Reykjavík City Guide 2013-2014 by Markhönnun ehf

Shopping ∙ Nightlife ∙ Restaurants Events ∙ Museums ∙ Attractions

Table of Content

The ultimate guide and map

Museums & galleries Wining & dining for every budget

Where to shop Tax Free

Reykjavík Welcome Card

20 14

within reach

Reykjavík on foot

20 13 -

Tours & activities

OUR BE S T TIPS

GLACIER WALKS

AND OTHER EXCITING DAY TOURS

MAKE EVERY MOMENT AN EXPERIENCE! Tel: +354 587 9999 MOUNTAINGUIDES.IS - mountainguides@mountainguides.is or visit the ITM INFORMATION AND BOOKING CENTER, Bankastræti 2 - Downtown, Reykjavík

OUTDOOR ALKSADVENTURES GLACIER W DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVÍK DAY TOURS

SKAFTAFELL JÖKULL & SÓLHEIMA

SUPER JE ADVENTU EP RES

DAY TOU RS FRO M REYK JAVÍK

ic el an dr mountainguid es.isCall 2013 20 134 587 ov er s. is +35 nguides.is Call +354 587 9999 9999 mountai 587 9999 1

Call +354

2013 1

I RF

‹URKEN SVI N I 2012

For designing and developing Glacier Walks.

umhverfis- og auðlindaráðuneytið

G N

2006

UMH VE

ICELANDAIR PIONEER AWARD

Spör ehf.

WE ARE PROUD OF THE REPUTATION WE´VE EARNED

VOLCANO CINEMA The Westman Islands 1973 Eyjafjallajökull 2010

Showtimes, every day of the week: English: 10:00 to 20:00, every hour on the hour German: 18:00 from 1 June – 1 September French: 21:00 from 1 June – 1 September The Volcano House shows two highly interesting films on eruptions in Iceland. One from the Westman Islands where a tremendous eruption began 23 January 1973. Nearly 5,000 people were evacuated to the mainland in a matter of hours. The lava later engulfed 400 houses on the main island. The other film presents the volcanic side of Iceland and gives an insight into the world famous Eyjafjallajökull eruption which caused a huge disruption in European air travel. This powerful documentary was made especially for the Volcano House, filmed and directed by an Emmy-nominated film crew.

Cinema, Café, Geological Exhibition Tourist Information and Booking Service Volcano Books and Design Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavik l (354) 555 1900 | www.volcanohouse.is

Make it’s Eld sure ing!

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

ELDING WHALE WATCHING from Reykjavík

Elding Whale Watching schedule – all year round EL-01 / EL-02 / EL-03

Jan-Mar 13:00

Apr 9:00

May 9:00

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

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

* From 15 May to 15 September ** From 15 June to 31 July

Other adventures at sea Puffin Watching 15 May - 15 August at 9:30 and 15:00 Sea Angling 1 May - 31 August at 11:00 Environmental Award Icelandic Tourist board

www.elding.is

CITY CENTER 18

37 27

30 29

9 6 7

17 34

10 12

11 13

Information points

Scale in meters

250

500

Reykjavík – Capital Area pages 10-22

Museums & Galleries pages 23-32

Shopping pages 33-64

Eat & Drink

INDEX

Reykjavík – Capital Area Reykjavík Foldout Map Welcome The seasons Get energized City culture Family fun Surrounding towns

3 10 12 13 14 15 18

Museums & Galleries

pages 65-82

Major museums Galleries

Tours & Activities

Shopping

Events

Main shopping areas Local designers Fish-leather & shoes Wool & souvenirs Shop Tax Free

pages 83-108

pages 109-118

Accommodation pages 119-126

Good to Know

24 30

34 38 42 44 45

Eat & Drink Restaurants Cafés Bars, pubs & clubs

66 80 81

pages 127-140

Tours & Activities

Iceland today ehf Ofanleiti 2, 103 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 2620

Day trips & tours Biking Golf & Northern Lights Children Pools & spas Reykjavík on foot

icelandtoday@icelandtoday.is www.icelandtoday.is Authors have taken all reasonable care in preparing this handbook, information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but make no guarantee about the accuracy or completeness of its content. © Iceland Today ehf. Material and contents property of publisher. All rights reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyright may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means – without the written permission of the authors and the publisher. Printed and distributed in 100,000 copies. Audited Circulation by SAF Member of the Icelandic Tourism industry Association (SAF) PUBLISHED, EDITED & CREATED BY: IcelandToday ehf. icelandtoday@icelandtoday.is TEXT ADAPTED & WRITTEN BY: IcelandToday ehf DESIGN & LAYOUT BY: Markhönnun ehf PHOTOGRAPHS BY: Ari Magg, Lýður Guðmundsson, Vilhelm Gunnarsson, Ragnar Th. Sigurðsson & many more. MAPS: E. Backmann COVERPHOTO: Ragnar Th. Sigurðsson PRINTING: Isafold Printing House, Ecolabelled Printing Company. www.isafold.is

84 94 96 97 99 100

Events Annual events

110

Accommodation Hotels Guesthouses

120 124

Good to Know Transportation Telephone & Internet Everything else

128 129 132

Day Trip Close to Reykjavík

135

ENG ESP FRA DEU Reykjavik – Capital y alrededores Reykjavik – Capitale et les environs Reykjavik – Hauptstadt und Umgebung Reykjavik Mapa desplegable Bienvenidos Las estaciones Ciudad de energía Ciudad y cultura Diversión en familia Pueblos alrededores

Reykjavik Carte dépliante Bienvenues Les saisons Ville d’énergie Ville et la culture Plaisir en famille Villes environnantes

Reykjavik Karte ausklappbare 3 Willkommen 10 Die Jahreszeiten 12 Energie-Stadt 13 Stadt und Kultur 14 Familienspaß 15 Umliegende Städte 18

Museos & Galerías

Musées & Galeries

Museen & Galerien

Museos principales Galerías de arte

Les grands musées Galeries d’art

Große Museen Kunstgalerien

Compras

Shopping

Einkaufen

Las principales zonas comerciales Diseñadores locales Cuero de pescado & calzado Lana y recuerdos Tax Free Compras

Principales zones commerciales Designers locaux Poisson cuir & chaussures Laine & souvenirs Achats Tax Free

Haupteinkaufsstraßen Lokale Designer Fisch-Leder & Schuhe Wolle & Souvenirs Tax Free Kaufen

Comer & Beber

Manger & Boire

Essen & Trinken

Restaurantes Cafeterías Bares, pubs & discotecas

Restaurants Cafés Bars, pubs & clubs

Restaurants Cafés Bars, Pubs & Clubs

Excursiones & Actividades

Tours & Activités

Touren & Aktivitäten

Excursiones En bicicleta Golf & Aurora boreales Para niños Piscinas & balnearios Reykiavik a pie

Excursions A vélo Golf & Aurore boréale Pour les enfants Piscines & spas Reykjavík à pied

Tagesausflüge & Touren Rad fahren Golf & Nordlicht für Kinder Schwimm- & Thermalbad Reykjavík zu Fuß

Eventos

Événements

Veranstaltungen

Los eventos anuales

Des événements annuels

Jährliche Veranstaltungen

Alojamiento

Logement

Unterkunft

Hoteles Pensiones

Hôtels Pensions

Hotels Pensionen

24 30

34 38 42 44 45

66 80 81

84 94 96 97 99 100

110

120 124

Bueno Saber

Bon à Savoir

Gut zu Wissen

Transporte Teléfono & Internet Todo lo demás

Transporte Téléphone & Internet Tout le reste

Transport Telefon & Internet Alles andere

Excursión cerca de Reykjavik

Excursion près de Reykjavik

Tagesausflug in der Nähe von Reykjavik 135

128 129 132

welcome to REYKJAVÍK R

eykjavík may be one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, but it still packs a powerful cultural punch, where visitors can enjoy a multitude of various events and festivals all year round! With a fascinating history rooted in the great Sagas and its unique location within a land of diverse landscapes – all filled to the brim with super-nature, Reykjavik manages to combine a terrific blend of hip and wholesome, but without the stress that usually follows a cosmopolitan metropolis. In fact Icelanders are considered to be so easy-goingvisitReykjavík.is and gregarious, that they’ve just added a new travel accolade to their growing collection for being the friendliest nation in the world!

Top 10 things to do

Whether illuminated by the unending daylight of summertime or the spectacular Aurora Borealis during the winter, Reykjavik has become a popular alternative travel destination for all seasons, offering a myriad of adventures and a paradise of possibilities for all who visit! From the Vikings of old, to the architects and innovators of contemporary culture, many different groups have influenced the shaping of the capital area into the vibrant city it is today – a city which is said to buzz with creative energy and passion. This feel-good-factor people tend to experience while visiting could have something to do with the pristine air or water pure drinking water, or perhaps the proximity of all those extraordinary natural wonders, such

as volcanoes and glaciers. Whatever is it, one thing’s for sure, once you’ve been introduced, it’s hard to let go or say goodbye. While Reykjavik maintains its small-town feel, it’s still a modern European capital with all the governmental institutions you’d expect to find in a metropolitan city, with the added bonus of having a unique spa and pool culture. Here you’ll discover a thriving culinary scene with many outstanding restaurants, and a diverse cultural life, with a variety of interesting museums, theatres, galleries, sports facilities and some first class universities. So however long you stay, we hope you’ll discover the energy of Reykjavík and share your adventures with your family and friends!

Stroll around the city centre, admire the colourful old houses and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere by Tjörnin pond.

Soak your stress away in one of the city’s relaxing thermal pools.

5 3

Get to know Iceland’s fascinating cultural heritage or modern art at one of the city’s museums and galleries.

Take a special guided tour of the award winning Harpa concert hall!

Climb up the steps of Hallgrímskirkja church’s steeple for a panoramic view of the city.

Pick up some Icelandic design, clothing or jewelry.

HISTORY OF REYKJAVÍK

ccording to the Book of Icelanders, human history in Iceland began in the year 871 – plus/minus two years – with the arrival of Ingólfur Arnason. Reykjavík – which translates as “Smokey Bay” – is a reference to the columns of steam Arnason discovered in the area where he built his farmstead. This early period is well documented in the Book of Settlements; however if you’d like to find out more about why and how the Vikings came to Reykjavík, then a visit to the National Museum and the Settlement Exhibition Reykjavík 871+/-2 will leave you fully enlightened. It wasn’t until the 18th century that a small town began to grow around the homestead.Royal Treasurer Skúli Magnússon, opened wool mills in an effort to modernize the Icelandic economy and in a way, it was on the backs of sheep that Reykjavík was able to reach modern urban development. The town received its charter in 1798 and when Iceland finally regained home rule from the Danes in 1944, Reykjavík became the country’s capital. From then

Test your stamina with a night on the town “Reykjavík style”.

Visit The Pearl – a structure straight out of Star Trek with a viewing platform and a revolving restaurant on top of hot water storage tanks—beam me up!

onwards the city began booming into the modern capital you see today. Fortunately the past isn’t lost. Reykjavík offers some great museums that bring you face to face with its colourful past, from recreating Viking heritage to uncovering the lives of everyday Icelanders in years bygone. But of course the best way to discover the city’s history is

to combine your trip to the museum with a walk around Reykjavik’s historical sights on your own.

Visit one of Reykjavík’s restaurants to give your taste buds a treat with seafood from Iceland’s pristine waters.

Be amazed at the sight of whales and dolphins

Reykjavík for the seasons R eykjavík is a city reborn with every new season. Not only are there different activities and festivals during the varying times of year, but also the energy of the city and its people changes from season to season too.

Film Festival, which highlights independent filmmaking and showcases the work of upand-coming filmmakers. Fans of peace, love and John Lennon won’t want to miss Yoko Ono’s annual Imagine Peace Tower ceremony in October, where she invites residents and visitors to join her for the illumination of a super-beam of light on Viðey Island in celebration of both John Lennon’s vision of peace and his birthday. In late October/early November you can experience the country’s crowning music event – Iceland Airwaves, which regularly draws top performers, countless festivalgoers and media attention from around the globe.

Summer

With almost 24 hours of daylight during the summer, Reykjavík truly becomes the city that never sleeps – with popular summertime activities including whale-watching, seafishing, horseback-riding and trips to the many natural wonders nearby. Perhaps one of the more remarkable summer destinations within Reykjavik city is the geothermal beach found at Nauthólsvík, where you can spend the afternoon enjoying a picnic or swimming in a heated ocean lagoon. Sea-swimmers will also be pleased to learn that they can enjoy the cooler waters of the Atlantic, and then warm-up afterwards in the sauna or one of the two giant hot-tubs onsite. One of the more unusual facts about Reykjavík is its abundance of exceptional coffee houses, all staffed with talented baristas. On a hot sunny day the thriving coffee-culture often spills out onto the streets – particularly around the Austurvöllur Square area, where coffee-loving crowds can be found sat outside sipping on a frappe-latte while soaking-up the sun.

Winter

There’s never a dull day in Reykjavík during the wintertime, even if the days are dark! Apart from the occasional fall of luminous snow and regular displays of Northern Lights there’s also a full calendar of cultural events with festivities galore, concerts, plays and many seasonal exhibitions. Winter-sports enthusiasts will find many of exciting winter tours available from Reykjavík including monster jeep tours, horseback riding, dog sledding and snowmobiling on a glacier etc. The Christmas season is always celebrated in great splendor where the city’s buildings, trees and streets are decorated with countless fairy lights, ornaments and adorable Christmas displays. If you’re in town during the festivities, check out our special advent calendar, packed full of adventures and escapades to engage all your senses. Keep a look-out too for those mysterious Yule Lads, such as Sausage Swiper and Window Peeper who make surprise appearances in the city during the month of

Autumn

Reykjavík’s calendar of events kicks into high gear during the fall with many important international conferences and big cultural festivals taking place. Starting dramatically at the end of September is the Reykjavík International

JAN

UARY

•Þrettándinn, Twelfth night •Reykjavk National Games •Dark Music Days

FEB

RUARY

•Winter Light Festival •Food and Fun •International Children´s Day

MAR

•Reykjavík Fashion Festival •Design- March •kjavik Blues Festival 24th29th

APR

•Sequences Art Festival •Children´s Culture

Festival •Icelandic Horse Festival

MAY

•Reykjavík Art Festival •Reykjavík Music Mess •Raflost Electronic Arts Festival

JUN

•Festival of The Sea •National Day 17th

December. On New Year’s Eve Reykjavík explodes with colour and light in one of the most impressive firework shows you’ll ever see. In February you can enjoy the tasty Food & Fun festival, followed closely by the Winter Lights Festival, which always delivers a packed program full of special events for the whole family.

Spring

surroundings for a more sheltered walk. With access to a variety of outdoor activities around the city and the new worldclass facilities at the Harpa concert and conference hall, Reykjavík has become a perfect weekend destination for tourists and an exciting option for business people too, especially for those seeking actionpacked nature-based activities, such as diving, hiking or river rafting. Its location midway between Europe and America

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

energizing reykjavík In Reykjavík, nature is literally at your doorstep. Half surrounded by majestic mountains – visible from just about everywhere in the city on a clear day. The city has many footpaths, including walking and cycling routes along much of the Reykjavík coastline and through parks and other open areas. The wooded areas of Öskjuhlíð hill and Elliðaárdalur Valley provide perfect

•ReyCup int. Football Festival UST

•Innipúkinn Music Festival •Reykjavík Culture Night •Reykjavík Gay Pride •Reykjavík Marathon

SEP

Nauthólsvík

also makes Reykjavík an ideal place to set up a conference. Reykjavík also offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of clubs, pubs or live venues to suit a multitude of different party moods!

RELAXING REYKJAVIK Despite the all the positive energy generated here, people don’t just visit for the verve; they also come to unwind in the milky waters of the Blue Lagoon or to soak in any of the many thermal pools around the city.

TEMBER

•RIFF Int. Film Festival •The Reykjavík International Literary Festival

OCT

OBER

NOV

EMBER

•Contemporary Exhibitions of local and international artists •Young Art Festival

DEC

EMBER •Iceland Airwaves •The Imagine Peace Tower •Lighting of the Oslo Christmas Tree •International •New Year´s Eve in Poetry Festival Reykjavík 31st

www.icelandtoday.is

JUL AUG

REYKJAVÍK – CAPITAL AREA

Energizing reykjavík

inspiring reykjavík ART & CULTURE

Top 10 family activities

Designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, Reykjavik is the core of Iceland’s literary heritage and home to a treasure of literary works, both medieval and contemporary. It also boasts a wealth of talented poets and authors. You’ll discover an array of museums and galleries open year-round, which vary from displays of national historic treasures and texts to small eclectic galleries exhibiting contemporary work by local artists. Reykjavík is also characterized by an unusually vibrant artistic community and has a number of prestigious museums and art galleries of which the Reykjavík Art Museum is the largest. It’s made up of three distinctive museum spaces: Hafnarhús (harbour house) located in an old warehouse down by the harbour, where the focus is on local and international contemporary art. Kjarvalsstadir, named after one of Iceland’s most beloved artists Jóhannes S. Kjarval (1885 1972), always has works from its namesake’s collection on display. The Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum is in Laugardalur – his works are on display both inside and outside the building, which the artist designed and constructed largely by himself and was his former home. In recent years, Reykjavik has become well known for its prolific music and performing arts scene – the city is a breeding ground for musical talent and hosts several highly active theatre companies. A striking new addition to the Icelandic and European cultural scene is Harpa, the Reykjavík Concert Hall and Con-

Splash and play—or just soak—at one of 20 thermal pools in the Reykjavík capital area.

Meet the friendly ducks at Tjörnin pond.

ference Centre and recipient of the prestigious Mies Van der Rohe award for architecture. Harpa unites the most important classical music and performance venues in the country with an international conference centre. It offers a diverse range of performances from classical to contemporary, showcasing both local and international performers. Harpa is also home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and The Icelandic Opera.

MUSIC Adding to the city’s reputation for creativity are a number of well-established musicians such as legendary local lass Björk, the indefinable Sigur Rós and the ever-so-cute Emilíana Torrini; not forgetting the new sonic force emerging, with some up-and-coming Ice-

landic artists and bands rising, quicker than cream, to the top of the international charts.

SHOPPING & DESIGN Whether you’re after famous brands, unique Icelandic design or quality souvenirs, you’ll be impressed at the selection in downtown Reykjavík. On the main shopping street Laugarvegur, you can find many international brand names, local designers, and popular second-hand shops where you might discover some quirky Icelandic bargains. If you prefer the mall experience you can take a trip to Kringlan – home to around 150 shops, restaurants and services under one roof. Tax refunds for your purchases are available at Keflavík airport, and the information desk.

WINING & DINING Foodies will find plenty to keep them happy in the nation’s capital. Reykjavík has an amazing

Experience Viking times at one of the capital area’s many museums. Visit the animals at the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo.

See whales and puffins on a boat trip from Reykjavík’s old harbour. Climb to the very top of majestic Mount Esja and be rewarded with a spectacular view of the city.

Family friendly Reykjavík

Locals business are very accommodating of families with young children; even in the hippest of coffee shops and restaurants you’ll find a high-chairs and play-areas set aside for the kids. Reykjavík has much to offer visitors at affordable prices – sometimes even for free! Below are our top ten recommendations for active families and curious kids to enjoy while visiting Reykjavík. There are plenty of family-friendly events on the festival calendar too. Firm favourites include the Children’s Culture Festival (April), First Day of summer (April), the Festival of the Sea (June), Independence Day (June 17), and Reykjavík Culture Night (August).

REYKJAVÍK – CAPITAL AREA

number of high standard chefs and an astounding variety of restaurants, offering both Icelandic and international cuisine. Icelandic cuisine is characterized by an imaginative use of pure Icelandic ingredients such as fresh seafood, organic lamb and wild game. Be sure to try the Icelandic hotdog. Reykjavík also boasts a great café culture, with locals regularly meeting friends and family for coffee, cake and conversation. It’s all about simple food at affordable prices.

amilies will find plenty of interesting activities in Reykjavík. Whether it’s splashing around in a thermal pool, trying on Viking armour, or viewing some of the largest mammals on Earth in close range, there’s fun to be had for all ages in the city. Visiting families will be relieved to discover that Reykjavík is particularly family friendly, with a safe and clean city, that’s simple to navigate on foot with easy access to nature.

9 Go horseback riding through picturesque valleys and rocky lava fields on the unique Icelandic horse.

Watch bubbling hot springs and roaring waterfalls on a daytrip from Reykjavík.

0 Be dazzled by the multi-coloured Christmas lights, skate on Tjörnin pond, start a snowball fight and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the unforgettable Northern Lights.

www.icelandtoday.is

Visit the ongoing children’s workshop at Kjarvalsstadir museum and don’t miss the beautiful nature paintings from Iceland’s most beloved painter, Kjarval.

Opening hours June 1- September 15 Daily 08:30-19:00 September 16 - May 31 Weekdays: 09:00-18:00 Saturdays: 09:00-16:00 Sundays: 09:00-14:00

The Official Tourist Information Center one stop for a great vacation

eykjavikis so much more than just a destination; it’s a place of exciting possibilities surrounded by incredible landscapes, where countless adventures beckon and a host of natural wonders await. Whether you’re seeking the bustling energy of a cosmopolitan city, the thundering thermal energy in the ground beneath your feet, or the quiet green energy of the surrounding landscapes, Reykjavík promises a unique experience for all who visit. Reykjavík Tourist Information Center | Aðalstræti 2, 101 Rvik. Tel: (+354) 590 1550 www.visitReykjavík.is | info@visitReykjavík.is | facebook.com/visitReykjavík

WELCOME CARD

Available for 24, 48 or 72 hours

he Reykjavík Welcome Card offers great value for your money by giving you free admission to all of Reykjavík’s thermal pools, a great many museums and other attractions, unlimited travel on Reykjavík buses, discounts at shops and restaurants and free Internet access.

Reykjavík Tourist Information Center Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík ITA: Radisson Saga & Skarfabakki harbor information and service center Icelandic Travel Market Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavík Trip.is Laugavegur 54, 101 Reykjavík Reykjavík Excursions at BSÍ bus terminal Vatnsmýrarvegi, 101 Reykjavík Hafnarfjörður Tourist Info Centre Strandgata 6, 220 Hafnarfjörður Reykjavík City Hostel Sundlaugavegur 34, 104 Reykjavík Loft Hostel Bankastræti 7, 101 Reykjavík

Your Perfect day Hotel Nordica & Hotel Natura Downtown Hostel Vesturgata 17, 101 Reykjavík Hlemmur Bus station 105 Reykjavík Volcano House Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík Hótel Hafnarfjörður Reykjavíkurvegur 72, 220 Hafnarfjörður Reykjavík Campsite in Laugardalur Sundlaugarvegur 32, 104 Reykjavík Reykjavík Backpackers Hostel Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavík Reykjavík Art Museums, National Museum of Iceland & Maritime Museum.

