iceland, taking in the sights and everything else this magnificent country has to offer. Why not share it with the world?

Tag your photos #WhatsOnRvk and you might be featured in our magazine next month! Browse the entire What’s On catalogue at www.whatson.is.

@the_coco_cosmos

@svenoreo

@stinajull

@alinchen1999

@moments.in.iceland

@coraliedudafotografie

ONE OF THE FOOD WONDERS OF THE WORLD

ICELANDIC LAMB IS THE FIRST ICELANDIC FOOD PRODUCT TO BE PDO-MARKED

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WHAT TO DO IF YOU ONLY HAVE ONE DAY TO SPEND IN

Our first piece of advice if you have just one day to spend in Iceland is to change your flight and stay for at least a week. If that’s not an option, here’s what we suggest to get the most out of this unique destination in such a short time.

If you just want to see the highlights

The Golden Circle is the most popular day tour from Reykjavík – and it’s easy to see why. The classic route includes three stops that also happen to be three of the most captivating natural wonders in Iceland. Tour operators may add their own twists, but you’re sure to stop at Þingvellir, a national park straddling the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates; Gullfoss, an awe-inspiring waterfall that lends its name to the Golden Circle (gull translates to gold); and the Geysir geothermal area, with an erupting hot spring guaranteed to impress. You can complete the Golden Circle in half a day (depending on the tour you book), leaving you time to squeeze more into your short stay.

If you want to visit the newest lava field

The Reykjanes peninsula reminds us for the second year running why Iceland is known as the Land of Fire and Ice. The Meradalir eruption began on August 3rd and lasted until around August 22, 2022. The site of the eruption is an hour’s drive south of the capital and accessible to anyone that can handle a four to five-hour hike. There is also of course the birds-eye view option by helicopter or light aircraft. While the eruption is over, you can still marvel at the

youngest lava field in Iceland and admire nature’s fury first-hand. But please don’t walk on the young lava fields! Lava takes years to fully cool, so there may be molten lava just beneath the seemingly solid surface. Check out the what’s on Iceland website, www.whatson.is for up-to-date info.

If you want to see a glacier

There’s no better way to get a feel for the latter half of Iceland’s “Land of Fire and Ice” moniker than to go on a glacier hike. Glacier hikes are relatively easy and accessible for most, especially because professional gear is provided. You get to walk on a glacier with guides who know everything there is to know about glaciers and Iceland in general. What’s cooler than that?

If you want a little luxury

What’s better than a spa day? Visiting a geothermal spa fed by Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver. At Krauma Natural Geothermal Baths, the water from the hot spring is mixed with cool glacial water for a perfect temperature. It has five hot tubs and one cold bath, plus a relaxation room, two steam baths and an infrared sauna. Alternatively, if you don’t want to leave the capital area, book the seven-step “Ritual” at the Sky Lagoon for a luxurious afternoon of soaking, steaming, scrubbing and other soothing activities.

If you want an adrenaline rush

Are you looking for a thrill? Go on a buggy ride. A buggy is a fast, sturdy and stable ATV, perfect for anyone who loves to get their blood pumping in the great outdoors – and who doesn’t mind getting a little dirty in the process. Driving a buggy through rough Icelandic terrain, over mud puddles, dirt roads or snow, makes for an exhilarating day.

If you want to hit the high seas

Marine life abounds in the water around Iceland, and you can see everything from harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins to minke and humpback whales on a whale watching tour. Tour boats depart Reykjavík’s old harbour throughout the day, cruising to the spots where sightings are most likely. Nothing beats the thrill of seeing a massive whale breach or watching one slap its enormous flukes on the water’s surface. If you have a few hours to spare before or after the cruise (or if you get seasick and a cruise is out of the question), check out the Whales of Iceland exhibition to learn more about these gentle giants.

Stop by the What’s On information centre, or send us an email, info@whatson.is , and ask the staff to help you plan an unforgettable vacation.

How to Travel Safely in Iceland

With a subarctic climate and a tiny population, Iceland is a little different from other popular travel destinations. Desolate landscapes, extreme weather, mountain roads, geothermal areas, and the ocean can all catch the unprepared off-guard. Keep the following six safety guidelines in mind when planning your trip to Iceland.

1. Familiarise yourself with Iceland’s emergency numbers

The emergency number in Iceland is 112. You can dial it free of charge to reach emergency services like ambulances, rescue teams, and the police, and there is also a 112 app that can send your information to emergency services at the press of a button.

2. Follow updates on Safetravel.is Icelandic weather is infamously fickle, and extreme weather is not uncommon. In wintertime, high wind speeds and snow can frequently limit visibility. Safetravel.is offers up-to-date road condition maps, weather alerts, and plenty of helpful tips and information on the best and safest way to travel around the country. There’s an app for that, too. It’s well worth downloading and checking regularly throughout your travels.

3. Be extra careful when visiting geothermal areas

The water in geothermal areas can reach temperatures upward of 100°C. Falling in or slipping can result in severe burns. Safe paths are clearly marked, so stick to them, and never walk on ground that is steaming.

4. Keep a safe distance from the ocean

Sneaker waves – disproportionally large waves that encroach farther onto shore than regular waves – are frequent occurrences at the Reynisfjara and Kirkjufjara beaches in South Iceland. Sneaker waves are more powerful than people expect, and accidents have proven fatal in the past. Keep a safe distance from the water and observe nearby signs.

5. Stay on the path

Whether visiting a waterfall, a geothermal area, or hiking in the mountains, staying on the marked footpath is imperative. Respect when paths are closed and heed all signs. It’s closed for a reason, either to protect you or fragile nature.

6. Let someone know where you’re going

If you’re planning on hiking or hitchhiking, let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. You can also upload your travel plan to www.safetravel.is.

A world class exhibition on volcanoes and earthquakes surrounded by active volcanoes

The Lava Centre is situated at Hvolsvöllur on the South Coast of Iceland, surrounded by active volcanoes. It truly acts as the gateway to Iceland’s most active volcanic area.

The Lava Centre just received two Red Dot Awards, which cement its position as a world class exhibition.

LAVA Centre is the best place to learn about the new Fagradalsfjall eruption, with new exhibits explaining the eruption and new film footage in the volcano cinema.

7 FACTS YOU (PROBABLY) DON’T KNOW ABOUT VOLCANOES

1. Liberty, Equality, Fraternity... Volcanicity?

The 1783-4 eruption of Laki was the biggest eruption in recorded history. An estimated 42 billion tonnes of poisonous gases and dust darkened the skies. Haze from the eruption floated east as far away as India, disrupting the monsoon season and leading to drought and crop failures. The famine that hit Egypt in 1784, was a result of the eruption, and killed roughly one-sixth of its population. Back in Iceland, an estimated 20–25% of the population died from famine, and over half the livestock was poisoned or killed by giant hailstones. Food shortages contributed to social unrest across Europe and contributed to the French Revolution of 1789 that gave birth to western democracy.

2. And in second Place…

Iceland was also the site of the second biggest emission in recorded history: the 2014 eruption of Bárðarbunga. In just 6 months, Bárðarbunga produced enough lava to cover the island of Manhattan - 85km2

3. Enter the Volcano

In Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth, the heroes climb down a crater on the Snæfellsnes peninsula to find vast oceans filled with extinct prehistoric creatures. While an encounter with a herd of mastodons is unlikely, a trip to Þríhnúkagígur (Thrihnukagigur) still feels pretty Jules Verne. Þríhnúkagígur is the only volcano in the world

where you can descend into the magma chamber. Discovered in 1974 and opened to the public in 2012.

4. New Earth

Surtsey, Iceland’s most southern point was formed by a volcanic eruption at the bottom of the ocean and emerged from the water on November 14, 1963. It was immediately granted protection by law, and to this day, only scientists are allowed to go there, and even they have to get special permission. This means that we have been able to monitor how life settles on a brand-new land from the beginning, which has, of course, been invaluable to scientists.

5. SuperFresh Lava

Iceland has a third of the world’s fresh lava. ‘Fresh’ is a relative term that may need defining. When discussing Arctic Char, it’s best measured in hours. In geological time fresh lava means lava that’s less than five hundred years old. Iceland is full of these ‘Here’s one I prepared earlier’ landscapes offering snapshots of geological time and processes.

6. Icelandic volcanoes are on the move!

Due to changes in on the tectonic level of the earth, Iceland’s volcanoes are actually moving east. Veeeeeeeery slowly. If you visited Iceland 20 million years ago, the volcanoes would all have been situated in the West Fjords. Fifty million years ago, during the Eocene epoch, you would find our volcanoes living happily in Greenland, and 70

million years ago, our volcanoes would have been terrorising dinosaurs somewhere in Canada.

7. Iceland has a volcanic eruption every 4-5 years

The island has somewhere between 150-200 volcanoes, split into different volcanic systems. About 30 different systems are still considered “active” in Iceland, and 13 of them have erupted since the Viking Settlement in 874. The most recent eruptions were in Fagradalsfjall valley in 2021, which lasted 6 months, and nearby in Meradalir in 2022, which lasted only 3 weeks. These short-lived eruptions were the first on the Reykjanes peninsula in over 700 years!

Last Chance to See the Northern Lights

As we get closer to the season of midnight sun, locals and tourists alike are savouring every chance to view the aurora borealis as soon, nights won’t be dark enough for them to be visible. The northern lights are actually the results of sun flares caused by magnetic storms on the sun‘s surface. These flares send bursts of charged particles (electrons, ions, atoms) into outer space through the Sun’s corona.

If this burst is in the direction of Earth, these charged particles can cause northern lights to appear near the Earth’s poles. Oxygen and nitrogen particles in the Earth’s atmosphere can collide with charged particles from the Sun’s atmosphere.

This collision causes the Earth’s particles to get into a high-energy state, and when they return

to their normal state, they release a photon, causing them to light up. This light is a form of electromagnetic radiation, reaching the Earth along with radio waves. When billions of these collisions occur, the oxygen and nitrogen in the atmosphere emit enough light for the eye to detect them, resulting in bright green, white, red and purple colours to dance across the sky.

Seeing the lights is a magical experience, and we recommend seeking them out while you’re in Iceland. However, there are a few things every northern lights hunter should keep in mind. The northern lights aren’t a reliable attraction and seeing them can be a matter of being in the right spot at the right time. It’s not all down to luck, however, as there are a few things you can do to maximise your chances of seeing the ethereal lights.

Different ways to see the northern lights:

Going by coach:

Cheap and effective. A northern lights tour by bus or minibus is a good way to see the lights if you’re not too concerned about being surrounded by a lot of people and simply travelling by bus. Perhaps not the best time if you don’t see anything – but it’s the cheapest option to see the lights, and it gets the job done.

Going by boat:

A great experience regardless of lights. Going by boat is a very good choice for those who want to ensure they get something out of their tour even if no lights are found. Being out at sea and viewing the city lights from the water is in itself a great experience.

Top 8 tips for the northern lights

1 GET OUT OF TOWN

The city lights block the northern lights!

2 MAKE SURE IT’S DARK

Daylight and northern lights don’t go hand in hand!

3 MAKE SURE THE SKY IS CLEAR

The northern lights appear way above the clouds!

4

GIVE IT TIME AND BE PATIENT!

The northern lights don’t come out on demand – be patient and you might get lucky!

5 SIGHTINGS CAN NEVER BE GUARANTEED

So we’d recommend a tour that includes some great activity as well as northern lights hunt – so you won’t feel disappointed!

6 WEAR SOMETHING WARM

It can get seriously cold, especially when the sky is clear and you’re waiting for a long time.

7

8

KNOW YOUR CAMERA!

Taking photos with a flash won’t work. Ever. A tripod and long exposure are your friends!

ENJOY IT!

Lie down on the ground. Look up. Enjoy!

Going

by super-jeep:

Exclusive and thrilling. Going on a hunt for the lights with a specially modified superjeep is a thrilling experience that’s fun and exciting. Sights can of course never be guaranteed, but the off-road action of a superjeep makes for a great adventure, the lights are just an added bonus.

Book your northern lights tour now online or at the What’s On tourist information centre, at Laugavegur

NORTHERN LIGHTS PHOTOGRAPHY DO’s AND DON'Ts

DO have a relatively good camera with you that allows for easy and quick change of settings.

DON’T rule out taking a photo on your phone’s camera.

DO have your ISO set to at least 800 and your aperture as low as it goes.

DON’T forget your tripod. However little you think you move while waiting for your camera to take your picture, believe me, you always move and it’s enough to make your photos blurry.

DO keep your shutter speed anywhere between 5 to 30 seconds, although the optimal would be between 5 and 20 seconds (30 seconds is only for very faint lights, basically).

DON’T forget to plan ahead when booking your northern lights tour- finding a stable surface on a boat is difficult, and large group tours might make your photography session more difficult.

DO consider using continuous shooting, so that while shooting the lights, you don’t have to keep staring at them through your camera.

DON’T focus solely on your photographs and forget to be in the moment. You don’t see the northern lights every day!

If you need any more information, check out www.whatson.is or stop by the What’s On information office at Laugavegur 5.

HOW TO READ THE NORTHERN LIGHTS FORECAST

The northern lights forecast can be found on en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/aurora/, but it is a little hard to decipher if you’ve never seen it before. Our handy-dandy guide should make things a little bit easier.

Going on a tour?

There are many tours taking you far from the bright city lights for a better chance of seeing the aurora. These tours will be cancelled if there is no chance of seeing the lights. All major operators can be trusted to do this, first of all, because there is a high standard of professionalism in Iceland, but more importantly, because they lose money if they take you out needlessly – most of them promise to take you out again for free if you don’t see anything.

The Colours White means no clouds while dark green means very cloudy. The different shades of green then mean more, or less, cloudy.

