August 2022
IN REYKJAVÍK
REYKJAVÍK’S LEADING GUIDE TO INFORMATION, EVENTS, MUSEUMS, AND GALLERIES SINCE 1982
Looking for more? The What’s On Iceland tourist information and booking centres are located in downtown Reykjavík. Visit us during your stay in Iceland for information and tour bookings. www.whatson.is
Laugavegur 5 • 101 Reykjavík
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CONTENT LIST
FROM THE EDITOR
WHAT’S ON
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REYKJAVÍK CITY MAP
50-51
EVENTS
68-83
ART & CULTURE
84-88
PUBS & NIGHTLIFE
90-91
WINING & DINING
93-95
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
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Welcome to Reykjavík As we reach the peak of summer, it doesn’t really take much effort to enjoy a sunny Reykjavík day. But it’s still worth it to take a minute to pay a little extra attention to the passing moment and reflect on your surroundings, your companions, and even yourself. The streets of Reykjavík are lined with low houses of clashing architecture styles and periods. The good thing about them is that they usually don’t cover much of the sky, so even in the city centre, there’s always a feeling of space. Take a short detour off Laugavegur, and you’ll be rewarded with a view over open water, dotted with emerald green islands, against a backdrop of blue mountains. Seagulls and ducks gently bobbing in the calm water around the striking yellow lighthouses or taking flight over the Sun Voyager sculpture should be just enough to remind you just how close we are to wild nature. When you get back to the city streets, focus on the people around you. People-watching in a new city is always a fun activity, but there’s also the clothes they wear, the music they listen to, the food they eat and the art they create. Take in the atmosphere in restaurants, shops, museums, concerts, and festivals in Reykjavík to gain a sense of the small differences and the vast similarities people share all over the world. Some of the city’s largest festivals take place in August, such as the Reykjavík Culture Night and the Pride festival, both of which culminate in lively and colourful events that draw in the local crowd.
Published by: MD Reykjavík ehf. Laugavegur 5, 101 Reykjavik. Tel.: 551-3600 Contact us: info@whatson.is Publisher: Kjartan Þorbjörnsson Distribution: info@baeklingadreifing.is Tel.: 662-6122
Printing: Kroonpress Ltd.
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Map of Reykjavík: Friðrik Bjarnason Editor: Gréta Sigríður Einarsdóttir, greta@whatson.is Content writers: The What’s On Team Ad sales: Sigurþór Marteinn, sm@whatson.is
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WHAT’S ON — VOLUME 40 — ISSUE 8
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Just don’t forget to enjoy the moment!
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What’s On Information Centre, Laugavegur 5.
5041 0787 Kroonpress
WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVÍK is published monthly, covering events and happenings in and around Reykjavík. Opinions expressed in WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVÍK are those of the individual authors. While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is accurate, prices, times, dates and other information may be subject to change.
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Only 35 min. from Reykjavík
A journey into RAUFARHÓLSHELLIR
is a
Breathtaking Experience The highlight of our Iceland trip! The “Must See” event in Iceland Reviewed on TripAdvisor
For more information and bookings: +354 519 1616
www.thelavatunnel.is
+354 760 1000 info@thelavatunnel.is
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THE WHAT’S ON CHECKLIST August is the month to be in Iceland if you simultaneously love the great outdoors and a good party or two. After a couple of years on hold, Reykjavík Pride is pulling out all the stops with a packed program of events and celebration from the 2nd to the 7th. The city shifts back into party gear to celebrate Reykjavík Culture Night on the 20th. August is green and beautiful everywhere you look, (if you close your eyes you can hear the grass grow). Here are What’s On’s tips for this month: Celebrate Reykjavík Pride by cheering on the annual parade and attending other events. Snorkel between tectonic plates in the crystal-clear water of Silfra fissure. Eat waffles and sing Happy Birthday to Reykjavík during Culture Night. Go on a whale watching tour to meet some dolphins, minke whales and humpback whales. Tour the Snæfellsnes peninsula, aka “Iceland in Miniature.” Take a stroll up Þúfa hill. Check out the wildly inventive colourful Icelandic Pop Art master Erro at Hafnarhús museum. While you’re checking things off the list, snap some photos and tag #whatsonrvk on Instagram.
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Adventure Ground
Sólheimajökull Mýrdalsjökull Skaftafell
Adventure Ground ON THE SOUTH COAST
All in one place Need a ride? From Reykjavík the Adventure Bus is the easiest way to an unforgettable adventure. Adventure Ground Offered by: Mountain Guides & Arcanum
An exciting selection of outdoor activities in the beautiful south coast of Iceland. With regular departures from two dedicated Base Camps, less than 10 minutes driving distance from each other, you can fill your day with adventure.
Book your adventure now AdventureGround.is or call us +354 587 9999
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#WhatsOnRVK
on Instagram
So you’re in Iceland, taking in the sights and everything else this magnificent country has to offer. Why not share it with the world? Tag your photos #WhatsOnRvk and you might be featured in our magazine next month! Browse the entire What’s On catalogue at www.whatson.is.
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@eyrunlydia
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@osnuflaz Find us on Instagram! @whatsoniceland
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@moments.in.iceland Find us on Instagram! @whatsoniceland
@milla.hestastelpa 9
GlAcIeR IcE CaVe & SnOwMoBiLe
Come with us inside the Glacier Experience a snowmobile tour from Gullfoss Café to our new Glacier Ice Cave in Langjökull. Daily departures: 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00 www.mountaineers.is ice@mountaineers.is +354 580 9900
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RUN, REYKJAVÍK, RUN!
Reykjavík Culture night is one of Reykjavík’s biggest celebrations of the year and they don’t limit themselves to just the kind of culture that you can see in galleries. The Reykjavík Marathon, established as early as 1984, has by now become an integral part of the celebration. Taking place for the 33rd time this year, the Reykjavík Marathon has grown from a 214 people race to an event that attracts 15.000 people every year! If a whole marathon sounds like a bit too much for you, other events at the marathon include a half-marathon, a 10 km run, a marathon relay, a 3 km run and a Kids Run. The starting line is in the heart of the city centre by the pond and the city hall, and you run through residential areas, public parks and by the coast so it’s a great way to see the city! The race takes place on Saturday August 20th. Online registration will be open until noon on Thursday August the 18th at marathon.is, registration is also possible at the Fit&Run EXPO in Laugardalshöll sports hall on the 18th and 19th of August.
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SKYR ICELAND’S SECRET TO HEALTHY LIVING
Legend has it that the Vikings introduced Skyr to Iceland when they settled in the country some 1.100 years ago. Travel back in time to any farm, and Skyr would be on the table – essential nourishment for young and old. Generations past may not have been able to measure the nutritional content in the way we can now, but the life expectancy of the average Icelander was proof enough that something good was going on. Icelanders have ever since loved the smooth texture of this incredibly healthy dairy product, and today it plays a big role in the modern diet. Skyr is high in protein and a virtually fat-free dairy delight. Thick and creamy in consistency, it is also rich in calcium and other nutrients. Skyr can be found at almost every home and workplace. Enjoyed at breakfast, lunchtime, pretty much anytime, it has also become a healthy “fast-food” for active people on the go. Delicious in smoothies or energy-boosting drinks, it even features on the dessert menus of many top restaurants, which are bringing a contemporary twist to this established favourite.
KEA SKYR WITH VANILLA
Kea skyr comes from the northern part of Iceland, and this is one of the most popular flavours available. The taste is full and creamy, with zero fat. Its mild and creamy flavour also makes it popular as a base for desserts.
ÍSEY SKYR WITH BLUBERRIES
Ísey skyr is a remarkable dairy product unique to Iceland. High in protein and naturally fat free, Ísey skyr is delicious, rich in flavour with a thick and creamy texture. Ísey is a beautiful Icelandic female name, meaning ice (ís) and island (ey), in honour of the women who passed on Iceland‘s secret to healthy living from generation to generation.
ÍSEY SKYR WITH DARK CHOCOLATE AND VANILLA
Skyr producers have been experimenting with new flavours in Ísey skyr while still keeping it as nutritious as possible. One of the more recent additions is Ísey skyr with dark chocolate and vanilla flavour.
ÍSEY SKYR – PLAIN
Skyr was originally only available as plain and was made at every farm in Iceland. Nowadays, there is a huge variety of flavours available but many still prefer the plain one, especially served with sugar and/or cream.
ÍCELANDIC PROVISIONS SKYR
If you find yourself in the US, craving skyr, don’t panic! This is the only skyr available in the US that’s made with traditional Icelandic skyr cultures, passed down through generations of Icelanders. Rich in protein but low in sugar, with flavours that have a Nordic twist, such as Strawberry with Lingonberry. Icelandic Provisions skyr is only available in the US and is a sister brand of Ísey Skyr. #icelandicprovisions
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ICELAND‘S SECRET TO HEALTHY LIVING
HIGH PROTEIN – FAT FREE
iseyskyr.is 13
LAUGAVEGUR 54 / 101 REYKJAVÍK
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WHAT TO DO IF YOU ONLY HAVE ONE DAY TO SPEND IN ICELAND
Our first piece of advice if you have just one day to spend in Iceland is to change your flight and stay for at least a week. If that’s not an option, here’s what we suggest to get the most out of this unique destination in such a short time. If you just want to see the highlights
The Golden Circle is the most popular day tour from Reykjavík – and it’s easy to see why. The classic route includes three stops that also happen to be three of the most captivating natural wonders in Iceland. Tour operators may add their own twists, but you’re sure to stop at Þingvellir, a national park straddling the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates; Gullfoss, an awe-inspiring waterfall that lends its name to the Golden Circle (gull translates to gold); and the Geysir geothermal area, with an erupting hot spring guaranteed to impress. You can complete the Golden Circle in half a day (depending on the tour you book), leaving you time to squeeze more into your short stay.
If you want to see a fresh lava field
The Reykjanes peninsula reminded us why Iceland is known as the Land of Fire and Ice when it began erupting in March 2021. The Fagradalsfjall volcano stopped spewing lava in September 2021, but it’s still a fascinating place to visit for a chance to see Iceland’s youngest lava field. Visiting the eruption site is relatively safe, and you can reach the area by hike or helicopter. Those in decent shape should allow three hours for a round-trip hike, plus time to
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spend gazing over the area. Don’t walk on the young lava rock, though. Lava can take years to fully cool, so (Yikes!) there may be molten lava just beneath the seemingly solid surface.
If you want to see a glacier
There’s no better way to get a feel for the latter half of Iceland’s “Land of Fire and Ice” moniker than to go on a glacier hike. Glacier hikes are relatively easy, and professional gear is provided, so the tour should be accessible for most. You get to walk on a glacier with guides who know everything there is to know about glaciers and Iceland in general. What’s cooler than that?
If you want a little luxury
What’s better than a spa day? Visiting a geothermal spa fed by Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver. At Krauma Natural Geothermal Baths, the water from the hot spring is mixed with cool glacial water for a perfect temperature. It has five hot tubs and one cold bath, plus a relaxation room, two steam baths and an infrared sauna. Alternatively, if you don’t want to leave the capital area, book the seven-step “Ritual” at the Sky Lagoon for a luxurious afternoon of soaking, steaming, scrubbing and other soothing activities.
If you want an adrenaline rush
Are you looking for a thrill? Go on a buggy ride.
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A buggy is a fast, sturdy and stable ATV, perfect for anyone who loves to get their blood pumping in the great outdoors – and who doesn’t mind getting a little dirty in the process. Driving a buggy through rough Icelandic terrain, over mud puddles, dirt roads or snow, makes for an exhilarating day.
If you want to hit the high seas
Marine life abounds in the water around Iceland, and you can see everything from harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins to minke and humpback whales on a whale watching tour. Tour boats depart Reykjavík’s old harbour throughout the day, cruising to the spots where sightings are most likely. Nothing beats the thrill of seeing a massive whale breach or watching one slap its enormous flukes on the water’s surface. If you have a few hours to spare before or after the cruise (or if you get seasick and a cruise is out of the question), check out the Whales of Iceland exhibition to learn more about these gentle giants.
Stop by the What’s On information centre, or send us an email, info@whatson.is, and ask the staff to help you plan an unforgettable vacation.
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Taste the best of iceland ICELANDIC GOURMET FEAST Starts with a shot of the infarmous Icelandic spirit Brennivín Followed by 7 delicious tapas • Smoked puffin with blueberry “brennivín” sauce • Icelandic arctic char with candy beets salad, asparagus and elderflower-hollandaise • Lobster tails baked in garlic • Pan-fried blue ling with lobster sauce • Grilled Icelandic lamb tenderloin with beer-butterscotch sauce • Minke Whale with sweet potato mash and malt sauce And for dessert: • White chocolate "Skyr" mousse with passion coulis
late night dining
9.900 kr.
Our kitchen is open until 23:00 on weekdays and 24:00 on weekends
TAPASBARINN | Vesturgata 3B | Tel: 551 2344 | tapas.is
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The Northern Lights are back Towards the end of August, it gradually starts to get dark at night again. Luckily, that means that the northern lights are back. They never really left, they were just drowned out by the midnight sun.
a slow draft. Their movement might seem familiar, but the scale is so vast and unlike anything else that it’s… well, it’s hard to put into words. Better to see for yourself.
Seeing the northern lights is a sublime experience, and we recommend seeking them out while you are in Iceland. The phenomenon is caused when solar flares interact with the earth’s magnetic field about 80 miles up. It’s sometimes called the ‘solar wind,’ which moves like a wisp of smoke caught in
The northern lights aren’t a reliable attraction, and seeing them can be a matter of being in the right spot at the right time. It’s not all down to luck, however, as there are a few things you can do to maximise your chances of seeing the ethereal lights.
Different ways to see the northern lights: Going by coach:
Going by boat:
Cheap and effective. A northern lights tour by bus or minibus is a good way to see the lights if you’re not too concerned about being surrounded by a lot of people and simply travelling by bus. Perhaps not the best time if you don’t see anything – but it’s the cheapest option to see the lights, and it gets the job done.
A great experience regardless of lights. Going by boat is a very good choice for those who want to ensure they get something out of their tour even if no lights are found. Being out at sea and viewing the city lights from the water is in itself a great experience.
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Top 8 tips for the northern lights
1
GET OUT OF TOWN The city lights block the northern lights!
2 MAKE SURE IT’S DARK
Daylight and northern lights don’t go hand in hand!
3 MAKE SURE THE SKY IS CLEAR
The northern lights appear way above the clouds!
4 GIVE IT TIME AND BE PATIENT!
The northern lights don’t come out by order – be patient and you might get lucky!
5 SIGHTINGS CAN NEVER BE GUARANTEED
So we’d recommend a tour that includes some great activity as well as northern lights hunt – so you won’t feel disappointed!
6 WEAR SOMETHING WARM
It can get seriously cold, especially when the sky is clear and you’re waiting for a long time.
7 KNOW YOUR CAMERA!
Taking photos with a flash won’t work. Ever. A tripod and long exposure are your friends!
8 ENJOY IT!
Lie down on the ground. Look up. Enjoy!
Going by super-jeep: Exclusive and thrilling. Going on a hunt for the lights with a specially modified superjeep is a thrilling experience that’s fun and exciting. Sights can of course never be guaranteed, but the off-road action of a superjeep makes for a great adventure, the lights are just an added bonus.
