JANUARY 2014
IN REYKJAVIK
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
REYKJAVIK’S LEADING GUIDE TO ENTERTAINMENT, EATING OUT, MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES.
Reykjavík Art Museum
Open daily One admission to three museums
KjarVaLssTaðIr Flókagata Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
HafnarHús Tryggvagata 17 Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursdays 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
8. 2. 2014–18. 5. 2014 Harro 8. 2. 2014–18. 5. 2014 Hildur Ásgeirsdóttir jónsson: Core 1. 2. 2014–12. 10. 2014 The seasons in Kjarval’s art Ásmundarsafn Sigtún Open daily 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
25. 1. 2014–13. 4. 2014 Katrín sigurðardóttir: foundation, Iceland’s contribution to the Venice Biennale 2013 1. 2. 2014 –13. 4. 2014 The Cadences of Line and Colour 12. 10. 2013–28. 9. 2014 Erró: The World Today
18. 1. 2014–27. 4. 2014 “I’ve never seen figurative electricity” www.artmuseum.is artmuseum@reykjavik.is +354 590 1200
Katrín Sigurðardóttir, Foundation at Venice Biennale 2013
Jóhannes S. Kjarval, First Snow, 1953.
Harro Koskinen, The Pig Messiah, 1969, acrylic on wood and chipboard, The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
Erró, Storm/Óveður, 2011
WHAT’S ON
CONTENTS JANUARY 2014
ON THE COVER: JANUARY IN ICELAND
Happy new year you guys! Hope you had an awesome 2013 and wishing you an even EXPERIENCE 6-19 more awesome 2014!
MUSEUM WALK
20-21
EVENT CALENDAR
22-33
REYKJAVIK CITY MAP 34-35 WHATSON.IS 36-39 ART & CULTURE
40-45
NIGHTLIFE 46-47 SHOPPING & STYLE 48-51 FOOD & DRINK
52-57
PRACTICAL INFO
58-65
Looking back on the year, a lot of stuff has happened for us. We gave the magazine a huge facelift in March, which we‘ve been expanding on every issue since then. Then we re-opened our website, www.whatson. is, which we‘re also working on constantly, every aiming to do better. Don‘t hesitate to give us feedback if there‘s anything you like, dislike or just have an opinion on in general, we‘d love to hear from you. January is always a bit rough for us Icelanders. As is our style, we do Christmas really grand, before proceeding to blow it all up during new years eve ( which is a great, while perhaps not-so-safe, tradition). After that, it‘s back to the bleak reality, but now with the added hangover of Christmas over-spending, over-eating, over-drinking and over-doing. But we get over it relatively quickly, as is our style. One of our favourite ways of coping with reality is doing New Year resolutions. Every Icelander worth his name subscribes for a gym membership, showing up a maximum of four times before spending the rest of the year cursing it. But only until December, then we think about renewing it and “really doing it this year“. Except for the select few that actually make it and really do it. Every year. Most of us are quite envious of those people. Here‘s to hoping all of us can be one of those people in 2014! The lucky few who honour their resolutions. The ones who don‘t go overboard in eating and drinking. The ones who prosper and have an amazing 2014! Here‘s to you guys!
Volume 32– Issue 1. Published by MD Reykjavik ehf. Skógarhlíð 22, 105 Reykjavik. Tel.: 899-2255. E-mail: whatson@whatson.is
www.whatson.is
Editor: Hjörtur Atli Guðmunds. Geirdal, hjortur@whatson.is, Tel.:847-4153.
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Layout & design: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, sbs@sbs.is Journalist: Hekla Elísabet Aðalsteinsdóttir, hekla.elisabet@mydestination.com Cover Photo: Ásta Karen Ólafsdóttir Printing House: Ásprent-Stíll ehf. Akureyri WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVIK is published monthly covering events and happenings in and around Reykjavik. Opinions expressed in WHAT‘S ON IN Reykjavik are those of the individual authors. While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is accurate, prices, times, dates and other information may be subject to change.
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EXPERIENCE WHAT’S ON
THE TASTE OF ICELAND 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.
ICE (CREAM) LAND Icelanders, somewhat appropriately, love ice cream. They love it at any time, in fact, you can sometimes see a line at the ice cream parlour in a snowstorm. There is a long-standing debate in Reykjavík of which is better, Ísbúð Vesturbæjar or the one in Skeifan. Unless of course you’re from the north, and the obvious winner is Brynjuís. Because, well, obviously. TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC FOOD Finally, don’t miss out on the traditional Icelandic food! These dishes, prepared the same way they have for centuries, are steeped in history and... other things. There are some flavours everyone can enjoy such as the smoked lamb, flat bread, and liverwurst and some more unusual delicacies such as blood pudding and dried fish. At the far end of the spectrum you find curiosities of acquired taste such as fermented shark, singed sheep’s head and pickled ram’s testicles. These are otherwise known as “things you only eat so you can tell your friends at home you did it”. With a shot of Brennivin, an Icelandic Schnapps lovingly nicknamed “Black Death”, you can wash down your meal, along with washing away any memory you might have had of the whole affair.
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The Icelandic hot dog is 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.
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© travelwayoflife via flickr
The Wonders of Volcanoes Volcano House Cinema – Dramatic and Informative Striking documentaries on eruptions in Iceland in amazing Emmy nominated footages. Shows every hour on the hour in English, from 09.00 – 22.00. German and French version upon request.
Volcano House Café – Healthy and Volcanic The Volcano House Café presents the only volcanic menu in Iceland. Breakfast Lunch Meal of the day Light meals Happy Hour Deserts Volcanic Coffee.
DYNAMO REYKJAVÍK
Geological Exhibition, free entrance Tourist information and Booking Service Volcano House Boutique Open from 9.00 – 22/23,00 Films are shown every hour on the hour!
Volcano House I Tryggvagata 11 I Tel. 555 1900 www.volcanohouse.is I info@volcanohouse.is
EXPERIENCE WHAT’S ON
THE REYKJAVIK COFFEE EXPERIENCE Iceland may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of coffee, but Icelanders are actually big coffee drinkers. You will find plenty of small coffee shops or cafés on nearly every street corner in downtown Reykjavík. We know of at least five places where you will get great coffee.
CAFÉ PARÍS Café Paris is one of Reykjavik city’s most beloved restaurants and cafés, and has been for twenty years. It’s ideally situated by Austurvöllur square, where Icelanders go to celebrate the sun in the summertime. Inside Café Paris, you’ll be able to relax in a calm and casual atmosphere while enjoying a warm cup of coffee. They have a wide selection of coffee drinks but their Frappuccino “à la Café Paris” deserves the highest praise. You can’t go wrong with any of their cakes if you’re in the mood for a luxurious refreshment as well.
TÍU DROPAR One of Reykjavik‘s oldest cafés, located in a hidden basement on Laugavegur that is frequented by avid loungers, coffee addicts, happy families and hungry travelers. There’s nothing pretentious about it, it’s just a lovely old-fashioned house with homelike atmosphere and generous coffee refills. If you want to try something really Icelandic with your coffee you should order flatkökur, rye pancakes with sliced smoked lamb, or pönnukökur, traditional Icelandic pancakes with sugar, or with jam and whipped cream.
KAFFISMIÐJA ÍSLANDS
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A small and intimate coffee shop in the city center where you’ll find first class coffee and refreshment. Their coffee is roasted in their own roasteries by their own roasting masters. When you walk in you’ll notice their beautiful La Marzocco espresso machine and two Mazzer grinders, and realize that coffee at Kaffismiðjan is serious business. If you like your coffee, which you probably will, you can purchase whole beans in 300 gram bags or have them custom grinded for your coffee maker.
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KAFFIFÉLAGIÐ It may be the smallest coffee shop in the country but it’s definitely one of the most popular ones too. Kaffifélagið offers a wide selection of coffee drinks made from Italian espresso beans that are grown in Ottolina, Milan. If you want to awaken your senses and make your mouth to foam with delight and deliciousness, Kaffifélagið is where you should go. The place is usually filled with busy locals getting their take-away coffee. You can also stock up on coffee beans, DVD’s and Icelandic music while you’re there.
SÓLON If you’re looking for the perfect place to sit down, order a cup of coffee and watch people go on with their daily lives outside the window, Café Sólon is the place for you. The oversized artwork and sleek furniture definitely add to its appeal. Café Sólon is located in an old beautiful building in the city center with big windows and a lot of history. Their aromatic coffee will send any coffee lover over the edge, and it will taste even better if it’s accompanied by their delicious vegetable pie.
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EXPERIENCE WHAT’S ON
A VERY BRIEF HISTORY OF ICELAND 16-18 MILLION BC: THE FORMATION OF ICELAND. Volcanic eruptions form the landmass known as Iceland. 871 AD: THE SETTLEMENT OF ICELAND. Ingólfur Arnarson killed a man in Norway and fled to Iceland. 930 AD: PARLIAMENT ESTABLISHED. Iceland is arguably the oldest still extant democracy in the world. 1000 AD: CONVERSION TO CHRISTIANITY, DISCOVERY OF AMERICA. Parliament decided everyone would be christian or at least pretend to be. Leif “the Lucky” Ericson got lost and found America, didn’t like it and went home. 1262 AD: ICELAND SUBMITS TO NORWAY. Civil war between powerful clans resulted in making peace by submitting to Norway. Later, Iceland somehow wound up under Danish rule. We are more than a little confused about it.
1550 AD: CIVIL WAR AND LUTHERANISM. The violent conflict between Catholics and Lutherans ended with the beheading of bishop Jón Arason. 1602: MONOPOLY (NOT THE FUN KIND). The king of Denmark decided Icelanders would only trade with particular Danes, resulting in abject poverty until the monopoly was abolished in 1786. THE 1750S: THE ENLIGHTENMENT AND THE BIRTH OF REYKJAVÍK. Industrialisation and modernisation started when “Sheriff” Skúli Magnússon started wool manufacturing in Aðalstræti 10. 1944 AD: INDEPENDENCE. Iceland declared independence while Denmark was too busy being invaded by Germany to protest.
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20TH CENTURY: THE WORLD WARS AND MODERNIZATION. The turn of the century saw the first motor boat and car. The world wars and American occupation resulted in the first serious urbanisation and foreign cultural influence. 1955 AD: NOBEL PRIZE. Halldór Laxness was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. 1980 AD: FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT. The world’s first democratically elected female head of state, Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, took office. 2008 AD: CRASH AND MIRACULOUS RECOVERY. Iceland’s banking system went spectacularly bankrupt. Since then, things are picking up surprisingly well, but they’re still tough. 2009 AD: FIRST OPENLY GAY PRIME MINISTER. The world’s first openly lesbian head of government, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, took office.
