CONTENT LIST FROM THE EDITOR
November was unusually eventful in Iceland with premature parliamentary elections on the 30th after the coalition government “exploded” in October. The US also voted a new yet old president at the beginning of the month. Now these events are behind us, finally, some would say, and we can officially start looking forward to Christmas, hopefully surrounded by loved ones, good food and atmosphere and able to take a precious pause for a moment from the turbulent times out there.
Travelers to Iceland in December are in for a treat. December, after all, is the fun part of winter! As the Christmas lights start going up already at the beginning of November, the whole town starts getting ready for the holiday season, and the twinkling lights have a way of brightening up the ever-darkening days. Spending time with family, eating good food, and curling up with a good book are activities to enjoy this time of year.
WHAT’S ON — VOLUME 42 — ISSUE 12
Published by: MD Reykjavík ehf. Laugavegur 5, 101 Reykjavik. Tel.: 551-3600
Contact us: info@whatson.is
Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Kjartansson
Distribution: nora@whatson.is
Tel.: 830-3629
And even after Christmas is over, there’s still plenty to look forward to. New Year’s Eve in Reykjavík is a special experience, with the entire night sky lighting up in a spectacle to the strike of the clock as Icelanders and visitors crowd around the city’s many bonfires. If the winter can be a little dark and cold at times, Icelanders have a way of perfecting their way of celebrating that brings light and cheer even into the dark and cold.
So while there’s reason to be informed and safe this travel season, there’s also plenty of reason to celebrate and be grateful.
Welcome to Reykjavík!
Map of Reykjavík: Friðrik Bjarnason
Editor: Guðmundur F. Magnússon
Content writers: The What’s On Team
Ad sales: Reynir Elís Þorvaldsson, reynir@whatson.is
Printing: Printall AS
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.
An experience beyond compare
Visit Iceland's wonder of the world
Scan code and book now
December might seem like a dark month to visit Iceland but it’s actually one of the brightest times of the year – at least in terms of events! String lights and candles light up the lingering darkness and the Icelandic Christmas traditions thaw the cold weather. Do it like the Icelanders and kick off the festivities with a delicious local Christmas beer. Merry Christmas or “Gleðileg jól” in Icelandic!
Here are What’s On’s tips for this month:
Visit the Christmas village in Hafnarfjörður for some delicious glögg!
Have a date night on Ingólfstorg Square and go ice skating beneath the sparkling lights.
Zipline on a glacier for the ultimate winter thrill!
Go to a local brewery and try all of the different Christmas beers (at your own risk!)
Check out the New Year’s Eve bonfires and properly say goodbye to 2024!
Visit one of many Christmas concerts and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Participate in the “Christmas Book Flood” and cozy up with a best-seller!
While you’re checking things off the list, snap some photos and tag #whatsonrvk on Instagram.
Award-winning bioactive skincare
Visit our stores and experience Icelandic skincare powered by unique bioactive ingredients from the Blue Lagoon.
Find the store nearest you.
@explographe
#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.
& Treat your taste buds at two historical food halls: Hlemmur 101 and Grandi at the old harbour.
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 visit the newest lava field
The recent eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula have been a powerful reminder to respect nature. At the time of writing, the last eruption ended June 23, 2024. The latest eruptions have not been “tourist friendly” and it is not currently possible to visit the newest lava fields on foot. However, chartered helicopter tours are available from several operators for those wanting to get a bird’s eye view of the
latest lava fields in Iceland. Check out whatson.is for more information and to book your flight!
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 accessible for most, especially because professional gear is provided. 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. 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.
Taste the best of iceland
ICELANDIC GOURMET FEAST
Starts with a shot of the infarmous Icelandic spirit Brennivín
late night dining
Our kitchen is open until 23:00 on weekdays and 24:00 on weekends
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
12.900 kr.
How to Travel Safely in Iceland
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
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.
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.
ONE OF THE FOOD WONDERS OF THE WORLD
ICELANDIC LAMB IS THE FIRST ICELANDIC FOOD PRODUCT TO BE PDO-MARKED
Icelandic lamb has acquired the PDO label, the highest level of geographical indication in Europe, placing it in the company of the world's best-known and most sought-after quality products.
7 FACTS YOU (PROBABLY)
DON’T KNOW
ABOUT VOLCANOES
1. Liberty, Equality, Fraternity... Volcanicity?
The 1783-4 eruption of Laki was the biggest eruption in recorded history. An estimated 42 billion tonnes of poisonous gases and dust darkened the skies. Haze from the eruption floated east as far away as India, disrupting the monsoon season and leading to drought and crop failures. The famine that hit Egypt in 1784, was a result of the eruption, and killed roughly one-sixth of its population. Back in Iceland, an estimated 20–25% of the population died from famine, and over half the livestock was poisoned or killed by giant hailstones. Food shortages contributed to social unrest across Europe and contributed to the French Revolution of 1789 that gave birth to western democracy.
2. And in second Place…
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
3. Enter the Volcano
In Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth, the heroes climb down a crater on the Snæfellsnes peninsula to find vast oceans filled with extinct prehistoric creatures. While an encounter with a herd of mastodons is unlikely, a trip to Þríhnúkagígur (Thrihnukagigur) still feels pretty Jules Verne. Þríhnúkagígur is the only volcano in the world
where you can descend into the magma chamber. Discovered in 1974 and opened to the public in 2012.
4. New Earth
Surtsey, Iceland’s most southern point was formed by a volcanic eruption at the bottom of the ocean and emerged from the water on November 14, 1963. It was immediately granted protection by law, and 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, which has, of course, been invaluable to scientists.
5. SuperFresh Lava
Iceland has a third of the world’s fresh lava. ‘Fresh’ is a relative term that may need defining. When discussing Arctic Char, it’s best measured in hours. In geological time fresh lava means lava that’s less than five hundred years old. Iceland is full of these ‘Here’s one I prepared earlier’ landscapes offering snapshots of geological time and processes.
6. Icelandic volcanoes are on the move! Due to changes in on the tectonic level of the earth, Iceland’s volcanoes are actually moving east. Veeeeeeeery slowly. If you visited Iceland 20 million years ago, the volcanoes would all have been situated in the West Fjords. Fifty million years ago, during the Eocene epoch, you would find our volcanoes living happily in Greenland, and 70
million years ago, our volcanoes would have been terrorising dinosaurs somewhere in Canada.
7. Iceland has a volcanic eruption every 4-5 years
The island has somewhere between 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 most recent eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula began at Fagradalsfjall in 2021. Geologists believe this current phase could last decades, if not centuries - a powerful reminder of nature’s might!
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. 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
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.
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:
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.
Going by boat:
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.
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.
Book your northern lights tour now online or at the What’s On tourist information centre, at Laugavegur 5.
NORTHERN LIGHTS PHOTOGRAPHY DO s AND DON'Ts
DO have a relatively good camera with you that allows for easy and quick change of settings.
DON’T rule out taking a photo on your phone’s camera.
DO have your ISO set to at least 800 and your aperture as low as it goes.
DON’T forget your tripod. However little you think you move while waiting for your camera to take your picture, believe me, you always move and it’s enough to make your photos blurry.
DO keep your shutter speed anywhere between 5 to 30 seconds, although the optimal would be between 5 and 20 seconds (30 seconds is only for very faint lights, basically).
DON’T forget to plan ahead when booking your northern lights tour- finding a stable surface on a boat is difficult, and large group tours might make your photography session more difficult.
DO consider using continuous shooting, so that while shooting the lights, you don’t have to keep staring at them through your camera.
DON’T focus solely on your photographs and forget to be in the moment. You don’t see the northern lights every day!
If you need any more information, check out www.whatson.is or stop by the What’s On information office at Laugavegur 5.
HOW TO READ THE NORTHERN LIGHTS FORECAST
The northern lights forecast can be found on en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/aurora/, but it is a little hard to decipher if you’ve never seen it before. Our handy-dandy guide should make things a little bit easier.
Going on a tour?
There are many tours taking you far from the bright city lights for a better chance of seeing the aurora. These tours will be cancelled if there is no chance of seeing the lights. All major operators can be trusted to do this, first of all, because there is a high standard of professionalism in Iceland, but more importantly, because they lose money if they take you out needlessly – most of them promise to take you out again for free if you don’t see anything.
The Colours
White means no clouds while dark green means very cloudy. The different shades of green then mean more, or less, cloudy.
The numbers
The numbers are a combination of how likely it is for the lights to be active and how active they will be. Don’t be discouraged if the number is low, it’s actually very rare for the number to be higher than five. Also, take the scale with a grain of salt; a low number doesn’t mean that they won’t come out or won’t be impressive, and a high number isn’t a guarantee that they will be glorious all through the night.
WELCOME TO PARADISE
Bíó Paradís is Iceland’s first and only art-house cinema, located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík. We screen the latest independent
We provide a warm, cozy environment for film lovers of all kinds, both in our three-screen cinema and in our well-stocked bar & café. Join our legendary weekly
CHRISTMAS PARTY SCREENINGS IN DECEMBER
THE HOLIDAY
Dec.6 @9pm
HOME ALONE 1
Dec.7 @2:30pm
NL’S CHRISTMAS VACATION
Dec.7 @9pm
DIE HARD
Dec.13 @9pm
HOME ALONE 2
Dec.14 @2:30pm
LOVE ACTUALLY
Dec.14 @9pm
LETHAL WEAPON
Dec.20 @9pm
ELF
Dec.23 @7pm
EDWARD SCISSORHANDS
Dec.27 @9pm
CHRISTMAS IN ICELAND a Feast of Light and Peace
Christmas in Iceland is the biggest celebration of the year. Perhaps this has something to do with the dark days of winter and the fact that Christmas coincides with the winter solstice. Whatever the reason, Christmas in Iceland is much more than just one day of celebration, there are 13 of them, and that’s not even counting Christmas Eve!