The numbers

The numbers are a combination of how likely it is for the lights to be active and how active they will be. Don’t be discouraged if the number is low, it’s actually very rare for the number to be higher than five. Also, take the scale with a grain of salt; a low number doesn’t mean that they won’t come out or won’t be impressive, and a high number isn’t a guarantee that they will be glorious all through the night.

HURRAY FOR SUMMER!

You wouldn’t think summer would come to a country as far north as Iceland as early as April. But Sumardagurinn Fyrsti (The First Day of Summer) is a public holiday every year on the Thursday after April 18, which in 2024 falls on April 25, giving schoolchildren and office workers a day off to welcome the season.

Wait. April?

While April is decidedly a spring month even in more southern climes, and there may still be snow on the ground in Iceland, it is the month when summer is celebrated.

The tradition dates back to the old Icelandic calendar, in which the year is divided into two seasons – winter and summer. So, Sumardagurinn Fyrsti is, in fact, the first day of the Norse month of Harpa, the start of the summer season.

Harpa is the first month of the calendar. Since a person’s age was measured by how many winters they had lived (or survived), its arrival meant you could tell people you’re a year older. Counting winters is still how Icelanders determine the age of horses.

Freezing together

It may seem contradictory, but the superstition in Iceland is that if winter and summer “freeze together” – that is, if there is frost on the eve of Sumardagurinn Fyrsti – the summer ahead will be a good one, with an ideal mixture of sun and rain for crops to flourish.

While more urban-minded Icelanders today are less concerned with the weather from a farming perspective, we still pay attention to the weather conditions, looking for frost and hoping (usually foolishly) for Iceland to suddenly be graced with a Mediterranean climate in the months ahead. One can dream.

Any excuse for presents and a party

The arrival of summer has always been a big deal in Iceland, and it was often celebrated with a nice dinner and giving small gifts to children (known as summer gifts). These treats predate Christmas gifts by several centuries.

Today the holiday is marked by parades, with Scout troops and brass bands marching and Icelanders donning their shorts and t-shirts while looking out the window and sobbing. Well, the parades happen, but the attire and outlook of individual Icelanders may vary.

There are typically school-based events for kids and their families to get together and have fun. Some Icelanders go for an ísruntur (ice cream), while others sleep off the fun they had the night before –hey, it’s like a bonus Friday night on a Wednesday!

Pancakes for all!

Unfortunately, the weather gods rarely get the message that summer has arrived, so the temperature usually hovers somewhere between 0 and 5 °C on Sumardagurinn Fyrsti. If that’s too cold for heading outside to watch a parade, just stay in and eat pancakes.

Iceland’s crepe-like pancakes, served with jam and whipped cream, are a classic First Day of Summer treat.

Gleðilegt sumar!

MarinaHotel

Geirsgata

Spicing up the Harbour

WE ARE PROUD TO BE COUNTED AMONG THE BEST DINING EXPERIENCES IN REYKJAVIK.

Hafnartorg Gallery welcomes you to over 30 stores and restaurants in the downtown harbour district, with some of the best food and wine Iceland has to offer. Happy Hour every day from 15 to 18.

Let’s Celebrate March in April

Reykjavík’s annual celebration of progressive design and innovation is back for the 16th year with a lineup of events, exhibitions and happenings to inspire the masses.

Organised by Iceland Design and Architecture, this year’s DesignMarch festival takes place from April 24-28, featuring more than 100 events or exhibitions showcasing the latest innovations in architectural design, fashion design, industrial and product design and more. And leafing through this year’s program makes it abundantly clear that all forms of design will be alive and well in 2024 Iceland.

ADJUSTING TO REALITY

As its name suggests, DesignMarch was originally held each year in March – adding some muchneeded colour to the lull between the holiday season and Reykjavík’s traditionally eventful summer festival season. However, when COVID-19 became a household name, the festival shifted to April or May, depending on the year.

Photo: Álfrún Pálsdóttir

“WHERE CHAOS IS THE NORM AND THE BALANCING ACT IS AN ART.”

The theme of the festival this year is “Where chaos is the norm and the balancing act is an art.” Designers, architects and creative thinkers push the boundaries of the possible with exciting exhibitions, events, workshops, guided tours and openings all over town during DesignMarch. Playing with materials, the interactivity of nature and technology, the use of discarded raw materials and new creative solutions for society are among the things that see the light of day.

TALKING DESIGN

In addition to exhibitions and pop-up events, DesignMarch is an opportunity for the public to engage in discussion about design and the importance of innovation and sustainability with designers from Iceland and around the world.

The festival’s signature event, the international conference DesignTalks kicks off DesignMarch on Wednesday, April 24th in Harpa. This year’s main focus is on global imbalances and extremes. Moreover, the abundance of information, the lack of raw materials, the possibilities of the local environment, reconstruction, the global family and inner peace will be the focal points at the event. In this seductive, magical world, anything is possible, but beneath the surface simmers the unexpected and, at times, the somewhat unpleasant.

EXPERIENCE DESIGN

This year 100+ exhibitions and events are happening in nearly as many locations throughout the city. Check the full program on DesignMarch.is and plan to take in the abundance of innovation and inspiration on display this April.

Photos: Álfrún Pálsdóttir

THE ICELANDIC PENIS MUSEUM

The internationally renowned penis museum is the only one of its kind in the world and contains the world´s largest and most varied phallic collection.

Artisan coffee, craft beer and penis waffles.

7 Things to Know About the Icelandic Horse

First things first: It’s not a pony!

Yes, Icelandic horses stand, on average, 135-145 cm to their withers. And, yes, that’s well within the parameters of a “pony” (read, anything shorter than 147 cm). But they’re horses, plain and simple, because, well, Icelanders say so.

Squat, muscular, and built to withstand the elements, the Icelandic horse is the embodiment of how Iceland likes to view itself: small but mighty.

They’re very friendly

The Icelandic horse has earned a reputation at home and abroad for being easy-going and friendly. Like well-trained dogs. Which is funny considering how impolite some Icelanders can be – the language doesn’t even have a word for “please.”

Their temperaments can be attiuted to nature, since their genetics are so protected (more on that later), or nurture, since Icelanders tend to treat their beloved horses like members of the family. So their

relaxed attitudes may just be a result of the horses’ relaxed lifestyles.

They have a fancy walk

The Icelandic horse is also unique for being the only breed in the world that can perform five gaits (ways of walking). Other breeds can only perform three or four.

The three common horse gaits are walk, trot, and canter, but the Icelandic horse can also pace and tölt. Tölt is a four-beat lateral gait that’s entirely unique to the Icelandic horse. It’s a sped up version of walking, but much more impressive as the horses lift their front legs up high, with only one hoof touching the ground at any time.

Tölt is a very useful gait for Iceland’s often uneven ground, providing a steady ride. It was presumably the gentlest on the riders’ backside back when horses were the main mode of transportation.

WHAT’S ON

That said, not all Icelandic horses can tölt, and those that can are usually trained to do it properly. So when you take a riding tour, be sure to ask for a horse that can tölt so you get to experience a truly unique trait of the Icelandic horse.

They’re guaranteed purebred

Following an unsatisfactory attempt to crossbreed Icelandic and oriental breeds, Iceland’s Viking parliament moved to prevent degradation of their horses’ genes by forbidding horse imports to Iceland as far back as the year 982.This is the kind of thing you can do when you live on an island.

That means Iceland’s horses have been purebred for over 1000 years. As a result, there are also remarkably few livestock diseases in the country –and authorities keep it that way by even prohibiting riders bringing their own saddles or riding boots with them to Iceland.

The Icelandic horse’s forefathers first arrived with Viking settlers from the British Isles, between 860 and 935 AD. While they’re known ancestors of Shetland, Highland and Connemara ponies, they also have some genetic similarities to the Mongolian horse, which arrived in Scandinavia through Russia.

They can never come home again

They’re part of Iceland’s heritage

Icelandic horses feature heavily throughout the country’s history books. In the Book of Settlement of Iceland, chieftain Sela-Þórir established his settlement at the place where his mare Skálm decided to rest. Meanwhile in Hrafnkel’s Saga, Njál’s Saga, Grettir’s Saga, and others, horses play important roles in fights, as status symbols, and as plot devices. For example, when the epic hero Gunnar á Hlíðarenda falls to the ground when his horse trips he looks at his beautiful country and decides to stay rather than be outlawed, which ultimately leads to his death.

No, Icelandic horses don’t spend their days reading Thomas Wolfe, rather those same restrictions that prevent the import of other breeds from abroad also apply to any Icelandic horse that leaves the island. They can’t return to Iceland.

As a result, Icelanders participating in international riding competitions never take their best horse along, since they will likely sell it before heading home. The crème de la crème of Icelandic horses are kept in Iceland to compete domestically or breed.

In Norse mythology, the most famous equine is, of course, Óðinn’s eight-legged steed Sleipnir. Icelandic horses have the standard four legs, but it can look like eight when they’re zipping along at flying pace.

You can ride one any time

Possibly the best thing about the Icelandic horse from a visitor’s perspective is that you can ride one just about any time. There are riding centres all over the country offering riding tours so visitors can experience Iceland’s uniquely beautiful nature from the back of Iceland’s uniquely wonderful horses.

Thanks to their aforementioned temperament and size, the Icelandic horse is ideal for inexperienced riders taking a shorter tour, and their smooth gaits make them comfortable for more experienced riders looking to spend a whole day in the saddle.

Book your horse riding tour on

Fun & lively Mexican restaurant in Reykjavik

Mexican fiesta with Icelandic seafood and lamb

We’re loco about tacos, tostadas, fajitas, quesadillas and other Mexican delicacies, made with fresh Icelandic ingredients.

Find us at:

7 FUN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN REYKJAVÍK

Reykjavík is an amazing place to travel with kids at any time of year. It’s bursting with colourful houses, squares and parkettes, and interactive museums that encourage young (and old) imaginations to flourish.

Here are a few of our favourite things to do with kids in Reykjavík.

Soak up some culture

We’re of the opinion that you’re never too young for museums. Reykjavík has a lot to choose from, but those that we’ve found to be most kid-approved have an interactive element or two.

The Maritime Museum will teach the whole family about Iceland’s fishing tradition from the olden days up to modern times, while allowing kids to dress up like fishermen, go on a scavenger hunt through the exhibit, and try their hand stacking crates of fish with a forklift.

The Settlement Exhibition Reykjavík 871±2 is another family favourite. Built around the remains of a Viking longhouse excavated smackdab in the middle of Reykjavík, the museum tells the story of Reyjavík’s settlement (in the year 871, give or take

a couple years) with interactive screens to learn more about the rocky remains. There’s also a room where kids can dress as Viking settlers and play old games.

Also great for families travelling with younger members are the Árbær Open Air Museum, with its turf houses and olden-day charm, and the National Museum of Iceland, which has a room for families to enjoy.

Meet the ducks

Reykjavík’s central pond, Tjörnin, is home to a healthy population of ducks, geese and swans, in part thanks to its proximity to Vatnsmýri, a protected wetland and bird sanctuary, to the south. A stroll around the pond is a great way to spot the pairs of ducks floating around and doing their thing.

Feeding bread to the ducks is frowned upon – and not allowed at all over the summer when ducklings arrive – but if you happen to have frozen peas or birdseed in your pocket, feel free to toss that for your new beaked buddies.

Expect to see mallards, gadwall, greater scaup, tufted ducks and teal, plus greylag geese and

swans. There’s also a sign on the north end of the pond (by City Hall) with descriptions of some birds you might spot in the area.

Go for a dip

Iceland’s thermal pools are good for swimming laps and lounging around in, but they’re also tons of fun for kids. Many locations have kids’ pools, with fountains and slides for the littlest ones, and bigger kids will get a thrill out of the bigger slides with their twists and turns.

Just remember: shower with soap before suiting up and jumping in.

Ride a horse

Even if you’re not a family of avid equestrians, you can enjoy a day on horseback in Iceland. Icelandic horses are known for their calm and friendly nature, making them perfect for inexperienced adults or children to ride – plus they’re shorter than horses you find in other parts of the world, so climbing into the saddle is less intimidating an experience.

Always check the minimum age requirements before booking a riding tour, but some will welcome kids as young as 7-years old. It’ll be an unforgettable experience for kids of all ages.

Hit the high seas

Introduce your kids to whales while in Iceland. A number of whale watching tours depart from Reykjavík’s old harbour year-round, taking you out on Faxaflói Bay for a chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises.

There’s a real thrill in the hunt, and the excitement onboard goes through the roof at the sight of a humpback’s mighty fluke slapping the water. Go later in the spring or during the summer to also see puffins, which are not the most graceful of birds –kids and adults will get a laugh as they crash-land on the water’s surface.

Kids that don’t have the patience (or the stomach) for a three-hour tour might opt for a visit to Whales of Iceland, where they can come face to face with the true scale of the gentle giants of the sea, learn about whales and play on the orca-themed climbing structure.

Go inside a glacier

For an activity that your kids will be ooh-ing and ahh-in over long after you’ve departed Iceland, take them inside a glacier. A tour atop Langjökull glacier and into a man-made tunnel dug into it a few years back is a suitable adventure for the whole family. Those travelling with adventurous kids 6-years or older are also able to take a tour of the natural ice cave in Katlajökull glacial tongue, part of the glacier covering the mighty Katla volcano.

Don’t feel like schlepping to a real glacier? Perlan has brought the ice cave experience to Reykjavík. Just catch a shuttle to the glass-domed building on Öskjuhlíð to visit Perlan’s Ice Cave and Glacier Exploratorium, the world’s first indoor ice cave. There’s also an ice cream parlour and cafe at Perlan, which you definitely won’t find atop a real glacier.