Free Admission to:

WELCOME CARD

Reykjavík City Buses - www.bus.is Hlemmur, 105 Rvk | tel. 540 2700 The Reykjavík Welcome card provides unlimited free travel within zone 1. Schedules and other information are available at Tourist Information Centers and on www.bus.is

National Museum of Iceland - www.natmus.is Suðurgata 41, 101 Rvk. tel. 530 2200 | May 1st September 15th, Open daily 10:00-17:00 | Sept 16th - April 30th open Tuesdays - Sundays 11:00-17:00 National Art Gallery - www.listasafn.is Fríkirkjuvegur 7 – 101 Reykjavík tel. 5159600 Open daily 11:00-17:00, closed Mondays. The Culture House - www.thjodmenning.is Hverfisgata 15, 101 Rvk tel. 545 1400 | Open daily 11:00-17:00 Reykjavik Art Museum - Hafnarhus www.artmuseum.is Tryggvagata 17, 101 Rvk. | tel. 5901200 | Open daily 10:00-17:00 Thursdays 10:00-20:00 Reykjavik Art Museum - Kjarvalsstadir - www.artmuseum.is Flókagata, 105 Rvk. | tel. 5171290 | Open daily 10:00-17:00 Reykjavik Art Museum - Asmundarsafn - www.artmuseum.is Sigtún, 105 Rvk. | tel. 553 2155 Open daily May 1st - September 30th daily 10:00-17:00, October 1st - April 30th Open daily 13:00-17:00 The Settlement Exhibition - www.reykjavik871.is Aðalstræti 16, 101 Rvk. |tel. 411 6370 Open daily 10:00-17:00 Árbæjarsafn - The Reykjavík City Museum - www.arbaejarsafn.is Kistuhylur, 110 Rvk|tel. 411 6300|Open daily during summer from 10:00-17:00. During winter season (September 1st - May 31st) visits by guided tours only | Guided tours every day during the week at 13.00 or by appointment. Víkin - The Reykjavík Maritime Museum - www.sjominjasafn.is Grandagarður 8, 101 Rvk. tel. 517 9400 | Open June 1st - September 15th daily 10:00-17:00 from September 16th - May 31st Tue. Sun. 11:00-17:00

The ferry to Viðey Island - www.elding.is Skarfabakki Pier, 104 Rvk tel. 533 5055 information on schedule on their website or at your nearest Tourist Information Center. free Internet Access at the Tourist Information Center in Aðalstræti

Harpa - www.harpa.is 25% disc. off the guidedHarpa tour Austurbakki 2, 101 Rvk. | tel. 528 5000 Aurora Reykjavík - www.aurorareykjavik.is 10% discount at the Northern Lights Centre Grandagarður 2 | 101 Reykjavík| tel. 820 1658 The Icelandic Phallological Museum - www.phallus.is 10% disc. off the admission Laugavegur 116, 101 Rvk. | tel. 561 6663 Saga Museum - www.sagamuesum.is 10% disc. off the admission Perlan, 105 Rvk. tel. 511 1517 Fish Company - www.fishcompany.is 10% disc. off the menu Grófartorg, 101 Rvk. tel. 552 5300 Handknitting Association - www.handknit.is Buy a hand knitted Sweater - get Varma socks free Skólavörðustígur 19, 101 Rvk | tel. 552 1890 Íshestar - www.ishestar.is 15% disc. off Lava tour at 14:00 Sörlaskeið 26, 220 Hafnarfjörður | tel. 555 7000 Iceland Excursions - www.grayline.is 25% disc. off AH10 Greater Area Reykjavík Sightseeing (AH10) Hafnarstræti 20, 101 Rvk. tel. 540 1313 Life of whales - www.lifeofwhales.is 10% discount Ægisgarði 1, 101 Reykjavík | tel. 562 2300 Volcano HOuse - www.volcanohouse.is 20% discount of cinema tickets and of all coffee drinks Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykajvík | tel. 555 1900 Elding- www.elding.is 10% disc. off all tours Ægisgarður 7, 101 Rvk | tel. 555 3565 Season Tours Bikes & Scooters - www.about-iceland-tours.com 10% discount off tours tel. 863 4592 | Ægisgarður 7a, 101 Rvk Special Tours - www.specialtours.is 10% disc. off tours Geirsgata, 101 Rvk | tel. 892 0099

www.icelandtoday.is

Reykjavík zoo and Family park - www.mu.is Hafrafell v/Engjaveg, 104 Rvk. tel. 411 5900 | Open daily from 10:00 - during summer until 18:00 and during winter until 17:00

Get Discounts at:

REYKJAVÍK – CAPITAL AREA

Reykjavík City Thermal Pools - www.itr.is Free admission to all 7 thermal pools in Reykjavík.

DISCOVER CULTURE Kópavogur

ópavogur translates as “baby seal bay”, and is Iceland’s second largest town. Only a stone’s throw from Reykjavík, the town boasts a number of remarkable sights and out-of-the-ordinary buildings including a modern dome-shaped church, the Smáralind shopping centre, and the Salurinn concert hall – a stunning example of contemporary Icelandic design, constructed of driftwood sourced from around the coast of Iceland. The city also affords stunning views over the ocean, mountains and the rest of the capital area, which makes it a prime perch for viewing the fireworks on New Year’s Eve! The Gerðarsafn Art Museum houses an impressive collection of Icelandic art, including about 1,400 pieces by sculptor Gerður Helgadóttir (the museum’s namesake) and 300 works by Barbara and Magnús A. Árnason. Tue-Sun, 11:00-17:00 Hamraborg 4, Tel. (+354) 570 0440 gerdarsafn.is

If you’re nuts about nature or fascinated by the formation of Iceland, then your thirst for knowledge can be filled to satisfaction at the Natural History Museum – one of the leading natural science institutes in Iceland. The museum hosts exhibitions, with an emphasis on geology and Icelandic wildlife, including the arctic fox and numerous species of fish and birds. It also has an “extraordinary” (as described by David Attenborough, when he

Salurinn

visited in 2005) exhibition of Japanese style “Marimo” lake balls. Science fans will also want to check out the Borgarholt coastal preserve just a short walk away. Mon-Thu10:00-19:00, Fri 11:00-17:00, Sat 13:00-17:00 and Sun closed 13:00-17:00. Free admission. Hamraborg 6A, Tel. (+354) 570 0430 natkop.is

The Kópavogur thermal pool is a great place for young families, with a swimming pool, several hot tubs and a sauna. There is also a Nautilus gym on the grounds. Mon-Fri 6:30-22:00, Sat and Sun 08:00-20:00 Borgarholtsbraut 17, Tel. (+354) 570 0470

Another great place to make a splash is the Versalir thermal pool and gym. As one of the newest facilities in the capital area, it’s well worth a visit. If you’d rather work up a sweat then you could visit Nautilus gym onsite. Mon-Thu 6:30-22:00, Sat and Sun 10:00-20:00. Versölum 3, Tel. +354.570 0480 The Hamraborg area is serviced by bus no. 1

Natural History Museum

Off the Map While many visitors keep themselves to central Reykjavík’s shops and attractions, there is an entire world beyond the borders of the downtown area. Iceland’s capital region abounds with adventures and sights for you to explore in its outlying communities. Reykjavík certainly has much to offer, but so do its closest neighbours: museums, arts and design, archeological sites, cafés and restaurants, horseback riding, nature preserves, a farmer’s market, nature walks and thermal pools galore. Get off the tourist map and discover life beyond Reykjavík in these quaint villages and towns along the capital region’s coast.

hafnarfjörður the town in the lava

he charming town of Hafnafjörður T – meaning “harbour fjord” – is a prosperous fishing town just south of

Reykjavík and home to a population of around 26,500 people, plus an undisclosed number of elves! Although the town remains a significant trading post, it’s probably best known for its annual Viking festival in June, where residents gather to celebrate Iceland’s fascinating Viking heritage. Because of its unique location in a 7,000 year old lavafield this harbour town is a complete scenic treasure with numerous beautiful sights.

CONNECT WITH CULTURE

A perfect day in Hafnafjörður could begin with a soak in one of the town’s three thermal pools, a quick jaunt to the lively habour area followed by a walk to the bustling towncentre. If you happen to detect the delightful smell of coffee, then your nose might just lead you to a lovely café, where skilful baristas work their coffee-making magic.

summer and the annual Viking festival (14 – 17 of June). During Christmas, the town centre is transformed for the festivities into a charming Yuletide village, with a Christmas market and live entertainment.

EXHIBITIONS

If you’d like to get acquainted with the town on a deeper level, then a trip to the Hafnarfjörður Museum is a must. The main museum houses two permanent exhibitions; one dedicated to the town’s colourful history, while the other presents a quirky exhibition of antique children’s toys. If you don’t mind going the extra mile then there are also some offsite exhibitions housed in a number of buildings and outposts around Hafnarfjörður–ask museum staff for details. Open daily from 11-17 June, July and August. Free admission. Another attraction can be found at the Hafnarborg Institute of Culture & Fine Arts, offering a diverse program of art exhibitions

REYKJAVÍK – CAPITAL AREA

Next door to Reykjavik

TOWN FESTIVALS

Hafnarfjörður has its own collection of festivals, including “Bright Days” (31 May 2 June 2013), celebrating the arrival of

The Hidden Worlds tour

and music events. Open daily 12:00-17:00. Thu 12.00-21:00. Closed on Tue. hafnarborg.is

Hafnarfjörður is famous for being home to one of the largest settlements of elves and dwarves in Iceland. Since they themselves are very good at hiding, tours of their dwellings can be booked with local guides, who will engage you with fascinating

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THE HIDDEN PEOPLE

folk tales of their magical hidden worlds.

Hellisgerði Lava Park

Tucked away on a quiet street in Hafnarfjörður is the enchanting Hellisgerði Park, known for its population of elves or hidden people. Inside the park, a pathway twists past a lovely pond and in-between some lava rocks, which buckle and fold into tiny caves and mysterious nooks. Whether they’re draped in emerald coloured moss or dressed in a fresh coat of snow, the rocks of this park and the stories surrounding them are captivating.

Krýsuvík

For those who’d rather spend time in the company of Mother Nature, a trip to the solfatara fields of Krýsuvík will reward you

with an afternoon of lasting impressions and an education in geology. Here you’ll discover an expanse of steaming volcanic vents and boiling hot springs, framed dramatically by a range of multi-coloured hills. The massive solfatara, steaming away on the hilltop is a tempting attraction, even for those with tired legs, and the spectacular view of the surrounding area is well worth the extra legwork! As a short side-trip, you can also explore the coast where you’ll discover the stunning cliffs of Krýsuvíkurbjarg–an area renowned for its rich birdlife. visithafnafjordur.is 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavík, bus no. 1

seltjarnarnes

Nesstofa

nature & cultural heritage

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

Since much of the town is located within a beautiful nature reserve, it attracts many of the locals, who make use of its excellent recreational areas and the extensive walking and cycling paths encircling the entire peninsula. Its unobstructed views, of the setting sun and the impressive Snæfellsjökull glacier, make it a major romantic destination and magnet for travellers and photographers alike. During the winter, the areas around the coastline become a perfect platform for viewing the magnificent Northern Lights and maybe a shooting star or two! The most visible landmark is the old lighthouse on Grótta Ísland, where you’ll find unending sea-views and a wealth of birdlife. Observe that during

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

the nesting season Grótta is closed from 1st of May until 1st of July.

Another popular stop in Seltjarnarnes is the nine-hole golf course with exceptional ocean views and a nice clubhouse, where players can rent equipment and buy refreshments. seltjarnarnes.is Serviced by bus no. 11

garðabær THE GARDEN TOWN

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

built in 1923 on the foundations of an earlier turf building. If you’re curious to find out what the accommodation of the working class was like in this area during the first half of the twentieth century, then Krókur will leave you fully informed! Open on Sundays in June - August from13:00-17:00. Free admission. The Álftanes peninsula, just south of the city centre, is characterised by its magnificent pastoral setting by the sea. Apart from it being home to the ancient farmstead of Bessastaðir–the official

REYKJAVÍK – CAPITAL AREA

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

Bessastaðir

Art and design have a long history in Iceland some of which has been preserved in the Museum of Design & Applied Art at Garðatorg –the town centre. The Museum’s objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts from the 1900’s

Another historical sight worth a visit is Krókur at Garðaholt, a small gabled farmhouse clad with corrugated iron and

gardabaer.is Serviced by bus no. 1 + 23 + 24

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to the present day and is the only museum of its kind. Today the collection is comprised of countless objects: furniture, items of product design, pottery, and glassware, clothing and graphic design. New exhibitions open regularly and creative souvenirs can be purchased from Kraum –a design shop situated in the museum. Daily 12:00-17:00, closed Mondays. Garðatorg 1, Tel. (+354) 512 1525. honnunarsafn.is

presidential residence of Iceland, another major attraction is the new Álftaneslaug thermal pool, featuring the largest waterslide in the country and Iceland’s one and only wave pool. If you’re a fan of the outdoor life and love to stretch your legs, then Álftanes is also a walkers’ paradise with trails spanning around 9km (5, 1/2 miles) around the unique shoreline. Those who are fascinated by the more feathery residents of Reykjavik will also be pleased to discover that the shoreline is filled with clear ponds bustling with migratory birdlife!

mosfellsbær natural living

ith unending vistas of unspoiled nature at its doorstep, Mosfellsbær, just north of Reykjavík, appreciates life in the arms of the majestic Esjan mountain range.

Apart from numerous mountain trails set in the beautiful surroundings, the town has a number of great sports facilities with an impressive golf course, two swimming pools, plus a system of well-marked hiking and biking paths that link up to the trails in Reykjavík. Other recreational activities include fishing, horse riding, climbing and bird-watching. During the summer months, weekends in Mosfellsbær are always bustling with life, thanks to an organic green market held in Mosfell Valley. This is where local farmers sell their wonderful fresh flowers, homemade jams, pestos and chutneys. The family friendly atmosphere is often enlivened further with the addition of live music. Lovers of Icelandic literature will not want to miss-out on a visit to Gljúfrasteinn, the home of Iceland’s Nobel laureate Halldór Laxness (1902-1998), whose home has now been converted into a museum.

Organic Market

If you’re a fan of those lovely Icelandic woolen jumpers known as lopapeysur, you’ll be interested to know that Mosfellsbær is the cradle of the wool industry in Iceland, with Álafoss - the leading manufacturer and exporter of Icelandic wool products located close to the town centre. The town is serviced by bus no.15. visitmosfellsbaer.is

Meðalfellsvatn

Kjós discover the great outdoors

jós is a flourishing agricultural community north of Reykjavík. It´s a great place for all kinds of outdoours activities, including hiking, horsebackriding and fishing.

There are many attractions in Kjós, including Hvalfjarðareyri, a prime spot for bird watching, Staupasteinn stone, the home to the eponymous hermit who protects the Hvalfjörður tunnel. To name a few other sights there are Þórufoss falls, the ancient

Maríuhöfn harbor and the military outpost remaining at Hvítanes. In Kjós you will find farmers accomodations and a shop which offers local products. Kjós is a popular spot for summerhouses because of its scenic surroundings. You will find more information at www.Kjos.Is and www.Kjosarstofa.Is Although Kjós is not accessible by bus, the area can be reached by car, by taking route 1 north out of Reykjavík and then route 47 at the Hvalfjörður tunnel.

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

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

ost of Reykjavík’s art collections focus on Icelandic artists, although there are some collections that include foreign artists as well. Reykjavík galleries range from the sublime to the ridiculous. There tends to be a lot of overlap between art, design and retail. In fact, some collections are housed within shops. But don’t let this stop you. You are just as likely to find interesting work

there as in any other gallery. Check out the websites provided here for more information on exhibition schedules, guided tours and events. You can also find up-to-date information at all Reykjavik Tourist Information Centres.

national gallery of iceland

EXHIBITIONS ROOMS EDUCATIONAL CENTRE – on ground floor GALLERY SHOP – Artbooks and giftware Opening hours open daily / closed mondays summer (1.6. – 31.8.) 10 am – 5 pm winter (1.9. – 31.5.) 11 am – 5 pm guided tours guided tours on the exhibitions, see the webpage of the national gallery of iceland, www.listasafn.is Fríkirkjuvegur 7, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 515 9600 e-mail: list@listasafn.is www.listasafn.is

The National Gallery of Iceland, established in 1884, is the principal art museum of Iceland. Its art collection consists mainly of works of 19th and 20th century art. In its possession are many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. The National Gallery’s main role is to collect, preserve, research and exhibit Icelandic art and offer education about it. A considerable emphasis is also laid on showing Icelandic art in context with international art. The museum sees it as one of its priorities to educate visitors about exhibitions and single art works, by means of texts, guidance, meetings with artists and a databank which is accessible through computers in the National Gallery’s education centre. Guided tours in june & july guided tour in english,

Special guided tours and guidance in foreign languages by agreement

fridays 12:10-12:40 am

tel. for scheduling 515 9612 / 515 9600

V is m u it Ice s e u lan m s d´s la in thr rges t ee u n netw iqu o e b rk o u i l f ar din t gs

25 MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

Open Daily

One Ticket - Three Museums

Hafnarhús

Kjarvalsstaðir Flókagata, 105 Rvk. Open 10-17

Guided tour in English available every Friday at 11 a.m. in June, July and August at Kjarvalsstaðir www.artmuseum.is Tel: (354) 590 1200

Ásmundarsafn

Sigtún, 105 Rvk. May-Sept. Open 10-17 Okt.-Apr. Open 13-17

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Tryggvagata 17, 101 Rvk. Open 10-17 Thursdays 10-20

national museum of iceland The oldest Museum in Iceland celebrates it‘s 150th anniversary this year. The Museum features an engaging exhibition on two floors that traces Iceland‘s cultural history from its settlement in the 9th century to modern days. The Museum is full of puirky artefacts, flashy interactive exhibits and loads of information. You can explore heathen graves, trace the DNA of modern Icelanders to their ancestors, learn about magical rune sticks and even admire a national costume made entirely of clear plastic! Þessi texti fyrir neðan sér með mynd af silfurhólkum: To commemorate the 150th annirversary a new exhibition on various silver items made in Iceland will be open for the whole year in the museum‘s Arc Hall. Various silver objects from a long period of Iceland‘s history are shown at the exhibition where the focus is on the methods used to create them.

Guided tours in english are offered at 11 o‘clock, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1.May-15. September.

Opening hours: May 1st - September 15th: Daily 10:00 - 17:00 September 16th - April 30th: Daily except Mondays 11:00 - 17:00 Wheelchair Accessible Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: + 354 530 2200 www.nationalmuseum.is Buses no. 1, 3, 6, 11, 12 & 14

árbæR Open Air museum

Opening hours: June 1st – August 31st 10:00 - 17:00 Sept 1st – May 31 st Guided tour every day at 13:00 Kistuhylur 110 Reykjavik Tel.: +354 411 6300 www.reykjavikmuseum.is

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

If it weren’t for the traffic sounds from a nearby highway, standing in the middle of Árbær Open Air Museum is like going back in time. The museum has collected household items, costumes and even entire houses to reconstruct this open air, living museum. The grounds are roughly divided into a town square, a village and farm, with staff in period costumes milling around and talking to the guests. There are also special demonstrations that highlight certain activities like various crafts, farming methods or even how to properly milk a cow. The Árbær Open Air Museum collects and conserves objects from Reykjavík cultural history and carries out research on them, and promulgates knowledge of the history and living conditions of the people of Reykjavík from the settlement Age to the present day.

Adults (18+) - 1200 ISK Bus no. 5, 6, 12, 19 & 24

reykjavík 871±2

Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 - 17:00

Adults (18+) - 1200 ISK Bus no. 1, 3, 6, 11, 12, 13, & 14

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Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavik Tel.: +354 411 6370 www.reykjavik871.is

While digging the foundation for Hotel Reykjavík Centrum in downtown Reykjavík, the workmen uncovered a 10th century longhouse. Instead of halting construction of the hotel, those imaginative Icelanders decided to build an exhibition around the site focusing on Iceland’s settlement. Further investigation of the area turned up a wall dating from 871 (plus or minus two years), which is among oldest relic of human habitation in Iceland. In addition to the ruins, the exhibition utilizes an impressive digital interface (imagine something between a history museum and Star Trek). The museum store is also impressive, with clever items made especially for the museum by two local graphic designers.

GLJÚFRASTEINN – LAXNESS MUSEUM

Opening hours Summer: Every day 9.00 – 17.00 September 1 st – May 31st: Tue - Sun: 10.00 – 17.00 Closed during weekends from November until the end of February but group tours are available by appointment. Admission Adults: ISK 800,Seniors, disabled and students: ISK 500,Children under 18: Free admission

Halldór Laxness was one of Iceland’s most respected authors and was prolific in his writing, producing 62 books over 68 years. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955. Gljúfrasteinn was the home and workplace of Halldór Laxness and his family for more than half a century. In 2004 it was opened to the public as a museum, unchanged from when Laxness lived there. In the reception building you can watch a multimedia presentation dedicated to Laxness’s life and work. Tickets for admission, books and souvenirs are also sold there. In the beautiful countryside around Gljúfrasteinn, visitors can take walks as part of their visit, to see where Laxness spent his childhood and later in life sought his inspiration. Audio tours of the house are available in Icelandic, English, German, Swedish and Danish and a folder in French. Gljúfrasteinn is only in about 25 minutes distance from Reykjavík city center and is on the way to Þingvellir National Park.

www.gljufrasteinn.is gljufrasteinn@gljufrasteinn.is facebook.com/laxness.museum twitter.com/gljufrasteinn The reception and the first floor are accessible for wheelchairs.

reykjavík maritime museum The museum is situated in Reykjavik’s picturesque active fishing harbour, only a 10-minute walk from the city centre. Enjoy the fantastic view of the boats, fishermen and birdlife before entering the museum. For centuries Icelanders depended heavily on fishing and the sea for survival, and as a result the country has a long and rich maritime history. In the Reykjavik Maritime Museum you can explore this history, including beautiful ship-models, realistic scenery as well as both dried and live fish! The magnificent Coast Guard Vessel Óðinn, who took part in all three cod wars, is a part of the museum, docked outside in the beautiful harbour. A wonderful place for a fun day out with family or friends!

Opening hours: June 1st - September 15th Daily 10:00-17:00 September 16th - May 31st Tue - Sun 11:00-17:00 Grandagarður 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: +354 517 9400 www.maritimemuseum.is Adults - 1200 ISK Free for children up to 18

Guided tours of the ship are offered at th following times 1 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm.