Over the top celebrations
Iceland is a very Christmas-oriented nation. It’s no wonder really, the winter months are dark, cold and damp, so celebrating with pretty lights and lots of staying inside and eating is a no-brainer. In the good old days, when people lived in dark and cramped turf houses half-buried in the ground, lived off the land and just tried their best not to freeze to death or get lost in a blizzard during the winter months, the winter solstice was a cause for celebration. It made
perfect sense to turn on the best candles they had, have the best meal possible, and put on their best clothes during the darkest days of winter, because it meant that there were brighter days ahead. The same mentality still applies, we celebrate with all our hearts the fact that we’ve reached the darkest point of winter and that from now on, each day will be just a little bit longer than the last, until, finally, summer comes again.
Preparations
For most Icelanders, the time spent preparing for Christmas is no less important or magical than the actual event. During the last four weeks before Christmas, Advent, people spend their time attending Christmas concerts, going Christmas shopping (a lengthy process that involves a lot of meeting relatives and acquaintances on the street), baking cookies and laufabrauð, and making sure their homes are decorated with brighter lights than their neighbours’.
One tradition can certainly be said to be allIcelandic: eating fermented skate on December 23. Visitors to Iceland are often bewildered on this day by the foul odour surrounding the beautiful Christmas decorations in Reykjavík. This day is very important to many Icelanders and must not be underestimated as it is a vital part of the holidays.
Family parties
Getting together with family is what this is all about. Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the Second Day of Christmas are usually packed with family events - think playing cards with your grandma in her best dress while sipping hot chocolate after stuffing yourself with smoked lamb, white sauce, and green peas. That doesn’t mean Icelanders don’t use the holidays to go out as well. The bars are open longer than usual on the Second Day of Christmas, and the weekend between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is usually packed with concerts and parties. Last but not least is of course New Year’s Eve itself when Icelanders go all out. Expect fireworks, glitter, parties, and even more fireworks.
Celebrated on December 24…
Christmas Day in Iceland is a cosy affair, mostly spent wearing pyjamas all day and reading. Books are very important during Christmas in Iceland, and probably the most common Christmas gift in the country. Most people read until the family party (mentioned above) starts. That’s because,
in Iceland, Christmas starts on Christmas Eve. At precisely 18:00, families all around the country either sit down to a Christmas feast, followed by opening presents and vowing never to eat again or sit down in church followed by the aforementioned activities.
… at precisely 18:00
Why 18:00 you might ask? The answer most Icelandic people will give is that it’s when the church clock starts chiming and the mass begins on the radio. Maybe people believe that’s the time Jesus was born, or “because my mom says so,” but it actually is a bit more complicated than that. Following a tradition inherited from Judaism, the Christian liturgical day starts at sunset, not at midnight. Since the invention of the clock, they settled the exact time at 18:00. This means technically, 18:00 on Christmas Eve marks the beginning of Christmas Day.
This
THE ICELANDIC YULE LADS
In most countries, one measly Santa Claus is considered quite enough. Icelanders, however, apparently favour quantity over quality and have an unruly group of 13 Yule Lads of troll ancestry roaming the mountains. If the Yule Lads ever meet Santa, we’re guessing it’s only because he’s asking them nicely to please keep it down, as he and Mrs Claus are early risers – and incidentally, do they happen to know anything about the mysterious disappearance of all of Mrs Claus’ sausages?
Naughty or nice?
The first record of our Yule Lads dates back to the 17th century, although the tales have changed a lot since then. The 13 troll sons of giantess Grýla and Leppalúði, Grýla’s third husband, were originally scary figures. According to the stories, they live with their parents somewhere in the mountains outside of town, along with the Christmas Cat. Sounds cosy, right? Well, it isn’t. The Christmas Cat eats children who don’t get new clothes for Christmas, while Grýla prefers to snack on naughty kids. The Yule Lads have a less infanticidal reputation, limiting themselves to pranks and petty thievery. They’ve mellowed a lot through the years, and hardly steal anything really valuable these days.
picked up the habit of giving small children gifts as soon as they arrived in town. The last 13 days before Christmas, children leave a single shoe on the windowsill in their room before going to bed and wake up to a little trinket from one of the lads. If they’ve been good, that is. Otherwise, they just get a potato. So, the next time you wake up to a bearded and roughlooking gentleman going through your shoes, just go back to sleep, he’s probably bringing you a present.
The names speak for themselves
The Yule Lads are pranksters, but they don’t go in for just any old trick. They’ve specialised, which is reflected in their names. The names are very descriptive and refer to their individual mischievous nature, which is further detailed in a popular 1932 poem by poet Jóhannes úr Kötlum. For instance, Þvörusleikir translates as Spoon-Licker; Hurðaskellir means Door-Slammer; Gáttaþefur is DoorwaySniffer in English, and we also have, and this is no joke, Gluggagægir, which translates to WindowPeeper. If it makes you feel better, he’s only trying to locate laufabrauð he can steal.
Introducing the Yule Lads
Illustrations by Elín Elísabet Einarsdóttir
The Icelandic Yule Lads are the 13 sons of Grýla (the folklore is not clear on their paternity, as Leppalúði is her third husband). In Iceland of yore, the Yule Lads were an incredible nuisance and brought grief to the general populace, stealing food and pranking people. Today, however, they’ve transformed into the kinder, gentler fellows who leave gifts in the shoes of obedient children.
STEKKJASTAUR
SHEEP-COTE CLOD / DEC. 12
Due to his affinity for sheep milk, Stekkjastaur spends most of his time among humans, breaking into the sheep pens and trying to suckle the ewes. Despite his disability – he has two peg legs, which makes crawling into the sheep pens challenging – he is amazingly resilient in his efforts.
GILJAGAUR
GULLY GAWK / DEC. 13
Another fan of dairy products, Giljagaur is a bit more patient, a bit more cunning, in his attempts at pilfering milk. He doesn’t try to go straight to the cow’s udders: rather, he waits until the farm workers are distracted before swooping in and slurping the froth from the fresh milk.
STÚFUR
STUB / DEC. 14
Stúfur is named for his height – or lack thereof. For some reason, he considers burnt bits of food that get stuck to the pan a special delicacy, going so far as to raid kitchens for dirty pans to get his hands on the good stuff.
ÞVÖRUSLEIKIR
SPOON LICKER / DEC. 15
Þvörusleikir is extremely tall and skinny, which may
explain his passion for wooden spoons (he’s trying to bulk up). Patiently waiting for the work to be finished in the kitchen, Þvörusleikir, quick as a flash, grabs the dirty spoons and licks them clean.
POTTASKEFILL
POT LICKER / DEC. 16
Like Stúfur, this Yule Lad also likes to lick remains from the inside of the pots. His crimes are simple but crafty; he knocks on the door, and when residents rush to see who it is, he sneaks into the kitchen and cleans out the pots.
ASKASLEIKIR
BOWL LICKER / DEC. 17
In the old days, Icelanders ate their food from lidded wooden bowls called askar. Askasleikir would creep in, hide, and snatch the askar whenever they were put aside, licking their insides clean. Since most people have upgraded to plates, he probably has, too, while keeping his name for old times’ sake.
HURÐASKELLIR
DOOR SLAMMER / DEC. 18
Waking up is never pleasant. Being woken by a loud noise, such as a door slamming –even less so. For some reason, Hurðaskellir thinks this is hilarious and goes through town slamming doors for his own amusement.
THE ONLY PENIS MUSEUM IN THE WORLD
and the most visited museum in Iceland
The Icelandic Phallological Museum, the worldʹs only penis museum, is located in the heart of Reykjavik, right by the old harbor.
The family friendly museum sports the largest penis collection on Earth, which even includes a cast of Jimi Hendrix from the late Cynthia ‘Plaster Caster’ Albritton. Visitors get a unique tongue-in-cheek opportunity to engage in comparative anatomy with the organs of hundreds of different species.
Enjoy food and drinks at the Phallic Café bistro
The museum also has a penis themed bistro where we serve our famous penis waffles, handcrafted local beers, penis themed cocktails and amazing coffee and tea from small batch local companies.
SKYRGÁMUR
SKYR GOBBLER / DEC 19
For the uninitiated, skyr (pron. skeer) is a dairy product, halfway between cheese and yoghurt. It’s fat-free, high in protein, and delicious. This might explain Skyrgámur’s size (he’s said to be the size of a bull) and his habit of eating other people’s skyr.
BJÚGNAKRÆKIR
SAUSAGE SWIPER /DEC 20
While many of the Yule Lads like stealing food, they’re usually picky about what they take. Bjúga is a salty, smoked Icelandic sausage, and a favourite of Bjúgnakrækir. He loves them so much that he doesn’t mind crawling through soot and smoke to get them.