EXPERIENCE WHAT’S ON
T H E R E Y K J AV I K Reykjavík is filled with things to do, places to go and stuff to see but some are just a little bit more important than others.
HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA
Hallgrímskirkja church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. The tower of the church is among the city’s highest buildings and offers a fantastic view of the city for the small price of 700ISK for adults, 100ISK for children. Hallgrímskirkja is the largest church- and the sixth tallest architectural structure in Iceland. It’s named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Petursson, author of the Passion Hymns. The architect who designed it, Guðjón Samúelsson is said to have designed it to resemble the basalt lava flows of Iceland’s landscape.
PERLAN
Standing at 25 metres high, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings and although it was opened to the public in 1991 it still makes a stand out piece of architecture for its modern construction. Up on the fourth level there is a 360 degree viewing platform where you can get the best panoramic views of Reykjavík and when the sun sets it’s a spectacular spot for the northern lights. You can also dine at the Perlan restaurant that slowly rotates so you get to see the whole city without even having to turn your head. We strongly recommend a visit to The Saga Museum while you’re there.
TJÖRNIN
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People go to the pond to feed the birds and enjoy one of the most amazing views that Reykjavík has to offer. There isn’t a better place in the city to enjoy a beautiful sunset and you can watch or feed a huge variety of birdlife that calls the lake home while you’re at it. When the lake freezes over in winter, hot geothermal waters are pumped in to defrost an area for the birds while those who can handle the cold keep warm from the romantic atmosphere and take to the ice on skates.
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AUSTURVÖLLUR
When the sun is shining and the air is hot, Austurvöllur is the place to be no matter who you are. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants on Vallarstræti and Pósthússtræti, this public square is a wildly popular spot for locals to dine outside, soak up some sunshine or recline in the grass with picnics. With its close proximity to the Parliament of Iceland building, Austurvöllur has contrastingly also been the gathering place for political protests. At the center of it all stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the renowned figure who led Iceland to independence.
KOLAPORTIÐ
Whether you want to sample dried fish and fermented shark, purchase a bag of Icelandic candy or browse through thrifted clothing, Kolaportið should be the destination of your choice. Kolaportið is an indoor flea market that is open during the weekend between 11am-5pm. The atmosphere is very unique and the old industrial building is usually filled with people hunting for books or antiques, grocery shopping at the food court, selling their old garments, buying music and DVD’s or digging through piles of stuff in search of hidden treasures. We recommend bringing cash, as the majority of stalls don‘t accept cards.
HARPA
The whole 28.000 square meters of Harpa stand at the edge of the Reykjavik Harbour with Iceland‘s biggest concert hall suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events, conference centre with meeting facilities and in-house catering and fine restaurants. Harpa also occasionally hosts promotions, plays, and public events. It‘s open to everyone, always, and you should definitely visit Harpa, whether it‘s for a show, to buy souvenirs, a concert or a lovely dinner in one of the fabulous restaurants. Harpa was designed by a Danish firm in co-operation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist, and opened to the public in 2011.
THE OLD HARBOR
The descriptive name comes from the fact that it‘s the first lasting harbor in Reykjavik. The most visited area is the eastern pier where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals and guided tours in Reykjavík. You will find numerous whale watching companies willing to take you out to sea on unforgettable excursions. The area is filled with excellent restaurants (sushi and other seafood, tapas, burgers, etc.) and coffee houses. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty and there’s plenty of interesting activities to check out.
EXPERIENCE
SIGHT EXPERIENCE
THE SUN VOYAGER
A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to the Reykjavík center. The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and an ode to the sun. It serves as reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland. An ideal opportunity to see Sólfarið at its best is when the sun is setting, at whatever time that may be. It should be every photographer’s dream to capture the amazing view.
CITY HALL
LAUGARDALSLAUG
Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Iceland’s big thing is swimming pools.. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, located in Laugardalur Valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, outdoor children’s pool and paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, steam bath, gym and mini golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day, or a cold one for that matter. Right outside you will find a hot dog stand where you can buy traditional Icelandic hot dog.
Head over to page 32 for the Reykjavik Museum Walk.
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With an impressive, modern design, the building sits right on the northern shore of Lake Tjörnin. It’s not only offices for the mayor and city’s excutive officials, but is also open to visitors, providing internet access, an information desk, exhibition halls and a cafe. Café Öndin boasts huge glass windows so you can sit back and admire the water, bird life, nature and city surrounds. Go to the galleries to admire one of the steady streams of new and exciting exhibitions always coming through. The three dimensional map of Iceland is always a favourite with visitors to the country.
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THE ICELANDIC
Although beer and ale have been brewed in Iceland for a long time, the growth in recent years has been amazing. In just a few years, we‘ve seen many great breweries emerge, filled with ambition and ingenuity. There is one thing they all have in common though, the Icelandic water; renowned for its purity and quality. Here you can read up on some of our favorite beers, all of whom you‘ll find in Reykjaviks pubs and bars.
VÍKING CLASSIC Víking Classic is a Vienna style beer with golden amber colour and taste of roasted malt. It has a good body and medium bitterness with balancing sweetness and a hint of caramel. This Classic type of beer has become one of the best sellers on draught in Iceland in one year. Víking Classic is available in draught, bottles and cans and is part of the Víking beer family which is the most popular beer brand in Iceland.
BRÍÓ The first beer produced by Borg Brugghús, Bríó is a pilsner, however unlike what most people might think, being a pilsner doesn‘t mean it‘s any less of a beer. The name comes from the city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic. This style of brewing first emerged in the middle of the 19th century and immediately became so popular that the majority of beer drunk today is in some way derived from the original pilsner. Brío uses German hops, giving a very distinctive taste and a sweet aroma. Along with the hops, it uses Pilsen malt and under-fermentation yeast. Brío, which has won many awards and prizes over the years, was originally brewed as the House Beer for Ölstofan (see pg. 12) and is available in liquor stores around the country as well as most bars in town.
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KALDI
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The Brewery on Árskógssandur was the first microbrewery that opened in Iceland, back in 2006. Their first product, Kaldi, definitely paved the way for the rest of them. The regular Kaldi is a pure pilsner, with all the ingredients, except the Icelandic water, coming from the Czech Republic. Even their Brewmaster is Czech! Kaldi is a very mild and comfortable pilsner, with 5% ABV. You can detect a hint of sweetness in it. Kaldi is the most sold bottled beer in Iceland today and has been tremendously well received. You can get Kaldi in the liquor stores in bottles, as well as on draught at MicroBar.
KALDI DARK Most Icelanders are a bit afraid of dark beers, at least until they taste Kaldi Dark. A dark pilsner, it‘s not that much different from the regular Kaldi, as the main difference is the use of burnt malt, which provides the beautiful, distinctive dark color. Kaldi Dark is unpasteurized with no added sugar or preservatives. As mentioned – the Kaldi beers are brewed by Czech traditions, dated from 1842. Kaldi Dark is brewed using 3 different types of Czech hops. You can get Kaldi Dark in all liquor stores as well as in MicroBar on draught.
EINSTÖK TOASTED PORTER With clear notes of toffee and dark chocolate, this Porter is roasty and rich, offering a medium body that is robust, yet smooth on the palate. Toasted and chocolate malts give it a sinister black color, but its easy-to-drink taste will have you believing that there’s no need to be afraid of the dark anymore.
EXPERIENCE
BEER EXPERIENCE
ÚLFUR The first Icelandic IPA (India Pale Ale) on the market. Úlfur IPA is in the same caliber as the best produced on the West Coast of the Unites States and probably comes to many Icelanders as a surprise regarding flavor and aroma. The aroma is of fresh citrus fruits, especially grapefruit, which can also be found in the flavor and a strong bitterness makes you crave another sip. Only American hops are used in the beer and hops are added when boiled and after fermentation, a so called “dry hopping” technique. Icelanders took to the beer immediately and it helped clear the way for smaller breweries to try new things.
LAVA
GÆÐINGUR PALE ALE The Pale Ale from Gæðingur is a mixture of American and British Pale Ale. It’s ABV is quite low, at 4,5%, but it has the body of a much bigger beer. Bitterness and hops describe it aptly. Gæðingur is the latest addition to the Icelandic Microbrewery scene, founded in 2010. Gæðingur Pale Ale is unfiltered, so it has some residue at the bottom of the bottle. The Pale Ale is the beer that cemented Gæðingur as a quality Microbrewery and is available at most liquor stores, and as with many of the other beers mentioned, on draught in MicroBar
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This beer is unique in the Icelandic beer scene and quite possibly globally as well. Lava is a pitch black Ale, with its colour coming from dark-roasted mat, burnt in a similar way as coffee beans. The Brewmasters goal was to create a distinctive beer. Lava is described as being like a good wine – improving with age, reaching optimal quality after 3 years of storage in a cold place. Lava is a very smoked Imperial Stout, and considered by beer connoisseurs as one of the best Icelandic beers. It has received many international awards, including a gold medal at the “United States Open Beer Championship” – where it competed against over 1650 beers. Lava is available at the bigger liquor stores as well as exclusively on draught at MicroBar.
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WHAT’S ON
THE REYKJAVIK MUSEUM WALK Reykjavik is rich with culture and history which can be experienced in the many museums that our city has to offer. To make life easier for you, here is a proposed Museum Walk that covers the best bits of downtown Reykjavik, while within a walking distance. 1
VOLCANO HOUSE
The museum gives visitors an idea of the real life in Iceland, where volcanoes and earthquakes are a constant threat. Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes occur daily and Icelandic nature is in a state of constant flux. Volcano House lets you experience the world of Icelanders by coming as close as possible to experiencing an eruption or earthquake for yourself. They also have an in-house cinema where they offer two back-to-back documentaries on historical volcanic eruptions.
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THE REYKJAVÍK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY
The museum’s main objective is to present both historical and contemporary photography in an artistic, social and cultural context, as well as nurture public and scholarly interest in photography and its culture. The collection’s themes are diverse, you can find family photograpshs, photos from portrait studios, industrial- and advertising photographs, press photography, landscape photographs and more.
