OCTOBER 2016
IN REYKJAVÍK
REYKJAVIK’S LEADING GUIDE TO INFORMATION, EVENTS, MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES.
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WHAT’S ON
CONTENTS OCTOBER 2016
ON THE COVER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
EXPERIENCE 6-31
WHAT’S ON
38-41
REYKJAVÍK CITY MAP 42-43
MUSEUM WALK
44-45
EVENT CALENDAR
46-61
ART & CULTURE
62-67
PUBS & NIGHTLIFE
68-69
SHOPPING & STYLE
70-73
FOOD & DRINK
74-79
PRACTICAL INFO
80-83
October is my favourite month of the year. I could count several reasons for my love of October; the weather is still nice (enough), the autumn leaves make everything so pretty, the city’s social calendar is back on track after summer break and we can finally eat soups, stews and hot cocoa again. Most of all, however, I love October because my birthday is in October (all gifts and cards will be well received at the What’s On information office at Laugavegur 5). Jokes aside, there’s plenty of interesting activities, events and festivals going on. The month starts off with a bang with RIFF – the Reykjavík international film festival. This two-week festival takes place at Bíó Paradís, the downtown arthouse cinema. While Bíó Paradís usually has an impressive selection of films, the RIFF programme really kicks it up a notch or five. Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace tower is also lit this month, October 9th to be exact, John Lennon’s (and my) birthday. The tower of light is situated in Viðey, an island just off the Reykjavík coastline and lights up the night sky until December 8th, the anniversary of Lennon’s assassination. With stars, Northern Lights and the Imagine Peace tower ruling the sky, prepare for some awesome night sky photography this month! Speaking of the Northern Lights, have you seen them yet? If you haven’t, be sure to check out our Northern Lights guide! The aurora isn’t a reliable attraction; it depends on weather conditions and the latest solar storms (yes, really), so you should prepare!
Visit our tourist information centre at Laugavegur 5. What's On Tourist Info, since 1982.
CONTACT US: WHATSON@WHATSON.IS
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Layout & design: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, sbs@whatson.is Content writers: The What’s On Team Cover photo: Reykjavik Excursions
Map: Kári Gunnarsson
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Managing Editor: Hjörtur Atli Guðmunds. Geirdal, hjortur@whatson.is, Tel.: 847-4153. Editor: Gréta Sigríður Einarsdóttir, greta@whatson.is 141
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Volume 34 – Issue 10 Published by MD Reykjavik ehf. Laugavegur 5, 101 Reykjavik. Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Tel.: 899-2255. E-mail: sm@whatson.is
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WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVIK is published monthly, covering events and happenings in and around Reykjavik. Opinions expressed in WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVIK are those of the individual authors. While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is accurate, prices, times, dates and other information may be subject to change.
GLACIER WALKS - NORTHERN LIGHTS & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
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EXPERIENCE
THE WHAT’S ON
You can find checklists from past months at whatson.is/
OCTOBER CHECKLIST
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There are loads of things to do for entertainment in Reykjavik this month! Here are a few “must-do’s” you can try out. While you're checking things off the list, we encourage you to take photos, and tag them with #whatsonrvk, of course!
Have some hot chocolate Go see a movie – RIFF is in town! Go see the Northern lights! Go swimming! there’s nothing like sitting in a hot tub underneath a starry sky. Dress for the weather, it’s getting colder! Stop by the Reykjavík Museum of Photography to get a look at PORTRAITS by Hasselblad Award Winners, an exciting exhibition featuring the selected works of seven Hasselblad Award winners, with works from 1940-2014.
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EXPERIENCE
#WhatsOnRvk So you‘re in Iceland, enjoying life, seeing the sights and taking in everything our magnificent country has to offer. Why not share it with the world?
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EXPERIENCE
THE REYKJAVIK SIGHT EXPERIENCE Reykjavik 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.
1 | HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA Hallgrímskirkja church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. It’s is the largest church and the sixth tallest architectural structure in Iceland. The church tower offers a fantastic view of the city for the small price of 900ISK for adults or 100ISK for children. 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 flows of Iceland’s landscape. Construction started in 1945 and was finished in 1984.
2 | PERLAN Standing at 25 metres, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings. Up on the fourth level, there is a 360 degree viewing platform where you can get the city's best panoramic views. During the day, the Perlan café is a nice place to get coffee or ice cream. If you come in the evening, the Perlan restaurant has some of the finest cuisine in the city. The restaurant also rotates slowly so you get to see the whole city without even having to turn your head.
