Reykjavik City Guide 2014-2015 by MD Reykjavik

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE AND MAP

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• THINGS TO DO • EVENTS • ACCOMMODATION

20 14

• MUSEUMS & GALLERIES • WINING & DINING • SHOPPING

0 15

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT REYKJAVIK

GLACIER WALKS AND

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Ministry for the Environment and Natural Resources

2006 For designing and developing Glacier Walks.

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ICELANDAIR PIONEER AWARD

MOUNTAINGUIDES.IS info@mountainguides.is · Tel: +354 587 9999 1

MAKE SURE IT’S MOUNTAIN GUIDES

Spör ehf.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

THE WONdErS Of

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

Vestmannaeyjar 1973, Eyjafjallajökull 2010 and other volcanoes Showtimes

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

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

Geological Exhibition you may touch Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavik | (354) 555 1900 volcanohouse.is

VOLCANO HOUSE Cinema | Geological Exhibition

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-Feb

Mar 9:00

13:00

Apr 9:00

May 9:00

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

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

Aug Sep 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

www.elding.is

CITY CENTER

INFORMATION POINTS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Saga Museum Tourist Information & Booking Trip Tourist Information & Booking MyReykjavik Tourist Information Iceland on track Tourist Information City Hall Parliament Building Dóm Church Flea market Catholic Church Government House National and University Library University of Iceland Vesturbær Outdoor Thermal Pool Air Iceland Domestic Air Terminal BSÍ Coach Terminal Flybus to Inter. Airport Hallgrímskirkja National Hospital Reykjavík Indoor Thermal Pool Höfði House Laugardalur Outdoor Thermal Pool Hostel and Camping site Laugardalur Sports Hall Laugardalur Sports stadium Skating Hall Botanical Garden Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park Geysir simulator, Perlan Nauthólsvík Thermal Beach National Hospital at Fossvogur Emergency Ward

31 Broadcasting House 32 City Theatre 33 Kringlan Shopping Center 34 The Handknitting As. Store 35 Life of Whales 36 Elding Reykjavík Whalewatching 37 Special Tours Whale & Puffin Watching 38 Volcano House 39 Breiðholt Outdoor Thermal Pool 40 Árbær Outdoor Thermal Pool 41 Tourist Information Center National Art Gallery The Culture House The Nordic House Reykjavík Art Museum, Hafnarhús Reykjavík Museum of Photography, City Library National Museum of Iceland Árni Magnússon Institute Telecommunication Museum ASÍ Art Gallery Einar Jónsson Museum Reykjavík Art Museum, Kjarvalsstaðir Reykjavík Art Museum, Ásmundur Sveinsson Museum Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum Reykjavík 871+/-2 Reykjavík Maritime Museum

Árbæjarsafn - Reykjavík Museum Gerðuberg Cultural Center Reykjavík Electricity Museum Perlan View Point 1

A Viking museum which gives a compelling view into Icelandic history 0m

500 m

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

CONTENTS LIST REYKJAVIK 10-25 MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

26-37

SHOPPING 38-45 WINING & DINING

46-65

THINGS TO DO

66-109

EVENTS 110-117 ACCOMMODATION 118-125 PRACTICAL INFORMATION

126-129

NEIGHBOURING TOWNS

130-139

MAP OF REYKJAVIK

140-141

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

Printed and distributed in 100,000 copies.

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

I C E CO L A

B EL

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

PUBLISHED BY: MD Reykjavik ehf.

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

PRINTING: Oddi, Ecolabelled Printing Company.

141

776

PRINTED MATTER

ÍSLENSKA/SIA.IS/FLU 69518 06/14

AIRICELAND.IS

ACTION PACKED TOURS ICELAND AND GREENLAND Air Iceland is your West Nordic airline, offering scheduled domestic flights and flights from Iceland to the Faroe Islands and Greenland. Choose from a variety of day tour packages in Iceland, and to Greenland, which include flight, bus transfer and guidance. A FEW EXAMPLES

Day Tour

LOCAL FOOD AND GOURMET

NATURE TOUR

Akureyri

Skálanes and Seyðisfjörður

Day Tour

LAKE MÝVATN

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NORTH

Mývatn

Day Tour

8 hour Day Tour / Hiking Tour

FISHERMAN CULTURE DAY

REMARKABLE GREENLAND

Ísafjörður

Greenland – Kulusuk

CONTACT AIR ICELAND OR ANY TRAVEL AGENT FOR RESERVATIONS

For more Day Tours, look at our website www.airceland.is websales@airiceland.is tel. +354 570 3030

WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

Reykjavík may be one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, but it still packs a powerful cultural punch, where visitors can enjoy a multitude of various events and festivals all year round! With a fascinating history rooted in the great Sagas and its unique location within a land of diverse landscapes – all filled to the brim with super-nature, Reykjavik manages to combine a terrific blend of hip and wholesome, but without the stress that usually follows a cosmopolitan metropolis. In fact Icelanders are considered to be so easy-going and gregarious, that they’ve just added a new travel accolade to their growing collection for being the friendliest nation in the world! Whether illuminated by the unending daylight of summertime or the spectacular Aurora Borealis during the winter, Reykjavik has become a popular alternative travel destination for all seasons, offering a myriad of adventures and a paradise of possibilities for all who visit! From the Vikings of old, to the architects and innovators of contemporary culture, many different groups have influenced the shaping

of the capital area into the vibrant city it is today – a city which is said to buzz with creative energy and passion. This feel-good-factor people tend to experience while visiting could have something to do with the pristine air or water pure drinking water, or perhaps the proximity of all those extraordinary 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.

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!

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

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

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK 1 | Stroll around the city centre, admire the colourful old houses and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere by Tjörnin pond. 2 | Soak your stress away in one of the city’s relaxing thermal pools. 3 | Get to know Iceland’s fascinating cultural heritage or modern art at one of the city’s museums and galleries.

6 | Pick up some Icelandic design, clothing or jewelry. 7 | Test your stamina with a night on the town “Reykjavík style”.

9 | Visit one of Reykjavík’s restaurants to give your taste buds a treat with seafood from Iceland’s pristine waters. 10 | Be amazed at the sight of whales and dolphins 4 | Take a special guided tour of the award winning Harpa concert hall! 5 | Climb up the steps of Hallgrímskirkja church’s steeple for a panoramic view of the city.

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

8 | Visit The Pearl – a structure straight out of the future, with a viewing platform and a revolving restaurant on top of hot water storage tanks.

HISTORY OF REYKJAVIK According 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 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.

Reykjavík’s largest shopping centre

FREE SHUTTLE BUS Departures from the tourist information center, Aðalstræti 2

TO KRINGLAN Monday – Saturday Every hour 10 am – 5 pm Sundays 1, 2, 3, 4 pm

FROM KRINGLAN Every half hour 11:30 am – 4:30 pm 2:30, 3:30, 4:30 pm

May 1st – September 15th 2014

REYKJAVIK FOR THE SEASONS Reykjavík 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.

SUMMER 14

With almost 24 hours of daylight during the summer, Reykjavík truly becomes the city that never sleeps – with popular summertime activities including whale-watching, sea-fishing, horseback-riding and trips to the many natural wonders nearby. Perhaps one of the more remarkable summer destinations within Reykjavik city is the geothermal beach found at Nauthólsvík, where you can spend the afternoon enjoying a picnic or swimming in a heated ocean lagoon. Sea-swimmers will also be pleased to learn that they can enjoy the cooler

waters of the Atlantic, and then warmup afterwards in the sauna or one of the two giant hot-tubs onsite. One of the more unusual facts about Reykjavík is its abundance of exceptional coffee houses, all staffed with talented baristas. On a hot sunny day the thriving coffee-culture often spills out onto the streets – particularly around the Austurvöllur Square area, where coffee-loving crowds can be found sat outside sipping on a frappe-latte while soaking-up the sun.

AUTUMN

Reykjavík’s calendar of events kicks into high gear during the fall with many important international conferences and big cultural festivals taking place. Starting dramatically at the end of September is the Reykjavík International Film Festival, which highlights independent filmmaking and showcases the work of up-andcoming filmmakers. Fans of peace, love and John Lennon won’t want to miss Yoko Ono’s annual Imagine Peace Tower ceremony in October, where she invites residents and visitors to join her for the illumination of a super-beam of light on Viðey Island in celebration of both John Lennon’s vision of peace and his birthday. In late October/early November you can experience the country’s crowning music event

– Iceland Airwaves, which regularly draws top performers, countless festivalgoers and media attention from around the globe.

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. Wintersports enthusiasts will find many of exciting winter tours available from Reykjavík including monster jeep tours, horseback riding, dog sledding and snowmobiling on a glacier etc. Christmas season is always celebrated

in great splendor where the city’s buildings, trees and streets are decorated with countless fairy lights, ornaments and 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 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.

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

SPRING

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

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

REYKJAVIK LOVES... WINING & DINING:

While Iceland might be famous for its more traditional delicacies such as pickled ram’s testicles and putrefied shark, visitors will be pleased to learn that Reykjavík is also fast becoming one of the best locations to sample quality new Nordic cuisine, all cooked up by our treasured local and international talent using those fresh and sumptuous ingredients Iceland is so famous for! Food aficionados will also be pleased and perhaps even impressed by the number of diverse restaurants in Reykjavík - mostly staffed with award winning chefs that create both imaginative and delicious cuisine. We recommend visitors try out in particular the Icelandic cuisine, which is characterized by an imaginative use of local ingredients such as fresh seafood,

organic lamb and wild game; but be sure to try the fabulous Icelandic hotdog and pizza too! Apart from the great food available in Reykjavík, the city also boasts a remarkable café culture, where trained baristas serving quality coffee are the rule rather than the exception. For an even greater surprise we encourage our guests to give their taste buds a treat by sampling some the various award winning local beers available. There’s even a school of beer run by the city’s oldest brewery for those who like a little history to go with their beer tasting!

SHOPPING & DESIGN For the best shopping experience in Reykjavík we recommend you hit the downtown area of the city which is where most of the shops and boutiques are concentrated. Whether you’re looking to get a gift or souvenir, something unique from one of our many talented designers or even a midnight snack, the city centre is well supplied with brand names, obscure fashion shops, quality art studios and convenience stores. A wander around the city’s famous shopping streets of Laugarvegur and Skólavördustígur will lead you to some gorgeous little boutiques and charming shops where you’re sure to discover fashion treasures ranging from the ultra-modern and concept -driven to

vintage classics from the golden era! If you prefer the mall experience and those global brands, you can take a trip to Kringlan – home to around 150 shops, restaurants and services under one roof. Shopping hours in Reykjavik can vary however most places are open between the hours of 10am and 6pm during the week with shorter opening hours at the weekend. Remember to reclaim your 15% VAT (value added tax) refund from your purchases.

Reykjavík is the place to be for those with an interest in the world of arts and culture, and is home to the majority of our most prestigious cultural institutions and talented performers and artists. Designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, Reykjavík is also the core of Iceland’s literary heritage where you’ll discover a treasure of literary works and a wealth of talented poets and authors. In recent years, Reykjavík has become well known for its prolific music and performing arts scene – the city is a breeding ground for musical talent and hosts several highly active theatre companies. 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-socute Emilíana Torrini; not forgetting the new sonic force emerging, with some up-and-coming Icelandic artists and bands rising, quicker than cream, to the top of the international charts.

Apart from all those invigorating outdoor activities, where you can indulge in anything from sea-swimming in Nauthólsvík thermal beach to horseback-riding in the red hills of Heidmörk, visitors are also thoroughly encouraged to experience Iceland’s greatest source of well-being by trying out one of our numerous thermal pools and spas - not only an important part of our culture but also a wonderful tonic for the body and mind.

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

ARTS & CULTURE

Whether you’re getting yours with a golf-club in hand or by shredding some fresh white powder in the ski-resort at Bláfjöll we hope that you’ll leave fully satisfied, completely recharged and feeling ON TOP OF THE WORLD!

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

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

FAMILY FRIENDLY REYKJAVIK Families will find plenty of interesting activities in Reykjavík. Whether it’s splashing around in a thermal pool, trying on Viking armour, or viewing some of the largest mammals on Earth 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. Locals business are very accommodating of families with young children; even in the hippest of coffee shops and restaurants you’ll find a high-chairs and play-areas set aside for the kids. Reykjavík has much to offer visitors at affordable prices – sometimes even for free! Below are our top ten recommendations for active families and curious kids to enjoy while visiting Reykjavík.

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

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

»» Watch bubbling hot springs - and roaring waterfalls on a day trip from Reykjavík. »» Revel in a Reykjavík winter - be dazzled by the multi-coloured Christmas lights, visit the Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village, skate on Tjörnin Lake or start a snowball fight.

Looking for something fun to do? The Reykjavik indoor ice skating rink in Laugardalur is open for public every day. Skate and helmet rental for all age groups. The skating rink is located in the heart of the city close to the Laugardalslaug swimming pool and the Reykjavik Zoo & Family Park. See opening hours at skautaholl.is. The Reykjavik ice skating rink â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mulavegur 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 104 Reykjavik

WELCOME CARD

YOUR PASSPORT TO REYKJAVÍK CITY! CONNECT WITH CULTURE! SEE THE SIGHTS! DISCOVER MORE! SPEND LESS! WELCOME TO REYKJAVÍK!

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 590 1550 info@visitreykjavik.is www.visitreykjavik.is www.facebook.com/visitreykjavik Instagram – visitreykjavik Twitter - @visitreykjavik

AVAILABLE FOR 24, 48 OR 72 HOURS

Reykjavík is 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 of all who visit.

In order to enrich your visit further we at VISIT REYKJAVÍK have put together a special WELCOME CARD making it so much easier to you to connect with the extraordinary cultural scene and vibrant city life. Available for up to 24, 48 or 72 hours and offering great value for money, the Welcome Card gives you FREE ADMISSION to all of Reykjavík’s famous thermal pools, a great many museums, galleries and other attractions, with unlimited travel on the Reykjavík buses and the ferry to Viðey Island. The Welcome Card also entitles you to DISCOUNTS at selected shops and restaurants, plus free internet access at the Tourist Information Centre, Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík. We hope that you will have a great time and really enjoy your stay in Reykjavík!

CHILDREN’S WELCOME CARD

Admission to the museums is free for those under 18 years of age; however, there are fees for children (from the age of 6) on city bus services and on the ferry to Viðey Island (from 7). Note that there are also entrance fees for children (6 and over) at the thermal pools, and from 5 years and over at the Animal Zoo and Family Park. In order to accommodate families, we now offer a special children’s Welcome Card, at a significantly reduced fee. Cards are valid for same duration: 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours.