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Book your northern lights tour now online or at the What’s On tourist information centre, at Laugavegur 5.
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101 Reykjavík Crash Course
WHAT IS IT?
101 is the postal code of Reykjavík’s downtown area. However, 101 has gained some deep-rooted cultural connotations over the years. It’s a way of life. In the eternal struggle between city life and country life, 101 Reykjavík has become synonymous with the intellectual, artistic type who sips lattés and wears scarves.
WHY IS THAT?
Well, the centre of Reykjavík has a history of being home to people that like to think they know more than the rest of Iceland. Not only have the rulers of Reykjavík and Iceland always lived and worked there, but some of Iceland’s oldest and most respected schools are also there, including the University of Iceland. Hallgrímur Helgason’s book 101 Reykjavík (and the movie based on the book) also helped to solidify the reputation of 101-dwellers as hopeless dreamers that never do an honest day’s work and spend their nights partying. You’ll have to decide if that’s a negative or positive stereotype.
HOW IS IT?
As the heart of the Icelandic capital, 101 has plenty of things to see, do, eat, and drink. It’s also ripe with historical buildings, museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants and boasts the highest café-to-building ratio in all of Iceland. If you’re staying in Reykjavík, you must visit 101 Reykjavík. In fact, you could have a perfectly nice vacation (or a life) never leaving 101 Reykjavík at all.
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GLJÚFRASTEINN
THE LAXNESS MUSEUM
Gljúfrasteinn was the home of writer Halldór Laxness (the winner of The Nobel Prize in Literature 1955) and his family for more than half a century. The house is now a museum, where the author’s home is preserved just as it was when he lived and worked there. The museum is open on Tuesdays to Fridays from 10:00–17:00. Audio guides of the house are available in Icelandic, English, German, Swedish, and Danish, as well as an illustrated guide in French. Gljúfrasteinn-Laxness museum is located in the valley of Mosfellsdalur on the way to Þingvellir National Park, only a 20-minute drive from Reykjavík. For more information, go to www.gljufrasteinn.is.
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7 FACTS YOU (PROBABLY) DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT ICELANDIC VOLCANOES
An Icelandic volcano is the reason for democracy as we know it The 1783-4 eruption of Laki was history’s biggest volcanic eruption. When it erupted, the ash darkened the sky over all of Europe for years. The ash’s toxicity caused widespread crop failures and the resulting famine all over Europe was almost certainly one of the causes of the French revolution in 1789, ultimately resulting in the first modern democracy as we know it. You’re welcome… Not just one, but TWO of the BIGGEST ERUPTIONS in the recorded history of the world, occurred in Iceland! Not only was Laki the biggest eruption in recorded history, measured by volume of lava, but Iceland was also the site of the second biggest emission in recorded history, the 2014 eruption of Bárðarbunga. In just 6 months, Bárðarbunga produced enough lava to cover the island of Manhattan – 85km2. It still isn‘t close to matching Laki. That eruption produced 370 km2 of lava, the size of the Gaza strip, in only 50 days! Iceland has the only island scientists have been able to observe and document from the moment of its creation: Surtsey Surtsey was formed by a volcanic eruption at the bottom of the ocean and emerged from the water
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on November 14, 1963. It was immediately granted protection by law and no one was allowed to set foot on the island. To this day only scientists are allowed to go there, and even they have to get special permission. This means that we have been able to monitor how life settles on a brand-new land from the beginning, and the information gained has been invaluable to scientists. 1/3 of All the Earth’s Fresh Lava Originated in Iceland! Let me explain what I mean by fresh. When you’re discussing volcanoes, all concepts that have something to do with time get a bit skewed. For instance, fresh lava means lava emissions on earth since the year 1500. For such a small island, that’s a pretty impressive amount of lava. It’s maybe not surprising, considering…
for around 800 years. Despite being a relatively small eruption in the grand scheme of things, geologists believe it could still go down in history as the first in a new series of eruptions in the area, as historically speaking, volcanic activity is usually not limited to a single event. Volcanic activity is notoriously hard to predict, so only time will tell! Want to see Iceland’s freshest lava field? The lava field created in the 2021 Reykjanes peninsula eruption is a wonder to behold, black and sharp, there’s still plenty of heat underneath the striking forms of the lava! For more information on how to get there, contact info@whatson.is or stop by the What’s On Information office at Laugavegur 5.
Iceland has a volcanic eruption every 4-5 years! This isn’t surprising considering the island has somewhere around 150-200 volcanoes, split into different volcanic systems. About 30 different systems are still considered “active” in Iceland, and 13 of them have erupted since the Viking Settlement in 874. The 2021 Reykjanes eruption could be the beginning of a new series of eruptions! The eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula that started in March 2021 was the first one in the region
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Become one with nature at our 8 natural Hot Springs Only 45 minutes from Reykjavík
Book at hvammsvik.com
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With a subarctic climate and a tiny population, Iceland is a little different from other popular travel destinations. Desolate landscapes, extreme weather, mountain roads, geothermal areas, and the ocean can all catch the unprepared off-guard. Keep the following six safety guidelines in mind when planning your trip to Iceland.
1. Familiarise yourself with Iceland’s emergency numbers
The emergency number in Iceland is 112. You can dial it free of charge to reach emergency services like ambulances, rescue teams, and the police, and there is also a 112 app that can send your information to emergency services at the press of a button
2. Follow updates on Safetravel.is
Icelandic weather is infamously fickle, and extreme weather is not uncommon. In wintertime, high wind speeds and snow can frequently limit visibility. Safetravel.is offers up-to-date road-condition maps, weather alerts, and plenty of helpful tips and information on the best and safest way to travel around the country. There’s an app for that, too. It’s well worth downloading and checking regularly throughout your travels.
3. Be extra careful when visiting geothermal areas
CHECK OUT THE SAFE TRAVEL APP
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The water in geothermal areas can reach temperatures upward of 100°C. Falling in or slipping can result in severe burns. Safe paths are clearly marked, so stick to them and never walk on ground that is steaming.
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Visit www.safetravel.is
How to Travel Safely in Iceland
WHAT’S ON 4. Keep a safe distance from the ocean Sneaker waves – disproportionally large waves that encroach farther onto shore than regular waves – are frequent occurrences at the Reynisfjara and Kirkjufjara beaches in South Iceland. Sneaker waves are more powerful than people expect, and accidents have proven fatal in the past. Keep a safe distance from the water and observe nearby signs.
5. Stay on the path
Whether visiting a waterfall, a geothermal area, or hiking in the mountains, staying on the marked footpath is imperative. Respect when paths are closed and heed all signs. It’s closed for a reason, either to protect you or fragile nature
6. Let someone know where you’re going
If you’re planning on hiking or hitchhiking, let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. You can also upload your travel plan to www.safetravel.is.
Visit www.safetravel.is
WHERE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS ARE ALWAYS ON DISPLAY
MULTIMEDIA EXHIBITION
MOVIE THEATER
TOUR BOOKING
GIFT SHOP AND GALLERY
Grandagarður 2 | 101 Reykjavík Tel: +354 780 4500
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open daily 09:00 - 21:00
www.aurorareykjavik.is
A world class exhibition on volcanoes and earthquakes surrounded by active volcanoes The Lava Centre is situated at Hvolsvöllur on the South Coast of Iceland, surrounded by active volcanoes. It truly acts as the gateway to Iceland’s most active volcanic area. The Lava Centre just received two Red Dot Awards, which cement its position as a world class exhibition.
LAVA Centre is the best place to learn about the new Fagradalsfjall eruption, with new exhibits explaining the eruption and new film footage in the volcano cinema.
MORE INFO AND TICKETS AT
Open every day
www.lavacentre.is
9:00 - 16:00
Iceland Volcano & Earthquake Centre Austurvegur 14, Hvolsvöllur · South Iceland
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Things you should know for Reykjavik Pride 2022 28
After two long years lying dormant, pride is back and erupting onto the streets, parks and bars of Reykjavík. Making up for lost time with a full calendar that’s all- singing, alldancing, Ukulele and synchronised swimming. Alongside the party, Reykjavík Pride is also convening the Rainbow Conference, a program of talks, workshops and sharings addressing issues and challenges that face the LGBTQ+ community in Reykjavík and farther afield. Pride’s theme this year is The Beauty of Freedom. The phrase is borrowed from a song by Systur (sisters), Iceland’s representatives in this years Eurovision Song Contest. With close ties to the queer community, Systur used their Eurovision platform to highlight challenges facing trans youth. It’s a conversation the pride committee wanted to carry forward into the pride festival this year, and this is reflected in this year’s program. 2022’s Pride will be the 23rd Pride festival in Reykjavík. As well as being a big draw for visitors, the festival is supported and embraced by the city and locals. Of course it’s not always been this way. Here’s the cliff notes to the journey so far...
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WHAT’S ON HÖRÐUR’S EXILE
In 1975, Hörður Torfason, an up-and-coming singer, scandalised the country when he admitted to being homosexual in an interview in the magazine Samúel. His coming out was groundbreaking for the LGBTQI+ community, but society’s reaction was less than stellar. Faced with hostile reactions and threats, Hörður eventually left the country for a few years while the commotion died down.
EVERY VICTORY WAS HARD EARNED
Much like Hörður Torfason was the “first (openly) gay man” in Iceland, Anna Kristjánsdóttir was the “first (openly) trans person” in Iceland. Anna didn’t get the support she needed from the Icelandic medical system, so she went abroad to finish the transition and came out as trans while she lived in Sweden in the 90s. Amazingly, Anna was the only out trans person in Iceland and faced an uphill struggle to gain acceptance.
BUT IT’S GETTING BETTER
Ever since 1940, the year ’gay sex’ stopped being a punishable offence in Iceland, there has been glacially slow but steady (they have power, those glaciers) progress towards acceptance in Iceland. Rigid gender roles and strict heteronormativity have slowly made way for a more liberal attitude towards sex, love and life from the general population.
THERE HAVE BEEN MILESTONES…
The LGBTQI+ community in Iceland have today have many legal rights that seemed unthinkable just a few decades ago. Confirmed cohabitation, a substitute for marriage with some of the legal rights, came first, followed by the right to adopt, and finally, in 2010, individuals of the same sex could get married, a ruling that’s given birth to a thriving elopement and wedding industry.
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Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir
AND PIONEERS…
Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir has been a prominent politician in Iceland for decades. In 2009, she made international news when she not only became the first female prime minister of Iceland, but also the first openly lesbian prime minister in the world. Her wife, Jónína, is a writer, who, in 2013 published their love story after having to keep their relationship private for decades.
BUT THINGS AREN’T PERFECT YET
When Hörður Torfason returned to Iceland after his informal exile, he and some other enterprising people founded Samtökin ’78 (that simply translates to The ‘78 Organisation), Iceland’s most prominent LGBTQ+ rights association. Samtökin ‘78 have spent decades educating the public in Iceland and fighting for the rights of their members. Unfortunately, there’s still a need for Samtökin – the fight for equality isn’t over yet. For more information, visit www.hinsegindagar.is/en.
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Pride events Synchronized Swimming with The Eternity Burlesque queen Margrét Erla Maack and theatre vixen sister Vigdís Perla Maack host a fun for all synchronized swimming class. Be part of a beautiful floating pattern, what’s not to love? Matching swimming caps provided. Class starts at 6pm in the pool. Be there or be a square pattern. Price ISK 1,000 ISK (The cost of entrance to Vesturbæjar pool). August 3, 6:00 pm – 6:45 pm Vesturbæjarlaug Rainbow Conference Parallel to parades, parties and bingo nights, Reykjavík Pride hosts a range of educational events designed to engage with political and social debate and education issues related to the LGBTQIA+ community. Pride’s Rainbow Conference runs at our Pride center and at Grófin City Library. For more details check the program. All events on the conference’s agenda will be interpreted to Icelandic sign language. August 3 - 4, 12:00 pm– 6:30 pm Geirsgata 9 og Grófarsafn Family Rainbow Festival Reykjavík Pride invites you to join in a fun afternoon of events especially for kids. Face painting and a drag show are a part of the program, as well as outdoor games and activities. Expect unicorns, fairies, dinosaurs and glitter. August 3, 4:30 pm– 6:30 pm. The Family Rainbow Festival will take place at Dalur, Family Café, located at Sundlaugavegur 34. Viðlag choir Local favourites, the Viðlag choir have been selling out shows with their repertoire of high-energy musical numbers. Solos, duos, trios and all-in ensembles are guaranteed to lift the roof. Viðlag’s last show in the National Theatre cellar was jammed to the rafters - get your tickets early and don’t miss out on this queer musical extravaganza. Early bird tickets: 4,500 ISK Regular tickets: 5,500 ISK, August 3, 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Tjarnarbíó
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Drag Afternoon Tea Reykjavík’s fabulous coterie of drag queens will surely get you into the weekend mode while you enjoy fabulous music, food platters, bawdy banter and salty puns, served with a side of fabulousness. Limited number of tickets. Price is 5,990 ISK. August 5, 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm Sólon, Bankastræti 7a Queer Cruise Ahoy salty land lubers, the queer cruise is a-setting sail around the wee isles off the coast of Reykjavík. A unique opportunity to view the city from a fresh perspective and express solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the queer whale and dolphin community. Feature fantastic music as well as special offers at the bar. The ship sets sail at 7:30 p.m. from the Old Harbour in Reykjavík, a few minutes walk from the city center. Don’t be late. Limited availability. Tickets are 3,500 ISK. August 5, 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm From Ægisgarður - the old Reykjavik harbor Reykjavík Pride Parade The biggest event and climax of Pride is of course the Pride parade. Locals gather downtown to witness the spectacle and celebrate everyone’s right to live and love as they choose. The parade departs from Hallgrímskirkja at 14:00 and ends up at Hljómskálagarður for an outdoor concert. Performers include fabulously well-known Icelandic singers, bands and entertainers. Behave! August 6, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Starts Hallgrímskirkja Church For further information: www.hinsegindagar.is/en/
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Thermal swi m m ing pools
Hot t ubs and jacuzzi
Saunas, steambat hs
Admission April 2022. Price is subject to change
Reykjavík´s Thermal Pools
The place to meet locals
Admission Adults 1.100 isk. Children 175 isk.
Free entry for children 0-5 years old and senior citizens aged 67 and over
Thermal pools and baths in Reykjavik are a source of health, relaxation and pureness. All of the city´s swimming pools have several hot tubs with temperatures ranging from 37˚ to 42˚C (98˚–111˚F). The pools are kept at an average temperature of 29˚ C (84˚ F)
www.itr.is
Tel: +354 411 5000
WHAT’S ON
REYKJAVÍK CULTURE NIGHT Celebrating all things cultural, Reykjavík throws open the doors of its studios, galleries, and museums for a night of special events celebrating all things cultural. There’s so much going on that it’s not possible to see everything, so it’s well worth checking out the program and making a plan - or you can just head out and follow your nose, it’s too big to miss. The Arts, you may have noticed, are quite the thing in Reykjavík, and there’s a (proportionately) huge arts community here. Culture night reflects this and has evolved from a mini festival to one of the biggest events in the Reykjavík social calendar. The festival celebrates culture in the broadest sense, high, low and middle brows are all accommodated in a program that includes popular music, dance, classical, hip - hop, jazz, techno, experimental music, food, theatre - even sport gets a
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WHAT’S ON look in. The festival’s schedule changes annually, but some aspects of the festival have been there for years, like free concerts and a very rad fireworks display.