GLUGGAGÆGIR
WINDOW PEEPER / DEC 21
Again, the name really says it all. However, it’s important to note that his intentions, although not honourable, are mostly food-related. He only peeps in windows in order to locate food he could possibly steal.
GÁTTAÞEFUR
DOOR SNIFFER / DEC 22
Gáttaþefur was from birth blessed with a huge nose, heightened olfactory senses, as well as the ability to never catch a cold. He is, as so many other Icelanders, partial to laufabrauð and uses his abnormally large nose to sniff out its hiding places.
KETKRÓKUR
MEAT HOOK / DEC 23
It’s obvious that some of the Yule Lads are more industrious and cleverer than others. Ketkrókur, for example, travels around with a long stick with a hook at the end, perfect for sticking it down chimneys in order to steal meat, preferably hangikjöt (smoked lamb).
KERTASNÍKIR
CANDLE BEGGAR / DEC 24
One of the few Yule Lads not constantly occupied with food, Kertasníkir instead enjoys stealing candles, preferably from children. This seems especially mean when you know that in the old days every kid usually got a nice candle for Christmas and sometimes not much else.
GRÝLA
Grýla is an Icelandic troll who likes the flesh of naughty children. She lives in a cave and keeps a pot of boiling water at the ready, just in case she gets wind of exceptionally disobedient children. Grýla also carries a large sack to carry around the children she catches. It should be noted that Icelandic trolls are different from Norwegian ones and are nothing like internet trolls either. They are large, almost mountain-like.
LEPPALÚÐI
Grýla’s third husband possesses few defining characteristics despite extreme laziness. He doesn’t get out much. Unlike the rest of his family, he just sits around the cave waiting for Grýla to bring him food. His name has become synonymous with being extremely ugly and/or poorly dressed.
CHRISTMAS CAT
The phrase “Christmas cat” might conjure a cosy image – but don’t be fooled. The Christmas Cat is actually the sinister sidekick of the ghastly child-eating Grýla. The Christmas Cat lives with Grýla and her slothful husband in their cave. According to legend, local children who don’t receive a new item of clothing for Christmas end up in Christmas cat’s belly. This makes absolutely no sense at all, but, hey, it’s a convenient excuse to go shopping.
Find more info on the Icelandic Yule Lads on christmasiniceland.is
Our service team is on duty 24/7 and will happily assist you at any time. Check out our tours and prices on our website.
Þorláksmessa
Do it right
December 23 is the last day before Christmas in Iceland and the stress of getting everything done in time – the presents, the cards, the food, and the decorations – is beginning to get to people. It’s not all bad though, because mixed in with the stress and anxiety is a Christmassy sense of joy and a healthy dose of commiserating with friends and relatives. You’re all in the same boat!
Skip the malls and head to Laugavegur
While Kringlan and Smáralind, the biggest shopping malls in Reykjavík, have plenty of great stores for most of your shopping needs, you just can’t beat the Christmassy atmosphere of Laugavegur, the main shopping street in the city centre, lined with the colourful little houses Reykjavík is famous for. Plus, the hot chocolate tastes so much better when you come in from the cold.
Commiserate with your fellow shoppers
If you’re not fluent in Icelandic, it might be interesting for you to know that on Þorláksmessa
you only really need to know one sentence to keep up a conversation. Just say “Jæja, ertu búin að öllu?” (“So, have you done everything yet?”). The person you’re talking to will probably get a worried look on their face and start rattling off a list of everything they haven’t, in fact, done yet. All you have to do to keep up your half of the conversation is nod sympathetically every now and then and maybe throw in a cheery Gleðileg jól (Merry Christmas) before leaving.
Go downtown, even if you don’t really need to go shopping!
I may be exaggerating a tiny bit. There are people, or so I’ve heard, who have actually finished everything before Þorláksmessa, baked all the cookies, put up all the decorations, and probably finished wrapping all the gifts in October. But even those people come downtown on Þorláksmessa. Some people like to leave one last present unbought and others just take a shamelessly purposeless walk down Laugavegur. It’s the place to be, especially during the evening. So, buy that last present, or just go get a beer or a cup of cocoa, but don’t miss out on the Þorláksmessa experience.
Try some fermented skate
We saved the best for last. You thought this was going to be all nice walks down Laugavegur
admiring the Christmas lights and drinking Christmas beer, didn’t you? Well, think again. An integral part of the Þorláksmessa experience is (I swear this is true) eating the most foul-smelling seafood Iceland has to offer, fermented skate. Fish with a cartilaginous skeleton, such as skate and shark, can be fermented for food because of the high amount of naturally occurring chemicals that preserve the fish but cause it to stink in the process. Sounds appetising, right? If you’re interested, many restaurants in Reykjavík offer a skate buffet on Þorláksmessa (usually serving other fish along with it, in case the skate turns out to be too offensive to your taste buds). Also, rumour has it that the taste is slightly better than the smell.
TASTY LOCAL CUISINE
By The Old Harbour
THE FESTIVAL
Food is a significant part of Christmas celebrations all over the world and Iceland is no exception. Every country has its own tradition and while trends and fashions can influence what families eat each year, there are some foodstuffs that just have to be a part of the
A few weeks before Christmas, cases of these juicy and sweet mini oranges arrive in stores. Although mandarins are sold all year round, the fresh harvest coming into stores in November and December has the best-tasting fruit. While mandarins are the current Christmas fruit, they’ve only recently replaced apples as the holiday fruit of choice. They’re available all year today but older Icelanders still remember a time when apples were only
CHRISTMAS COOKIES
As if Christmas can be celebrated without pepper cakes ( piparkökur)? We, uh, mean gingerbread cookies (or a close-enough relation)! Pepper cakes is just a literal translation of their Icelandic name, even though they usually contain little to no pepper. Store-bought or homemade, they’re always fun to decorate with colourful frosting. Other popular Christmas cookies include buttery vanilla wreaths, light and crunchy cocoa cookies called loftkökur (air cakes), and “mom’s cookies,” ginger cookies sandwiched together with buttercream. There used to be a time when the excellence of a homemaker was judged by the number of different types of cookies she made for Christmas. Anything less than seven was a sign of inadequacy. Thankfully, we’re past that now. For some people at least.
LEAF BREAD
Some traditions make more sense than others. Eating delicious cookies around Christmas time? Perfectly normal. Going to a Christmas buffet with your office mates? Fun and delicious. Spending a whole day with several other people carving delicate patterns in thin and fragile flour cakes which are then deep-fried in boiling fat, and served with butter come Christmas Eve? Labour-intensive to the point of insanity. Laufabrauð, or leaf bread, is very thin, pretty, and subtly delicious. Today, you can get them from the store, but many people still like to get together with family or friends and make them the old-fashioned way.
SMOKED LAMB
The traditional Icelandic Christmas dish at the start of the last century was hangikjöt. Directly translating to hanging meat, hangikjöt is simply smoked lamb and today, most people serve it on Christmas Day. The salty delicacy is usually boiled and served with potatoes, a white sauce similar to béchamel, and red cabbage from a jar. Canned peas are also popular.
MALT & APPELSÍN
alphabetical mixing order, but if you want to err on the side of caution, it’s available premixed in cans in every respectable supermarket.
There’s a special drink almost every Icelandic household serves at Christmas. It’s a non-alcoholic mixture of two soft drinks, Malt and Appelsín, produced by Iceland’s oldest soda factory, Ölgerðin. Appelsín is an Icelandic orange soda and Malt is, as the name suggests, a malt-based, non-alcoholic beer, dark brown and very sweet. There is some dispute over the correct way to mix it, Malt first or Appelsín first, dare we even suggest adding a splash of cola to the mix? The producer suggests an
a Makesplash
Children (0–15* years) Free Young people (16-17 years)* 210 kr.
Adults (18 years and older) 1330 kr.
Saunas, steambaths The place to meet locals
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)
ACCESS TO 18 GYMS AND 8 SWIMMING POOLS
World Class o ers bright, spacious, and fully equipped gyms across Iceland. Enjoy a wide variety of classes and access to 8 thermal pools.
The Icelandic Christmas Calendar
FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 1
The first Sunday of the Advent season is conveniently called Advent Sunday. In Western Christianity, Advent starts the liturgical year. The holiday is religious in nature, with Churches celebrating the birth of Jesus and the preparation for his second coming. Advent also meant a Christmas fast to some churches. These days in Iceland, Advent mostly signifies the beginning of the Christmas season. And far from fasting, it rings in a time of sweets and feasts, lights, Christmas trees, presents, and spending time with loved ones.
FIRST VISIT FROM THE YULE LADS
December 12
Instead of one Santa Claus that brings gifts on one night, Icelanders have to put up with 13 mischievous Yule Lads who might bring a small gift or a potato (if you’ve been naughty). But more than likely, they are going to cause some havoc. The first Yule Lad, Stekkjastaur (Sheep Cote-Clod), arrives on December 12 and sneaks around the farms,
bothering the sheep. This is actually pretty difficult due to his two peg legs. Regardless of what he might be doing to the sheep, leave your shoe on the windowsill and Stekkjastaur - and his brothers that will visit over the following 12 nights - might leave you a little something.