Visit Laugardalur

If it’s a nice day to spend outdoors, there are few better places to be than in Reykjavík’s Laugardalur neighbourhood. Take the kids to the Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo to meet Icelandic farm animals, plus foxes, seals and reindeer. Let them run wild and jump on the air trampoline in the park’s expansive play area, and then wind down with a stroll through Reykjavík’s Botanic Garden. It’ll be a day well spent just outside the city centre.

If you’re spending a day or two exploring Reykjavík’s museums and swimming pools, consider buying the Reykjavík City Card. Available for 24hr, 48hr, and 72hr periods for kids and adults, it gives you access to museums, swimming pools, public transport, and more at one low price.

National Gallery of Iceland Fríkirkjuvegur 7

The House of Collections Hverfisgata 15

Resistance 3.2.2023 — 26.3.2028

Sara Björnsdóttir (1962) Ávextir / Fruits, 2000, LÍ 6210

Grab Your Popcorn, Stockfish is back

Calling all cinephiles! The Stockfish Film Festival returns to the iconic Bíó Paradís for its 9th annual celebration of up-and-coming arthouse films from Iceland and beyond.

For ten days, from April 4 until April 14, the festival will screen a carefully curated selection of awardwinning films that would otherwise be unavailable to Icelandic audiences.

In addition to offering a lineup of stellar films –including Goodbye Julia (AR), Art College 1994 (ZH, EN), Four Daughters (AR, FR, EN), and The Burdened (AR) – the festival runs a short film competition for up-and-coming creators to showcase their work, and maybe win some accolades (and cash prizes) in the process. This year, Icelandic filmmakers were invited to submit short films in four categories: fiction, documentary, experimental and artistic music video projects.

More than an opportunity to watch world-class cinematic offerings, Stockfish’s Industry Days also give aspiring filmmakers and the general public the chance to learn more about the craft directly

from those working in the industry in Iceland and around the world. In previous years, Industry Days participants have benefitted from the insight of the likes of French film development consultant Isabelle Fauvel, Norwegian director and writer Mona J. Hoel, and Canadian film editor Justin Oakey, among many others. BAFTA-nominated writer and director Tina Gharavi will lead this year’s Writer’s Lab.

The Stockfish Film Festival launched in 2015 as a reincarnation of the late Reykjavík Film Festival –not to be confused with the Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF) – which had been established in 1978. A collaboration between the Icelandic Film Centre, the Film Directors’ Guild of Iceland, the Association of Icelandic Film Producers, the Society of Women in Filmmaking, the Icelandic Actors’ Guild, the Icelandic Cinematographers’ Society and the Icelandic Dramatists’ Union, Stockfish’s modus operandi is to create an atmosphere in Reykjavík that will encourage increased collaboration between domestic and international film communities.

Stay up to date with announcements and buy your festival pass at StockfishFestival.is

GO SKIING!

Northern lights, snow, and frozen waterfalls. There are many reasons to enjoy Iceland in wintertime. One reason stands out: skiing.

Iceland is a world-class destination for skiing enthusiasts. The best thing about going skiing from Reykjavík? The slopes are only a short drive away from Reykjavík city centre. And good news for beginners, there are almost no trees. Happy skiing!

BLÁFJÖLL

Bláfjöll is a popular ski area, conveniently situated just half an hour outside of Reykjavík. It’s the largest ski resort in Iceland, with runs of varying difficulty levels covering a total of 15 km. The slopes are wide and well-maintained. The longest is 2.5km and has an elevation difference of 240m. The most difficult is 700m long and has an elevation difference of 200m. With a ski rental and a ski school located on-site, you will find everything you need! Depending on the weather and snow conditions, the season runs from January through May. In addition to the downhill routes, Bláfjöll also has cross-country skiing courses.

SKÁLAFELL

Skálafell ski area is located 25 minutes east of Reykjavík, and has four ski lifts. With seven kilometres of slopes and elevations between 380m and 700m, it has great opportunities for

downhill skiing and snowboarding in addition to cross-country skiing tracks. Skálafell is open during weekends from late January until the middle of April.

HOW TO GET THERE

Bláfjöll shuttle: The shuttle goes to Bláfjöll every afternoon during weekdays and around noon on the weekend, returning approximately five hours later. The shuttle makes a few stops along the way but for skiers in the city centre, go to the N1 petrol station on Hringbraut, close to BSÍ. For the schedule and prices, go to www.skidasvaedi.is

By car: Take the ring road (route 1) direction east. about 10 km after passing the last gas station in the capital area. there will be a sign on the righthand side of the road that says “Bláfjöll”. Follow the road for 10 minutes or so and you’ll arrive at your destination.

For information on opening hours and skiing conditions, go to www.skidasvaedi.is

OPENING HOURS

Bláfjöll

Mon-Fri: 14-21

South Area: 17-20

Sat-Sun: 10-17

Skálafell

Sat-Sun: 10-17

Bláfjöll

A ofsource health

Thermal swimming pools

Children (0–15* years) Free

Hot tubs and jacuzzi

Young people (16-17 years)* 210 kr.

Adults (18 years and older) 1.330 kr.

Senior citizens aged 67 and over** Free

Saunas, steambaths

The place to meet locals

Thermal pools and baths in Reykjavik are a source of health, relaxation and pureness. All of the city´s swimming pools have several hot tubs with temperatures ranging from 37˚ to 42˚C (98˚–111˚F). The pools are kept at an average temperature of 29˚ C (84˚ F)

Ridi n g wit h E l dhesta r

Would you like to experience something different?

HORSES & HOT SPRINGS

Experience a variety of scenery and excellent riding trails.

Tour 3C

SOFT RIVER BANKS

This is a tour for the experienced rider! Who would not like to ride in an extraordinary environment?

Tour 3B

ICELANDIC DIVERSITY

Get in touch with Icelandic nature on horseback and taste the treasures of the nearby sea.

Tour 2G

A GUIDE TO READING THE SAGAS OF THE ICELANDERS

The Sagas of the Icelanders, written in the 12th and 13th century and telling the stories of the early settlers of Iceland from the 10th century, are an amazing treasure trove of historical knowledge about the early years of settlement in Iceland. Better yet, they’re also impressive examples of literary excellence that still hold their own when it comes to enthralling storytelling.

The sagas might be several centuries old and originate in a society with completely different values to our own, but the stories they tell are universal and timeless. Just like modern literature, they deal with love, loss, honour, adventure and everything in between. If you want to start reading the sagas but you’re just not sure where to begin, here’s our guide to reading the them.

IF YOU LIKE ROMANCE NOVELS AND SOAP OPERAS – START WITH

LAXDÆLA SAGA

Laxdæla is the thrilling story of bonds of friendship torn asunder for the love of a woman. The love triangle of the formerly inseparable friends Kjartan and Bolli, and the beautiful and clever Guðrún has far-reaching consequences in this heartwrenching story of honour, destiny, love and betrayal. Will Guðrún follow her heart or her pride? Are they all mere pawns of fate? Will her efforts to overturn destiny prove fruitful… or fatal?

IF YOU’RE A FAN OF LEGAL DRAMAS AND GREEK TRAGEDIES – START

WITH

BRENNU-NJÁL’S SAGA

Njála, as this saga is affectionately known, is the most revered of all the sagas in Iceland and its main character, Gunnar of Hlíðarendi, is probably the most idealised hero in all Icelandic literature. Familial obligations, honour and, most importantly, love, throw him, his best friend Njáll and everyone they hold dear into a whirlwind of theft, lawsuits, murder and punishments. His fate is marked from the moment he lays eyes on the woman he loves, and not even Njáll’s sage advice can save him. As an added bonus, Gunnar’s wife, Hallgerður, happens to be arguably the best female character in all medieval literature.

IF YOU LIKE ACTION MOVIES AND ADVENTURE STORIES – START WITH

EGIL’S SAGA

Egil ’s saga tells the story of the fascinating antihero Egill Skallagrímsson and his adventurous travels all over the north of Europe. A fierce fighter and clever poet with severe anger management issues, Egill’s saga weaves together the stories of the first time he killed a man (at the tender age of 7), his impending beheading thwarted by some seriously great poetry, and a drunken feast turned massacre (where our hero at one point cuts off a man’s head before vomiting down his neck), to name a few.

IF YOU’RE INTO FANTASY – START WITH

VÖLSUNGA SAGA

Völsunga saga has it all, dragons, sleeping beauties, magical swords, revenge and a dash of incest. It’s basically Game of Thrones for the 13th century! It’s the story of the

If you aren’t completely sold yet, there’s also the story of Egill in his old age, plotting mischief involving his treasure. He wanted to throw his silver in the air at a parliament session, and sit back and watch people fighting over it. When those plans were thwarted, he decided to bury his treasure, creating the legend of Egill’s silver.

WELCOMESFJALLKONANYOU!

Our menu offers a selection of traditional Icelandic delicacies with a modern twist and world dishes made with Icelandic produce. Try our amazing desserts made with Icelandic candy.

Stop by for snacks & drinks, lunch, weekend brunch or dinner.

Book your table:

Tel. +354 555 0950

fjallkona.is

THE SITUATION ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA

The most recent volcanic eruption started north of Grindavík, on February 8. Magma continues to accumulate beneath Svartsengi, the area is in close proximity to the Blue Lagoon. If you are planning to visit the Blue Lagoon, we recommend staying updated in case of a change of situation.

The Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland has been quite active in terms of volcanic eruptions recently. Here are some key points about the recent volcanic activity:

On December 18, 2023, the peninsula experienced its fourth eruption in under three years. The eruption was unusual compared to the previous three. Within two hours of earthquake swarms, it began spewing out 10 times more lava per second than any of the past eruptions at their peaks. The fissure created during this eruption expanded to an astonishing 2.5 miles in length within minutes. This volcanic event has captured global attention due to its rapid onset and the threat it poses to a nearby town.

On the morning of January 14, another eruption occurred, much closer to Grindavík than the previous eruption. A fissure opened on both sides of a recently erected protective barrier on the north side of the town. Four hours after the eruption began, a second fissure opened even closer to town, and lava from that fissure eventually destroyed three houses on the edge of Grindavík.

At the time of writing, the most recent eruption was on February 8. Please note that this possible eruption differs highly from previous eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula, which were very “touristfriendly.” The ongoing eruptions have already led to the loss of property and homes for the citizens of Grindavík. The area is evacuated and locked down. The rest of Iceland is not affected by these events and is safe to travel. The airport in Keflavík operates normally and flights are unlikely to be affected, even in case of another eruption.

Please keep yourself informed during your travels in Iceland and exercise common sense.

Good resources in English are:

• Daily news: Icelandreview.com

• Official travel warnings: safetravel.is,

• Icelandic Road Administration: road.is,

• The Icelandic Met Office: vedur.is

• Website of the Department of Civil Protection (https://www.almannavarnir.is/english/).

road.is

almannavarnir.is vedur.is

safetravel.is

REYKJAVÍK sights to see

Reykjavík sightseeing has something for everyone! The city is filled with things to do, places to go, and stuff to see, but some things are just a little bit more important than others.

Check out the map in the centre of the magazine to find the exact location of these Reykjavík sights.

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA Hallgrímskirkja

church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. It’s the largest church and the 6th tallest architectural structure in Iceland. The church tower 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, Guðjón Samúelsson, designed it to resemble the basalt lava column flows of Iceland’s landscape. Construction started in 1945 and was finished in 1984.

PERLAN Standing at 25m, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings. Built on top of the city’s hot water tanks, Perlan is known for its unique architecture. Inside Perlan, you can visit Wonders of Iceland, an exhibition spread over multiple levels. A visit to a real ice cave, planetarium shows, exhibitions on Iceland’s history, glaciers, volcanoes, and water, and a spectacular 360° viewing platform are all included in a ticket. On the top floor, there is a restaurant and coffeehouse for guests in need of refreshment. Surrounding Perlan is the Öskjuhlíð area, one of the many green spaces in Reykjavík, perfect for a walk on a sunny day.

TJÖRNIN Tjörnin (The Pond) is the heart of the city centre and offers some of the most amazing views in Reykjavík. There is no 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, geothermal water is pumped in to defrost an area for the birds and feeding them is a popular family pastime all year round. Those who can handle the cold take to the lake on ice skates.

AUSTURVÖLLUR When the sun is shining, Austurvöllur is the place to be. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants, this public square is a popular spot for locals to dine outside, soak up some sunshine or recline on the grass with picnics. In fact, whatever the season, Austurvöllur is the place to be. It’s used for celebrations on holidays, and in December, the city’s biggest Christmas tree is located there. Due to its proximity to The House of Parliament, Austurvöllur is also a popular gathering spot for political protesters. At the centre of it all stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the renowned figure who is credited with leading Iceland to independence.

HLEMMUR The Hlemmur bus terminal has been a city centre fixture for decades – although the reason for its popularity has changed. It was transformed into a food hall a couple years back, and it’s difficult to imagine Hlemmur square without it. The food hall attracts a fun crowd, and the place is booming! With Neapolitan pizza, LA-style tacos, gourmet burgers, gelatos, and specialities from the Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded Skál, there’s something for everybody!

HARPA The whole 28,000m2 of Harpa stand at the edge of Reykjavík Harbour. It houses Iceland’s biggest concert hall, suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events, a conference centre with meeting facilities and in-house catering, as well as a couple of fine restaurants. Harpa also hosts promotions, plays, and public events. Harpa was designed by a Danish firm in cooperation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist, and opened to the public in 2011.

THE OLD HARBOUR Though it’s the oldest harbour in its original form, Reykjavík’s Old Harbour is no longer the busiest for freight. Instead, it’s an oft-visited area where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals, and tour operators. You will also find numerous whale watching companies willing to take you out to sea on unforgettable excursions. The area is filled with excellent restaurants (pizza, seafood, burgers, etc.) and cafés. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty, and there are plenty of interesting activities to check out.

