Reykjavik, the capital city of the unique visitor destination of Iceland, is spectacularly set along the volcanic far-northern island's southwestern coastline on a beautiful bay warmed by the Gulf Stream. An increasingly popular tourism destination year-round despite its winter sub-zero temperatures, the city has managed to develop its tourism potential without affecting its charming, friendly ambience. Whether on a short or longer break, the sheer variety of things to see and do and the amazing natural scenic beauty of its rural surroundings ensure visitors return time and time again.
Known for its geothermal geysers and active volcanoes as well as for its long Viking history and heritage, the modern city is a fascinating mix of ancient and modern, with its museums, art galleries and fine buildings displaying the best of both worlds. Reykjavik's fascinating museums cover its long maritime history; display one of the world's finest collections of medieval manuscripts including early version of the Icelandic Sagas; recreate an original early village with period artefacts and display cultural treasures from across its 1,000-year history.
A must-visit, (even if museums don't normally appeal) for the background to this unique destination is the Culture House, crammed with national treasures, ancient Viking horns, weapons and other artefacts, and one of the most comprehensive collections of handwritten medieval manuscripts any where in the world – all written in Old Norse and magnificently illustrated. The Maritime Museum displays the Viking longships which travelled as far as the Black Sea and the North African coast as well as the delicate-seeming old fishing boats used by locals to brave the freezing winter seas for the day's catch.
The picturesque Old Town lies along the old harbour, now a destination for cruise ships as well as a safe refuge for more modern fishermen's boats during the winter storms. The maritime and fishing tradition is still strong here, with vast fleets of modern-day trawlers heading across the Atlantic Ocean from the new port until the decline in fishing stocks slowed their numbers. In the 9th century, the famous mariner Leif Eriksson left from the bay on his journey to discover America. His commemorative statue stands high on a hill in front of the breathtaking modern Hallgrimskirkja church, itself a must-see for lovers of innovative modern architecture.
The treasures waiting to be uncovered on a visit to Reykjavik aren't all cultural and historical, as the city is set in the magnificent Icelandic coastal landscape with its coves, bays, offshore islands and backdrop of volcanic mountains, glaciers and snowfields. Nature may very well be in the raw here, but its uniquely fascinating features make exploring an essential part of a trip. Travelling by hire car is best, especially if trips to the wilderness inland are part of the holiday agenda. Whale and dolphin-watching boat trips are an all-time favourite, and sightseeing flights over the territory, although expensive, are well worth it for the glorious views.
The vibrant nightlife in the city is well-known, with pubs, clubs and music bars all contributing to the experience. During the summer, the midnight sun shines its weird light over the all- night festivities and in winter, every hotels in Reykjavik is full with nature-lovers gazing at the pulsating green waves of the Northern Lights, an unbeatable, never to be forgotten, once-in- a-lifetime experience. For more on the rich volcanic history of Iceland, a visit to the Red Rock Cinema's Volcano Show is interesting for the entire family. Continuing the family theme, Husdyragarourinn Zoo is home to friendly farmyard animals, adapted over the centuries to survive in the harsh conditions.
Lek Boonlert is an editor and content reviewer at DirectRooms and is responsible for all Reykjavik Hotels content.
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