ÞORLÁKSMESSA
(St. Thorlakur’s Day)
December 23
Þorláksmessa is the day of Iceland’s patron saint, St Þorlákur. It’s the last day before Christmas that is celebrated, so for most people, this is the height of Christmas preparation. It’s the biggest shopping day of the year and many people spend the day purchasing their last few Christmas gifts. A peculiar Þorláksmessa custom is eating fermented skate. The skate’s sinus-clearing aroma and funky flavour is an acquired taste, but the idea is that it will make the Christmas feast the next day taste even sweeter.
AÐFANGADAGSKVÖLD
December 24
Second Day of Christmas, it’s not uncommon for locals to duck out early to the party, with many people figuring they’ve already spent quite enough time with their families.
(Christmas Eve)
Christmas Eve is the most important night of the Christmas celebration in Iceland. Christmas officially begins at 6pm sharp, and by that time most Icelanders have washed, have dressed in their best clothes (new clothes, ideally, to fend off the Christmas Cat), and are ready to sit down to Christmas dinner. Christmas Eve is a very intimate, festive evening that Icelanders normally spend only with their nearest and dearest. After dinner, people relocate to the living room to open presents by the Christmas tree.
JÓLADAGUR (Christmas Day)
December 25
As the main feast is already over by the time Christmas Day rolls around, most people spend the day lazing around, reading the new books they received for Christmas, or visiting the graves of loved ones. December 25 is also a day for Christmas parties when people get together with their extended families, eat hangikjöt (smoked lamb) and laufabrauð (leaf bread) and celebrate Christmas together.
ANNAR Í JÓLUM (Second Day of Christmas)
December 26
The day after Christmas Day is a public holiday in Iceland. Referred to as the Second Day of Christmas. it’s pretty much the same as Christmas Day. This time, however, Christmas is commonly celebrated with the other side of the family. On the
GAMLÁRSDAGUR (New Year’s Eve)
December 31
New Year’s Eve is a major event on the Icelandic social calendar. The fun often begins around 18:00 with a big festive dinner, followed by a bonfire (or brenna), where the Icelanders mingle and socialise. At 22:30, it is time for the eagerly awaited Áramótaskaup (New Year’s Jest) – a 50-minute long comedy special on TV. More than 90% of the Icelandic nation watches Áramótaskaupið, which means that the streets are virtually deserted. The New Year’s madness begins to build as soon as the credits roll. At midnight, all hell breaks loose. In Iceland, fireworks are sold unrestricted to the public between Christmas and New Year’s. This nation of only 385,000 people manages to ignite over 500 tonnes of fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
ÞRETTÁNDINN (Twelfth Night)
January 6
If you didn’t quench your thirst for arson and explosions on New Year’s Eve, don’t worry, there’s always Þrettándinn (Twelfth Night). There’s a lot of superstition regarding Þrettándinn. The last Yule Lad heads back to the mountains, the elves and the hidden people move houses (keep your lights on the whole night so they don’t settle in one of your dark corners), cows speak, and seals shed their skin to walk on land as men. There’s usually a bonfire where people can finish off the last of their fireworks and the kids get a visit from the elf king and queen.
THE SITUATION ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA
At the time of writing, the most recent eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula began on August 22 and ended September 5. While the string of eruptions that began in Iceland in 2021 first proved to be a largely harmless tourist attraction, the effect on the town of Grindavík has been a reminder to take these forces of nature seriously.
Grindavík was opened to the public again on 21 October after being closed with exceptions for residents and other relevant people for over a year. Visitors still need to exercise caution. Lava that appears dry and cool can still be molten just below the surface.
Many visitors are also curious about the impact on the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal lagoon on the Reykjanes peninsula, and one of Iceland’s mostvisited tourist destinations. Since the beginning of the volcanic unrest on the Reykjanes peninsula, the Blue Lagoon has had to evacuate several times. At the time of writing, the Blue Lagoon is open, but this can of course change at a moment’s notice. We recommend staying up to date and checking
your reservation online before you go. Check for the latest updates here: bluelagoon.com/seismic-activity
Geologists predict the next eruption could occur with very little notice. The rest of Iceland is not affected by these events and is safe to travel. The airport in Keflavík operates normally and flights are unlikely to be affected, even in case of another eruption.
Please keep yourself informed during your travels in Iceland and exercise common sense.
Good resources in English are:
• Daily news: Icelandreview.com
• Official travel warnings: safetravel.is,
• Icelandic Road Administration: road.is,
• The Icelandic Met Office: vedur.is
• Website of the Department of Civil Protection (https://www.almannavarnir.is/english/).
safetravel.is
Kolagata
REYKJAVÍK CITY MAP
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, and 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 Gourmand-awarded Skál, there’s something for everybody!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
THE REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM
The Reykjavík Art Museum has three locations: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn. 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.
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.
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.
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.
Christmas Events
THE CHRISTMAS VALLEY
REYKJAVÍK FAMILY ZOO - NOV 29-DEC. 23
The family park that sits in the back of the Reykjavík Zoo becomes a beautiful display of Christmas lights during the Advent season. From Thursday through Sunday during this time, the park will be open from 10am-8pm. Some of the rides are still operational, such as the roundabout. Admission is free for children under 12. While in the area, take a walk through the Botanical Garden, which will also be lit up with Christmas lights.
THE YULE LADS CHRISTMAS GAME
DOWNTOWN REYKJAVÍK - DECEMBER 1
Starting on December 1, you will be able to find the pesky Yule Lads in 3D hanging around on houses and buildings all around Reykjavík. Can you find them all? If so, you can win a prize from the city! Children scramble around the city during the holidays to try and find all the Yule characters for a chance for a small gift card from the city.
CHRISTMAS FOOD MARKET
HARPA - DECEMBER 14-15, 11AM-5PM
Christmas is a time to celebrate with friends and family, sure, but we all know what’s most important - the food! Fishermen, farmers, and small-market food companies gather at Harpa for the Christmas Food Market. Showcasing some of the best
ingredients and products Icelandic farmers and entrepreneurs can think of, the food fair is a great spot to pick up a souvenir from Iceland - or just a snack for the road!
CHRISTMAS PROGRAMME
ÁBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM
DECEMBER 8 & 15 - 1PM-4PM
Celebrate Christmas in the old-fashioned way at the Christmas Programme at the Árbær Open Air Museum. The oldest houses in Reykjavík will be fully decorated for the season, and inside each building, you can find something new: someone cooking a smelly pot of Skate, a place to decorate the traditional Leaf Bread, and a demonstration on how candles are made. You can make your own holiday card before singing and dancing around the big Christmas tree. But be on the lookout! The Yule Lads will surely be running around the museum!
THE YULE LADS VISIT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND
DECEMBER 13-24
The Yule Lads visit the National Museum from the 13th of December until 24th, daily at 11am. They wear their old Icelandic costumes and sing and tell children (and adults) stories. Admission ticket is needed.
3 3 3 3 3 3 3
Open Nov. 15th – Dec. 23rd:
Fridays: 5 pm - 9 pm
Saturdays: 1 pm – 6 pm
Sundays: 1 pm – 6 pm
Christmas Markets
A highlight of the holiday season for many Icelanders is visiting Reykjavík’s christmas markets. Handmade crafts, lopapeysa sweaters, baked goods and much much more will be for sale in small pop-up booths set up on different streets and squares. There is bound to be hot chocolate, lights, and music to get you in the festive mood!
HAFNARFJÖRÐUR CHRISTMAS MARKET
November 15 - December 23. Open Fridays 5:008:00 pm. Weekends 1:00-6:00 pm. (Skating rink is open Thursday-Sunday until the end of December) Downtown Hafnarfjörður turns into a festive market every Christmas season. Hafnarfjörður residents and local companies will participate in making this year’s Christmas Village the biggest one yet. Thorsplan plaza is transformed into a Christmas market selling everything from Icelandic design and crafts to snacks and hot drinks, there will be plenty of concerts and events, and an ice-skating rink. It is easy to get to Hafnarfjörður from Reykjavík –just jump on the no 1 bus, which will take you on a 20-minute ride straight to the downtown area for a wonderful Christmas experience.
HJARTATORG SQUARE CHRISTMAS MARKET
November 30 - December 1, December 7-8, 14-15, 21-23. Open 1:00-6:00 pm; 4:00-8:00 pm from December 21-23.
WHAT’S ON
The Christmas market at Hjartatorg Square is a classic Christmas market following the European tradition. Handicrafts, delicacies, knick-knacks, and hot chocolate are sold by a diverse selection of retailers. The goods will be sold from small wooden houses and Christmas decorations and lights everywhere will ensure the Christmas spirit is all around. Hjartatorg Square is just off the main walking street, Laugavegur, behind the 66 North clothing store.
ICE SKATING AND CHRISTMAS MARKET AT INGÓLFSTORG SQUARE
Weekends starting November 30, then December 20-23. Check online for hours.
Ingólfstorg Square is in the heart of downtown on Austurstræti and 100,000 light bulbs will light up the beautiful square. In addition to the Ingólfstorg ice-skating rink, a Christmas market will be also located at Ingólfstorg square surrounding the ice rink and down to Austurstræti street, where both refreshments and merchandise will be for sale. Helmets and skates can be rented on-site. A great place for family fun!
CHRISTMAS MARKET IN HEIÐMÖRK FOREST
November 30 - December 1, December 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22 Open 12:00-5:00 pm.