THE SUN VOYAGER A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to downtown Reykjavík. The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and is an ode to the sun. It serves as a reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland. The Sun Voyager looks its best when the sun is setting, at whatever time that may be. The unforgettable view of the sculpture with a backdrop of the ocean and Mt. Esja is every photographer’s dream.

HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT Founded in 950 AD, Iceland’s Parliament, Alþingi, is the oldest extant parliament in the world! For centuries, the Parliament gathered in the open air (on the aptly named Þingvellir, Parliament Fields), but in recent years, the members of Parliament have met in Reykjavík. The House of Parliament is a modest classical building of hewn Icelandic dolerite, and it gives Austurvöllur square a dignified look. The Parliament garden behind the building is small but lovely in the summertime.

LAUGARDALSLAUG Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Icelanders’ favourite pastime is going swimming. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, located in Laugardalur valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, an outdoor children’s pool and a paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, a steam bath, gym, and a mini-golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day or a cold one for that matter. Right outside, you will find a hot dog stand where you can buy traditional Icelandic hot dogs.

is to present both historical and contemporary photography in an artistic, social, and cultural context, as well as to nurture public and scholarly interest in photography. The collection’s themes range from family photographs to photos from portrait studios, industrial and advertising photography, press photography, landscape

THE REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM

The Reykjavík Art Museum has three locations: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn. Hafnarhús serves as the museum’s institute of contemporary art, where new developments in art are explored through rotating exhibitions. An exhibition of paintings by well-known pop artist Erró is a permanent feature. Kjarvalsstaðir is devoted to one of Iceland’s most influential painters, Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval, and Ásmundarsafn is the former home and workshop of sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson.

In 2001, archaeological remains of a settlement-era hall were excavated, which was inhabited from 930-1000. North of the hall, two pieces of a turf wall were found, which were built before 871. These findings are the oldest relics of human habitation found in Reykjavík. An innovative, interactive exhibition gives an impression of what life was like in those times. Objects from the age of settlement found in central Reykjavík and on Viðey island are also on display.

art collection that mainly comprises 19th- and 20thcentury artworks. The Gallery possesses many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. There is also a considerable emphasis placed on contextualising Icelandic art internationally. The Gallery hosts exhibitions from both contemporary and historical artists, and an exhibition showcasing Iceland’s art history is currently on display in the House of Collections on Hverfisgata.

The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at the National Museum of Iceland. The museum was established in 1863, and it gives an insight into Iceland’s cultural heritage from the time of the settlement up to modern times. There’s a permanent exhibition of Icelandic history and culture from the settlement era on, as well as temporary exhibitions highlighting specific eras or aspects of Iceland’s cultural heritage.

Laxnes Horse Farm is a family owned and operated business with our horses being part of the family and treated as such.

We offer a variety of day tours, combo tours and daily private tours. Please visit our site www.laxnes.is for further information and frequently asked questions.

Our Tours

Laxnes Special

A trek on the hardy, sure-footed Icelandic horse is an experience to remember. Whether you are a beginner or expert, old or young, these friendly horses, with their alert and willing nature are indeed a pleasure to ride in their natural surroundings.

Laxnes Private Tour

The private tour is a variation of our Laxnes Special tour and will have daily departures by summer 2023. You´ll be able to tailor your tour time to up to two hours and enjoy the farm surroundings at your own pace.

Laxnes Combo Tours

Combine our Laxnes Special tour with a variety of different activities in one booking for a full day of adventure. Puffin or Whale watching or the Golden Circle combinations with our riding tours are just a click away on our site. www.laxnes.is

BEST WHALE WATCHING SPOTS AROUND ICELAND

Do you want to have a whale of a time? Then go on a whale safari while you’re in Iceland! The waters around Iceland are the natural habitat of these gentle giants, so this is the perfect place to spot them. Baleen whales are a migratory species, and most travel long distances to tropical waters in winter and back to polar regions in summer. The best season for whale watching in Iceland is, therefore, between April and October. Going on a whale watching tour and actively searching for whales is an exciting and unique experience!

Whale watching in the Capital Area

You don’t have to travel far to go on a whale safari, as Reykjavík offers good options for whale watching. Different whale watching companies have regular departures from the Old Harbour area. White-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises are seen year-round in Faxaflói bay, a large bay next to Reykjavík, stretching from Reykjanes to Snæfellsnes. In the summertime, there are regular sightings of humpback whales and minke whales. You can choose to go on a bigger boat with a refreshment bar, or on a small RIB. The bigger boats have snug inside areas that offer shelter from bad weather, but the small boats have the advantage that you can get very close to oceanic wildlife. At the ticket offices, you can ask for complimentary

motion sickness pills, but don’t worry, tours are cancelled if the waves are too high.

Whale watching outside the Capital Area

You can also see whales outside of the Capital Area. In wintertime, the fishing town Grundarfjörður is where it’s all at. The bay is filled with herring feeding on phytoplankton. Now, seeing breaching herring is probably not the reason why you travelled to Iceland. However, this herring aggregation attracts all kinds of cetaceans, like dolphins, porpoises, and most importantly, killer whales! Can you think of anything more spectacular than seeing a pack of killer whales swim by? There are also excellent whale watching opportunities in North Iceland. The town Húsavík is also known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, because of the many whales in its bay, Skjálfandi bay. Humpback whales, blue whales, minke whales, pilot whales, and sperm whales are often sighted. Because of the deep waters in the bay, there is also a higher chance of seeing rare species like the basking shark, the northern bottlenose whale, and the beluga!

Combo tours – whales and puffins

In summer, puffin colonies are found all around Iceland. The first small flocks arrive in April, and the last ones leave in September, but the best months to see puffins are between May and August. Most whale watching companies offer whale and puffin combination tours. For puffin spotting, it’s best to be on a small boat and to bring binoculars. Puffins are tiny, and the closer you can get to them, the better the experience will be! These puffin tours are possible from Reykjavík. Just off the coast of the city, puffins breed each year on three small islands. Next to puffins and whales, common sights during these tours include arctic terns and the great skua.

Whales of Iceland exhibition

Whales of Iceland is an exhibition in the Grandi area of Reykjavík. It showcases 23 man-made life-size models of whale species that occur in Icelandic waters, like a 25m long blue whale and a full-size sperm whale. It offers a great opportunity to see the actual sizes of these whales (they are even bigger than you think!) and to learn interesting facts about each whale at the same time by reading plaques and watching videos. Educational and fun!

COMMON SIGHTS

Minke whale: a small baleen whale measuring 7m to 8m in length, weighing between 5 to 10 tonnes. It’s black and grey, has a dorsal fin, and will live for 30 to 50 years. It’s not likely to breach, so look for its back and dorsal fin during a tour. Also called “stinky minkes” because they smell of rotten fish.

Humpback whale: a large baleen whale measuring 12m to 16m in length and weighing about 36 tonnes. It has long pectoral fins, a stubby dorsal fin, and a knobbly head. They are known for breaching, their high spouts of water, and for showing off their flukes as they go for deeper dives!

White-beaked dolphin: the most common dolphin in Icelandic waters. It is 2.5m to 3m in length and weighs up to 350kg. They are often spotted in big groups, sometimes hundreds together! They love playing, jumping out of the water, and splashing about.

Harbour porpoise: the smallest cetacean around Iceland. They are only 1.5m to 2m in length and weigh 55kg to 70kg. They are usually quite shy but sometimes jump out of the water and play with the whale watching boats. Book your whale watching tour on WhatsOn.is

Our ski resorts, Bláfjöll and Skálafell, are only 30 min drive from Reykjavík.

GO SWIMMING!

Whether you visit a thermal pool in Reykjavík, a luxurious spa, or a natural pool in the countryside, swimming in Iceland is a unique experience. Nothing beats relaxing in warm water while breathing in fresh cold air.

Vesturbæjarlaug

BEST KID-FRIENDLY POOL

Swimming pools are one of the most kid-friendly activities you can find in Iceland, so the short answer is – all of them! To be more specific, the centrally located Sundhöll has a great outdoor area, and so does Vesturbæjarlaug, but Árbæjarlaug is a hidden gem, a perfect stop if you’re going out of town anyway, and pairs well with a visit to the Árbær Open Air Museum.

BEST POOL TO CHAT WITH LOCALS

Locals love going to the pool, and chilling in a hot tub is a good way to connect to Icelanders. Often, Icelanders meet in the pool and use this time to chat and catch up on the latest developments. Good options for hanging out with locals are Vesturbæjarlaug, Seltjarnarneslaug, and Árbæjarlaug pools.

BEST POOL FOR SERIOUS SWIMMERS

Laugardalslaug is Reykjavík’s biggest pool and the best one for a long swim. It’s an Olympic-size swimming pool, used for recreational swimming,

Laugardalslaug

exercise, and competitions. The big indoor pool is also used for training and competitions. Laugardalslaug also offers plenty of hot tubs, cold tubs, and steam baths for relaxation after a healthy swim, and to top it off, a fitness centre and spa are located next to the pool.

BEST POOL FOR A DAY TRIP

Basically every town in Iceland has its own pool. Almost all of them are beautifully located next to mountains and overlooking fjords and the ocean. If you plan to make a day tour out of your pool visit, head to the Westman Islands and visit Sundhöllin Vestmannaeyjar on Heimaey island. The ferry ride out to the island is an adventure, and there is a great indoor pool, a large outside pool with hot tubs, and cool waterslides.

BEST LUXURY SPA

In need of pampering? You’ve heard of the Blue Lagoon with its milky blue waters and mud masks, but did you know a brand-new spa opened just 10 minutes by car from downtown Reykjavík? Located at the edge of the bay of Kópavogur, the pool offers amazing coastal views. Sky Lagoon boasts a modern approach to traditional Icelandic swimming culture, making it the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink, socialise, and soak in the sun.

SWIMMING POOLS IN REYKJAVÍK

WINTER OPENING HOURS

More info on www.sundlaugar.is

Árbæjarlaug (Tel. 411 4200)

Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-22

Dalslaug (Tel. 411 5650)

Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-22

Grafarvogslaug (Tel. 510 4600)

Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-22

Laugardalslaug (Tel. 411 5100)

Mon - Thu: 6:30-22 • Fri - Sun: 8-22

Vesturbæjarlaug (Tel. 411 4200)

Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-22

Breiðholtslaug (Tel. 557 5547)

Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-22

Klébergslaug (Tel. 566 6879)

Mon - Thu: 11-22 • Fri: 11-19 • Sat - Sun: 11-18

Sundhöllin (Tel. 411 5350)

Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 8-22

TASTY LOCAL CUISINE

By The Old Harbour

6 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ICELANDIC WOOL

unique to the island, modern day Icelandic sheep are also direct descendants of the livestock that arrived with settlers in the 9th century. As such, they boast some characteristics that have long since disappeared from their relatives in Europe. Like their ancient forefathers, the Icelandic sheep are double coated, with an outer layer of long, coarse hair called ‘tog’ that repels water, and a short, soft and fluffy undercoat called ‘þel’, which is a perfect insulator. This is a big part of what makes Icelandic wool –and the garments made with it – so special.

… but it’s not old fashioned

There have been innovations in Icelandic wool. For instance, the two coat layers used to be separated by hand (a very labour-intensive process) and used for different purposes. In the 1920s, however, quicker new methods of processing the wool were created and Iceland’s famed ‘lopi’ – consisting of the two coats spun together to produce strands that are simultaneously light, warm, tough and waterproof – was born.

It’s colourful Icelandic sheep have always been bred in a variety of colours, and some farmers even pride themselves on preserving specific colours. The result is Icelandic wool being produced in as many colours as there are sheep, with the most common colours

being black, white, various shades of brown and grey. Besides these classic “sheep colours”, lopi can also be found dyed in every colour of the rainbow.

It’s great for knitting

That double coat mentioned above gives lopi its dual-fibre structure, making it perfect for knitting garments that are warm, waterproof and light. Whether you intend to knit a scarf or try your hand at the intricate patterns of a famous Icelandic lopapeysa, lopi is ideal. Not only is it beautiful, it’s also easy to knit with (the loose-spun wool can be twisted back together if broken) and it felts easily. As any Icelandic child will tell you, lopi is scratchy right against the skin, so it’s best used for outer layers of clothing – unless you get your hands on some lambswool, that is.

It’s magical stuff

By “magical” we mean it’s self-cleaning, which is just about as close to magic as it gets for any parent trapped in an endless laundry cycle. Lopi garments need to be hand-washed, but it almost never needs to be washed. Thanks to the structure of the hair fibres, lopi doesn’t hold bacteria like

cotton or synthetic materials do. So the only time you might need to wash your woollens is when they get stained (which is also rare, since they’re fairly waterproof). So just air them out and call it a day. Another of lopi’s magic tricks – one we absolutely do not recommend trying indoors or while wearing the lopi in question – is that it doesn’t burn. It may light up if you put it right in a flame, but it will selfextinguish once you take it out. Amazing!

It’s versatile

Icelandic wool looks great just about any way you knit it. And if you don’t knit yourself, just check out the range of products Icelanders have made with their wool as proof of its versatility – and its beauty. You can find everything from simple hats and mittens to the colourful scarves and blankets by Vík Prjónsdóttir. Of course, the most popular wool garment in Iceland is the Lopapeysa, the classic sweater with intricate and unique patterns around the yoke. An infinite range of classic lopapeysur can be found at the Icelandic Handknitting Association, while Farmer’s Market boasts a fashion-forward take on the classic.

New in Town

Kokka Café

Laugavegur 47

A new coffeehouse opened up on the second floor of the home goods shop Kokka. Now you can finally enjoy a beautiful cup of coffee after shopping for some cool Scandi-style kitchen supplies just down below. What fits better on the first day of summer than lemonade? Kokka Café now offers a wide array of self-made lemonade, including yuzu, liquorice and rhubarb. They also have some tasty sandwiches available – a great hidden café in the midst of downtown Reykjavík!