EVENTS
Concerts, big and small
Outdoor concert in Kexport, KEX
Some of Iceland’s most popular musicians will be gathering up their instruments for the outdoor concerts around the city centre. Hljómskálagarður park is the location of a series of concerts over the course of the day, as well as Arnarhóll hill right by Harpa Concert Hall. In addition, there are smaller gigs, performances and open houses across the city.
Fireworks show
The grand finale of Reykjavík Culture night is the fireworks display. After a hard day’s night soaking up culture, the crowds mass by Arnarhóll hill to be mesmerised by Iceland’s biggest annual fireworks show. It starts at 11:00, when it’s just dark enough. After the display, the night is still young, and the town is all abuzz with revellers and music. Please note that because of the festival, parts of the city centre will be closed off from traffic, so leave your car at home. To get downtown, use the bus. City buses will be free of charge during the festival, but note that some bus routes might be disrupted due to street closures in the city centre.
Check out Reykjavík’s vibrant and energetic grassroots music at Kex. Teeming bar and hostel Kex is located in a former biscuit factory. Kex (meaning biscuit) hosts regular gigs and is the spiritual home of the Reykjavík garage band. Culture night at Kex is a great opportunity to experience the fun and boundless enthusiasm of Iceland’s grassroots rock, pop and dance music scene. From 14:00 until 21:00.
Hugleikur’s adventure world by Reykjavíkurtjörn
Theatre company Hugleikur invites guests to a program of original plays and dramas this Culture night. In between performances there’s a photobooth set up and guests can try on costumes and theatre make-up and snap off a photo or two.
Ásmundasalur
A stone’s throw from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, groovy modernist architectural gem Ásmundasalur throws open its doors and spills out onto its beautifully manicured grounds for an evening of live music and contemporary art.
Kliður in the National Gallery of Iceland
Choir and art collective, Kliður brings together composers, visual artists, poets, performing artists and musicians. The collective’s members compose and perform each other’s work. Culture night’s performance will include a response to the collective member Margrét H. Blöndal’s exhibition Ode to Join also running in the gallery.
Closing ceremony fireworks.
As the night draws to a close and the museums, galleries and studios close their doors, the masses make their way to Arnarhóll hill for the grand Finale of culture night. Going out with a bang not a whimper, all eyes turn to the heavens for a fireworks display (the northern lights have been known to show up). After that, well the night is still young, and the town is all buzzing. Show starts at 11:00, 20 Aug.
For more events and information, check out www.culturenight.is.
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K l a p p a r s t í g 2 8 –3 0
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kokteilbarinn.is
WHAT’S ON
LIVING IN A HIKERS’ PARADISE
Dust off your backpack and hiking boots, it’s time to discover Iceland on foot. Why you ask? Because Iceland has some of the best hiking trails in the world! As you probably know, Iceland is a volcanic island filled with mountains and natural wonders, many of which are easily accessible. In fact, Iceland is so crammed with natural wonders that you’re never far away from a great hike.
Hiking through Iceland’s beautiful wilderness is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be dangerous if you’re not sure what you’re doing. If you’re unfamiliar with Icelandic nature, consider taking a guided tour. Available guided tours include everything from a stroll through downtown Reykjavík to a multi-day hike in the Icelandic highlands. Contact the What’s On information office for more information.
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO? I want to climb a mountain!
Before you set off into Iceland’s untamed nature, it’s vital that you prepare for your trip accordingly. Plan your route so you know exactly where you’re going, and let someone else know as well. Check the weather forecast before you head out. Make sure you have the right equipment! Wear good boots and dress appropriately.
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Mt. Esjan, the mountain visible from the city centre, is one of the most popular hiking spots for locals in Reykjavík. Just step on a bus and get off at the visitor centre at the foot of the mountain! There are several ways up the mountain, and the most popular one takes you straight up the hill, alongside a babbling brook, and offers a view of the city and the surrounding area. The trail leads all the way to the top, but about an hour’s hike will take you to Steinn, a big rock marking the spot where most people stop and head back. The slightly less steep Úlfarsfell or Helgafell might be a good choice for those who haven’t gone hiking in a while.
I want to hike to a waterfall
Why not hike up to Glymur, Iceland’s second tallest waterfall? It used to be considered the tallest waterfall in Iceland, but not so long ago, a new one
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far into the mountains was discovered that’s even taller! Getting there is very difficult, however, so most people stick to Glymur, with an easy hike a short distance from the city. There are a few ways to get to the waterfall, but the easiest one (and the one that requires no fording of rivers) takes about 45 minutes either way. You’ll be rewarded with an amazing view of water thundering down an almost 200m drop!
discovered on foot! Following the exclusion of sheep, who love to nibble on birch saplings, Þórsmörk has been transformed into a green oasis. There is an oft-cited joke about finding your way when lost in an Icelandic forest: just stand up. However, since the sheep have moved out, the trees have become very tall, making Þórsmörk one of the few forests in Iceland where it is, in fact, possible to get lost!
I want to hike for several days
I want to go off the beaten track
The most famous hiking trail in Iceland is called Laugavegur, a hike of approximately 55km in the highlands. The hike takes you through two nature reserves, with a wide variety of landscapes and several river crossings along the way. You walk from the red and yellow mountains of Landmannalaugar through lava fields with bubbly geothermal areas to the birch forests of Þórsmörk. The trail is well marked, with trekking huts along the way, but it’s also possible to camp (and since the huts are often fully booked, it might be necessary!). Usually, people take four days to complete the Laugavegur trail. Note that the trail usually opens for the summer in late June!
Hornstrandir in the Westfjords is Iceland’s northernmost peninsula. It’s a nature reserve known for its dazzling cliffs, rich birdlife, and amazing sea views. It takes a bit of travelling to get there, but the hiking opportunities in this area are totally worth it! From Ísafjörður, you can take the ferry to Hesteyri where there are plenty of hiking options. And the best thing is, the area is the natural habitat of the arctic fox. In isolated, uninhabited areas like Hornstrandir, arctic foxes feel more at ease around humans and are therefore easier to spot.
I want to see a forest!
Nestled between two glaciers, Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, and surrounded by active volcanoes, Þórsmörk can be thought of as Iceland in miniature; intersected by fresh glacial rivers, the area is home to rumbling waterfalls, lofty mountains, and a rich array of birdlife. What’s more, the area is best
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WHAT’S ON
7 Things to Know About the Icelandic Horse First things first: It’s not a pony!
Yes, Icelandic horses stand, on average, 140 cm to their withers. And, yes, that’s well within the parameters of a “pony” (read, anything shorter than 147 cm). But they’re horses, plain and simple, because, well, Icelanders say so. Squat, muscular, and built to withstand the elements, the Icelandic horse is the embodiment of how Iceland likes to view itself: small but mighty.
They’re very friendly
The Icelandic horse has earned a reputation at home and abroad for being easy-going and friendly. Like well-trained dogs. Which is funny, considering how impolite some Icelanders can be – the language doesn’t even have a word for “please.” Their temperaments can be attributed to nature, since their genetics are so protected (more on that later), or nurture, since Icelanders tend to treat their beloved horses like members of the family. So their
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relaxed attitudes may just be a result of the horses’ relaxed lifestyles.
They have a fancy walk
The Icelandic horse is good at a lot of different types of walking and can perform five gaits. The three common horse gaits are walk, trot, and canter, but the Icelandic horse can also pace and tölt. Tölt is a four-beat lateral gait that comes naturally to the Icelandic horse. It’s a sped-up version of walking but much more impressive as the horses lift their front legs up high, with only one hoof touching the ground at any time. Tölt is a very useful gait for Iceland’s often uneven ground, providing a steady ride. It was presumably the gentlest on the riders’ backside back when horses were the main mode of transportation. That said, not all Icelandic horses can tölt, and those that can are usually trained to do it properly.
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WHAT’S ON So when you take a riding tour, be sure to ask for a horse that can tölt, so you get to experience a truly unique trait of the Icelandic horse.
They’re guaranteed purebred
Following an unsatisfactory attempt to crossbreed Icelandic and oriental breeds, Iceland’s Viking parliament moved to prevent the degradation of their horses’ genes by forbidding horse imports to Iceland as far back as the year 982. This is the kind of thing you can do when you live on an island. That means Iceland’s horses have been purebred for over 1000 years. As a result, there are also remarkably few livestock diseases in the country – and authorities keep it that way by even prohibiting riders bringing their own saddles or riding boots with them to Iceland. The Icelandic horse’s forefathers first arrived with Viking settlers from the British Isles, between 860 and 935 AD. While they’re known ancestors of Shetland, Highland and Connemara ponies, they also have some genetic similarities to the Mongolian horse, which arrived in Scandinavia through Russia.
They can never come home again
No, Icelandic horses don’t spend their days reading Thomas Wolfe, rather those same restrictions that prevent the import of other breeds from abroad also apply to any Icelandic horse that leaves the island. They can’t return to Iceland. As a result, Icelanders participating in international riding competitions never take their best horse along, since they will likely sell it before heading home. The crème de la crème of Icelandic horses are kept in Iceland to compete domestically or breed.
They’re part of Iceland’s heritage
Icelandic horses feature heavily throughout the country’s history books. In the Book of Settlement of Iceland, chieftain Sela-Þórir established his settlement at the place where his mare Skálm decided to rest. Meanwhile, in Hrafnkel’s Saga, Njál’s Saga, Grettir’s Saga, and others, horses play important roles in fights, as status symbols, and as plot devices. For example, when the epic hero Gunnar á Hlíðarenda falls to the ground when his horse trips, he looks at his beautiful country and decides to stay rather than be outlawed, which ultimately leads to his death. In Norse mythology, the most famous equine is, of course, Óðinn’s eight-legged steed Sleipnir. Icelandic horses have the standard four legs, but it can look like eight when they’re zipping along at flying pace.
You can ride one any time
Possibly the best thing about the Icelandic horse from a visitor’s perspective is that you can ride one just about any time. There are riding centres all over the country offering riding tours so visitors can experience Iceland’s uniquely beautiful nature from the back of Iceland’s uniquely wonderful horses. Thanks to their aforementioned temperament and size, the Icelandic horse is ideal for inexperienced riders taking a shorter tour, and their smooth gaits make them comfortable for more experienced riders looking to spend a whole day in the saddle.
Book your horse riding tour on WhatsOn.is
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LAUGAVEGUR
HIKING TRAIL Landmannalaugar is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Iceland. The magnificent landscapes are made more stunning still due to geothermal activity – mountains in all the colours of the rainbow and geothermal hot springs. In fact, Landmannalaugar means “the People’s Pools” so if you’re a person, it’s for you! Bus Transfer A number of bus companies offer transfers to and from the area, allowing you to arrive at one end of the trail and departing from the other. A no-hiking option There is also a way to see the sights of the Laugavegur hiking trail without having to spend four days walking. Taking a super-jeep tour to Landmannalaugar or Þórsmörk will allow you to see these natural wonders for yourself.
Contact info@whatson.is or stop by the What’s On Information Office on Laugavegur for more information.
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To get there, you can either go by bus, or take a private day tour, depending on your budget and preference. The trail from Landmannalaugar south to Þórsmörk is called Laugavegur (The Hot Spring Route) and is 53 km, or roughly a four-day walk. The starting point is Landmannalaugar (600 m altitude above sea level), and along the route, there are huts for accommodation and campsites. Huts need to be booked well ahead, as the spots fill up quickly. Note that wild camping outside designated campsites is forbidden. You can catch the bus out from Þórsmörk or add an extra day and continue down to Skógar for an even longer hike. The trail between Skógar and Þórsmörk is called Fimmvörðuháls and is slightly shorter than Laugavegur, or about 23-25 km. It’s also a popular single day hike on its own. More ambitious hikers might consider hiking from south to north, going from Skógar to Landmannalaugar, as it is more challenging to go uphill. If the four-day hike seems daunting however, Þórsmörk has plenty of options for single day hikes of varying difficulty.
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Descend 120 meters into a volcano that erupted 4.000 years ago
One of twenty places in the world you must see before you die. - CNN The world feels a little more remarkable having seen the inside of its machinery. - Financial Times -
Book your adventure at
InsideTheVolcano.com
NEW!
Puffin Rescue Centre & Aquarium
Little White
Select Bay Boat Trips to see the World’s first Beluga Whale Sanctuary
Little Grey
Visitor Centre Open Daily, including Puffin Rescue Centre & Aquarium
Tour our visitor centre to hear the fascinating story of Little White & Little Grey, our famous resident Beluga Whales! See the centre’s local species aquarium and heart-warming puffin rescue centre before taking a trip out to the bay to see the whales. Aegisgata 2, Vestmannaeyjar 900
+354 620 2724
School & Group Rates available, contact us now for details
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belugasanctuary.sealifetrust.org
WHAT’S ON
7 FUN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN REYKJAVÍK Reykjavík is an amazing place to travel with kids at any time of year. It’s bursting with colourful houses, squares and parkettes, and interactive museums that encourage young (and old) imaginations to flourish. Here are a few of our favourite things to do with kids in Reykjavík. Soak up some culture
We’re of the opinion that you’re never too young for museums. Reykjavík has a lot to choose from, but those that we’ve found to be most kid-approved have an interactive element or two. The Maritime Museum will teach the whole family about Iceland’s fishing tradition from the olden days up to modern times, while allowing kids to dress up like fishermen, go on a scavenger hunt through the exhibit, and try their hand stacking crates of fish with a forklift. The Settlement Exhibition Reykjavík 871±2 is another family favourite. Built around the remains of a Viking longhouse excavated smackdab in the middle of Reykjavík, the museum tells the story of Reyjavík’s settlement (in the year 871, give or take
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a couple years) with interactive screens to learn more about the rocky remains. There’s also a room where kids can dress as Viking settlers and play old games. Also great for families travelling with younger members are the Árbær Open Air Museum, with its turf houses and olden-day charm, and the National Museum of Iceland, which has a room for families to enjoy.
Meet the ducks
Reykjavík’s central pond, Tjörnin, is home to a healthy population of ducks, geese and swans, in part thanks to its proximity to Vatnsmýri, a protected wetland and bird sanctuary, to the south. A stroll around the pond is a great way to spot the pairs of ducks floating around and doing their thing. Feeding bread to the ducks is frowned upon – and not allowed at all over the summer when ducklings arrive – but if you happen to have frozen peas or birdseed in your pocket, feel free to toss that for your new beaked buddies. Expect to see mallards, gadwall, greater scaup, tufted ducks and teal, plus greylag geese and
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WHAT’S ON Kids that don’t have the patience (or the stomach) for a three-hour tour might opt for a visit to Whales of Iceland, where they can come face to face with the true scale of the gentle giants of the sea, learn about whales and play on the orca-themed climbing structure.
Go inside a glacier
swans. There’s also a sign on the north end of the pond (by City Hall) with descriptions of some birds you might spot in the area.