The beloved wooded area on the outskirts of Reykjavík, Heiðmörk, is normally a place for hiking and mountain biking. But on the weekends leading up to Christmas, you can find a Christmas market hidden in the trees. The vendors here focus on products made with natural materials and objects inspired by or made from the forest. What better place to get in the Christmas spirit than a winter wonderland?
"EastWest provides exceptional small group tours and private tours so you can enjoy the famous Golden Circle, the dramatic landscapes of the South coast, the breathtaking peninsula of Snæfellsnes, or the incredible Northern lights. Our driver-guides deliver travel experiences of the highest quality in a prime fleet of Mercedes-Benz Sprinters with USB connectors and onboard WIFI."
What are you doing New Years Eve?
Christmas is great; some people even say it’s the best. But when Christmas Eve has come and gone, and you’ve been to all the family parties, eaten all the cookies and opened all the presents, what’s there to look forward to? New Year’s Eve, that’s what.
If you are a kid (or a grown-up with a moderate to severe interest in lighting fires), this evening can be just as fun as Christmas, but on a completely different level.
A FAMILY AFFAIR – AT FIRST
New Year’s Eve in Iceland is a very special event, and it’s the party night of the year. This might not be completely clear in the early evening, because many Icelanders start the night with a family dinner (turkey has become popular), followed by watching the annual comedy revue on television. Around midnight, an amazing fireworks show starts off.
COME ON, BABY, LIGHT MY FIRE
There is a reason for our burning desire to set things on fire, as there is an old superstition that says you have to burn away the old year to wake up on New Year’s Day with a clean slate. Just in case the fireworks aren’t enough, we also have New Year’s Eve bonfires. Since the bonfires promise to burn away the sins of the year gone by, you can imagine how popular they are. Most towns have one, of varying sizes, and Reykjavík even has 10 in separate
neighbourhoods. The bonfires are usually lit at around 20:30. That’s after dinner, but before the annual comedy revue starts.
ÁRAMÓTASKAUPIÐ
– THE ANNUAL COMEDY REVUE
Áramótaskaupið is a 50-minute comedy special satirising the year’s most prominent events, and it’s been on since 1966, which incidentally is the year RÚV (the Icelandic national broadcasting service) started broadcasting. Just how big of a deal is it? Well, in 2002, 95% of the population was watching. The other 5% were probably doctors and nurses on call tending to burns, their patients, and maybe a bartender or two. New Year’s Day conversations in Iceland are limited to discussions about what people thought of Skaupið, as it is affectionately known. Every year, Áramótaskaupið is shown in Icelandic on RÚV, and at the same time on RÚV 2 with English subtitles. Both channels are accessible on RÚV’s website.
FIREWORKS GALORE
Fireworks are illegal in Iceland for the majority of the year. But leading up to (and even a week after) New Year’s Eve, you can hear the bangs and pops all over the city. ICE-SAR, the volunteer Search and Rescue team, sells fireworks every year for the holiday as
a fundraiser. So your money is going to a good cause! As it gets closer to midnight on New Year’s Eve, people begin to gather around Hallgrímskirkja church. Things can get chaotic, with everyone setting off their own fireworks in a crowded area, so it’s common to see people wearing safety goggles!
THE PARTY
It might surprise you, but it’s not until after midnight that the actual party gets started. After the fireworks have been lit and hot chocolate has been had with older family members, that’s when people put on their glitter hats, get their confetti bombs ready and head out, drink in one hand, and a lit sparkler in the other. House parties are popular, and downtown Reykjavík quickly starts filling up with eager partygoers.
ELVES AND HIDDEN PEOPLE
There’s a fair bit of folklore dedicated to the beginning of a new year. According to tales, this is the night that the elves and hidden people move to a new house, cows speak, and seals leave their seal skin and walk on land as men. While few people have a strong belief in stories of elves and trolls anymore, many people still make sure to leave at least one light on for the whole night, for the hidden people.
Laxnes Horse Farm is a family owned and operated business with our horses being part of the family and treated as such. We offer a variety of day tours, combo tours and daily private tours. Please visit our site www.laxnes.is for further information and frequently asked questions.
Our Tours
Laxnes Special
A trek on the hardy, sure-footed Icelandic horse is an experience to remember. Whether you are a beginner or expert, old or young, these friendly horses, with their alert and willing nature are indeed a pleasure to ride in their natural surroundings.
Laxnes Private Tour
The private tour is a variation of our Laxnes Special tour and will have daily departures by summer 2023. You´ll be able to tailor your tour time to up to two hours and enjoy the farm surroundings at your own pace.
Laxnes Combo Tours
Combine our Laxnes Special tour with a variety of different activities in one booking for a full day of adventure. Puffin or Whale watching or the Golden Circle combinations with our riding tours are just a click away on our site.
NEW YEAR’S EVE BONFIRES
Once New Year’s Eve rolls around, Icelanders tend to discover their inner pyromaniacs. Besides the tonnes of fireworks that are ignited every year, Icelanders also boast the unique tradition of New Year’s bonfires.
The first documented New Year’s Eve bonfire occurred in 1791 when a group of schoolboysstanding on a hill in downtown Reykjavík, which they nicknamed Vulcan (in honour of the Roman god of fire) - gathered some old barrels and lit them. Since then, the tradition of New Year’s Eve bonfires has spread throughout the country.
New Year’s Eve bonfires in the Capital Area
The closest bonfire to the city centre, takes place on Ægisíða (1), right by the seaside. We suggest heading over to get into the mood for the night.
New Year’s bonfires have changed a bit over time though; in the beginning, they revolved largely around causing a drunken ruckus. These days, however, they’re more of a family affair, with families gathering around in a symbolic ritual of leaving the old year behind.
Bonfires take place all over the capital area, and we encourage you to track one down and take part in this long standing tradition.
Below you will find 9 out of the 10 locations where the largest bonfires of New Year’s Eve will take place (larger bonfires are marked on the map with a larger fire symbol). Most of the bonfires will be lit at 20:30 on New Year’s Eve, except for the bonfire on Úlfarsfell mountain (3), which is lit at 15:00, and the one in Skerjafjörður (2), which is lit at 21:00 following a torch parade.
Fireworks are strictly forbidden at bonfires for safety reasons. There is no organised schedule for these events, but people normally gather to sing songs and we urge you to join in. Hum it till you make it.
Taking the bus in Iceland
If you‘re staying in Reykjavík for any period of time, you might want to get acquainted with the public transportation system, STRÆTÓ.
We don’t have trains or an underground system, only our beautiful yellow public buses. They‘ll take you nearly anywhere you need to go, but you might require some help to navigate the system. If you’re looking for some tips to make your life easier on the streets of Reykjavík, here’s how to take the bus in Reykjavík.
Buying a ticket
As of this writing, a single adult ticket costs ISK 650. Children 11 years and younger are free, the disabled pay ISK 195, and seniors and children 12-17 pay ISK 325. You can buy a ticket on the bus, but only if you have the exact amount in cash (the drivers don‘t have change).
You can pay for your fare through the app, Klappið. Using only your smartphone, you can pay for one-
time fares for individual rides, purchase Klapp 10 (10 tickets), or buy a one-month or a one-year pass. It should be noted that you will need to use data or WiFi to make this transaction and use it on the bus.
Taking the bus outside the city limits
Unlike the city buses, the regional buses taking you north, south or west accept card payments. Prices vary depending on your destination. If you are staying in or travelling to the countryside, taking the bus in Iceland via STRÆTÓ, the Klappið app won’t work. If you plan on taking the bus to the countryside, your payment options are debit or credit card, a prepaid bus card, or good, oldfashioned cash. Note that countryside buses, unlike the city bus, do give change.
When do the buses leave?
The timetables can be found on the STRÆTÓ website. Generally, the buses start running before
7 am on weekdays (slightly later on weekends, but still before 10 am) and run until around midnight, depending on routes. When deciding which bus to take, get the route number and the terminus. While you’re waiting for the bus, check to make sure you’re waiting on the right side of the street. On a little sign right next to the bus stop, you’ll find the timetable for your route. Above the timetable, you’ll find the names of the bus stops on the way (the one you’re on is specially marked) with the terminus at the end of the line, make sure it matches the one you’re supposed to take. If it doesn’t, cross the street. When the bus arrives it will also be clearly marked with the route number and the terminus. Occasionally, the bus drivers forget to change it at the end of the line, so just in case, it doesn’t hurt to ask the driver. They can also help you figure out when to step off the bus.
Changing buses
If you need to change routes or get on a different bus for the full journey, you can reuse your Klappið ticket for 75 minutes. If you paid by cash, just ask for a “transfer ticket” when you enter the bus. The ticket is valid for 75 minutes, and you can show it to the bus driver when you enter the next bus. If using
the Klappið app, you will also have 75 minutes to use your ticket. Simply scan the same ticket on the bus you are getting on, and it will work exactly the same. If you have a different question about strætó, let us know! There’s also more information on the STRÆTÓ website and on the Klappið website!
Travelers should note that Hlemmur, Reykjavík’s central bus station, is closed for construction. Stay up to date with the latest route changes and more at straeto.is
Download Klappid app
The official Icelandic public transport app for the capital area Search for “Klappid” in the App Store or on Google Play
• Buy tickets
• Plan your trip
• Bus location in real time
New in Town
Manuscript Exhibition in Edda
Arngrímsgata 5
The exhibition World in Words opened on 16 November, showcasing Iceland’s most treasured cultural artefacts: the ancient manuscripts. These invaluable documents, filled with sagas, poems, and other writings, offer a glimpse into the lives, beliefs, and society of past generations.