Bus no. 14

Reykjavík Museum of Photography

EXHIBITIONS

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

29 MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

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

Opening hours: Offices and museum shop open weekdays from 10:00 – 16:00 Exhibitions open Monday – Thursday from 12:00 – 19:00 and friday from 12:00 – 18:00 Weekends from 13:00 -17:00 Reykjavík Museum of Photography Grófarhús – Tryggvagata 15, 6.floor, 101 Reykjavík Tel: 411-6390 www.photomuseum.is photomuseum@reykjavik.is Free admission

Reykjavík Botanic Garden - Grasagarður Reykjavíkur

Laugardalur, 104 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 411 8650 e-mail: botgard@reykjavik.is www.grasagardur.is www.facebook.com/grasagardur.is Free admission

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Opening hours: Summer (May 1st – September 30th) 10:00 – 22:00 Winter (September 1st – April 30th): 10:00 – 15:00 (The display greenhouse is closed December 24th, 25th, 26th, 31st and January 1st)

The Botanic Garden is an outdoor collection of living plants. The garden´s main role is to conserve plants for education, research and delight. It conserves some 5000 plant species in eight plant collections. The collections give an idea of the enormous diversity of vegetation in the northern temperate zone. In summer there is a variety of events in the Botanic Garden and group receptions are available throughout the year. Café Flora is open in the display greenhouse from May to September and at Advent weekends in December. The Café is popular and well known for its delicious treats with ingredients grown in the garden and served in beautiful surroundings.

MUSEUMS ASÍ Art Museum Freyjugata 41, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 511 5353, www.listasafnasi.is The Icelandic Labour Union’s collection of Icelandic art from many of Iceland’s most beloved painters. Einar Jónsson Museum Eiríksgata , 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 3797, www.lej.is Next to Hallgrímskirkja church sits this former home of master sculptor Einar Jónsson (1874-1954), Iceland’s first sculptor. Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4, 202 Kópavogur Tel. (+354) 570 0442, www.gerdarsafn.is The Gerdarsafn Art Museum in Kópavogur houses an impressive collection of Icelandic art. Some of the most well known collections include about 1,400 pieces by sculptor Gerdur Helgadóttir (after whom the museum is named), and 300 works by Barbara and Magnús A. Árnason. Tue-Sun, 11:00-17:00.

Gerðuberg Cultural Centre Gerðubergi 3-5, 111 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 575 7700, www.gerduberg.is Gerðuberg is an all-round cultural centre run by the City of Reykjavík, offering a varied programme of cultural events for people of all ages. Hafnarborg Strandgata 34, 220 Hafnarfjörður Tel: (+354) 585 5790, www.hafnarborg.is The Hafnarfjörður Institute of Culture and Fine Arts exhibits the work of contemporary artists from both Iceland and abroad, in addition to various other exhibitions. Music plays an important role in Hafnarborg’s program. The centre has hosted concerts by most of Iceland’s leading musicians, as well as visitors from abroad. Open daily 11:00-17:00. Closed on Tue.

Reykjavik Municipal Energy Museum Rafstodvarvegur, 110 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 516 6790 The Municipal Energy Museum is situated in the Ellidaar Valley opposite to the Ellidaar Power Station, which has supplied the capital with electricity since 1921. When the museum opened in 1990, its main goal was to depict the history of the electrification of the capital and the brilliant idea of using geothermal heat for heating houses. Saga Museum Öskjuhlíð, 105 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 511 1517, www.sagamuseum.is The Saga Museum presents a series of life-size dioramas using silicon figures cast from real Icelanders to depict famous moments from Iceland’s history.

Living Art Museum Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 4350, www.nylo.is The very distinctive character and history of Nylo have cemented its reputation as a unique place to produce and experience contemporary art.

Sigurjón Ólafsson Sculpture Museum Laugarnestangi 70, 105 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 553 2906, www.lso.is Housed in the artist’s former studio at Laugarnes in Reykjavík, the museum exhibits the artist’s work and information on his life.

Gallery List Skipholt 50a - 105 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 581 4020 www.galleylist.is Offering a wide selection of Icelandic contemporary art by a diverse range of acclaimed Icelandic artists.

Kolbrún S. Kjarval Skólavörðustígur 22, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 511 1197 www.ksk.kk5.org In the gallery you will find Kolbrún’s handmade ceramic designs and drawings among paintings by Louisa Matthíasdóttir, María S. Kjarval and Temma Bell.

GALLERIES Art Gallery Fold Rauðarárstígur 14-16, 105 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 0400 www.myndlist.is Art gallery and the largest auction house in Iceland. Art exhibitions are held regularly in the gallery. ART67 gallerí Laugavegur 67, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 511 6767 A colourful art gallery that offers a wide selection of modern art, paintings, ceramics and glass made in Iceland. Gallery Ágúst Baldursgata 12, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 578 2100 www.galleriagust.is Focus on contemporary work by Icelandic and foreign artists. Gallery Kogga Vesturgata 5, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 552 6036 www.kogga.is Kolbrún Björgólfsdóttir is among Iceland’s most respected ceramic artists. Gallery Lana Matusa ceramic studio Skolavordustigur 41 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 551 5799 www.svetlanamatusa.com Lava ceramics, famous “lava people “sculptures and all kinds of sculptural souvenirs with a strong expression of Icelandic nature.

Gallery of the Icelandic Printmakers’ Association Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 552 2866 www.islenskgrafik.is The gallery organizes exhibitions of its members’ work, usually focusing on one body of work. Hitt Húsið Pósthússtræti 3-5, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 411 5500 www.hitthusid.is Progressive gallery in the heart of the city. Gallery Hitt Húsið seeks to represent all the main movements that are active in the field of visual art. i8 Gallery Tryggvagata 16, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 3666 www.i8.is This is one of the more prominent galleries in Reykjavík, representing names like Ólafur Elíasson and Roni Horn as well as emerging artists. Space is small, but invariably is exhibiting something interesting. Kling & Bang Gallery Hverfisgata 42, 101 Reykjavík http://this.is/klingogbang Large exhibition space run by young Icelandic artists for young Icelandic artists.

Reykjavík Art Gallery Skúlagata 30, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 893 6653 www.reykjavikartgallery.is Features contemporary art by local artists. Art exhibitions are held regularly. Visit the web for opening hours. Smíðar og Skart Skólavörðustígur 16a, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 561 4090 Beautiful ceramic, glass and painted art from local Icelandic artists. Spark design space Klapparstíg 33, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 552 2656 www.sparkdesignspace.com Spark is a platform for various design projects with a focus on projects involving collaboration between designers and other professions. Food design plays an important role on the menu.

Discover Reykjavík’s Literary Side

Take a gentle stroll through the heart of Reykjavík, UNESCO City of Literature, with our free app, Literary Reykjavík, and discover the city’s literary secrets at your own pace. Introduction to Icelandic literature in English or German

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

Walking trail…

Arnaldur Indriðason Walking Trail Queer Literary Walking Trail www.cityofliterature.is

...and more Dark Deeds in Reykjavík. A guided walking tour in English every Thursday at 5 pm in June, July and August. Reykjavík City Library hosts a walking tour in downtown Reykjavík. Starting at 5 pm from the library in Tryggvagata 15. A tour at an easy pace that suits everyone. Free of charge.

www.borgarbokasafn.is

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shop ‘til you drop Past years difference in exchange rate (local crowns vs. all other currencies) has certainly made visitors get great value for their money, what used to cots $50 now only costs $25, on this consumerist little island. On top of this, most retailers offer tax-free service, which are meant to save you the local sales tax of 25,5%. Definitely check out the very best that Reykjavik has to offer of both international and local brands. If you’re a mall shopper, Reykjavík has two large shopping centres – Kringlan and Smáralind – but if the weather is nice, most people enjoy ducking in and out of the shops and cafés downtown, on Laugavegur and Skólavörðurstígur.

Downtown, 101 Reykjavík

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

Laugavegur, 101 Reykjavík

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

Skólavörðustígur, 101 Reykjavík Branching off Laugavegur and leading up to Hallgrímskirkja church is Skólavörðustígur, which is a bit quieter than Laugavegur as it has no bars. Instead you’ll find cozy coffeehouses, delicatessens, health food stores as well as

galleries and shops with an emphasis on crafts like woolens and ceramics. This is a great street for poking around and doing a puzzle over a cup of coffee.

Kringlan Mall, 105 Reykjavík

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

Smáralind Mall, 200 Kópavogur

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

NOTABLE The Kolaportið Flea Market

STORES

Open on weekends, Kolaportið is not your typical flea market. While some booths offer antiques, you’ll be better off thinking about this as a large, indoor garage sale with used clothes and appliances. You can buy some of the smellier food items (putrefied shark and dried fish) as well as breads, root vegetables and some fresh seafood. Open weekends all year from 11:00 - 17:00.

from Hlemmur.

Fríða frænka

“Aunt Fríða” offers a massive selection of Icelandic nostalgia, from typewriters and gramophones to bright plastic kitchenware from the 1960s. Although the staff can be a little prickly, if you’re looking for something with character, this is the place. Vesturgata 3, 101 Reykjavík

The unique creations of Hansína Jensdóttir have gained recognition for their bold finish and style. Her combinations of various metals such as silver, steel and gold enhance the contrast between Ice and Fire, which is apparent in her art. Icelandic stones add a further respendence to her jewellery and sculptures. Hansína’s jewellery is available at: Kraum, Gaga, Hilton Reykjavík Nordica, Hótel Reykjavík Natura, Radison Blu Hótel Saga and Rammagerðin.

Gullsmiðja Hansínu Jens

Tel.: +(354) 551 8448 | Mobile: +(354) 772 0977 www.hansinajens.is | hansina.jens@hansinajens.is

Reykjavík by Design L

ife on this frozen, rugged island in the middle of the ocean has not been easy—it demands a certain level of patience, an iron stomach, and most of all, a deep well of creativity and a knack for finding the humor in a tough situation. Icelandic design reflects these virtues in both its originality and sense of humor. In such a small place there are fine lines between Iceland’s communities centering on crafts, fine arts and design. And although it is still very much finding its feet, Icelandic design is beginning to develop a personality distinct from its Scandinavian brethren. The design you’ll find in city draws its inspiration from the essence of this place—materials that echo Icelandic nature like moss, lava and ice, and even the unique way Icelanders experience the world, from 24-hour daylight, black sand beaches and a treeless landscape, to the passage of time so far north on the globe.

Andersen & Lauth The story started back in 1908 when Mr. Ludvig Andersen opened his tailor shop in Reykjavík. Now 103 years later Andersen & Lauth is sold worldwide in many of the best world’s best boutiques. Lauagvegur 7, www.andersenlauth.com

E-LABEL & EVALIN It’s the answer for women

Aurum Designer Guðbjörg Kristín Ingvarsdóttir

Eygló started her own label in 2006 and today she is a part of 9 designers that co-owns the shop Kiosk on Laugavegur in Reykjavik. Her collections are timeless and often with a futuristic touch. You will always find something humours in her collection. Laugavegur 65

presents her distinct silver jewellery design relying on influences from natural forms like petals, insect wings and blossoms. Bankastræti 4, www.aurum.is

ANNA ÞÓRUNN HAUKSDÓTTIR

A talented and innovative product designer with a whole spectrum of great objects from home accessories to pieces of furniture. Bring a piece of Iceland to your home, so check out her collection at a design store or at www.annathorunn.is

Rudolf

Feed me

Iceland Design Center For hardcore design junkies, this should be your first stop. The center’s website keeps tabs on design events in the city as well as different shops and studios. The center also hosts the annual DesignMarch (in March) where the city’s most engaging designers are put under the spotlight all around the city. www.icelanddesign.is

who live life in the fast lane offering affordable clothing that is trendy. And just as wearable to work as to parties. With the right accessories E-label fits every occasion. Laugarvegur 32 www.shopelabel.com

Epal Epal’s collection focuses primarily on furniture, although there are certainly other pieces as well, mostly from Scandinavian designers. Epal recently opened a store in the newly inaugurated concert hall Harpa. Skeifan 6, www.epal.is HRIM Design House Established in 2010 by Tinna and Hrafnhildur, two Icelandic girls with a burning passion for architecture and design. Their design store puts emphasis on offering a fun and diverse selection of exciting, and innovative Icelandic design products. Hrim originally started out in Akureyri and recently they also decided to launch their second store in Reykjavik. Laugavegur 25, www.hrim.is

Young people are at the forefront of Reykjavík design, with DIY collectives and galleries popping up around the city. Eye-blistering clothing, animal-bone toys, evolving light fixtures, organic music boxes—Icelandic design is alive and kicking and ready to be discovered. The main street for crafts is Skólavörðurstígur, while you’ll find many of Iceland’s designers on Laugavegur.

SOUVENIR SHOP

SHOPPING

SHOP OF THE YEAR 2012

Laugavegur 1 ∙ Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 1 - 3 ∙ Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 104 ∙ Akureyri Adalstræti 27 ∙ Ísafjördur

info@the viking www.theviking.is

Ísfjördur

Akureyri Reykjavík

TAX FREE

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The viking:info

GUST

The name is the signature of founder and fashion designer Guðrún Kristín Sveinbjörnsdóttir, who started the brand in 1997. The shop has been a part of the downtown shopping area since the opening in 2003. GuSt designs are classic and timeless, modern and unusual, with unique details. Check out the very popular wool line from GuSt, made from Icelandic wool and manufactured in Iceland. Bankastræti 11, www.gust.is

Kirsuberjatreð A small store run by a

collective of ten female craftspeople and designers, including an impressive collection of ceramics. Check out their unusual music boxes. Vesturgata 4, www.kirs.is

Kraum An exhibition space and store run by

Icelandic designers for Icelandic designers. The collective actively seeks out designers ready to put their work into production. Their collection covers a broad range, priced to get Icelandic design into your home and not on museum shelves. Aðalstræti 10, www.kraum.is

Mýrin The home of Icelandic design and

original art at the shopping mall Kringlan and recently also at Geirsgata 9, by the old harbour. http://myrin-kringlunni.is

MINJA A nice little shop filled with fun and great looking gifts on the corner in front of the old Reykjavik Penalty House, from 1874. Icelandic design, mixed with well known foreign objects. Skólavörðustíg 12

BILITY Already a known design brand in

Iceland established in 2005 by Guðrún Lilja Gunnlaugsdóttir. Their inspiration is drawn form the nature along with Icelandic cultural roots; beautiful pieces of home decoration accessories are born to shine a little light into your heart. Available in all design and souvenir shops. Grandagarður 2, www.bility.is

Rakel Hafberg Collection Accessories, by definition, are all fashionable objects, which compose and define the style of a person. Rakel’s speciality is the use of chicken leather in various ways in her design. Laugavegur 37, http://rakelhafberg.com SPAKSMANNSSPJARIR Individualistic Icelandic fashion house inspired by the surroundings, the colours and textures of the Icelandic environment, and of course the people. Designs are classic utilitarian, yet beautiful and unique clothes that can be worn for years, rather than trend-based pieces -it’s about quality, not quantity-. Bankastraeti 11 www.spaksmannsspjarir.is ruli recht Born In Jerusalem, migrated like a broken sea bird and landed in Reykjavík Iceland. Designs with a blend of organic geometry and the digital fine. Bergstaðastræti 4, www.srulirecht.com Syrusson A young and innovative design studio that specializes in high-end furniture, lamps and other accessories. The collections are manufactured in cooperation with local manufacturers in Iceland. Siðumula 33, www.syrusson.is

Kraum Design Aðalstræti 10 in Reykjavik, home to Kraum Icelandic Design is simply filled with all the best of Icelandic design in an historical environment dating back to 1752. The building itself, considered to be the oldest still standing in the city centre, was built by Skúli Magnússon an 18th century industrial entrepreneur. Today centuries later the building has become a stunning design hub and retail outlet for the very best of Icelandic design, arts and crafts. In the bright, stylish and spacious store the lively and vibrant state of the local design scene is more than noticeable. Natural light from ceiling skylights floods the wooden floors and the fresh white walls of the store. Filled with a huge selection of products from children’s toys, raincoats to jewellery and everything in between. Ceramic vases, clothing, stationery and fish-skin lamps, dining

acessories are among the creatively designed items on sale. Kraum is a must see for anybody visiting Reykjavik tourists as well as locals. Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00-18:00 Saturday & Sunday: 12:00-17:00 Tel. (+354) 517 7797

A Tasty souvenir KATLA – SURGES OF INNER HEAT

SHOPPING

There‘s a new sensation in the Duty Free Store at Keflavik Airport and a great gift to bring home from Iceland.

Katla Vodka is 64° Reykjavik Distillery’s perfection of purity, distilled in small batches from finest rains and crystal clear glacial water. This combined with a purifying distilling process, gives the unique result of smooth Vodka. Katla Vodka draws its name from the mother of all Icelandic volcanoes. Katla is located in South Iceland, covered by the glacier Mýrdalsjökull. The water source for Katla Vodka derives from the mountain spring Kaldárbotnar. The exceptional clear water of this spring has been naturally filtered for year hundreds through the volcanic bedrock, securing the perfect purity for Katla. Katla Vodka has a very clean, watery fragrance that is reflected in the warm palate. The taste is considerably transparent but holds the slightest notes of smooth herbs. The finish is stunning, with just a touch of spice and a quick fade. Perfect to be served just neat on the rocks or for your favorite cocktail.

Dr. BRAGI

Dr. Bragi is a revolutionary skincare brand incorporating patented marine enzyme technology, his unique discovery and ‘super active’ ingredient. The late Dr. Jón Bragi Bjarnason PhD was Professorof Biochemistry at the University of Iceland and one of the World’s leading enzymologists. The diverse marine life of Iceland’s abundant sea waters inspired Dr. Bragi to scientifically explore marine enzymes. He dedicated his life to the study and therapeutic application of marine enzymes, achieving numerous awards, as well as global patents for his discoveries.

www.icelandtoday.is

The product line consists of Age Management Moisturiser, a versatile facial moisturiser that helps to reduce the signs of ageing by fighting the effects of environmental stress, preventing the breakdown of collagen and supporting optimal cell function. Dr Bragi’s multi-tasking enzymes make this product truly versatile; think serum, eye cream and moisturiser in one Intensive Treatment Mask, professional strength marine enzyme fabric mask, highly concentrated ensuring dramatic results. Face and Body Salvation, Versatile face and body mist for a top-to-toe enzymatic treatment, to swiftly repair and hydrate the skin. Bio Marine Exfoliant, a superior facial exfoliant packed with fossilised diatom algae and Witch Hazel to cleanse, brighten and renew.

Fashionable Fish W

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

Icelandic designers have begun exploring uncharted waters by ushering a new material into their designs: fish leather. The material has won popularity because of how it can be sustainably produced. In Iceland the leather is made from fish caught and processed for food. Iceland’s own Atlantic Leather has used their background in traditional tanning and leather to work fish leather into a durable, usable product. However, the skins themselves retain their own distinctive look: salmon creates a delicate, elegant texture, perch is much rougher with course scales, wolffish yields a smooth leather with its characteristic black spots, and cod, the pride of Iceland’s bounty, gives a variable texture with both rough and smooth areas. You can check out Iceland’s fish leather designs at shops like Kraum, Huld Store, Kirsuberjatréð, Atson Leathers and Eggert the Furrier.

Foot

Candy

As you might have noticed, Reykjavíkers are a painfully trendy bunch, from head to toe. Especially the toes, actually. Whether it’s hipster slip-ons or pinup-girl heels, if you’re tempted by the foot candy, let the mouthwatering and eye-popping begin! Some boutiques carry a full line, from low-cost labels to power brands, while others focus on one designer or vintage shoes. Whatever your taste and budget, you should be able to find something to tickle your tootsies.

HULD STORE

On this volcanic island in the North Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by fish, Huld Reykjavik has for a long time been a producer of fashion accessories composed mainly of fish leather and other natural materials. Browse, touch and feel the collection, which surely will lift your mood like a wave. Skólavörðustígur 4

Skór Laugavegur 49 This attractive shop carries a huge variety of designer footwear - shoes & boots, bags & accessories in different styles for women. Kron Laugavegur 48 With its happy coloured walls and waterfall of lights this beautifully designed shop stocks a fantastic selection of shoes from all over Europe. Kronkron Laugavegi 63B Shoes designed by the owners. Visiting the store is like coming into a sweets factory filled with goodies, focusing on young upcoming designers.

Mania Laugvegur 51 Heaps of shoes with heaps of heels and accessories in abundance. Skor.is Hipster designs, chucks, in-house brand “Crusers” with locally designed, cheap slip-ons.

41 SHOPPING www.icelandtoday.is

101 R EY K JAV ÍK – H A FNA R STR ÆTI 5 & SKÓL AVÖR ÐUSTÍGU R 10

Shear Genius

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

THE HAND KNITTING ASSOCIATION

The wool of the Icelandic sheep has been used to clothe Icelanders for centuries. And for good reason: it’s great stuff. Warm, waterproof, breathable and nearly indestructible. You’ll see the locals walking around in their lopapeysas, which is the traditional ring-neck sweater. The unique composition of the Icelandic wool consists of two types of fibers: inner fibers are insulating – fine, soft, retain warmth well. Outer fibers are water-repellent – long, glossy, keep water out of the garment. All Icelanders have one of these heavy-hitters in their cold-weather arsenal—most likely knit by their granny. But for those of us who don’t have an Icelandic granny, you’re in luck: There are grannies for hire all around the country, knitting like mad to keep the tourists warm.

mundi

Souvenir shopping Álafoss Factory Outlet Álafossvegur 23, 270 Mosfellsbær A 20-minute drive from Reykjavík. Woollen sweaters, gloves, mittens, caps and scarves, and other textile items like blankets.

Fótógrafí Skólavörðustígur 22, 101 Rvk Pictures from over 20 Icelandic photographers as well as posters, books, postcards and more.

Farmer’s Market Hólmaslóð 2, 101 Rvk Farmers Market has garnered attention from the design community for their modern renditions of the lopapeysa classic.

Founded in 1977 by a few women, who had used knitting to supplement their families income. Today active members are around 200 and their hand knitted woolen goods are sold in their store at Skólavörðustígur 19 www.handknit.is Guðmundur Hallgrímsson, Mundi, took Icelandic wool and design to new heights with his avant-garde collection just before hitting his twenties. Check Mundi’s Boutique at Laugavegur. www.mundivondi.net

Vík Prjónsdóttir

A knitting collective challenging the notions of wool we hold most dear! Ski masks (including handlebar moustache), knit seal pelts (like a snuggie, only infinitely cooler) and twosome blankets. www.vikprjonsdottir.com

HELENE

Helene Magnusson likes to put a new spin on old knitting traditions. http://icelandicknitter.com

Rammagerðin

Puffin

Hafnarstræti 19, 101 Rvk This 60-year-old tourist shop is one of the oldest and biggest.

Skólavörðustígur 10, 101 Rvk, Hafnarstræti 5, 101 Rvk A puffin heaven galore store filled with items dedicated to this little colourful Icelandic bird.

Iða Lækjargata 2a, 101 Rvk Photography books greeting cards, postcards, souvenirs and a variety of other gift items.

The Viking Laugarvegur 1 and Hafnarstræti 1, 101 Rvk Fun place for souvenirs with a wide range of traditional Icelandic memorabilia.