Whether you’re just stopping over or here for a little longer, we hope that you’ll really enjoy your stay and make the most of your time with the Reykjavik Welcome Card!

BUY THE CARD HERE:

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

»» Iceland Travel Assistance ITA – Tourist Information Centre »» What’s On Tourist Information and Booking Centre Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavík »» Icelandic Travel Market Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavík »» Trip.is Laugavegur 54, 101 Reykjavík »» Radisson Hotel Saga, BSÍ Bus Terminal & Tourist Information Centre Aðalstræti 2, 101 Rvik | +354 590 1550 »» Reykjavík City Hostel Sundlaugavegur 34, 104 Reykjavík »» Loft Hostel Bankastræti 7, 101 Reykjavík »» Your Perfect Day Hilton Reykjavík Nordica & Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Natura »» Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina Mýrargata 2, 101 Reykjavík »» Guesthouse Borgartun Borgartún 34, 105 Reykjavík »» 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 Art Museums – Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir & Ásmundasafn »» National Museum of Iceland Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík »» Reykjavík City Museum - The Maritime Museum Grandagarður 8, 101 Reykjavík »» Sterna Tour desk Harpa Music and Conference Hall. »» Around Iceland Laugavegur 18b, 101 Reykjavík »» Grand Hotel Sigtún 38, 105 Reykjavík »» Hostel B47 Barónsstígur 47, 101 Reykjavík »» 10-11 Supermarkets Austurstræti, Barónsstígur & Laugavegur »» Kvosin Supermarket Aðalstræti 6-8, 101 Reykjavík

FREE ADMISSION TO: REYKJAVÍK CITY BUSES 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 Centres and on www.bus.is

REYKJAVÍK CITY THERMAL POOLS www.itr.is Free admission to all 7 thermal pools in Reykjavík: Laugardalslaug Vesturbæjarlaug Árbæjarlaug Grafarvogslaug Sundhöllin Breiðholtslaug Kjalarneslaug.

For opening hours and addresses, please refer to our museum chapter on pages 28-37.

»» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »»

»»

National Museum of Iceland National Art Gallery Reykjavík Art Museum – Hafnarhús Reykjavík Art Museum – Kjarvalsstaðir Reykjavík Art Museum – Ásmundasafn Reykjavik City Museum The Settlement Exhibition Reykjavík City Museum – Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum Reykjavík City Museum - Reykjavík Maritime Museum Reykjavík City Museum – Museum of Photography Reykjavík City Museum – Viðey Island The Ferry to Viðey Island www.elding.is Skarfabakki Pier, 104 Reykjavík. +354 533 5055. NOTE! Schedules differ between seasons. Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park www.mu.is Hafrafell by Engjavegur, 104 Reykjavík. Tel 411 5900. June 1st – August 17th, open daily 10:00 – 18:00. September 1st – May 31st, open daily 10:00 – 17.00. Free internet access At the Tourist Information Centre, Aðalstræti 2.

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

»» »» »» »» »» »» »»

MUSEUMS

WELCOME CARD

GET DISCOUNTS AT:

»» Harpa Music and conference Centre 25% on the guided Harpa Tour Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 528 5000 | www. harpa.is »» Aurora Reykjavík 15% off admission Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík. +354 820 1658 www.aurorareykjavik.is »» Volcano House 20% off cinema tickets and off all coffee drinks Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík +354 555 1900 | www. volcanohouse.is »» Bio Paradis 25% off regular ticket Price Hverfisgata 54, 101 Reykjavík +354 412 7711 | www. bioparadis.is »» Saga Museum 10% off admission Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1517 / 694 3096 | www.sagamuseum.is »» The Icelandic Phallological Museum 25% off admission Laugavegur116, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 6663 | www. phallus.is »» Íshestar Riding Tours 15% off Lava Tour at 2pm Sörlaskeið 26, 220 Hafnarfjörður. +354 555 7000 | www. ishestar.is »» Iceland Excursions 25% off AH10 Greater Area Reykjavik sight seeing Hafnarstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík +354 540 1313 | www. grayline.is »» Special Tours Sea Adventures 10% off tours Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 560 8800 | www. specialtours.is »» Elding 10% off all tours Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 555 3565 | www. elding.is »» Season Tours 10% off Golden Circle Tour Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 863 4592 | www. seasontours.is »» Reykjavík Bike & Segway tours 10% off Classic Reykjavik Bike Tour; Reykjavik Segway Tour & Bike rentals Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 694 8956 | www. icelandbike.is

»» Smárativolí 5% off Time cards and Tivoli cards (Tímakort & Tivolíkort) Smáralind Shopping Centre, Hagasmári 1, 201 Kópavogur. +354 534 1900 | www. smarativoli.is »» The Activity Park in Grafarvogur Minigolf offer, 2 for 1 from Jun – Aug. Gufunes, 112 Reykjavík +354 587 4000 www.skemmtigardur.is »» Húfur sem hlæja – Happy Smiling headwear 20% off all items Skólavörðustígur 18, 101 Reykjavík. +354 552 6466 | hufursemhlaeja.is »» Handknitting Association Buy a handknitted sweater – get Varma socks for free! Skólavörðustígur 19, 101 Reykjavík. +354 552 1890 | www.handknit.is »» Volcano Design 10% off all items Laugavegur 40, 101 Reykjavík +354 588 0100 www.volcanodesign.is »» Hannesarholt 10% off documentary & guided tour of the house, Monday – Friday, June 14th – August 31st. September 1st – May 31st up on booking, +354 511 1904 Grundarstígur 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1904 | www. hannesarholt.is »» Borðstofan Hannesarholti 10% off menu Grundarstígur 10, 101 Reykjavík »» Fish Company 10% off the menu Grófartorg, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 5300 | www. fishcompany.is »» Kopar 10% off the menu Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 567 2700 | www. koparrestaurant.is »» Tapas Húsið 10% off the menu Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 512 8181 | www. tapashusid.is »» Restaurant Reykjavík 10% off the menu Vesturgata 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 3030 www.restaurantreykjavik.is

»» Geysir Bistro 10% off the menu Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík 354 517 4300 | www. geysirbistro.is »» Seafood Grill 10% off the menu Skólavörðustígur 14, 101 Reykjavík. +354 571 1100 | www.sjavargrillid.is »» Ning’s restaurants 10% off the menu Hlíðarsmári, 12, 201 Kópavogur, Suðurlandsbraut 6, 108 Reykjavík & Stórhöfði 17, 110 Reykjavík. +354 588 9899 | www. nings.is »» Höfnin 15% off the menu Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 2300 | www. hofnin.is »» MAR 15% off the menu Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 519 5050 www.marrestaurant.is »» Einar Ben 10% off total bill By Ingólfstorg, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 5090 | www. einarben.is »» Gamla/Old Ísland 10% off the Icelandic Traditional menu Laugavegur 72, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 6131 www.facebook.com/ GamlaOldIsland »» Rossopomodoro 10% off the menu Laugavegur 40a, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 0500 www.rossopomodoro.is »» Lebowski bar 10% off the menu, Happy hour all days from 16:00 – 19:00 Laugavegur 20a, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 2300 | www. lebowski.is »» 10 Dropar Café – Breakfast & Brunch 10% off the menu Laugavegur 27, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 9380 www.facebook.com/ TiuDropar

ICELANDIC DESIGN

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 18

It’s all happening in Reykjavík City - the world’s most northerly capital! Reykjavík City is a hotbed of activity all year round with a remarkable number of annual festivals and seasonal events attracting countless festivalgoers and media attention from around the world. Apart from the city’s superb official events, such as the Winter Lights Festival and Culture Night, there’s also a diversity of critically acclaimed film festivals, design events, fabulous fan-fests and music festivals, celebrating everything from the arrival of summer, to the city’s wealth of fascinating culture. Be it art, music, theatre or sport, there’s always a hip, wholesome and totally awesome event happening in town!

REYKJAVIK WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL 24

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

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

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

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

REYKJAVIK ARTS FESTIVAL

GAY PRIDE This colourful event brings tens of thousands of people into the city centre every year to show solidarity and have fun with the gay community in Reykjavik. People of all genders, friends, relatives, and a fast growing number of tourists, all come together to celebrate and support universal human rights. In 2014 Reykjavik Pride is celebrated for the sixteenth time. Our cosy little pride, originally visited by some fifteen hundred onlookers, has blossomed and evolved into a colourful six day celebration that attracts up to 100 thousand guests from all over the world.

REYKJAVIK - CAPITAL AREA

The Reykjavik Arts Festival is an annual multidisciplinary festival with a special focus on new commissions and the creative intersection of the arts. For two weeks every year it brings together major cultural venues and unconventional spaces throughout the city in exhibitions and performances of contemporary and classical works, presented to the widest possible audience. The Festival is one of Northern Europe’s oldest and promotes Icelandic and international culture in all fields of art, bringing together the best in local and international theatre, dance, music, and visual art.

REYKJAVIK CULTURE NIGHT Reykjavík Culture Night will be held for the nineteenth time on August 23rd 2014. The event, which is both created and enjoyed by city residents, takes place all across Reykjavík with celebrations in city streets and squares, in museums, businesses and even in residential gardens! The event’s slogan “come on in!” is a reference to those good old fashioned customs of hospitality. A permanent fixture in the annual calendar of events in Reykjavík and marks the start of the city’s cultural year, when museums and theatres and other cultural institutions launch their annual programme of events.

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

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

ICELAND AIRWAVES

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

Designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, Reykjavik is the core of Iceland’s literary heritage and home to a treasure of literary works, both medieval and contemporary. It also boasts a wealth of talented poets and authors. You’ll discover an array of museums and galleries open year-round, which vary from displays of national historic treasures and texts to small eclectic galleries exhibiting contemporary work by local artists. Reykjavík is also characterized by an unusually vibrant artistic community and has a number of prestigious museums and art galleries of which the Reykjavík Art Museum is the largest. It’s made up of three distinctive museum spaces:

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

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

on them, and promulgates knowledge of the history and living conditions of the people of Reykjavík from the settlement Age to the present day. Kistuhylur 4, 110 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.minjasafnreykjavikur.is Open: Jun—Aug | Daily 10-17 Sep—May | Guided tours only. Adults (18+) - 1300 ISK Bus no. 5, 6, 12, 19 & 24

Guided tours at 13:00 all year round.

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION While constructions for Hotel Reykjavik Centrum were about to start the remains of a 10th century longhouse were uncovered. Those imaginative Icelanders quickly decided to preserve the ruins and build an underground exhibition around the site focusing on the settlement in Reykjavík. 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).

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

The museum store is also impressive, with clever items made especially for the museum by two local graphic designers. Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6370 | www.reykjavik871.is Open: Daily 10-17 Adults (18+) - 1300 ISK Bus no. 1, 3, 6, 11, 12, 13, & 14

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The viking:info Laugavegur 1 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 1 - 3 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 104 · Akureyri

info@theviking.is www.theviking.is

Akureyri Reykjavík

TAX FREE

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

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

Tryggvagata 15, 101 Reykjavík +354 411-6390 www.photomuseum.is Open: Offices and museum shop Mon-Fri 10-16

Exhibitions Mon-Thu 12-19, Fri 12-18, Sat-Sun 13-17

Free admission.

REYKJAVIK 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 Guided tours of the ship are offered at the following times 11 (during the summer), 13, 14 and 15.

outside in the beautiful harbour. A wonderful place for a fun day out with family or friends! Grandagarður 8, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 9400 www.maritimemuseum.is Open: Jun—Mid-Sep | Daily 10-17 Mid-Sep—May | Daily 11-17 Adults (18+) - 1300 ISK Bus no. 14

GLJÚFRASTEINN – LAXNESS MUSEUM Halldór Laxness was one of Iceland’s most respected authors and was prolific in his writing, producing 62 books over 68 years. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955. Gljúfrasteinn was the home and workplace of Halldór Laxness and his family for more than half a century. In 2004 it was opened to the public as a museum, unchanged from when Laxness lived there.

Gljúfrasteinn, 270 Mosfellsbær +354 586 8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is Open: Jun—Aug | Daily 9-17 Sep—May | Tue-Sun 10-17

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

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

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

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

Visit Iceland’s largest art museum artmuseum.is

Reykjavík Art Museum

HafnarHús

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Open daily / One admission to three museums

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND The National Museum of Iceland is the oldest museum in the country and celebrated its 150th birthday in 2013. At the museum you can explore the permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation Heritage and History in Iceland, which is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the Settlement to the present day. The exhibition is conceived as a journey through time: it begins with the ship, in which medieval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home; it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world. The museum caters to all ages and you can find games, play dress up and explore the museum via interactive

touch screens and audio-guides which complement the exhibitions. Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík Tel. +354 530-2200 www.nationalmuseum.is Open: May—Mid-Sep | Daily 10-17 Mid-Sep—May | Tue-Sun 11-17 Wheelchair Accessible.

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

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

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND The National Gallery of Iceland, established in 1884, is the principal art museum of Iceland. Its art collection consists mainly of works of 19th and 20th century art. In its possession are many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. The National Gallery’s main role is to collect, preserve, research and exhibit Icelandic art and offer education about it. A considerable emphasis is also laid on showing Icelandic art in context with international art. The museum sees it as one of its priorities to educate visitors about exhibitions and single art works, by means of texts, guidance, meetings with artists and a Special guided tours and guidance in foreign languages by agreement.

databank which is accessible through computers in the National Gallery’s education centre. Fríkirkjuvegur 7, 101 Reykjavík +354 515 9600 www.listasafn.is Open: Jun—Aug | Tue-Sun 10-17 Sep—May | Tue-Sun 11-17 Adults (18+) - 1000 ISK Bus no. 14

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

THE CINEMA HOME OF ICELANDIC VOLCANO, NATURE AND CULTURE FILMS The cozy Cinema in the Loft - Ideal for families In The Cinema, upstairs at Old Harbour Village No2, downtown Reykjavík, one can experience nature´s ferocious and devastating powers through the films BIRTH OF AN ISLAND – THE MAKING OF ICELAND, THE ERUPTION! and HEKLA from 1947-2000. Also the beautiful Northern Lights – or Aurora Borealis. The Cinema is in an old, restored fisherman´s workplace, where the smell of salted fish still lingers, but very cozy and comfortable. Also come and relax, while looking at books on Icelandic nature and geology, or our small but nice rock collection. Ideal for families and the films The Eruption and Hekla have just images and music – so language is no problem.

During the summer about 8 different films can be shown. The films are made by Valdimar Leifsson, one of Iceland´s best known nature and documentaries film maker, and The Cinema is run by him and his family. Geirsgata 7b by the Old Harbour, 101 Reykjavík +354 898 6628 www.thecinema.is Films shown daily according to schedule- or by arrangement.