Go for a dip
Iceland’s thermal pools are good for swimming laps and lounging around in, but they’re also tons of fun for kids. Many locations have kids pools, with fountains and slides for the littlest ones, and bigger kids will get a thrill out of the bigger slides with their twists and turns. Just remember: shower with soap before suiting up and jumping in.
Ride a horse
Even if you’re not a family of avid equestrians, you can enjoy a day on horseback in Iceland. Icelandic horses are known for their calm and friendly nature, making them perfect for inexperienced adults or children to ride – plus they’re shorter than horses you find in other parts of the world, so climbing into the saddle is less intimidating an experience. Always check the minimum age requirements before booking a riding tour, but some will welcome kids as young as 7-years old. It’ll be an unforgettable experience for kids of all ages.
Hit the high seas
Introduce your kids to whales while in Iceland. A number of whale-watching tours depart from Reykjavík’s old harbour year-round, taking you out on Faxaflói Bay or a chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. There’s a real thrill in the hunt, and the excitement onboard goes through the roof at the sight of a humpback’s mighty fluke slapping the water. Go later in the spring or during the summer to also see puffins, which are not the most graceful of birds – kids and adults will get a laugh as they crash-land on the water’s surface.
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For an activity that your kids will be ooh-ing and ahh-in over long after you’ve departed Iceland, take them inside a glacier. A tour atop Langjökull glacier and into a man-made tunnel dug into it a few years back is a suitable adventure for the whole family. Those travelling with adventurous kids 6-years or older are also able to take a tour of the natural ice cave in Katlajökull glacial tongue, part of the glacier covering the mighty Katla volcano. Don’t feel like schlepping to a real glacier? Perlan has brought the ice cave experience to Reykjavík. Just catch a shuttle to the glass-domed building on Öskjuhlíð to visit Perlan’s Ice Cave and Glacier Exploratorium, the world’s first indoor ice cave. There’s also an ice cream parlour and cafe at Perlan, which you definitely won’t find atop a real glacier.
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Visit Laugardalur
If it’s a nice day to spend outdoors, there are few better places to be than in Reykjavík’s Laugardalur neighbourhood. Take the kids to the Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo to meet Icelandic farm animals, plus foxes, seals and reindeer. Let them run wild and jump on the air trampoline in the park’s expansive play area, and then wind down with a stroll through Reykjavík’s Botanic Garden. It’ll be a day well spent just outside the city centre. If you’re spending a day or two exploring Reykjavík’s museums and swimming pools, consider buying the Reykjavík City Card. Available for 24hr, 48hr, and 72hr periods for kids and adults, it gives you access to museums, swimming pools, public transport, and more at one low price.
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WHAT’S ON
BEST WHALE WATCHING SPOTS AROUND ICELAND
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Do you want to have a whale of a time? The waters around Iceland are the natural habitat of these gentle giants, so this is the perfect place to spot them. Baleen whales are a migratory species, and most travel long distances to tropical waters in winter and back to polar regions in summer. The best season for whale watching in Iceland is, therefore, between April and October. Going on a whale watching tour and actively searching for whales is an exciting and unique experience! Whale watching in the Capital Area
You don’t have to travel far to go on a whale safari, as Reykjavík offers good options for whale watching. Different whale watching companies have regular departures from the Old Harbour area. White-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises are seen year-round in Faxaflói bay, a large bay next to Reykjavík, stretching from Reykjanes to Snæfellsnes. In the summertime, there are regular sightings of humpback whales and minke whales. You can choose to go on a bigger boat with a refreshment bar, or on a small RIB. The bigger boats have snug inside areas that offer shelter from bad weather, but the small boats have the advantage that you can get very close to oceanic wildlife. At the ticket offices, you can ask for complimentary
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WHAT’S ON motion sickness pills, but don’t worry, tours are cancelled if the waves are too high.
Whale watching outside the Capital Area
You can also see whales outside of the Capital Area. In wintertime, the fishing town Grundarfjörður is where it’s all at. The bay is filled with herring feeding on phytoplankton. Now, seeing breaching herring is probably not the reason why you travelled to Iceland. However, this herring aggregation attracts all kinds of cetaceans, like dolphins, porpoises, and most importantly, killer whales! Can you think of anything more spectacular than seeing a pack of killer whales swim by? There are also excellent whale watching opportunities in North Iceland. The town Húsavík is also known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, because of the many whales in its bay, Skjálfandi bay. Humpback whales, blue whales, minke whales, pilot whales, and sperm whales are often sighted. Because of the deep waters in the bay, there is also a higher chance of seeing rare species like the basking shark, the northern bottlenose whale, and the beluga!
Combo tours – whales and puffins
In summer, puffin colonies are found all around Iceland. The first small flocks arrive in April, and the last ones leave in September, but the best months to see puffins are between May and August. Most whale watching companies offer whale and puffin combination tours. For puffin spotting, it’s best to be on a small boat and to bring binoculars. Puffins are tiny, and the closer you can get to them, the better the experience will be! These puffin tours are possible from Reykjavík. Just off the coast of the city, puffins breed each year on three small islands. Next to puffins and whales, common sights during these tours include arctic terns and the great skua.
Whales of Iceland exhibition
Whales of Iceland is an exhibition in the Grandi area of Reykjavík. It showcases 23 man-made life-size models of whale species that occur in Icelandic waters, like a 25m long blue whale and a full-size sperm whale. It offers a great opportunity to see the actual sizes of these whales (they are even bigger than you think!) and to learn interesting facts about each whale at the same time by reading plaques and watching videos. Educational and fun! Contact info@whatson.is or stop by the What’s On Information Office on Laugavegur for more information.
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COMMON SIGHTS Minke whale: a small baleen whale measuring 7m to 8m in length, weighing between 5 to 10 tonnes. It’s black and grey, has a dorsal fin, and will live for 30 to 50 years. It’s not likely to breach, so look for its back and dorsal fin during a tour. Also called “stinky minkes” because they smell of rotten fish. Humpback whale: a large baleen whale measuring 12m to 16m in length and weighing about 36 tonnes. It has long pectoral fins, a stubby dorsal fin, and a knobbly head. They are known for breaching, their high spouts of water, and for showing off their flukes as they go for deeper dives! White-beaked dolphin: the most common dolphin in Icelandic waters. It is 2.5m to 3m in length and weighs up to 350kg. They are often spotted in big groups, sometimes hundreds together! They love playing, jumping out of the water, and splashing about. Harbour porpoise: the smallest cetacean around Iceland. They are only 1.5m to 2m in length and weigh 55kg to 70kg. They are usually quite shy but sometimes jump out of the water and play with the whale watching boats.
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Get Out of Town There’s more to Iceland than Reykjavík Reykjavík is a great city, and we wholeheartedly recommend spending some time there, just not all your time. Iceland is at its very best during these short summer months, and you simply need to leave the city for a while and take it all in.
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HOW TO TRAVEL
There are a few ways to get out of town, depending on your preferences. If you’re unfamiliar with the country and want to learn more, taking a guided tour might suit your needs. Reykjavík tourism companies offer tours almost all over the country, some short enough to fit into your afternoon, others longer, so just figure out where you want to go and book your trip. If you prefer a little more freedom to explore on your own, renting a car is a comfortable option, allowing you to travel at your own pace. Just be careful: conditions in Iceland might be different from what you are used to, even in summer. Be sure to check out Icelandic driving regulations and check the weather forecast before you set off. If driving on your own feels a little too risky, you can always take the bus. The city bus company, Strætó, will take you to some of the larger towns around the country. Other bus companies will take you to great hiking spots or all the way around Iceland.
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WHAT’S ON
WHERE TO GO
Almost wherever you go, you’ll find natural wonders, lovely little towns and all the untamed Icelandic nature you can imagine. Certain regions do have their specific charm, however, so depending on your needs and preferences, here are some destination suggestions. One of the most popular destinations in Iceland is the south coast. This stretch of land between the coast and the mountains is an exercise in contrasts. Verdant farming communities meet jet-black sand beaches, towering glaciers cover imposing volcanoes, and still and clear lakes reside next to thundering waterfalls and erupting geysers. If you don’t have the time to stray too far from the city, exploring the Reykjanes peninsula might be just up your alley. Just a short drive away from the city, this area has still lakes, lava fields, and colourful geothermal areas as well as charming little fishing villages. The Snæfellsnes peninsula is often described as a microcosm of Iceland. Black beaches, hot springs, charming fishing villages, and the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier overlooking it all are sights that are not to be missed! If you have the time (at least four to five days), you can even drive all the way around the country. Route 1, or the Ring Road follows most of the coastline of Iceland and connects most of the major towns.
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WHAT TO DO
If you have a car, you might just want to find a town to stay in and explore the surrounding region. During the summer season, many towns host festivals that are well worth checking out. Some of the big festivals include Fishermen’s Day at the beginning of June and Icelandic National Day on June 17. If you’re feeling active, go hiking in Iceland at the end of June. Not only is there a chance of good weather, but popular hiking trails in the highlands are only open in summer. The most popular multiday hike is the Laugavegur hiking trail, which usually opens in late June, but if you can’t wait that long, hiking up Mt. Esja or the hot spring-filled Reykjadalur valley are great day trips close to Reykjavík. If you’re simply keen to explore the nature and landscapes of Iceland, driving around the country, stopping for hikes and picnics, is a great way to spend your days. Look for the sign with a square with looped corners indicating interesting spots ahead.
If you want to be prepared for your trip, contact the What’s On office on Laugavegur and get some advice!
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Check out the article Reykjavik Sights to See on pages 40-41 for more information about the places numbered here.
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REYKJAVÍK CIT Y MAP i
What’s On Tourist Information and Booking Centre Locations Main areas
Sights
Tour Pick Ups
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WHAT’S ON
Reykjavík sights to see Reykjavík sightseeing has something for everyone! The city is filled with things to do, places to go, and stuff to see, but some things are just a little bit more important than others.
Check out the map in the centre of the magazine to find the exact location of these Reykjavík sights.
1 HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA Hallgrímskirkja church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. It’s the largest church and the 6th tallest architectural structure in Iceland. The church tower offers a fantastic view of the city. It’s named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Petursson, author of the Passion Hymns. The architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, designed it to resemble the basalt lava column flows of Iceland’s landscape. Construction started in 1945 and was finished in 1984. 2 PERLAN Standing at 25m, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings. Built on top of the city’s hot water tanks, Perlan is known for its unique architecture. Inside Perlan, you can visit Wonders of Iceland, an exhibition spread over multiple levels. A visit to a real ice cave, planetarium shows, exhibitions on Iceland’s history, glaciers, volcanoes, and water, and a spectacular 360° viewing platform are all included in a ticket. On the top floor, there is a restaurant and coffeehouse for guests in need of refreshment. Surrounding Perlan is the Öskjuhlíð area, one of the many green spaces in Reykjavík, perfect for a walk on a sunny day. 3 TJÖRNIN Tjörnin (The Pond) is the heart of the city centre and offers some of the most amazing views in Reykjavík. There is no better place in the city to enjoy a beautiful sunset, and you can watch or feed a huge variety of birdlife that calls the lake home while you’re at it. When the lake freezes over in winter, geothermal water is pumped in to defrost an area for the birds and feeding them is a popular family pastime all year round. Those who can handle the cold take to the lake on ice skates. 4 AUSTURVÖLLUR When the sun is shining, Austurvöllur is the place to be. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants, this public square is a popular spot for locals to dine outside, soak up some sunshine or recline on the grass with picnics. In fact, whatever the season, Austurvöllur is the place to be. It’s used for celebrations on holidays, and in December, the city’s biggest Christmas tree is located there. Due to its proximity to The House of Parliament, Austurvöllur is also a popular gathering spot for political protesters. At the centre of it all stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the renowned figure who is credited with leading Iceland to independence.
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Check out our centerfold map for the locations of these sights
WHAT’S ON 5 HLEMMUR The Hlemmur bus terminal has been a city centre fixture for decades – although the reason for its popularity has changed. It was transformed into a food hall a couple years back, it’s difficult to imagine Hlemmur square without it. The food hall attracts a fun crowd, and the place is booming! With Neapolitan pizza, LA-style tacos, gourmet burgers, gelatos, and specialities from the Michelin Bib Gourmandawarded Skál, there’s something for everybody!
6 HARPA The whole 28,000m2 of Harpa stand at the edge of Reykjavík Harbour. It houses Iceland’s biggest concert hall, suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events, a conference centre with meeting facilities and in-house catering, as well as a couple of fine restaurants. Harpa also hosts promotions, plays, and public events. Harpa was designed by a Danish firm in cooperation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist, and opened to the public in 2011. 7 THE OLD HARBOUR Though it’s the oldest harbour in its original form, Reykjavík’s Old Harbour is no longer the busiest for freight. Instead, it’s an oft-visited area where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals, and tour operators. You will also find numerous whale watching companies willing to take you out to sea on unforgettable excursions. The area is filled with excellent restaurants (pizza, seafood, burgers, etc.) and cafés. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty, and there are plenty of interesting activities to check out. 8 THE SUN VOYAGER A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to downtown Reykjavík. The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and is an ode to the sun. It serves as a reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland. The Sun Voyager looks its best when the sun is setting, at whatever time that may be. The unforgettable view of the sculpture with a backdrop of the ocean and Mt. Esja is every photographer’s dream. 9 HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT Founded in 950 AD, Iceland’s Parliament, Alþingi, is the oldest extant parliament in the world! For centuries, the Parliament gathered in the open air (on the aptly named Þingvellir, Parliament Fields), but in recent years, the members of Parliament have met in Reykjavík. The House of Parliament is a modest classical building of hewn Icelandic dolerite, and it gives Austurvöllur square a dignified look. The Parliament garden behind the building is small but lovely in the summertime. 10 LAUGARDALSLAUG Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Icelanders’ favourite pastime is going swimming. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, located in Laugardalur valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, an outdoor children’s pool and a paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, a steam bath, gym, and a mini-golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day or a cold one for that matter. Right outside, you will find a hot dog stand where you can buy traditional Icelandic hot dogs.
Check out our centerfold map for the locations of these sights
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WHAT’S ON
Museums in Downtown Reykjavík Reykjavík’s history reaches more than a thousand years into the past, and the city has a rich cultural heritage. What better way to learn more about Icelandic culture than visiting the city centre’s museums?
Hafnarhús serves as the museum’s institute of contemporary art, where new developments in art are explored through rotating exhibitions. An exhibition of paintings by well-known pop artist Erró is a permanent feature. Kjarvalsstaðir is devoted to one of Iceland’s most influential painters, Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval, and Ásmundarsafn is the former home and workshop of sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson. 3
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THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION
THE REYKJAVÍK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY
The Museum of Photography’s main objective is to present both historical and contemporary photography in an artistic, social, and cultural context, as well as to nurture public and scholarly interest in photography. The collection’s themes range from family photographs to photos from portrait studios, industrial and advertising photography, press photography, landscape photography, and more.