3 | TJÖRNIN
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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.
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4 | AUSTURVÖLLUR When the sun is shining and the air is hot, Austurvöllur is the place to be. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants on Vallarstræti and Pósthússtræti, this public square is a wildly popular spot for locals to dine outside, soak up some sunshine or recline in the grass with picnics. In fact, whatever the season, Austurvöllur is the place to be. It’s used for celebrations on holidays, the city’s biggest Christmas tree is located there and due to its close proximity to the Parliament building, Austurvöllur has also a popular gathering place for political protests. At the center of it all stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the renowned figure who led Iceland to independence.
5 | KOLAPORTIÐ Whether you want to sample dried fish and fermented shark, purchase a bag of Icelandic candy or browse through thrifted clothing, Kolaportið, an indoor flea market, open on the weekends between 11am-5pm, is your best bet. The atmosphere is unique and the old industrial building is usually filled with people hunting for books or antiques, grocery shopping at the food court, selling their old garments, buying music and DVD’s or digging through piles of stuff in search of hidden treasures. We recommend bringing cash, or visiting the ATM at one of the entrances, as the majority of stalls don’t accept cards.
The whole 28.000 square meters of Harpa stand at the edge of the Reykjavik 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. It‘s open to everyone, always, and you should definitely visit Harpa, whether it‘s to take in a show, buy souvenirs, go to a concert or have a lovely dinner in one of the fabulous restaurants. Harpa was designed by a Danish firm in co-operation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist, and opened to the public in 2011.
7 | THE OLD HARBOR It’s the first lasting harbour in Reykjavik, although it’s no longer the city’s busiest one. The most visited area is the eastern pier where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals and guided 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 (sushi and other seafood, tapas, burgers, etc.) and cafés. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty and there’s plenty of interesting activities to check out.
EXPERIENCE
6 | HARPA
8 | THE SUN VOYAGER A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to the Reykjavík centre. The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and is an ode to the sun. It serves as reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland.
9 | CITY HALL The Reykjavík City Hall is an impressive, modern building, opened in 1992, that sits right on the northern shore of lake Tjörnin. Not only does it house the offices of the mayor and other city officials, it‘s also open to visitors and offers stunning views of the water, bird life, nature and city surrounds. Inside the City Hall, you‘ll find a room-sized relief map of Iceland that took four men several years to make. There are also exhibition halls that regularly host a steady stream of new and exciting art exhibitions, book fairs, arts and crafts fairs and other events.
10 | LAUGARDALSLAUG Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Iceland’s big thing is swimming pools. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, located in Laugardalur Valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, outdoor children’s pool and paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, steam bath, gym and mini golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day, or a cold one for that matter. Right outside you will find a hot dog stand where you can buy traditional Icelandic hot dogs.
Find these places on the centerfold map.
Check out our map on p. 42 for the locations of these sights.
Sólfarið 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 mount Esjan is every photographer’s dream.
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The concept of the restaurant is "c a s u a l f u n d i n i n g" a n d w e p r e p a r e w h a t w e w o u l d call a simple honest, "feel good", comfort food, where we take on the classics with a modern twist.
S K Ó L AV Ö R Ð U S T Í G U R 4 0 · 1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K T E L . +3 5 4 5 1 7 74 74 · I N F O @ K O L R E S TA U R A N T. I S · KO L R E S TA U R A N T. I S
ICELAND‘S SECRET TO HEALTHY LIVING
Legend has it that the Vikings introduced Skyr to Iceland when they settled in the country some 1.100 years ago. Travel back in time to any farm and Skyr would be on the table – essential nourishment for young and old. Generations past may not have been able to measure the nutritional content in the way we can now, but the life-expectancy of the average Icelander was proof enough that something good was going on. Icelanders have ever since loved the smooth texture of this incredibly healthy dairy product and today it plays a big role in the modern lifestyle
diet. Skyr is high in protein and a virtually fat-free dairy delight. Thick and creamy in consistency, it is also rich in calcium and other nutrients. Skyr can be found at almost every home and workplace. Enjoyed at breakfast, lunchtime, pretty much anytime, it has also become a healthy „fastfood“ for active people on the go. Delicious in smoothies or energy-boosting drinks, it even features on the dessert menus of many top restaurants, which are bringing a contemporary twist to this established favourite.