VOLCANO HOUSE If 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. Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík +354 555 1900 www.volcanohouse.is Open: Daily 9-22

HISTORIC AL EX H IBITION • CAFÉ • T HE ATRE • SH O P

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

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

WWW.SAGAMUSE UM . I S

– OTHER MUSEMS – ASÍ ART MUSEUM Freyjugata 41, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 5353 | www.listasafnasi.is Open: Tue-Sun 13-17 AURORA REYKJAVIK Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 780 4500 | www.aurorareykjavik.is Open: Daily 10-22

ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION Bergstaðarstræti 74, 101 Reykjavík +354 515 9600 | www.listasafn.is Open: Mar-Dec | Sun 14-17 Closed Dec and Jan

MUSEUM OF HAFNARFJÖRÐUR Vesturgata 8, 220 Hafnarfjorður +354 585 5780 | www.visithafnarfjordur.is

CULTURE HOUSE Hverfisgata 15, 101 Reykjavík +354 545 4100 | thjodminjasafn.is

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

EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM Eiríksgata, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3797 | www.lej.is Open: Jun—Mid-Sep | Tue-Sun 13-17 Mid-Sep—May | Sat-Sun 13-17 Closed Jan and Feb

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

GERÐUBERG CULTURE CENTRE Gerðuberg 3-5, 111 Reykjavík +354 575 7700 | www.gerduberg.is HAFNARBORG CENTRE OF CULTURE AND FINE ART Strandgata 35, 220 Hafnarfjorður +354 585 5790 | www.hafnarborg.is Open: Fri-Mon, Wed 12-17, Thu-12-21 HANNESARHOLT CULTURAL HOUSE Grundarstíg 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1904 | www.hannesarholt.is KÓPAVOGUR ART MUSEUM GERÐARSAFN Hamraborg 4, 200 Kópavogur +354 570 0440 | www.gerdarsafn.is Open: Tue-Sun 11-17 MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART Garðartorgi 1, 210 Garðabær +354 512 1525 | www.honnunarsafn.is Open: Tue-Sun 12-17

NORDIC HOUSE Sturlugata 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 7030 | www.nordice.is Open: Tue-Sun 12-17 NUMISMATIC MUSEUM Einholt 4, 105 Reykjavík +354 569 9600 | www.cb.is Open: Mon-Fri 13.30-15.30 REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN Sigtún, 105 Reykjavík +354 553 2155 | www.artmuseum.is Open: May—Sep | Daily 10-17 Oct—Apr | Daily 13-17 REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík +354 590 1200 | www.artmuseum.is Open: Fri-Wed 10-17, Thu 10-20 REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM KJARVALSSTAÐIR Flókagata, 105 Reykjavík +354 517 1290 | www.artmuseum.is Open: Daily 10-17 SAGA MUSEUM Grandagarði 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1517 | www.sagamuseum.is Open: Apr—Sep | Daily 10-18 Oct—Mar | Daily 12-17 SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM Laugarnestangi 70, 105 Reykjavík +354 553 2906 | www.lso.is

THE ICELANDIC PHALLOLOGICAL MUSEUM Laugavegur 116, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 6663 | www.phallus.is Open: Daily 11-18 THE LIVING ART MUSEUM Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 4350 | www.nylo.is Open: Tue-Sat 12-17

– GALLERIES – 101 ART GALLERY Hverfisgata 18b, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 6999 | www.101hotel.is

CRAFTS AND DESIGN Aðalstræti 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 7595 | handverkoghonnun.is GALLERY I8 Tryggvagata 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3666 | www.i8.is GALLERY ÁGÚST Baldursgata 12, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 2100 | galleriagust.is GALLERY FOLD Rauðarárstígur 14-16, 105 Reykjavík +354 551 0400 | www.myndlist.is

GALLERY LANA MATUSA ART CERAMCI STUDIO Skólavörðustígur 41, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 5799 | www.svetlanamatusa.com GALLERY ÓFEIGUR Skolavordustigur 5, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 1161 | www.ofeigur.is GALLERY SHANKO SILKI Skólavörðustígur 22c, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 0661 | www.shankosilk.com GALLERY SMIÐAR OG SKART Skólavörðustígur 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 4090 GALLERY STUDIO UMBRA Lindargata 14, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 8889 | www.studioumbra.com GALLERY TEXTILL Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3584 | www.textil.is GALLERY TUKT Pósthússtræti 3-5, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 5500 | www.hitthusid.is SPARK DESIGN SPACE Klapparstíg 33, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 2656 www.sparkdesignspace.com

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

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

GALLERY KOLBRUN S. KJARVAL CERAMIC STUDIO Skólavörðustígur 22, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1197

GALLERY KLING & BANG Hverfisgata 42, 101 Reykjavík +354 696 2209 | this.is/klingogbang GALLERY KOGGA CERAMIC-STUDIO Vesturgata 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 6036 | www.kogga.is

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

LAUGAVEGUR 7 101 REYKJAVÍK TEL. 551 3033

SHOPPING IN REYKJAVIK For a relatively small city, Reykjavik is a shopper’s paradise! There’s literally something for everyone – charming little side-street boutiques, exclusive, luxurious art galleries, beautiful local and international design and any kind of food you could possibly imagine. 38

Classic items to pick up in Iceland include the Icelandic outdoor wear brands, such as Cintamani and 66°N, and of course the Icelandic wooly sweater which is both stylish and extremely warm. The trick is knowing where to go for each thing; the shopping area around Laugavegur and Skólavörðurstígur in the city center is better for more one-of-a-kind, nonchain stores and a greater collection of art stores and unique design. The shopping centers on the other hand,the major ones of which are Kringlan, the original Icelandic Shopping Mall, and Smáralind, which is the largest and most recent, are the place to go for a greater selection of name-brand

franchises, to conveniently get to a lot of different shops, to spend a day with kids or teenagers (they both have supervised children’s play areas) or if the weather is too bad for outdoor shopping. Tax Free Shopping: Please make a note that as a traveller in Iceland, you are not obligated to pay the VAT tax on purchases over 4000 ISK, so make sure to save your receipt (!) to get 24.5% of your money back(!!). You can do this at the airport on your way home, at the Tourist Information on Aðalstræti 2, at Around Iceland on Laugavegur 18b and even at the information desk of the Smáralind of Kringlan shopping centers.

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

SHOPPING AREAS DOWNTOWN 101 Reykjavik

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 Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik 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 from Hlemmur.

READY FOR ICELANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LUNAR LANDSCAPES

Specifications: Swiss Movement, Solid 316L Stainless Steel Watch Case, 660Feet / 200 Meters Water Resistant, Screw Down Crown, Anti RefIective, Scratch Resistant Sapphire Crystal, Luminous Hands and Numbers. Available in ARC-TIC Iceland flagship store at Laugavegur 18b 101 Reykjavik.

www.arc-tic.com - www.facebook.com/ArcticIceland - info@arc-tic.com

REYKJAVIK BY DESIGN Life on this frozen, rugged island in the middle of the ocean has not been easy—it demands a certain level of patience, an iron stomach, and most of all, a deep well of creativity and a knack for finding the humor in a tough situation. Icelandic design reflects these virtues in both its originality and sense of humor. 42

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.

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

Young people are at the forefront of Reykjavík design, with DIY collectives and galleries popping up around the city. Eye-blistering clothing, animalbone 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.

Please stop by our two design stores at Laugavegur shopping street

Icelandic design Nordic Design Kitchen items & giftware

Laugavegur 25 & 32 www.hrim.is

SHEAR GENIUS The sheep in this country far outnumber the people, which is good because Icelanders have a penchant for their ovine friends. Although the lamb chops are delish and the ewe’s milk cheese is divine, it’s these wooly coats that are the prize of Iceland’s flock. The wool of the Icelandic sheep has been used to clothe Icelanders for centuries. And for good reason: it’s great stuff. Warm, waterproof, breathable and nearly indestructible. You’ll see the locals walking around in their lopapeysas, which is the traditional ring-neck sweater. The unique composition of the Icelandic wool consists of two types of fibers: inner fibers are insulating – fine,

soft, retain warmth well. Outer fibers are water-repellent – long, glossy, keep water out of the garment. All Icelanders have one of these heavyhitters in their cold-weather arsenal— most likely knit by their granny. But for those of us who don’t have an Icelandic granny, you’re in luck: There are grannies for hire all around the country, knitting like mad to keep the tourists warm.

FASHIONABLE FISH While fur still holds its own in chilly Reykjavík, if you plan to ride the everchanging tides of fashion, you’ll need to reach for your salmon coat, your perch boots, your wolffish belt and your cod handbag. Icelandic designers have begun exploring uncharted waters by ushering a new material into their designs: fish leather. The material has won popularity because of how it can be sustainably produced. In Iceland the leather is made from fish caught and processed for food.

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

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

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

WINING & DINING IN REYKJAVIK Reykjavík’s restaurant scene is emerging with a unique palate all of its own, embracing the fresh ingredients Iceland offers at home. Icelandic chefs are keen to bring different cultures and cuisines to the local table. 46

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 top-notch 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 people-watching “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.

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

Gourmet Experience - Steaks and Style at Argentina Steakhouse

THE TASTE OF ICELAND 48

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

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

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

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

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

TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC FOOD

can tell your friends at home you did it”. With a shot of Brennivin, an Icelandic Schnapps lovingly nicknamed “Black Death”, you can wash down your meal, along with washing away any memory you might have had of the whole affair.

WINING & DINING

Finally, don’t miss out on the traditional Icelandic food! These dishes, prepared the same way they have for centuries, are steeped in history and... other things. There are some flavours everyone can enjoy such as the smoked lamb, flat bread, and liverwurst and some more unusual delicacies such as blood pudding and dried fish. At the far end of the spectrum you find curiosities of acquired taste such as fermented shark, singed sheep’s head and pickled ram’s testicles. These are otherwise known as “things you only eat so you

Experience real Icelandic cuisine

Let’s be friends!

/laekjarbrekka

vurl.is/i

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

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

73 RESTAURANT Offering a great selection of Icelandic brews and one of the most Epic Burgers this country has ever seen (300gr!), 73, a family-owned and operated restaurant is the place to go for those seeking great food at good prices. Take note that the outdoor seating area is a special treat!

ARGENTÍNA STEAKHOUSE

LE BISTRO

They offer some of the the finest cuisine there is to find in the whole city. Grilling meat and fish of all kinds Argentinian style using wooden coal is what they do better than any other restaurant and frankly, you won‘t believe your own tastebuds

A genuine French bistro in the heart of Reykjavik city center. They describe themselves as “a love story which started enticing Icelanders in 2013, with real French food served on check tablecloths, and everything which makes Le Bistro into a little Paris in the heart of Reykjavik

Laugavegur 73, Reykjavik 555 7373 | 73.is

Barónsstígur 11a, Reykjavik 551-9555 | argentina.is

Laugavegur 12, Reykjavik 551 5979 | lebistro.is

JÓMFRÚIN

MAR - SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

CAFÉ PARÍS

An open-sandwich restaurant in the Danish tradition offering authentic Danish smørrebrød along with a selection of hot dishes. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city centre and seats 80 guests. It is a popular lunch venue, especially with people from the business sector. Lækjargata 4, Reykjavik 551 0100 | jomfruin.is

A restaurant in prime location in Reykjavík‘s old harbour. The menu is inspired by South-American and southern-European cuisine and the restaurant designed to deliver fresh and uplifting dining experience, unique to the harbour area.

Austurstræti 14, Reykjavik 551 1020 | cafeparis.is

Geirsgata 9, Reykjavik 519 5050 | marrestaurant.is

KOPAR

GLÓ

A restaurant by the old harbour in Reykjavik which has an emphasis on adventure and experience in a brasserie setting. Their menu is composed of various locally sourced ingredients.

Iceland’s hottest organic restaurant, Gló operates from three distinct locations in the capital area. The menu consists of vegetarian- and raw food courses, meat dishes, soups and salads. The courses are somewhat modest as they are simple, filling and not flooded with too much spice or ingredients.

Geirsgata 3, Reykjavik 567 2700 | koparrestaurant.is

One of Reykjavik city’s most beloved restaurants and cafes, offering great food from morning to night. Fantastic outdoor seating in the summertime, great selection of coffee and coctails

Engjateigur 19, Reykjavik 553 1111 | glo.is

AUSTURINDÍAFJELAGIÐ The spices used to season the food at Austur-Indiafjelagid are imported directly from India and blended on the spot by their team of highly experienced chefs. The Tandoori dishes on the menu must be mentioned, as the chefs have truly mastered the art of Tandoori grilling. Hverfisgata 56, Reykjavik 552 1630 | austurindia.is

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

LEBOWSKI BAR

SNAPS

THE ICELANDIC BAR

The comedy film The Big Lebowski is not only a film, it has become a lifestyle. With the emergence of the Lebowski Bar in Reykjavik, everyone can now be a part of The Dude‘s peculiar world. The Lebowski bar is everything you want it to be, a bowling themed burger joint, restaurant and bar.

A classic french bistro using local Icelandic ingredients. The location could not be better. Snaps is literally a few steps away from downtown Reykjavik, close to the National Theatre, The National Gallery of Iceland and the two main shopping streets of Reykjavik”

Quite fittingly named, The Icelandic Bar aims to preserve the essence of being Icelandic, by combining the historical and cultural heritage of the nation. An innovative menu and a lively atmosphere makes the Icelandic Bar a great destination in downtown Reykjavik.

Laugavegur 20a, Reykjavik 552-2300 | lebowski.is

HAMBORGARAFABRIKKAN

Renowned for their square breads and burgers, the Hamburger Factory is one of Iceland’s favourite burger places! Located across the street from historical house, Höfði, this is a very family friendly and fun place. Höfðatún 2, Reykjavik 575 7575 | fabrikkan.is

Óðinstorg, Reykjavik 511-6677 | snapsbistro.is

UNO

THE LOBSTER HOUSE

A relatively new and modern Italian restaurant in downtown Reykjavik, where original Italian culinary customs and Icelandic ingredients come together to form a delightful treat.

One of Reykjavík’s oldest and most respected restaurants, in a historic house in the heart of the city, the Lobster House promises an elegant and luxurious meal, letting no one down. As the name implies – they specialize in lobster dishes.

Hafnarstraeti 1-3, Reykjavik 561 1313

LAUNDROMAT CAFE

THE STEAK HOUSE

A family oriented and casual restaurant where you can take your family out for a meals, go out for a drink with your friends or grab lunch while surfing the web by yourself.