Maika’i

Skólavörðustígur 3

Açai bowl lovers – attention! Since starting their business in 2019, Maika’i has built their own little açai bowl universe in Iceland and still remains one of the places to indulge in such a nutritious bowl on the island. Apart from their locations close to the Reykjavík harbour, the airport and a few gyms, they are also opening up a new place on Skólavörðustígur (The rainbow street). A perfect treat for a warm spring day!

Aroy Dee Thai Restaurant

Laugavegur 2

There can never be enough Thai places! This new cosy Thai restaurant just opened up in the heart of downtown Reykjavík. The owners actually import true Thai ingredients to Iceland to make sure the delicious food is truly authentic. We’re keeping an eye out, but this might be serious competition for all the other Thai places around town.

Indian Curry House

Vesturgata 12

The Indian Curry House has been a staple in Akureyri for some time now. Finally, we have our own version down here in Reykjavík now! In their take-away location in downtown Reykjavík, you can expect delicious Indian dishes like butter chicken, lamb thalichathu, and combo dishes for dinner. It’s the perfect place for a hearty meal after a full day of exploring the city.

Kokka Café

Aroy Dee Thai Restaurant

BEN FROST: SCOPE NEGLECT LIVE

APRIL 3 • IÐNÓ

Ben Frost is back after a 7-year hiatus with a new album! The Australian-Icelandic artist will introduce his latest work, “Scope Neglect,” with a concert at IÐNO on April 3. Collaborating with Greg Kubacki from Car Bomb and audiovisual artist Tarik Barri, Ben Frost extends his visceral sonic exploration. In the past, Ben Frost has produced the score for the Netflix sci-fi thriller series “Dark” and for the horror mystery show “1899”. Rex Pistols and AMFJ provide additional support in this live celebration.

REYKJAVÍK COCKTAIL WEEKEND EXPO

APRIL 3 • AT HARPA,

FLÓI VENUE

The Reykjavík Cocktail Weekend, Iceland’s largest cocktail festival, takes place from April 3rd to 7th! Organised by the Bartenders Club of Iceland the festival offers special cocktail menus at promotional prices. The grand kickoff occurs on April 3rd at Harpa with the Reykjavík Cocktail Weekend Expo, featuring the Icelandic Cocktail Championship and product presentations by leading spirit suppliers. Cheers!

REYKJAVÍK DEATHFEST 2024: SPRING SLAUGHTER

APRIL 5 • GAUKURINN

Instead of the traditional lamb slaughter around Easter, you can expect a different kind of “butchery” at the annual Reykjavík Deathfest in the iconic Gaukurinn bar. Metal bands from all over the world are attending this deathfest. Apart from Icelandic performers like Ultra Magnus and Mycoplasmic Genitalium Genocide, metal heads can also expect to witness Finnish death grind-staple Cumbeast or brutal death metal band Cytotoxin from Germany.

ANOUSHKA SHANKAR

APRIL 7 • HARPA, ELDBORG VENUE

British-American sitar musician Anoushka Shankar plays in Harpa with a newly assembled quintet, featuring tracks from her recently launched minialbum. The ensemble revitalises cherished gems from her musical heritage, including the Grammynominated live album “Between Us” from last year. After debuting in India in 2022, the quintet has earned acclaim as one of the finest ensembles throughout Shankar’s illustrious 28-year global career.

SNARKY PUPPY

APRIL 22 • HARPA, ELDBORG VENUE

After more than a decade of performing, the Texas collective Snarky Puppy garnered acclaim and five Grammy awards across diverse categories. Despite being labelled a jazz band, Snarky Puppy defies easy categorization, rejecting genres like fusion or jam. With up to 20 rotating members, the group embodies a fusion of American music with global influences. The ongoing Empire Central World Tour, reflects their remarkable journey since forming at the University of North Texas in 2004.

CHILDREN’S CULTURE FESTIVAL

APRIL 23-28 • NUMEROUS LOCATIONS

The Children’s Culture Festival is back. This year, the theme is democracy! In the span of six days, kids of all ages can expect numerous events all over Reykjavík. The best thing about it: all events are free of charge! The cultural event is accompanied by another festival called “Big Bang Festival”, where young music lovers can enjoy a variety of concerts in the Harpa concert hall! Bring your kids, good vibes and enjoy this family-friendly event in the heart of Reykjavík!

YOUNG SOLOISTS 2024 - ICELANDIC SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

APRIL 26 • HARPA, ELDBORG VENUE

The symphony concert features the winners of an annual competition in collaboration with the Iceland University of the Arts. The concert will be the biggest one yet for many of the young soloists and marks a significant moment in their musical journey. Under the baton of Finnish conductor Petri Sakari, a former chief conductor of the orchestra, the concert promises an exciting blend of classical masterpieces and contemporary compositions.

BILL BAILEY - THOUGHTIFIER

APRIL 28 • HARPA, ELDBORG VENUE

Comedian, musician and actor Bill Bailey is performing his brand-new live show “Thoughtifier” in Harpa. The British comedian has enjoyed success on the live stage for many years, with his sharp wit and classic sense of humour being celebrated. In an era where technology threatens human relevance, “Thoughtifier” is a celebration of our flawed humanity. Bill guides us through the whimsical, errorstrewn history of human thought, exploring how it can navigate the challenges of a changing world.

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

Paintings and installations by Þuríður Sigurðardóttir

For the past 20 years, Þuríður, also known as Þura, has been making innovative visual art that deals in various ways with the Icelandic landscape. From interesting perspectives on mossy rocks, icebergs, and mountains, Þuríður’s unique style blends naturalism and the abstract, giving you a whole new look on Iceland. Runs from September 30 - Spring 2024.

Laugarnestangi 70 • 105 Reykjavík

Tel: 553 2906

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN

At Hand

This new exhibition features works by Ásmundur Sveinsson and contemporary artists exploring traditional handwork practices.

Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893–1982) was one of the pioneers of Icelandic sculpture in the 20th century. The display celebrates Ásmundur’s engagement with materials and

showcase the integration of hand practices into their artworks.

Ásmundur’s upbringing in rural Iceland significantly influenced his creative approach, showcasing his genius and craftsmanship in diverse mediums. Curated by Becky Forsythe, the exhibition highlights a shared exploration of material possibilities.

Sigtún • 105 Reykjavík

Tel: 411 6430

GERÐARSAFN ART MUSEUM

Queen of Hearts – Sóley Ragnarsdóttir

Begins Apr 13

In her first solo exhibition in Iceland, artist Sóley Ragnarsdóttir features hyper-decorative paintings, sculptures, and custom-designed wallpaper. Queen of Hearts is a collaborative effort between the Gerðarsafn Kópavogur Art Museum and Augustiana Kunstpark & Kunsthal in Denmark. Ragnarsdóttir, born in Iceland and raised in Denmark, draws inspiration from her coastal surroundings in Thy, northwestern Jutland. Her unconventional works blur the line

and grandmother, transformed into expressive and decorative pieces that carry feminist and ecological undertones. The showcase invites viewers to delve into the intricate details and forget oneself in the sands of the present. After its debut at Gerðarsafn, the exhibition will travel to Denmark for the second part at Augustiana Kunstpark & Kunsthal in Sønderborg.

Hamraborg 4 • 200 Kópavogur

Tel: 441 7600

AURORA REYKJAVÍK

Catch the Aurora Borealis

All Year Round

There is perhaps nothing more magical than witnessing the beauty of a northern lights display. However, those unpredictable, ever dancing lights don’t always show up on cue – and fade away during the summer months. So, it is with great joy that we welcome Aurora Reykjavík – The Northern Lights Centre, where the northern lights are always on display. Aurora Reykjavík’s pull and ace up its sleeve is its fantastic 4k time-lapse film of the Aurora Borealis.

Aurora Reykjavík’s latest additions are virtual reality goggles featuring the world’s first 360° movie of aurora displays entirely shot in Iceland. If you can’t catch the northern lights yourself, this utterly realistic experience is definitely the next best option to witness the beauty of this truly amazing phenomenon. Capturing the northern lights with your own camera can be challenging, but at Aurora Reykjavík, you receive instruction by the experts: bring your camera and try the right settings at the Northern Lights Photo Simulator. In the exhibition, you will find an entertaining selfie booth – have fun looking all fabulous under the northern lights!

For more information, see www.aurorareykjavik.is.

Grandagarður 2 • 101 Reykjavík

Tel: 780 4500

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

Borealis – Steina

Begins April 6th

Steina’s video and sound installation, “Borealis” (1993), returns to the National Gallery after three decades, marking its first appearance since 1993. During this period, the Icelandic artist shifted her focus from the studio to the natural world, capturing field recordings of Arctic flora and flowing water in Iceland. The monumental scale of the projection, with each of the four screens towering nearly four metres high, immerses the viewer in a world of dynamic images and polyphonic sounds. Oscillating between clarity and abstraction, “Borealis” is hailed as “an ode to nature and its elemental forces.” Acquired by the National Gallery of Iceland, it resides in the Vasulka Chamber, dedicated to the study of new media art, named after artists Steina and Woody Vasulka, who generously contributed part of their archive to the museum.

Coincidentally, We See Abstractly

Begins April 6th

The exhibition unites three diverse artist groups spanning various generations and backgrounds. The first group features artists from the post-World War II era, who consciously expanded visual perception through abstract ideologies. Another group features artists with disabilities engaging in a powerful dialogue with their emotional and experiential worlds, expressing freely on the canvas. The third group consists of contemporary artists with formal education, exploring a broad spectrum, including abstract forms. The exhibition aims to blend these distinct artistic realms, challenging observers to perceive works in novel ways, fostering connections

between artists like Guðmunda Andrésdóttir and Ásmundur Stefánsson or Anna Hrund Másdóttir and Nína Tryggvadóttir.

Multipolar – Anna Rún Tryggvadóttir

Begins April 13th

Anna Rún Tryggvadóttir delves into the unseen forces of the Earth’s magnetism and its dynamic magnetic north in her geology studies. Her poetic exploration, depicted through drawings and sculptures in the exhibition, provides insight into our anthropocentric view of the world. The exhibition features a centrepiece referring to the seafaring culture of Icelanders and the fishing industry. The installation also showcases watercolours revealing the Earth’s magnetic pole positions over 16 million years, challenging conventional perspectives by altering the north’s positioning on maps and emphasising the subjective nature of cardinal directions in Earth’s vast, directionless expanse.

Iron, Flax, Coal, and Chalk: New Works by Þóra Sigurðardóttir

Begins April 13th

The exhibition seamlessly presents Þóra Sigurðardóttir’s recent drawings, prints, and assemblages, extending her enduring fascination with the grid as a foundational structure. The grid serves as a backdrop against which lines, marks, and objects interact, creating a captivating interplay between ordered geometry and natural randomness. Notably, the display features copper and aluminium plate etchings from artist residencies in Berlin and Venice, showcasing the artist’s mastery. Additionally, a series of paintings on raw linen explores the dynamic between order and chance, employing charcoal, graphite, ink, pencil, and

chalk. Central to the installation are architectonic steel structures with shelves and vitrines, housing a curated collection of found and sculpted objects, reflecting how the artist’s sensitivity is shaped by the natural world and reciprocally influences her creative responses.

Fríkirkjuvegur 7 • 101 Reykjavík

Tel: 515 9600

HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS

Flight from volcanic eruptions – Sketches and paintings by Ásgrímur Jónsson

Ends April 14th

Quite fittingly to recent times, Icelandic painter Ásgrímur Jónsson (1876–1958) also found the phenomenon quite interesting as volcanic eruptions reoccur in many of his works. In his art, he portrayed the natural disaster, depicting terrified individuals and animals escaping the deadly phenomenon. His own childhood experience of the Krakatindur eruption in 1878 influenced his interest in the morbid theme. The collection showcases his mastery in both oil and watercolour, with watercolours often evolving into larger oil paintings. The exhibited works provide insight into the boundary between imagination and reality, capturing human fear in the face of nature’s timeless forces.

Resistance

“Resistance” is an interdisciplinary

Ásgrímur Jónsson

FRESH ICELANDIC SEAFOOD

BARTENDERS´ CHOICE AWARDS BEST RESTAURANT 2022

• Grilled lamb prime

• Icelandic cod

• Best monkfish in town

• 37 Wines by the glass

exhibition at the National Gallery of Iceland, catering to all ages and merging visual arts with science. The showcased works explore resistance in both a general and physical context, symbolising opposition to consumption and essential action against climate change. Centred on the sustainability discourse, the artworks prompt contemplation of ethical issues surrounding efforts to enhance sustainability. Different themes, such as land, air, ocean, principles and play can be explored by the visitors. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on existence, nature, and personal choices, emphasising the reciprocal effects that contribute to a more sustainable life.

Hverfisgata 15 • 101 Reykjavík

Tel: 515 9600

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM KJARVALSSTAÐIR

Kjarval and the 20th Century: When Modernity Anchored

This exhibition showcases artworks by numerous Icelandic artists and Iceland’s most influential painter Jóhannes S. Kjarval, over the span of sixty years after the turn of the 20th century. During Kjarval’s lifetime, enormous changes shaped the Icelandic society, orchestrated by industrialization and travels abroad. Icelandic artists returned from Europe with fresh ideas in their minds, inspired for a shift in their artistic styles. When Modernity anchored depicts that paradigm shift in breaking away from naturalistic imagery to a more symbolism-oriented artstyle.

Borghildur Óskarsdóttir: Heed

The exhibition illuminates the prolific and diverse career, artistic philosophy, and six-decadespanning work of Borghildur Óskarsdóttir. Born in 1942,

Borghildur remains actively engaged in her artistic pursuits, as art seamlessly intertwines with her life. Her work, which resonates with the present, reflects a contemporary emphasis on reevaluating humanity’s impact on nature. Curated by Aðalheiður L. Guðmundsdóttir, the exhibition is a product of her research into Borghildur’s trajectory. The Reykjavík Art Museum was awarded a grant in 2021 for studying women’s roles in Icelandic art with the University of Iceland. This exhibition presents the second of three total displays.