EXPERIENCE
THE WHAT’S ON SKYR EXPERIENCE
MS SKYR – PLAIN Skyr was originally only available as plain and was made at every farm in Iceland. Nowadays, there is a huge variety of flavours available but many still prefer the plain one.
KEA SKYR WITH VANILLA
MS SKYR.IS WITH BAKED APPLES Skyr producers have been experimenting with new flavours in skyr while still keeping it as nutritious as possible. One of the more recent additions is the baked apple flavour.
MS SKYR.IS WITH BLUEBERRIES This is a long-time favourite of the Skyr.is varieties. Blueberries are among the few summer fruits that grow in Iceland so eating Skyr with fresh blueberries has a long tradition in Iceland. The taste is very rich and full of blueberries.
For more information on skyr, visit skyr.is
Kea skyr comes from the northern part of Iceland and this is one of the most popular flavours available. The taste is full and creamy with zero fat. It’s mild and creamy flavour also makes it popular as a base for desserts.
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AQUARACER STEEL & CERAMIC DIAMONDS Cara Delevingne challenges rules. Being free-minded is her motto. Like TAG Heuer, she defies conventions and never cracks under pressure.
EXPERIENCE WHAT TO DO IN ICELAND
IF YOU ONLY HAVE ONE DAY If you only have one day in Iceland, the first advice I will give you is to change your flight and stay for at least a week more. If that’s not an option, my next suggestion would be to use the time you have to the fullest, since Iceland is a unique destination. IF ICELANDIC GEOLOGY INTERESTS YOU
It’s no coincidence that The Golden Circle is the most popular day tour from Reykjavík. There are three stops on the way that just happen to be three of the most captivating destinations in Iceland, and as an added bonus, the tour doesn’t take up more than half of your day. The stops are Þingvellir, the national park where the Icelandic Parliament congregated since Viking times, Gullfoss, the aweinspiring waterfall which lends its name to the Golden Circle, and Geysir, an erupting hot spring, guaranteed to wow visitors.
Nobody does volcanoes like Iceland, there’s a reason it’s called the land of Ice and Fire. The Reykjavík Erupts! volcano hike takes you to a geothermally active area where the effects of the extreme heat underground are clearly visible on the surface. The colours of the earth are akin to a rainbow and there are bubbling cauldrons of mud everywhere. Lava Tube Caving tour, on the other hand, allows you to visit a cave that was formed during a volcanic eruption. The rock formations alone make this tour worth the trip.
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IF YOU JUST WANT TO SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS
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EXPERIENCE
IF YOU WANT TO SEE A GLACIER Since you’re visiting ICE-land, you might want to check out some icy tours and it doesn’t get any icier than hiking on a glacier. Glacier hikes are relatively easy and the professional gear is provided so it should be accessible for most people. You get to walk on a glacier, along with guides that know everything there is to know about glaciers and Iceland in general. IF YOU’RE IN THE MOOD FOR A LITTLE LUXURY
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Even if you’re only in Iceland for a short time, that doesn’t mean you have to spend all your time on a bus. If a day of luxurious pampering is more appealing, look no further than the Blue Lagoon. The turquoise blue waters make for a divinely soothing and relaxing experience. It doesn’t hurt that you can book all sorts of massages and treatments and get drinks straight to the lagoon. The Lava restaurant at the Blue Lagoon is also first class.
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IF YOU PREFER CITY STREETS TO HIKING TRAILS You don’t have to leave the city to experience Iceland. Not only does Reykjavík offer a variety of great museums, restaurants, cafés, and shops, it also has spectacular views of the mountains surrounding the city, right from the city centre. If you’re staying in the city and want to get the most out of your time, invest in the City Card. It gives you access to all the city’s museums for free, as well as access to the thermal pools of Reykjavík, the Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo in Laugardalur, and allows you to use the Icelandic Bus (Strætó) within the Capital Region. IF YOU READ MOBY DICK AND LIKED IT Marine life abounds in the ocean around Iceland. Of all the creatures that live in these waters, the most spectacular ones have to be the whales. If you’re interested in seeing these immense creatures for yourself, take a whale watching cruise. Even the smallest Icelandic whale you could spot is still the size of a full grown man, and the largest can reach
up to 30 metres in length! 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 for some extra information on these gentle giants.
Whether you are going on tours or staying within city limits, you can be sure of one thing: you won’t have seen enough of what Iceland has to offer. The next time you’re in Iceland (and we’re pretty sure you’ll be back) stop by the What’s On office, or send us an email, and ask the staff to help you plan an unforgettable vacation.