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THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND
The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at The National Museum of Iceland that was established on the 24th of February in 1863. The aim of the museum is to increase and relay knowledge of Icelandic cultural heritage from the beginning until now. At the museum you will find objects that provide insight into Icelandic cultural history and displays from different eras.
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THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND
The principal art museum of Iceland, established in 1884. Its art collection consists mainly of 19th and 20th century art works. 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, as well as there is a considerable emphasis laid on showing Icelandic art in context with international art.
REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM
Hafnarhús serves as the museum’s institute of contemporary art, where n ew d eve l o p m e n t s i n art are explored through diverse exhibitions of Icelandic and international artists. An exhibition of paintings by well known pop artist Erró is a permanent feature. You’ll really like the restaurant inside that has a beautiful view over the harbour. Don’t forget to stop by the Hafnarhús shop for postcards, art posters and books published by the museum.
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THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION
Archaeological remains were excavated in Aðalstræti in 2001, which turned out to be the oldest relics of human habitation in Reykjavík. The relics are now preserved at their original location as the focal point of the Settlement Exhibition. The construction of Viking Age buildings is explained using multimedia technology and computer technology is used to give an impression of what life was like in the hall.
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The Reykjavík Welcome Card offers great value for money by giving you FREE ADMISSION to all of Reykjavík’s thermal pools and museums, with unlimited travel on Reykjavík buses, free ferry rides to Videy Island and DISCOUNTS at selected shops and restaurants. The card is available for 24, 48 and 72 hours. For more information about the Reykjavík Welcome Card visit www.visitreykjavik.is. Connect with culture!
Enjoy the nature! Take a dip in our thermal pools!
See the Sights!
The Official Tourist Information Centre in Reykjavík Adalstraeti 2 101 Reykjavík Tel +354 590 1550 info@visitreykjavik.is www.visitreykjavik.is
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OPENING HOURS: 12 A.M. - 7 P.M. FRIDAYS 12 A.M. - 6 P.M. WEEKENDS 1 P.M. - 5 P.M.
CONTEMPORARY LANDSCAPE Until January 12th.
FROM A DIFFERENT ANGLE...
THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND OPENING HOURS: 11 A.M. - 5 P.M. CLOSED MONDAYS
FROM A DIFFERENT ANGLE... Photography by Icelandic women 1872 - 2013 From January 25th
The exhibition includes about 2,000 objects, dating from the Settlement Age to the present, as well as about 1,000 photographs from the 20th century. It 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.
These factors and others feature in Contemporary Landscape; interwoven in such a way that man and nature are not opposites in landscape photography, as they once were. Man is no longer a visitor in the landscape: he is invited in. Man is part of nature, and his works are an extension of nature, as British artist Andy Goldsworthy has observed.
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The work of Icelandic women photographers from the latter half of the 19th century until the present day will be shown at two simultaneous exhibitions: one in the National Museum‘s photography gallery, the other at the Reykjavík Museum of Photography. The exhibitions and the accompanying catalogue are based on research carried out by both museums on photography by Icelandic women, and a survey of extant examples of their work in Icelandic collections.
the Settlement to the present day. The aim is to cast light on the Icelanders’ past by placing the cultural heritage preserved by the National Museum in a historical context, guided by the question: What makes a nation?
Most of the photographs in the exhibition illustrate changing ideas. Weather, perceptions of time and space, and man in nature are the starting points, in combination with more traditional approaches, creating a fresh and diverse vision. The photographers turn their lenses on anything between heaven and earth – literally: the space between something and nothing in the landscape; memories and sensations; tourists in Icelandic nature; the feminine in the landscape; urban nature; landscape viewed through a car window, on a tour around Iceland.
THE MAKING OF A NATION - HERITAGE AND HISTORY IN ICELAND The exhibition is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from
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REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY
CONTEMPORARY LANDSCAPE
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EVENT CALENDAR
ASÍ ART MUSEUM OPENING HOURS: 1 P.M. - 5 P.M. CLOSED MONDAYS
TUMI MAGNÚSSON AND MICHAEL MØRK - ON SITE Tumi Magnússon and Michael Mørk both work with threedimensional aspects in the two-dimensional. They work individually with photography, painting and video involving spacious aspects as an important part of the work. The art of Michael i Mørk is often based in the rational functions of the homes spacious constructions, such as kitchen modules and other everyday objects. The works involve a time constraint by merging movement to a part of it. Tumi Magnússon´s works always have a spacious base being presented against the two-dimensional agents but they reach three-dimensional expression through scale changes and installation in space. He uses everyday objects as the basis for its expression.
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND OPENING HOURS: 11 A.M. - 5 P.M. CLOSED MONDAYS
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CREATIONS - KRISTÍN GUNNLAUGSDÓTTIR
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Gunnlaugsdóttir’s art is its daring, erotic feature represented in a mediaeval, religious way with the help of textile and gilded support, related to sacred art of the Gothic era. Her consummate draughtsmanship and exquisite handling of materials is in stark contrast to the bold, even shocking way in which she presents her works.
TREASURES - BEASTS IN CAGES
Until January 19th. The striking aspect of Kristín
The National Gallery of Iceland continues to present the richness of its collection. Both its legacy from the nineteenth century and its more recent acquisitions are displayed in various rooms of the museum.
These treasures give a good insight into the variety of Icelandic art in modern and contemporary periods and bear witness to its thriving and dynamic practice at every level of visual arts. In addition a glimpse of NGI’s collection of works by foreign artists will be presented, particularly prints by Edvard Munch, whose 150th anniversary will be celebrated on December 12th 2013.
OPENING HOURS: 10 A.M. - 5 P.M. THURSDAYS 10 A.M. - 9 P.M.
ZILVINAS KEMPINAS: FOUNTAINS Fountains is a large sitespecific installation. It is a landscape of-sort with pools of magnetic tape waves that are driven by heavy-duty industrial fans. Zilvinas Kempinas (b. 1969, Lithuania) has been using magnetic tapes from VHS cassettes to create works that apparently deny the original functions of the medium, but his works continue to stir up various levels of nostalgias in cultures that are familiar with the tape format, toward a replaced technology. Sleek and shiny, the black tape has been removed from its casing to become an object to be
experienced in a physical space. The exhibition is a part of the Cultural Program of the Lithuanian Presidency of the Council of the European Union and supported by The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Lithuania.
ERRÓ: THE WORLD TODAY This exhibition shows Erró´s gifts to Reykjavík Art Museum in recent years. The works add to the huge collection he has presented to the Museum over the years. His latest gift comprises a multitude of works – collages, oils, watercolours and enamels – which he has made over the past twelve years. The works represent a new period in the artist’s career, during which he has created his own visual world using new approaches and themes. These latest works bear witness to the artist’s joiede-vivre and creativity in juxta-
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REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS
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posing images from around the world.
TOMAS MARTIŠAUSKIS: CREATURE Until January 12th. Creature is a site specific installation by Lithuanian artist Tomas Martišauskis (b. 1977), which is a postmodern take on the relationship between sculptural matter and the space. Using advanced technologies he translates a specific sculptural object into various mediums thus expanding the notion of traditional sculpture. Even though the primary object will not be exhibited, its 3D, video and audio renditions become what the artist describes as “authentic copies”. Paradoxical relationship between authenticity and a copy enables to see different aspects of the object: its interior and exterior, its sound, plasticity in animation and in the structural drawing.
ICELANDIC VIDEO ART FROM 1975 – 1990 Until January 5th.
FOUNTAINS
A renowned show by Korean artist Nam June Paik in 1963 at a gallery in Wuppertal, Germany, is generally regarded as heralding the birth of video art. On TV screens he displayed distorted TV images; the exhibition was a first, because the artist turned his attention to the electronic signal that makes up a TV image. The aim of the exhibition is to focus on the 1980s, and the crucial place
KATRÍN SIGURÐARDÓTTIR: FOUNDATION From January 24th. Iceland’s contribution to the Venice Biennale – La Biennale de Venezia – in 2013, by Katrín Sigurðardóttir, will open at the Reykjavík Art Museum’s Hafnarhús on January 24th, 2014. The work, Foundation, is a large-scale installation comprising a raised floor which extends beyond the walls of the exhibition space. Hand-made tiles form intricate patterns in the Baroque style on the surface and visitors can step up onto the platform and walk on it. In her work Katrín often presents scale-altered interpretations of real or imaginary places, which take the viewer by surprise.
FOUNDATION
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of that decade in the history of Icelandic video art. The exhibition also explores the circumstances of the artists, and asks questions about the preservation of works of video art, and how works of that period should be shown.
REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN OPENING HOURS: 10 A.M. - 5 P.M.
ANNA HALLIN: INTERPLAY Until January 5th. “I’VE NEVER SEEN FIGURATIVE ELECTRICITY”
kind of interplay between her own works and the sculptures of Ásmundur Sveinsson, while also examining Ásmundur’s links with Sweden and the work of Carl Milles, who was Ásmundur’s tutor for several years. The exhibition includes sculptures by Anna, as well as drawings and an installation, which interact with the building that houses the Ásmundur Sveinsson Museum, and a selection of his works from the 1930s and 40s.
“I’VE NEVER SEEN FIGURATIVE ELECTRICITY” From January 18th. The exhibition displays works by Icelandic sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982) along with new works by nine Icelandic contemporary artists. By highlighting abstract works from the later period of his career, the exhibition seeks to shed light on similarities found in works of contemporary art today.
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In her exhibition Interplay at the Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum, SwedishIcelandic artist Anna Hallin explores the threads that form so many connections in the history of art, between different countries, cultures and periods, and between one artist and another. In this exhibition Anna works with a
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ALEXANDER RODCHENKO
REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM – KJARVALSSTAÐIR OPENING HOURS: 10 A.M. - 5 P.M.
ALEXANDER RODCHENKO: REVOLUTION IN PHOTOGRAPHY
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Until January 12th.
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A retrospective of the photographs of Rodchenko, one of the leading Russian artists of the first half of the 20th century. The exhibition is from the collection of Moscow House of Photography. The art of Rodchenko and other avant-garde Russian artists of the time is indissolubly connected with the rapidlychanging society of the time, industrialisation and the Russian Revolution. Rodchenko was one of the key figures in a group of radical artists in Moscow, who called themselves Constructivists, and saw art as a tool to serve the interests of society and progress.