Thorvaldsen Bazar Austurstræti 4, 101 Rvk Run by a a charity organisation, is among the oldest shops in Reykjavík, from 1901, the Bazar specialises in souvenirs, handicrafts and woolen products, handknitted.

Sjóhatturinn Geirsgata 5c, 101 Rvk Down by the Old Harbour (the green shacks) with a selection of Icelandic crafts, woollen products and outdoor items.

43 SHOPPING

Located in the heart of Laugavegur. Carries the best of Icelandic design and creative brands from around the world!

Open every day of the week

• 456 5552

email: info@theviking.is www.hrim.is

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H ö n n u n a r h ú s

Laugavegi 25 / Tel: 553-3003

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EXPLORE ICELAND EXPLORE ICELAND

44Make your memories of Iceland come to life.

Visit the South, West, North and East part of Iceland in one location. Learn, feel and taste what Iceland has to offer in our Coffee house or browse the Icelandic design and Farmers food market. Experience Icelandic Make yourthe memories of culture Icelandthrough come tovarious life. events and food happenings. Visit the South, West, North and East part of Iceland in one location. Learn and Icelandic Learn,what feel Iceland and taste what Icelandtourism has to has offertoinoffer. our Coffee house Organise and book your travel plans all at one place. or browse the Icelandic design and Farmers food market. Experience the Icelandic culture through various Explore an hour. events Iceland and foodinhappenings. Located in the heart of Reykjavik. Learn what Iceland anddowntown Icelandic tourism has to offer. Organise and book your travel plans all at one place. Explore Iceland in an hour.

www.aroundiceland.is Located in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. aroundiceland@aroundiceland.is Laugavegur 18b, 101 Reykjavik

www.aroundiceland.is aroundiceland@aroundiceland.is

Laugavegur 18b, 101 Reykjavik

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SHOP TAX FREE & SAVE 46 MONEY REYKJAVÍK CITY Visitors to Reykjavík experince easily the pure energy at the heart of Icelnad’s capital city - weather from the boiling thermal heat underground, the natural green energy within the city and around it, or the lively culture and fun-filled nightlife. Think of the qualities of a great city-fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - Reykjavík has them in spades. It has the features of a modern, forward looking society which are complemented by a close connection to its beautiful nature. All tourists that have a permanent address outside Iceland are eligible for tax-free shopping. You must have a valid credit card when getting your refund prepaid and return the form back within time limits given in tax free instructions on your form/envelope (25-30 days, depending on wich tax free system you are using).

THERE ARE 3 GOLDEN RULES WHEN SHOPPING TAX-FREE:

1. Minimum purchase per store is isk 4,000.2. If the sales amount on a single tax-free cheque exeeds isk 34,501.- you must show the goods to customs and get a verification stamp. Stamp is never needed for woolen goods. 3. The tax-free cheque is valid for three months after the date of purchase.

47 SHOPPING

National

7 Museum

of Iceland

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Ófeigur gullsmiðja Handmade jewlery, clothes, hats and bags all made by the artist them selves. The 2nd floor houses exhibitons of contemporary arts. shop on-line - www.ofeigur.is Skólavörðustíg 5 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 1161

THE NUMBER 1 MUSIC STORE 48

IN EUROPE ACCORDING TO

LONELY PLANET SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍG 15, 101 REYKJAVÍK AND HARPA CONCERT HALL

49 SHOPPING www.icelandtoday.is AUSTURHRAUN 3 I BANKASTRÆTI 7 I KRINGLAN SHOPPING MALL I SMÁRALIND SHOPPING MALL

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FÍTON / SÍA

Icelandic design

Museum shop · The National Museum of Iceland Suðurgata 41 · 101 Reykjavík · Tel. 530 2200 · www.nationalmuseum.is

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Offering of clothing & other merchandise that reminds us of good old Iceland Visit our stores: 101 Reykjavík, Akureyri and Haukadalur. www.geysir.net

SOUVENIR SHOP 101 REYKJAVÍK HAFNARSTRÆTI 5 & SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 10

Laugavegur 7 101 Reykjavík tel. 551 3033

Opening Hours Mon-Thu. 10-18 Fri. 10-18.30 Sat. 10-17

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KRON | Laugavegur 48 | 101 Reykjavik | Tel. 551 8388 | www.kron.is

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feldskeri Skólavörðustígur 38 101 Reykjavík tel. 551 1121 www.furrier.is

Sﾃｦvar Karl is one of Icelandﾂｴs leading venue in fashion

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BE WARM BE WELL

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Þingholtsstræti 2-4 » 101 Reykjavík » Tel.: +354 561 9619 Fákafen 9 » 108 Reykjavík » Tel.: +354 568 7450 Austurvegur 20 » 870 Vík í Mýrdal » Tel.: +354 487 1250

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Opening Hours Mon-Thu. 10-18 Fri. 10-18.30 Sat. 10-17

KronKron | Laugavegur 63b | 101 Reykjavik | Tel. 562 8388 | webstore: kronkron.com

Welcome to gift and designstore

and gift-shop, in Iceland. Always good offers.

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One of the best know homeware

Welcome to TÉKK KRISTALL located at Laugavegur 178 in Reykjavík. www.tk.is

Location 17

Hotel Cabin

Lau

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Grand Hotel

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LAUGAVEGI 178

Hilton Hotel

CRISTALLERIA ITALIANA

Laugavegur 178 • 105 Reykjavík • +354 568 9955 • www.tk.is • tk@tk.is

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LAUGAVEGI 178

Our Master Watchmaker never loses his concentration

With his legendary concentration and 45 years of experience our Master Watchmaker and renowned craftsman, Gilbert O. Gudjonsson, inspects every single timepiece before it leaves our workshop. All the watches are designed and assembled by hand in Iceland. Only highest quality movements and materials are used to produce the watches and every single detail has been given the time needed for perfection. The quantity of watches produced is limited, giving them an exclusive and truly personal feel.

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Stella McCartney MM6 by Maison Margiela McQ by Alexander McQueen

Gk ReykjavĂk

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Scenes from the Fish Company

Wining & Dining in Reykjavík R

eykjavík's restaurant scene is emerging with a unique palate all of its own, embracing the fresh ingredients Iceland offers at home. Icelandic chefs are keen to bring different cultures and cuisines to the local table. A great many of outstanding kitchens can be found in Reykjavík with an eye to different flavours using Iceland’s own bounty of seafood, lamb, wild game, organic, greenhouse vegetables and topnotch dairy products. Although fine dining is still popular among Icelandic restaurants, many places offer the more traditional Icelandic “soul food”—fish balls, smoked lamb, plokkfiskur and rúgbrauð, mushy peas, red cabbage, salt cod steaks—the kind of hearty dishes you’d find the nation’s grandmothers cooking that definitely made a comeback in the last couple of years. On the other hand, a number of kitchens are taking those fresh Icelandic ingredients and applying them to completely different cuisines. You’ll find Spanish-style tapas made with local ingredients at Tapashúsið -the “TapasHouse”, by the harbour. And some of the best curries you’ve put in your mouth (seriously) are on the menu at Ghandi - Indian restaurant, next to the parliament square. Spilling onto that same square and its flowerbeds you find Café Paris, great food and good street-side peoplewatching “la vie est belle” Don’t forget to try some of the healthy places like the creative organic menu at Grænn Kostur-“The Green Choice” on Skólavörðustígur, or take a stroll down by the harbour for some of the fantastic places in the old green fishermen shacks. Try the famous lobster soup from Sægreifinn-“the SeaBaron” run by a retired fisherman, moreover the first cooking-pioneer in the area.

Local delicacies

Carnival in the Tapas House

COST INDICATOR For an idea of how much a standard dish will cost you, follow the dots! But remember, this is not an exact science...

• under 1.500 kr •• 1.500 - 2.500 kr ••• 2.500 kr +

If you’re looking to try a few typically Icelandic goodies, try hangikjot (smoked lamb), svið (seared lamb face), hákarl (putrified shark), brennivín (great as a chaser with hákarl), skyr – a delicious, high-protein yogurt-like substance, puffin or harðfiskur (dried fish strips).

EAT & DRINK

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BISTRO Café Paris •• Austurstræti 14, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 1020 www.caféparis.is Spilling onto Austurvöllur Square, this café is Reykjavik’s closest approximation of a Parisian brasserie and good street-side people-watching. Gata Food & Drink •• Laugavegi 3 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 527 0077 www.gata.is Geysir •• Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 517 4300 www.geysirbistrobar.is Stylish bistro situated in the dignified Geysir Building at the corner of Vesturgata and Aðalstræti. Hressingarskálinn • Austurstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 561 2240 www.hresso.is Laundromat Café • Austurstræti 9 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 587 7555 www.thelaundromatcafé. com Nauthóll bistro •• Nauthólsvegi 106 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 599 6660 www.nautholl.is Great place close to Reykjavik’s artificial beach Ostabúðin ••• Skólavörðustígur 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 562 2772 www.ostabudin.is

The Tapas House

Prikið • Bankastræti 12, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 2866 www.prikid.is Sólon •• Bankastræti 7a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 562 3232 www.solon.is Thorvaldsen •• Austurstræti 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 1413 www.thorvaldsen.is

FAMILY STYLE Askur Brasserie •• Suðurlandsbraut 4, 108 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 553 9700 www.askur.is Family-style steakhouse with an open kitchen. Iceland’s first barbeque restaurant. Grillhúsið •• Tryggvagata 20, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 527 5000 www.grillhusid.is Íslenska •• Hamborgarafabrikkan Höfðatúni 2, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 575 7575 www.fabrikkan.is

YOU HAVE TO TRY ... ... “ein með öllu“ a traditional hotdog with all the fixins’ including ketchup, mustard, remoulade sauce, topped off with fried and raw onions. This makes for a wonderful nightcap after a long night of dancing and drinking. Follow the crowds of locals to Bæjarins beztu stand near the harbour for the city’s best dogs.

Lauga-ás •• Laugarásvegur 1, 104 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 553 1620 www.laugaas.is Neighborhood restaurant featuring fish. Skólabrú ••• Pósthússtræti 17, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 1690 Brautarholt 22, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 1690 www.potturinn.is Relaxed atmosphere and delicious traditional Icelandic cuisine at reasonable prices in an old house from 1907. Potturinn og Pannan ••• Brautarholt 22, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 1690 www.potturinn.is Relaxed atmosphere and delicious traditional Icelandic cuisine at reasonable prices in an old house from 1907. Red Chili •• Laugavegur 176, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 562 6000 www.redchili.is A menu loosely based on Mexican food. Good for a quick bite.

President Clinton chillin at the Bæjarins bestu

EAT & DRINK

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Fljótt & gott BSÍ Coach Terminal

FRENCH / SCANDINAVIAN

Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 1288 www.fljottoggott.is If you suddenly find yourself craving seared sheep heads, this is the place to go. Open until 3am, this drive-thru serves late-night burgers and slices.

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Ruby Tuesday •• Skipholt 19, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 577 1300 www.rubytuesday.is

Fast food American Style • Tryggvagata 26, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 2700 www.americanstyle.is Burger chain. Hamborgarabúllan (“Búllan”) • Geirsgata 1, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 1888 www.bullan.is Crowded hut by the harbour and one of the best burger in town.

Hlöllabátar • Ingólfstorg, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 3500 www.hlollabatar.is Hotspot for late-night hoagies. Vitabar • Bergþórugata 21, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 7200 Neighbourhood bar with deliciously greasy burgers. Road House •• Snorrabraut 56, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 571 4200 www.roadhouse.is

Hótel Holt ••• Bergstaðarstræti 37, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 5700 www.holt.is The Gallery Restaurant at Hotel Holt is one of Iceland’s most renowned restaurants. The superb cuisine is inspired by French culinary tradition. An unforgettable experience. Perlan ••• Öskjuhlíð, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 562 0200 www.perlan.is Every city has their rotating restaurant, and this is Reykjavik’s in a fine-dining atmo. Munnharpan ••• Austurbakka 2 Tel.: (+354) 528 5111 www.munnharpan.is Located in the magnificent concert hall building, Harpa, with view overlooking the Reykjavík

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

1100

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 14 - 101 REYKJAVÍK - TEL: +354 571 1100

EAT & DRINK

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Gló •• Engjateigur 19, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 553 1111 www.glo.is Chic café with light, organic fare.

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www.kruska.is Serves vegetarian and chicken dishes and homemade bread with hummus recommended!

Garðurinn • Klapparstígur 37, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 561 2345 Small and friendly family-operated vegetarian restaurant.

Grænn kostur • Skólavörðustígur 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 2028 www.graennkostur.is Small vegan/vegetarian restaurant with good lunch specials.

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ga a Lin Hlalaf rs.-a- stræga t a Hv ta Sdöar n erfi ti lvgha +354-414 3060 G r jó KirkAjuus ar- stræti s t g a Ba óls www.happ.is happ@happ.is ata .g . Vasl t.turn ga Lin k lars str Vo ta Havstræ da æ ti .HEALTHY nKa erfi ti rga OPTIONS irrsktj sga ta Krúska •• tB ruæst m a t .sntk a i. . a Vo Bó str Suðurlandsbraut 12, 108 na Bragðgott æt kh rst i l. t m 3 ræ Templarasund Lau Reykjavík .st ti g v . Bó 571 Tel.: (+354) egu Tel.:a(+354) 557 5880 kh Spí1822 r t al a Skálho l. L s auG ltss t. r g ave t Bja g. s ý Spí rg T gur . tal.as t. Skálho r st. ltss Bja aGsrt. . t Bja g r thúsv e s Tý Ká . rg.s t. r Bja ast. r thúsv e Ká

Kryddlegin hjörtu •• Skúlagata 17, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 588 8818 www.kryddleginhjortu.is A bio-restaurant–bar–café with healthy and rich gourmet soups. Durum • Restaurant & Take-away Laugavegur 42, 101 Reykjavik Tel.: (+354) 445 7000 Lifandi Markaður •• Borgartún 24, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 585 8700 www.lifandimarkadur.is Health food store, restaurant and juice bar.

ICELANDIC / INTL 101 Bar ••• Hverfisgata 10, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 580 0101 www.101hotel.is Trendiest place in town, great service and delicious food.

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

Icelandic Cuisine

73 EAT & DRINK

Every day from 18:00

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Hugsa sér!

… or take a view at our Menu with a varity of Icelandic delicacies

1919 ••• Restaurant & Lounge Bar Pósthússtræti 2 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 599 1050 Snaps Bistro ••• Þórsgata 1, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 6677 www.braudbaer.is Fish and meat dishes as well as some well-loved smørrebrød. Brasserie Grand ••• Sigtúni 38 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 5148000 www.grand.is Einar Ben ••• Veltusund 1, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 5090 www.einarben.is Icelandic fine dining.

Kaffivagninn •• Grandagarður 10, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 5932 Situated on the harbour at Grandi, this place gets packed with dockworkers and sailors.

Viking Village ••• Strandgata 55, 220 Hafnarfjörður Tel.: (+354) 565 1890 www.vikingvillage.is

Kolabrautin ••• Austurbakka 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 519 9700 www.kolabrautin.is Great restaurant and bar at the 4th floor of Harpa Concert Hall

Austur-Indíafjelagið ••• Hverfisgata 56, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 3838 www.austurindia.is These dishes even bring BrickLane Brits to their knees.

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

Austurlandahraðlestin •• Hverfisgata 64a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 6007 www.hradlestin.is Same owners as above offer cheaper, take-out items.

Nítjánda ••• Smáratorgi 3 Tel.: (+354) 575 7500 www.nitjanda.is Great dining on the19th floor, overlooking the capital area

INDIAN

Gandhi Indian Restaurant ••• Pósthússtræti 17 101 Fish Market ••• Reykjavík Aðalstræti 12, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 1691 Tel.: (+354) 578 8877 Panorama ••• www.fishmarket.is Ingólfsstræti 1, 101 Reykjavík www.gandhi.is This local hotspot serves up Tel.: (+354) 551 5800 Kitchen rstaurant ••• ambitious global fusion cuisine. In the heart of the city centre Laugavegi 60 a with a breathtaking view and Tel.: (+354) 517 7795 friendly atmosphere. Friðrik V ••• www.kitchen-eldhus.is Laugavegi 60 sími 4615775 Restaurant Reykjavík ••• Saffran •• www.fridrikv.is Vesturgata 2, 101 Reykjavík Glæsibæ, Álfheimar 74, Great food in the very heart of Tel.: (+354) 552 3030 104 Reykjavík Reykjavik www.restaurantreykjavik.is Tel.: (+354) 578 7874 Healthy, fresh and exotic at a Gamla Vínhúsið •• Satt Natura Icelandair very reasonable price. Klapparstíg 38, 101 hótels ••• Rekjavik Nauthólsveg 52 Shalimar ••• Tel.: (+354) 565 1188 Tel.: (+354) 444 4050 Austurstræti 4, 101 Reykjavík www.gamlavinhusid.is www.sattrestaurant.com Tel.: (+354) 551 0292 Satt = “True” Icelandic food www.shalimar.is sourced from the best local Grillið ••• Indian - Pakistani restaurant farmers and fishermen. Hagatorg 1, 107 Reykjavík offers decent curries. Limited Tel.: (+354) 525 9960 buffet at lunch. www.grillid.is Slipp bar (Hótel Marína) ••• italian Mýrargata 2-8, 101 Reykjavík Höfninn – Harbour Tel.: (+354) 560 8000 restaurant ••• Caruso •• Geirsgötu 7c, 101 Reykjavik Brand new, zesty and affordable Þingholtsstræti 1, 101 bites next to the Reykjavik Dry +354 511 2300 Reykjavík Dock www.hofnin.is Tel.: (+354) 562 7335 Íslenski barinn •• Pósthússtræti 9, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 2020 www.islenskibarinn.is Serving up age-old recipes from the national table. Excellent daily lunch specials.

Tjarnarbakkinn, Iðnó ••• Vonarstræti 3, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 562 9700 www.idno.is The Lake Front Restaurant in one of the oldest buildings in Reykjavík, by Lake Tjörnin

www.caruso.is Located in the heart of the city, this cozy restaurant specializes in Italian style pizza, pasta, lamb and fish courses.

Deli veitingastaður •• Bankastræti 14 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 6000 www.deli.is

Hugsa sér!

EAT & DRINK

We just love it.

Aðalstræti 2 | 101 Reykjavík | Tel: +354 517 4300 | www.geysirbistro.is

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19.3.2013 11:

Enjoy

Steaks, fish´n chips, burgers, sandwiches and salads Grillhúsið Tryggvagötu - Phone + 354 527 5000 - www.grillhusid.is

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Hugsa sér!

All your favorites

Hornið ••• Hafnarstræti 15, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 3340 www.hornid.is The first pizzeria in Reykjavík. Ítalía ••• Laugavegur 11, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 4630 www.italia.is One of the better Italian options, this family-run place has a proper wood-fired pizza oven, and good pasta. La Luna ••• Rauðárstíg 37 Tel.: (+354) 577 3838 www. laluna.is Madonna veitingastaður ••• Rauðarárstíg 27-29 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (354) 445 9500 www.madonna.is

Pisa ••• Lækjargata 6b, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 7200 www.pisa.is Rossopomodoro ••• Laugavegur 40a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 561 0500 European chain offering basic Italian dishes. Uno – Cucina Italiana ••• Hafnarstræti 1-3 101 Reykjavík 561 1313 www.uno.is

mexican Culiacan • Suðurlandsbraut 4a, 108 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 533 1033 Fast-food burritos, part I. Serrano • N1 Hringbraut, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 7700 www.serrano.is Fast-food burritos, part 2.

Tabasco’s ••• Hafnarstræti 1-3, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 1980 www.tabascos.is The 3-course special is a great bargain.

middle eastern Ali-Baba•• Veltusundi 3b, 101 Reykjavík Suðurlandsbraut 4, 108 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 445 4445 Arabic fast food in the city centre Habibi, Kebab hús • Hafnarstræti 18, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 5858 Kebab-húsið • Austurstræti 3, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 534 5720 Grensásvegi 3, 108 Reykjavík www.kebabhusid.is

by the sea

and a delicios lobster

At the seashore the giant lobster makes appointments with mermaids and landlubbers. He waves his large claws, attracting those desiring to be in the company of starfish and lumpfish. > Only 45 minutes drive from Reykjavík Reykjavík Eyrarbakki

Stokkseyri

Eyrarbraut 3, 825 Stokkseyri, Iceland · Tel. +354 483 1550 Fax. +354 483 1545 · info@fjorubordid.is · www.fjorubordid.is

Spör ehf.

at Fjörubordid in Stokkseyri

77 EAT & DRINK

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Vox ••• Suðurlandsbraut 2, 108 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 444 5050 www.vox.is For a dressed-to-the-nines night out, VOX has built up a refined menu on the principals of the New Nordic Kitchen. VOX is worth the hassle as one of Iceland’s most progressive kitchens.

Rikki Chan • Kringlan 4-12, 103 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 568 4170 Food-court Chinese at the mall. Thai- matstofan •• Suðurlandsbraut 52 Tel.: (+354) 553 3080

PIZZA

Eldsmiðjan •• Bragagata 38a, 101 Reykjavík Geysir stræti 2 | 101 Reykjavík | Tel: +354 517 4300 | www.geysirbistro.is Laugavegur 81, 101 Asía •• Bistro & Bar Reykjavík Laugavegur 10, 101 Reykjavík With fresh ingredients straight Tel.: (+354) 562 3838 from the supplier, Geysir Bistro Tel.: (+354) 562 6210 www.eldsmidjan.is serves delicious meals with a www.asia.is 313.indd 13 19.3.2013 11:25 The locals’ favorite pizza place, focus on Icelandic specialties with A staple on Laugavegur, this an international twist. with a wood-burning oven and place was the first to convince Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavik Icelanders to eat with chopsticks. clever topping combinations.

ORIENTAL

www.geysirbistro.is

Nordic/ scandinavian

njoy 78

Dill - Nordic House ••• Sturlugata 5, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 1522 www.dillrestaurant.is At the Nordic House the founders All favorites of Dillyour have put together an inventive menu based entirely on ingredients and ways of cooking and eating from the Nordic region.

Steaks, fish´n chips, Fjalakötturinn ••• burgers, sandwiches Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 514 6060 and salads www.fjalakotturinn.is

Ban-Thai •• Laugarvegur 130, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 2444 A small family-run restaurant, Ban-Thai is an authentic Thai restaurant with personality.

Devito’s Pizza • Laugavegur 126, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 2244 www.devitos.is Most popular place for hot, late-night slices.

Krua Thai •• Tryggvagata 14, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 561 0039 www.kruathai.is Very popular Thai hole-in-the-wall with good and big lunch specials.

Domino’s Pizza take away • Skúlagata 23, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 581 2345 If you feel like staying in after a long day, this is a classic.