Joe
HAS ARRIVED DOWNTOWN WE ARE NOW OPEN ON LAUGAVEGUR! DROP BY FOR SOME AMAZING JUICES, SANDWICHES AND SHAKES. P.S. WE’RE REALLY GOOD AT MAKING COFFEE TOO!
LAUGAVEGUR | SMÁRALIND | KRINGLAN | WORLD CLASS LAUGAR | KEFLAVIK AIRPORT
EXPERIENCE
THE ICELANDIC
Although beer and ale have been brewed in Iceland for a long time, beer production was limited during the 20th century, as beer was illegal in Iceland until 1989! Icelanders have more than made up for lost time and the growth in beer production in recent years has been amazing. In just a few years, we‘ve seen many great breweries emerge, filled with ambition and ingenuity, and beer is now the most popular alcoholic beverage in Iceland. It’s no wonder, as Icelandic beer is delicious, in no small part thanks to the Icelandic water; renowned for its purity and quality.
VÍKING CLASSIC Víking Classic is a Vienna style beer with golden amber colour and taste of roasted malt. It has a good body and medium bitterness with balancing sweetness and a hint of caramel. The name might seem a bit presumptuous as this classic has only been in production for a few years, but it’s in fact named after the Danish “Classic” style of beer. Víking Classic is available in draught, bottles and cans and is part of the Víking beer family which is the most popular beer brand in Iceland.
EINSTÖK WHITE ALE A clean and crisp start with a smooth mouth feel thanks to the oats. Citrus and spice round out a refreshing finish. Einstök beer is brewed up north, just 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle. You wouldn’t know it when you taste this summery, citrusy white ale. It has the complex flavours of a classic witbier, all brewed with pure Icelandic water for a cool smoothness that is deliciously refreshing. Don’t forget to ask for a slice of orange!
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KALDI
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Kaldi is a very mild and comfortable pilsner, dry, fresh, slightly bitter, with notes of roasted barley and hops, and has 5% ABV. You might detect a hint of sweetness as well. The brewery on Árskógssandur, makers of Kaldi beer, was the first microbrewery that opened in Iceland, back in 2006. The regular Kaldi is a pure pilsner, with all the ingredients, except the Icelandic water, coming from the Czech Republic. Even their brew-master is Czech! Following its success, the brewery opened Kaldi bar in the centre of Reykjavík, where all the varieties of Kaldi beer are available. Kaldi bar is, of course, the best place to get Kaldi, but it’s available in other bars as well, and in bottles at the liquor stores.
KALDI DARK A dark pilsner, it‘s similar to the regular Kaldi, but the main difference is the use of burnt malt, which provides the beautiful, distinctive dark colour and deepens the flavour. Most Icelanders are used to drinking light lagers and are even a bit wary of dark beers, at least until they taste Kaldi Dark. As mentioned – the Kaldi beers are brewed by Czech traditions, dated from 1842. Kaldi Dark is brewed using 3 different types of Czech hops. Kaldi Dark is unpasteurized with no added sugar or preservatives. You can get Kaldi Dark in all liquor stores as well as some bars, but the best place to get it is of course the Kaldi bar in the centre of Reykjavík.
These are our favourites, don’t leave Reykjavík without stopping by a pub or a bar and tasting at least one (or all) of them!
BRÍÓ Brío uses German hops, giving the beer a very distinctive taste and a sweet aroma. Along with the hops, it uses Pilsen malt and under-fermented yeast. Bríó is the first beer produced by Borg Brugghús, a brewery that now produces several popular beers all year round along with seasonal beers for summer, Christmas and Easter. Bríó is a pilsner, a style of beer named after the city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic. This style of brewing first emerged in the middle of the 19th century and became so popular that the majority of beer drunk today is a relative of the original pilsner. Brío was originally brewed as the house beer for Ölstofan but due to its popularity, it’s now available in liquor stores as well as most bars in town.
EXPERIENCE
BEER EXPERIENCE
ÚLFUR The aroma is of fresh citrus fruits, especially grapefruit, which can also be found in the flavour, along with a strong bitterness that makes you crave another sip. Úlfur was the first Icelandic IPA (India Pale Ale) on the market. It’s in the same calibre as the best produced on the West Coast of the Unites States and surprised many Icelanders with its distinct flavour and aroma. Only American hops are used in the beer and they are added when boiled and after fermentation; a so called “dry hopping” technique. Icelanders took to the beer immediately and it helped clear the way for smaller breweries to try new things.