KJARVAL COMPLETE 2 – THE BANKS‘ COLLECTIONS Until January 26th. Over the years Icelandic banks have purchased and conserved many works by Icelandic artists, and they own large collections of art works by Jóhannes S. Kjarval, one of Iceland’s leading artists of the 20th century. The paintings normally hang in meeting
rooms and public halls of bank branches all over Iceland, but this exhibition will provide an unprecedented opportunity to see the banks‘ entire Kjarval collections in one place. These include many masterpieces never before seen publically exhibitions. The works are hung in the spirit of the salon, covering the walls of the galleries from floor to ceiling.
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COORDINATES A solo exhibition by Icelandic artist Haraldur Jónsson. The exhibition title, C O O R D I N A T E S, relates to the main themes of the exhibition. Coordinates are indicators of location or placement as well as movement through space. The word has reference to personal information, identity, code and modern abbreviations as well as referring to borders and boundaries, limitations and openings.
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abroad; illustrated books and designed advertisements; and made a large number of murals for public buildings, working with her husband Gestur Þorgrímsson (19202003). In addition to objects and pictures from such projects, the exhibition also includes paintings by Rúna from all stages of her career; paintings on tiles and on handmade Japanese paper.
VOLCANO HOUSE
VOLCANO HOUSE OPENING HOURS: 9 A.M. - 9 P.M.
WONDERS OF VOLCANOES
HAFNARBORG OPENING HOURS: 12 A.M. - 5 P.M. THURSDAYS 12 A.M. - 9 P.M. CLOSED TUESDAYS
RÚNA - BESIDE THE DEEP WATERS Until January 5th. An exhibition focusing on the long and diverse career of Icelandic artist Rúna, Sigrún Guðjónsdóttir (b. 1926). The exhibition displays examples from Rúna‘s diverse artistic career, spanning both design and free visual art. She has been active in many fields: she was a pioneer of pottery in Iceland; has collaborated with leading design companies
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From the small island Vest’-mannaeyjar, watch the awesome power of red-hot lava, seemingly irresistible as it moves in slow motion, swallowing and crushing everything in its path. Like a sci-fi monster, you see it start to engulf a thriving community and the impending disaster as it edges to the harbour to destroy the only safe haven for the fishing fleet. Every boat is pressed into service to ferry the inhabitants to safety as they watch more of their lives disappear. Then, the 2010 eruption in Eyjafjallajökull that covered farms and villages in a deep layer of ash and an almost impenetrable fog,
threatening, once again, the livelihoods of hard-working communities. A massive flood sweeps down the mountain, putting bridges along the main road linking the southern towns and villages at risk.
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RECURRING IN JANUARY Constructing Europe: 25 Years of Architecture This exhibition shows both the results of the 2013 Prize as well as works that have been selected by the juries over the years, composing a timeline of the development of European architecture during the last quarter of a century. From January 1st to the 16th at 17:00.
RAINBOW REYKJAVIK Rainbow Reykjavik is Iceland’s LBGT (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and yransgender) festival which is organised by the Pink Iceland Office and LGBT Centre. From January 30th to Februrary 2nd.
THURSDAY, JAN 2ND HARPA, KALDALÓN Pearls of Icelandic Song - New Year’s Concerts
FRIDAY, JAN 3RD HARPA, KALDALÓN Pearls of Icelandic Song - New Year’s Concerts
THURSDAY, JAN 9TH HARPA, ELDBORG Viennese favourites - The Iceland
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Symphony Orchestra
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CHECK OUT OUR MUSEUM WALK ARTICLE ON PAGE 20!
HARPA
FRIDAY, JAN 1OTH HARPA, ELDBORG Viennese favourites - The Iceland Symphony Orchestra
SATURDAY, JAN 11TH
FRIDAY, JAN 24TH
HARPA, ELDBORG
HARPA, ELDBORG
Viennese favourites - The Iceland Symphony Orchestra
Víkingur plays Brahms- The
THURSDAY, JAN 16TH HARPA, ELDBORG Young Soloists - The Iceland Symphony Orchestra
FRIDAY, JAN 17TH HARPA, NORÐURLJÓS A musical outburst in Harpa with Vocal Project
SATURDAY, JAN 18TH LAUGARASVEGUR 29 Jon Thormodsson, author of Peace and War: Niagara of Quotations, talks in his home on peace and war and answers questions. From 17 to 18:15. Free admission. Bus 14 to Sundlaugavegur/Laugarasvegur. Phone 568 7250.
SUNDAY, JAN 19TH HARPA, NORÐURLJÓS The Chamber Music Society #4
THURSDAY, JAN 23RD HARPA, ELDBORG Víkingur plays Brahms- The Iceland Symphony Orchestra
Viking feast Viking hotel Viking restaurants Viking live entertainment Viking Souveniers For booking and further information: Tel.: 565-1213 www.vikingvillage.is vikings@vikingvillage.is Strandgata 55 Hafnarfjordur
Iceland Symphony Orchestra
SUNDAY, JAN 26TH HARPA, KALDALÓN Young Voices - Aðalsteinn Már Ólafsson
TUESDAY, JAN 28TH HARPA, ELDBORG The Etudes by Philip Glass
HARPA, NORÐURLJÓS The Sound of Brass Through Harpa #3
THURSDAY, JAN 30TH HARPA, SILFURBERG RVMusic–PyR Festival 2014: Festival Pass RVM-PyR Festival - Opening concert
HARPA, ELDBORG Dark Music Days - The Iceland Symphony Orchestra
FRIDAY, JAN 31ST HARPA, SILFURBERG Ryoichi Kurokawa - syn_
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2014
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WHAT’S ON.IS
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WHAT’S ON IN ICELAND ALL THE INFORMATION ON EVERYTHING THAT’S HAPPENING IN ICELAND So you‘ve arrived in Iceland, your warm clothes in your bag, high hopes and a lot of excitement. Great! But now what? There are about a million incredibly cool things to do in Iceland, so it can definitely be a daunting task to organize a stay here. Luckily – you‘ve got a hawk in a corner.
We’re pretty happy about the website to be honest. There are still tweaks and modifications to be made – but we’re working on it, trying to improve the site by the day, adding interesting content and such. We’d of course welcome all feedback should you have any, reaching us at whatson@whatson.is is probably your best bet.
A HAWK IN A CORNER REALLY DOESN‘T MAKE SENSE TO ME.
WHAT CAN I FIND ON YOUR WHATSON.IS?
Well – it would make sense, if you‘d have read the FAQ‘s on WhatsOn.is. They‘re pretty awesome actually, though the author allegedly goes overboard at times in his borderline desperate attempts at humour. So having a hawk in one’s corner is a good thing. It‘s basically an ally, often times an unexpected ally, but one you can rely on. Your hawk will come to your aid when you most need it. Just like the guys at What‘s On in Iceland do!
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SO...WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT AGAIN?
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What‘s On in Iceland! Or Reykjavik! It‘s two different things, but still basically the same. You see, What‘s On in Reykjavik is the magazine you‘re currently holding. We‘re mighty proud of it and have really put a lot of effort into doing it the best we can. This magazine is now in its 30th running year of publication, making it one of the most, if not the oldest and most established tourist publications in Iceland. Now, any respectable magazine ought to have a website that goes along with it right? At least we feel so. That‘s why we decided to completely overhaul our old website, in order to bring you the new and improved whatson. is. There, we try to cater to the whole of Iceland, by the name What’s On in Iceland. It’s not a big difference obviously, but we feel the distinction important nonetheless.
Whatson.is is the online platform for this magazine; so as a result, you’ll find the majority of the content pieces from it there. The website offers articles from our contributing writers, with more added frequently, where we have the chance of going more in-depth and in more detail than we can in the magazine, as we’re not restrained by print any more. We’re also working on constructing the most complete section of FAQ’s and Practical Information on Iceland the world has ever seen. It’s a daunting and ambitious task, fuelled and powered by the ever flowing fountain that is the curiosity of our visitors. As such – please feel free to ask us whatever you want to know about Iceland, Icelanders or life in Iceland, and we’ll a) answer you and b) put the answer on the website! We decided to share some of our favourite FAQ’s in the pages to come – so check it out and as always, let us know how you like it. Online you’ll also find our older issues of course, as well as our restaurant, nightlife and shopping recommendations along with the backbone of our existence, the event calendar. However, there’s one thing in particular we’re quite excited about. You see, we’ve teamed up with some of the leading tour operators in Iceland. Like…the best of the best, in order to offer you guys the option to book your tours and activities right on our website.
Enjoy the freedom of riding ﾃ拘HESTAR offers horseback riding tours through the spectacular Icelandic landscape. Whether you join our tours into the wilderness of the remote highlands, through the lush countryside or, all year round, for a short ride from our Riding Centre near Reykjavik, riding with ﾃ行hestar is a great experience. For over 30 years ﾃ行hestar has given people an opportunity to ride the Icelandic horse, the most versatile gait horse in the world. Horses are our partners and our passion.
For further information check our websites www.ishestar.is and www.ihtravel.is, call +354 555 7000 or be our friend on Facebook. ﾃ行hestar is the only Icelandic riding tour operator with an EarthCheck certificate. We are a part of nature. We care about nature.
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That means that you don’t have to go searching all over the place for things to do while you’re here, as whatson.is (along with this magazine!) can be your one-stop shop, for everything from food and drink, to events, to tours, activities and excursions! Want a good restaurant, a whale watching trip under the northern lights followed by a great pub to relax after a long day? Well! We got it! Like I said, this is something we’re very excited about and we’ve spent
Enjoy an amazing tour through a landscape of extreme contrasts, full of history and geology. Our day begins in Þingvellir National Park, the site of the ancient Viking parliament dating back to the 10th century. From there we head into the highlands, through the barren mountain pass of Kaldidalur to the Langjökull for an unforgettable discovery of this enormous glacier, before exploring one of Iceland‘s (biggest and) most spectacular lava caves (in Hallmundarhraun).
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SOME OF THE TOURS AND ACTIVITIES WE OFFER
ESSENTIAL ICELAND
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a considerable time in selecting the right operators to work with and making sure everything is set up right.
PEARL TOUR - GOLDEN CIRCLE The tour allows visitors to get in touch with some of Iceland’s most famous and exciting natural phenomena. Our first stop is at Þingvellir, one of Iceland’s most significant historical sites. From there, we head along mountain tracks to Geysir hot spring area and Gullfoss waterfall. Next we kick the action into higher gear to get even closer to Iceland’s nature and go for a snowmobiling tour at the Langjökull area, Iceland’s second largest glacier.