Naree Thai •• Frakkarstígur 12, 101 Reykajvík Tel.: (+354) 552 9944 New Nordic cuisine dishes www.nareethai.is made from-selected illhúsið Tryggvagötu Phone +Icelandic 354 527 5000 - www.grillhusid.is ingredients. Nings •• Suðurlandsbraut 6, 108 Jómfrúin •• Reykjavík 313.indd 3 Lækjargata 4, 101 Reykjavík 1 Tel.: (+354) 588 9899 Tel.: (+354) 551 0100 www.nings.is www.jomfruin.is Scandinavian •• Smørrebrød & Brasserie Laugavegur 22a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 4888 www.scandinavian.is Borgin Lounge ••• Pósthússtræti 11, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 2008 www.borgrestaurant.is Old fashioned dining room in well know classic Hótel Borg

Gamla smiðjan - Pizzeria •• Lækjargata 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 8555 www.gamlasmidjan.is

PORTUGESE / SPANISH

The Noodle House •• Thai Restaurant Laugavegur 59, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 2400 www.nudluhusid.is Noodle Station • Skólavörðustígur 21a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 3199 Núðluskálin • Skólavörðustígur 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 562 0202 www.nudluskalin.is

Tapas-barinn ••• Vesturgata 3b, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 2344 www.tapas.is Reasonably priced menu. Inventive use of Icelandic ingredients in these typical Spanish small dishes.

19.3.2013 17:49 11:35 19.3.2013

Tapas House •• Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 512 81 81 www.tapashouse.is A fresh new Tapas place located in the beautiful old harbor

SEAFOOD 3 frakkar ••• Baldursgata 14, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 3939 www.3frakkar.com Neighborhood bistro with Icelandic specialties.

Fish Market ••• Aðalstræti 12, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 8877 www.fishmarket.is This local hotspot serves up ambitious global fusion cuisine. Innovative dishes that keep things simple. Humarhúsið ••• Amtmannsstígur 1, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 561 3303 www.humarhusid.is Icelandic Fish & Chips •• Tryggvagata 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 1118 www.fishandchips.is Rub 23 ••• Aðalstræti 2 Tel.: (+354) 553 5323 www.rub23.is Seafood restaurant with a broad

Sjávarbarinn ••• Grandagarður 9, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 517 3131 www.sjavarbarinn.com Sjávargrillið ••• Skólavörðustíg 14 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 571 1100 www.sjavargrillid.is Sægreifinn •• Geirsgata 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 553 1500 www.saegreifinn.is Situated in a little fishing shack by the harbour. Great lobster soup and whale kebabs. Við Tjörnina ••• Templarasund 3, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 8666 www.vidtjornina.

STEAKHOUSES Argentina Steakhouse ••• Barónsstígur 11a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 9555 www.argentina.is Austur Bar & Grill ••• Austurstræti 7, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 568 1907 Hereford Steakhouse ••• Laugavegur 53b, 101 Reykjavík

Tel.: (+354) 511 3350 www.hereford.is Although the prices are high, you get what you pay for here: the best steaks in town.

SUSHI O-Sushi •• Pósthússtræti 13, 101 Reykjavík Borgartún 29, 105 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 561 0562 www.osushi.is Nice place for a quick bite. Sushi and other small-plate dishes come around on a conveyor belt. Sushibarinn •• Laugavegur 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 4444 www.myspace.com/ sushibarinn Very small sushi bar with decent rolls. Good to pick up a bite and take home.

79 EAT & DRINK

Fish Company ••• Vesturgata 2a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 5300 www.fishcompany.is Without fail, all the best adventures take place under a bridge. If you are the mood for an culinary adventure with all the best the sea and land has to offer from around the island.

selection of dishes as well as sushi.

Sushi Samba •• Þinghotsstræti 5, 101 Reykjavík Tel.:(+354) 568 6600 www.sushisamba.is A unique fusion of Japanese and South American cuisine combined with the freshness of Icelandic ingredients. Sushismiðjan •• Geirsgata 3, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 517 3366 www.sushismidjan.is Best sushi in town in a small shack near the harbour. SuZushii Stjörnutorgi •• Kringlan 4-12, 103 Reykjavik Tel.: (+354) 553 2222 www.suzushii.is Great sushi in a shopping mall.

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Grái kötturinn Hverfisgata 16a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 1544 Tiny, adorable café serving up good coffee and bagels. Here you get a true American breakfast. Grandakaffi Grandagarði 101, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 9094

CAFÉS Babalú Skólavörðustígur 22a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 555 8845 A cozy place for coffee and cake, the well-worn, homey ambience makes it difficult to leave. Café Aroma Fjarðargötu 13-15 220 Hafnarfirði Tel.: (+354) 5556996

Cafe Flóra Grasagarði - Laugardal Tel.: (+354) 553 8872 www. cafeflora.is A relaxing choice in the heart of Reykjavik botanical garden.

Kaffifélagið Skólavörðustígur 10, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 520 8420 Teeny-tiny coffee shop with trained baristas and drinks made according to the true Italian standards. Kaffi Sólon Bankastræti 7a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 562 3232 www.solon.is Trendy place with locals and a large menu. Kaffitár Bankastræti 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 2732 www.kaffitar.is This bright, colourful café serves some of the best coffee drinks in the city.

Nýlenduvöruverzlun Hemma & Valda Laugavegur 21, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 6464 Set in an old house with mismatched furniture. A granny’s attic, super friendly staff and normally filled with local hipsters. Ráðhúskaffi Tjarnargata 11, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 411 1070 Small café on the ground floor of the Reykjavik City Hall with views out over Tjörnin pond. Stofan Café Aðalstræti 7, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 567 1881 Súfistinn kaffihús og kaffibrennsla Súfistinn – Mál & menning Bookstore Laugavegi 18, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 3740 www.sufistinn.is/ One of the older cafés in Reykjavík, people still flock here for the best cakes in the city.

Svarta kaffið Kaffivagninn Laugavegur 54, 101 Café d’Haïti Grandagarði 10, 101 Reykjavík Reykjavík Geirsgötu 7b, 101, Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 2999 Tel.: (+354) 551 5932 Tel.: (+354) 551 8484 Small café with good soup in a Haitian owner Elda buys direct bread bowl. Kvosin Café from Haitian farmers to roast and Aðalstræti 6-8, 101 Reykjavík brew her coffee on the spot. Tel.: (+354) 534 4300 Te & Kaffi Nice café in the old heart of the Laugavegi 27, 101 Reykjavík Café Loki city with a “tasty” supermarket Tel.: (+354) 552 6260 Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík next door. Eymundsson bookstore Tel.: (+354) 466 2828 Austurstræti 18, 101 www.caféloki.is Reykjavík Litli Bóndabærinn Old-school Icelandic favorites Laugavegur 41, 101 Reykjavik Tel.: (+354) 660 7934 like plokkfiskur and rugbrauð or Nice café on the second floor Tel.: (+354) 823 7627 sviðasulta the nation’s soul food. of a bookstore with a huge Opened spring 2011. Aims to terrace and loads of reading offer you a 100% organic coffee Café Roma material. experience. Laugavegur 118, 105 Reykjavík Skólavörðustíg 11, 101 Tel.: (+354) 562 0020 Reykjavík Mokka Tel.: (+354) 820 8371 Skólavörðustígur 3a, 101 Esjustofa Reykjavík Esjuhlíðum 116 rvk. Tel.: (+354) 552 1174 Tíu dropar Tel.: (+354) 565 3200 Claiming the title: City’s oldest Laugavegur 27, 101 www. esjustofa.is café - this joint used to be the Reykjavík Located at the feet of Mount Esja hangout of late 20th century artists Tel.: (+354) 551 9380 & intellectuals. By far the best waffles in town, Frú Berglaug kaffihús bottomless cups of coffee, all set Laugavegi 12 101 Reykjavík in your Icelandic grandmother’s Tel.: (+354) 551 5979 breakfast corner.

Volcano House Café Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 555 1900

Housed in an old biscuit factory in downtown Reykjavik Crowd: 25+

If you want your evening to go longer than dinner, fear not. The Icelandic nightlife needs to be seen to be believed. Locals dress to the nines and head out in droves to the packed dance clubs, tiny live music venues and bars. Things don’t really pick up downtown until after midnight, but this is a great opportunity to chat to Icelanders, who shed some inhibitions as the evening wears on.

Thorvaldsen Bar Austurstræti 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 1413 www.thorvaldsen.is Crowd: 25+ Uppsalir Bar Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 514 6000 www.hotelcentrum.is Crowd: 30+ Úrilla Górillan Austurstræti 12, 101 Reykjavik Tel.: (+354) 571 4444 Crowd: 20+ Vínbarinn Kirkjutorg 4, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 4120 Crowd: 35+ Small wine bar with a chilled-out atmo and a great selection of wines. Vitabar Bergþórugata 21, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 7200 Crowd: 20+ Ölsmiðjan Lækjargata 10, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 0440 Crowd: 20+

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LATE NIGHT OUT

Slipp bar( Hótel Marína) Mýrargata 2-8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 560 8000 Crowd: 25+ Brand new bar at Hotel Marina next to the Reykjavik Dry Dock

81 EAT & DRINK

Esja Bar & Lounge Austurstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík 101 Bar Hverfisgata 10, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 6006 Crowd: 35+ Tel.: (+354) 580 0101 www.101hotel.is Gay 46 Crowd: 30+ Trendiest design bar in town, chic Hverfisgata 46, 101 Reykjavík Crowd: 25+ décor, opera crowd, expensive (Straight friendly) gay dance club drinks. in Reykjavik centre. 1919 Lounge Bar Íslenski barinn Pósthússtræti 2, 101 Pósthússtræti 9, 101 Reykjavík Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 5991050 Tel.: (+354) 578 2020 Crowd: 30+ www.islenskibarinn.is Crowd: 25+ B5 Bankastræti 5, 101 Reykjavík Mímisbar Tel.: (+354) 552 9600 Hagatorg, 107 Reykjavík www.b5.is Crowd: 25+ Tel.: (+354) 525 9900 Trendy design bar, although a www.radissonsas.com little edgier and younger than Crowd: 35+ 101. Frequent DJ nights. Swishy hotel bar with an older crowd. Bakkus Tryggvagata 22, 101 Næsti bar Reykjavík Ingólfsstræti 1a, 101 Tel.: (+354) 770 1517 Reykjavík Crowd: 20+ Tel.: (+354) 551 7776 Crowd: 35+ Bar 11 Hverfisgata 18, 101 Reykjavík This tends to be a meeting place for the older crowd. Tel.: (354) 690 6021 Crowd: 20+ Obladi Oblada Popular bar for Icelanders and Laugavegur 45a, 101 foreigners. Live events on the Reykjavík weekends. Tel.: (+354) 561 6662 Crowd: 40+ Café Amsterdam Hafnarstræti 5, 101 Reykjavík Reykjavik Backpackers Tel.: (+354) 551 3800 Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavik Crowd: 20+ Tel: (+354) 578 3700 Live music. Crowd: 20+ DRINX Bar (at KEX Hostel) Skuggabarinn Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavik Pósthússtræti 11, 101 Tel.: (+354) 561 6060

BARS

Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 2008 www.skuggabarinn.aborginni.is Crowd: 25+ Newly renovated bar at the well know classic Hótel Borg

SPORTS BARS

DJ BARS Hressingarskálinn Austurstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 561 2240 www.hresso.is Crowd: 20+ Kaffibarinn Bergstaðastræti 1, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 1588 www.kaffibarinn.is Crowd: 25+ K-bar has long been the destination for Iceland’s cool set. Laid-back atmo and good music. Kofi Tómasar frænda Laugavegur 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 1855 www.myspace.com/kofinn Crowd: 20+ Prikið Bankastræti 12, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 2866 www.prikid.is Crowd: 25+ Vegamót Vegamótastígur 4, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 3040 www.vegamot.is Crowd:20+ Nýlenduvöruverzlun Hemma og Valda Laugavegur 21, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 6464 Crowd: 25+ Very popular among Icelandic hipsters, here you can listen to good music and get the biggest beer in the city: a whopping 1.2 liters.

Bjarni Fel Sportsbar Austurstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 561 2240 English Pub Austurstræti 12, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 0400 www.englishpub.is Crowd: 20+ Karaoke Sportbar Frakkastíg 8, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 5110904 Crowd: 25+

PUBS Celtic Cross Hverfisgötu 26, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 571 1033 Crowd: 25+ Den Danske Kro Ingólfsstræti 3, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 0070 Crowd: 20+ Kaffi Zimsen Hafnarstræti 18, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 517 4988 Crowd: 20+ Popular amongst students in the universities.

Ölstofa Kormáks og Skjaldar Vegamótastígur 4, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 4687 Crowd: 25+ Basic but very popular pub. Open late.

DANCE CLUBS Austur Austurstræti 7, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 568 1907 Crowd: 20+ Lebowski Bar Laugavegur 20a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 552 2300 Crowd: 20+ Dance music on weekends.

LIVE MUSIC Café Rosenberg Klapparstígur 27, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 2442 Crowd: 25+ Dillon Rock bar Laugavegur 30, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 578 2411 Crowd: Mixed Small corner stage for concerts, usually hard rock. Faktorý – bar & music Smiðjustíg 6, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 551 4499 Crowd: 25+

The Hamburger Factory is owned and operated by Simmi and Joi, Iceland’s famous media-duo and Icelandic Idol hosts. Since the opening, the Hamburger Factory has been packed with burgercraving customers. Among the regulars you’ll find, Eric Clapton, one of Iceland’s best known salmon angler.

Located on the ground floor of the highest tower in Reykjavik, with an amazing view of Höfði, the meeting place of Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev. A must try in Iceland! Experience the Factory buzz! Be sure to make a reservation in time. Simply dial +354-575-7575.

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

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DAY TRIPS & TOURS

Conquering Europe’s largest glacier, riding an odd, little horse with five gaits, soaking in eerily warm water heated by the center of the Earth—for such a small island, there’s much to see and do.

But this is just the beginning of what Iceland has to offer. The foodie, the outdoorsman, the thrill-seeker, the bird lover, the music fan, the historian: no matter what you’re interested in, we have a wide range of activities and day tours to suit any visitor. But more importantly, we’re excited to share our island with you. Come and talk to us at the Tourist Information Center at Aðalstræti 2. In the meantime here are some of our picks…

Snorkeling IN SILFRA For those adventure seek-

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

THE GOLDEN CIRCLE This is the tour nearly everyone

who visits the island goes on, but for good reason. It really is a remarkable cluster of sights and you won’t want to miss it. You’ll see the Geysir geothermal area (the great grandpappy of all hot springs), which puts Old Faithful to shame. There’s also a trip to Gullfoss waterfall, which is massive and powerful and stunning—best of all, you can walk right up to it. And finally you’ll see Þingvellir plains where Iceland’s Alþingi parliament—one of the world’s oldest parliaments—used to meet (they’ve since gotten new digs in the Reykjavík centre).

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

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SNOWMOBILES This is a great opportunity

for the adventure seeking traveler who wants to explore a glacier first hand. Snowmobiling has been one of Iceland’s most popular adventure activities for years and the reason is quite simple. Langjökull (the country’s second largest glacier) is only approx. 2.5 hours drive from the capital city and tours run there every day, all year. Once there you get a chance to experience the breathtaking Icelandic interior, views from the flanks of Langjökull from locations you can only access on specialized vehicles like snowmobiles. Driving the snowmobile yourself then adds to the excitement, something to get your heartbeat going a little faster than usual.

OCEAN SWIMMING

Sea swimming is irresistible. There’s something about that Nordic blood; we can’t help but throw caution to the wind as we throw our bodies into the sea! Today, Icelanders practice sea swimming for the benefits it offers our minds, bodies and souls. You could say it’s the yoga of the north. There is an element of mental preparation before taking the plunge. You have to be in a certain mind space to enjoy the water, but once you achieve that polar bear sensibility, you’ll never feel more alive. If you crave this experience: www.coldwater.is or Tel.: +354 664 7000

86 THE Wonders of Snæfellsnes

For nature-lovers of all shapes and sizes, this tour is a must. This corner of Iceland is characterized by lush valleys and lava fields with pillow moss, abundant birdlife, diverse flora, craters and salmon rivers. A cruise through the wide Breiðafjörður bay is a breath-taking experience: a unique seascape of a thousand islands with stunning basalt formations and picturesque cliffs. One of the trip’s highlights is when a fishing net is hauled in and everyone gets to taste the shellfish and sea-urchin roe—it doesn’t get any fresher. This magical area has captured the imagination of people from all over the world ever since Jules Verne wrote "Journey to the Center of the Earth". The looming Snæfellsjökull glacier (1446 meters) is where the Verne’s "journey" begins and ends at the Stromboli volcano in Italy. Two unforgettable stops on this trip are the beautiful beach at Djúpalónssandur and Arnarstapi hamlet, which commands dizzying sea views from its towering bluffs.

Soak in the Culture Icelanders simply cannot walk past hot water without at least sticking a toe in. The most impressive place to appreciate this “love of the soak” is in the warm, eerily blue waters of the Blue Lagoon, nestled in the lava field landscape of Reykjanes peninsula. Rain or shine, by moonlight or midnight sun, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most exotic experiences on the island. The milky waters stretch out over the lava lagoon with 6 million liters of geothermal seawater replenished every 40 hours. www.bluelagoon.com

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GEOTHERMAL wilderness

Icelandic nature in all its splendour. The steam columns from the geothermal plants at Nesjavellir and Hellisheidi are a magnificent sight. Why not make a visit to the Geothermal Energy Exhibition at Hellisheiði Power Plant, a state-of-the-art look into geothermal energy. The plant is owned by Reykjavik Energy and is a striking example of how geothermal energy is harnessed in a sustainable manner in Iceland and a showcase for the rest of the world. Experienced guides are on-hand to provide informative presentations backed by multimedia shows about sustainable green energy as a global energy source. The Nesjavellir/Hellisheiði area, only 20 minutes drive from Reykjavik, is an excellent hiking and outdoor destination. Trails vary in length and difficulty and trail maps are available at location. On your way back to the capital you could also decide to pass by and visit historical landmarks such as Lake Thingvellir, the site of the first Parliament in Europe, and Almannagja, a split in the Earth’s crust between America and Eurasia. Route 1 towards Hveragerdi Open every day from 09:00-17:00 Tel: +354-412 5800 www.orkusyn.is

Mount Esja

Reykjavík’s mountain It’s the image that looms over the north side of the city. You can hardly take a trip to Reykjavík without sensing its presence. It’s Mount Esja. The city has unofficially adopted it as “Reykjavik’s mountain” and the city dwellers have what seems to be an unitchable scratch to climb it. If you’re not up for hiking, a helicopter ride to the top is something to think about. You still get the amazing view without the effort it takes to catch your breath. Mount Esja is only about 20-30 minutes from Reykjavík, accessible by city bus #57

ICELANDERS DO EVERYTHING BIG

(well “big” compared to how few we are) and a great testimony to that are our amusement parks. The outdoor park, called Activity Park offers four different theme fields where you can play Laser-tag and Paintball and two mini-golf 18 hole courses with amongst others a full sized Pirate ship Ahoy! Great destination weather you are travelling with you children or your friends. The indoor park, Skemmtigardurinn at Smaralind just opened last November. A state of the art amusement park, complete with “Sleggjan” a massive indoor ride that spins you 360 degrees while spinning you full circle 13 meters into the air. Here you will find attractions for all ages including the world first 7D cinema, Laser-tag arena, Bumper cars, Party bowling, and an Arcade hall as well as a Children’s care area, where you can leave your child for up to 2 hours. As if that wasn’t enough, then you could also kick back and relax on the upper floor Sport Café or Pool & Darts area.

Skemmtigardurinn Grafarvogi, Gufunesi, 112 Reykjavik and Smáralind, 201 Kópavogur Tel. (+354) 534 1900 www.skemmtigardur.is Bus #2, 24, 28

HORSEBACK RIDING

Glacier Hiking

You shouldn’t leave Iceland without experiencing the wonders of its glaciers. Glacier hiking is the best way to get up close and personal with one of Iceland’s many elements. Visiting the glaciers under the guidance of a professional glacier guide is a safe way to explore the adventurous phenomenons hidden in a glacier; rugged ice crevasses, sink holes, jagged ridges, ice walls and amazing ice formations. Whether it’s glacier hiking on Europe’s biggest glacier Vatnajökull, at Jules Vernes’s center of the earth Snæfellsjökull or at the ash covered Sólheimajökull – glacier hiking is a mustdo to get a glimpse of one of the unique wonders of Iceland.

89 TOURS & ACTIVITIES

Not only is Iceland’s herd a horse of a different color, it’s a horse of an entirely different genetic make-up. Having been bred in almost perfect isolation for over 1000 years, this breed of horse is markedly different than the horses you’ll find anywhere else in the world. In fact, the herd is so protected that once an Icelandic horse leaves the island, it can never return. Small (if you fall, you won’t fall far) and extremely well tempered, the Icelandic horse is known for its unique fifth gait: the tölt. The tölt is an unusual gait where the horse seems to crouch down and slide over rough landscape like lava fields. Íshestar offers a the Lava Tour, which is the perfect opportunity to test drive the tölt.

Over & Under

ATVs, four-wheelers, quad bikes… I don’t know what you call them, but we call them fun! Only a 20-minute drive from Reykjavík, you can take your road-rage to the lava fields where these powerful machines eat up the terrain. Quad bikes open up a world that’s normally hidden from the average traveler: the hills and mountains normally only accessible to off-road vehicles. Underneath those lava fields is an entire subterranean realm that begs to be discovered. Potholing the lava caves is a great adventure, something everyone should try. This is where you’ll see up close how the land was created while you crawl through Iceland’s otherworldly lava tubes.

The Blue Wonder

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If the lagoon isn’t exciting enough for you, then hopefully the hi-tech dressing rooms will win you over—imagine something in between Star Trek and a Finnish sauna. You can also book a full range of spa treatments including in-water massage. The Blue Lagoon was recently chosen by National Geographic as one of 25 wonders of the world. At some point you’ll want to slather your face with the free natural silica mud dispensed around the lagoon in wooden crates, get pummeled under the waterfall, sweat it out in a sauna or steam room, or just sit back at the Lagoon Bar and sip on your blue cocktail. www.bluelagoon.com

RIVER RAFTING

has been the most popular adventure activity in Iceland for years. For over twenty years tours have been rafting down Hvítá river, two hours from Reykjavík. And for twenty years visitors have been puzzling over how to say the name of the river! (It’s pronounced KVEET-ow). Pickup is available from your hotel, so we can teach you on the way. The river itself is a nice mix of beauty and exhilaration, with views of scenic canyons between heart-thumping rapids and waves. You’ll also pass through the magnificent Brúarhlöð canyon where you may get a chance to go cliff-diving into the water. And honestly, how could you resist hurling yourself into a glacial river?