VÍKING STOUT This is one of the first stouts made in Iceland. Only brewed from the finest ingredients, Víking stout is unfiltered and has a distinctly smoky aftertaste. It’s recently had its look revamped along with the other Víking craft beers. The labels now carry graphic designs that interpret events and traditions from the Viking age. The pitch black stout’s label fittingly evokes images of the ravens of Flóki, the Viking traveller who named Iceland.
PILS ORGANIC Víking Pils Organic has a distinctive floral hoppiness, medium bitterness and a nice balance. Pils Organic took the Bavarian production tradition head on and emerged unquestionably victorious. A member of the same Viking inspired line of beers as the Víking Stout, Pils Organic is decorated with a pattern based on the snake’s heads that used to adorn the ships of the Vikings. Contrary to popular belief, these weren’t meant to intimidate opponents in battles on sea, but rather to frighten sea monsters.
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Viking stout is pitch black, reminiscent of cocoa and coffee with a smoothly roasted aftertaste.
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EXPERIENCE Find more articles like this at whatson.is/ 22
>> Iceland Explained!
Icelanders tend to think that the world revolves around their tiny island, north of almost everything, and get perplexed when people from larger, more heavily populated countries seem to have little to no knowledge of what goes on here. (What do you mean, you’ve never heard of a lopapeysa? How dare you insult the majestic Icelandic horse by calling it a pony!) Luckily, I’m here to help and explain to you the whats, whys and hows of Icelandic culture.
ICELAND EXPLAINED
ICELANDIC INDEPENDENCE
>> What happened there? As you might know, Iceland started out as an independent country in the 9th century. The stories even imply that people were settling in Iceland to escape from the oppressive kings that were uniting the Scandinavian countries under their leadership. Until the 13th century, all decisions were made by the Alþingi, a parliamentary institution where powerful men had a vote, but all independent men could attend. This period has been highly romanticised since we gave up our independence in 1262 and didn’t get it back until the middle of the 20th century. >> Why did you renounce your independence in the first place? It seemed like a good idea at the time. The independent community of the time sounds almost utopian, until you realise that they had no way to enforce the laws or the sentences they issued except the revenge of the victim. If he or she was for some reason (like being dead, or a woman, for example) unable to seek revenge for themselves, the victim’s family was also obligated to seek revenge lest they forsake all honour. This worked for a while but this type of society created the conditions for families and clans to rise to power, ultimately resulting in a mafia-wars type of situation. Come the 13th century, the clans had started squabbling among themselves and there was nobody to keep them in line because they didn’t have a king. The rest of the nation solved this little problem by just getting themselves one, namely the Norwegian one.
>> How did you get it back? That took us a while. We submitted to the Norwegian king in 1262 but due to a complicated system of royal marriages and a brief union of all the Scandinavian countries, Iceland ended up as a colony of Denmark. During the 19th century, Iceland put up the most peaceful, wordy battle for independence you can imagine, mostly made up of emotional poetry romanticising the past. The biggest moment of the Icelandic fight for freedom happened during a meeting in 1851, when Jón Sigurðson, the biggest hero of Icelandic independence, stood up during a meeting and protested. We finally got our chance in 1944. It was during the height of World War II and Denmark was occupied by Germany and Iceland by Britain. Iceland sent the king of Denmark a politely worded letter declaring independence. The reaction of the Danish ruler? According to stories, his feelings were a little hurt.
Meet some of Iceland’s finest designers Epal Harpa / Epal Skeifan 6 / Epal Design Kringlan / 568 7733
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Fish • Lamb • Whale • Icelandic cuisine with a twist Icelandic music and nightlife Mix with the locals . .and all the Icelandic beers in one awsome place!
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The 1783-4 eruption of Laki was history’s biggest volcanic eruption. When it erupted, the ash darkened the sky over all of Europe for years. The ash’s toxicity caused widespread crop failures and the resulting famine all over Europe was almost certainly one of the causes of the French revolution in 1789, ultimately resulting in the first modern democracy as we know it.
NOT JUST ONE, BUT TWO OF THE BIGGEST ERUPTIONS IN THE RECORDED HISTORY OF THE WORLD, OCCURRED IN ICELAND! Not only was Laki the biggest eruption in recorded history, measured by volume of lava, but Iceland was also the site of the second biggest emission in recorded history, the 2014 eruption of Bárðarbunga. In just 6 months, Bárðarbunga produced enough lava to cover the island of Manhattan – 85km2. It still isn‘t close to matching Laki. That eruption produced 370 km2 of lava, the size of the Gaza strip, in only 50 days!