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MOUNTAIN SAFARI
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A great quad bike/ATV tour in the vicinity of Reykjavik. An enjoyable adventure tour only 15 minutes from most hotels in Reykjavik, fun for the whole family. The tour is perfect for beginners and anyone who wants to experience something new and different while enjoying the splendid outdoors. This tour is a great way to explore the beautiful back country of Reykjavik in a thrilling, yet safe way.
Departure from Reykjavík, we take you on a mystery-filled tour in a super jeep. A tour spiced with excitement and surprises, away from the city lights and into the barren landscape in the outskirts of Reykjavík in search of the elusive Northern Lights. On a clear night and with a little luck we can see the lights swirl around in dramatic shapes across the night sky – truly an amazing sight.
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All the games and all the action on 5 Big HD Screens.
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ART & CULTURE Find more recommendations on whatson.is
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REYKJAVIK CITY LIBRARY FREE ENTRY Looking for a place to hang out, browse the internet, get access to Wi-Fi or meet the Reykjavik locals? Then Reykjavik City Library is the perfect place to visit. Have a seat and dip into the latest magazine or relax while checking out their great selection of books. Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6100 |borgarbokasafn.is Hours: Mon-Thu 10-19, Fri 11-18, Sat & Sun 13-17
HAFNARBORG FREE ENTRY Hafnarborg has a collection of Icelandic art and regular exhibitions presenting leading Icelandic and international artists. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Around exhibitions are workshops and guided tours. Strandgata 34, Hafnarfjörður 585-5790 | www.hafnarborg.is Hours: Daily 12-17, Thu 12-21, Closed Tue
REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY FREE ENTRY The only independent museum of photography in Iceland. The aim of the museum is to shape a unique vision and to be leading in its field. The museum preserves various collections from professional and amateur photographers. Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6390 | www.photomuseum.is Hours: Mon-Thu 12-19, Fri 12-18, Sat & Sun 13-17
SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM
MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART
THE EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM
A museum that Icelandic sculptor Sigurjón Ólafsson’s wife founded as a tribute to his life and work in 1984. She had his studio in L a u g a r n e s co nve r te d to a n exhibition space to house his collection of works, including sculptures, sketches, drawings and biographical material.
Its objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts from 1900 to the present day. This young museum, the only one of its kind in Iceland, holds regular exhibitions of Icelandic and international design during the year. Exhibitions from the museum‘s own collection are regularly held.
A museum with indoor and outdoor exhibitions dedicated to the work of Einar Jónsson, Iceland’s first modern sculptor (1874-1954). The museum was built in the early 1900’s when Einar Jónsson offered all of his works as a gift to the Icelandic nation.
Laugarnestangi 70 553-2906 | www.lso.is Hours: Closed in January
THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION Experience Viking-Age Reykjavik at the new Settlement Exhibition. Multimedia techniques bring Reykjavik’s past to life, providing visitors with insights into how people lived in the Viking Age, and what the environment looked like to the first settlers. Aðalstræti 2, Reykjavik 411-6370 | www.reykjavik871.is Hours: Daily 10-17
Garðatorg 1, Garðabær 512-1525 | www.honnunarsafn.is Hours: Daily 12-17, Closed Mon
ÁRBÆJARSAFN Collection of artifacts docu-menting the development of the city of Reykjavik. Prese ntly the museum comprises 27 buildings, built between 1820 and 1907. Árbær, Reykjavik 411-6300 www.reykjavikmuseum.is Hours: Guided tours every day at 13.00 or by appointment.
Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavik 561-3797 | www.lej.is Hours: Sat & Sun 14-17.
THE NUMISMATIC MUSEUM FREE ENTRY A selection from the numismatic collection is on display on the ground floor of the Central Bank’s main building in Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik. Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik 569-9600 www.sedlabanki.is Hours: Mon-Fri 13:30-15:30
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the Blue lagoon Reykjavik Excursions offer great flexibility in Blue Lagoon tours. Flexible
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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). 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). Safe luggage storage at the Blue Lagoon. Storage cost is 3 EUR (500 ISK) per bag.
From KEF Airport to Blue lagoon
From Blue lagoon to KEF Airport
09:15, 12:45, 16:15 & 17:15
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From Reykjavík to Blue lagoon
From Blue lagoon to Reykjavík
09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00 & 18:00
11:15, 12:15, 13:15, 14:15, 15:15, 16:15, 17:15, 18:15, 19:15 & 21:15
BSÍ Bus Terminal 101 Reykjavík +354 580 5400 main@re.is www.flybus.is
EMS 582904
R O
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND
The National Gallery of Iceland has come a long way from its origins. To begin with, the collection consisted of donated artwork, mainly by Danish artists. Today the museum stands at Frikirkjuvegur in central Reykjavik, displaying both Icelandic and International art.
Offers a state-of-the-art exhibitions on the cultural history of Iceland. The permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History of Iceland, gives a comprehensive picture of Iceland’s cultural history through the ages to the present day.
Laufásvegur 12, Reykjavik 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Daily 11-17, Closed Mon
Suðurgata 41, Reykjavik 530-2200 www.nationalmuseum.is Hours: Daily 11-17, Closed Mon.
Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavik 545-1400 | www.thjodmenning.is Hours: Daily 11-17
ASÍ ART MUSEUM
SAGA MUSEUM
FREE ENTRY This museum was founded in 1961 when industrialist and book publisher Ragnar Jónsson donated his personal art collection to the museum, which consisted of paintings by Iceland’s most renowned painters. His wish was to establish an art museum that would bring art to the working class.
From the time of the earliest settlers, history is brought to life in a unique and exciting way. The Saga Museum intimately recreates key moments in Icelandic history, moments that have determined the fate of our people and which give a compelling view into how Icelanders have lived for more than a millenium.
VÍKIN MARITIME MUSEUM
Freyjugata 41, Reykjavik 511-5353 | www.listasafnasi.is Hours: Daily 13-17, Closed Mon
Perlan, Reykjavik 511-1517 | www.sagamuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-18
GERÐARSAFN
THE LIVING ART MUSEUM
GERÐUBERG CULTURAL CENTER
FREE ENTRY The museum is an active exhibition space in central Reykjavik that has organized many exciting exhibitions throughout the years. They put an emphasis on introducing young Icelandic artists, as well as showcasing work done by better known Icelandic and foreign artists.
An all-round cultural centre run by the City of Reykjavik, offering a varied programme of cultural events for people of all ages. Its aim is to be a venue of ambitious and high-quality cultural activities of all types and a place where good ideas and new creative ventures can find expression.
Skúlagata 28, Reykjavik 551-4350 | www.nylo.is Hours: Daily 12-17, Closed Mon
Gerðuberg 3-5, Reykjavik 575-7700 | www.gerduberg.is Hours: Mon-Fri 11-17, Sat & Sun 13-16
Hamraborg 4, Kópavogur 570-0440 | www.gerdarsafn.is Hours: Daily 11-17, Closed Mon
A unique venue dedicated to Icelandic history and cultural heritage. In the building there are facilities for exhibitions, meetings, gatherings, lectures, artistic events, public ceremonies and other occasions. On the ground floor you will find a restaurant and a souvenir shop.
It is impossible to truly get to know Iceland without getting to know its fishing history. The museum’s main exhibitions illustrate the development from rowing boats to modern trawlers and the history of trading vessels and routes and the construction of Reykjavik harbour. Grandagarður 8, Reykjavik 517-9400 | maritimemuseum.is Hours: Daily 11-17.
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F R E E E N T RY D e d i c a t e d t o the memory of the sculptor and stainedglass artist Gerður Helgadóttir. Her works constitute the most important part of t h e m u s e u m ’s co l l e c t i o n . A progressive art museum collecting a n d ex h i b i t i n g m o d e r n a n d contemporary art. It is situated in Kópavogur, a town immediately south of Reykjavik.
THE CULTURE HOUSE
ART & CULTURE
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND
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ART & CULTURE
REYKJAVIK ART GALLERY The Gallery is an exhibition space for showcasing and selling art by working artists in nine spaces. It has been a venue for many exciting exhibitions and the gallery’s goal is to introduce Icelandic art, both to locals and travellers. Skúlagata 30, Reykjavik 564-2012 | reykjavikartgallery.is Hours: Mon-Fri 10-18 & Sun 13-17
GLJÚFRASTEINN LAXNESS MUSEUM
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Halldór Laxness is arguably the most famous Icelandic writer of all time, and the only Icelander to have won a Nobel Prize, which he received for literature in 1955. Gljúfrasteinn was his home until his death, and today it is a museum dedicated to his life and work.
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Gljúfrasteinn, Mosfellsbær 586-8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Closed Mon
REYKJAVIK WALK
NORDIC HOUSE
A virtual simulation of Reykjavík’s history from 1912 to 2013. More of a time machine than a movie theater, the Walk uses four video projectors and 3D motion graphics to take you on a virtual tour through the historical highlights, from the birth of Reykjavík to the modern day in just under 10 minutes.
Iceland maintains strong ties to other Nordic countries, and the center of this cooperation is the Nordic House, designed by acclaimed Finnish architect Alvar Aalto in 1968. The Nordic House is the venue to be if you want to enjoy the best of Icelandic cultural as well as experiencing rich culture of the Nordic countries
Vesturgata 2, Reykjavik reykjavikcenturymuseum.com Hours: 17:30-21:00, book any time for groups of 5+
GALLERY FOLD Iceland’s leading auction house and foremost fine arts dealership. Established in 1990, Gallerí Fold has been in the hands of its current proprietor since 1992. In 1994, they acquired their own premises, where they‘ve enjoyed a period of growth and prosperity. Their 600 m2 building has five exhibition spaces from 30 to 110 m2. Rauðarárstíg 12-14, Reykjavik 551-0400 | www.myndlist.is Hours: Mon-Fri 10-18, Sat 11-14
Sturlugata 5, Reykjavik 551-7030 | www.nordice.is Hours: Daily 12-17, Closed Mon
COLLECTION OF ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON One of the pioneers of Icelandic art and the first Icelander to take up painting professionally. Having died in 1958, he bequeathed all his works, as well as his studio home to the Icelandic nation. Bergstaðastræti 74, Reykjavík 515-9625 Hours: Closed in January
KJARVALSSTAÐIR
ÁSMUNDARSAFN
HAFNARHÚS
Mainly devoted to paintings and sculpture by well established Icelandic and international artists. Kjarvalsstaðir offers a permanent exhibition of key works by one of Iceland’s most beloved landscape painters, Jóhannes S. Kjarval, as well as changing exhibitions that explore various thematic and historical aspects of Icelandic art.