In 2001, archaeological remains of a settlement-era hall were excavated, which was inhabited from 930-1000. North of the hall, two pieces of a turf wall were found, which were built before 871. These findings are the oldest relics of human habitation found in Reykjavík. An innovative, interactive exhibition gives an impression of what life was like in those times. Objects from the age of settlement found in central Reykjavík and on Viðey island are also on display. 4
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THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND
THE REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM
The Reykjavík Art Museum has three locations: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn.
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The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at the National Museum of Iceland. The museum was established in 1863, and it gives an insight into Iceland’s cultural heritage from the time of the settlement up to modern times. There’s a permanent exhibition of Icelandic history and culture from the settlement era on, as well as temporary exhibitions highlighting specific eras or aspects of Iceland’s cultural heritage.
Check out our centerfold map for the locations of these sights
WHAT’S ON 5
THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND
Established in 1884, the National Gallery boasts an art collection that mainly comprises 19th- and 20thcentury artworks. The Gallery possesses many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. There is also a considerable emphasis placed on contextualising Icelandic art internationally. The Gallery hosts exhibitions from both contemporary and historical artists, and an exhibition showcasing Iceland’s art history is currently on display in the House of Collections on Hverfisgata.
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includes over 2,200 works donated by artists, representatives, and collectors. It is located in the Marshall House, which also houses the gallery Kling & Bang, the studio of Ólafur Elíasson, and the Italian restaurant La Primavera.
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THE MARITIME MUSEUM
Located inside a former fish-freezing plant, the Maritime Museum currently showcases two exhibitions. The permanent Fish & Folk – 150 years of Fisheries spotlights the historical importance of fishing for the Icelandic nation, and Melckmeyt 1659, an exhibition about an underwater archaeological survey conducted near Flatey Island. Guided tours of the former Coast Guard vessel Óðinn are available, the ship that played an important role in Iceland’s 20th-century struggle with the UK known as the Cod Wars.
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NÝLÓ - LIVING ART MUSEUM
The Living Art Museum, or Nýló, is an artist-run museum and exhibition space with the aim of preserving and exhibiting contemporary art. Founded by artists in 1978, the museum presents a strong exhibition programme and is a venue for various events. The Living Art Museum’s collection
Check out our centerfold map for the locations of these sights
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WHAT’S ON
GO SWIMMING! Whether you visit a thermal pool in Reykjavík, a luxurious spa, or a natural pool in the countryside, swimming in Iceland is a unique experience. Nothing beats relaxing in warm water while breathing in fresh cold air.
BEST KID-FRIENDLY POOL
Swimming pools are one of the most kid-friendly activities you can find in Iceland, so the short answer is – all of them! To be more specific, the centrally located Sundhöll has a great outdoor area, and so does Vesturbæjarlaug, but Árbæjarlaug is a hidden gem, a perfect stop if you’re going out of town anyway, and pairs well with a visit to the Árbær Open Air Museum.
BEST POOL TO CHAT WITH LOCALS
Locals love going to the pool, and chilling in a hot tub is a good way to connect to Icelanders. Often, Icelanders meet in the pool and use this time to chat and catch up on the latest developments. Good options for hanging out with locals are Vesturbæjarlaug, Seltjarnarneslaug, and Árbæjarlaug pools.
BEST POOL FOR SERIOUS SWIMMERS
Laugardalslaug
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Laugardalslaug is Reykjavík’s biggest pool and the best one for a long swim. It’s an Olympic-size swimming pool, used for recreational swimming,
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WHAT’S ON
Vesturbæjarlaug
exercise, and competitions. The big indoor pool is also used for training and competitions. Laugardalslaug also offers plenty of hot tubs, cold tubs, and steam baths for relaxation after a healthy swim, and to top it off, a fitness centre and spa are located next to the pool.
BEST POOL FOR A DAY TRIP
Basically every town in Iceland has its own pool. Almost all of them are beautifully located, next to mountains and overlooking fjords and the ocean. If you plan to make a day tour out of your pool visit, head to the Westman Islands and visit Sundhöllin Vestmannaeyjar on Heimaey island. The ferry ride out to the island is an adventure, and there is a great indoor pool, a large outside pool with hot tubs, and cool waterslides.
BEST LUXURY SPA
In need of pampering? You’ve heard of the Blue Lagoon with its milky blue waters and mud masks, but did you know a brand-new spa opened just 10 minutes by car from downtown Reykjavík? Located at the edge of the bay of Kópavogur, the pool offers amazing coastal views. Sky Lagoon boasts a modern approach to traditional Icelandic swimming culture, making it the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink, socialise, and soak in the sun.
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SWIMMING POOLS IN REYKJAVÍK SUMER OPENING HOURS
More info on www.sundlaugar.is
Árbæjarlaug (Tel. 411 4200) Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-22 Grafarvogslaug (Tel. 510 4600) Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-22 Laugardalslaug (Tel. 411 5100) Mon - Thu: 6:30-22 • Fri - Sun: 8-22 Vesturbæjarlaug (Tel. 411 4200)
Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-22
Breiðholtslaug (Tel. 557 5547) Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-22 Klébergslaug (Tel. 566 6879)
Mon - Thu: 11-22 • Fri: 11-19 • Sat - Sun: 11-18
Sundhöllin (Tel. 411 5350) Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 8-22
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DAY TOURS, SCHEDULED FLIGHTS AND CHARTER SERVICES
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+354 562 4200 info@eagleair.is
WHAT’S ON
Keilir
GOLFING
Under the Midnight Sun There are not many places in this world that offer the spectacle of midnight golf, a joy any golf enthusiast has to try at least once in his life. The near 24 hours of sunlight in the summer months allows golfers from around the world to experience this phenomenon. Iceland has golf courses situated in the most picturesque parts of the country, surrounded by untouched wildlife.
Oddur
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ODDUR
Far away from the noise of the city, Oddur Golf Club is one of the gems in the flora of Icelandic golf courses, surrounded by the beautiful valley area of Urriðavatnsdalir. Playing the course is a unique experience. Urriðavöllur, the main course, is one of the few 18-hole golf courses in Iceland, somewhat of a rarity within this young golfing nation. A challenging par 71, Urriðavöllur amounts to a total of 5,900m. Opened in 1997, it is recognised as one of the finest courses in the country, having been honoured with hosting multiple Icelandic championships as well as the European Ladies Team Championship in 2016. Oddur Golf Club also sports an easier-going ninehole practice course named Ljúflingur (Beloved Course), for those looking for a nice day out. Only a short 20-minute drive away from the city centre, Oddur is the perfect getaway from the city for some golf in the midnight sun. Contact: afgreidsla@oddur.is - +354 565-9092, www.oddur.is
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WHAT’S ON
Hlíðavöllur
HLÍÐAVÖLLUR
The Hlíðavöllur course is truly a feast for the eyes. The very first impression is the stunning views and great food in the modern clubhouse. The golf club also has a quaint 9-hole course in the hills of the valley Mosfellsdalur called Bakkakot. The 18-hole Hlíðavöllur championship course offers a spectacular view of the cold beauty of the North Atlantic, overlooking Mt. Esjan, as well as the pristine Snæfellsjökull glacier. It will challenge any golf course in the world in terms of dramatic landscape. Situated in nearby Mosfellsbær, Hlíðavöllur is an ambitious course with lush fairways and clean greens which golfers of all skill levels can enjoy. Like many courses in Iceland, Hlíðavöllur is close to the breeding grounds of local birds. The birds haven’t been taught golfing etiquette yet though, so they’ll be the only thing to distract you while trying to sink that putt for a birdie.
KEILIR
The spectacular views are the perfect backdrop to enjoy midnight golf on this course, which was designed to flow perfectly with the natural surroundings. A rough ocean and coarse lava fields surround the course as the integrity of the site was placed above any preconceived notions of hole sequences, yardage, or par. Mosfellsbær is only a short 10-minute drive away from Reykjavík’s city centre. After the round, the modern clubhouse, featuring local favourite BLIK Bistro & Grill, offers a respite.
Keilir Golf Course is one of the top-ranked golf courses in Iceland, increasingly drawing attention from international guests. It’s a links golf course in Hafnarfjörður, a small town that’s just a 15-minute drive from downtown Reykjavík. The design of the course follows the curves and contours of the land. When playing the Keilir Golf Course, you need to adjust your game to its challenges. Focusing on skill and accuracy will take you farther than power and distance, particularly when dealing with the lava field in the front nine! The toughest hole on the card is the 14th hole played over a small bay. Your drive must be accurate and have some distance to make it to the fairway. The course accommodates both beginners and advanced golfers. Recently, the club opened three new holes on the back nine, which puts more coastline into play. Keilir is a golf course not to be missed!
Contact: Hlíðavöllur, golfmos@golfmos.is +354 566 6999, www.english.golfmos.is
Contact: budin@keilir.is - +354 565-3360, www.keilir.is
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TASTY LOCAL CUISINE By The Old Harbour
Hot
el M arin
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Old Harbour
Nýlendugata 14 101 Reykjavik
HAPPY HOUR 16:00 - 18:00
ICELANDIC RESTAURANT & BAR Table Reservations: 517-1800, forrettabarinn.is
WHAT’S ON
Reykjavík jazz festival
Over its 7-day program, the Reykjavík Jazz Festival hosts a jam-packed program of jazz, blues, funk, and improvisation. Jazz is popular in Scandinavia and the Nordic countries, and Reykjavík’s venues, from the small and intimate to the state-of-the-art Harpa concert hall to Hallgrímskirkja church, play host to a roster of leading international and Icelandic jazzers. The second longest-running music festival in Iceland, the festival includes performances from contemporary and avant-garde performers to Latin jazz, gospel and big bands, drawing acclaimed international jazz players as well as homegrown talent. The venues are best accessed with a JAZZPASS wristband. The pass offers access to all concerts in Harpa Concert Hall and Fríkirkjan church. Jazzpass holders can also attend the final concert “Buchanan Requiem“ in Hallgrímskirkja church. The pass costs 24,900 ISK.
REQUIEM BY JAKOB BUCHANAN
One of the largest events in the festivals over 30-year history is this year’s closer. The award-
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WHAT’S ON winning composition Requiem by Jakob Buchanan combines elements of the Latin mass for the dead, the European choral tradition, Nordic orchestral music, modern jazz music and improvisation. Requiem will be performed by almost 40 musicians in the cavernous and iconic Hallgrímskirkja church on Friday the 19th.
JONATHAN KREISBERG QUARTET
Guitarist Jonathan Kreisberg has been building his name as one of the most compelling composer/ performers in Jazz. Combining timeless melodicism with forward thinking lines and textures. His style and approach has created a following of fans around the world.
SIGGI FLOSA AND THE SOUL PATROL
A jazz/blues crossover project led by saxophonist Sigurdur Flosason. The gig is a release party for two records released during Covid time entitled “Cyanide” from 2021 and “Criminal intent” from 2022. The records feature seven well known singers several of whom will perform. Lyrics about smalltime criminals, psychopaths, stalkers and hopeless drunks and upbeat tunes bring to mind Jacques Brel and Chet Baker.
ÓMAR FORTÍÐAR
Ómar Guðjónsson has spent the last quarter century exploring the sonic possibilities of the guitar. Here he explores the songs he grew up with, reinterpreting popular melodies from the 1930s, 40s and 50s using the pedal steel guitar to revisit and reimagine Iceland’s music heritage.
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WHAT’S ON
NOTABLE EVENTS IN THE HISTORY OF ICELAND 16-18 million years BC: The formation of Iceland. Volcanic eruptions formed the landmass known as Iceland. 871 AD: The settlement. Ingólfur Arnarson killed a man in Norway and fled to Iceland. 930 AD: Alþingi (the Icelandic Parliament) was established. It’s the oldest still existing parliamentary institution in the world. 1000 AD: Conversion to Christianity, the discovery of America. Parliament decided everyone would be Christian or at least pretend to be. Leifur “the Lucky” Eiríksson got lost and found America, didn’t like it, and came home. 1262 AD: Iceland submits to Norway. Iceland’s civil war, waged between powerful clans, was finally resolved when the country forfeited independence and submitted to Norwegian rule (Iceland eventually wound up under Danish rule). 1550 AD: Reformation. A violent conflict between Catholics and Lutherans ended with the beheading of Catholic bishop Jón Arason.
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1602 AD: Monopoly (not the fun kind). The king of Denmark decided Icelanders could only trade with particular Danes, resulting in economic stagnation 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 at Aðalstræti 10. 1944 AD: Independence. Iceland declared independence while Denmark was too busy being invaded by Germany to protest. 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 have picked up surprisingly well. 2009 AD: First openly gay prime minister. The world’s first openly lesbian head of government, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, took office.
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Austurstræti 12 | 101 Reykjavík | Tel: 578-0400 | enskibarinn.is | info@enskibarinn.is
WHAT’S ON
New in Town Sweet Aurora Reykjavik
(Bergstaðastræti 14) Sweet Arora is the first and only French Patisserie in Reykjavík. Classic French pastries, petit fours and macaroons get an icelandic twist with ingredients such as arctic thyme and angelica leaves. Also serving coffee and tea, Sweet Arora is the perfect place for a breakfast date or sweet afternoon rendezvous.
The Roof
(Austurbakki 2) The Roof sits on top of the Edition Hotel, the Marriott hotel’s ‘anti hotel-chain’ chain. There are views of Harpa and the Old Harbour from the terrace and an exotic drinks menu, including an array of ‘wellness cocktails’ incorporating fresh pressed juices and Kombucha so the more you drink, the better you’ll feel.
NorthFace, Hafnartorg Gallery Geirsgata
(Adjacent to the Harpa Concert Hall) ‘There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes’ So goes the Icelandic saying goes. Enter The North Face with a brand new store part of the newly renovated Hafnartorg by Reykjavík’s old harbour. The brand, originally launched in 1968 to supply rock climbers, today provides everything you need to hit the highlands and stay, warm, breathable dry, and instagramable.
Akur Restaurant
Akur Restaurant
(Bryggjugata 4a) Also a part of the newly renovated Hafnartorg, French-Nordic restaurant Akur’s founders hail from a family that stretches back to life at the harbour when Reykjavík was still just a village and fishing and seafood were a way of life. The philosophy at Akur is simple, a French approach to preparing the best Icelandic ingredients available. A comprehensive selection of quality wines are thoughtfully pair them with each dish. Ingredients are seasonal and local whenever possible and the hospitality is distinctly Icelandic
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North Face
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EVENTS NOTABLE EVENTS
REYKJAVÍK PRIDE AUGUST 2 - 7 Since its first outing in 1999, Reykjavík Pride has grown from strength to strength. After a two-year hiatus it’s back and ready to paint the town red, (+ orange, yellow, green, blue, and the other one). Downright celebratory fun is guaranteed for all ages, shapes and sizes. There’s a brainy bit too, with a program of talks and workshops fearlessly engaging with hot button topics, issues and history facing the LGTBQ+ community. All roads lead to the parade on Saturday by Hallgrímskirkja Church and departing at 2.
ALDOUS HARDING AUGUST 15 Musical chameleon Aldous Harding returns to Iceland following the releases of her fourth Album, Warm Chris. The Kiwi singer/songwriter is difficult to pigeonhole, with a sound that veers from catchy pop tunes to a more melancholic introspective folky sound. ‘Pilot’ a track from 2019’s Designer deals with the zeitgeisty anxiety of selecting a tattoo; ‘I get so anxious I need a tattoo, Something binding, that hides me. But when the time comes to design it, It opens up like height under a pilot’. Right? Harding plays Hljómahöll, Keflavík, August 15. H. Hawkline in support.