The Hot Springs Riding Tour

This day-long tour offers spectacular views featuring the variety of magnificent Icelandic nature. From the top of Skálafell mountain, you can enjoy spectacular panoramas, where we might see as far as the Westman Islands and Lake Þingvallavatn. We ride on soft paths and let the horses find their way through the lava from the volcano Hengill. Upon arrival to the Reykjadalur valley with its hot springs and unusual cliffs, we can relax in a warm stream.

WHALE WATCHING & BOAT TRIPS

When Icelanders aren’t scarfing down their humpbacked friends, they are admiring their grace and beauty. With its clean, clear waters full of life, the ocean surrounding Iceland is a good place to see whales and other sea life like porpoises and water birds. The most frequently seen animals are the minke and humpback whales, not to mention the puffin colonies off the coast of Reykjavík. While you aren’t guaranteed a sighting, at least some animals are almost always seen. The whale watching season runs all year round and the puffin season from mid-May to mid-August.

WhaLe WatChiNg eXPress

WHALE WATCHING TOURS APR MAY JUN 10:00 10:00 10:00 14:00 14:00 18:00

JUL 10:00 14:00 18:00

AUG SEPT OKT 10:00 10:00 10:00 14:00 14:00 18:00

*Winter Whale Watching on Andrea at 12:55 from November – March

NortherN Lights by boat WiNter 2013–2014 Daily from 15 Sept – 15 April *subject to correct weather conditions, sightings cannot be guaranteed

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Car Rentals

Trip ehf – The independent tourist information center and booking office Laugavegur 54 Tel: +354 4338747 www.trip.is

lava and craters

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Mount Eyjafjallajökull glacier, (say it with me: EYE-a-fyat-LAJO-kutl) the famous eruption area that made headlines all over the world. Super Jeeps tours leave from Reykjavík on an exciting day tour that takes you to the volcano area where you will get the sense of the forces of nature that were at work. From up here some breathtaking views over the Þórsmörk valley and the glaciers descending from the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap are also yours to enjoy Last but not least, the picturesque waterfalls Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are mandatory stops where the brave ones can venture behind the waterfall as it falls off its cliff! Why not see the aftermath of the volcanic eruption in Eyjafjallajokull from the best possible place – take a helicopter tour!

The Glacial Lagoon on the South Coast

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

LANDMANNALAUGAR IN THE HIGHLANDS

Landmannalaugar, literally the “Pools of the People,” is celebrated as one of the nation’s natural treasures. Accessible only by 4x4 in the southern highland region, which is known for its unusual beauty and hot spring pools. After a brisk hike, visitors can soak in the natural pools and take in the stunning views: lava fields and the remarkably multicoloured rhyolite mountains, which appear in every colour: pink, brown, green, yellow, blue, purple, black, white and everything in between. Other stops on the trip include Þjórsárdalur valley and the ruins of Stöng farm.

Mountaineers of Iceland

Mountaineers of Iceland is one of the leading adventure tour companies in Iceland, specializing in Super Jeeps and snowmobile tours, mainly in the south western part of the country. An outdoor adventure with these guys is a must for anybody, from thrill seekers to nature lovers, weather you are a group

of people or alone visiting the country. Whatever idea you might have Mountaineers are sure to welcome it and make it happen. Their highly specialized team of dynamic, creative and professional staff are constantly creating new activities for clients with personal service from beginning to end. The Mountaineers of Iceland’s vehicles of choice are individually modified 4x4 Super Jeeps specially equipped with extra large 38” – 44“ tires, GPS navigation systems and radio transceivers to safely explore Iceland’s remote highlands and glaciers. With one of the best offers on the market a taste of their tours include; scheduled day tours, half-day tours, evening tours, northern lights hunt, team building weekends, bachelor or bachelorette weekends, cave exploring, and river rafting - to name a few. For more information or booking check out their website. www.mountaineers.is

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REYKJAVÍK ON TWO WHEELS

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

NUTS & BOLTS

Legally bikes are considered vehicles in Iceland and are meant to be ridden on the right side of the road along with motorists. But bear in mind that most Icelandic drivers are not used to sharing the road with cyclists. You can bike on the sidewalks and walking paths, but only if it doesn't interfere with pedestrian traffic. It's also annoying to bike on the sidewalk because most curbs are squared-off instead of sloped, which makes for a bumpy ride.

HEAVEN ON WHEELS Most cyclists are drawn to the paths outside of Reykjavík's dense, hilly center. There are a number of glorious paths along the coast (including Sæbraut to the north and Ægissíða

to the south) that will take you around the Seltjarnarnes peninsula. Another popular area is Elliðaárdalur valley, a lush, green nature preserve centered around the Elliðavatn lake and the streams that run out of it along the valley. Or if you're really looking to get lost in the great outdoors then hit the much larger Heiðmörk wilderness preserve next to Elliðarárdalur. The cycling path brings you all sorts of landscapes from evergreen forests (a rarity in Iceland, you might have noticed) to scrub and lava fields. More information on both areas is available from the Tourist Info Center, Aðalstræti 2. Biking is also a great way to get to know Reykjavík. Bike tours are organized year round (bikes and helmets provided) where you’ll get beyond the city center to discover some of the city’s extensive green spaces. Or if you’re up for a real adventure (and less pedaling) then rent a scooter to zoom along the coast and the wilderness on the outskirts of town. Take a tour around the city with a friendly guide and bring your kids along too: icelandbike.com For extreme rides check out: icebikeadventures.com

Bicycling Tour Across the Capital The trip starts at

our meeting place by the harbour. From there we make a stop at City Hall to see a huge topographical map of Iceland. Next we ride along the coast to Nauthólsvík bay, the only artificially heated beach in the world. Then we pedal up Öskjuhlíð hill, a great lookout spot to see the city in panorama. There’s also a replica of the Geysir hot spring on the way. Next we’ll stop for some refreshments at a café near Reykjavík’s iconic Hallgrímskirkja church. Lastly, we’ll circle back to end up back where we started. Altogether the trip should take about 3-4 hours.

Reykjavik Bike Tours

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TOURS & ACTIVITIES

City Tours Day Tours Rent-A-Bike Private Tours Open All Year bike@icelandbike.com ● Call Ursula & Stefan +(354) 694 8956

Reykjavik Segway Tours

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www.reykjaviksegwaytours.com

Ægisgarður 7 ● Reykjavik’s Old Harbour (near the whale boats) book@reykjaviksegwaytours.com ● Call / SMS / text: Stefan 00 (354) 897 2790

GolfTee inTime Iceland at the Top of the World Teeing off under the midnight sun. Playing through the rough of a lava field. Landing in a sand trap of black, volcanic sand. Watching your ball soar in the horizon in front of a glacier. Sound like a trip? Welcome to golf at the top of the world.

Sweeping mountain and ocean views characterize the Icelandic golf experience, with courses that follow the contours of the landscape, a popular trend in golf course design today. Many golf courses in Iceland have been laid out with minimal disturbance to existing terrain in harmony with nature. The creation of golf courses has even been a part of restoring vegetation in the sandy landscapes within lava fields that cover one-tenth of Iceland's surface. Midnight golf is available in summer due to Iceland's northerly position on the globe and can be enjoyed both on eighteen-hole courses and nine-hole courses. To ensure your tee time, book your midnight golf well in advance with the golf course. Some golf courses limit the time they allow midnight golf. For such a small country, we are crazy about golf, with a total of 65 courses on the island. Fifteen are 18-hole courses and fifty are 9-hole courses. For more information visit golficeland.org

ter Win ly On

The northern

lights

The northern lights are truly a spectacular phenomenon, and although there is no way to ensure that you’ll see them on your trip, you can at least enlist the help of the locals who know best. Conditions need to be dark, preferably away from the city lights, and as for the weather, look for the three Cs of northern-lights sighting: Cold, Crisp and Cloudless! You’ll normally see them between October and March. There are a number of northern lights tours, all of which will send you out in a bus with your fellow hunters to catch a glimpse of nature’s winter fireworks.

Travelling with children? 97 Y Visit Viðey Island

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Take the elevator to the 8th floor and enjoy the sweeping view. But keep in mind that the bells just above your head ring every 15 minutes—a bit overwhelming for some youngsters, but good fun for the older kids.

Bicycling

Roll your family through Reykjavík on two wheels. Most of the city’s green spaces are set up for excellent cycling tours. Contact the information centre about schedules or rentals.

Ice Skating

On cold days in winter, there is nothing more refreshing than a spine around Tjörnin pond in the city center. If it’s too warm, you can still get your skate on at Skautahöllin in the Laugardalur recreation area. Call ahead and check opening hours (+354) 588 9705.

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

ou’re in luck because Iceland is definitely a kid-friendly nation (we tend to have a lot of them). Children rule this city by day: biking in the streets, stuffing their faces with licorice and getting into as much trouble as possible. Much of Icelandic life is centered on activities with our children both in Reykjavík and in the countryside.

Just a short ferry ride away from Sundahöfn harbor, nature and history can be found all over this compact island. In the summer, refreshments are sold at the island’s restaurant or pack a picnic. This is a great place to wander the trails, or get an upclose view of Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower, a tower of pure light in memory of John Lennon.

Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park This might be a stretch for the word “zoo”, but kids will have a good time with the Icelandic farm animals, seals, reindeer and the aquarium. There is also a science tent with all sorts of hands-on experiments and educational programs. Afterwards, grab a bite at Café Flóra in the botanical gardens across the way.

The indoor FUN park

Skemmtigardurinn Smaralind just opened last november and is state of the art, complete with “Sleggjan” a massive indoor ride thar spins you 360° while spinning you full circle 13 meters into the air as well other attractions like bumper cars, an arcade hall and childcare area.

To the Movies

After a long day out and about, what better way to relax than by watching a good movie. Icelanders love their movies, but they also love their movie snacks. Be warned that the film will stop in the middle so everyone can get a refill! Remember to check whether kid’s movies are dubbed or subtitled. To check schedules visit midi.is/showtimes

Geothermal Beach

Ask about Activities for Kids

Many of the activities and tours are also available for kids. Let them enjoy Iceland along with you while dog sledding, whale watching, horseback riding, kayaking, sea angling and trips to the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle.

www.icelandtoday.is

Watch out, Dubai! Move over, Florida! Meet Reykjavík’s geothermally heated beach at Nauthólsvík, complete with golden sand and volleyball. Open in the summer only.

The ICELANDIC HORSE

he well-known Icelandic horse has originated in Iceland, where it has been bred without any known elements of foreign genetic influence since people from northern Europe inhabited Iceland around 900 AD, mostly Norwegian Vikings.

Old Icelandic documents has been found showing that the Vikings put great value to their small and strong Icelandic horse, mostly for its riding qualities. Already in the early 1000, a lot of effort was put into breeding; attempts were even made in trying to refine the breed by mixing oriental blood. This, however, had disastrous consequences with long-term degeneration within the stocks of horses. After this unpleasant experience the Icelandic Althing, the world’s oldest parliament, totally banned the importation of horses to the country. No horse, whether it originally came from the island or not, could be imported. Today’s result is that the breed has remained pure without mixture of any other races and it has also kept infections away form the animal stocks. Still today the rules remain tough on the matter and no horse that has left the island can ever return. By the end of World War Two the local road network started to properly be developed on the island. Until then the Icelandic horse had

been an important mean of transportation as the main way to get around in the tough Icelandic terrain. People used their horse when visiting the neighbours; go to church or to the markets and they also carried building materials and food with the help of their four-legged friends. The horses were tolerable and fast, and in many cases indispensable for the residents of Iceland, so much to the extent that horses became a symbol of fertility. Icelandic horses withers at the highest point, usually between 125 to145 cm. An adult Icelandic horse weighs approximately 300 to 400 kg and it has a relatively long active life span where 25-30 years is not uncommon.

Come ride with us For over 30 years Íshestar has given people an opportunity to experience the Icelandic horse on long and short trips. Horses are our passion.

Come ride with us in the beautiful surroundings of our Íshestar Riding Centre. You get free transport from all major hotels and guesthouses in the capital area.

For further information check out our website www.ishestar.is, call +354 555 7000 or be our friend on Facebook.

Pools & Spas

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Many believe Iceland’s geothermal water includes some great health benefits, especially for skin ailments like psoriasis and eczema. But besides that, these waters imbue the body with a great feeling of well-being. The country has over 170 pools—both spread around the country and throughout all of the capital region’s neighbourhoods. Most swimming complexes include a lap pool, several hot tubs and at least one steam room. If you’d like to treat yourself to Reykjavík’s loved spa culture, indulge in a trip to the local pool or spa.

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

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

Thermal pools included in the Reykjavík welcome card For more info visit www.swimminginiceland.com

Klébergslaug

Árbæjarlaug

Fylkisvegur 9, 110 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 411 5200 Open: M-T 06:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa 09:00-22:00, Su 09:00-22:00

Breiðholtslaug

Austurberg 3, 111 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 557 5547 Open: M-T 06:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa 09:00-18:00, Su 09:00-18:00

Grafarvogslaug

Dalhús 2, 112 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 510 4600 Open: M-T 06:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa –Su 09:00-18:00

Kjalarnes, 116 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 566 6879 Open: M-F 15:00-21:00, Sa-Su 11:00-15:00

Laugardalslaug

Sundlaugarvegur, 104 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 411 5100 Open: M-F 6:30-22:00, Sa-Su 8:00-22:00

Sundhöll Reykjavíkur

Barónstígur, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 411 5350 Open: M-T 6:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa 08:00-16:00, Su 10:00-18:00

Vesturbæjarlaug

Hofsvallagata, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 411 5150 Open: M-T 6:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa 09:00-18:00, Su 09:00-18:00

Other thermal pools in the REYKJAVÍK capital area For a complete listing of Iceland’s pools, locations and opening times, visit swimminginiceland.com Sundhöll hafnarfjarðar

Herjólfsgata 10, 220 Hafnarfjörður, Tel.: (+354) 555 0088

Ásvallalaug

Suðurbæjarlaug

Hringbraut 77, 220 Hafnarfjörður, Tel.: (+354) 565 3080

Kópavogslaug

Borgarholtsbraut 17, 200 Kópavogur, Tel.: (+354) 570 0470

Álftaneslaug

Lágafellslaug

Sundlaug seltjarnarness

Lækjarhlíð 1a, 270 Mosfellsbær, Tel.: (+354) 517 6080

Varmárlaug

270 Mosfellsbær, Tel.: (+354) 566 6754

Garðabæjarlaug

Ásgarður, 210 Garðabær, Tel.: (+354) 565 8066

Bjarnastaðir, 225 Álftanes, Tel.: (+354) 550 2350

Suðurströnd, 170 Seltjarnarnes, Tel.: (+354) 561 1551

Loftleiðalaug

Loftleiðir hotel, 101 Reykjavík, Tel.: (+354) 444 4085

Nauthólsvík

Nauthólsvegur, 101 Reykjavík, Tel.: (+354) 511 6630

www.icelandtoday.is

Ásvellir 2, 221 Hafnarfjörður, Tel.: (+354) 512 4050

Salalaug

Versalir 3, 201 Kópavogur, Tel.: (+354) 570 0480

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REYKJAVÍK ON FOOT Red path: historical sites

Duration: About 2.5 hours with refreshment stops. Distance: 1.6 km/1 mile. 1

Reykjavík’s oldest street

Excavations on Aðalstræti street have revealed ruins dating back to Viking era, when the first settlers came to Iceland. In 1752, the enterprising Constable Skúli Magnússon, often called the father of Reykjavík, decided it should be a site for various factory workshops called the “Innréttingar,” which eventually grew into the core of what we now call downtown Reykjavík. 2 Reykjavík’s oldest timber building Aðalstræti 10 is considered the city’s oldest timber house. In olden times it was the residence of Bishop Geir Vídalín (1761-1823), whose hospitality was infamous, to say the least.

Aðalstræti 10

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

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Blue path: PARKS & STATUES

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

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

Duration: About 4.5 hours with refreshment stops. Distance: 3.2 km/2 miles.

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

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

5 Gossip Ledge On the corner of Skólavörðustígur and Bergstaðastræti is a place called “Gossip Ledge”. In olden times it was customary for people in Reykjavík to gather here and swap gossip. The party has since been moved to the Reykjavík city hot tubs, where all of Iceland’s most important discussions are had. 6

The Penalty House

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

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7 Laugavegur Now crowded with boutiques and cafés, Laugavegur wasn’t always so glamorous. The street gained its name (Lauga+vegur = pool+road) from the washerwomen who would tread through the mud carrying heavy loads of laundry down to the geothermic pools in Laugadalur valley.

2 Jón Sigurðsson (1811 – 1879) Born June 17, 1811, Jón Sigurðsson became the beloved leader of Iceland’s struggle for independence and separation from Danish rule in the 19th century. In his pursuit of freedom for Iceland, Jón crossed the Atlantic 29 times on cargo vessels and mail boats to plea with the Danish government. In the end, Danes granted Iceland a limited constitution in 1874. In commemoration for his efforts Iceland celebrates its independence day on Jón’s birthday. You’ll also find this handsome fellow on the 500 kr. note. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson

3 Tryggvagarður Garden Named after Tryggvi Gunnarsson (1835 – 1917), a renowned entrepreneur and prime minister of Iceland, this garden dates back to 1893 and is known as a place where the nation’s leaders come to make important decisions. After all, it’s located directly behind the House of Parliament.

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4 Skúli Magnússon (1711 – 1794) Although many Icelanders cringe at the idea of bringing heavy industry to Iceland today, it was Constable Skúli Magnússon, dubbed the “Father of Reykjavík,” who first brought factory production to Reykjavík with the so-called “Innréttingar” industrial workshops. If you visit Viðey Island you can still see his residence, where he lived from 1754 until his death. Sculptor: Guðmundur Einarsson 5

Fógetagarðurinn Park

The site of Reykjavík’s first cemetery dating back to the time of Iceland’s settlement, used for over 800 years. It is believed to contain the remains of 30 generations of Icelanders. Spreading its limbs across the park is Reykjavík’s oldest tree: a Rowan tree dating back to 1884. 6

Suðurgata Cemetery

The green space opposite downtown on the other side of the pond is a cemetery, eerily treed in an otherwise nearly treeless cityscape (good fertilizer?). It was first used in 1838 and actually provides a lovely respite on a sunny day for stroll through the past. 7 The Lakeside In this area the past meets the present with Reykjavík’s modern palace of a city hall flanked by some of the city’s loveliest houses from the turn of the century on both sides of the lake.

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

9 Bertel Thorvaldsen (1770 – 1844) Note: Read with movie-trailer voice. The humble son of an Icelandic woodcarver settles in Denmark and through hard work and diligence becomes one of the most sought after sculptors in Europe, working for royalty, aristocrats and renowned collectors. After a life of fame and fortune he dies in grand style at the Royal Theater in Copenhagen, buried at his own request under a bed of roses next to the museum housing his works. Coming to a theater near you. Sculptor: Bertel Thorvaldssen 10 Pavilion Park (Hljómskálagarðurinn) What used to by the city dump for the most part of the 19th century is now a popular place to picnic by the lakeside. 11 Jónas Hallgrímsson (1807 – 1845) If the pen is mightier than the sword, then this man was a Sherman tank. His sweeping romantic poetry on Icelandic nature and beauty coincided with the nation’s battle for independence. In fact, many consider his words to be one of the driving forces behind Icelanders insisting on escaping the Danish crown. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson 12 Court Garden (Hallargarðurinn) Originally a private garden, but in 1955 it became the first large recreation area in Iceland to be specifically designed by a landscape architect. 13 Mothers’ Park (Mæðragarðurinn) One of the city’s first playgrounds. In 1925 the area was declared a public park and dedicated to mothers with young children (hence the statue of mother with child).

LANDMANNALAUGAR & ÞÓRSMÖRK - GOÐALAND Visit our website for more of our day, evening and hiking tours and different pick up sites. We at Trex offer coaches of all shapes and sizes, wellequipped for both summer and winter Travel. Coaches with 9 - 70 seats, all with safesty belts. Bookings and information: Tel. + 354 587 6000 e-mail: info@trex.is

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

Excursions by bus to these scenic pearls of Icelandic nature worth while to visit. Daily departures in the morning from Reykjavík between June 15th and September 1st.

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www.trex.is

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14 Hannes Hafstein (1861 – 1922) Farm boy from the North makes good. Hannes graduated from the Icelandic National School in 1880 and later as a lawyer from Copenhagen University. In 1904, he became the first Icelander to be appointed to the Danish Cabinet as the Minister for Icelandic Affairs, reporting to the Icelandic parliament. Later he became Iceland’s first prime minister. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson 15 Ingólfsbrekka Hill Probably one of the best-preserved sections of old Reykjavik’s landscape. In 1806, it marked the eastern boundary of the city. 16

Sheriff’s Garden

Dating back to 1862, this park is probably the oldest preserved household garden in Reykjavik. Through Hressingaskálinn café on Austurstræti you can access the garden and eat outside, or just sit down for a cup of coffee.

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17 King Christian IX Ruled Denmark from 1863 to 1906, known as the “Grandfather of Europe” as many of his descendents married into other royal houses. In 1874 he issued a new constitution for Iceland, a compromise between Iceland’s demand for sovereignty and Denmark’s interest in maintaining the monarchy. When the king set foot in Iceland it became the country’s first royal visit— even if it was only to boot Iceland out of the kingdom. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson 18

Arnarhóll Hill

Before 1764, Reykjavík had no prison. Instead, Iceland shipped their undesirables out to Denmark for imprisonment and had to pay dearly for the service. In an effort to save some króna, in 1757 the Icelandic magistrates asked the Danish crown for permission to simply hang convicts instead of hassling to send them abroad. The king didn’t go for the idea, instead ordering that a proper prison be built on Arnarhóll Hill. 19 Ingólfur Arnarson According to Iceland’s Book of Settlement, it was 870 AD when the island’s first permanent settler, Ingólfur Arnarson, threw his two wooden chieftain poles overboard, believing that wherever they washed ashore was where he

Ingólfur Arnarson was fated to build his settlement, which later became Reykjavík. Archaeological excavations at Aðalstræti and Suðurgata streets have revealed evidence of an ancient settlement that supports this story. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson 20

Leif the Lucky

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

Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden

Behind the Einar Jónsson Museum is a garden exhibiting casts of Einar’s sculptures. The fierce Icelandic national pride is captured in these boldly rendered, allegorical figures.

Leifur Eiríksson

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107 TOURS & ACTIVITIES

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WORTH A VISIT

A GEOTHERMAL ENERGY EXHIBITION

Stop by the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant and see how they harness the geothermal energy. Experienced guides are on-hand to provide informative presentations backed by multimedia shows. Origin of the Geothermal energy – The production process – An illustrated guide to Hellisheiði – The earth core. Exclusive collection of minerals and stones. An excellent hiking and outdoor destination. Enjoy our coffee shop and browse through a selection of educational material in the souvenires corner. Open daily from 9:00 – 17:00. We are about 20 minutes drive from Reykjavík on Route 1 towards Hveragerði.