Opened in 1983, the collection is housed in a unique building designed and constructed mostly by the artist himself from 19421950. The original building served Sveinsson as studio and home; behind it he built a crescentshaped structure as a work- and exhibition space.
The Reykjavik Art Museum took possession of its portion of Hafnarhús (Harbour House) in April 2000. Hafnarhús was built in 1932-39 for the offices and warehouses of Reykjavik Harbor and was at that time one of the largest buildings in the country.
Flókagata 24, Reykjavik 517-1290 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17
Sigtún, Reykjavik 553-2155 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17.
Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavik 590-1200 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Thu 10-20
SOUVENIR SHOP SH O P O F T HE Y EA R 2 0 1 2
The viking:info Laugavegur 1 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 1 - 3 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 104 · Akureyri Adalstræti 27 · Ísafjördur e:info@the viking
Ísafjördur
Akureyri Reykjavík
www.theviking.is TAX FREE
This is Solla, the winner of Best Gourmet Raw Chef and Best Simple Raw Chef in the 2011 and 2012 “Best of Raw” Awards. Come and try out one of her great dishes at her restaurant Gló, Iceland’s most popular health food restaurant operating at three different locations in the great Reykjavik area. Reykjavík: Engjateigur 19 and Laugavegur 20b · Hafnarfjörður: Strandgata 34 · www.glo.is
VOLTA
The place where things are happening these days and there never seems to be a dull moment. It’s where you’ll find the city’s most popular DJ’s, a creative and exciting atmostphere, festive surroundings, suave bartenders, vibrant decor, fresh crowd, amazing wall art and dancing on tables.
Volta is a brand new concert and events venue in central Reykjavik that provides you with everything an excellent bar should have. A cocktail bar, lounge area, dancefloor, smoking room, a stage with a first class Funktion One soundsystem and a state of the art lighting system.
Tryggvagata 22, Reykjavik 571-8180
Tryggvagata 22, Reykjavik www.voltareykjavik.is volta@voltareykjavik.is
DOLLY
B5
DEN DANSKE KRO
One of the newest and hottest clubs in Reykjavik these days, mostly attracting young people who want to dance. Electronic music is their main thing during the weekend, but on weekdays they like to play make-out music, Icelandic classics from the 80’s and 90’s and host curiously themedpub quizzes.
B5 bar/bistro has become a very popular establishment with the locals of the capital. With its very contemporary and stylish interior, b5 is laid back during the day, while as night falls, the lights dim and the atmosphere changes accordingly.
There is live music playing every night at Den Danske Kro and sometimes there are live football games, pub quizzes, beer bingo, darts and happy hours. Den Danske Kro is a casual place in the heart of Reykjavik where everyone is welcome.
Bankastræti 5, Reykjavik 552-9600 www.b5.is
Ingólfsstræti 3, Reykjavik 552-0070 www.danski.is
KAFFIBARINN
MICROBAR
THE ENGLISH PUB
Best known as Damon Albarn’s hangout place back in the days, this most famous bar in Iceland is a popular destination for the artsy and univer sity crowd. During the week it‘s more of a café, but on the weekend the volume rises and KB becomes one of the hottest bars in Reykjavik.
Beer enthusiasts, look no further! In a small hole-in-the-wall kind of place just off Ingólfstorg square you will find Micro Bar. Carrying an impressive 140 different kinds of beers from all over the world, this is definitely the go-to place for beer fans.
In the mood for a pint? English Pub offers over 35 brands of beer and Whiskey. Whatever your preference – you will find it here. This is also a great place if you would like to catch some football (soccer). Inside they have 3 big screens and 2 TV’s so that you can catch all the action as it happens.
Smidjustigur 6, Reykjavik 551-4499 www.faktory.is
Hafnarstræti 4, Reykjavik 571-9222
Bergstaðastræti 1, Reykjavik 551-1588 www.kaffibarinn.is
Austurstræti 6, Reykjavik 847-9084 www.facebook.com/ MicroBarIceland
Austurstræti 12, Reykjavik 578-0400 www.facebook.com/enskibarinn
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HARLEM
It may not be the kind of factory you’re used to, but it’s a factory nonetheless. A factory of fun, if you will. Faktory is one of the main concert venues in the city, and there is something happening every night
NIGHTLIFE
FAKTORY
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SHOPPING & STYLE Find more recommendations on whatson.is
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ANNA MARÍA DESIGN For over twenty years, jewelry designer Anna Maria has created her things of gold and silver, a design that is both pure and timeless. Exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship create the elegant simplicity that shines through Anna Maria‘s products.
GALLERÍ SMÍÐAR OG SKART Gallery Smíðar og Skart offers a wide selection of contemporary Icelandic art. Oil paintings, acrylic paintings, watercolors as well as ceramics and glass art. Over 50 local artists have their work on display in the Gallery.
KOGGA Near the harbour in the middle of old town Reykjavik you’ll find unique ceramic design by the well known ceramics artist Kogga at her self titled gallery. Her work is both functional and sculptural, influenced by the rough nature of Iceland. A piece by Kogga can be found in many Icelandic homes.
Skólavörðustígur 3, Reykjavik 551-0036 www.annamariadesign.is
Skólavörðustígur 16a, Reykjavik 561-4090
LISTVINAHÚSIÐ
ÁLAFOSS
METAL DESIGN
The oldest ceramic workshop in Iceland established 1927. Three generations of artistic potters. Unique handmade ceramics, Viking masks and various ceramic potteries decorated with lava, made by Gudmundur Einarsson. Located right next to Hallgrímskirkja and the statue of “Leif the Lucky”.
One of Iceland’s major woollen industry shops, the Álafoss store. Situated in old factory premises that for decades were the leading manufacturers and exporters of Icelandic woollens, Álafoss is a company that strives towards offering the newest wares along with the traditional Icelandic wool sweaters
The jewellery forms which Metal design is known for are inspired by the Icelandic flora. But what stands out the most is the shape “The Coast” that is inspired by the waves of the Icelandic coast.”The coast silver jewellery line is for ladies and gentlemen.
Skólavörðustígur 43, Reykjavik 551-2850 www.listvinahusid.is
Álafossvegur 23, Mosfellsbær 566-6303 www.alafoss.is
LISTASELIÐ
BIRNA DESIGN
CINTAMANI
Six energetic women design and create exclusive art, while also running and working in the gallery. The gallery offers gift vouchers, issued by the store or by the Centrum organization that can be redeemed within most shops on Laugarvegur and Skólavörðustígur in downtown Reykjavik.
The Icelandic label BIRNA is built on a strong and individual identity; a style that doesn’t change radically every season but evolves and keeps moving. Combining timeless design with a personal touch, BIRNA creates clothing for confident women who want an individual look that lasts.
Skólavörðustígur 17b, Reykjavik 551-5675 | www.listaselid.is Hours: Mon-Fri 12-18, Sat 11-16
Skólavörðustígur 2, Reykjavik 445-2020 www.birna.net
Nowhere in the populated world does the weather change as fast, or as often as here. Thus Icelandic designers have to meet the requirements of consumers who have to go out all year long in harsh conditions. That‘s where the label Cintamani comes to the rescue. Their goal is to keep us warm, dry and comfortable, whatever the weather may bring.
Vesturgata 5, Reykjavik 552-6036 www.kogga.is
Skólavörðustígur 2. Reykjavik 552-5445 www.MetalDesignReykjavik.is
Bankastræti 7, Reykjavik 533-3800 | www.cintamani.is
Enjoy
Every day from 18:00
Hugsa sér!
All your favorites
Steaks, fish´n chips, burgers, … or take at our sandwiches anda look salads menu with a variety of Icelandic delicacies
Grillhúsið Tryggvagötu - Phone + 354 527 5000 - www.grillhusid.is RR-WO_145x107_0513.indd GH-RCG_145x107_0313.indd1 1
Hugsa sér!
We just love it.
Aðalstræti 2 | 101 Reykjavík | Tel: +354 517 4300 | www.geysirbistro.is
22.5.2013 19.3.2013 15:25 16:41
SHOPPING & STYLE
GULLKÚNST HELGU
MICHELSEN
KRAUM
With its wide open spaces and beautiful treasures displayed in glass casting, Gullkúnst Helgu feels more like a gallery than a jewelry shop. Located on central Laugavegur, Reykjavik´s busiest shopping street, this family owned shop is not to be missed.
Inside their spacious shop in downtown Reykjavik, Michelsen Watchmakers offer you to browse one of Iceland’s best selection of watches. Along with their own design they also have a wide selection of well-known brands including Rolex, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, Movado, Swiss Military and more.
Natural light floods the wooden floors and the fresh white walls of this stunning design hub and retail outlet, which already attracts some of Iceland´s top talents. More than 70 designers are contributing to a huge selection of products that include children’s puzzles, fish skin lamps and exquisite jewellery.
Laugavegur 13, Reykjavik 561-6660 www.gullkunst.is
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Aðalstræti 10, Reykjavik 517-7797 www.kraum.is
STUDIO STAFN
HILDUR HAFSTEIN
GEYSIR
At Studio Stafn you will be able to look at art, purchase art and have your art framed! Great works and historical paintings by Iceland’s most famous artists could become all yours if you pay them a visit. If you’re not looking to buy art, at least stop by and take a look.
A wonderful little workshop, where Hildur Hafstein creates her handmade Icelandic jewelry line, KORA. Inspired by different elements, such as Buddhism and the flower power, a visit to Hildur Hafstein will be a pleasant experience. Although the store is technically on Laugavegur, you walk in from Klapparstígur!
Rustic, vintage interior, intertwined with the latest fashion in outdoor and woolen clothing. Add some puffin, reindeers and other iconic animals and you‘ve got one of the coolest shops in town. This is one place you‘ll have to visit, if only for the experience.