REYKJAVÍK JAZZ FESTIVAL AUGUST 13 - 19 The 2022 edition of Reykjavík Jazz week presents a week of jazz, blues, fusion and improvised music. Artists from Iceland’s thriving Jazz scene are joined by musicians from across Europe and the U.S. The Festival is the second longest running music festival in Iceland having been held annually for more than 30 years. This year the total number of events will go up to almost 40 and some 200 artists will perform. Venues range from small and intimate bars to the very latest state of the art spaces at Harpa to cavernous acoustic trance inducing church interiors. Check out the website for a detailed program. August 13-19.
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EVENTS NOTABLE EVENTS
CULTURE NIGHT AUGUST 20 The capital’s museums, galleries and all manner of cultural spaces throw their doors open for Reykjavík culture night. The evening rounds off with a bang as all eyes turn to the heavens by Arnarhóll to witness Iceland’s biggest annual pyrotechnics display. As the smoke clears the night is still young and the town is all abuzz with profound critical analysis and Art historical debate well into the small hours. Fireworks starts at 23:00.
ICELANDIC SAGAS - GREATEST HITS Looking for new insights and life advice? Icelandic Sagas offer a nuanced and sophisticated guide to modern dilemmas, viking style. How to get your wife to stop killing your neighbor’s slaves, what to do when someone calls you a horse-ass-eater and how to sue your brother in-law for not living up to your sister’s romantic expectations. Icelandic Saga’s Greatest hits is a 75 minute theatrical comedy roller coaster ride through the 40 Icelandic Sagas. You’ll not hear a word of a lie or exaggeration. The saga’s have been lovingly passed down the generations and preserved on calf-skin manuscripts and are the crown jewels of Icelandic culture. Hear relatable stories of ordinary vikings, facing ordinary viking problems. Move over Oprah.
LUNCHTIME AT THE MUSEUM Every Friday through August lunchtime talks are held at the Reykjavik Art Museum’s Hafnarhús gallery to accompany the museum’s major retrospective exhibition of native son and Pop-Art Maestro Erro. ‘The Power of Images’ is an overview of the artist’s colourful and energetic journey across several media. Following a major retrospective of Erro’s work at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Lyon in 2015 this is the most comprehensive collection of the artist’s work to be presented in Iceland. Free entrance with a museum ticket and for holders of Annual Pass/Culture Pass.
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MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS
EVENTS SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM A Mural without a Wall
A poster and sculpture exhibition relating the story of Sigurjón Ólafsson’s monumental relief Stacking Saltfish, which was originally supposed to decorate the house of the Fish Industry in Reykjavík. In the end, the relief became a free-standing wall in the vicinity of the College of Navigation in Reykjavík. New research revealed severe deterioration in the relief, suggesting that previous repair-work was unsuccessful.
REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN Rósa Gísladóttir and Ásmundur Sveinsson: Spatial Infractions
Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982) pioneered sculpture in Iceland and introduced novel ideas to his compatriots in the 20th century. During this exhibition, contemporary sculptor Rósa Gísladóttir presents her own art in a conversation with the work of Ásmundur Sveinsson.
Spatial Infractions The exhibition aims to offer new insight into Ásmundur’s heritage along with introducing new works by Rósa Gísladóttir to viewers.
great joy that we welcome Aurora Reykjavík – The Northern Lights Centre, where the northern lights are always on display.
AURORA REYKJAVÍK
Aurora Reykjavík’s pull and ace up its sleeve is its fantastic 4k timelapse film of the Aurora Borealis.
Catch the Aurora Borealis All Year Round
There is perhaps nothing more magical than witnessing the beauty of a northern lights display. However, those unpredictable, ever dancing lights don’t always show up on cue – and fade away during the summer months. So, it is with
Aurora Reykjavík’s latest additions are virtual reality goggles featuring the world’s first 360° movie of aurora displays entirely shot in Iceland. If you can’t catch the northern lights yourself, this utterly realistic experience is definitely the next best option to witness the beauty of this truly amazing phenomenon. Capturing the northern lights with your own camera can be challenging, but at Aurora Reykjavík, you receive instruction by the experts: bring your camera and try the right settings at the Northern Lights Photo Simulator. In the exhibition, you will find an entertaining selfie booth – have fun looking all fabulous under the northern lights!
Aurora Reykjavík
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For more information, see www.aurorareykjavik.is.
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monkeys.is
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Klapparstíg 28–30
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Hjartagarðinum
EVENTS MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS
HOME OF AN ARTIST A Window in Reykjavík – Ásgrímur Jónsson’s house
The exhibition A Window in Reykjavík comprises a selection of works by Ásgrímur Jónsson. The common feature of these works is that they relate to the artist’s surroundings in Reykjavík. Ásgrímur Jónsson (1876–1958) is one of the pioneers in the history of Icelandic art; he was the first Icelandic painter to make a career in art. The view from the window of Vinaminni, where he first lived on his return to Iceland, became a favourite motif for him, with its vista of Reykjavík Harbour and Mt. Esja across the bay. Watercolour was an appropriate medium for capturing the quality of the light over the waters of Skerjafjörður and the houses on Laufásvegur. Ásgrímur’s life and oeuvre span a long period of Iceland’s history – a time when the old rural society was starting to decline and Reykjavík was growing from a town into a city. Many of Ásgrímur’s paintings from Reykjavík, painted in the first half of the 20th century, depict a peaceful little town where houses cluster
Dieter Roth
Ásgrímur Jónsson along the ocean shore; yet they also show economic activity, such as workmen building roads as the new urban society evolves.
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND Jewellery by Dieter Roth
Dieter Roth (1930—1998) was a pioneer who respected no boundaries: a thinker, trailblazer, poet, musician, filmmaker and visual artist. A less well-known aspect of his career is that he also made an impression with his creation of innovative jewellery, starting in Iceland in the late 1950s. The first pieces of jewellery designed by Roth were made in collaboration with his wife, artist Sigríður Björnsdóttir, at the kitchen table in their home; but before long, they were offered better facilities in the atelier of goldsmith Halldór Sigurðsson at Skólavörðustígur 2 in central Reykjavik. Roth‘s jewellery, generally composed of screws, bolts and other mechanical parts, could be
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assembled in various different ways, and reconfigured. His jewellery-making was characterised by the same approach as his art: he made use of materials that were generally dismissed as waste or refuse, which he transformed. No two objects are alike; Dieter Roth was familiar with the qualities of the material and worked directly with it. In the 1960s, Roth embarked on a collaboration with Swiss goldsmith Hans Langenbacher; the two men had first met at the atelier of goldsmith Jón Sigmundsson in Reykjavík in 1958, and had been impressed by each other‘s methods, use of materials, and skill.
Margrét H. Blöndal: Ode to Join
Margrét H. Blöndal’s exhibition Ode to Join comprises drawings made with oil and powdered pigments, plus three-dimensional pieces created directly onto the exhibition venue as a response to the space. Movement arises from partitions to be installed in the space, the placement of the works and the relationship between them.
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EVENTS MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS
Ingunn Fjóla Ingþórsdóttir: The Only Constant is Change
Ingunn Fjóla Ingþórsdóttir’s installation The Only Constant is Change bears an element of familiarity as the artist revisits and combines components from former works in a new manner. The multifaceted piece conforms to its own inner operating system, on one hand, and the presence of guests, on the other, disguising the starting point of motion.
Some New Works
In keeping with the National Gallery’s remit as an archive, repository and collector of Icelandic Art, the Gallery’s latest show, Some New Works does exactly what it says on the tin, showcasing recent acquisitions alongside the museum’s extensive collection. The best place to get an overall snapshot of Iceland’s visual art history, the Gallery’s permanent collection contains works dating from the 16th century to the present day. It’s expanding collection, with newer works showcased here illustrate the Galleries commitment to it’s statutory role in collecting work reflecting movements in Icelandic and international art.
REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM KJARVALSSTAÐIR Faces from Clouds - Jóhannes S. Kjarval’s portraits Throughout his entire career, Kjarval created portraits, and this
Jóhannes S. Kjarval extensive exhibition features oil paintings of known people from all eras, watercolour portraits of Italian people from 1920, a selection of ink and india ink drawings from 1928-1930, sanguine portraits of friends and family, and lesser known portraits from the artist’s later years.
Stitches and threads
Stitches and Threads is an exhibition of works by contemporary Icelandic artists who embroider or make use of the needle and thread as a tool in their art. They either look to the past to work with the heritage of the craftsmanship and its tradition, or employ the needle as a tool in progressive experiments with other media. The exhibition includes new and recent works by a varied group of artists, both representatives of the younger generation and artists who have made their mark on the Icelandic art scene.
Kristinn G. Harðarson
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THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND The Making of a Nation Heritage and History in Iceland The National Museum of Iceland’s permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation – Heritage and History in Iceland, is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the settlement to the present day. The aim is to cast light on the Icelanders’ past by placing the cultural heritage preserved by the National Museum in a historical context, guided by the question: what makes a nation? The exhibition includes about 2,000 objects dating from the Settlement Age to the present, as well as about 1,000 photographs from the 20th century. The exhibition is conceived as a journey through time: it begins with the ship in which mediaeval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home, and it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world.
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MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS
EVENTS In the shadow
Women pioneers of photography take centre stage in an exhibition in the National Museum’s photography room. The exhibition highlights ten women photographers in Denmark, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands in the latter half of the 19th century. The exhibition title has a double meaning. The women stood behind the camera and out of the spotlight, but also in the shadow of their male contemporaries. Sometimes, their work was even attributed to their husbands.
Saga of Hofstaðir, Unearthing the Past in North Iceland
At Hofstaðir, in the district of Lake Mývatn, north Iceland, extensive archaeological excavations have been carried out over the past three decades. The site includes remains from the Viking Age to the 20th century. A huge Viking-Age structure was excavated: a hall or longhouse where people gathered on social occasions, with other smaller buildings around it. The hall is one of the largest structures ever excavated in Iceland. In addition, a churchyard was excavated at Hofstaðir, which is one of the oldest churchyards unearthed in Iceland. Whole families were laid to rest in the cemetery, and their bones yield evidence about their lives. The face of one of the women buried at Hofstaðir has been reconstructed using DNA technology, and a drawing of her is included in the exhibition.
From mire to metal
In the past, iron smelting from bog iron was performed in Iceland. The use of metallurgical furnaces called bloomeries were used to smelt iron throughout the Middle Ages. Thereafter the practice steadily declined until it was completely abandoned in the 17th or 18th century. The knowledge of this
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Making of a Nation ancient craftmanship has since been forgotten to time, leaving numerous questions about the bloomery process unanswered. For a long time, scientists have attempted to answer questions about bloomery in Iceland. How was bog iron processed? How were bloomery furnaces constructed, isolated, and ignited? What quality of iron could be produced from Icelandic bog iron? The exhibition From mire to metal explores bloomery research in Iceland. Bloomery experiments were carried out at Eiríksstaðir, successfully smelting iron for the first time from Icelandic bogs in centuries
ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM Árbær was an established farm well into the 20th century, and the museum opened there in 1957. Árbær is now an open-air museum with more than 20 buildings which form a town square, a village and a farm. Most of the buildings have been relocated from central Reykjavik.Árbær Open Air Museum tries to give a sense of the architecture and way of life and lifestyles of the past in Reykjavík and during summer visitors can see domestic animals. There are many exhibitions and events held at the Museum, which highlight specific periods in Reykjavik’s history. These include craft days, vintage car displays, Christmas exhibitions and much more. There is something for everyone at Árbær Open Air Museum.
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WELCOME TO THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND
The National Museum of Iceland Suðurgata 41, 102 Reykjavík Opening hours Daily 10-17 Closed on Mondays 16/9-30/4
nationalmuseum.is +354 530 2200 @thjodminjasafn
EVENTS
BEST STEAKS IN REYKJAVÍK... ...WE AGREE 78
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EVENTS MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS
Karólína the Weaver
Karólína Guðmundsdóttir (1897-1981) learned weaving in Copenhagen, and for several decades she ran a weaving atelier on Ásvallagata in Reykjavík. She wove upholstery and curtain fabrics for public bodies, businesses and homes, where the colours and textures harmonised with their surroundings. Her embroidery fabrics were used in school pupils‘ needlework projects for many years, and embroidered wall-hangings and cushions from Karólína‘s atelier adorned many Icelandic homes. She was thus an influence upon Icelanders‘ home furnishings and taste. In addition, her work led people to recognise the fine qualities of Icelandic wool and changed attitudes to crafts and needlework.
Árbær Open Air Museum
Consumption - Reykjavík in the 20th century The exhibition aims to show the huge and rapid changes that took place in consumption patterns in Reykjavík during the 20th century – to explore the factors that affected consumption, and how technical advances, government actions, wars, and events in Iceland and abroad influenced the daily life of the people of Reykjavík.
EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM This is a museum in the heart of Reykjavík that houses the work of Iceland’s first sculptor Einar Jónsson. The museum contains close to 300 artworks spanning a 60-year career: carvings from the artist’s youth, sculpture, paintings and drawings. A beautiful tree-clad garden adorned with 26 bronze casts of the artist’s works is located behind the museum. The task of the museum is to collect, preserve
Einar Jónsson Museum
and display the work of Einar as well as to conduct research on his life and art.
THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION The Settlement Exhibition
An open excavation where Viking ruins meet multimedia technology. Just below ground in downtown Reykjavík, this open excavation uncovers the city’s Viking Age history. Discovered during building work in 2001, these archaeological
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remains turned out to be the earliest evidence of human settlement in the city, with some dating to before AD 872. Careful excavation revealed a 10th-century hall or longhouse, which is now preserved in its original location as the focal point of the exhibition. Interactive technology immerses you in the world of the Reykjavík farm at the time of the first settlers, including information on how Viking Age buildings were constructed and what life was like in the hall. The Settlement Exhibition is part of Reykjavík City Museum
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MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS
EVENTS AÐALSTRÆTI 10 Aðalstræti ...and the story continues
Family-friendly and informative exhibition about the development of Reykjavík, from farm to city. This new display is a direct continuation of The Settlement Exhibition, representing Reykjavík’s history from settlement to the present day. Visitors get an insight into the complex history and culture of Reykjavík through the development of house construction and planning with a stop at the oldest house in the city centre, Aðalstræti 10. The admission is valid to both Aðalstræti 10 and The Settlement Exhibition in Aðalstræti 16.
REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY Ester Jóhannesdóttir Light Space– Shadow space
Photography becomes easier and more accessible, and opposites become clearer as the darkness retreats with increased natural light.
Jessica Auer – Landvörður
Since 2016 Jessica Auer has been documenting the impact of mass tourism on Icelandic landscape and society. Working between Canada and her studio in Iceland, Jessica‘s travels between these countries coincided with the tourism boom and as such, she navigated the gap between being a foreigner and a local. She saw both sides of the tourist gaze and sought to share this experience through photography and video. When travel came to a standstill during the pandemic, Jessica’s work took a significant turn, reflecting on the value systems of this boom and bust industry. Her most recent photographs turn their attention towards landscape conservation and the efforts to protect areas vulnerable to exploitation during the uncertainty of a global pandemic. Throughout these last years, Jessica has travelled around the country with a large format view camera, capturing portraits of park rangers, wardens and other people who occupy this environment.