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

Austurstræti 9, Reykjavik 587 7575 | thelaundromatcafe.com

Ingólfsstræti 1, Reykajvik 517 6767 | islenskibarinn.is

Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavik 561-1111 | steik.is

Amtmannastígur 1, Reykjavik 561 3303 | humarhusid.is

KJALLARINN KITCHEN BAR The menu is split up by the two main methods of cooking, a coal oven and a French planche. Master chef Eyjólfur Gestur serves up exciting feasts from both sea and land as well as great parings of food and cocktails. Aðalstræti 2, Reykjavik 517 7373

Hugsa Hugsasér! sér!

We just love it.

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

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Enjoy Hugsa Hugsasér! sér!

All your favorites

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

19.3.2013 1

Every day from 18:00

Hugsa sĂŠr!

â&#x20AC;Ś or take a view at our Menu with a varity of Icelandic delicacies

ROSSOPOMODORO

DURUM

AALTO BISTRO

A glimpse of life in Napoli,the look, feel and atmosphere of Rossopomodoro, as well as the menu, is a testament of that. Specializing in Italian dishes, the pizzas come especially recommended. Rossopomodoro is very centrally located on Laugavegur so stop by for a bite!

Opened in 2011, Durum has been very well received. The emphasis of the place is simple; great tashing dishes that don’t take too much out of your wallet. Durum is a small and comfortable restaurant, located in the heart of downtown Reykjavik.

A unique restaurant and café, run by the award-winning chef, Sveinn Kjartansson. AALTO puts an emphasis on Scandinavian food, inspired by European cuisine. Located in the Nordic House, designed by the acclaimed Finnish architect, Alvar Aalto, this bistro is a hidden gem.

Laugavegur 40a, Reykjavík 561 0500 | rossopomodoro.is

Laugavegur 42, Reykjavik 445 7000 | durum.is

The Nordic House Sturlugata 5, 101 Reykjavík 551 0200 | aalto.is

WINING & DINING

BORÐSTOFAN

LÆKJARBREKKA

THE SEAFOOD GRILL

This secret lunch heaven just opened, and locals already love it. The chef is renowned for a reason, as he offers good pricing and great food, with a special emphasis on the must-try cakes and pastry. In a 100 year old house in the Reykjavik centre, Borðstofan will make you feel at home.

A renowned Icelandic restaurant located in a house in central Reykjavik that is one of the oldest houses in the city. It has a rich and interesting history. Laekjarbrekka is a classy and elegant restaurant in every aspect, refined and well respected throughout the years.

Without a doubt one of the most popular restaurants of Iceland, the Seafood Grill offers the very best of Icelandic seafood. The menus are varied and original and the food is always of the highest quality.

Hannesarholt, Grundarstígur 10, Reykjavik 511-1904 | bordstofan.is

Bankastræti 2, Reykjavik 551 4430 | laekjarbrekka.is

Skólavörðustígur 14, Reykjavik 571 1100 | sjavargrillid.is

KOL

FISH COMPANY

A centrally located and affordable restaurant that boasts an extensive international menu with an emphasis on Tex-Mex, Italian, Indian and many light meal options. During the weekend Vegamót transforms into a bar with refreshing cocktails, a wide selection of beers and popular DJ’s.

Kol describes itself as a “casual fine dining restaurant with a big bar.” The name of the restaurant comes from the unique charcoal oven which lends a very special, rustic flavour to the dishes.

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

Vegamótastígur 4, Reykjavik 511-3040 | vegamot.is

Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavik 552-5300 | fiskfelagid.is

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

VEGAMÓT BISTRO

Skólavörðustígur 40, Reykjavik 517 7474 | kolrestaurant.is

– RESTAURANTS – 101 RESTAURANT AND BAR Hverfisgata 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 580 0101 | www.101hotel.is 1919 RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Pósthússtræti 2,101 Reykjavík +354 599 1050 | www.radissonblu.com/1919hotelreykjavik/dining ASÍA Laugavegur 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 6210 | www.asia.is AUSTURLANDAHRAÐLESTIN Lækjargata 8, Reykjavik 578-3838 | www.hradlestin.is BAMBUS RESTAURANT Borgartún 16, 105 Reykjavík +354 517 0123 | www.bambusrestaurant.is BAN THAI Laugavegur 130, 105 Reykjavík +354 552 2444 BAST Hverfisgata 20, Reykjavik 519-7579

BERGSSON MATHÚS Templarasund 3, 101 Reykjavík +354 571 1822 | www.bergsson.is BORG RESTAURANT Pósthússtræti 9-11, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 2020 | www.borgrestaurant.is BRASSERIE ASKUR Sigtún 38, 105 Reykjavík +354 514 8080 | www.grand.is/Islenska/ Grand-veitingastadur-og-bar/ BRASSERIE GRAND Suðurlandsbraut 4, 108 Reykjavík +354 553 9700 | www.askur.is CARUSO Þingholtsstræti 1, Reykjavik 562-7335 | www.caruso.is DELI Bankastræti 14, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 6000 | www.deli.is DILL RESTAURANT Hverfisgata 12, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 1522 | www.dillrestaurant.is EINAR BEN RESTAURANT Veltusund 1, Ingólfstorg square, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 5090 | www.einarben.is FISH MARKET Aðalstræti 12, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 8877 | www.fishmarket.is

FJALAKÖTTURINN Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 514 6000 | www.fjalakotturinn.is FJÖRUKRÁIN - VIKING VILLAGE Strandgata 55, 220 Hafnarfjordur +354 565 1213 | www.fjorukrain.is FORRETTABARINN Nýlendugata 14, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 1800 | www.forrettabarinn.is FRIÐRIK V Laugavegur 60, 101 Reykjavík +354 461 5775 | www.fridrikv.is GAMLA VÍNHÚSIÐ Klapparstígur 38, 101 Reykjavík +354 565 1130 | www.gamlavinhusid.is GANDHI Pósthússtræti 17, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1691 | www.gandhi.is GARÐURINN Klapparstígur 37, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 2345 GEYSIR BISTRO AND BAR Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 4300 | www.geysirbistrobar.is GRILL MARKET Lækjargata 21, 101 Reykjavík +354 571 7777 | www.grillmarkadurinn.is GRILL RADISSON BLU SAGA HOTEL By Hagatorg, 107 Reykjavík +354 525 9960 | www.grillid.is GRILLHÚSIÐ Tryggvagata 20, 101 Reykjavík +354 5623456 | www.grillhusid.is

EAT LIKE A VIKING or have a burger The bus terminal café/bistro is called Fljótt & Gott. Fljótt & Gott serves affordable local food, as close to Icelandic home cooking as it gets, which has been the BSI food service trademark for almost 50 years. Open from 6:00am to 11:00pm every day, also serving burgers, steak, fish and chips, sandwiches and other conventional grill dishes along with wine, beer or sodas.

SHEEPSHEAD ONLY 1.990 kr. saladbar and soda included

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

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

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

GRÆNN KOSTUR Skólavörðustígur 8b, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 2028 | www.graennkostur.is

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

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

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

HAPP JUICE & MORE Austurstræti 22, 101 Reykjavík +354 4143065 | www.happ.is

LA LUNA Rauðarárstígur 37, 105 Reykjavík +354 577 3838 | www.laluna.is

HARBOUR LOFT Lækjartorg, 101 Reykjavík www.nemaforum.is

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

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

LIFANDI MARKAÐUR Borgartún 24, Reykjavik 585-8700 | www.lifandimarkadur.is

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

MADONNA Rauðarárstígur 27, 105 Reykjavík +354 445 9500 | www.madonna.is

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

MAÐUR LIFANDI Borgartún 24, 105 Reykjavík +354 585 8700 | www.madurlifandi.is

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

MUNNHARPAN Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 555 5555 | www.munnharpan.is

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

NAREE THAI RESTAURANT Frakkastígur 12, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 9944 | www.nareethai.is

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

NÚÐLUHÚSIÐ Laugavegur 59, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 2400 | www.nudluhusid.is

ICELANDIC TAPAS HOUSE Ægisgarður 2, by the old Harbour, Reykjavik 512-8181 | www.tapashusid.is

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

IÐNÓ THEATRE Vonarstræti 3, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 9700 | www.idno.is ÍTALÍA Laugarvegur 11, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 4630 | www.italia.is

OSUSHI THE TRAIN Pósthússtræti 13, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 0562 | www.osushi.is PANORAMA Ingólfsstræti 1, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 5800

KITCHEN RESTAURANT Laugavegur 60a, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 7788 | www.kitchen-eldhus.is

PARK INN ÍSLAND Ármúli 9, 108 Reykjavík +354 595 7000 | www.parkinn.com/ hotel-reykjavik/restaurants

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

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

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

PISA RISTORANTE Laekjargata 6b, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 7200 | www.pisa.is

ALL IN ONE

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The concept of the restaurant is "casual fun dining" and we prepare what we would call a simple honest, "feel good", comfort food, where we take on the classics with a modern twist. SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 40 · 101 REYKJAVÍK · TEL.+354 517 7474 · KOLRESTAURANT.IS

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

TAPASHÚSIÐ Ægisgarður 2 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 512 8181 | www.tapashusid.is

RAUÐARÁ RESTAURANT Rauðarárstígur 37, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 6766 | www.raudara.is

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

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

THORVALDSEN BAR Austurstraeti 8, 101 Reykjavik +354 511 1413 | www.thorvaldsen.is

REYKJAVIK FISH AND CHIPS Tryggvagata 8, 101 Reykjavik

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

SAFFRAN Álfheimar 74 2, 104 Reykjavík +354 578 7874 | www.saffran.is SAKEBARINN Laugavegur 2 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 777 3311 | www.sakebarinn.is

SCANDINAVIAN SMORREBROD & BRASSERIE Laugavegur 22b 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 4888 | www.scandinavian.is SHALIMAR Austurstraeti 4 & Strandgötu 11 Hf. 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 0292 | www.shalimar.is SJÁVARBARINN Grandagardur 9 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 3131 | www.sjavarbarinn.is SLIPP BAR Mýrargata 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 560 8000 | www.slippbarinn.is

VÍKINGAKRÁIN Hafnarstræti 1-3 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 861 7712 | www.vikingakrain.is VOX RESTAURANT Sudurlandsbraut 2, 105 Reykjavík +354 444 5050 | voxrestaurant.com ÞRÍR FRAKKAR Baldursgata 14 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 3939 | www.3frakkar.com

– FAST FOOD – AMERICAN STYLE Tryggvagata 26, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 2700 | www.americanstyle.is

ELDSMIÐJAN Bragagata 38a, Laugavegur 81 and Suðurlandsbraut 12m 101 Reykjavík +354 562 3838 | www.eldsmidjan.is

SUSHI SMIÐJAN Geirsgata 3 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 3366 | www.sushismidjan.is

FELLINI Fossaleyni 1, 112 Reykjavík +3545115300 | www.fellini.is

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

FLJÓTT OG GOTT BSI Bus Terminal Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 522 1288 | www.fljottoggott.is

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

FRIDAY’S Smáralind Shopping Centre, 200 Kópavogur +354 570 4400 | www.fridays.is GAMLA SMIÐJAN Laekjargata 8, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 8555 | www.gamlasmidjan.is HRÓI HÖTTUR Hringbraut 119, 107 Reykjavík +354 5629292 | www.hroi.is

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TABASCO’S MEXICAN BAR - GRILL Hafnarstræti 1-3 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1980 | www.tabascos.is

DOMINOS Skúlagata 26, 108 Reykjavik +354 581 2345 | www.dominos.is

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

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

WINING & DINING

SATT Nauthólsvegur 52 +354 444 4050 | www.sattrestaurant.com

VIÐ TJÖRNINA Templarasund 3 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 8666 | www.vidtjornina.is

NINGS Sudurlandsbraut 6 & Hlídasmári 12 105 Reykjavík & 201 Kópavogur +354 588 9899 | www.nings.is NOODLE STATION Skólavörðustígur 21a, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3199 NÚÐLUSKÁLIN Skólavörðustígur 8, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 0202 | www.nudluskalin.is PIZZA HUT Hagasmári 1, 201 Kópavogur +354 533 2000 | www.pizzahut.is PIZZA KING Hafnarstræti 18, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 7474 | www.pizzaking.is PRIMO RISTORANTE Grensásvegur 10, 108 Reykjavik +354 519 5999 | www.primo.is RED CHILI Laugavegur 176, 101 Reykjavík +354 563 6000 | www.redchili.is RIKKI CHAN Kringlan Shopping Centre, 103 Reykjavík +354 568 4170

RIZZO PIZZA Grensásvegur 10, 108 Reykjavík +354 577 7000 | www.rizzo.is ROADHOUSE Snorrabraut 56, 101 Reykjavík +354 571 4200 | www.roadhouse.is SERRANÓ N1 Hringbraut, 105 Reykjavik +354 552 7700 | www.serrano.is

– CAFÉS – 10 DROPAR Laugavegur 27, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 9380 | www.tiudropar.is B5 Bankastraeti 5, 101 Reykjavik +354 552 9600 | www.b5.is BABALÚ Skólavörðustígur 22a, 101 Reykjavík +354 555 8845 | www.babalu.is BERNHOFTSBAKARÍ Bergstaðarstræti 13, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3083 | www.bernhoftsbakari.is BÍÓ PARADÍS Hverfisgata 54, 101 Reykjavík +354 412 7711 | www.bioparadis.is BJÖRNSBAKARÍ - HRINGBRAUT Hringbraut 35, 101 Reykjavík

+354 551 1532 | www.bjornsbakari.is C IS FOR COOKIE Týsgata 8, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 5914 CAFÉ FLÓRA Botanical Gardens, 104 Reykjavík +354 553 8872 | www.cafeflora.is CAFÉ HAITI Geirsgata 7b, 101 Reykjavík +354 588 8484 | www.cafehaiti.is CAFÉ KONDITORI COPENHAGEN Grensásvegur 26, 108 Reykjavík +354 577 1550 CAFÉ LOKI Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 466 2828 CAFÉ MÍLANÓ Faxafen 11, 108 Reykjavík +354 588 8860 | www.cafemilano.is CAFÉ RÓMA Rauðarárstígur 8, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 0020 CAFÉ SÓLON Bankastræti 7a, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 3232 | www.solon.is ESJUSTOFA Við Mógilsá, 116 Reykjavík +354 565 3200 | www.sejustofa.is GRANDAKAFFI Grandagarður 101, 101 Reykjavík +354 5529094 GRÁI KÖTTURINN Hverfisgata 16a, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 1544 HANNESARHOLT CULTURAL HOUSE Grundarstíg 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1904 | www.hannesarholt.is HARBOUR LOFT Lækjartorg, 101 Reykjavík www.nemaforum.is