Flókagata 24 • 105 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6420

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

The Making of a Nation Heritage and History in Iceland

The National Museum of Iceland’s permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation – Heritage and History in Iceland, is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the settlement to the present day. The aim is to cast light on the Icelanders’ past by placing the cultural heritage preserved by the National Museum in a historical context, guided by the question: what makes a nation? The exhibition includes about 2,000 objects dating from the Settlement Age to the present, as well as about 1,000 photographs from the 20th century. The exhibition is conceived as a journey through time: it begins with the ship in which mediaeval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home, and it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world.

Creative Hands

(Með verkun handanna)

The “Refill” cloths, old Icelandic needlework garments, are among the most significant Icelandic artworks of the past centuries

and were traditionally showcased in churches and people’s homes. The oldest pieces in the exhibition are dated before 1400, while the youngest cloths are from 1677. Exceptionally, six garments were borrowed from foreign museums, such as the Louvre in Paris, the National Museum in Copenhagen and the Rijksmuseum in Twente. This landmark exhibition will be the first time that all of these surviving art pieces will be shown in one place.

20 years of “Myndasalur”

- An archival exhibition

The recent exhibition in Myndasalur features the evolution of Icelandic contemporary photography at the National Museum of Iceland. First established in 2004, Myndasalur has been a beacon for artistic expression. This exhibition showcases the remarkable journey of photographers who’ve graced its halls over the past two decades. From portraits in rough landscapes captured by Agnieszka Sosnowska to the intriguing documentary photography of Jessica Auer, each image tells a story of Iceland’s contemporary photography artists. Embark on a visual odyssey through the lenses of Annie Ling, David Barreiro, and more, as they offer glimpses into the heart and soul of Icelandic life.

Creative Hands

EVENTS

Polish Life in Iceland –Research Exhibition in the National

Museum of Iceland

Poles make up the largest immigration group, with over 23,000 people living in Iceland. The National Museum of Iceland just began to collect narratives from Polish citizens in Iceland. The current exhibition features a fraction of the submitted answers and photographs, with quotes like: “I thought I landed on the moon, I was terrified, and I thought to myself: How will I walk on these stones in my high heels?” The ethnographic research will continue until the end of the year and will pave the way for further investigation of what it means to be a Polish Icelander.

From Mire to Metal

In the past, iron smelting from bog iron was performed in Iceland. The use of metallurgical furnaces called bloomeries were used to smelt iron throughout the Middle Ages. Thereafter the practice steadily declined until it was completely abandoned in the 17th or 18th century. The knowledge of this ancient craftmanship has since been forgotten to time, leaving numerous questions about the bloomery process unanswered.

For a long time, scientists have attempted to answer questions about bloomery in Iceland. How was bog iron processed? How were bloomery furnaces constructed, isolated, and ignited? What quality of iron could be produced from Icelandic bog iron?

Suðurgata 41 • 102 Reykjavík

Tel: 530 2200

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM

Árbær was an established farm well into the 20th century, and the museum opened there in 1957. Árbær is now an open-air museum with more than 20 buildings which form a town square, a village and a farm. Most of the buildings have been relocated from central Reykjavik.Árbær Open Air Museum tries to give a sense of the architecture and way of life and lifestyles of the past in Reykjavík and during summer visitors can see domestic animals. There are many exhibitions and events held at the Museum, which highlight specific periods in Reykjavik’s history. These include craft days, vintage car displays, Christmas exhibitions and much more. There is something for everyone at Árbær Open Air Museum.

Consumption - Reykjavík in the 20th century

The exhibition aims to show the huge and rapid changes that took place in consumption patterns in Reykjavík during the 20th century –to explore the factors that affected consumption, and how technical advances, government actions, wars, and events in Iceland and abroad influenced the daily life of the people of Reykjavík.

Kistuhylur 4 • 110 Reykjavík

Tel: 411 6320

AÐALSTRÆTI

The Settlement Exhibition

An open excavation where Viking ruins meet multimedia technology. Just below ground in downtown Reykjavík, this open excavation uncovers the city’s Viking Age history. Discovered during building work in 2001, these archaeological remains turned out to be the earliest evidence of human settlement in the city, with some dating to before AD 872. Careful excavation revealed a 10th-century hall or longhouse, which is now preserved in its original location as the focal point of the exhibition. Interactive technology immerses you in the world of the Reykjavík farm at the time of the first settlers, including information on how Viking Age buildings were constructed and what life was like in the hall. The Settlement Exhibition is part of Reykjavík City Museum.

Reykjavík

...The Story Continues

Family-friendly and informative exhibition about the development of Reykjavík, from farm to city. This new display is a direct continuation of The Settlement Exhibition, representing Reykjavík’s history from settlement to the present day. Visitors get an insight into the complex history and culture of Reykjavík through the development of house construction

Árbær open air museum

and planning with a stop at the oldest house in the city centre, Aðalstræti 10.

The admission is valid to both Aðalstræti 10 and The Settlement Exhibition in Aðalstræti 16.

Aðalstræti 16 • 101 Reykjavík

Tel: 411 6370

EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM

This is a museum in the heart of Reykjavík that houses the work of Iceland’s first sculptor Einar Jónsson. The museum contains close to 300 artworks spanning a 60-year career: carvings from the artist’s youth, sculpture, paintings and drawings. A beautiful tree-clad garden adorned with 26 bronze casts of the artist’s works is located behind the museum. The task of the museum is to collect, preserve and display the work of Einar as well as to conduct research on his life and art.

Hallgrímstorg 3 • 101 Reykjavík

Tel: 551 3797

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART

At Home in The Design Museum

The “At Home in The Design Museum” exhibition showcases 200+ art pieces of Icelandic design, part of the museum’s 5,000-artifact collection spanning from 1900 to the present. The three-year exhibition captures the essence of Icelandic design evolution. Emulating a home blueprint, the exhibition presents objects from different eras, echoing the diversity found in households. Furniture, tableware, books, and textiles offer a glimpse into the creative output of Icelandic designers within the last 100 years. A time capsule on Icelandic design.

Jewellery – The Plastform

Throughout history, humans have adorned themselves, expressing

tastes and social status through jewellery. Beyond aesthetics, jewellery holds emotional value and serves as a platform for personal expression. Icelandic designers Ingiríður Óðinsdóttir, Jóna Sigríður Jónsdóttir, and Helga Mogensen share a background in textile design and jewellery design. This collaborative exhibition, in partnership with the Textile Association, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024, showcases a fusion of art, culture, and craftsmanship, intertwining the past and present in a tapestry of creativity.

Garðatorg 1 • 210 Garðabær

Tel: 512 1525

NORDIC HOUSE

Wasteland Iceland

In their new exhibition “Wasteland Iceland” in the Nordic House, the Danish-Icelandic company Lendager tackles the challenge of minimizing daily waste in Iceland. Exploring local resources and industrial flows, the exhibition proposes creative ways to reuse materials in future projects.

“Wasteland Iceland” provides a visual and tactile experience of material experiments and innovations, reflecting over a decade of experimentation and a call for a sustainable revolution. The goal is to inspire critical discussions on urgency and sustainability across industries and institutions

Sæmundargata 11 • 102 Reykjavík

Tel: 551 7030

HAFNARBORG MUSEUM

Jónína Guðnadóttir – Tidemark

Ends April 9th

Jónína Guðnadóttir, one of Iceland’s most prominent ceramicists is celebrated for her unique utilitarian objects and independent visual language in diverse materials like concrete, glass, and clay. Starting

Museum of Design and Applied Arts

her career in the mid-1960s after studying both in Iceland and Sweden, Jónína broke ties with applied art, utilizing clay for independent works. Her extensive body of artworks has been long exhibited in Iceland and abroad since her first solo exhibition in 1968. Tidemark, curated by Aðalheiður Valgeirsdóttir spans works of her entire career, highlighting her significant contributions to the ceramics art sphere.

jewellery:object

– Sculpture for the Body

Begins April 6th

The latest exhibition, in Hafnarborg showcases the techniques of modern jewellery-making in Iceland. A diverse group of Icelandic artists, jewellers and goldsmiths present their sparkling creations. Among the artists are Anna María Pitt, Arna Gná, Ágústa Arnardóttir, James Merry, Hildur Ýr Jónsdóttir, Helga Mogensen, Katla Karlsdóttir (Katla Studio), Orr and Marta Staworowska. The exhibition is a part of DesignMarch 2024.

Strandgata 34 • 220 Hafnarfjörður Tel: 585 5790

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Stuart Richardson – Undiralda (Groundswell)

At the Undiralda exhibition, visitors will get to know photographer Stuart Richardson’s personal vision of the Icelandic landscape, where nature is

a source of both sadness and hope. The exhibition is based on Stuart’s master’s project at Hartford College of Art in the USA and consists of large prints on Japanese scroll paper, framed photographs, a series of short videos and a handmade book, printed on Japanese paper and bound in the traditional way. This is the first time that the work is shown in its entirety. The exhibition explores the idea of beauty in Icelandic nature with the aim of continuing different traditions in landscape painting and photography, whether through British landscape painters such as Richard Wilson or more recent Icelandic artists such as Jóhannes Kjarval and Georg Guðna Hauksson.

The Man Who Slept like a Flamenco Dancer

The Man Who Slept like a Flamenco Dancer is an exhibition by Daníel Perez Eðvarðsson at Skotið exhibition space. It explores festival culture, showcasing photographs from Andalusia, Spain, taken during the artist’s first winter there (20212022), and color photographs from the Þjóðhátíð festival in Iceland’s Westman Islands in the summer of 2023. The exhibition connects these subjects through the leitmotiv of “La Gioconda,” a photo of Ísabella Lilja referencing the Mona Lisa, suggesting a link between festival celebrations and religious references of Christianity. Daníel employs various media, including analog, digital, and polaroid photography, sound recording, and video, in his artistic creations.

Tryggvagata 15 • 101 Reykjavík

Tel: 411 6390

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS

Vitamin D

The Reyjavík Art Museums are breaking tradition with this new expansive exhibition, “Vitamin D”. Departing from the norm of inviting

prestigious artists, this exhibition features emerging fresh creators with ties to the Icelandic art scene. This is the best opportunity to see fresh faces and get an extra dose of creative energy, breaking free from old boundaries to quickly absorb the latest artistic trends. Museum experts have carefully curated the joint exhibition from submitted proposals from artists in 2023. All featured artists have never held a solo exhibition in a public art museum.

Gambit - Erró, Chronicler of Current Affairs

In the exhibition “Gambit,” artist Erró sees himself as a chronicler, documenting the turmoil of his time. Erró – also known as Guðmundur Guðmundsson is one of the best-known contemporary artist of Iceland. In his works, he portrays rulers, tyrants, and warlords with ridicule and parody, critically examining world history. Mixing contradictory image fragments, he challenges traditional narratives, exposes propaganda, and upends societal hierarchies. The exhibition includes paintings, collages, drawings, and prints from his sixty-year career, bearing witness to political realities from the 20th to the 21st centuries.

Tryggvagata 17 • 101 Reykjavík

Tel: 411 6400

REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM

We are Earth – We are Water by Heimir Freyr Hlöðversson

The video artwork “We are Earth – We are Water” provides a unique glimpse into nature’s sublime forms, blending the micro and macro through technological innovation. This dreamy visual exploration unveils ever-changing, unnoticed patterns, inviting viewers into the materials’ essence and their transformative processes.

Nature’s profound teachings on transformation, intrinsic to life’s cycles, take centre stage. The piece also underscores the contemporary reality of drastic natural transformations fueled by global warming. Tangible effects, from shrinking glaciers to erratic climates, raise awareness. Amidst the palpable shifts, a sense of powerlessness emerges, prompting reflection on how to address and prevent further global warming, creating a poignant narrative on our collective responsibility.

Grandagarður 8 • 101 Reykjavík

Tel: 411 6340

I8 GALLERY

Ragnar Kjartansson: Mother and Child, Gin and Tonic

Ends April 20th

“Mother and Child, Gin and Tonic,” Ragnar Kjartansson’s latest exhibition, marks his fifth showcase at i8 Gallery. The artist’s mediums seamlessly intertwine: paintings embody performance, films exude painterly qualities, and performances take on a sculptural nature. By depicting scenes from his studio and home, Kjartansson delves into the spectacular essence of painting. Though the works convey a serene atmosphere, they pulsate with life just beyond the visible characters. The artist has his works exhibited in museums all over the world.

Tryggvagata 16 • 101 Reykjavík

Tel: 551 3666

Ragnar Kjartansson

HÖFUÐSTÖÐIN

Höfuðstöðin is an art and culture centre that permanently displays the large-scale multi-sensory installation Chromo Sapiens by Shoplifter / Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir. Höfuðstöðin opened in 2022 and is the first self funded art center created by an Icelandic female artist around her own work, and raised over $100.000 on Kickstarter before its opening.

Chromo Sapiens is Shoplifter’s monumental, multi-sensory, largescale installation that debuted at the Icelandic Pavilion for the Venice Biennale in 2019, to worldwide critical acclaim. The installation consists of three caves made from Shoplifter’s signature material, synthetic hair extensions. The installation surrounds the viewer’s horizon with soundscapes from the Icelandic band HAM in each cave. Entering the installation as homo sapiens, you are invited to explore your inner landscape through the

stimulation of the senses, where you are the destination of the journey, and when exiting you have transformed into Chromo Sapiens.