Hönnun: adalheiduro@simnet.is

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More information: www.orkusyn.is Tel: +354 412 5800. e-mail: orkusyn@orkusyn.is Gps 64°02”248’- 21°24”079´ We are on Facebook!

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EVENTS

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JUNE

Festival of the Sea

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June 1 – 2, 2013 The first Sunday in June is a very special day in Iceland. It reminds us of how important the sea and its sailors are to our history, our economy and our people. On that weekend every ship in Iceland is in harbour and all the sailors have a day off. Boats and ships of all sizes come into port carrying sailors eager to try their hands at strongman competitions and rowing competitions between ship crews and companies. On this day the Icelandic rescue squad displays a rescue at sea in Reykjavík harbour. Sailor’s day is a light-hearted occasion with lots of fun for the whole family. www.hatidhafsins.is

Viking Festival in Hafnarfjörður

June 14 – 17, 2013 In olden times Vikings divided the year into summer and winter halves, marking the beginning of each new season. Summer solstice, celebrated on June 21st, marked the longest day of the year. Solstice celebrations have grown in popularity recently with various gatherings, song, dance and midnight walks on offer. The Viking Village in Hafnarfjordur town hosts a Solstice Festival with Viking clothing, instruments, jewellery, crafts, and of course food and drink.    www.fjorukrain.is

National Day

June 17, 2013 The National Day of Iceland

has been celebrated on June 17th since 1944. The festivities in Reykjavík include colourful parades, street theatre and music, sideshows and dancing.    www.17juni.is

JULY

Rey Cup 2011  International Football Festival

July 2013 “Football and Fun!” in Reykjavík, Iceland. The Rey Cup 2011 tournament will now be held for the tenth time or annually since 2002. During the previous years a number of international teams have participated in Rey Cup from the UK to the other Nordic countries at the Laugardalur Sport Center. www.reycup.is

AUGUST

Innipukinn Festival

August 2 – 4, 2013 Innipúkinn is an annual music festival, held in Reykjavík on the August bank holiday weekend. Past guests include Cat Power, Blonde Redhead, Mugison, Raveonnettes, Hjálmar, Trabant, Seabear, Jonathan Ritchman, Mínus, Dikta,FM Belfast, Televison + many more.

The Icelandic Chamber Music Festival

August 7 – 17, 2013 The Icelandic Chamber Music Festival was originally initiated by young Icelandic musicians. The aim of the festival is for young musicians to participate in chamber music and to get a chance to perform and

interact irrespective of where they live or study. Located in Kópavogur, a 5 minutes drive from Reykjavík city, where Salurinn concert hall serves as perfect grounds for over a hundred musicians and music students from all over the world. www.musicfest.is

Reykjavík Gay Pride

August 8 – 11, 2013 This colourful event brings tens of thousands of people into the city centre every year to show solidarity and have fun with the gay community in Reykjavík. Gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, transgender people, friends, relatives, a fast growing number of tourists and the general public all come together to celebrate and support human rights for all. www.gaypride.is/

Reykjavík Jazz Festival

August 15 - 22, 2013 The annual Reykjavík Jazz Festival is an increasingly prestigious event on the international jazz scene. It features many acclaimed international Jazz players as well as Iceland’s leading Jazz musicians. www.reykjavíkjazz.is/

Reykjavík Marathon

August 124, 2013 This annual event involves thousands of participants from Iceland and abroad, and includes the marathon proper, half marathon and the so-called “Fun Run”. The official programme starts at noon and ends in the late evening.   www.marathon.is

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Travel the world of music

Harpa Concert Hall » Box office » +354 528 5050 » www.sinfonia.is » www.harpa.is

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See the full program at www.sinfonia.is

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Reykjavík‘s latest landmark

EVENTS

Guided tours daily at Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre

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Harpa tour isk 1.500 Every day at 3.30 (and at 11.00 during summer). Backstage tour isk 2.500 (15 pers. max) Take a look behind the scenes. Groups only. Tasting tour isk 2.700 Tour with a treat. Refreshments await you at the end.

More information at www.harpa.is

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Mies van der Rohe 2013 Harpa is the winner of the 2013 European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture — Mies van der Rohe Award.

Brandenburg

Singing tour isk 4.500 Enjoy the acoustics with a singer. Groups only.

Reykjavík Culture Night

August 24, 2013 Reykjavík Culture Night has become an essential part of cultural life in Iceland with thousands of people strolling the streets of the city on this exciting and eventful night. Culture Night offers the chance to enjoy a variety of activities ranging from traditional shows and exhibitions to more unusual happenings. www.menningarnott.is

LÓKAL

August 7, 2013

114 Lókal is Reykjavík’s only

international professional theatre festival. It aims at introducing new and original theatre productions to the Icelandic audience, using the opportunity to connect local theatre artists with the international theatre scene. www.lokal.is

Tango Festival – Tango on ICEland

August 29 – September 1, 2013 The tango festival TANGO ON ICEland has been growing over the years and features internationally famous dance teachers. The Tango festival offers workshops, tango bands and a tango DJ, tango shows and Milonga until daybreak. www.tango.is

SEPTEMBER

Reykjavík International Film Festival - RIFF

September 23 October 6, 2013 The festival was founded in 2004 by a group of

film enthusiasts and professionals with the goal of creating an annual international film festival in Reykjavík. The aim was to establish a major film event to enrich and enliven the local film culture, but moreover, to become an international attraction. RIFF’s reputation has spread considerably and the number of international guests has multiplied making the festival one of the best-kept secrets of the film festival circuit. www.riff.is

OCTOBER

Imagine Peace Tower

October 9 – December 8, 2013 A work of art by Yoko Ono dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. A wishing well, from which a strong and tall tower of light emerges. Every year the Imagine Peace Tower emerges between Lennon’s birthday and the day of his death. www.

imagineReykjavík.com

Iceland Airwaves

October 30 – November 3, 2013 It started as a showcase for local DJs and has evolved into a full-blown, international music festival that presents the hottest new bands from the USA, Europe and Iceland. The festival attracts thousands of international visitors annually to sample the freshest sounds, foreign and domestic - some in the search of fresh talent, others for inspiration and yet others seeking adventure on the arctic circle. www.icelandairwaves.com

NOVEMBER

Unglist (Young Art) Festival

November 8 – 16, 2013 Unglist, the art festival of young people, has been an annual event in Reykjavik since 1992. This festival week is packed with a multitude of performers and spectators. The program consists of music, design, fashion, photography, paintings and theatre. The festival reflects current trends in young people’s art. www.unglist.is

DECEMBER

Lighting of Oslo Christmas Tree

December 1, 2013 Every year since 1952, the City of Oslo, Norway has presented Reykjavík City with a huge, beautiful Christmas tree for the festive period. The tree is always placed in Austurvöllur Square, in the heart of downtown Reykjavík, and is ceremoniously lit every year on the first Sunday of the advent. Families gather to sing Christmas carols and join in the festivities, and the Yulelads make an appearance.

Advent and Christmas

December 1 - 26, 2013 Christmas is very important in Iceland. It is celebrated everywhere in society; families, friends and colleagues make the season special by having Christmas parties, baking cookies, drinking jolaglogg (mulled wine) and decorating their homes. The main day of celebration for

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Icelanders is Christmas Eve (24 December) – but celebrations start much sooner. By late November, streets and buildings are adorned with Christmas lights and people start frequenting traditional Christmas buffets at the many restaurants in Reykjavík. Shop for some unique gifts in Reykjavík city centre, visit the quaint Christmas Village in Hafnarfjordur town, check out the Christmas-themed museum exhibitions and explore the winter landscape around Reykjavík. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day you can enjoy a traditional Icelandic Christmas dinner at some of the best restaurants in Reykjavik, tasting the local Icelandic delicacies.

New Year’s Eve

December 31, 2013 After long and dark winter months New Year’s Eve is the perfect time to go a little bit overboard. Shops are open and visitors can dine at one of Reykjavik’s many restaurants. Join in the celebrations by taking a New Year’s Eve tour or by finding their own way to one of the city’s huge bonfires. Then it’s time to reconvene for the big sendoff at midnight, where we set off a frankly improbable amount of fireworks to welcome the New Year. Traditionally one of the year’s biggest knees-up and all the bars, pubs, music halls, clubs and entertainment establishments are open for business. The action doesn’t

really start downtown until a good bit after midnight, but the party will be on at 3 and still jumping at 6am.

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

JANUARY

Dark Music Days

Þrettándinn, Twelfth Nigh

January 6, 2014 The last day of Yule, celebrated with another round of bonfires and possibly some elfin dances. Many of the magical events associated with New Year’s Eve are also supposed to occur on our twelfth night. This is also traditionally when Icelanders set off whatever fireworks we didn’t get around to on New Year’s Eve.

Reykjavík International Games

January 14 - 26, 2014 The city of Reykjavík will for the sixth time welcome sports participants to a multi-sport competition in Laugardalur, the Valley of Sport, taking place in January 2013. http://rig.is

Thorrinn

January 24 - 2014 Every winter at the end of January Icelanders celebrate the annual Thorrablot. This is a very lively and joyful festival with a lot of singing, dancing, and of course the consumption of traditional Viking food: smoked lamb, singed sheep heads, stockfish, rye bread steamed in hot ground, delicious “skyr” (think yoghurt, only nicer), and topped off with “brennivin” (Icelandic

January/February 2014 The annual contemporary music festival Dark Music Days is becoming an increasingly popular music event. The Iceland Composer Society holds the festival in collaboration with most of Iceland’s finest performers.    www.darkmusicdays.is

FEBRUARY

Winter Lights festival

February 2014 The Winter Lights Festival is designed to be an annual event to stimulate and enliven city life in the midwinter. The Festival celebrates both the winter and the growing light after a long period of darkness. All the major cultural and educational institutions participate in the Festival and sports clubs, galleries, artists, shops, restaurants and many more join in the fun. www.vetrarhatid.is

Museum Night

February 2014 Reykjavík’s museums stay open past midnight and offer special events, including theatre, street performances, dance, visual arts and much more. A special Museum Night bus travels between the museums and all entrance is free. www.safnanott.is

117 EVENTS

Reykjavik Chess Open February 2014 The Icelandic Chess Federation, in co-operation with the Reykjavik Chess Academy, welcomes you to the Reykjavik Chess Festival. Probably the most spectacular playing venue for open tournament ever! The tournament will be held in Harpa, Reykjavik´s spectacular new music hall on the harbour. www.chess.is

MARCH

Food and Fun

Feb - March 2014 The core element of the festival involves worldacclaimed chefs collaborating with Reykjavík’s finest restaurants. Each chef is assigned to one of the participating restaurants, where they prepare a special menu crafted from Icelandic ingredients only. The menus are presented at all the restaurants for an entire week. www.foodandfun.is

DesignMarch

Reykjavík Nordica. Watch blues artists from Europe, Iceland and North America perform together in some of the most unique jam sessions in the Northern Hemisphere and catch performances from young and promising blues artists of the future. www.blues.is

www.imaginereykjavik.com

The Icelandic Horse Festival in Reykjavík

March 21-28, 2014 A work of art by Yoko Ono dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. A wishing well, from which a strong and tall tower of light emerges. Every year the Imagine Peace Tower emerges between Lennon’s birthday and the day of his death.

The Icelandic Music Experiments

March 2014 Iceland’s got volcanoes and geysers galore, but the capital Reykjavík really rocks! In recognition of its small but internationally lauded music scene, there’s more to Icelandic music than Bjork and Sigur Ros as Iceland’s wildest young performers gather in a tightly contested battle for supremacy that means the punter is guaranteed one hell of a show. www.musiktilraunir.is

Reykjavík Fashion Festival

March 2014 The cream of Icelandic fashion talent has joined forces with bright sparks on the music scene to revitalize the established and popular Reykjavík Fashion Festival. Organizers include E-Label, Nikita, Birna, Thelma-Design, Mundi Design and Faxaflói. www.rff.is

Reykjavík Blues Festival

April 12 - 17, 2014 International Reykjavík Blues Festival will be held at Hilton

March - April, 2014 The programme consists of various events ranging from breeding shows to saddle making. The events take place at breeding ranches and horse club locations in and around Reykajvík with a grand finale at the Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park. www. icelandichorsefestival.is

APRIL

Children‘s Culture Festival

April, 2014 Children’s culture, culture for children and culture with children. These are the three main aspects of this festival. Reaching all corners of Reykjavik city from the slopes of Mt. Esja to the bottom of the swimming pools, the festival is meant to become an annual event. www. barnamenningarhatid.is

www.icelandtoday.is

March 27 – 30, 2014 DesignMarch offers a diverse and exciting programme. A wealth of events, interesting lectures and exhibitions reflect the diversity of Icelandic design. DesignMarch is a four-day feast for designers, businesses, design aficionados, the general public and tourists alike which brings a splash of colour to the city of Reykjavík and the country. www.icelanddesign.is

Imagine Peace Tower

First Day of Summer

April 24, 2014 Icelanders celebrate the First Day of Summer (according to the old Icelandic calendar) with parades, family events and smiles all round – regardless of whether it snows or not.

May

Reykjavík Music Mess

May 28 – 31, 2014 Reykjavík Music Mess is an independent music festival in downtown Reykjavík, with shows on Faktory Bar and Kex Hostel. Featuring bands from Iceland, Finland, USA, Denmark and the UK. www. reykjavikmusicmess.com

Reykjavík Art Festival

May 2014 This is Iceland’s premier cultural festival, bringing together the best in local

and international theatre, dance, music and visual art. The program offers a variety of exhibitions, concerts, dance, theatre and opera performances. Along with its focus on Icelandic culture past and present, the festival hosts many outstanding international artists and performers. www.artfest.is

Bright Days in Hafnarfjordur

May - June, 2014 The Hafnarfjordur arts and cultural festival Bright Days is held annually in June. The aim of Bright Days is to provide entertainment for locals and visitors, and to promote Hafnarfjordur arts and artists. The varied programme offers something for everyone. www.hafnarfjordur.is

118 INTERESTED IN THE

WONDERS OF VOLCANOES?  I

f this is your ﬁrst time in Iceland a visit to the Volcano House, in the Reykjavík City Centre, will provide you with a splendid overview of how volcanic activity has shaped the country. Icelandic nature can be harsh with sometimes quite severe weather conditions, earthquakes, avalanches and volcanic eruptions. All of this, along with the rugged landscape, has had its impact in the society as a whole. Icelanders have always had to deal with ever unpredictable mother nature, who quite often has had the last word In how one plans one’s day even one´s life. Volcano House Cinema presents two unique documentaries on two of the most powerful and notorious eruptions in Iceland over the last 40 years - the 1973 eruption in the Westman Islands and the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in South Iceland. Gripping footage, riveting images, informative story

and a dramatic sound tract allow you to experience these momentous eruptions in the comfort of our in-house cinema while enjoying a cup of coffee or tea from the Volcano House Café. The Volcano House also offers a light and healthy menu at the café, a geology exhibition, tourist information and free booking service for services in and around Reykjavík and the Volcano Gift Shop. Duration - 53 minutes. Every hour on the hour in English, except at 18.00 in German and 21.00 in French. The Volcano House is open from 8.00 - 24.00 summer 2013.

Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavik | (354) 555 1900 | www.volcanohouse.is

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ACCOMODATION

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GET A ROOM! 120

ith its compact city center, Reykjavík offers a surprisingly wide selection of accommodation—from shabby chic to design boutique and everything in between. Although most of the larger hotels like Nordica and SAS Radisson are situated outside the close quarters of downtown, the city center is home to a number of smaller boutique hotels and guesthouses. Generally speaking, the western half of Laugavegur and the area between Tjörnin pond and the harbour are considered the center of downtown, although places located too close to this area might get a lot of street noise on weekend nights. For this reason, the neighborhoods just off Laugavegur tend to be popular for guesthouses: Þingholt, Skuggahverfi, Ásgarður and Skólavörðuholt.

What’s in a name?

Although they may look like gibberish to the untrained eye, Reykjavík place names always have a story to tell…

Laugavegur

Literally “pool-street”, this was the path washerwomen took to do their laundry at the thermal pools in Laugadalur valley.

Ásgarður

Home of the gods in Norse mythology, this neighborhood has streets named after the gods: Lokastígur (Loki’s lane), Óðinsgata (Odin’s street), Freyjugata (Freyja’s street), etc.

Skuggahverfi.

Literarlly “shadowland”, this neighborhood is not named for the looming high-rises on the coast that now cast the neighborhood in shadow, but for a homestead that use to sit on the land called Skuggi (“Shadow”).

t the Blue Lagoon you will find A accommodation available at the Blue Lagoon Clinic Hotel, which is located at a ten minute walking distance from the actual lagoon.

Hotels 101 Hotel Hverfisgata 10, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 5800 101 www.101hotel.is

Blue Arctic Hotel Suðurgata Suðurgata 121, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 511 1531 www.bluearctichotels.is

Fosshotel Baron Baronstígur 2-4, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 562 4000 www.fosshotel.is

Center Hotel Plaza Adalstraeti 4, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 595-8550 www.centerhotels.com

Fosshotel Lind Rauðararstigur 18, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 562 3350 www.fosshotel.is

AdaM Hotel Skolavordustigur 42, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 896 0242 www.adamhotel.com

CenterHotel Arnarhvoll Ingolfsstraeti 1, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 595 8540 www.centerhotels.com

Grand Hotel Reykjavík Sigtun 38, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 514 8000 www.grand.is

Arctic Comfort Sidumuli 19, 108 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 588 5588 www.arcticcomforthotel.is

CenterHotel Klopp Klapparstigur 26 , 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 595 8520 www.centerhotels.com

Hilton Reykjavík Nordica Suðurlandsbraut 2, 108 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 444 5000 www.hiltonreykjavik.com

Best Western Hotel Reykjavík Raudararstigur 37, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 514 7000 www.hotelreykjavik.is

CenterHotel Skjaldbreid Laugavegur 16, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 595 8510 www.centerhotels.com

Hotel Bjork Brautarholt 22-24, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 3777 www.keahotels.is

4th floor Hotel Laugavegur 101, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 3030 www.4thfloorhotel.is

Blue Arctic Hotel Garðurinn Hringbraut 29, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 1530 www.bluearctichotels.is

City Center Hotel Austurstræti 6, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 571 1400 http://citycenterhotel.is

121 ACCOMODATION

The rooms at the clinic hotel are well designed and spacious with a nice porch overlooking the lava fields. Guests at the Clinic Hotel gets a complimentary entrance to the Blue Lagoon as well as access to a private lagoon at the Clinic Hotel.

Hotel Borg Pósthússtræti 11, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 551 1440 www.hotelborg.is

www.icelandtoday.is

Hotel Cabin Borgartun 32, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 6030 www.hotelcabin.is

Hotel Laxnes Háholt 7, 270 Mosfellsbaer Tel: (+354) 566 8822 www.hotellaxnes.is

Hotel Floki Flokagata 1, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 552 1155 www.hotelfloki.is

Hotel Leifur Eiriksson Skolavordustigur 45, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 562 0800 www.hotelleifur.is

Hotel Fron Laugavegur 22A, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 4666 www.hotelfron.is Hótel Garður Hringbraut 29, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 571 6200 www.hotelgarður.is Hotel Hafnarfjörður Reykjavikurvegur 72, 220 Hafnarfjördur Tel: (+354) 540 9700 www.hhotel.is Hotel Hilda Barugata 11, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 8976603 www.hotelhilda.is

122 Hotel Holt

Hotel Odinsve Þórsgata 1, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 6200 www.hotelodinsve.is Hotel Orkin Seamanshome Brautarholt 29, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 568 0777 www.hotelorkin.is Hotel Phoenix Laugavegur 140, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 5002 www.phoenix.is Hotel Reykjavik Centrum Adalstraeti 16, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 514 6000 www.hotelcentrum.is

Bergstadarstraeti 37, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 552 5700 www.hotelholt.is

Hótel Skjaldbreið Laugavegi 16, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 595 8510 www.centerhotels.is

Hotel Klettur Mjölnisholt 12-14, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 440 1600 http://hotelklettur.is

Hotel Smári Hlidarsmari 13 , 200 Kopavogur Tel: (+354) 588 1900 www.hotelsmari.is Hotel Viking Strandgata 52, 220 Hafnarfjordu Tel: (+354) 565 1213 www.fjorukrain.is

Hótels Þingholt Þingholtsstræti 3- 5, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 595 8530 www.centerhotels.is Hotel66 Grensásvegur 14, 108 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 588 000 www.hotal66.is Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina Mýrargata 2, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 560 8000 http://icelandairhotels.com Metropolitan Hotel Ránargata 4a, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 1155 www.metropolitan.is Park Inn Island Hotel Armuli 9, 108 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 595 7000 www.parkinn.com Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel Posthusstraeti 2, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 599 1000 www.radissonblu.com Radisson Blu Saga Hotel Hagatorg, 107 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 525 9900 www.radissonblu.com Reykjavik Natura Nauthólsvegur 52, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 444 4000 http://icelandairhotels.com

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ACCOMODATION

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Guesthouses FOR ANY BUDGET árni's place Historical house in Þingholt, 200 meters from Laugavegur. Tall ceilings with big windows. All rooms with free WiFi. Across from great neighborhood bakery. Bergstaðastræti 14, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 661 7015 arnisplace@gmail.com www.arnisplace.com

loki Cozy guesthouse tucked away on a quiet street in Þingholt, the old part of town. Right next to the Hallgrímskirkja church and Skólavörðustígur. Great location. Lokastígur 24a, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 553 9344 loki101@loki101.is www.loki101.is

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Guesthouses 101 Guesthouse Laugavegur 101, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 562 6101 www.iceland101.com

Alfholl Guesthouse Ranargata 8, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 898 1838 www.alfholl.is

Art centrum Grjótagata 6, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 847 1567 www.artcentrum.is

101 Skuggi gesthouse Lindargötu 50, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 662 4101 www.wix.com/101skuggi/ reykjavik.is

Anna Guesthouse Smaragata 16 , 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 562 1618 www.guesthouseanna.is

Askot Asvallagata 52, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 562 8283 www.askot.is

AR Guesthouse Bræðraborgarstígur 3, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 859 3979 www.arguesthouse.is

Aurora Guesthouse Freyjugata 24, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 552 5515 www.aurorahouse.is

3 Sisters Ranargata 16, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 565 2181 www.threesisters.is 32 Tungata Tungata 32, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 821 9353 www.tungata.com AdaMhótel Skólavörðustíg 42, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 896 0242 www.adamhotel.com ALBA Guesthouse Eskihlid 3, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 552 9800 www.alba.is

Arahús Guesthouse Strandgata 21, 220 Hafnarfjordur Tel: (+354) 555 1770 www.arahus.is Arctic Comfort Síðumúla 19, 108 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 588 5588 www. arcticcomforthotel.is Arni’s Place Bergstadastraeti 14, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 661 7015 / 661 6192 www.arnisplace.com