Ingólfsstræti 6, Reykjavik 552-4700 www.studiostafn.is
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Laugavegur 15, Reykjavik 511-1900 www.michelsen.is
THE HANDKNITTING ASSOCIATION OF ICELAND R e n ow n e d f o r i t s exce l l e n t products and quality. Offering the widest selection of traditional hand knitted Icelandic sweaters, the range of products also includes special designs and a variety of woolen products from leading Icelandic manufactures. Skólavörðustígur 19, Reykjavik 552-1890 | www.handknit.is
Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 771-1177 www.HildurHafstein.is
EPAL Their main goal has been to i n c re a s e I ce l a n d e r s i n te re st and respect for fine design by introducing and providing top quality design products from all over the world, particularly Scandinavia. Epal has always been very supportive of Icelandic designers and done what they can to help them promote their design around the world. Skeifan 6, & Harpa Reykjavik Keflavík Airport 568-7740 | www.epal.is
Skólavörðustíg 16, Reykjavík 519-6000 www.geysir.com
ANDERSEN AND LAUTH Based on quality and traditional craftsmanship it is a contemporary collection with strong roots in the vibrant Reykjavik art and music scene. Andersen & Lauth create their collections with passion and put their heart and soul into every piece of design. Laugavegur 7, Reykjavik 552-6067 | andersenlauth.com
SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 14 - 101 REYKJAVÍK - TEL: +354 571 1100
FOOD & DRINK
THE LOBSTER HOUSE
VEGAMÓT
GRILLIÐ
Lobster dishes are the main focus on the menu but there is a lot more to choose from. The starters are fresh and exciting, for example the whale tataki with ginger jelly, soya and sesam vinagrette, and the carpaccio of horse with lobster, wild mushrooms and foie gras.
Is 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 playing well into the night.
Just last year they celebrated their 50th anniversary. From the very beginning, Grillid has been regarded as one of the best restaurants in Iceland. If you want fine dining, perfectly executed food, professional service and excellent wines with a spectacular view over the city, you have come to the right place.
Vegamótastígur 4, Reykjavik 511-3040 | www.vegamot.is
Radisson BLU Hotel, Reykjavik 525-9960 | www.grillid.is
ARGENTÍNA
HAMBORGARABÚLLAN – BURGER JOINT
Amtmannsstígur 1, Reykjavik 561-3303 www.humarhusid.is
AUSTURLANDAHRAÐLESTIN
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An excellent Indian restaurant, focusing on quality take-away, with the option of eating in. This means that while it‘s technically “fast food”, it’s definitely of restaurant q u a l i t y. Th e m e n u i n c l u d e s everything you could expect from an Indian restaurant, with the Chicken Tandoori being especially recommended.
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Lækjargata 8, Reykjavik 578-3838 | www.hradlestin.is
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 Barónsstígur 11a, Reykjavik 551-9555 www.argentina.is
Since 2004, the Joint has kept it simple, fun and delicious. Sitting right by the Old Harbour, in a small, iconic house, the atmosphere of the Burger Joint is hard to find elsewhere. You can feel the joy of the staff, as they serve you juicy burgers, exploding with great taste. Geirsgata 1, Reykjavik 511-1888 www.bullan.is
SNAPS
CARUSO
LIFANDI MARKAÐUR
A new restaurant in Iceland situated at Odinstorg. Snaps is 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”
Situated in a warm, charming old building in the heart of Reykjavik. Caruso is romantic to say the least, and serves top quality Italian- and Icelandic food. The surroundings are beautiful and the atmosphere is enchanting. The restaurant is on three floors, so it‘s ideal for groups, individuals and couples.
A modern and health conscious restaurant and whole food shop which offers a wide range of hot or cold food to eat in or take-out. The selection consists of both vegetarian food and healthy food. No white flour, white sugar, MSG is used in the food.
Óðinstorg, Reykjavik 511-6677 | www.snapsbistro.is
Þingholtsstræti 1, Reykjavik 562-7335 www.caruso.is
Borgartún 24, Reykjavik 585-8700 www.lifandimarkadur.is
e c r u o s A alth e h of
Th er m al sw i m m ing po ols
Hot t ubs and jacuzz i
Sa un as , steamb at hs an d sh ow er s
*Admission January 2013. Price is subject to change e
Reykjavik's Thermal Pools
*
O N LY
k. 55AD0ULiTsS k. 130DiRsEN CHIL
Fo r he alt h an d we ll- be ing
Se ve n lo ca t ion s
Op en ea rl y un t il lat e
Thermal pools a and d baths in Reykjavik a are e a source of health, rrelaxation elaxation and purenes pureness. s. 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).
Tel: +354 411 5000 • www.spacity.is
A new restaurant opposite the old harbour that offers traditional steak dishes along with some exciting and fairly unorthodox choices. The pride and joy of The Steakhouse is the Mibrasa charcoal oven, a rare oven that is designed to cook the perfect steak by mixing modern technology with ancient tradition. Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavik 561-1111 | www.steik.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 | www.austurindia.is
JÓMFRÚIN 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 | www.jomfruin.is
ÓSUSHI
NAUTHÓLL
PERLAN
The main attraction of Osushi is the greatly convenient conveyor belt that runs alongside the seating section, enticing guests with a diverse selection sushi and other delicacies. Each dish has a specific color that represents a certain price so you only pay for what you eat!
Lo c ate d i n t h e o u t s k i r t s o f Oskjuhlid and overlooking the beautiful thermal beach Nautholsvik, Nautholl Bistro is a wonderful restaurant. The environment will make you feel like you’ve gone far away from the hustle of the city, with a fantastic view over the woods and the shoreline.
For the finest in dining, nothing compares to Perlan Restaurant. While your taste buds delight to superb cuisine, you will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Reykjavik and beyond as the restaurant gently completes a full rotation every two hours.
Nauthólsvegur 106, Reykjavik 599-6660 | www.nautholl.is
Perlan, Reykjavik 562-0200 www.perlan.is
GLÓ
KAFFITÁR
VIÐ TJÖRNINA
Lo c a te d i n s i d e L i st h u s i d i n Laugardalur valley in Reykjavik, Glo is Iceland‘s hottest new organic restaurant. 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.
A chain of cafés and espresso bars with over 30 years of experience in serving and roasting high-quality coffee. They operate cafés in 8 locations in Iceland, promising a highly knowledgeable staff and a great cup of coffee procured in a responsible and fair way.
At one of the most beautiful spots in the city, in the heart of Reykjavik, you will find Við Tjörnina (By the Pond), an old and cherished seafood restaurant. The restaurant was considered to be quite revolutionary when it first opened over 25 years ago and has been a big part of Iceland‘s culinary culture ever since.
Engjateigur 19, Listhusid, Reykjavik 553-1111 | www.glo.is
Bankastræti 8, Reykjavik 420-2700 www.kaffitar.is/en
Templarasund 3, Reykjavik 551-8666 | www.vidtjornina.is
Find more recommendations on whatson.is
Pósthússtræti 14, Reykjavik 561-0562 www.osushi.is
FOOD & DRINK
THE STEAK HOUSE
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FOOD & DRINK Find more recommendations on whatson.is
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SJÁVARBARINN
MAR
LÆKJARBREKKA
Sjávarbarinn’s main feature is an all-you-can-eat buffet that has received raving reviews and it also offers an à la carte menu at a very competitive price. Join the locals for lunch in a friendly and cheerful atmosphere or enjoy dinner when the chef spruces things up.
An interesting new restaurant in prime location in Reykjavík‘s old harbour. The menu is inspired by South-American and southernEuropean cuisine and the restaurant designed to deliver fresh and uplifting dining experience, unique to the harbour area. MAR is an interesting choice for individuals and groups alike.
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.
Grandagarður 9, Reykjavik 517-3131 www.sjavarbarinn.is
Geirsgata 9, Reykjavik 519-5050 | www.marrestaurant.is
Bankastræti 2, Reykjavik 551-4430 www.laekjarbrekka.is
BAMBUS
GRILLHÚSIÐ
LEBOWSKI BAR
A new restaurant/lounge that gives you the best of both worlds Authentic Asian food in a beautiful and stylish environment for a reasonable price, and people are quickly catching on. The skilled chefs working there are very experienced, having worked at some of the best restaurants and hotels in Asia.
A fun restaurant, with the look and feel of an American Diner. Re a s o n a b ly p r ice d , o ffe ri ng delicious food and a very good service, you‘ll definitely get great value for your money here. They put a special emphasis on using only high quality ingredients, making for a terrific meal.
The 1998 comedy film The Big Lebowski by the Coen brothers 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.
Borgartún 16, Reykjavik 517-0123 | bambusrestaurant.is
ICELANDIC TAPAS HOUSE Over 60 very diverse dishes to choose from and, to make things easier, special offer menus, for example the “Discover Iceland” option where you can sample Icelandic delicacies through a four course meal that includes puffin, langoustine, and Icelandic skyr pizza. Ægisgarður 2, by the old Harbour, Reykjavik 512-8181 | www.tapashusid.is
Tryggvagata 20, Reykjavik 562-3453 www.grillhusid.is
Laugavegur 20a, Reykjavik 552-2300
FISH COMPANY
KOLABRAUTIN
Quality, fusion and fun are the Fish Company’s main characteristics. The interior is stylish and the quirky tableware fits in wonderfully. The menu is a world of adventures from starters to deserts. It’s designed to take you on a seafood journey and not only a journey of the Icelandic culinary waters but a trip around the world.
Harpa is not only home to the Icelandic Opera and the Orchestra, it is also the location of one of Reykjavik‘s newest fine restaurants. The kitchen is in the middle of the room, where the fiery furnace gives the dinner guests a warm welcome. An ideal choice for people who appreciate fine cuisine combined with unique architecture and elegant atmosphere.
Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavik 552-5300 | www.fiskfelagid.is
Harpa, Reykjavik 519-9700 | www.kolabrautin.is
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Restaurant for over 30 years
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Icelandic Cuisine
Bankastræti 2 - 101 Reykjavík - Tel. 551 4430 - info@laekjarbrekka.is - www.laekjarbrekka.is
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
FAQ ABOUT REYKJAVIK, ICELAND AND EVERYTHING RELATED Want to know the population of Iceland? Who‘s the president? Why there are so many beautiful women in Iceland? Why people live so far north in the cold? When is the best time to visit? We have all these answers and plenty more. We strive to have the answer to everything you might possibly want to know about Iceland, Reykjavik, Icelanders, travelling to Iceland and everything related (or unrelated) you might be seeking. If you can‘t find your answer here – just drop us an email on whatson@whatson.is – ask us on facebook, twitter, instagram or any other media you can imagine and we‘ll do our best to answer promptly!
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
» 112
Emergency, Police, ambulance, fire department, medicine.
» 118
Information.