THE ICELANDIC PUNK MUSEUM

The Icelandic Punk Museum is located at Bankastræti 0, an underground location that served

as public toilets from 1930 to 2006. The museum honours the music and the spirit that has shaped musicians and bands to this day; people who dared to be different. Objects, photographs, videos, posters, etc. from roughly 1978 to 1992 are on display with texts in Icelandic and English, and the main music from the period is available to guests.

Welcome to Jómfrúin, the home of Danish smørrebrød in Reykjavik. It all began in 1888 with Oscars Davidsen’s highly praised smørrebrød restaurant in Copenhagen. An unbroken tradition of quality and Danish culinary culture for the past 100 years. Enjoy!

Open every day 11:00 - 22:00 | Lækjargata 4 | 101

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM

Reykjavík’s only open air museum, where you can stroll through the past and experience the way we lived. Fun, fascinating and full of surprises, this living museum takes you on a journey through time. Guided tours at 13:00 all year round.

Kistuhylur, Reykjavík

411-6304 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is

Hours: Daily 13-17

REYKJAVIK CITY LIBRARY

FREE ENTRY Looking for a place to hang out, browse the internet, get access to Wi-Fi or meet the Reykjavik locals? Then Reykjavik City Library is the perfect place to visit. Have a seat and dip into the latest magazine or relax while checking out their great selection of books.

Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavík

411-6100 | borgarbokasafn.is

Hours: Mon-Thu: 10-16, Fri 11-16

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM

An open excavation where Viking ruins meet digital technology. Just below ground in downtown Reykjavík, this open excavation uncovers the city’s Viking Age history. Discovered during building work, then carefully excavated, these remnants of the past are the earliest evidence of human settlement in the city.

Aðalstræti 10 & 16, Reykjavík | 411-6370 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is

Hours: Daily 10-17

REYKJAVÍK ... THE STORY CONTINUES REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM

The city’s oldest house, built in 1762 houses an exhibition detailing the history of Reykjavík, and the daily life of the people who inhabited it, continuing where the nearby Settlement Exhibition leaves off.

Aðalstræti 10, 101 Reykjavík 411 6300 | www.borgarsogusafn.is

EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM

A harbour museum exploring Iceland’s dramatic relationship with the sea. The survival of a nation depended on generations of brave fishermen heading into the unknown. Exhibitions and artefacts bring our ocean history to life.

Grandagarður 8, Reykjavík | 411-6340 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is

A museum with indoor and outdoor exhibitions dedicated to the work of Einar Jónsson Iceland’s first modern sculptor (1874-1954). The museum was built in the early 1900’s when Einar Jónsson offered all of his works as a gift to the Icelandic nation.

Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavík

551-3797 | www.lej.is

Hours: Tue-Sun 12-17

VIÐEY ISLAND

REYKJAVÍK

CITY MUSEUM

An island, where art, history and nature lie just beyond the city shore. The combination of stunning views, historical ruins and contemporary art pieces make Viðey island something special. Just a short boat ride takes you to another world. Ferry Schedule: Weekends only.

Viðey Reykjavik 411-6356.

www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is

WHALES OF ICELAND

An exhibition in Reykjavík consisting of 23 life-size whale models - fun to touch and explore. Learn more about whales with in-depth multimedia and interactive information displays, videos and audio guide in several languages mixed with soothing whale sounds and underwater ambient lighting.

Fiskislóð 23-25 , Reykjavík

571-0077 | www.whalesoficeland.is

Hours: Daily 10-17

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

REYKJAVÍK

CITY MUSEUM

Reflecting the contemporary, while archiving the past – this is Reykjavík’s home of photography. Reykjavík’s main photography museum offers an ongoing programme of contemporary and historical exhibitions, and an onscreen archive of thousands of images from the past.

Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavík | 411-6390 reykjavikcitymuseum.is | Hours: MonThu 10-18, Fri 11-18, Sat & Sun 13-17

UNLEASH YOUR TASTE BUDS WITH THE FINEST ICELANDIC GRILL EXPERIENCE

OF ICELAND

Iceland's leading art museum, established in 1884. Its collection consists mainly of 19th, 20th and 21st century art. The National Gallery possesses a coherent array of Icelandic works and a fine collection of international art. Together they constitute around 11,000 items.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

Offers state-of-the-art exhibitions on the cultural history of Iceland. The permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History of Iceland, gives a comprehensive picture of Iceland’s cultural history through the ages to the present day.

Suðurgata 41, Reykjavík

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

A museum that Icelandic sculptor Sigurjón Ólafsson’s wife founded as a tribute to his life and work in 1984. She had his studio in Laugarnes converted to an exhibition space to house his collection of works, including sculptures, sketches, drawings and biographical material.

THE LAVA SHOW

Step into a mesmerizing world where molten earth meets artistic expression and scientific exploration. The Lava Show in Iceland invites you to witness the raw power and elegance of volcanic forces with the world’s only live lava show!

Fiskislóð 73, Reykjavík 553-0005 | icelandiclavashow.com

PERLAN

This peculiar building, built on top of six water tanks on a hill overlooking the city, houses two exhibitions, The Wonders of Iceland and Water in Icelandic Nature. In addition, Perlan has a recently-opened planetarium, a café and gelateria, and an observation deck with a 360° view of the city and its surrounding nature.

Varmahlíð 1, Reykjavík 566-9000 | www.perlan.is Hours: 9-22

530-2200 | www.nationalmuseum.is

Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17

THE ICELANDIC PHALLOLOGICAL MUSEUM

Probably the most unique museum you’ll visit on your trip, the Icelandic Phallological Museum is one of a kind. Here you’ll find a collection of more than two hundred penises and penile parts belonging to almost all land and sea mammals that can be found in Iceland.

Hafnartorg, Reykjavík

561-6663 | www.phallus.is

Hours: Daily 10-19

FLYOVER ICELAND

FlyOver Iceland utilises state-of-theart technology to give you the feeling of flight. You will hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while the film whisks you away on an exhilarating journey across Iceland. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unforgettable experience.

Fiskislóð 43, 101 Reykjavík. 527-6700. www.flyovericeland.is Hours: Mon-Fri, 11:00-19:00 & Sat-Sun, 11:00-19:00.

Laugarnestangi 70 553-2906 | www.lso.is

Hours: Closed in January

AURORA REYKJAVIK

The Northern Lights Center, Aurora Reykjavik, allows you to experience the northern lights in a completely different way, both if you saw them, but as well if they escaped you while in Iceland. The centre features information, education and of course stunning visuals of the elusive lights that’ll get your heart racing.

Grandagarður 2, Reykjavík 780-4500 | www.aurorareykjavik.is

Hours: Daily 9-21

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART

Its objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts from 1900 to the present day. This young museum, the only one of its kind in Iceland, holds regular exhibitions of Icelandic and international design during the year. Exhibitions from the museum‘s own collection are regularly held.

Garðatorg 1, Garðabær

512-1525 | www.honnunarsafn.is

Hours: Tue-Sun 12-17

KJARVALSSTAÐIR

Mainly devoted to paintings and sculpture by well-established Icelandic and international artists. Kjarvalsstaðir offers a permanent exhibition of key works by one of Iceland’s most beloved landscape painters, Jóhannes S. Kjarval, as well as changing exhibitions that explore various thematic and historical aspects of Icelandic art.

Flókagata 24, Reykjavík

411-6420 | www.artmuseum.is

Hours: Daily 10-17

LAXNESS MUSEUM

Halldór Laxness is arguably the most famous Icelandic writer of all time, and the only Icelander to have won a Nobel Prize, which he received for literature in 1955. Gljúfrasteinn was his home until his death, and today it is a museum dedicated to his life and work.

Gljúfrasteinn, Mosfellsbær

586-8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is

Hours: Tue-Fri 10-17

ÁSMUNDARSAFN

Opened in 1983, the collection is housed in a unique building designed and constructed mostly by the artist himself from 1942-1950. The original building served Sveinsson as studio and home; behind it he built a crescent-shaped structure as a work and exhibition space.

Sigtún, Reykjavík

411-6430 | www.artmuseum.is

Hours: Daily 10-17

HAFNARBORG

FREE ENTRY Hafnarborg has a collection of Icelandic art and regular exhibitions presenting leading Icelandic and international artists. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Around exhibitions are workshops and guided tours.

Strandgata 34, Hafnarfjörður

585-5790 | www.hafnarborg.is

Hours: 12-17, closed on Tuesdays

GERÐARSAFN

A progressive modern art museum in Kópavogur, dedicated to sculptor Gerður Helgadóttir; the only museum in Iceland dedicated to a woman. Its collection consists of more than 1,400 works by Gerður, as well as the works of the most celebrated Icelandic artists of the 20th and 21st century.

Hamraborg 4, Kópavogur

441-7600 | www.gerdarsafn.is

Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17

HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS

House of collections was built in 1906 and for most of the 20th century served as the country’s National Library. The stately building currently houses the National Gallery’s exhibition Treasures of a Nation, displaying works from the Gallery’s extensive collection depicting Iceland’s art history from the early 19th century to our times.

Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavík

515-9600 | www.listasafn.is

Hours: Daily 10-17

The old harbour warehouse, Hafnarhús, offers a progressive exhibition program with local and international contemporary artists. The work of current notables, art canons and newcomers is presented in six galleries. Hafnarhús is also home to the works of Erró (b. 1932), a significant player in the international pop art scene.

Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavík

411-6400 | www.artmuseum.is

Hours: Daily 10-17, Thu 10-22

THE LIVING ART MUSEUM

An active exhibition space that has organized many exciting exhibitions throughout the years. They put an emphasis on introducing young Icelandic artists, as well as showcasing work by better-known Icelandic and foreign modern and contemporary artists.

The Marshall House Grandagarður 20, Reykjavík

551-4350 | www.nylo.is

Hours: Wed-Sun: 12-18

THE NORDIC HOUSE

Iceland maintains strong ties to other Nordic countries, and the center of this cooperation is the Nordic House, designed by acclaimed Finnish architect Alvar Aalto in 1968. The Nordic House is the venue if you want to enjoy the best of Icelandic culture as well as experiencing rich culture of the Nordic countries.

Sturlugata 5, Reykjavík

551-7030 | www.nordice.is

Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17

Meet some of Iceland’s finest designers

Skeifan 6 / Kringlan / Smáralind / Laugavegi 7 / Hveragerði / www.epal.is

peckish after a few glasses of their delicious wines, they also serve snacks and small plates. The cosy bar is perfect for having a few glasses of wines with friends or a date.

Laugavegur 27, Reykjavík 888-2380

EINSTÖK

There’s nothing like an Einstök beer after a long day of exploring Reykjavíkand now there’s a whole bar dedicated to this popular brew! Einstök literally means unique and after a few sips of their refreshing craft ale, brewed with fresh water from Northern Iceland, we’re sure you’ll agree. The recently opened Laugavegur bar makes it even easier to enjoy their variety of ales, ranging from citrusy fresh white to the darkest of porters.

Laugavegur 10, Reykjavík

LOFT HOSTEL

This hostel café/bar is bright and spacious; the perfect place to start the night. The hall hosts events most nights and on summer afternoons, the balcony is the best place in town for a beer in the sun. Last but not least, Loft has the best foosball table of all the bars in the city centre.

Bankastræti 7, Reykjavík 553-8140

If you are visiting Iceland for the first time then you must stop by the Lebowski Bar. Open every day from 11AM, happy hour from 4-7PM, food served until 10PM, Quiz every Thursday (free entry), live sport events on 5 HD screens and Reykjavik nightlife every Friday & Saturday.

Laugavegur 20a, Reykjavík 552-2300

www.lebowski.is

PORT 9

Port 9 wine bar is a hidden gem just off the main shopping street. Serving selected wines and a unique blend of appetizers made with the freshest seasonal ingredients, Port 9 is one of the best spots in the city to stop by for a glass of quality wine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Veghúsastígur 9, Reykjavík 897-8212

www.port9.is

Beer enthusiasts look no further! near the top of Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping street, you will find Micro Bar. This ambitious bar serves only beer from microbreweries! Carrying an impressive 140 different kinds of beers from all over the world, this is definitely the go-to place for beer fans, and a nice place to spend an evening.

Laugavegur 86, Reykjavík

KIKI - QUEER BAR

VEÐUR

This cozy little bar is named after the Icelandic word for weather, Icelanders’ conversation topic of choice in most situations. Offering a selection of wine, beer, and cocktails, Veður is a great spot for hanging out with friends, and the large windows make it ideal for people-watching over a drink.

Klapparstígur 33, Reykjavík www.vedurbarinn.is

Kiki is the only queer bar in town these days but it is also the best one! If you’re worried you won’t find the place, don’t be. The rainbow coloured street entrance, stream of people in a dancing mood, and the far-off sound of dance-heavy beats should lead you where you want to go!

Laugavegur 22

www.kiki.is

RÖNTGEN

In the early 20th century, Hverfisgata 12 was home to the country’s first X-ray clinic. Today, the building houses one of the city’s newest bars but the name pays homage to the building’s long history. Expect cocktails, natural wines, and the city’s artsiest crowd having a night out.

Hverfisgata 12, Reykjavík

www. www.rontgenbar.is

THE IRISHMAN PUB

An Irish-style pub in downtown Reykjavík. Happy hour every day from 12PM to 7PM! Guests can enjoy a game of darts, listen to live music Thursday to Sunday evenings, spin the wheel of fortune and you can even book a private karaoke room! Sláinte.

Klapparstígur 27, Reykjavík 581-2020

www.irishman.is

PETERSEN SVÍTAN

One of the coolest bars in Reykjavik these days is Kaldi Bar. In close cooperation with north Icelandic micro brewery of the same name, Kaldi offers you a selection of craft brewed beers on tap. Great happy hour and great fun, Kaldi is a place not to be missed!

Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavík 581-2200

Built in 1926 as an apartment, the Petersen Suite is one of Reykjavík’s hidden gems. Take the elevator up to the third floor above the historic Gamla Bíó concert hall to reveal an elegant bar with one of Reykjavík’s best views. On sunny days, you need to get there early, the sunny patio fills up quickly!

Ingólfsstræti 2a 3rd floor, Reykjavík 563-4000 | www.ktf.is

Best known as Damon Albarn’s hangout place back in the day, this most famous bar in Iceland is a popular destination for the artsy crowd. During the week it‘s more of a café, but on the weekend the volume rises and KB becomes one of the hottest bars in Reykjavik.

Bergstaðastræti 1, Reykjavík 551-1588

www.kaffibarinn.is

UPPI BAR

Uppi Bar offers upscale dining, wine and cocktails. The name Uppi refers to its location, upstairs above the renowned Fish Market Restaurant. You can expect the same exquisite attention to detail and delicious food, but in a casual bar setting, perfect for happy hour or a fancy start to a night out.

Aðalstræti 12, Reykjavík 571-8788

SESSION

Every Friday and Saturday night the newly established Club Sólon is booming with music, dancing, cocktails and drinks on two floors until 4AM in the morning. Start your evening on the cozy 1st floor lounge area with 2-for-1 cocktails and then dance the night away with the local crowd.

Bankastræti 14, 2nd floor, Reykjavík

AMERICAN BAR

American Bar is named appropriately since it’s an American Bar in Reykjavík, of the kind you’re probably familiar with from other countries: there are dudes, chicks and random university students partying to the latest MTV tunes. They specialize in American culture and entertainment.

Austurstræti 8, Reykjavík 571-9999

DEN DANSKE KRO

This homey pub with a Danish theme is popular among locals. Happy hour every day from 4-7pm and live music with talented Icelandic musicians every night. Beer bingo every month and other fun events! Located in the heart of the city centre.

Ingólfsstræti 3, Reykjavík

552-0070

www.danski.is

THE ENGLISH PUB

A popular pub in city centre. The English Pub offers happy hour every day from 4-7pm, live music every night, wheel of fortune and all major sport events are shown on 6 HD screens. Special events: Open Mic Tuesday, Guinness Thursday and Whisky Sunday.

Austurstræti 12, Reykjavík 578-0400

facebook.com/enskibarinn

Taste the best of iceland

ICELANDIC GOURMET FEAST

Starts with a shot of the infarmous Icelandic spirit Brennivín

late night dining

Our kitchen is open until 23:00 on weekdays and 24:00 on weekends

Followed by 7 delicious tapas

• Smoked puffin with blueberry “brennivín” sauce

• Icelandic arctic char with candy beets salad, asparagus and elderflower-hollandaise

• Lobster tails baked in garlic

• Pan-fried blue ling with lobster sauce

• Grilled Icelandic lamb tenderloin with beer-butterscotch sauce

• Minke Whale with sweet potato mash and malt sauce

And for dessert:

• White chocolate "Skyr" mousse with passion coulis

11.900 kr.

THE STEAK HOUSE

A restaurant opposite the old harbour that offers traditional steak dishes along with some exciting and fairly unorthodox choices. The pride and joy of The Steakhouse is the Mibrasa charcoal oven, a rare oven that is designed to cook the perfect steak by mixing modern technology with ancient tradition.

Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavík 561-1111 | www.steik.is

Looking out over the Nauthólsvík beach, this charming Scandinavianinspired bistro is the perfect oasis from the stress of the everyday. Whether you’re there for a light lunch, a glass of wine on a sunny afternoon, a cup of hot coffee on a cold one, or a lovely dinner with a loved one, Nauthóll is the place to go.

Nauthólsvegi 106, 101 Reykjavík 599-6660 | www.nautholl.is

DUCK & ROSE

This trendy restaurant overlooking Austurvöllur square serves light and delicious food, inspired by French and Italian cuisine. The duck dishes are highly recommended but whatever you do, don’t forget to order one of their expertly mixed cocktails!

Austurstræti 14 101 Reykjavík 551 1020 |

Italian restaurant Hornið is a Reykjavík restaurant institution at this point, having opened in 1979. Situated in downtown Reykjavík, it was the first Italian restaurant in town and is as strong as ever. Expect fresh pizza, made right in front of the guests in the open kitchen. The cosy place is also a decent spot for people watching, with its large windows.

Hafnarstræti 15, Reykjavík 551-3340 I www.hornid.is

THE ICELANDIC BAR

The Icelandic Bar is very aptly named: it is an Icelandic bar. But more than that, it is a bar that aims to preserve the essence of being Icelandic by combining the historical and cultural heritage of this ancient land with the very hip and cutting edge culture of modern times.

Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík 517-6767

GRANDI MATHÖLL

Grandi Mathöll is a must visit for foodies. Situated in the hip Grandi area, the European style food hall has everything from fresh salmon ceviche to Vietnamese spring rolls and Korean tacos. Right next door is one of Iceland’s busiest harbours, and visitors can see a feed of live ship arrivals.

Grandagarður 16, Reykjavík 577-6200 | www.grandimatholl.is

THE LAUNDROMAT CAFE

Situated right downtown in Austurstræti, Laundromat houses laundry facilities and a family-friendly environment. A spacious recreational room downstairs will keep your children busy while you’re chomping on the bistro menu. Whether it’s brunch, board games or beer you’re looking for, Laundromat should have you covered.

Austurstræti 9, Reykjavík

SPÁNSKI BARINN

Situated just off Laugavegur, the Spanish style bodega Spánski barinn offers fresh tapas and a quality wine selection. In a dim and cosy basement, guests can enjoy a quality happy hour chock full of wines from Tempranillo to Rioja, as well as a house red on tap.

Ingólfsstræti 8, Reykjavík 832-8881

reason to stop by is for the selection of

Opið

scandinavian bistro Hverfisgata

With a new spin on traditional Icelandic of local beer, Forréttabarinn – “The Starters Bar” – is worth seeking out when you need a bite to eat or a place to start your night out in Reykjavík. Whatever you choose from the refreshingly creative menu, you’re in

KRYDD is an à la carte restaurant that offers a dinner and lunch menu, along with appetizers and a state of the art cocktailbar. On Sundays, it offers a brunch buffet between 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM.

Hafnarborg, Strandgötu 34, Hafnarfjörður www.kryddveitingahus.is

Open: M-T 11-23, F-S, 11-01, S 11-23

Hlemmur Mathöll is a European style food hall featuring global delicacies alongside tasty Icelandic dishes. A former bus station, Hlemmur is now the new home for gourmands and fast food lovers alike in Reykjavík. Hlemmur brims with life on both weekends and weekdays alike, so head on down to see what the fuss is about.

Laugavegur, Reykjavík 787-6200 | www.hlemmurmatholl.is

of British and Icelandic culture, with fresh, quality Icelandic fish served in the traditional British way. You can even get mushy peas and malt vinegar with it! Festing on hot fish and chips while looking over the old harbour is an unbeatable Reykjavík experience.

Between the Reykjavík Maritime Museum and Reykjavík Marina Hotel 840-4100 | fishandchipsvagninn.is

JÓMFRÚIN

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN MENU

An open-sandwich restaurant in the Danish tradition offering authentic Danish smørrebrød along with a selection of hot dishes. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city centre and seats 80 guests. It is a popular lunch venue, especially with people from the business sector.

Lækjargata 4, Reykjavík 551-0100 www.jomfruin.is

ÍTALÍA

One of Reykjavík’s oldest restaurants has moved to a new location! Offering all of the Italian classics, from delicious pasta dishes, to pizza and risotto, Ítalía is perfect for a family dinner or special night out.

Frakkastígur 8b, Reykjavík ww.italia.is

Grazie Trattoria is a casual but elegant Italian eatery conveniently located right off of Hverfisgata, a main street in downtown. Enjoy all of your Italian favourites, including pizza, pasta, seafood, good wine, and more!

Hverfisgata 96, Reykjavík 475-1555 | www.grazietrattoria.is

BÆJARINS BEZTU

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur literally means The Town’s Best Hot Dogs. A must try while visiting, it is the perfect on-the-go food. We dare you to time the hot dog artists at Bæjarins Beztu after you order ‘ein með öllu’ (one with everything). They are incredibly quick to make a concoction of raw onions, fried onions, ketchup, remoulade, Icelandic mustard and the dog itself.

Tryggvagata 1, 101 Reykjavík 511-1566 | www.bbp.is

@grazietrattoria.is

Hverfisgata 96 - 101 Reykjavík

LA PRIMAVERA

One of Iceland’s most treasured restaurants has made a comeback. The Italian delicacies of La Primavera are here to stay. Situated in the Marshall building, a former fishing warehouse, the building is also home to an art gallery, an art studio and the Living Art Museum.

Grandagarður 20 & Harpa Concert hall, Reykjavík

519-7766

www.laprimavera.is

KOPAR

Kopar is a restaurant by the old harbour in Reykjavik which has an emphasis on adventure and experience in a brasserie setting. Their menu is composed of various locally sourced ingredients from sea and land, and aims to give you a taste of Iceland in a single evening.

Geirsgata 3, Reykjavík

567-2700

www.koparrestaurant.is

Monkeys is an exciting restaurant offering Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Japanese recipes and traditions with Peruvian ingredients. Exciting flavours of miso, ginger, soy, wasabi, and rice vinegar are mixed with quinoa, bell peppers, Andean potatoes, and corn, in a beautiful setting that creates just the right atmosphere. A great addition to the Reykjavík culinary scene!

Klapparstígur 30, 101 Reykjavík 519-5350 | www.monkeys.is

BASTARD

This Irish-bar looking restaurant is one of the city’s best places to sit down for a quick lunch and end up whiling away a whole afternoon in the cosy booth while the game is on or on the sunny patio. The weekend-bottomless brunch is particularly popular. so make sure to get a reservation!

Vegamótastígur 4, Reykjavík 558-0800

www.bastardbrewandfood.is

HAFNARTORG GALLERY

Hafnartorg Gallery, located by Reykjavík’s old harbour and across from the modern Harpa concert hall, is one of the latest editions to fine but casual dining downtown. With adjacent shops and art galleries nearby, sample artisanal pizzas, poke bowls, or a classic steak frites. Hafnartorg Gallery also offers a full-feature bar with beer on tap, wine, and a variety of cocktails. Hafnartorg, Reykjavík

www.hafnartorggallery.is

FISH COMPANY

Quality, fusion and fun are the Fish Company’s main characteristics. The interior is stylish and the quirky tableware fits in wonderfully. The menu is a world of adventures from starters to deserts. It’s designed to take you on a seafood journey and not only a journey of the Icelandic culinary waters but a trip around the world.

Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavík 552-5300 | www.fiskfelagid.is

PUBLIC HOUSE

This Laugavegur gastropub is a great place to treat yourself to a a dinner and some drinks with friends, old and new. With a delicious menu of Asian-fusion inspired small plates to share and an even more delicious menu of cocktails, Public House is a recipe for a fun evening. If you want a fun morning or a fun afternoon instead, check out their bottomless brunch!

Laugavegur 24, 101 Reykjavík

www.publichouse.is

BREWDOG

Hop lovers, rejoice! UK’s Craft Beer Phenomenon just opened a bar and restaurant in downtown Reykjavik, located at the corner of Hverfisgata and Frakkastigur. Featuring 20 taps including BrewDog’s headliners, seasonals and one off brews as well as great local Icelandic craft beers. Highly impressive food menu and a very cosy atmosphere.

Frakkastígur 8, Reykjavík

www.brewdog.com

Head out to Brauð & Co. to get your hands on the scrumptious sourdough bread and tasty cinnamon buns. The early bird gets the worm, so don't be late! Keep in mind that the queue can get quite long, but it's well worth it.

Opens early, closes at 18:00.

Frakkastígur 16, Reykjavík

Fákafen 11, Reykjavík

www.braudogco.is

IF

HOW TO ...

TAKE THE BUS

Strætó is the Icelandic bus company, and their yellow buses are easy to spot around the city. In November 2021, Strætó introduced the KLAPP payment system in their buses. You have three ways to pay. With a top up KLAPP card, with the KLAPP app, and with KLAPP ten, a bus pass with ten tickets. You can buy KLAPP cards and KLAPP ten at selected gas stations, convenience stores, museums, and swimming pools. For more information, go to https://www.klappid.is/en/sales

GET TO THE AIRPORT

Iceland’s international airport is located in Keflavík, about 50km from Reykjavík. If you rent a car or take a cab, it will take about 45 minutes to get to Reykjavík. A cheaper but just as reliable option is taking a bus to and from the airport. They connect to flights and will drop you off or pick you up at bus stops close to your accommodation in Reykjavík.

GET MONEY

Iceland has its own currency, the Icelandic króna (ISK). It’s best to get króna at any bank (open Monday to Friday, 9-4), including the one at the Keflavík International Airport (open 24/7). You can either exchange money or go to an ATM to get cash. Credit card and debit card payments are widely accepted in Iceland.

PARK IN THE CITY CENTRE

There are different parking zones which charge different rates. Look for a parking sign (the familiar big P) indicating zones 1-4 and parking garages. Look for the nearest black terminal to pay, with cash or card, and type in your car’s number plate, no ticket necessary!

MAKE CALLS

Getting an Icelandic SIM card is easy, you can get them at the airport, phone companies, and, of course, the What’s On tourist information centre at Laugavegur 5.

GO SWIMMING

There are 18 swimming pools in the capital area and if you have the time, you should try them all. Swimming is great, but don’t miss relaxing in the hot tubs – this is where the community gathers and socialises. If you haven’t packed a bathing suit, you can rent one at the pool.

Visit What’s On at Laugavegur 5 or contact us at info@whatson.is.

Experience Icelandic Bathing Culture

Minutes from the City Centre