IDA ZIMSEN Vesturgata 2a, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 5004

THE MOSFELLSBAKARÍ BAKERY Háholti 13, 270 Mosfellsbaer www.mosbak.is

KAFFI VAGNINN Grandagarður 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 5932

TÍU DROPAR Laugavegur 27, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 9380 | www.tiudropar.is

KAFFIFÉLAGIÐ Skólavörðustígur 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 520 8420 | ww.kaffifelagid.is

UPPSALIR BAR AND CAFÉ Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 514 6000

KAFFISMIÐJA ÍSLANDS Kárastígur 1, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 5535 | www.kaffismidja.is

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

KAFFITÁR 101 Reykjavík +354 551 4540 | www.kaffitar.is

ÖNDIN Tjarnargata 11, 101 Reykjavík +354 696 6765

KOFI TÓMASAR FRÆNDA Laugavegur 2, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 1855 KORNIÐ BAKERY Lækjargata 4, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 1803 | www.kornid.is MOKKA KAFFI Skólavörðustígur 3a, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 1174 | www.mokka.is MUNNHARPAN Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 555 5555 | www.munnharpan.is MÚLAKAFFI Hallarmúli, 108 Reykjavík +354 553 7737 | www.mulakaffi.is NÝLENDUVÖRUVERSLUN HEMMA OG VALDA Laugavegur 21, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 6464 PRIKIÐ Bankastraeti 12, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 2866 | www.prikid.is SANDHOLT BAKERY Laugavegur 36, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 3524 | www.sandholt.is

SÆMUNDUR Í SPARIFÖTUNUM Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 6060 | www.kexhostel.is TE & KAFFI Laugavegur 27, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 6260 | www.teogkaffi.is

101 RESTAURANT AND BAR Hverfisgata 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 580 0101 | www.101hotel.is AUSTUR Austurstræti 7, 101 Reykjavík +354 568 1907 BAR 11 Hverfisgata 18, 101 Reykjavík +354 690 6021

BJARNI FEL BAR Austurstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 2240 | www.bjarnifel.is BOSTON REYKJAVIK Laugavegur 28b, 101 Reykjavík +354 517 7816 | www.facebook.com/boston.reykjavik CAFÉ AMSTERDAM Hafnastræti 5, 101 Reykjavík CAFÉ ROSENBERG Klapparstígur 25-27, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 2442 CAFÉ SÓLON Bankastræti 7a, 101 Reykjavík +354 562 3232 | www.solon.is CELTIC CROSS Hverfisgata 26, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 3240 | www.celticcross.is DEN DANSKE KRO Ingólfsstræti 3, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 0070 | www.danski.is DILLON Laugavegur 30, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 2400 | www.dillon.is

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STOFAN CAFÉ Aðalstræti 7, 101 Reykjavík +354 567 1881

– NIGHTLIFE – 10 DROPAR Laugavegur 27, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 9380 | www.tiudropar.is

WINING & DINING

KAFFIVAGNINN Grandagarður 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 5932

HARBOUR LOFT Lækjartorg, 101 Reykjavík www.nemaforum.is HRESSINGARSKÁLINN Austurstraeti 20, 101 Reykjavik +354 561 2240 | www.hresso.is NÝLENDUVÖRUVERSLUN HEMMA OG VALDA Laugavegur 21, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 6464 KAFFIBARINN Bergstaðarstaeti 1, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 1588 KOFI TÓMASAR FRÆNDA Laugavegur 2, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 1855 KRINGLUKRÁIN Kringlan Shopping Centre, 103 Reykjavík +354 568 0878 | www.kringlukrain.is

NÆSTI BAR Ingolfsstraeti 1a, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 7776 PARK INN ÍSLAND Ármúli 9, 108 Reykjavík +354 595 7000 | www.parkinn.com/ hotel-reykjavik/restaurants

PRIKIÐ Bankastraeti 12, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 2866 | www.prikid.is SLIPP BAR Mýrargata 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 560 8000 | www.slippbarinn.is

SÆMUNDUR Í SPARIFÖTUNUM Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 6060 | www.kexhostel.is THE DUBLINER Hafnarstræti 4, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 3232 | www.dubliner.is THORVALDSEN BAR Austurstraeti 8, 101 Reykjavik +354 511 1413 | www.thorvaldsen.is VEGAMÓT Vegamotastigur 4, 101 Reykjavik +354 511 3040 | www.vegamot.is VÍNBARINN Kirkjutorg 4, 101 Reykjavik +354 552 4120 ÖLSTOFAN Vegamotastigur 4, 101 Reykjavik +354 552 4687

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LAUNDROMAT CAFÉ Austurstræti 9, 101 Reykjavík +354 587 7555 | thelaundromatcafe.com

PLAYERS Bæjarlind 4, 200 Kopavogur

WINING & DINING

FJÖRUKRÁIN - VIKING VILLAGE Strandgata 55, 220 Hafnarfjordur +354 565 1213 | www.fjorukrain.is

THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK AND NEIGHBOURING TOWNS There is absolutely no shortage of things to do in Reykjavik – there is a plethora of things to do and see within day-trip distance in the countryside around the city, and a multitude of places of interest within the city as well. 66

This chapter covers the major highlights in two sections: day tours from Reykjavik on the one hand and places of interest within the cities on the other. Day tours include classics like the Golden Circle Tour, the viewing the South Coast and the exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula, and places of interest include, for instance Hallgrímskirkja church and the Nauthólsvík geothermal beach. For more information on these activities and other things to do in and around the city, please consult www.visitreykjavik.is or consult with some of the well informed and helpful people at the Reykjavik Tourist Information Center on Aðalstræti 2, the What’s On Information Center on Laugavegur 4, ITM on Bankastræti 2 or Trip at Laugavegur 54, or any of the other numerous information providers in Reykjavik.

Check out the numerous interesting events in Reykjavik on page 110.

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THE GOLDEN CIRCLE 68

If you ask anyone what the number one tourist attraction in Iceland is, the answer is clear: The Golden Circle. It is without a doubt the best known and best publicised day tour in the country with the best access and the highest number of organised seats per day. For instance, Reykjavik Excursions has this tour scheduled every day of the week at 9am, all year round, with guidance in English, German, French and Scandinavian. The question is: Why? The Golden Circle is a 300 km loop that usually opens and closes in Reykjavik. It covers three main locations: Þingvellir National Park, the waterfall Gullfoss and the erupting geyser Strokkur in Haukadalur.

ÞINGVELLIR Þingvellir National Park is a historical and geological wonder, located in fields of the beautiful vegetation north of Þingvallavatn, the largest lake in Iceland. There you will find

the famous rift Almannagjá where the Eurasian and American tectonic plates are pulling apart by a few centimetres each year. Þingvellir was the founding place of Iceland’s Parliament in 930 and the venue for annual parliament meetings until 1798. Þingvellir is also the place where in 999 or 1000 it was decided that Iceland should be a Christian nation and where Iceland declared its independence from Denmark in 1944. There is nothing more Icelandic than Þingvellir. Even the least patriotic Icelander will experience feelings of loyalty and commitment upon walking through there. It is sacred and it is who we are.

GULLFOSS Then we have the two attractions in Biskupstungur, a waterfall and a geyser. The waterfall Gullfoss (Icelandic for golden waterfall) is in the river Hvítá and is 32 metres high where it plunges into the 70 metre deep canyon surrounding it. In the early 20th century there were many who

felt strongly that Gullfoss should be harnessed for production of electricity. This plan was abandoned when the daughter of the main advocate threatened to throw herself in the waterfall. The State of Iceland acquired the waterfall in 1940 and it has been on the state preservation list since 1979. Nobody ever speaks with solemnity of harnessing it anymore, it is considered priceless in its natural state. This has even developed into a phrase within certain circles in the country so that when you suggest something inanely stupid you get replied to with the words: And then what? Sell Gullfoss?

GEYSIR

that I have found myself making from time to time in pure irritation over the popularity of this particular waterfall over all the others.

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But I’ve been thinking and I have a theory: When my parents were kids, people used to go for a drive on Sundays. Sometimes just within the city limits but on nice summer days the Sunday-drive concept was taken to the next level. Is it possible that this is when the Golden Circle came to be? The trip would take the entire day and the roads were nothing like what they are now but all the same. People would make a packed lunch, eat it on Þingvellir, go to Geysir for afternoon coffee (where there has been coffee for sale since 1928!) and be back home in Reykjavik by dinner time. And now that I think about it, that is why the Golden Circle is so popular. Because in the old days it was OUR main attraction and when the tourists started pouring in, showing interest and asking where to go we naturally told them, without even a moment’s hesitation, to go where we have been going for decades. So the Golden Circle being what it is really just says one thing about Icelanders; We are a “mi casa su casa” sort of folk and we want you to enjoy the same things we do. So I welcome you, no implore you, to go see the Golden Circle if it’s the only trip you make out of town while you’re here.

THINGS TO DO

Haukadalur valley, where both Gullfoss and the geyser Strokkur are located, is a very active geothermal area. In addition to Strokkur and his brother Geysir, Haukadalur is the home of a multitude of mud pools, fumaroles and algal deposits. Strokkur erupts once every 4-8 minutes and reaches a height of 15-20 m, sometimes it goes as high as 40 m up in the air. It is spectacular, scary and very Icelandic. But then again, so are many, many, many other locations in Iceland. We have geothermal areas and awesome waterfalls all over the place. So why is this 300 km loop such a phenomenon when it comes to tourism? Ask anybody and they will tell you that if you only have one day in Iceland, spend it on the Golden Circle. Why? It has been argued that any wonder of nature that can me fitted into a day tour from Reykjavik, has nice roads and shops and catering at the other end would become an attraction. The argument is basically that it is simply combination of these factors that has made the Golden Circle what it is. I must admit that this is an argument

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RELAX AT

the Blue Lagoon

There is no better way to start or end your Iceland adventure than by bathing in the famous Blue Lagoon. You can either board the bus at BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavík or at Reykjavík Intl. Airport (KEF).

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After having enjoyed everything that the wonderful Blue Lagoon has to offer, you can either return back to Reykjavík or be dropped off at Reykjavík Intl. Airport (KEF). For our very flexible schedule please refer to our brochures or check out our website www.re.is

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THE BEAUTIFUL SOUTH COAST

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

The South Coast of Iceland is one of the most popular places for a sightseeing day tour from Reykjavík. It offers an incredibly large variety of natural phenomena which are unusual or unique to a foreign eye. Driving from Reykjavík, you will travel over the Hellisheiði highlands, with the option of stopping at the Hellisheiði power plant and geothermal energy exhibition, where you can tour the plant and learn about this strange source of energy. From the heath you will travel down into the valley around Hveragerði, a town built on a geothermal hot spot, so you will see columns of steam rising up here and there in the hills around and even in the town itself, and there’s even a restaurant there called Kjöt & Kúnst there which cooks food with the steam from the ground(!).

Moving forward, you’ll drive past amazing mountains and valleys along the coastline until you get to the mystical, magical Seljalandsfoss waterfall which falls in the mouth of a cave so that you can actually walk the whole way around it(!) and on a sunny day, you’re likely to see a full rainbow in the spray emanating from its base. After this you will come to the Iceland Erupts exhibition, a memorial to the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull which halted all air transport in Europe for a while. This is followed by Skógafoss, an even larger, more powerful waterfall, and right by that is the tiny community of Skógar, which has a fascinating local museum and a couple of hotels. This is also where the mountain trail of

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.

GLACIER HIKING

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

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

THINGS TO DO

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

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REYKJANES

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

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

From here, you might head east to Strandakirkja church, which according to legend was built by a sailor who stranded just off the coast but was rescued by an angel on the promise he would build a church where he washed ashore. After this, travelling west along the peninsula and passing through Grindavík, you can stop by the Gunnuhver fumarole, where legend has it the murderous ghost Gunna was lured by a priest with a ball of yarn and still resides. In the same area you can visit Reykjanesviti lighthouse and walk along the dramatic sheer rock coastline, with a view over the unique island Eldey. Traveling north from here, stop by the Bridge Between the Continents before passing through Keflavík on your way to relax in the Blue Lagoon spa on your way back to the city.

THE BLUE LAGOON Soak in 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

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.

THINGS TO DO

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

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Day Tours Golden Circle Whale Watching

ACTIVITIES FROM REYKJAVIK There are of course plenty of things to do in and around Reykjavik in terms of day tours and activities. This is just a small sample of the menu – but it should get you started!

HORSEBACK RIDING 76

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.

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 midMay to mid-August.

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 roadrage 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.

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

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?

LANDMANNALAUGAR IN THE HIGHLANDS

THINGS TO DO

MOUNT ESJA REYKJAVÍK’S MOUNTAIN

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.

RIVER RAFTING

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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). Pick-up 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-

LAVA AND CRATERS

Mount Eyjafjallajökull glacier, (say it with me: EYE-a-fyat-LA-JO-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!

SNORKELING IN SILFRA

For those adventure seeking visitors that want to explore parts of Iceland normally hidden from the naked eye, but are not experienced divers, no need to worry. The fissure Silfra is not only a world class diving location but ideal for 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.

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.

WHALE WATCHING AND OTHER WILDLIFE ADVENTURES FROM REYKJAVIK

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DINNER CRUISE

A DAY IN REYKJAVIK FOR 10 EUROS OR LESS It‘s your last day in Reykjavik and you‘ve just woken up in your hotel. You’ve had an excellent trip so far and you‘re kind of hung over after the excellent time you had last night at the bars downtown. You go down to the cafeteria and have some breakfast. 80

Now how should you spend your last day? You‘ve already spent most your cash on tours and exploring and you just want to have a nice and easy last day where you can experience some of the local culture before you leave. This is what you do.

THE ULTIMATE HANGOVER CURE About a 25 minute walk from the city center is the geothermal beach in Nauthólsvík. You pack your speedos and you’re on your way towards Perlan (“The Pearl”), the big glass dome that looms over Reykjavík. You’re going for a swim in the ocean.

A 360° VIEW OF THE CITY After your refreshing swim in the ocean you take a casual stroll up to Perlan. This is a dome built on 6 hot water silos where you can find a fancy revolving restaurant, a exhibition on the Icelandic Sagas, some great ice cream and soon Iceland’s museum of natural history. Go up to the 4th floor and enter the balcony. You will be able to walk the whole circle, have a nice view of the domestic airport and if the visibility is good you can see all the way to Snæfellsjökull glacier, the entrance to the center of the Earth, according to Jules Verne.