All photos provided by the Volcano House
For more information on Icelandic volcanoes, check out www.volcanohouse.is
AN ICELANDIC VOLCANO IS THE REASON FOR DEMOCRACY AS WE KNOW IT
EXPERIENCE
5 FACTS YOU (PROBABLY) DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT ICELANDIC VOLCANOES
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EXPERIENCE For more information on Icelandic volcanoes, check out www.volcanohouse.is 26
1/3 OF ALL THE EARTH’S FRESH LAVA ORIGINATED IN ICELAND! When you’re discussing volcanoes, all concepts that have something to do with time get a bit skewed. For instance, fresh lava means lava emissions on earth since the year 1500. The reason for this impressive amount of liquid rock spewing to the surface is because not only does Iceland sit on a crack between two tectonic plates, it’s also on top of a geologic hotspot. Even so, for such a small island, that’s a pretty impressive amount of lava.
ICELAND HAS A VOLCANIC ERUPTION EVERY 4-5 YEARS! This isn’t surprising considering the island has somewhere around 150-200 volcanoes, split into different volcanic systems. About 30 different systems are still considered “active” in Iceland, and 13 of them have erupted since the Viking Settlement in 874. Not all the eruptions are on the
WANT TO GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THE VOLCANOES OF ICELAND? For more information on volcanoes and geothermal activity in Iceland, go visit the Volcano House by the old harbour. Its attractions include a mineral exhibition and an hour-long documentary on volcanoes, which is shown every hour, on the hour. As an added bonus, there’s also a What’s On desk over there, in case you need any information.
same scale as the Eyjafjallajökull eruption though; some are small enough to be considered tourist attractions and some happen underneath glaciers and never even see the light of day.
ICELAND HAS THE ONLY ISLAND SCIENTISTS HAVE BEEN ABLE TO OBSERVE AND DOCUMENT FROM THE MOMENT OF ITS CREATION: SURTSEY Surtsey was formed by a volcanic eruption at the bottom of the ocean and emerged from the water on November 14, 1963. It was immediately granted protection by law and no one was allowed to set foot on the island. To this day only scientists are allowed to go there, and even they have to get special permission. This means that we have been able to monitor how life settles on a brand-new land from the beginning, and the information gained has been invaluable to scientists.
THE FINEST BEER & WHISKY SELECTION IN DOWNTOWN REYKJAVÍK
Live Music Every Night | Live Sports on 5 Big Screens
EXPERIENCE Need more rainy day acitvities? Visit our information center on Laugavegur 5. 28
THINGS TO DO ON A RAINY DAY If it’s raining outside, and you’re not sure what you should do with yourself, here’s a short list of some activities and places you could visit on a rainy day in our lovely country. Enjoy! MUSEUMS Reykjavík is a veritable feast of cultural treats. Whether it’s art, history or science you’re after, the museums in this small Nordic city offer an array of interesting and diverse exhibitions year round, guaranteed to pique your interest. When it starts to drizzle, try visiting the Volcano House or Reykjavík Art Museum. It has three locations, Hafnarhúsið, Kjarvalsstaðir and Ásmundarsafn and purchasing admission to any one of these automatically grants you access to the other two. COFFEEHOUSE It’s hard to explain why Icelanders have such a deep love for coffee, considering it doesn’t grow anywhere near this Nordic island. Maybe it has something to do with those long dark winter mornings, but whatever the reason, the sheer quantity of cafés in downtown Reykjavík is proof positive of Icelanders’ affection for the black stuff. The cafés range from small holes-inthe- wall with take-away coffee to places with plush couches on which you could stay sitting comfortably for several hours.
DRIVE IN THE COUNTRY SIDE The Icelandic landscape is amazing whatever the weather, but hiking in the rain is a recipe for a cold toes and grumpy moods. Zooming past the dramatic landscapes of the Icelandic countryside from the comfort and warmth of a bus or a car, however, is extremely enjoyable. Be sure to blast some great Icelandic music on your drive, it can only enhance the experience. SWIMMING You may think that it sounds strange to go for a swim in the rain, but swimming in Iceland is particularly enjoyable in bad weather. Thanks to the geothermal heat, you’ll be nice and toasty in the hot tubs, chatting with the locals, while the rain offers a welcome, cooling contrast. MOVIE AT BÍÓ PARADÍS Bíó Paradís keeps up an ambitious schedule of internationally acclaimed movies from all over the world. It hosts several film festivals and airs Icelandic movies with English subtitles all year round. It’s also the only cinema in downtown Reykjavík and a great place to keep dry and out of the waterworld outside. Not only is it a great place to watch great movies, it also has a place to sit down, get some coffee or a beer, before or after the movie.