The action of photographing or forming light has many manifestations. In the exhibition Light Space– Shadow Space, natural light is photographed inside building interiors as well as outside in the twilight. That way, abstract forms and shadows become clearer in the specific frame of the picture plane, still lyricism is never far away. Ester Jóhannesdóttir graduated with MFA from the University of Leeds in 2010 and has been creating art for more than thirty years. Jessica Auer
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Erró
REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS Erró: The Power of Images
Erró is one of the few Icelandic artists who has gained a foothold in the international art scene. The Power of Images is a comprehensive overview of the artist’s colourful career that has made use of various media in the visual arts. Within it you will find everything from performances, video works, graphics, multiples and collages, to larger works in public spaces and paintings of all scales. All have helped to earn his place in the art history of Europe. Here presented is the most extensive exhibition that has been realised of the artist’s works in Iceland. The exhibition The Power of Images reflects Erró’s remarkable career and is based upon the artist’s donation of his art to the City of Reykjavík. It is installed across Reykjavík Art Museum – Hafnarhús, with more than 300 artworks of various kinds, as well as, photographs and other information about the artist exhibited.
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Experience the amazing Langjökull glacier from the inside A rare, once in a lifetime opportunity
vík ja k y e R d n a r te n e c úsafell H m o fr s e r tu r a p e d Daily
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Fish • Lamb • Whale • Icelandic cuisine with a twist Icelandic music and nightlife Mix with the locals . .and all the Icelandic beers in one awsome place!
INGÓLFSSTRÆTI 1A
1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K
www.islenskibarinn.is postur@islenskibarinn.is sími: 517 6767
EVENTS
The Icelandic Punk Museum is located at Bankastræti 0, an underground location that served as public toilets from 1930 to 2006. The museum honours the music and the spirit that has shaped musicians and bands to this day; people who dared to be different. Objects, photographs, videos, posters, etc. from roughly 1978 to 1992 are on display with texts in Icelandic and English, and the main music from the period is available to guests.
Punk Museum
HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS National Treasures
The National Gallery of Iceland’s collection contains over eleven thousand works. In the exhibition Treasures of a Nation, a selection of works from the collection displays the evolution of art in Iceland from the early nineteenth century to our times.
House of Collections
Welcome to Jómfrúin, the home of Danish smørrebrød in Reykjavik. It all began in 1888 with Oscars Davidsen’s highly praised smørrebrød restaurant in Copenhagen. An unbroken tradition of quality and Danish culinary culture for the past 100 years. Enjoy! Open every day 11:00 - 22:00 | Lækjargata 4 | 101 Reykjavík | jomfruin.is 83
MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS
THE ICELANDIC PUNK MUSEUM
ART & CULTURE
ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM
THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION
AÐALSTRÆTI 10
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Reykjavík’s only open air museum, where you can stroll through the past and experience the way we lived. Fun, fascinating and full of surprises, this living museum takes you on a journey through time. Guided tours at 13:00 all year round.
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM An open excavation where Viking ruins meet digital technology. Just below ground in downtown Reykjavík, this open excavation uncovers the city’s Viking Age history. Discovered during building work, then carefully excavated, these remnants of the past are the earliest evidence of human settlement in the city.
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM The city’s oldest house, built in 1762 houses an exhibition detailing the history of Reykjavík, and the daily life of the people who inhabited it, continuing where the nearby Settlement Exhibition leaves off.
Kistuhylur, Reykjavík 411-6304 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 13-17
Aðalstræti 10, 101 Reykjavík 411 6300 | www.borgarsogusafn.is
Aðalstræti 10 & 16, Reykjavík | 411-6370 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17
REYKJAVIK CITY LIBRARY
REYKJAVIK MARITIME MUSEUM
EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM
FREE ENTRY Looking for a place to hang out, browse the internet, get access to Wi-Fi or meet the Reykjavik locals? Then Reykjavik City Library is the perfect place to visit. Have a seat and dip into the latest magazine or relax while checking out their great selection of books. Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavík 411-6100 | borgarbokasafn.is Hours: Mon-Thu: 10-16, Fri 11-16
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM A harbour museum exploring Iceland’s dramatic relationship with the sea. The survival of a nation depended on generations of brave fishermen heading into the unknown. Exhibitions and artefacts bring our ocean history to life. Guided tours of Óðinn Coast Guard Vessel: 10-17.
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.
Grandagarður 8, Reykjavík | 411-6340 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is
VIÐEY ISLAND
WHALES OF ICELAND
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM An island, where art, history and nature lie just beyond the city shore. The combination of stunning views, historical ruins and contemporary art pieces make Viðey island something special. Just a short boat ride takes you to another world. Ferry Schedule: Weekends only. Viðey Reykjavik 411-6356. www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is
An exhibition in Reykjavík consisting of 23 life-size whale models - fun to touch and explore. Learn more about whales with in-depth multimedia and interactive information displays, videos and audio guide in several languages mixed with soothing whale sounds and underwater ambient lighting.
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Fiskislóð 23-25 , Reykjavík 571-0077 | www.whalesoficeland.is Hours: Daily 10-17
Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavík 551-3797 | www.lej.is Hours: Tue-Sun 12-17
REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Reflecting the contemporary, while archiving the past – this is Reykjavík’s home of photography. Reykjavík’s main photography museum offers an ongoing programme of contemporary and historical exhibitions, and an onscreen archive of thousands of images from the past. Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavík | 411-6390 reykjavikcitymuseum.is | Hours: MonThu 10-18, Fri 11-18, Sat & Sun 13-17
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Airport Transfers
The Flybus operates in connection with all arriving & departing flights at Keflavík International Airport. All flights
45 min
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For our flexible schedule, please visit www.flybus.is Prices & availability are subject to change without notice.
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Over 100 tours & activities on re.is BSÍ Bus Terminal - City Centre •101 Reykjavík
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NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND
Iceland's leading art museum, established in 1884. Its collection consists mainly of 19th, 20th and 21st century art. The National Gallery possesses a coherent array of Icelandic works and a fine collection of international art. Together they constitute around 11,000 items.
Offers state-of-the-art exhibitions on the cultural history of Iceland. The permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History of Iceland, gives a comprehensive picture of Iceland’s cultural history through the ages to the present day.
A museum that Icelandic sculptor Sigurjón Ólafsson’s wife founded as a tribute to his life and work in 1984. She had his studio in Laugarnes converted to an exhibition space to house his collection of works, including sculptures, sketches, drawings and biographical material.
Suðurgata 41, Reykjavík 530-2200 | www.nationalmuseum.is Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17
Laugarnestangi 70 553-2906 | www.lso.is Hours: Tue-Sun 13-17
Fríkirkjuvegur 7, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17
HOME OF AN ARTIST 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.
THE ICELANDIC PHALLOLOGICAL MUSEUM
AURORA REYKJAVIK
Probably the most unique museum you’ll visit on your trip, the Icelandic Phallological Museum is one of a kind. Here you’ll find a collection of more than two hundred penises and penile parts belonging to almost all land and sea mammals that can be found in Iceland.
The Northern Lights Center, Aurora Reykjavik, allows you to experience the northern lights in a completely different way, both if you saw them, but as well if they escaped you while in Iceland. The centre features information, education and of course stunning visuals of the elusive lights that’ll get your heart racing.
Hafnartorg, Reykjavík 561-6663 | www.phallus.is Hours: Daily 10-19
Grandagarður 2, Reykjavík 780-4500 | www.aurorareykjavik.is Hours: Daily 9-21
PERLAN
FLYOVER ICELAND
This peculiar building, built on top of six water tanks on a hill overlooking the city, houses two exhibitions, The Wonders of Iceland and Water in Icelandic Nature. In addition, Perlan has a recently-opened planetarium, a café and gelateria, and an observation deck with a 360° view of the city and its surrounding nature.
FlyOver Iceland utilises state-of-the-art technology to give you the feeling of flight. You will hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while the film whisks you away on an exhilarating journey across Iceland. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unforgettable experience.
MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART
Bergstaðastræti 74, Reykjavík 515-9625 www.listasafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17
Varmahlíð 1, Reykjavík 566-9000 | www.perlan.is Hours: 9-22
Fiskislóð 43, 101 Reykjavík. 527-6700. www.flyovericeland.is Hours: Mon-Fri, 11:00-19:00 & Sat-Sun, 11:00-19:00.
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Its objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts from 1900 to the present day. This young museum, the only one of its kind in Iceland, holds regular exhibitions of Icelandic and international design during the year. Exhibitions from the museum‘s own collection are regularly held. Garðatorg 1, Garðabær 512-1525 | www.honnunarsafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 12-17 87
ART & CULTURE
SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND
ART & CULTURE
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 1942-1950. The original building served Sveinsson as studio and home; behind it he built a crescent-shaped structure as a work and exhibition space.
The old harbour warehouse, Hafnarhús, offers a progressive exhibition program with local and international contemporary artists. The work of current notables, art canons and newcomers is presented in six galleries. Hafnarhús is also home to the works of Erró (b. 1932), a significant player in the international pop art scene.
Flókagata 24, Reykjavík 411-6420 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17
GLJÚFRASTEINN LAXNESS MUSEUM Halldór Laxness is arguably the most famous Icelandic writer of all time, and the only Icelander to have won a Nobel Prize, which he received for literature in 1955. Gljúfrasteinn was his home until his death, and today it is a museum dedicated to his life and work. Gljúfrasteinn, Mosfellsbær 586-8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is Hours: Tue-Fri 10-17
Sigtún, Reykjavík 411-6430 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17
HAFNARBORG FREE ENTRY Hafnarborg has a collection of Icelandic art and regular exhibitions presenting leading Icelandic and international artists. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Around exhibitions are workshops and guided tours. Strandgata 34, Hafnarfjörður 585-5790 | www.hafnarborg.is Hours: 12-17, closed on Tuesdays
Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavík 411-6400 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Thu 10-22
THE LIVING ART MUSEUM An active exhibition space that has organized many exciting exhibitions throughout the years. They put an emphasis on introducing young Icelandic artists, as well as showcasing work by better-known Icelandic and foreign modern and contemporary artists. The Marshall House Grandagarður 20, Reykjavík 551-4350 | www.nylo.is Hours: Wed-Sun: 12-18
GERÐARSAFN
HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS
THE NORDIC HOUSE
A progressive modern art museum in Kópavogur, dedicated to sculptor Gerður Helgadóttir; the only museum in Iceland dedicated to a woman. Its collection consists of more than 1,400 works by Gerður, as well as the works of the most celebrated Icelandic artists of the 20th and 21st century.
House of collections was built in 1906 and for most of the 20th century served as the country’s National Library. The stately building currently houses the National Gallery’s exhibition Treasures of a Nation, displaying works from the Gallery’s extensive collection depicting Iceland’s art history from the early 19th century to our times.
Iceland maintains strong ties to other Nordic countries, and the center of this cooperation is the Nordic House, designed by acclaimed Finnish architect Alvar Aalto in 1968. The Nordic House is the venue if you want to enjoy the best of Icelandic culture as well as experiencing rich culture of the Nordic countries.
Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Daily 10-17
Sturlugata 5, Reykjavík 551-7030 | www.nordice.is Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17
Hamraborg 4, Kópavogur 441-7600 | www.gerdarsafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17
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BOOK YOUR
TOUR HERE
Laxnes Horse Farm is a family run business and the oldest tour operator in Iceland. Founded in 1968, the farm offers horseback riding tours all year round for travelers interested in the gentle Icelandic horse.
+354 566 6179
info@laxnes.is
www.laxnes.is
PUBS & NIGHTLIFE
VÍNSTÚKAN 10 SOPAR
LEBOWSKI BAR
MICROBAR
10 Sopar is the city centre’s cosiest wine bar focusing mostly on serving natural wines. If you start to get peckish after a few glasses of their delicious wines, they also serve snacks and small plates. The cosy bar is perfect for having a few glasses of wines with friends or a date.
If you are visiting Iceland for the first time then you must stop by the Lebowski Bar. Open every day from 11AM, happy hour from 4-7PM, food served until 10PM, Quiz every Thursday (free entry), live sport events on 5 HD screens and Reykjavik nightlife every Friday & Saturday.
Laugavegur 27, Reykjavík 888 2380
Laugavegur 20a, Reykjavík 552-2300 www.lebowski.is
Beer enthusiasts look no further! In a cellar underneath Restaurant Reykjavík, just off Ingólfstorg square, you will find Micro Bar. This ambitious bar serves only beer from microbreweries! Carrying an impressive 140 different kinds of beers from all over the world, this is definitely the go-to place for beer fans. Laugavegur 86, Reykjavík
EINSTÖK
PORT 9
VEÐUR
There’s nothing like an Einstök beer after a long day of exploring Reykjavík and now there’s a whole bar dedicated to this popular brew! Einstök literally means unique and after a few sips of their refreshing craft ale, brewed with fresh water from Northern Iceland, we’re sure you’ll agree. The recently opened Laugavegur bar makes it even easier to enjoy their variety of ales, ranging from citrusy fresh white to the darkest of porters.
Port 9 wine bar is a hidden gem just off the main shopping street. Serving selected wines and a unique blend of appetizers made with the freshest seasonal ingredients, Port 9 is one of the best spots in the city to stop by for a glass of quality wine in a relaxed atmosphere.
This cozy little bar is named after the Icelandic word for weather, Icelanders’ conversation topic of choice in most situations. Offering a selection of wine, beer, and cocktails, Veður is a great spot for hanging out with friends, and the large windows make it ideal for people-watching over a drink.
Veghúsastígur 9, Reykjavík 897-8212 www.port9.is
Klapparstígur 33, Reykjavík www.vedurbarinn.is
Laugavegur 10, Reykjavík
LOFT HOSTEL
KIKI - QUEER BAR
RÖNTGEN
This hostel café/bar is bright and spacious; the perfect place to start the night. The hall hosts events most nights and on summer afternoons, the balcony is the best place in town for a beer in the sun. Last but not least, Loft has the best foosball table of all the bars in the city centre.
Kiki is the only queer bar in town these days but it is also the best one! If you’re worried you won’t find the place, don’t be. The rainbow coloured street entrance, stream of people in a dancing mood, and the far-off sound of dance-heavy beats should lead you where you want to go!
In the early 20th century, Hverfisgata 12 was home to the country’s first X-ray clinic. Today, the building houses one of the city’s newest bars but the name pays homage to the building’s long history. Expect cocktails, natural wines, and the city’s artsiest crowd having a night out.
Bankastræti 7, Reykjavík 553-8140
Laugavegur 22 www.kiki.is
Hverfisgata 12, Reykjavík www. www.rontgenbar.is
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KALDI BAR
AMERICAN BAR
One of the coolest bars in Reykjavik these days is Kaldi Bar. In close cooperation with north Icelandic micro brewery of the same name, Kaldi offers you a selection of craft brewed beers on tap. Great happy hour and great fun, Kaldi is a place not to be missed!