“Ocean swimming” in Iceland is something that has grown in popularity in the past few years. Some people do it all year round, regardless of the weather. Now don’t get me wrong, no matter what the temperature is outside the water is going to be freaking cold! But it’s one of the most refreshing things you can do.

I recommend a scoop of ice cream to go with the view. A scoop costs around €2.5 so you still have plenty for your day. And don’t mind the weather either; Icelanders eat ice cream all year round and so will you once you get the taste of it.

After a short swim you can warm up in the big hot tub outside the changing rooms. The facilities are free to use and you’re ready for the rest of your day.

A FORTRESS IN THE OLD TOWN

Money spent: €0

Money spent: 2.5€

After the spectacular view and a scoop of ice cream you head back to town. You walk the same way you came but turn to walk up the

Money spent: €5.5

“I’LL HAVE A CLINTON, PLEASE”

Money spent: €7

THE BEST WAY TO FINISH THE DAY? I bet you’ve had an eventful day so far, but what do you have left to do? Why I think it’s time for happy hour! Many bars in Reykjavik have happy hour or hours. But the best place to visit for a cold beer is Micro Bar. It’s a fantastic little place in Austurstræti which only serves beer from microbreweries. On tap you can taste beers like Kaldi, Skjálfti and Gæðingur. It’s definitely a bar you don’t want to miss!

Money spent: €10 You’ve spent a whole day in Reykjavík and what a day it’s been! You’ve been swimming in the ocean, taken in the view, explored the culture and history and you’ve tasted some of the local food and drinks. You’ve explored the city and experienced all the unique little things that are different every day. Now you go back to your hotel and pack your bag. You’re ready to leave Iceland, but you also can’t wait to come back!

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Oh boy, you must be getting hungry about now. What better way to sooth some of that hunger than enjoying the same meal President Bill Clinton did while he visited Reykjavík. Walk from the museum down the beautiful street Skólavörðustígur and all the way down town. There you will find Iceland’s most popular restaurant for the past 70 years: The hotdog stand Bæjarins Beztu. You’ll probably have to wait in line for a little bit but it’s

worth the wait. While Clinton did have a hotdog with only mustard, the traditional local way is to have “eina með öllu”. That literally translates to “one with everything” (mustard, ketchup, remoulade, raw onions and fried onions). But to each his own.

THINGS TO DO

hill of Skólavörðuholt. There you will find one of Iceland’s most famous churches: Hallgrímskirkja. For now it’s not the church that we’re interested in, but a gray building that looks like a fortress, right next to the church. This is the museum of the sculptor Einar Jónsson. There you can enjoy some of his best work and the admission price is a steal, only 600 ISK which comes to about 3€! In the back of the house there is a beautiful yard where replicas of some of Einar’s statues can be admired in a different environment.

PLACES OF INTEREST Despite our relatively short history as a city, modern Reykjavík is home to an impressive collection of interesting attractions and places of historic significance with much to pique the curiosity of visitors to the city.

From our impressive defining landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja and the Pearl to places of great importance like Höfdi house, where international history was made, you’ll be surprised by the variety of attractions on offer. If you’re perhaps looking for a more romantic destination where you can appreciate the marvels of nature or even something artistic, then our city is also well endowed with a myriad of marvellous places to engage more than just your gaze! Compiled in the following pages are some of our favourite must-see places of interest, including those hard to miss marvels of architecture and nature, and not forgetting the more obscure attractions and hidden gems of

Reykjavík. Wherever you go, we hope your day is filled with lovely lasting impressions of our city!

NATURE, PARKS & GARDENS Although the city of Reykjavík is a metropolis in every sense, it’s been carefully developed and crafted around a number of easily accessible recreational areas and country parks where nature is not only protected, but sustained, extended and encouraged to thrive. Dominated by a range of majestic mountains to the east and divided by one of the country’s best salmon rivers, the city of Reykjavík is a tempting attraction for anyone who loves to combine a lively city experience with the wholesome sights and sounds of nature. With our extensive network of wellmaintained footpaths and cycling routes, threading through some of the city’s numerous parks and nature reserves, visitors to Reykjavík won’t have to travel far to make a quick break from city life and explore the wilds of Reykjavík. The only problem is deciding which get-away method of transportation to employ! Be it rollerblading, cycling or simply on your own two feet, a little escapade to Eden awaits around every corner in Reykjavík with a seasonal soundtrack of nature to keep you company. Below you’ll find just a few of our favourite places to get away from it all.

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.

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Open daily from 9:00 – 17:00. We are about 20 minutes drive from Reykjavík on Route 1 towards Hveragerði.

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NAUTHÓLSVÍK GEOTHERMAL BEACH A little bit of paradise is to be found in the form of a golden-sanded geothermal beach at Nauthólsvík in Reykjavík.

It was opened in 2001 to the delight of residents and tourists alike and now attracts an estimated 530.000 guests each year. The creation of the geothermal beach was an ambitious, but very successful, project involving the construction of a lagoon with large sea walls, where cold sea and hot geothermal water fuse together resulting in higher temperatures. The main objective of creating the geothermal beach was to establish the bay of Nauthólsvík as a diverse outdoor area and haven for recreational activities, such as sunbathing, sailing and seaswimming: the latter is surprisingly popular all year round with people

enjoying the use of the hot-tubs, steam-bath and changing facilities and showers, even when the water drops below freezing. Cold-water swimming might sound crazy, especially in a country like Iceland, however this extreme activity dates all the way back to the age of settlement. The oldest recorded sea-swimming feat was performed in the year 1030, when Grettir Ásmundarson (of Icelandic Saga legend) swam a distance of 7km across a bay in North Iceland to the island of Drangey. The sea temperature varies from around -1,9°C during the coldest months and around 17°C in the summertime. Average temperatures are between 3°- 5°C in the winter and 12°- 15°C in the summer. The temperature of the sea inside the lagoon itself is higher in the summer, averaging at between 15°- 19°C, due to the geothermal heating. It’s also significantly warmer during the winter in opening hours when the overspill from the hot-tubs warm the lagoon. Keep in mind that this also depends on the tide. During high-tide when the lagoon floods temperature differences are negligible.

VIÐEY ISLAND AND THE PEACE TOWER Enjoy a short trip with the Elding ferry service to the lovely island of Viðey, situated in Kollafjörður just off the coast of Reykjavík.

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

The work is designed in the form of a wishing well from which a powerful tower of light beams. The words IMAGINE PEACE are inscribed on the well in 24 different languages.

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

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

With an extensive network of trails and a population of lovely resident horses the island can be explored both on foot and by horseback. No matter which path you take, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mainland, and to the west you’ll be able to see the impressive outline of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. In summertime there are daily ferry departures both from Skarfabakki pier and Ægisgardur harbour. The winter service runs on Saturdays and Sundays from Skarfabakki to Viðey. Note that trips to Viðey are free with the Reykjavík Welcome Card.

IMAGINE PEACE TOWER The Imagine Peace Tower is a work of art conceived as a beacon to world peace by the legendary artist, musician and peace advocate, Yoko Ono.

The strength, intensity and brilliance of the light tower continually change as particles in the air fluctuate with the changing weather and atmospheric conditions unique to Iceland. The inauguration of the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER took place during a private ceremony on 9 October 2007 on Viðey Island, Reykjavík, Iceland. The artwork was dedicated to the memory of John Lennon on what would have been his 67th birthday.   Since then it lights up the evening sky annually from 9th October to 8th December. It is also lit during the winter solstice for one week, on New Year’s Eve and on Spring Equinox for one week.

Iceland was ranked as the most peaceful country in the world 2013, according to the annual Global Peace Index compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace.

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

Island History Nature Art videy.com Summer Schedule from 15 May to 30 September 11:50

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

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From Ægisgarður

HÖFÐI HOUSE

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

It’s best known as the location for the 1986 summit meeting of presidents Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbatsjov, a historical event that effectively marked the end of the Cold War. During this meeting images of the house were broadcast all over the world. A Japanese millionaire even had an exact replica of the house built in his country. The sculpture in front of the house depicts pillars from the chieftain’s seat of the first Norwegian settler in Reykjavík. Höfði was initially the house of the French consul in Iceland and still bears many signs of its original purpose, such as the letters R.F (the abbreviation of the French Republic), the name of the consul and the year of its construction above an inside

door. Among other renowned guests of Höfði House include celebrities and heads of state, amongst them the Queen of England, Winston Churchilll and Marlene Dietrich. In addition, the house is believed to be occupied by a ghost, “The White Lady”, experienced by a former British Ambassador who once occupied the house. She caused so much distress that he persuaded the British Foreign Office to sell the house. Höfði is owned by the the City of Reykjavík and is currently used for official receptions and meetings. Although the house is unfortunately not open to the public, visitors are welcome to explore the house from the outside. Höfði House is located on Borgartún in the 105 area of Reykjavík overlooking the waterfront.

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The groundfloor of Höfðatorg, the tallest tower in Reykjavík, right opposite Höfði

The groundfloor of the historic Hotel Kea, in the heart of the city center

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

There are several different routes up and around the mountain, varying in terms of difficulty. The path is divided into sections, marked with signs along the way. Each sign gives an indication of the difficulty of the path ahead with a grade system ranging from 1 boot (easy) to 3 boots (challenging). At sign 3, experienced climbers can choose to climb directly to the top, instead of following the path which goes off to the right. Approximately 200 from the top, there’s a point marked with a big rock called “Steinn”. Most inexperienced climbers choose to stop here and take in the view

before going down again, as the path becomes increasingly difficult from there on. If you do get to the top, don’t forget to sign the guestbook! Please remember to take care when climbing. It can be steep in places and large quantities of snow are often present on the upper slopes. Follow your chosen route closely and definitely take advice on the weather conditions before attempting a climb. Mt. Esja is located in Kjalarnes, past the town of Mosfellsbaer just east of Reykjavík. It is accessible by the number 15 bus from Hlemmur bus station. Get off at Háholt in Mosfellsbaer, then take the number 57 to the foot of Esja at Esjuskáli.

ELLIÐAÁRDALUR VALLEY Elliðaárdalur Valley is a lush recreational area popular with walkers and cyclists alike. Located within the city limits of Reykjavík the valley features a distinctive fishing river populated with a remarkable number of Arctic char, salmon and brown trout. Fishing licenses are available during the summer fishing season, which is opened annually by the Major of Reykjavík on June 1st. The season ends on August 31st. Note it’s also possible to fish in the nearby Elliðavatn Lake and Reynisvatn Lake.

LAUGARDALUR VALLEY Laugardalur (Hot Spring Valley) is a major centre for sports and recreation in the capital. © Sigurður Jónsson @ Flickr

In Laugardalur you will find a youth hostel, a campsite, and

The Family Park and Zoo in Laugardalur is open all year. The Zoo includes most Icelandic animals, both wild and domesticated, from foxes, reindeer and seals to cattle, horses and sheep. In summer the Family Park offers many rides and play equipment for children of all ages. Outside the summer season the Family Park remains open as a play area. At the edge of the Laugardalur valley, not far from Laugardalur Arena, is a strangely

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

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

HEIÐMÖRK NATURE RESERVE Situated on the southeast outskirts of Reykjavík city is Heiðmörk - a wonderful recreational area with many trails leading through a vast expanse of bushy vegetation and lava formations. Some of the parks most notable features are the Rauðhólar or ‘Red Hills’ – the remnants of a cluster of pseudocraters in Ellidaárhraun lava field. Heiðmörk is a favourite with the locals, especially for sports enthusiasts, those with children and couples looking for a romantic retreat!

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shaped, domed white building. It is known as the Reykjavík Art Museum’s Ásmundarsafn sculpture collection. This used to be the studio of Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982), a pioneer of Icelandic sculpture. In addition to his works exhibited inside the museum, a sculpture garden outside contains many of his monumental works.

THINGS TO DO

the largest outdoor thermal pool in Reykjavík, Laugardalslaug, in which you can swim all year round. It is very hard to describe the experience of tiptoeing over frozen ground to the pool in your swimsuit and then immersing yourself in the wonderful water that nature (and some ingenious Icelandic geothermal engineering) has thoughtfully heated to just the right temperature: the number of returning visitors definitely suggests it’s worth trying. Laugardalur also boasts a beautiful botanical garden featuring an impressive selection of Arctic flowers and plants. Beneath the branches of a leafy grove in the gardens you’ll find the lovely Café Flora.

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More than four million trees have been planted there since 1950 and the already existing vegetation has thrived since the area was fencedoff. The most prominent of the 26 species of trees planted is the Sitka spruce. Those fascinated by the more feathery residents of Reykjavík will be pleased to discover that 30 species of breeding birds have also been spotted.

ÖSKJUHLÍÐ Öskjuhlíð is a beautiful woodland area surrounding the Pearl - one

of Reykjavík’s stunning landmark buildings. Conveniently located right in the heart of the city this gorgeous place makes for a popular quick getaway from city life, where visitors can cycle or walk along the various paths, that weave through a dense forest of pines and birch trees. The paths around Öskjuhlíð join an extensive network of wellmaintained footpaths in Reykjavík, leading through the scenic shores of Nauthólsvík and around the coastline to Seltjarnanes. Another option is to take the southeast trail to the recreational areas and valleys of Fossvogsdalur and Elliðaárdalur and on to the Heiðmörk heath nature reserve.

THINGS TO DO

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

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

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.

www.reykjaviksegwaytours.com Segway tours, scheduled tours in summer and private tours are available all year. Call, text: 00 354 897 2790.

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TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN You’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.

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.

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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.

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 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.

VISIT VIÐEY ISLAND 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 up-close 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.

INDOOR TIVOLI PARK Smára Tívolí in Smáralind opened only a few years back and is the only indoor family entertainment center in Iceland! This amusement park has a lot of activities for all ages and is a great palce to spend the day with your family and friends.

0-12 years

Visit us at our store in downtown Reykjavík on Skólavörðustígur 4 or at our store in Kringlan mall. You can also find us online at www.igloandindi.com

e c r u o s A alth e h of Th er m al sw i m m in g po ol s

Hot t ubs and jacuzzi

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

Reykjavik's Thermal Pools

0LiTsSk. 60 ADU k. 130DiRsEN CHIL

Sa un as , steambaths an d sh ow ers

Se ve n lo ca t io ns

Op en ea rl y un t il la te

Tel: +354 411 5000 â&#x20AC;˘ www.spacity.is

*Admission may 2014. Price is subject to change

O N LY

Pools and spas are a huge part of the Reykjavík lifestyle. Geothermal water is one of Iceland’s greatest natural resources. It’s used to heat houses and produce electricity, but moreover Icelanders just love to sit in it. Many believe Iceland’s geothermal water includes some great health benefits, especially for skin ailments like psoriasis and eczema. But besides that, these waters imbue the body with a great feeling of well-being. 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.