Pre-booking is required. Book online at bluelagoon.com
PRE-BOOKING IS REQUIRED Book online at bluelagoon.com
WELCOME! Icelandic and international cooking, where cooking is the name of the game!
Experts' choice + Best rated Trip Expert Certificate of Excellence Trip advisor 2015, 2013 & 2012 Top 10 world’s revolving restaurants English CNTV 12 places to see before you die Modern Times World’s top revolving restaurants Travel+Leisure 5 best: Tables at the top Independent Online Pure Magic!! Mellosusan, Trip Advisor Definitely worth it! Amos F, Trip Advisor If you want to feel like royalty for a night, hit Perlan Sharlene Chiu
The Pearl Restaurant · Tel. (+354) 562 0200 · www.perlan.is · perlan@perlan.is
EXPERIENCE
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EXPERIENCE
© LEIFI, ICELAND SIGHTSEEING
THE
For more information, check out www.whatson.is/northern-lights/
NORTHERN LIGHTS
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ARE HERE!
The new season may be bringing the end of the bright summer nights, but never fear, The Northern Lights are here! The Aurora have been absent all summer long, as their faint light is no match for the midnight sun, but as the autumn equinox draws nearer, it’s now getting dark enough in the evenings that the Northern Lights are able to strut their stuff.
Seeing the lights is a magical experience and we recommend seeking them out while you’re in Iceland. However, there are a few things every Northern Lights hunter should keep in mind. The Northern Lights aren’t a reliable attraction and seeing them can be a matter of being in the right spot at the right time. It’s not all down to luck, however, as there are a few things you can do to maximise your chances of seeing the ethereal lights.
Different ways to see the Northern Lights:
GOING BY COACH:
GOING BY BOAT:
Cheap and effective – A Northern Lights tour by bus is a good way to see the lights if you’re not too concerned about 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 gets the job done!
A great experience regardless of lights – Going by boat and seeing the city from the sea at night, is in itself a great experience. The boat ride is a very good choice for those that want to ensure they get something out of their tour – even if no lights are found.
The city lights block the Northern Lights!
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| MAKE SURE IT’S DARK
Daylight and Northern Lights don’t go hand in hand!
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| MAKE SURE THE SKY IS CLEAR
The Northern Lights appear way above the clouds!
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| GIVE IT TIME AND BE PATIENT!
EXPERIENCE
TO THE NOP 8 TIPS FOR RTHERN LIGHTS! 1 | GET OUT OF TOWN
The Northern Lights don’t come out by order – be patient and you might get lucky!
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| SIGHTINGS CAN NEVER BE GUARANTEED
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| WEAR SOMETHING WARM
It can get seriously cold, especially when the sky is clear and you’re waiting for a long time.
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| KNOW YOUR CAMERA!
Taking photos with a flash won’t work. Ever. A tripod and long exposure are your friends!
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| ENJOY IT!
Lie down on the ground. Look up. Enjoy!
GOING BY SUPER-JEEP:
For more information, check out www.whatson.is or stop by the What’s On information office
Exclusive and thrilling – Going in a specially modified super-jeep on a hunt for the lights is a thrilling experience that’s fun and exciting. Sights can of course never be guaranteed, but the off-road action of the super jeep make for a great adventure and the lights are just an added bonus.
© REYKJAVIK EXCURSION
For more information, check out www.whatson.is/northern-lights/
So we’d recommend a tour that includes some great activity as well as Northern Lights hunt – so you won’t feel disappointed!
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EXPERIENCE
NORTHERN LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY DOs AND DON'Ts DO have a relatively good camera with you that allows for easy and quick change of settings.
For more information, check out www.whatson.is/northern-lights/
DON’T try to use the camera on your phone. It won’t work.
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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 a little and it’s enough to make your photos blurry. DO keep your shutter speed anywhere between 5 seconds to 30 seconds, although the optimal would be between 5-20 (30 is for very faint lights, basically). DON’T go by boat! If you’re intent on getting photos, at least. The movement of the boat makes it impossible. 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 and Tryggvagata 11..