Rammagerðin
Laugavegur 31
Rammagerðin has opened a new flagship store in a 600 sqm space on Laugavegur (called Kirkjuhúsið). It comes in addition to smaller stores downtown on Skólavörðustígur and in Harpa Concert Hall. Rammagerðin is the only clothing store in Iceland working solely with local designers and has been doing so for 84 years.
Mar Seafood
Frakkastígur 8B
MAR Seafood is a new and exciting seafood restaurant in downtown Reykjavík. The restaurant offers original appetisers, homely seafood courses with Icelandic ingredients in classic recipes that all Icelanders are familiar with. The atmosphere is cosy with a fancy design that highlights fishing and seamanship.
Kormákur og Skjöldur
Laugavegur 29
The classic menswear store Kormákur og Skjöldur opens in a new location in a historic house by Laugavegur 29, that used to house hardware shop Brynja for 103 years. Kormákur Geirharðsson first opened Kormákur og Skjöldur in 1996 and are now moving from Kjörgarður further up on Laugavegur, where they have had a shop since 2006.
Edda
Rammagerðin
BACH ADVENT CONCERT
DECEMBER 1 • HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA CATHEDRAL Works by J.S. Bach; solo cantata, solo harpsichord concerto and cantata for choir, orchestra and soloist. The original instrument is played in baroque tuning. For years, Hallgrímskirkja has been a leader in the performance of baroque music on original instruments in Iceland.
HOW TO BECOME ICELANDIC IN 60 MINUTES
NOVEMBER 13 - DECEMBER 31 • HARPA
Learn how to become Icelandic in just one hour. Learn to walk, talk and behave like a regular Icelander. The show is not a traditional stand up comedy, rather a blend of incisive and visual observation of the Icelanders human condition, their attitudes, struggles and everyday life. Laugh and learn and feel 100% Icelandic at the end of the show.
KK & JÓN JÓNSSON
ADVENT CONCERT
DECEMBER 6 • FRÍKIRKJA
Get a truly Icelandic experience with two of the nation’s most beloved singer-songwriters in performance together. KK (Kristján Kristjánsson) and Jón Jónsson will be holding a special Advent concert, playing songs that every Icelander knows and loves. Tickets have sold out to past performances, and it’s recommended to buy tickets early online. Tickets are available on tix.is.
UNA TORFA
DECEMBER 14 • SALURINN IN KÓPAVOGUR
Una Torfa has been writing music since childhood and released a new album this year. She will perform a mix of her own songs and Christmas songs, joined by Hafsteinn Þráinsson on guitar. It promises to be a peaceful and cosy atmosphere.
CHRISTMAS SYMPHONY CONCERTS
DECEMBER 14-15 • HARPA
The Icelandic Symphony Orchestra returns with its beloved series of Christmas concerts. Hear modern Christmas classics performed alongside the triedand-true Christmas traditions in a performance that’s guaranteed to get the whole family in the Christmas spirit! Local young musicians will also be in attendance alongside singers Ragnheiður Gröndal, Benedikt Kristjánsson and Kolbrún Völkudóttir. The presenter is Barbara, the clown played by actress Halldóra Geirharðsdóttir. If you’re looking for your dose of holiday cheer, this is it!
RETRO STEFSON
DECEMBER 28 • N1 HÖLLIN
Retro Stefson has been among the most popular bands in Iceland since they entered the scene in 2006 for their catchy and dance friendly songs. Now, they are gathering again after a pause of eight years, playing through their industrious career. If their earlier concerts are anything to go by, the audience is in for a treat. Tickets available on tix.is
SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON
MUSEUM
Imprints of Laugarnes
Graphite works by the multidisciplinary artist Carl Philippe Gionet which explore the interplay between the natural environmentparticularly the pat terns and textures found in the surrounding rocks - and the artistic legacy of Sigurjón Ólafsson. Laugarnes, where the Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum is located, is known for its rugged landscape and rich history, serves as a primary source of inspiration.
Laugarnestangi 70 • 105 Reykjavík
Tel: 553 2906
REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN
At Hand
Ends December 1st
This new exhibition features works by Ásmundur Sveinsson and contemporary artists exploring traditional handwork practices. Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893–1982) was one of the pioneers of Icelandic sculpture in the 20th century. The display celebrates Ásmundur’s
exhibition, contemporary artists showcase the integration of hand practices into their artworks. Ásmundur’s upbringing in rural Iceland significantly influenced his creative approach, showcasing his genius and craftsmanship in diverse mediums. Curated by Becky Forsythe, the exhibition highlights a shared exploration of material possibilities.
Sigtún • 105 Reykjavík
Tel: 411 6430
AURORA REYKJAVÍK
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 great joy that we welcome Aurora Reykjavík – The Northern Lights Centre, where the northern lights are always on display. Aurora Reykjavík’s pull and ace up its sleeve is its fantastic 4k time-lapse film of the Aurora Borealis.
Aurora Reykjavík’s latest additions
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!
For more information, see www.aurorareykjavik.is.
Fiskislóð 53 • 101 Reykjavík
Tel: 780 4500
GERÐARSAFN ART MUSEUM
GERÐUR permanent exhibition
Gerður Helgadóttir (1928-1975) was a pioneering Icelandic sculptor known for her avant-garde and experimental approach to three-dimensional abstract art. Gerðarsafn, founded in her honour, hosts a permanent exhibition showcasing her prolific creativity and use of diverse materials. This exhibition highlights the complexity and innovation of her work, reflecting her wide-ranging interests. With a collection of fifteen hundred works, Gerðarsafn – Kópavogur Art Museum is the only museum in Iceland dedicated to a female artist, celebrating Gerður’s significant contributions to art.
PARABOLA
Finnbogi Pétursson
In the exhibition PARABOLA, Finnbogi Pétursson makes visible the rhythm of Earth. The artist uses sound, but instead of resounding, it creates movement. The sound ripples the water like an invisible drop falling, creating waves that travel across the surface of the water. In a way that is particular to this planet. The ripples travel to a beat. Sine waves pulsate across a specific part of the water which is framed in oblong
MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS
pools. The artist uses water, air, light and sound as shapeable matter.
Unstable Ground — Gunndís Ýr
Finnbogadóttir and Þorgerður Ólafsdóttir
Unstable Ground is an ongoing collaboration and practice-based research by artists Gunndís Ýr
Finnbogadóttir and Þorgerður Ólafsdóttir. The project explores the experiences of individuals who visited the island of Surtsey between 1963 and 2022, for various reasons and purposes. Using microphenomenological interviews, their method captures intricate details and descriptions of personal encounters with Surtsey’s environment that reveal the rich narratives of participants’ vivid memories of these past (physical) experiences
Hamraborg 4 • 200 Kópavogur
Tel: 441 7600
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND
Looking Inward, Looking Outward: 140 years of the National Gallery of Iceland
To mark the 140th anniversary of the National Gallery of Iceland, the
museum will devote its galleries to a selection of outstanding works by approximately 100 artists from the collection. Each of the four halls of the museum at Fríkirkjuvegur will center on a theme: form, the individual, society, and the natural world. The exhibition will reflect on the importance of the museum as a place for preservation and a living forum for the meaningful exchange of ideas.
Fríkirkjuvegur 7 • 101 Reykjavík
Tel: 515 9600
HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS
Resistance
“Resistance” is an interdisciplinary exhibition at the National Gallery of Iceland, catering to all ages and merging visual arts with science. The showcased works explore resistance in both a general and physical context, symbolising opposition to consumption and essential action against climate change. Centred on the sustainability discourse, the artworks prompt contemplation of ethical issues surrounding efforts to enhance sustainability. Different themes, such as land, air, ocean, principles and play can be explored by the visitors. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on existence, nature, and personal choices, emphasising the reciprocal effects that contribute to a more sustainable life.
Stay and Turn to Stone!
Folklore in Icelandic Art
The National Gallery of Iceland has many treasures that offer invaluable insight into the visual cultural heritage of the people in Iceland. The depiction of folklore and folktales has been a source of inspiration for Icelandic artists from the beginning of the 20th century to the present day. In Europe, Folktales were first set down recorded in writing in
the 19th century, starting with the Brothers Grimm in Germany. In Iceland, folktales were collected by Jón Árnason, who published a two-volume collection of Icelandic Folk- and Fairytales in 1862-64. The books became hugely popular. The stories even provided inspiration in the Icelandic campaign for selfdetermination in the latter half of the 19th century and contributed to the Icelanders’ growing sense of a national folk culture.
Hverfisgata 15 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 515 9600
REYKJAVIK
ART MUSEUM
KJARVALSSTAÐIR
Kjarval and the 20th Century: When Modernity Anchored Ends December 31st
This exhibition showcases artworks by numerous Icelandic artists and Iceland’s most influential painter Jóhannes S. Kjarval, over the span of sixty years after the turn of the 20th century. During Kjarval’s lifetime, enormous changes shaped the Icelandic society, orchestrated by industrialization and travels abroad. Icelandic artists returned from Europe with fresh ideas in their minds, inspired for a shift in their artistic styles. When Modernity anchored depicts that paradigm shift in breaking away from naturalistic imagery to a more symbolism-oriented artstyle.