THE POLICE » 444-1000
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL 24 HRS SERVICE EMERGENCY WARD » 543-2000 DOCTORS ON DUTY » 1770 DENTAL WARD » 575-0505 HEALTH CENTRE FOR TOURISTS » 510-6500
WHAT IS THE MAJOR BUS TERMINAL? We call it “The Bus Terminal”. It’s a pretty neat place, very central, very downtown. It’s the home of Reykjavik Excursions and the FlyBus that takes you to and from Keflavik Airport. The terminal is basically between the airport (you really won’t miss the airport… it’s downtown (want to know what’s up with that? Well, we’ve answered that question already!)) and central downtown, but on the other side of the pond. At the bus terminal you’ll find one of the coolest restaurants in Reykjavik. Hugely authentic and Icelandic, they offer singed sheep heads en masse as well as other national delicacies. Lastly – the Bus Terminal will store your luggage if you need – especially handy if you’re doing a couple of day’s tour from Reykjavik.
DO YOU GUYS SPEAK ANY OTHER LANGUAGES BESIDES ENGLISH?
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Back in the day, all of us spoke Danish, or some sort of an equivalent language, usually called “Scandinavian”. That was just a random mixture of Icelandic, Danish, Swedish and Norwegian, jumbled together and, surprisingly, always understandable by everyone from the Nordic countries. Except the Finnish of course, they have the most absurd language… In later years, we don’t really speak as much Scandinavian, unless we’re drunk, then we speak everything fluently. However, there’s a rising proficiency in super cool languages such as German, Spanish, French and more. Some people are learning Chinese as well, that’s pretty cool. Now, if, by “you guys”, you meant us here at whatson.is, then we can proudly inform that we speak Icelandic, English, Spanish, Scandinavian fluently, with a dash of German and a google-translate-proficiency of every other language conceivable.
WHEN ARE STORES OPEN IN ICEL AND? Opening hours in Iceland are generally quite liberal. Everything is more or less open on Sundays. You’ll find a selection of grocery stores open 24/7 and most shops open till evening. Especially in the summer.
WHERE CAN I FIND A PHARMACY, AND WHAT‘S THE ICELANDIC WORD FOR IT? It’s around. Look for the internationally recognized cross. The word you’re looking for is “Apótek” – the main brands being Lyfja and Lyf og Heilsa. Quite simple.
YOU DON‘T HAVE AN ARMY? No. We’re peace loving to infinity. On top of that we have some pretty muscular friends.
WHAT IF YOU‘D BE UNDER ATTACK? Then we’d call upon said muscular friends. If that wouldn’t work we’d point out that we’re a tiny island way north in the middle of the ocean. If THAT wouldn’t work, we’d send forth our arsenal of international beauty queens and world’s strongest men.
Going places? Experience Iceland in a whole new way
Tel. +354 562 6060 www.budget.is Budget locations: Reykjavík, Keflavík, Akureyri, Egilsstaðir
COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS Want to know the population of Iceland? Who‘s the president? Why there are so many beautiful women in Iceland? Why people live so far north in the cold? When is the best time to visit? We have all these answers and plenty more. We strive to have the answer to everything you might possibly. ARE YOU REALLY ESKIMOS? Where did you even get that idea from? No we‘re not. YOUR LANGUAGE DOESN‘T MAKE SENSE, ARE YOU REALLY SPEAKING REAL WORDS? No, this is just an elaborate scheme we put in action whenever there’s a foreigner around. In reality our language is Spanish, because we used to do a lot of business with the Spanish some hundreds of years ago. We sold them salted fish in bulk, in exchange for red wine. That was a great deal… Okay, in reality. Yeah… Icelandic is a real language, spoken by some 300.000 Icelanders. It’s related to the other Scandinavian languages, Swedish, Danish and Norwegian, though it doesn’t really sound similar.
SINCE YOU GUYS LIVE IN IGLOOS, DO YOU HAVE INTERNET? The igloo joke is not funny. At all. We are serious folk, living in serious looking houses, with roofs and doors and electricity and stuff. Yes we have internet. Actually, we have like, the highest internet penetration in the world. Practically everyone in Iceland has access to internet.
WHAT ABOUT TROLLS AND ELVES AND STUFF? SHOULD I WORRY? Nah, not really. Unless you provoke or irritate them, in that case you should run.
I HEARD ICELANDIC FOOD IS DISGUSTING, WHAT‘S UP WITH THAT? It‘s not really. Well, some of it is, sure, but the regular food is honestly just that, regular food. You have to keep in mind that back in the day, Iceland was dirt poor and isolated in the middle of the ocean. So we really didn‘t have much choice when it came to culinary development and enhancements. Summer was about hoarding as much food as possible, just in order to survive winter. However, having plenty of food in August is not going to help at all if it‘s all destroyed and disgusting in April is it? So the ingenious Icelanders of yore had to figure out ways to preserve the food and did so by inventing methods of varying foulness, ranging from not foul at all (drying, smoking, salting) to quite foul and even very foul (fermenting stuff in sour whey, leaving stuff in barrels for weeks and calling it “processing”, when in fact things are just going bad.) As a result, some of the traditional Icelandic food has an acquired taste. A lot of it is quite delicious though. For more information, please refer the article “The Taste of Iceland,” on page 8.
DO YOU GUYS LIVE IN SNOWHOUSES?
I JUST GOT MUGGED! WHAT SHOULD I DO???
Yes. Yes we do. As well, we tend to embark on raids to Europe, pillaging and plundering peasants in England. On a serious note: We wish we lived in snowhouses, that‘d probably be awesome. But alas, we don‘t.
No you didn‘t get mugged. You don‘t get mugged in Iceland. You can literally leave your wallet on the ground and either some one will deliver it to you, the nearest police station, or it‘ll still be there the next morning.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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PRACTICAL INFORMATION 62
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
UNDERSTANDABLE CONCERNS WHAT’S THE POPULATION OF ICELAND AND HOW BIG IS THE COUNTRY?
WHY DO PEOPLE LIVE SO FAR NORTH IN THE COLD? Meh…It’s a mixture of reasons really. Firstly – we were born here, so we’re just used to it and don’t know anything else. Secondly – we have some seriously warm clothes up here, so we’re not that cold all the time. Thirdly – Iceland is packed with steaming water pouring from the ground here and there, so our houses are warm all the time. Now on top of that – Iceland is BEAUTIFUL! It’s like… jaws-to-the-ground stunning at times. We have Aurora borealis, waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, volcanoes and a multitude of other super cool awesome amazing stuff. That alone makes living here a dream. Oh we also have a bunch of fish – we like fish, so it makes sense to live here for that.
Roughly 320.000. Yes – we have about the same amount of people as Santa Ana or Riverside California. Or one tenth of Berlin (Germany) or Madrid (Spain) if that scale makes more sense. Less than Bilbao (Spain), Cardiff (UK) and Nice (France). More than Utrecht (Netherlands), Bari (Italy) and the renowned town of Wirral (UK). Stop making fun of us. We’re blond, tall and strong. Who cares we’re just a handful. We’re statistically good at everything! Size really doesn‘t matter, so we‘re not too worried about that...But, we‘re talking 103,000 high-quality km‘s (40,000 sq mi). Iceland is actually the worlds 18th largest island, which isn‘t really that impressive.
WHY ARE THERE SO MANY BEAUTIFUL WOMEN IN ICELAND? This is not coming from us, but according to some people, it‘s because, back in the day, the Vikings went over to England and stole all the beautiful women from them, which resulted in Iceland being a disproportionally beautiful nation, as opposed to the English... This is not something we honestly believe though – the official story is Lýsi, high quality fish and a biased, yet favourable, general opinion on beauty standards.
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an insight into life in Reykjavik and introduce to its readers the highlights of the city. On their website you will find absolutely everything you could possibly want to know about Reykjavik and more. The greatest thing about My Destination Reykjavik and what separates them from other travel sites is that it is filled with tips and reviews from locals who really know what they are talking about.
Reykjavik My Destination is a global travel resource powered by a community of local experts providing unrivalled local knowledge and deals. My Destination operates in 6 continents, 46 countries with over 100 destinations and the network is constantly growing. The local experts at each destination are passionate about providing the best value for money and work closely with the global partners whilst supporting local businesses. As a result, My Destination makes travel experiences inspired, more enriched, and quite simply, better.
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The My Destination Reykjavik franchise was founded in 2009 and has strived to provide information about many of Reykjavik’s best restaurants, stores, clubs, excursions and transportation companies along with practical tips and fun facts about Reykjavik and its surrounding areas. They give you
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My Destination is there for you whether you want to get to know the history of Iceland, learn about the culture, read informative content about the restaurants you plan on eating at, book your accommodation, rent a car, find out What’s On in Reykjavik, browse through photos or load up on other useful information. Basically they have everything you need to get informed and make the best of your trip. The local experts at My Destination Reykjavik are on the ground and have personally experienced what our destination has to offer. They make sure to produce comprehensive information in the form of travel articles, local tips, guides, reviews, videos and panoramic virtual tours. The website was recently given a makeover with an entirely new look and lots of improvements, along with new information and updates. It is safe to say that My Destination Reykjavik is the whole package. Let them enhance your experience and be your tour guide during your stay in Iceland. You will get more out of your Iceland experience than you thought was possible.
Some places have a certain something about them. People just want to be there. And if you are lucky you get to spend some time at one of those places. Atli Bollason shared an apartment at Ingólfsstræti 8a few years ago with two friends. He never knew who would be there or what would happen when he got home. Sometimes it was a café, sometimes a cinema and after the bars closed there would maybe be a line outside. People just showed up. Ingólfsstræti 8 Skál fyrir þér! Léttöl
WOOL SWEATERS, ACCESSORIES, WOOL BLANKETS, TRADITIONAL CRAFTS & MODERN ICELANDIC ART
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LAUGAVEGUR 8, REYKJAVÍK ÁLAFOSSVEGUR 23, MOSFELLSBÆR OPEN: MON. - FRI. 9.00 - 18.00 SAT. 9:00 - 16:00
www.alafoss.is
ENJOY THE WARMTH FROM ICELAND!
E&Co.
ICELANDIC WOOL
WORN OUT FOR CENTURIES We o ffer c lo t h i n g & o t h er mer c h a n d i s e t h at r em i nd s u s o f g o o d old Ic el a n d
– V i s i t o u r s t or e s : 101 R e y k j a v í k , A k u r e y r i a n d G e y s i r, H a u k a d a l . w w w. g e y s i r. c om –