POOLS & SPAS THERMAL POOLS INCLUDED IN THE REYKJAVÍK WELCOME CARD 100

ÁRBÆJARLAUG Fylkisvegur 9, 110 Reykjavík | +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 | +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 | +354 510 4600 Open: M-T 06:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sa –Su 09:00-18:00

SUNDHÖLL HAFNARFJARÐAR Herjólfsgata 10, 220 Hafnarfjörður | +354 555 0088 ÁSVALLALAUG Ásvellir 2, 221 Hafnarfjörður | +354 512 4050 SUÐURBÆJARLAUG Hringbraut 77, 220 Hafnarfjörður | +354 565 3080 KÓPAVOGSLAUG Borgarholtsbraut 17, 200 Kópavogur | +354 570 0470

If you’d like to treat yourself to Reykjavík’s loved spa culture, indulge in a trip to the local pool or spa. KLÉBERGSLAUG Kjalarnes, 116 Reykjavík | +354 566 6879 Open: M-F 15:00-21:00, Sa-Su 11:00-15:00 LAUGARDALSLAUG Sundlaugarvegur, 104 Reyk. | +354 411 5100 Open: M-F 6:30-22:00, Sa-Su 8:00-22:00 SUNDHÖLL REYKJAVÍKUR Barónstígur, 101 Reykjavík | +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 | +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 GARÐABÆJARLAUG Ásgarður, 210 Garðabær | +354 565 8066 ÁLFTANESLAUG Bjarnastaðir, 225 Álftanes | +354 550 2350 SUNDLAUG SELTJARNARNESS Suðurströnd, 170 Seltjarnar. | +354 561 1551

SALALAUG Versalir 3, 201 Kópavogur | +354 570 0480

LOFTLEIÐALAUG Loftleiðir hotel, 101 Reyk. | +354 444 4085

LÁGAFELLSLAUG Lækjarhlíð 1a, 270 Mosfell. | +354 517 6080

NAUTHÓLSVÍK Nauthólsvegur, 101 Reyk., | +354 511 6630

VARMÁRLAUG 270 Mosfellsbær | +354 566 6754

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

REYKJAVIK ON FOOT 102

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.

(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.

101 R EY K JAV ÍK – L AUGAV EGU R 4 4, H A FNA R STR ÆTI 5 & SKÓL AVÖR ÐUSTÍGU R 10

(4) THE HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT

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

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

(6) THE PENALTY HOUSE One of the city’s oldest buildings is the Hegningarhúsið jail (literally, “The Penalty House”) built in 1874. It still

functions as a prison today, although with no cafeteria or gym this dreary place makes Iceland’s other prisons look like Club Med.

(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.

(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.

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

(2) JÓN SIGURÐSSON (1811 – 1879)

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

(3) TRYGGVAGARÐUR GARDEN Named after Tryggvi Gunnarsson (1835 – 1917), a renowned entrepreneur and prime minister of Iceland, this garden dates back to 1893 and is known as a place where the nation’s leaders come

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WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

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

to make important decisions. After all, it’s located directly behind the House of Parliament.

THINGS TO DO

Duration: About 4.5 hours with refreshment stops. Distance: 3,2 km/2 miles.

(5) FÓGETAGARÐURINN PARK

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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.

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

(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

(1770 – 1844) 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. 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.

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(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

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

(16) INGÓLFSBREKKA HILL Probably one of the best-preserved sections of old Reykjavik’s landscape. In 1806, it marked the eastern boundary of the city.

(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.

(14) 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).

(15) HANNES HAFSTEIN (1861 – 1922) Farm boy from the North makes

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

(21) LEIF THE LUCKY 20

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.

(18) 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.

THINGS TO DO

(17) SHERIFF’S GARDEN

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

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

(19) ARNARHÓLL HILL

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

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

EVENT CALENDAR – JUNE 2014 – NATIONAL DAY 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

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VIKING FESTIVAL IN HAFNARFJÖRÐUR 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

FESTIVAL OF THE SEA

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 lighthearted occasion with lots of fun for the whole family. www.hatidhafsins.is

– JULY 2014 – INGÓLFSHÁTÍÐ VIKING FESTIVAL

For three days in July Reykjavík’s Hljómskálagarður Park is impressively transformed from modern to medieval as the Einherjar Vikings of Reykjavík host in great spirit and authenticity the new annual Ingólfshátíð Viking Festival. The event is named and dedicated to the memory of both Ingólfur Arnason – the first settler of Reykjavík, and Ingólfur Júliusson – a beloved and brave founding member of the Einherjar Viking group. Dressed in full costume and character the festival invites fellow Vikings from all over the world to enjoy a weekend of wonderful festivities and to celebrate the fascinating cultural heritage of the Vikings! Viking festival of Reykjavik “Ingólfshátíð” on Facebook

REY CUP 2011 INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL FESTIVAL

Viking Festival in Hafnjafjörður

“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

ICELANDIC LOCAL BEER PLATTER

All the Games and all the Action Live Music Every Night Sunny Outdoor Area Save Water, Drink Beer AUSTURSTRÆTI 12 • 101 REYKJAVÍK • ENSKIBARINN@ENSKIBARINN.IS

– AUGUST 2014 – INNIPUKINN FESTIVAL

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.

REYKJAVÍK GAY PRIDE

This colourful event brings tens of thousands of people into the city centre every year to show solidarity and have fun with the gay community in 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 CULTURE NIGHT

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

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REYKJAVÍK DANCE FESTIVAL

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

REYKJAVÍK JAZZ FESTIVAL

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

THE ICELANDIC CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

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 MARATHON

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

– SEPTEMBER 2014 – TANGO FESTIVAL – TANGO ON ICELAND

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

– OCTOBER 2014 – ICELAND AIRWAVES

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

IMAGINE PEACE TOWER

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 (October 9th) and the day of his death (December 8th). www.imagineReykjavík.com

REYKJAVÍK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL - RIFF

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

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF CHILDREN’S LITERATURE

– NOVEMBER 2014 – UNGLIST (YOUNG ART FESTIVAL)

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

LIGHTING OF OSLO CHRISTMAS TREE

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 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.

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NEW YEAR’S EVE

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 send-off 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.

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

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

EVENTS

The International Festival of Children’s Literature: In the Moorland is a children’s and youth literature festival held biennially. The festival program is diverse, with participation of authors and scholars from Iceland and abroad. Among different events are: readings, panels and literary programs at the Nordic House, author talks and discussions, lectures by literary scholars and exhibitions and workshops. www.myrin.is

– DECEMBER 2014 –

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

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

SÓNAR IS

– JANUARY 2015 – ÞRETTÁNDINN (TWELFTH NIGHT)

January 6th, 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.

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REYKJAVÍK INTERNATIONAL GAMES

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

DARK MUSIC DAYS

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

THORRINN

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

– FEBRUARY 2015 – WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL

The Winter Lights Festival is designed to be an annual event to stimulate and enliven

an international festival of advanced music and new media art. The festival presents the current electronic musical landscape and its interactions and hybridization with other artistic disciplines. Sónar brings together established artists and emerging talent that are renewing all areas on the musical landscape and innovating audiovisual creations. www.sonarreykjavik.com

– MARCH 2015 – DESIGN MARCH

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

FOOD AND FUN

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

EVE FANFEST

Eve Fanfest is an exciting annual weekend event inviting countless fans from across the world to celebrate and share their passion for EVE - the largest science fiction multiplayer online game in the world. www.fanfest.eveonline.com

THE ICELANDIC

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

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

DAS ISLÄNDISCHE PHALLUSMUSEUM

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

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

No pornography or offensive material in the museum.

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

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

REYKJAVÍK MUSIC MESS

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

BRIGHT DAYS IN HAFNARFJORDUR

REYKJAVÍK FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL

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

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REYKJAVÍK FASHION FESTIVAL

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

THE ICELANDIC MUSIC EXPERIMENTS

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

– APRIL 2015 – FIRST DAY OF SUMMER

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.

CHILDREN‘S CULTURE FESTIVAL

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

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

REYKJAVÍK BLUES FESTIVAL

International Reykjavík Blues Festival will be held at Hilton 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

– MAY 2015 – REYKJAVÍK ARTS FESTIVAL

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

RAFLOST FESTIVAL OF ELECTRONIC ARTS

RAFLOST electronic art festival is an annual boost to the grass root of Icelandic electronic arts. The festival is held in May in Reykjavík. The main aim of the RAFLOST electronic art festival is to boost the grass root of Icelandic electronic arts by introducing the youngest generation as well as the general public, to the past, present and future of electronic arts. To present the newest in electronic art technology, creation and performance, and therefore be an inspiration for further creativity. www.raflost.is

BE WARM BE WELL ICEWEAR SHOPS Þingholtsstræti 2-4 Reykjavík Fákafen 9 (Outlet) Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 106 Akureyri Austurvegi 20 Vík í Mýrdal

www.icewear.is

ACCOMMODATION With 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

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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.

HOTELS 101 HOTEL Hverfisgata 10. 101 Reykjavík +354 580 0101 | 101hotel.is

CENTRE HOTEL SKJALDBREID Laugavegur 16, 101 Reykjavik +354 595 8500 | centerhotels.com

4TH FLOOR HOTEL Laugavegur 101. 101 Reykjavík +354 511 30 30 | 4thfloorhotel.is

CITY CENTER HOTEL Austurstræti 6, 101 Reykjavík +354 571 1400 | citycenterhotel.is

ADAM HOTEL Skolavordustigur 42, 101 Reykjavík +354 861 4142 | adam.is

FOSSHOTEL BARON Baronstígur 2-4, 101 Reykjavik +354 562 3204 | fosshotel.is

ARCTIC COMFORT Sidumuli 19, 108 Reykjavik +354 588 5588 | arcticcomforthotel.is

FOSSHOTEL LIND Rauðararstigur 18, 101 Reykjavik +354 562 3350 | fosshotel.is

BEST WESTERN HOTEL REYKJAVÍK Raudararstigur 37, 101 Reykjavik +354 514 7000 | Hotel Reykjavik

GRAND HOTEL REYKJAVÍK Sigtun 38, 105 Reykjavik +354 514 8000 | grand.is

CENTER HOTEL PLAZA Adalstraeti 4, 101 Reykjavik +354 595 8550 | centerhotels.com

HILTON REYKJAVÍK NORDICA Suðurlandsbraut 2, 108 Reykjavik +354 444 5000 | hiltonreykjavik.com

CENTER HOTEL THINGHOLT Þingholtsstræti 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 595 8530 | centerhotels.com

HLEMMUR SQUARE Laugavegur 105, 105 Reykjavík +354 415 1600 | hlemmursquare.com

CENTER HOTEL KLOPP Klapparstigur 26, 101 Reykjavik +354 595 8520 | centerhotels.com

HOTEL BJORK Brautarholt 22-24 +354 511 3777 | keahotels.is

CENTRE HOTEL ARNARHVOLL Ingolfsstraeti 1, 101 Reykjavik +354 595 8540 | centerhotels.com

HOTEL BORG Pósthússtræti 11, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 1440 | keahotels.is

HOTEL CABIN Borgartun 32, 105 Reykjavík +354 511 6030 | hotelcabin.is

HOTEL SMARI Hlidarsmari 13, 200 Kopavogur +354 588 1900 | hotelsmari.is

HOTEL FRON Laugavegur 22A, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 4666 | hotelfron.is

HOTEL VIKING Strandgata 52, 220 Hafnarfjordur +354 565 1213 | fjorukrain.is

HOTEL GARÐUR Hringbraut 29, 101 Reykjavík +354 571 6200 | hotelgardur.is

HOTEL 66 Grensásvegur 14, 108 Reykjavik +354 588 0000 | hotel66.is

HOTEL HAFNARFJORDUR Reykjavikurvegur 72, 220 Hafnarfjordur +354 540 9700 | hhotel.is

ICELANDAIR HOTEL REYKJAVIK MARINA Mýrargata 2 1, 101 Reykjavik +354 560 8000 icelandairhotels.com/en/hotels/marina

HOTEL HILDA Barugata 11, 101 Reykjavik +354 552 3020 | hotelhilda.is

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HOTEL HOLT Bergstadarstraeti 37, 101 Reykjavik +354 552 5700 | holt.is

ICELANDAIR HOTEL REYKJAVIK NATURA Nauthólsvegur 52, 101 Reykjavik +354 444 4500 | icelandairhotels.com/en/hotels/natura

HOTEL KLETTUR Mjölnisholt 12-14, Reykjavík 105 +354 440 1600 | hotelklettur.is

ICELANDIC FARM HOLIDAYS Sidumuli 2, 108 Reykjavík +354 570 2700 | farmholidays.is

HOTEL LAXNES Haholt 7, 270 Mosfellsbaer +354 566 8822 | hotellaxnes.is

METROPOLITAN HOTEL Ránargata 4a, 101 Reykjavik +354 511 1155 | metropolitan.is

HOTEL LEIFUR EIRIKSSON Skólavorðustigur 45, 101 Reykjavik +354 562 0800 | hotelleifur.is

PARK INN ISLAND HOTEL Armuli 9, 108 Reykjavik +354 595 7000 | parkinn.com/hotel-reykjavik

HOTEL LOTUS Álftamýri 7, 108 Reykjavík +354 517 5151 | hotellotus.is HOTEL ODINSVE Þórsgata 1, 101 Reykjavik +354 511 6200 | hotelodinsve.is HOTEL ORKIN THE FAROESE SEAMENSHOME Brautarholt 29, 105 Reykjavik +354 568 0777 | hotelorkin.is HOTEL PHOENIX Laugavegur 140, 105 Reykjavík +354 511 5002 | phoenix.is HOTEL REYKJAVIK CENTRUM Adalstraeti 16, 101 Reykjavik +354 514 6000 | hotelcentrum.is

RADISSON BLU 1919 HOTEL Posthusstraeti 2, 101 Reykjavik +354 599 1000 radissonblu.com/1919hotel-reykjavik RADISSON BLU SAGA HOTEL Hagatorg, 107 Reykjavik +354 525 9900 radissonblu.com/sagahotel-reykjavik REYKJAVÍK HOSTEL VILLAGE Flokagata 1, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 1155 | hostelvillage.is

GUESTHOUSES 101 GUESTHOUSE Laugavegur 101, 101 Reykjavik + 354 562 6101 | www.iceland101.com