Sigurður Guðmundsson
Stórval
FRESH ICELANDIC SEAFOOD
• Grilled lamb prime
• Icelandic cod
• Best monkfish in town
• 37 Wines by the glass
Havoc – Hall grímur Helgason
Hallgrímur Helgason is the seventh artist chosen to participate in the Reykjavík Art Museum’s Kjarvalsstaðir exhibition series, where the career of key figures in Icelandic art is reviewed. Hallgrímur spent a year at the Art School of Iceland and another one at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich, Germany. Since 1983 he has been working as an independent artist and writer. He started out as a painter, and has held over 30 solo shows and participated in over 30 group exhibitions home and abroad. As a struggling artist he lived in Boston 1985-86, in New York 198689 and in Paris 1990-1995.
Flókagata 24 • 105 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6420
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.
Future Fragments
The exhibition “Future Fragments” by Þorgerður Ólafsdóttir explores the Anthropocene and cultural heritage. It presents new artworks alongside objects from Iceland’s National Museum, categorized as “now-remains.” It features research from Surtsey Island and hints at a future collection reflecting the Anthropocene’s impact on culture and nature. Collaborators include designer Garðar Eyjólfsson and the research project “Relics of Nature” led by archaeology professor Þóra Pétursdóttir.
The Lögrétta Valences
To mark Iceland’s 80th Republic anniversary, the National Museum
& EXHIBITIONS
The Lögrétta Valences
collaborates with Þingvellir National Park, showcasing valences from the late 18th century Lögrétta (Court of Legislature). Originally at Þingvellir, sold to Robert Mackay Smith in 1858, they now belong to National Museum Scotland. These wool and linen bed canopies feature embroidered decorations and texts, including an adage and part of Hallgrímur Pétursson’s Passion Hymns. On loan from National Museums Scotland, the exhibition will run for a year.
Picturing a Nation
The National Museum of Iceland and the National Film Archive of Iceland collaborate on an exhibition commemorating the events of May and June 1944, leading to the establishment of the Republic of Iceland on June 17th. Unveiling previously unseen footage from the Film Archives, the exhibit will feature photographs, objects, and personal accounts from the National Museum’s collections. It aims to portray the public’s involvement and experiences during this pivotal period in Icelandic history, marked by significant political developments and active citizen participation.
Suðurgata 41 • 102 Reykjavík
Tel: 530 2200
Hallgrímur Helgason
EVENTS
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.
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.
Kistuhylur 4 • 110 Reykjavík
Tel: 411 6320
AÐALSTRÆTI
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 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.
Reykjavík
...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.
Aðalstræti 16 • 101 Reykjavík
Tel: 411 6370
EINAR JÓNSSON SCULPTURAL 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 and display the work of Einar as well as to conduct research on his life and art.
Hallgrímstorg 3 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 3797
Einar Jónsson Museum
MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART
At Home in The Design Museum
The “At Home in The Design Museum” exhibition showcases 200+ art pieces of Icelandic design, part of the museum’s 5,000-artifact collection spanning from 1900 to the present. The three-year exhibition captures the essence of Icelandic design evolution. Emulating a home blueprint, the exhibition presents objects from different eras, echoing the diversity found in households. Furniture, tableware, books, and textiles offer a glimpse into the creative output of Icelandic designers within the last 100 years. A time capsule on Icelandic design. Garðatorg 1 • 210 Garðabær Tel: 512 1525
HAFNARBORG MUSEUM
Kahalii: Arngunnur Ýr
The exhibition will feature new and recent paintings by Arngunnur Ýr, focusing on the artist’s relocation to Hawaii – in a beautiful area where nature is now giving way to human settlement. There, Arngunnur and her husband are in the process of building a house, forming a link
between the works and local history, but this was historically the site of a village of Native Hawaiians.
Settlement: Pétur Thomsen
Human activities over the past centuries have had such an impact on the Earth that it constitutes its own geological epoch: the Anthropocene. Population growth, the rise of megacities, the burning of fossil fuels and ecosystem collapse are some of the factors that contribute quantitatively to climate change and global warming. Settlement is a photo series that Pétur Thomsen has been working on for a few years, but it has only been exhibited in part until now.
Strandgata 34 • 220 Hafnarfjörður Tel: 585 5790
REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY RASK
Photographer Agnieszka Sosnowska and poet Ingunn Snædal explore themes of loss, memory, and nature in their collaborative visual narrative. Their work reflects on land erosion in East Iceland and a local tragedy where a farmer’s suicide left his children waiting with his body. The
project delves into the emotions and experiences tied to this event, asking how we control the uncontrollable. Sosnowska and Snædal’s work intertwines curiosity, spirituality, and the search for meaning in landscapes and lives.
Laimonas Dom BaranauskasYears in Between
The idea that beauty is only found in youth is persistent in society. The goal of Laimonas Dom Baranauskas with the exhibition “Years in Between” is to challenge this societal notion by showing the beauty and uniqueness that comes with age. In the exhibition, five women are portrayed, aged between around fifty and eighty.
Tryggvagata 15 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6390
REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS
Jónsi - Installation: Flood
The viewer enters a darkened space and is surrounded by mist and the scent of the ocean. All around echo sounds originating from nature, digital processing and the human voice. The sound sequence grows and escalates, the sensation extends from the ears to the bottom of the stomach, the reverberation floods the body in waves. A streak of light in the ceiling reacts to the
& EXHIBITIONS
Laimonas Dom Baranauskas
Petur Thomsen
sound and further enhances the multi-layered perception that the process offers.
Erró — 1001 Night
When Erró started making the photo series 1001 Night in 1977, his idea was to combine 1001 works of fine art to publish in a book. Each work was intended to be accompanied by a text by an author. But in 1981, he had only managed to paint 121 paintings. He continued in 1982, adding five more to the series and further 11 in 1983. In total, he painted 137 works belonging to the series 1001 Night
Hreinn Friðfinnsson – From Time - To Time
Reykjavík Art Museum exhibits Hreinn Friðfinnsson’s works from the collection. His work is a poetic and philosophical exploration into every-day human experience where time and coincidence play an important role. Based on works in Reykjavík Art Museum‘s collection, the exhibition reflects his manifold attempts to handle transience and capture infinity in time and space.
Tryggvagata 17 • 101 Reykjavík
Tel: 411 6400
REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM
We are Earth – We are Water by Heimir Freyr Hlöðversson The video artwork “We are Earth – We are Water” provides a unique glimpse into nature’s sublime forms, blending the micro and macro through technological innovation. This dreamy visual exploration unveils ever-changing, unnoticed patterns, inviting viewers into the materials’ essence and their transformative processes. Nature’s profound teachings on transformation, intrinsic to life’s cycles, take centre stage. The piece also underscores the contemporary reality of drastic natural transformations fueled by global warming. Tangible effects, from shrinking glaciers to erratic climates, raise awareness. Amidst the palpable shifts, a sense of powerlessness emerges, prompting reflection on how to address and prevent further global warming, creating a poignant narrative on our collective responsibility.
Grandagarður 8 • 101 Reykjavík
Tel: 411 6340
I8 GALLERY GRANDI
Andreas Eriksson – Real Time
“Real Time,” a year-long exhibition by Andreas Eriksson at i8 Grandi, will dynamically evolve with the addition of one new painting monthly, all uniform in size, culminating in twelve paintings by December. Eriksson also introduces a new edition in the form of a calendar, with 366 copies mirroring the year’s length. This marks the third year-long showcase at i8 Grandi, exploring concepts of space and time. Eriksson’s immersive exhibition invites reflection on the fluidity of time and its impact on artistry, offering a unique viewing experience.
Grandagarður 20 • 101 Reykjavík
Tel: 551 3666
MANUSCRIPT EXHIBITION IN EDDA
World in Words
A new exhibition called World in Words has opened In Edda the house for Icelandic studies, showcasing Iceland’s most treasured cultural artefacts: the ancient manuscripts. The exhibition offers a chance to view medieval Icelandic manuscripts containing valuable cultural heritage. This includes ancient stories and renowned poetry, as well as various other texts reflecting the ideas that previous generations had about life and the societies they lived in. The exhibition endeavors to open up to guests the diverse world of medieval manuscripts.
Arngrímsgata 5 • 107 Reykjavík Tel: 525 4020
Flateyjarbók
Welcome Aboard Frakkastígur 8b
HÖFUÐSTÖÐIN
Höfuðstöðin is an art and culture centre that permanently displays the large-scale multi-sensory installation Chromo Sapiens by Shoplifter / Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir. Höfuðstöðin opened in 2022 and is the first self funded art center created by an Icelandic female artist around her own work, and raised over $100.000 on Kickstarter before its opening.
Chromo Sapiens is Shoplifter’s monumental, multi-sensory, largescale installation that debuted at the Icelandic Pavilion for the Venice Biennale in 2019, to worldwide critical acclaim. The installation consists of three caves made from Shoplifter’s signature material, synthetic hair extensions. The installation surrounds the viewer’s horizon with soundscapes from the Icelandic band HAM in each cave. Entering the installation as homo sapiens, you are invited to explore your inner landscape through the
stimulation of the senses, where you are the destination of the journey, and when exiting you have transformed into Chromo Sapiens.
THE ICELANDIC PUNK MUSEUM
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.
ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM
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.