Baldursbra Guesthouse Laufasvegur 41, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 552 6646 Bína guesthouse Bugðulækur 1, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 588-7585 Bláklukka Guesthouse Hvammsgerði 12, 108 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 8483878 www.blaklukka.com

Borgartun Guesthouse Borgartun 34, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 1515 www.gjtravel.is Brattagata guesthouse Brattagata 3b, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 612 9800 http://brattagata.123.is

Capital-Inn Guesthouse Sudurhlið 35d, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 588 2100 www.capitalinn.is Centre Aparment Laugavegi 70, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 822 1929 www.aparments.com

Eric the Red Guesthouse Eiríksgata 6, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 552 1940 www.eric.is Fitjar Guesthouse Fitjar, 270 Mosfellsbær Tel: (+354) 565 6474 www.fitjarguesthouse.com Forsaela Apartmenthouse Grettisgata 33b - 35b, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 551 6046 www.apartmenthouse.is

Gallery Central Ranargata 11, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 899 9445 Chez Monique Guesthouse www.gallerycentral.is Tjarnargata 10 B, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 562 3377 Galtafell Guesthouse www.chezmonique.is Laufasvegur 46, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 551 4344 www.galtafell.com Domus Guesthouse Hverfisgata 45, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 561 1200 Guesthouse BB44 www.domusguesthouse.is Borgarholtsbraut 44, 200 Kópavogur Tel: (+354) 554 4228 Downtown Konrads www.bb44.is Guesthouse B&B Lindargata 23, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 664 5726 Guesthouse Draupnir Odinsgata 15, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 552 4494 Egilsborg Guesthouse www.ghdraupnir.com Þverholt 20, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 561 2600 www.guesthouse1.com

Guesthouse Elsa Fálkastígur 4, 225 Álftanes Tel: (+354) 565 0966 Guesthouse Eyvindarholt Eyvindarholti, 225 Álftanes Tel: (+354) 849 4361

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Guesthouse Hafdís Brekkustíg 17, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 899 6255

ACCOMODATION

Butterfly Guesthouse Ranargata 8a, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 894 1864 www.butterfly.is

Ellidahvammur Guesthouse Ellidahvammurv/Vatnsenda, 203 Kopavogur Tel: (+354) 567 0230 www.farmholidays.is

Guesthouse in Reykjavík Laugarnestangi 60, 105 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 588 1874 Guesthouse Lena Fjólugata 11, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 898 0362 Guesthouse Monica Blondal Aflagrandi 20, 107 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 552 3644 Guesthouse Octavo Ásvallagata 21 / Framnesvegur 18, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 693-3699 www.guesthouseoctavo.is Guesthouse Odinn Odinsgata 9, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 561 3400 www.odinnreykjavik.com Guesthouse Sunna Thorsgata 26, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 5570 www.sunna.is

Reykjavik Downtown

Hotel Flóki

ble

Dou

Triple Quad

At the doorsteps of downtown Reykjavik

Hotel Flóki

GUESTHOUSE Friendly and comfortable

Flókagata 1 - 105 Reykjavik - www.hotelfloki.is

Great location at a very good price

Single

Contact info: 354 552 11 55 www.hotelfloki.is info@hotelfloki.is

www.icelandtoday.is

GUESTHOUSE

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Hafnarfjörður Guesthouse Moby Dick Guesthouse Hjallabraut 51, 220 Hafnarfjörður Lindargata 50, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 565 0900 Tel: (+354) 561 4093 http://hafnarfjordurguesthouse.is Palshus Guesthouse Heida’s Home/Center Einarsnes 58, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 552 1157 Hverfisgata 102, 101 Reykjavík www.palshus.is Tel: (+354) 553 6435 www.heidashome.com Pisa Guesthouse Helguhus Guesthouse Laekjargata 6b, 101 Reykjavik Laekjarkinn 8, 220 Hafnarfjordur Tel: (+354) 578 7200 www.pisa.is Tel: (+354) 555 2842 www.helguhus.is Room4U Guesthouse Holl Cottage Guesthouse Efstasund 83, 104 REykjavik Tel: (+354) 553 7045 Grjotagata 12 101 Reykjavik +354 551 2044 Salvation Army Guesthouse Home Luxury Apartments Kirkjustraeti 2, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 561 3203 Skolastraeti 1, 101 Reykjavik www.guesthouse.is Tel: (+354) 561 5570 www.homereykjavik.is Self Catering Accomodation House of the Spirits Gardastraeti 8, 101 Reykjavik Grundartanga 23 270, Tel: (+354) 698 3526 Mosfellsbæ http://houseofspirits101.com Tel: (+354) 898 7720 www.270mos.is Konrad´s Downtown Guesthouse Snorri Guesthouse Lindargötu 50, Snorrabraut 61 , 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 6645726 Tel: (+354) 552 0589 www.guesthousereykjavik.com Kriunes Guesthouse Við Vatnsenda, 203 Kopavogur Thor Guesthouse Tel: (+354) 567 2245 Skolavordustigur 16, 4th floor, www.kriunes.is 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 562 5482 www.thor-guesthouse.com Lily Guesthouse Nýbýlavegur 30, 200 Kópavogur Tel: (+354) 555 2345 Tjaldanes www.lily.is 270 Mosfellsbær Tel: (+354) 896 8926 www.tjaldanes.is Loki 101 Guesthouse Lokastígur 24a, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 553 9344 Tower and Perlan www.loki101.is Guesthouse Grettisgata 22c, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 561 8020 Luna Hotel Apartments www.tower.is Spitalastigur 1, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 511 2800 www.luna.is Town House Laugateigur 26, 105 Reykjavik Minna-Mosfell Guesthouse Tel: (+354) 618 3618 Minna-Mosfell, 271 Mosfellsbær http://townhouse.is Tel: (+354) 669 03566 www.minnamosfell.net

White Swan Guesthouse Vatnsstigur 11, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 533 4101 www.reykjavikguesthouse.is Vid Laekinn Guesthouse Laekjarkinn 2, 220 Hafnarfjördur Tel: (+354) 565 5132

Hostels Bus Hostel Skógarhlíð 10, 105 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 535 0350 www.bushostelreykjavik.com Kex Hostel Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 561 60 60 www.kexhostel.is Reykjavik Backpackers Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 578 3700 www.reykjavikbackpackers.com Reykjavik City Hostel Sundlaugavegur 34, 105 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 553 8110 www.hostel.is/Hostels/ Reykjavikcity/ Reykjavik Downtown Hostel Vesturgata 17, 101 Reykjavik Tel: (+354) 553 8120 www.hostel.is/Hostels/ Reykjavikdowntown Reykjavík Loft hostels Bankastræti 7, 101Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 553 8140 w www. hostel.is/hostel/ reykjavikloft.is

Campsites Hafnarfjörður Camping Hjallabraut 51, 220 Hafnarfjörður Tel: (+354) 565 0900 http://www. hafnarfjordurguesthouse.is Reykjavík Campsite Sundlaugavegur 32, 105 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 568 6944 www.reykjavikcampsite.is

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GOOD TO KNOW

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THE LOWDOWN ON REYKJAVÍK H

ere you’ll find the nitty-gritty nuts and bolts of life in the city. Although Reykjavík is a relatively small place, it may take some time to figure out how to navigate the city. Most of downtown can be covered by foot, but when you leave the centre things get a little trickier.

domestic air terminal

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Air Iceland (not to be confused with Icelandair) maintains a domestic network based in Reykjavík with destinations around the island and links to the Faeroe Islands and Greenland. Reykjavík Municipal Airport (+354) 570 3030 www.airiceland.is

Bsi-Bus terminal

Take the bus to destinations all around the island. Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, 101 Reykjavík (+354) 580 5400 www.bsi.is

Ride-share

A free site used both by drivers looking for passengers and passengers looking for rides. Great tool if you’re looking to get out of the city (or back) on the cheap. www.samferda.is

From & TO the Airport

Whether a local picks you up or you have your own rented car, the airport bus service is a normal straightforward option. You might as well consider grabbing a taxi that takes you from door to door. Duration 40 – 50 minutes driving through the glorious mossy lava fields of Reykjanes peninsula to the capital.

FLYBUS (fugrútan) www.flybus.is, (+354) 562 1011

AIRPORT EXPRESS www.airportexpress.is, (+354) 540 1313

Arrival

Buy your ticket in the arrivals terminal or online. Flybus takes you from Keflavík airport to BSÍ terminal close to the city centre. Once you get to BSÍ, there should be taxis

waiting to take you to your destination in Reykjavík. Some hotels provide shuttles from BSÍ. Airport Express takes you from Keflavík to the centre of Reykjavík at Hafnarstraeti 20, not far away from the main taxi-stand on Lækjargata.

Departure

Book your seat the day prior to departure. Your hotel or guesthouse can normally help you with this.

Taxis in Reykjavík

Taxis in Reykjavík tend to be rather nice: Mercedes, Audis, etc. You can always pay with a credit card and it is not customary to tip. Taxis are normally summoned with a phone call or go to a taxi stand. Hreyfill-Bæjarleiðir Tel: (+354) 588 5522 Bifreiðastöð Reykjavíkur Tel: (+354) 561 0000

DRIVING IN Reykjavík Speed limits

On city streets the speed limit is generally 50kph / 30mph, unless otherwise posted. There are speed bumps, roundabouts and traffic cameras to make sure you don’t go too fast.

Seatbelts

Wearing seatbelts at all times is mandatory and children

under the age of five must be strapped into an approved child seat.

Cyclists

Bicycles in Reykjavík have been increasing greatly and they are now a presence on the road. Give them space.

Parking

Free parking is extremely hard to find in the city centre, and violators are towed away

literally within minutes. The city uses both parking meters as well as dashboard slips for metered parking. Even though the locals park up on the sidewalk sometimes, don’t be tempted. You will be ticketed.

Cell phones

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

Drunk driving

If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol level of .05 then you will be charged with a DWI (driving while intoxicated) and your car will be impounded. The police are not lax about this. So see the section on taxis above.

Rush hours

While the idea of “rush hour” is relative in such a small city, Reykjavík is a car-based city and its major traffic arteries will fill up from 7:30 to 9:30 and 17:00 to 18:30.

Gas stations

Most gas stations are open every day from 8:00 to 23:30— many with 24-hour pay at-the-pump facilities. To pay at the pump your card generally needs to have a chip and a PIN number (although some also accept bills).

These giant, yellow bananas ploughing through the city are the cheapest way to get around Reykjavík. Bus maps are available at bus stations and tourist information centres. Most bus stops with a shelter also include a route map. If you have an address for your destination you can go to www.bus.is, also in English, and get precise directions about which buses to use.

Operating hours:

Daily from 6:30 / 7:00 until midnight, except on Sundays and most holidays, when it runs from 11:30 / noon until

midnight. There is no bus service on Good Friday, Easter, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Fares and tickets:

Single trips can be purchased from the driver and cost ISK 350. Bus drivers don’t make change so you need to have exact change or buy your tickets in advance. If you need to change buses remember to ask for a transfer or “skiptimiði”. Language skills vary, you can however ask them to tell you when approaching your destination.

Bus cards for zone 1

(all of greater Reykjavík) 1 day 900 kr 3 days 2.200 kr 1 month 9.300 kr 3 months 21.000kr 9 months 49.900 kr can also be purchased at the central bus stations:

Stations

Hlemmur Lækjartorg Mjódd Ártún Spöng Háholt Ásgarður Fjörður

GOOD TO KNOW

CITY BUS (STRÆTÓ)

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Area

Downtown East Downtown West Breiðholt Árbær Grafavogur Mosfellsbær Garðabær Hafnarfjörður

PHONE HOME Cell phones work almost all over Iceland. If you think you’re going to be calling a lot, you can also buy phone cards at most grocery- and convenience stores.

Reykjavík in your pocket – for free!

Mobileguide is an interactive guide of the Reykjavík capital area that is specifically developed for mobile devices; you simply have to open the link mobileguide.is/ download in the browser on your mobile phone.

Dialling

If your cell phone uses a GSM card that is unlocked, you can get an Icelandic SIM card and use a pre-paid service (“Frelsi” in Icelandic). There are currently four service providers in the country: Nova (nova.is), Síminn (siminn.is), Tal (tal.is) and Vodafone (vodafone.is). You can top up your phone through the company’s service number or buy cards from convenience stores.

Phone Centre

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

Internet Access & Hot Spots

The tourist office at Aðalstræti 2 offers Internet access on their own computers for a fee. Alternatively, if you have your own device, you can use WiFi at almost any café

or bar downtown for free (sometimes you have to buy a coffee). Many hotels and guesthouses also offer free WiFi.

Phonebook & Online Maps The Icelandic phone book lists people by their first names. Seriously. You can access the directory online at ja.is (as well as interactive, searchable maps, directions and Yellow Pages).

Directory information & International assistance DIAL 118 or DIAL 1811 the 24/7 service for information about: • names and addresses, phone, mobile and fax numbers, Yellow Pages • be connected to international numbers • make collect calls

www.icelandtoday.is

When dialling internationally in Iceland (even from your own cell), dial 00 to get out of the country, then select the country code, then the number. When dialling local numbers you don’t need to include the 354-country code, only the last seven digits.

Cell Phones / GSM

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LANGUAGE • HISTORY • CULTURE • FOOD AND FUN

Reykjavík Walk

Meet the natives

131 GOOD TO KNOW

Before Lækjargata around 1900

After Lækjargata 2013

Daily from Harpa, the Concert Hall, at 1 PM.

Daily at Borgartún 1 at 1 PM.

An entertaining, educating and easy walking tour in downtown Reykjavík through its past and present.

Short courses, with proficient language teacher, 3 hours at the most, on how to meet the natives in cafes, restaurants, swimming pools etc.

Experience the past and enjoy today’s history with a native. Our Icelandic historian and professional guide, brings old stories to life and shares the present with you, while strolling the Reykjavík streets. Old photos of Reykjavík at every stop!

Informal conversations, full of fun, photos and phrases. What is ð and þ? Just Icelandic? How come the Icelanders don’t use the word TV for TV?

BOOK NOW: Tel. +354 551 7700 • Mobile +354 821 7163 Included for both activities: Typical Icelandic afternoon coffee and cakes “Dash“ of Icelandic Cake History

Free for children under 16 www.icelandtoday.is

Borgartún 1 • 105 Reykjavík • Tel. + 354 551 7700/+ 354 821 7163 info@tincanfactory.eu www.tincanfactory.eu

EVERYTHING ELSE Churches in Reykjavík

If you are in the mood for a church visit, whether for mass or curiosity, then there are a lot to choose from, open to the public, offering worth-visiting ceremonies all year round.

Universities in Reykjavík

You don’t need to be a student to check out the educational side of Reykjavík. Both universities are situated in the city centre and offer a variety of interesting programmes the year round.

Háskólinn í Reykjavík

(Reykjavík University) is a vibrant international university and the largest private university in the country. Located at the heart of Reykjavík close to Nauthólsvík beach. www.ru.is

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Hallgrimskirkja, 1945-1986, is the tallest church in Iceland and offers a fantastic towerview over the city. The church also holds the largest organ in the country. Open every day 9.00 - 17.00. Domkirkjan (Cathedral of Reykjavík), 1787, located in the heart of Reykjavík next to the parliament building, holds the office of the Bishop of Iceland and is thus the main church of the Lutheran establishment in Iceland. Open every day 10-16:30. Landakotskirkja (Catholic Cathedral), 1929, is located in the western part of the city centre and offers the catholic service of the capital.

Háskóli Íslands (University of Iceland) is the state-owned educational and scientific institution, renowned in the global scientific community for its research. You’ll find it situated next to the National Museum in the heart of Reykjavík. www.hi.is

News in English

24 hours a day BBC Live for the greater Reykjavík area on FM 94.3.

Media

Main daily Icelandic papers are Morgunblaðið (mbl.is) along with the Fréttablaðið (visir.is). The Reykjavík Grapevine (www.grapevine. is) is a weekly paper in English available around the city. Iceland Review (www. icelandreview com) publishes the daily news from Iceland translated in English.

Opening hours

Public institutions: Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 15:00 or 16:00. General office hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00.

Banks

Monday-Friday most banks open from 9:00 to 16:00. The Arion and the Islandsbanki bank branches at Kringlan shopping mall have longer hours and are open on Saturdays.

Shops

Shop hours vary, but they are generally from 10:00 to 18:00 Mondays to Thursdays, Fridays from 10:00 to 19:00 and Saturdays from 10:00 to 16:00. Malls usually have extended hours on Thursdays and weekends.

Late night shopping

Open 24 / 7 / 365 Netto supermarket in Mjódd The 10-11 stores at Austurstraæti and Barónstigur. Hagkaup at Skeifan and the Noatún stores. Krambúð next to Hallgrímskirkja church is open to 23:30. Lyfja pharmacy (+354 533 2300) on Lágmúli (next to Hotel Hilton) is open until 1:00.

Mobile: m.en.vedur.is

www.vedur.is

Weather forecast in English: 902 06 00

Connect to

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coverage in Iceland

siminn.is I @siminn on Twitter

Pay less with Frelsi Prepaid It can be costly to use your regular phone card overseas. Buy a prepaid SIM card package, which includes a mobile number and an ISK 2000 voucher, in any SĂminn store and in kiosks, gas stations and grocery stores.

www.icelandtoday.is

Use Frelsi Prepaid to stay in touch with friends and family

GOOD TO KNOW

the largest 3G

Public HOLIDAYS

June 2013-May 2014 June 17 National Day (Lýðveldisdagur) Aug. 5 Merchant’s Weekend (Verslunarmannahelgi) Dec. 24-26 Christmas (Jól) Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve (Gamlárskvöld) 2014

May. 1 Labor Day (Verkalýðsdagur)

The emergency number in Iceland is 112. Use it in any emergency for ambulance, fire department, medical help, police and doctors. Doctors on duty 1770 Dentists on duty (+354) 575 0505 Weather (+354) 902 0600 Police – Non-emergency Hverfisgata 113 (+354) 444 1000

May. 29 Ascension (Uppstigningardagur)

Lost/Stolen Credit Cards

Jan. 1 New Year’s Day (Nýársdagur) Apr. 17 Maundy Thursday (Skírdagur) Apr. 18 Good Friday (Föstudagurinn langi) Apr. 20 Easter (Páskar) Apr. 24 First Day of Summer (Sumardagurinn fyrsti),

Jun. 8 Whit Sunday (Hvítasunnudagur) Jun. 9 Whit Monday (Annar í hvítasunnu),

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useful numbers

VISA: (+354) 525 2000 MasterCard: (+354) 533 1400 Amex: (+354) 575 5900

This year’s addition to the Reykjavík City Guide is the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar), only a daytrip away from the capital. 40 years has past since the volcano eruption began on the 23rd of January 1973, ending some long and exhausting 6 months later. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the remains from that enormous eruption and take a look at houses that have only recently been dug out from under the lava untouched for 40 years

135 GOOD TO KNOW

A DAY TRIP CLOSE TO REYKJAVÍK

A ONCE IN A LIFE TIME EXPERIENCE VESTMANNAEYJAR

www.icelandtoday.is

WELCOME TO vestmannaeyjar - 40 years after the dramatic volcanic eruption There are places in the world that simply have to be experienced. Vestmannaeyjar fills that definition by virtue of its natural beauty, the bounty of its wildlife, particularly the huge colonies of puffins and seabirds, and by being historically and geographically one of Iceland‘s most distinctive destinations.

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he volcanic eruption in Vestmannaeyjar 1973 is, without a doubt, considered the largest natural disaster in Iceland’s recent history.

The eruption begun on January 23rd on the island Heimaey, the only populated island of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. After the evacuation of the 5.300 inhabitants, and during the 5 months while the eruption lasted, there was much uncertainty as to whether or not the island could ever be repopulated. The eruption destroyed a large part of town, and changed the landscape of the island. Now that 40 years have passed there are many different events and exhibitions to see end learn about this big and dramatic volcanic eruption. Vestmannaeyjar have more than the volcanic history. Most of the islands of the archipelago were all geologically formed by volcanic eruptions 6000 -60.000 years ago, though at least one is considerably younger. The island of Surtsey, just 20 miles of the main island erupted from the ocean floor in 1963. Surtsey is descriped on UNESCO‘s World Heritage List for its protection and how it provides a unique scientific record regarding the process of colonization of land by plants, animals and marine organisms. The travel industry in Vestmannaeyjar puts genuine effort into making everyone´s visit special - whether they are

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How to get there

Visitors to Vestmannaeyjar can get there by taking a 20 minute flight from the airport in Reykjavík or with the ferry Herjólfur, which sails between Landeyjahöfn located on the south coast of Iceland (about a 2 hour drive from Reykjavík) and Vestmannaeyjar. A bus from the main bus station in Reykjavík has a schedule that makes a connecting trip or one can take one‘s car onto the ferry. The trip by sea across to the island takes about 35 minutes.

A DAY TRIP CLOSE TO REYKJAVÍK

there to see the extraordinary nature and huge bird colonies, participate in hiking the paths over cliff tops and across lava fields, or play golf on one of the best 18-hole golf courses in Iceland. There are organized sightseeing tours by a bus boat and even by horseback. There is no doubt that visitors who come to Vestmannaeyjar will experience the magical and unique adventure that could only happen in a place like on those islands located at the remote North Atlantic off the south coast of Iceland.

More info’s: Vestmannaeyjar tourist information Tel. + 354 488 2555, tourinfo@vestmannaeyjar.is, www.vestmannaeyjar.is

www.icelandtoday.is

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Golf í Eyjum www.gvgolf.is

einstök upplifun!

- einstakur völlur, í einstakri náttúru

Golfklúbbur Vestmannaeyja

VESTMANNABRAUT 28 (HOTEL VESTMANNAEYJAR)

THE WONDERS OF VESTMANNAEYJAR

tel.+354 488 4884 www.vikingtours.is

Check out our website for wide variety of sightseeing tours and activities

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We’ll take you there!

GOOD A DAY TO TRIP KNOW CLOSE TO REYKJAVÍK

WESTMAN ISLANDS

BoatTours ~ CoachTours

s for Come and join u er a day to rememb

+354-661-1810 info@ribsafari.is

Tour Operator

Authorised by Icelandic Tourist Board

Herjólfsgata 4 • 900 Westman Island • +354-481 3400 www.guesthousehamar.com • infohamar@gmail.com

www.icelandtoday.is

• Big Room with bathroom • Great Central Location • Free Internet

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Hönnun E. Backman Allur réttur áskilinn ®

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ICELANDIC WOOL

WORN OUT FOR CENTURIES

Offering of clothing & other merchandise that reminds us of good old Iceland

Visit our stores: 101 ReykjavĂk, Akureyri and Haukadalur. www.geysir.net