American Bar is named appropriately since it’s an American Bar in Reykjavík, of the kind you’re probably familiar with from other countries: there are dudes, chicks and random university students partying to the latest MTV tunes. They specialize in American culture and entertainment.
Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavík 581-2200
Austurstræti 8, Reykjavík 571-9999
Klapparstígur 27, Reykjavík 581-2020 www.irishman.is
PETERSEN SVÍTAN
MIAMI
DEN DANSKE KRO
Built in 1926 as an apartment, the Petersen Suite is one of Reykjavík’s hidden gems. Take the elevator up to the third floor above the historic Gamla Bíó concert hall to reveal an elegant bar with one of Reykjavík’s best views. On sunny days, you need to get there early, the sunny patio fills up quickly!
The 80s style cocktail bar Miami is colourfully decorated on Hverfisgata. Downstairs, you’ll find a ping pong stadium where punters can take on challengers. Miami comes alive at night when the colours pop out, such as the neon-lit bar. There are G&T and Cuba Libre on tap and try to find the Möet switch for all your champagne needs.
This homey pub with a Danish theme is popular among locals. Happy hour every day from 4-7pm and live music with talented Icelandic musicians every night. Beer bingo every month and other fun events! Located in the heart of the city centre.
Ingólfsstræti 2a 3rd floor, Reykjavík 563-4000 | www.ktf.is
Hverfisgata 33, Reykjavík 699-1250
Ingólfsstræti 3, Reykjavík 552-0070 www.danski.is
KAFFIBARINN
CLUB SÓLON
THE ENGLISH PUB
Best known as Damon Albarn’s hangout place back in the day, this most famous bar in Iceland is a popular destination for the artsy crowd. During the week it‘s more of a café, but on the weekend the volume rises and KB becomes one of the hottest bars in Reykjavik.
Every Friday and Saturday night the newly established Club Sólon is booming with music, dancing, cocktails and drinks on two floors until 4AM in the morning. Start your evening on the cozy 1st floor lounge area with 2-for-1 cocktails and then dance the night away with the local crowd.
A popular pub in city centre. The English Pub offers happy hour every day from 4-7pm, live music every night, wheel of fortune and all major sport events are shown on 6 HD screens. Special events: Open Mic Tuesday, Guinness Thursday and Whisky Sunday.
Bergstaðastræti 1, Reykjavík 551-1588 www.kaffibarinn.is
Bankastræti 7a, Reykjavík 562-3232
Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is
Austurstræti 12, Reykjavík 578-0400 facebook.com/enskibarinn 91
PUBS & NIGHTLIFE
THE IRISHMAN PUB An Irish-style pub in downtown Reykjavík. Happy hour every day from 12PM to 7PM! Guests can enjoy a game of darts, listen to live music Thursday to Sunday evenings, spin the wheel of fortune and you can even book a private karaoke room! Sláinte.
ICELANDIC GASTROPUB
HAPPIEST HAPPY HOUR IN REYKJAVÍK
990
1.690 SÆTA SVÍNIÐ / Hafnarstræti 1-3 / Tel. 555 2900 / saetasvinid.is
NAUTHÓLL
GRANDI MATHÖLL
Looking out over the Nauthólsvík beach, this charming Scandinavianinspired bistro is the perfect oasis from the stress of the everyday. Whether you’re there for a light lunch, a glass of wine on a sunny afternoon, a cup of hot coffee on a cold one, or a lovely dinner with a loved one, Nauthóll is the place to go.
Grandi Mathöll is a must visit for foodies. Situated in the hip Grandi area, the European style food hall has everything from fresh salmon ceviche to Vietnamese spring rolls and Korean tacos. Right next door is one of Iceland’s busiest harbours, and visitors can see a feed of live ship arrivals.
Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavík 561-1111 | www.steik.is
Nauthólsvegi 106, 101 Reykjavík 599-6660 | www.nautholl.is
Grandagarður 16, Reykjavík 577-6200 | www.grandimatholl.is
DUCK & ROSE
THE ICELANDIC BAR
THE LAUNDROMAT CAFE
This trendy restaurant overlooking Austurvöllur square serves light and delicious food, inspired by French and Italian cuisine. The duck dishes are highly recommended but whatever you do, don’t forget to order one of their expertly mixed cocktails!
The Icelandic Bar is very aptly named: it is an Icelandic bar. But more than that, it is a bar that aims to preserve the essence of being Icelandic by combining the historical and cultural heritage of this ancient land with the very hip and cutting edge culture of modern times.
Situated right downtown in Austurstræti, Laundromat houses laundry facilities and a family-friendly environment. A spacious recreational room downstairs will keep your children busy while you’re chomping on the bistro menu. Whether it’s brunch, board games or beer you’re looking for, Laundromat should have you covered.
Austurstræti 14 101 Reykjavík 551 1020 | www.duckandrose.is Mar
ina
Hot
el
Gei
Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík 517-6767 www.islenskibarinn.is
Austurstræti 9, Reykjavík
rsga
ta
HORNIÐ
FISH AND CHIPS VAGNINN
SPÁNSKI BARINN
Italian restaurant Hornið is a Reykjavík restaurant institution at this point, having opened in 1979. Situated in downtown Reykjavík, it was the first Italian restaurant in town and is as strong as ever. Expect fresh pizza, made right in front of the guests in the open kitchen. The cozy place is also a decent spot for people watching, with its large windows.
The fish and chips stand down by the old harbour combines the best of British and Icelandic culture, with fresh, quality Icelandic fish served in the traditional British way. You can even get mushy peas and malt vinegar with it! Festing on hot fish and chips while looking over the old harbour is an unbeatable Reykjavík experience.
Situated just off Laugavegur, the Spanish style bodega Spánski barinn offers fresh tapas and a quality wine selection. In a dim and cosy basement, guests can enjoy a quality happy hour chock full of wines from Tempranillo to Rioja, as well as a house red on tap.
Hafnarstræti 15, Reykjavík 551-3340 I www.hornid.is
Between the Reykjavík Maritime Museum and Reykjavík Marina Hotel 840-4100 | fishandchipsvagninn.is
Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is
Ingólfsstræti 8, Reykjavík 832-8881
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WINING & DINING
THE STEAK HOUSE A restaurant opposite the old harbour that offers traditional steak dishes along with some exciting and fairly unorthodox choices. The pride and joy of The Steakhouse is the Mibrasa charcoal oven, a rare oven that is designed to cook the perfect steak by mixing modern technology with ancient tradition.
WINING & DINING
FORRÉTTABARINN
FORSETINN
JÓMFRÚIN
Tasty tapas with an Icelandic twist. With a new spin on traditional Icelandic cuisine and an extensive selection of local beer, Forréttabarinn – “The Starters Bar” – is worth seeking out when you need a bite to eat or a place to start your night out in Reykjavík. Whatever you choose from the refreshingly creative menu, you’re in for a treat!
Feeling presidential? Why not sit down for a powerful beverage (hot or cold) or even a light meal fit for a president in the cosy retro atmosphere on the city’s main street. Forsetinn (Icelandic for President) is a versatile spot - café, bistro, and bar - perfect for people watching at any time of the day.
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.
Laugavegur 51, Reykjavík 860 9640 www.forsetinncafe.is
Lækjargata 4, Reykjavík 551-0100 www.jomfruin.is
Nýlendugata 14, Reykjavík 517-1800 | www.forrettabarinn.is
KRYDD RESTAURANT
SÓLON BISTRO & BAR
YUZU
KRYDD is an à la carte restaurant that offers a dinner and lunch menu, along with appetizers and a state of the art cocktailbar. On Sundays, it offers a brunch buffet between 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Sólon offers seafood, lamb, salmon, salads, hamburgers and juicy steaks, as well as a delicious fish of the day. Sólon resides in a beautiful old building on the main shopping street with high & wide windows, perfect for people watching! Local beer, wine, coffee, cocktails, and Black Death are served at Sólon Bistro & Bar.
The east-Asian citrus fruit was a stranger to Icelandic palates until a few years ago and now there’s a whole burger place dedicated to its aromatic sourness. This upscale burger joint will keep your belly full and your taste buds delighted with an array of burgers, cocktails and even a signature brew. Vegan options available!
Bankastræti 7a, Reykjavík 562-3232 | www.solon.is
Hverfisgata 44, Reykjavík
Hafnarborg, Strandgötu 34, Hafnarfjörður www.kryddveitingahus.is Open: M-T 11-23, F-S, 11-01, S 11-23
HLEMMUR MATHÖLL Hlemmur Mathöll is a European style food hall featuring global delicacies alongside tasty Icelandic dishes. A former bus station, Hlemmur is now the new home for gourmands and fast food lovers alike in Reykjavík. Hlemmur brims with life on both weekends and weekdays alike, so head on down to see what the fuss is about. Laugavegur, Reykjavík 787-6200 | www.hlemmurmatholl.is
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REYKJAVÍK MEAT STEAKHOUSE As the name suggests, Reykjavík Meat is the city’s newest new steakhouse. The food is cooked over coals giving it a delicious flavour, and crowning their menu is the award-winning sashi marbled beef. They also offer seafood, lamb and vegetarian and vegan dishes, as well as delicious cocktails! Frakkastígur 8, Reykjavík 557-7665 | www.rvkmeat.is
BÆJARINS BEZTU Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur literally means The Town’s Best Hot Dogs. A must try while visiting, it is the perfect on-the-go food. We dare you to time the hot dog artists at Bæjarins Beztu after you order ‘ein með öllu’ (one with everything). They are incredibly quick to make a concoction of raw onions, fried onions, ketchup, remoulade, Icelandic mustard and the dog itself. Tryggvagata 1, 101 Reykjavík 511-1566 | www.bbp.is
Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is
BASTARD
PUBLIC HOUSE
This Irish-bar looking restaurant is one of the city’s best places to sit down for a quick lunch and end up whiling away a whole afternoon in the cosy booth while the game is on or on the sunny patio. The weekend-bottomless brunch is particularly popular. so make sure to get a reservation!
Grandagarður 20 & Harpa Concert hall, Reykjavík 519-7766 www.laprimavera.is
Vegamótastígur 4, Reykjavík 558-0800 www.bastardbrewandfood.is
This Laugavegur gastropub is a great place to treat yourself to a a dinner and some drinks with friends, old and new. With a delicious menu of Asian-fusion inspired small plates to share and an even more delicious menu of cocktails, Public House is a recipe for a fun evening. If you want a fun morning or a fun afternoon instead, check out their bottomless brunch! Laugavegur 24, 101 Reykjavík www.publichouse.is
KOPAR
GRILLHÚSIÐ
BREWDOG
Kopar is a restaurant by the old harbour in Reykjavik which has an emphasis on adventure and experience in a brasserie setting. Their menu is composed of various locally sourced ingredients from sea and land, and aims to give you a taste of Iceland in a single evening.
A fun restaurant, with the look and feel of an American Diner. Reasonably priced, offering 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.
Hop lovers, rejoice! UK’s Craft Beer Phenomenon just opened a bar and restaurant in downtown Reykjavik, located at the corner of Hverfisgata and Frakkastigur. Featuring 20 taps including BrewDog’s headliners, seasonals and one off brews as well as great local Icelandic craft beers. Highly impressive food menu and a very cosy atmosphere.
Geirsgata 3, Reykjavík 567-2700 www.koparrestaurant.is
Laugavegur 96, Reykjavík 527-5000 www.grillhusid.is
Frakkastígur 8, Reykjavík www.brewdog.com
MONKEYS
FISH COMPANY
BRAUÐ & CO
Monkeys is an exciting restaurant offering Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Japanese recipes and traditions with Peruvian ingredients. Exciting flavours of miso, ginger, soy, wasabi, and rice vinegar are mixed with quinoa, bell peppers, Andean potatoes, and corn, in a beautiful setting that creates just the right atmosphere. A great addition to the Reykjavík culinary scene!
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.
Head out to Brauð & Co. to get your hands on the scrumptious sourdough bread and tasty cinnamon buns. The early bird gets the worm, so don't be late! Keep in mind that the queue can get quite long, but it's well worth it.
Klapparstígur 30, 101 Reykjavík 519-5350 | www.monkeys.is
Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavík 552-5300 | www.fiskfelagid.is
Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is
Opens early, closes at 18:00. Frakkastígur 16, Reykjavík Fákafen 11, Reykjavík www.braudogco.is
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WINING & DINING
LA PRIMAVERA One of Iceland’s most treasured restaurants has made a comeback. The Italian delicacies of La Primavera are here to stay. Situated in the Marshall building, a former fishing warehouse, the building is also home to an art gallery, an art studio and the Living Art Museum.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
WHAT’S ON IF YOU NEED MORE INFO, CONTACT INFO@WHATSON.IS
HOW TO ... TAKE THE BUS
Strætó is the Icelandic bus company, and their yellow buses are easy to spot around the city. In November 2021, Strætó introduced the KLAPP payment system in their buses. You have three ways to pay. With a top up KLAPP card, with the KLAPP app, and with KLAPP ten, a bus pass with ten tickets. You can buy KLAPP cards and KLAPP ten at selected gas stations, convenience stores, museums, and swimming pools. For more information, go to https://www.klappid.is/en/sales
GET TO THE AIRPORT
Iceland’s international airport is located in Keflavík, about 50km from Reykjavík. If you rent a car or take a cab, it will take about 45 minutes to get to Reykjavík. A cheaper but just as reliable option is taking a bus to and from the airport. They connect to flights and will drop you off or pick you up at bus stops close to your accommodation in Reykjavík.
GET MONEY
Iceland has its own currency, the Icelandic króna (ISK). It’s best to get króna at any bank (open Monday to Friday, 9-4), including the one at the Keflavík International Airport (open 24/7). You can either exchange money or go to an ATM to get cash. Credit card and debit card payments are widely accepted in Iceland.
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PARK IN THE CITY CENTRE
There are different parking zones which charge different rates. Look for a parking sign (the familiar big P) indicating zones 1-4 and parking garages. Look for the nearest black terminal to pay, with cash or card, and type in your car’s number plate, no ticket necessary!
MAKE CALLS
Getting an Icelandic SIM card is easy, you can get them at the airport, phone companies, and, of course, the What’s On tourist information centre at Laugavegur 5.
GO SWIMMING
There are 18 swimming pools in the capital area and if you have the time, you should try them all. Swimming is great, but don’t miss relaxing in the hot tubs – this is where the community gathers and socialises. If you haven’t packed a bathing suit, you can rent one at the pool.
Visit What’s On at Laugavegur 5 or contact us at info@whatson.is.
Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is
WHAT’S ON
Trip - Booking Agency & Tourist Info | Laugavegur 54, Reykjavík | trip@whatson.is | +354 537 8100 Open Mon-Sat 9:00-21:00, Sun 9:00-18:00 | Located directly opposite Bónus Supermarket, on the main street
TEL: +354 571 1100 - Skólavörðustígur 14, 101 Reykjavík - www.sjavargrillid.is
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Meet some of Iceland’s finest designers Epal Skeifan 6 / Epal Design Kringlan / Epal Icelandic Design Laugavegi 70
www.epal.is
WHALE WATCHING AND OTHER WILDLIFE ADVENTURES FROM REYKJAVIK
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