Kistuhylur, Reykjavík 411-6304 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is
Hours: Daily 13-17
MINK VIKING PORTRAIT EXPERIENCE
Become fierce Vikings in a professional, private photoshoot dressed in traditional clothing and wielding authentic weapons. Learn the Norse ways guided by local experts. This experience is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, groups, and families.
Laugavegur 11, Reykjavík 537-7577 | www.mink.is
VIÐEY ISLAND
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
THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION
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.
Aðalstræti 10 & 16, Reykjavík | 411-6370 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is
Hours: Daily 10-17
REYKJAVÍK ... THE STORY CONTINUES
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.
Aðalstræti 10, 101 Reykjavík 411 6300 | www.borgarsogusafn.is
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.
Grandagarður 8, Reykjavík | 411-6340 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is
EINAR JÓNSSON SCULPTURE MUSEUM
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.
Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavík 551-3797 | www.lej.is
Hours: Tue-Sun 12-17
WHALES OF ICELAND
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.
Fiskislóð 23-25 , Reykjavík 571-0077 | www.whalesoficeland.is
Hours: Daily 10-17
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
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.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND
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.
Suðurgata 41, Reykjavík 530-2200 | www.nationalmuseum.is
SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM
A museum that Icelandic sculptor Sigurjón Ólafsson’s wife founded as a tribute to his life and work in 1984. She had his studio in Laugarnes converted to an exhibition space to house his collection of works, including sculptures, sketches, drawings and biographical material.
THE LAVA SHOW
Step into a mesmerizing world where molten earth meets artistic expression and scientific exploration. The Lava Show in Iceland invites you to witness the raw power and elegance of volcanic forces with the world’s only live lava show!
Fiskislóð 73, Reykjavík
553-0005 | icelandiclavashow.com
Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17
THE ICELANDIC PHALLOLOGICAL MUSEUM
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.
Hafnartorg, Reykjavík 561-6663 | www.phallus.is
Hours: Daily 10-19
PERLAN
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.
Varmahlíð 1, Reykjavík 566-9000 | www.perlan.is
Hours: 9-22
FLYOVER ICELAND
FlyOver Iceland utilises state-of-theart 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.
Fiskislóð 43, 101 Reykjavík. 527-6700. www.flyovericeland.is Hours: Mon-Fri, 11:00-19:00 & Sat-Sun, 11:00-19:00.
Laugarnestangi 70 553-2906 | www.lso.is
Hours: Closed in January
AURORA REYKJAVIK
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.
Fiskislóð 53, Reykjavík 780-4500 | www.aurorareykjavik.is
Hours: Daily
MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART
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
KJARVALSSTAÐIR
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.
Flókagata 24, Reykjavík 411-6420 | www.artmuseum.is
Hours: Daily 10-17
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
ÁSMUNDARSAFN
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.
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
GERÐARSAFN
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.
Hamraborg 4, Kópavogur 441-7600 | www.gerdarsafn.is
Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17
HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS
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.
Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is
Hours: Daily 10-17
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.
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
THE NORDIC HOUSE
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.
Sturlugata 5, Reykjavík 551-7030 | www.nordice.is
Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17
Meet some of Iceland’s finest designers
Skeifan 6 / Kringlan / Smáralind / Laugavegi 7 / Hveragerði / www.epal.is
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.
Laugavegur 27, Reykjavík 888-2380
EINSTÖK
There’s nothing like an Einstök beer after a long day of exploring Reykjavíkand 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.
Laugavegur 10, Reykjavík
LOFT HOSTEL
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 20a, Reykjavík 552-2300 www.lebowski.is
PORT 9
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.
Veghúsastígur 9, Reykjavík 897-8212 www.port9.is
Beer enthusiasts look no further! near the top of Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping street, 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, and a nice place to spend an evening.
Laugavegur 86, Reykjavík
VEÐUR
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.
Klapparstígur 33, Reykjavík www.vedurbarinn.is
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.
Bankastræti 7, Reykjavík 553-8140
KIKI - QUEER BAR
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!
Laugavegur 22 www.kiki.is
RÖNTGEN
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.
Hverfisgata 12, Reykjavík www. www.rontgenbar.is
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.
Klapparstígur 27, Reykjavík 581-2020
www.irishman.is
PETERSEN SVÍTAN
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!
Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavík 581-2200
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!
Ingólfsstræti 2a 3rd floor, Reykjavík 563-4000 | www.ktf.is
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.
Bergstaðastræti 1, Reykjavík 551-1588 www.kaffibarinn.is
UPPI BAR
Uppi Bar offers upscale dining, wine and cocktails. The name Uppi refers to its location, upstairs above the renowned Fish Market Restaurant. You can expect the same exquisite attention to detail and delicious food, but in a casual bar setting, perfect for happy hour or a fancy start to a night out.
Aðalstræti 12, Reykjavík 571-8788
SESSION
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.
Bankastræti 14, 2nd floor, Reykjavík
AMERICAN BAR
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.
Austurstræti 8, Reykjavík 571-9999
DEN DANSKE KRO
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 3, Reykjavík 552-0070 www.danski.is
THE ENGLISH PUB
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.
Austurstræti 12, Reykjavík 578-0400 facebook.com/enskibarinn
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.
Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavík 561-1111 | www.steik.is
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.
Nauthólsvegi 106, 101 Reykjavík 599-6660 | www.nautholl.is
DUCK & ROSE
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!
Austurstræti 14 101 Reykjavík 551 1020 |
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 cosy place is also a decent spot for people watching, with its large windows.
Hafnarstræti 15, Reykjavík 551-3340 I www.hornid.is
THE ICELANDIC BAR
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.
Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík 517-6767
scandinavian bistro
reason to stop by is for the selection of — Opið 1 :1 54 — 00:32 — nepO 1 1:45 — 23:00
GRANDI MATHÖLL
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.
Grandagarður 16, Reykjavík 577-6200 | www.grandimatholl.is
THE LAUNDROMAT CAFE
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 9, Reykjavík
TAPAS BARINN
Situated in downtown Reykjavík, the Spanish style bodega Tapas barinn is a place bursting with the delicious smells and flavours of traditional tapas along with the best of Icelandic tapas. Lining the wall are racks of fine wines and sparking glasses.
Vesturgata 3b, Reykjavík 551-2344 | tapas.is
With a new spin on traditional Icelandic
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
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.
Hafnarborg, Strandgötu 34, Hafnarfjörður www.kryddveitingahus.is
Open: M-T 11-23, F-S, 11-01, S 11-23
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
mushy peas and malt vinegar with it! Splendid!
Grandagarður 37-9, Reykjavík 840-4100 | fishandchipsvagninn.is
JÓMFRÚIN
An open-sandwich restaurant in the Danish tradition offering authentic Danish smørrebrød along with a selection of hot dishes. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city centre and seats 80 guests. It is a popular lunch venue, especially with people from the business sector.
courses with Icelandic ingredients in classic recipes that all Icelanders are familiar with. The atmosphere is cosy with a fancy design that highlights fishing and seamanship.
Frakkastígur 8, Reykjavík 571-9800 www.mar-seafood.is
Grazie Trattoria is a casual but elegant Italian eatery conveniently located right off of Hverfisgata, a main street in downtown. Enjoy all of your Italian favourites, including pizza, pasta, seafood, good wine, and more!
Hverfisgata 96, Reykjavík 475-1555 | www.grazietrattoria.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
@grazietrattoria.is
Hverfisgata 96 - 101 Reykjavík
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.
Grandagarður 20, Reykjavík 519-7766 www.laprimavera.is
Fjallkonan is a lively restaurant & pub in the heart of Reykjavík offering a selection of Icelandic dishes made with fresh locally sourced Icelandic ingredients and delicious desserts made with Icelandic candy.
Hafnarstræti 1- 3, 101 Reykjavík 555-0950 www.fjallkona.is
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!
Klapparstígur 30, 101 Reykjavík 519-5350 | www.monkeys.is
BASTARD
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!
Vegamótastígur 4, Reykjavík 558-0800 www.bastardbrewandfood.is
HAFNARTORG GALLERY
Hafnartorg Gallery, located by Reykjavík’s old harbour and across from the modern Harpa concert hall, is one of the latest editions to fine but casual dining downtown. With adjacent shops and art galleries nearby, sample artisanal pizzas, poke bowls, or a classic steak frites. Hafnartorg Gallery also offers a full-feature bar with beer on tap, wine, and a variety of cocktails.
Hafnartorg, Reykjavík www.hafnartorggallery.is
FISH COMPANY
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.
Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavík 552-5300 | www.fiskfelagid.is
TRES LOCOS
Tres Locos is a fun and lively Mexican restaurant located in Hafnarstræti 4, Reykjavík. The decor is colourful and full of curiosities and and the atmosphere vibrant and lively. Tres Locos serve taco, tostadas, fajitas, quesadilla and other Mexican delicacies, made with fresh Icelandic ingredients.
Hafnarstræti 4, 101 Reykjavík www.treslocos.is
BREWDOG
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.
Frakkastígur 8, Reykjavík www.brewdog.com
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.
Opens early, closes at 18:00.
Frakkastígur 16, Reykjavík Fákafen 11, Reykjavík www.braudogco.is
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. 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.
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 centres at Laugavegur 5 and Laugavegur 54.
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 our What’s On tourist information offices at Laugavegur 5 and Laugavegur 54 or contact us at info@whatson.is.