BÍNA GUESTHOUSE Bugðulækur 1, 101 Reykjavík + 354 588-7585

101 SKUGGI GESTHOUSE Lindargötu 50, 101 Reykjavík + 354 662 4101 | 101skuggi.wix.com/reykjavik

BLÁKLUKKA GUESTHOUSE Hvammsgerði 12, 108 Reykjavík + 354 8483878 | www.blaklukka.com

3 SISTERS Ranargata 16, 101 Reykjavik + 354 565 2181 | www.threesisters.is 32 TUNGATA Tungata 32, 101 Reykjavik + 354 821 9353 | www.tungata.com

ALBA GUESTHOUSE Eskihlid 3, 105 Reykjavik + 354 552 9800 | www.alba.is ALFHOLL GUESTHOUSE Ranargata 8, 101 Reykjavik + 354 898 1838 | www.alfholl.is ANNA GUESTHOUSE Smaragata 16, 101 Reykjavik + 354 562 1618 | www.guesthouseanna.is AR GUESTHOUSE Bræðraborgarstígur 3, 101 Reykjavík + 354 859 3979 | www.arguesthouse.is ARAHÚS GUESTHOUSE Strandgata 21, 220 Hafnarfjordur + 354 555 1770 | www.arahus.is ARCTIC COMFORT Síðumúla 19, 108 Reykjavík + 354 588 5588 | arcticcomforthotel.is ARNI’S PLACE Bergstadastraeti 14, 101 Reykjavik + 354 661 7015 / 661 6192 | www.arnisplace.com

ASKOT Asvallagata 52, 101 Reykjavik + 354 562 8283 | www.askot.is AURORA GUESTHOUSE Freyjugata 24, 101 Reykjavik + 354 552 5515 | www.aurorahouse.is BALDURSBRA GUESTHOUSE Laufasvegur 41, 101 Reykjavik + 354 552 6646

BUTTERFLY GUESTHOUSE Ranargata 8a, 101 Reykjavik + 354 894 1864 | www.butterfly.is CAPITAL-INN GUESTHOUSE Sudurhlið 35d, 105 Reykjavik + 354 588 2100 | www.capitalinn.is CHEZ MONIQUE GUESTHOUSE Tjarnargata 10 B, 101 Reykjavík + 354 562 3377 | www.chezmonique.is DOMUS GUESTHOUSE Hverfisgata 45, 101 Reykjavik + 354 561 1200 | www. domusguesthouse.is

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DOWNTOWN KONRADS GUESTHOUSE B&B Lindargata 23, 101 Reykjavik + 354 664 5726 EGILSBORG GUESTHOUSE Þverholt 20, 105 Reykjavik + 354 561 2600 | www.guesthouse1.com ELLIDAHVAMMUR GUESTHOUSE Ellidahvammurv/Vatnsenda, 203 Kopavogur + 354 567 0230 | www.farmholidays.is ERIC THE RED GUESTHOUSE Eiríksgata 6, 101 Reykjavik + 354 552 1940 | www.eric.is FITJAR GUESTHOUSE Fitjar, 270 Mosfellsbær + 354 565 6474 | fitjarguesthouse.com GALLERY CENTRAL Ranargata 11, 101 Reykjavik + 354 899 9445 | www.gallerycentral.is GALTAFELL GUESTHOUSE Laufasvegur 46, 101 Reykjavik + 354 551 4344 | www.galtafell.com GUESTHOUSE BB44 Borgarholtsbraut 44, 200 Kópavogur + 354 554 4228 | www.bb44.is

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ART CENTRUM Grjótagata 6, 101 Reykjavík + 354 847 1567 | www.artcentrum.is

BRATTAGATA GUESTHOUSE Brattagata 3b, 101 Reykjavik + 354 612 9800 | brattagata.123.is

ACCOMMODATION

ADAMHÓTEL Skólavörðustíg 42, 101 Reykjavík + 354 896 0242 | www.adamhotel.com

BORGARTUN GUESTHOUSE Borgartun 34, 105 Reykjavik + 354 511 1515 | www.gjtravel.is

GUESTHOUSE ELSA Fálkastígur 4, 225 Álftanes + 354 565 0966

HOME LUXURY APARTMENTS Skolastraeti 1, 101 Reykjavik + 354 561 5570 | www.homereykjavik.is

GUESTHOUSE EYVINDARHOLT Eyvindarholti, 225 Álftanes + 354 849 4361

KONRAD’S DOWNTOWN GUESTHOUSE Lokastígur 11, 101 Reykjavik + 354 6645726

GUESTHOUSE HAFDÍS Brekkustíg 17, 101 Reykjavík + 354 899 6255

KRIUNES GUESTHOUSE Við Vatnsenda, 203 Kopavogur + 354 567 2245 | www.kriunes.is

GUESTHOUSE IN REYKJAVÍK Laugarnestangi 60, 105 Reykjavík + 354 588 1874

LAUGABJARG GUESTHOUSE Sundlaugarvegur 37, 105 Reykjavik +354 771 2009 | www.laugabjarg.is

GUESTHOUSE LENA Fjólugata 11, 101 Reykjavík + 354 898 0362

LILY GUESTHOUSE Nýbýlavegur 30, 200 Kópavogur + 354 555 2345 | www.lily.is

GUESTHOUSE MONICA BLONDAL Aflagrandi 20, 107 Reykjavik + 354 552 3644

LOKI 101 GUESTHOUSE Lokastígur 24a, 101 Reykjavik + 354 553 9344 | www.loki101.is

GUESTHOUSE ODINN Odinsgata 9, 101 Reykjavik + 354 561 3400 | odinnreykjavik.com

MINNA-MOSFELL GUESTHOUSE Minna-Mosfell, 271 Mosfellsbær + 354 669 03566 | minnamosfell.net

GUESTHOUSE SUNNA Thorsgata 26, 101 Reykjavik + 354 511 5570 | www.sunna.is

PALSHUS GUESTHOUSE Einarsnes 58, 101 Reykjavik + 354 552 1157 | www.palshus.is

LAVA HOSTEL Hjallabraut 51, 220 Hafnarfjörður + 354 565 0900 | www.lavahostel.is

ROOM4U GUESTHOUSE Efstasund 83, 104 REykjavik + 354 553 7045

HEIDA’S HOME/CENTER Hverfisgata 102, 101 Reykjavík + 354 553 6435 | www.heidashome.com

SALVATION ARMY GUESTHOUSE Kirkjustraeti 2, 101 Reykjavik + 354 561 3203 | www.guesthouse.is

HELGUHUS GUESTHOUSE Laekjarkinn 8, 220 Hafnarfjordur + 354 555 2842 | ww w.helguhus.is

SELF CATERING ACCOMODATION Grundartanga 23 270, Mosfellsbæ + 354 898 7720 | www.270mos.is

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HOLL COTTAGE GUESTHOUSE Grjotagata 12, 101 Reykjavik +354 551 2044

ACCOMMODATION

GUESTHOUSE DRAUPNIR Odinsgata 15, 101 Reykjavik + 354 552 4494 | www.ghdraupnir.com

SNORRI GUESTHOUSE Snorrabraut 61 , 105 Reykjavik + 354 552 0589 | guesthousereykjavik.com

TOWN HOUSE Laugateigur 26, 105 Reykjavik + 354 618 3618 | www.townhouse.is

THOR GUESTHOUSE Skolavordustigur 16, 101 Reykjavik + 354 562 5482 | www.tgh.is

WHITE SWAN GUESTHOUSE Vatnsstigur 11, 101 Reykjavik + 354 533 4101 | reykjavikguesthouse.is

TJALDANES 270 Mosfellsbær + 354 896 8926 | www.tjaldanes.is

VID LÆKINN GUESTHOUSE Laekjarkinn 2, 220 Hafnarfjördur + 354 565 5132

TOWER AND PERLAN GUESTHOUSE Grettisgata 22c, 101 Reykjavík + 354 561 8020 | www.tower.is

HOSTELS BUS HOSTEL Skógarhlíð 10, 105 Reykjavík +354 535 0350 | bushostelreykjavik.com HOSTEL B47 Barónststígur 47, 101 Reykjavík +354 458 9000 | hostelb47.is KEX HOSTEL Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 60 60 | www.kexhostel.is

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REYKJAVIK BACKPACKERS Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavik +354 578 3700 | www.reykjavikbackpackers.com

REYKJAVIK CITY HOSTEL Sundlaugavegur 34, 105 Reykjavik +354 553 8110 hostel.is/Hostels/Reykjavikcity REYKJAVIK DOWNTOWN HOSTEL Vesturgata 17, 101 Reykjavik +354 553 8120 hostel.is/Hostels/Reykjavikdowntown REYKJAVÍK LOFT HOSTELS Bankastræti 7, 101Reykjavík +354 553 8140 hostel.is/hostel/reykjavikloft.is

LAVA HOSTEL Hjallabraut 51, 220 Hafnarfjörður +354 565 0900 | lavahostel.is

CAMPSITES HAFNARFJÖRÐUR CAMPSITE Hjallabraut 51, 220 Hafnarfjörður +354 565 0900 | www.hafnarfjordurguesthouse.is

REYKJAVÍK CAMPSITE Sundlaugavegur 32, 105 Reykjavík +354 568 6944 | reykjavikcampsite.is

GOOD TO KNOW Here you’ll find the nitty-gritty nuts and bolts of life in the city. Although Reykjavík is a relatively small place, it may take some time to figure out how to navigate the city. Most of downtown can be covered by foot, but when you leave the centre things get a little trickier. DOMESTIC AIR TERMINAL Air Iceland maintains a domestic network based in Reykjavík with destinations around the island and links to the Faeroe Islands and Greenland.

BSI-BUS TERMINAL Take the bus to destinations all around the island.

TAXIS IN REYKJAVÍK Taxis in Reykjavík tend to be rather nice: Mercedes, Audis, etc. You can always pay with a credit card. Taxis are normally summoned with a phone call or go to a taxi stand.

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

Hreyfill-Bæjarleiðir +354 588 5522

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.

Bifreiðastöð Reykjavíkur +354 561 0000

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

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

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) +354 562 1011 | www.flybus.is AIRPORT EXPRESS +354 540 1313 | airportexpress.is

DRIVING IN REYKJAVIK SPEED LIMITS On city streets the speed limit is generally 50kph / 30mph, unless otherwise posted. There are speed bumps, roundabouts and traffic cameras. SEATBELTS Wearing seatbelts at all times is mandatory and children under the age of five must be strapped into an approved child seat. PARKING Free parking can be hard to find in the city centre, and violators are towed away literally within minutes. The city uses both parking meters as well as dashboard slips for metered parking.

ARRIVAL Buy your ticket in the arrivals terminal or online.

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

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.

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.

Airport Express takes you from Keflavík to the centre of Reykjavík at Hafnarstraeti 20, not far away from the main taxi-stand on Lækjargata.

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).

CITY BUS (STRÆTÓ) Bus maps are available at bus stations and tourist information centres. Most bus stops also include a route map. You can go to www.bus.is, also in English, and get precise directions about which buses to use.

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”.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

CELL PHONES / GSM

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.

GOOD TO KNOW

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.

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

ICELAND‘S SECRET TO HEALTHY LIVING

H V Í TA H Ú S I Ð / S Í A 1 4 - 1 4 0 5

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

Hamraborg 6A +354 570 0430 | www.natkop.is Open: Mon-Thu 10-19, Fri 11-17, Sat 13-17

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The Kópavogur thermal pool is a great place for young families, with a swimming pool, several hot tubs and a sauna. There is also a Nautilus gym on the grounds. Borgarholtsbraut 17 +354 570 0470 | sund.kopavogur.is Open: May—Sep | Mon-Fri 6.30-22 Sat-Sun 8-20 Oct—Apr | Mon-Fri 6.30-22 Sat-Sun 8-18

Another great place to make a splash is the Versalir thermal pool and gym. As one of the newest facilities in the capital area, it’s well worth a visit. If you’d rather work up a sweat then you could visit Nautilus gym onsite. Versölum 3 +354 570 0480 | sund.kopavogur.is Open: May—Sep | Mon-Fri 6.30-22 Sat-Sun 8-20 Oct—Apr | Mon-Fri 6.30-22 Sat-Sun 8-18

The Hamraborg area is serviced by bus no. 1

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.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 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.

NEIGHBOURING TOWNS

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

HAFNAFJÖRÐUR THE TOWN OF LAVA The charming town of Hafnafjörður – 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 lava-field this harbour town is a complete scenic treasure with numerous beautiful sights.

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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 town-centre. 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.

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

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 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. www.visithafnafjordur.is

THE HIDDEN PEOPLE Hafnarfjörður is famous for being home to one of the largest settlements of

15 minutes from downtown Reykjavík, bus no. 1

INGÓLFSSTRÆTI 1A 101 REYKJAVÍK WWW.ISLENSKIBARINN.IS POSTUR@ISLENSKIBARINN.IS SÍMI: 517 6767

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

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Since much of the town is located within a beautiful nature reserve, it attracts many of the locals, who make use of its excellent recreational areas and the extensive walking and cycling paths encircling the entire peninsula. Its unobstructed views, of the setting sun and the impressive Snæfellsjökull glacier, make it a major romantic destination and magnet for travellers and photographers alike. During the winter, the areas around the coastline become a perfect platform for viewing the magnificent Northern Lights and maybe a shooting star or two! The most visible landmark is the old lighthouse on Grótta Ísland, where you’ll find unending sea-views and a wealth of birdlife. Observe that during the nesting season Grótta is closed from 1st of May until 1st of July.

Adding extra idyllic charm to the town is a permanent art installation entitled Kvika by Ólöf Nordal. Made of dolomite stone with a round footbath carved into the centre, this extraordinary work of art is located on the northern side of the peninsula next to the shark-curing shed. People visiting are thoroughly encouraged to bring a towel and make good use of it by taking a relaxing footbath out in the open sea-air! In case you’d like to 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. 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 touchscreen display. Free admission and open 24 hours a day.

Another historical sight worth a visit is Krókur at Garðaholt, a small gabled

Open on Sundays in June - August from13:00-17:00. Free admission.

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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 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! www.gardabaer.is

The Hamraborg area is serviced by bus no. 1, 23 & 24

WWW.VISITREYKJAVIK.IS

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 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

farmhouse clad with corrugated iron and 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!

NEIGHBOURING TOWNS

Garðabær, 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.

MOSFELLSBÆR NATURAL LIVING

With 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.

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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 (19021998), whose home has now been converted into a museum. 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. www.visitmosfellsbaer.is

Serviced by bus no. 15

KJÓS DISCOVER THE GREAT OUTDOORS Kjós 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.

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