A RARE, ONCE-INA-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY Around, on and deep within the awesome Langjökull ice gap glacier. Into the Glacier offers various tours to the World's largest ice tunnel. The ice tunnel and caves are located high on Iceland’s second largest glacier, Langjökull. Daily departures from Klaki base camp, Húsafell center and from Reykjavik. You can choose from various tours and book online at www.intotheglacier.is Tel: +354 578-2550
EXPERIENCE
HOW TO READ THE NORTHERN LIGHTS FORECAST IN ICELAND The Northern Light 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 guide should make things a little bit easier.
THE COLORS
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WHITE means NO CLOUDS, while DARK GREEN means VERY CLOUDY. The different shades of green then mean more, or less, cloudy.
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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 looks low, it’s actually very rare for the number to be higher than five. Also, take this 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.
GOING ON A TOUR? There are many tours taking you out of 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 the major operators can be relied on 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.
WHAT’S ON
HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA'S 30TH ANNIVERSARY
Hallgrímskirkja, the beautiful church on top of the hill in the city centre, will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of its inauguration this October. The church, and especially the Hallgrímskirkja Friends of the Arts Society, has for a long time supported art and music and made it a part of their daily programme, so it’s only fitting that the celebrations include art exhibitions and concerts, among other events. Artist Erla S. Haraldsdóttir’s exhibition, Genesis, consists of seven paintings made for the church narthex. The story of creation is a recurring theme in ecclesiastical art history and Erla makes the tradition her own with the daring colours, thick paint and rich allusions that characterize her work. She amongst other refers to a collection of medieval, Icelandic drawings. The showstopping anniversary concerts, with performances by the Hallgrímskirkja Motet Choir and the Hallgrímskirkja International Baroque Orchestra, are not to be missed. On the programme are festive pieces by J.S Bach and Charpentier that will without a doubt sound magnificent in the beautiful Hallgrímskirkja church. The conductor is Hörður Áskelsson, music director of Hallgrímskirkja.
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Last but not least, at 2 pm on October 30, rev. Bjarni Þór Bjarnason will conduct an Englishlanguage service in the church with performances from members of the Motet Choir and Björn Steinar Sólbergsson playing the magnificent Klais Organ.
DID YOU KNOW? »» They started building the church in 1945 and it was consecrated in 1986, the year of Reykjavík‘s 200th anniversary. »» Hallgrímskirkja is one of the best known landmarks of Reykjavík, but still functions as a parish church for the city centre. »» It‘s named after Hallgrímur Pétursson, a 17th century priest in Iceland, who is today best known for his poetry. His magnum opus, the Passion Hymns, are read in the church every Easter, which takes about 5 hours. »» The church‘s Klais organ, with its 5275 pipes is the biggest instrument in Iceland.
THE HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA FRIENDS OF THE ARTS SOCIETY 34TH SEASON
HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA 1986-2016 FESTIVE CONCERT CELEBRATING THE 30 YEARS INAUGURATION OF HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA
SATURDAY OCTOBER 29TH AT 7 PM - SUNDAY OCTOBER 30TH AT 5 PM
CHARPENTIER: FANFARE J.S BACH: MASS NO. 1 IN F-MAJOR CHARPENTIER: TE DEUM PERFORMERS:
The Hallgrímskirkja Motet Choir The Hallgrímskirkja International Baroque Orchestra Sigríður Ósk Kristjánsdóttir mezzosoprano Oddur A. Jónsson bass Auður Guðjohnsen alto Thelma Hrönn Sigurdórsdóttir soprano Guðmundur Vignir Karlsson tenor Conductor: Hörður Áskelsson, Music Director Of Hallgrímskirkja
TICKET SALE: HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA TEL. 510 1000 WWW.MIDI.IS - ADMISSION ISK 5.900
WARM WELCOME
UNNUR ICELAND 69.990 ISK
D R E SS CO D E I C E L A N D www.cintamani.is | Bankastræti 7 | Aðalstræti 10 | Austurhraun 3 | Smáralind | Kringlan | Akureyri
HALLDÓR LAXNESS >> What did he do? He’s the best-known Icelandic writer of the 20th century, the author of such books as Independent People, Iceland’s Bell and World Light. He is best known for his social realism novels and was controversial in Iceland when he was a young author, not only because of his incendiary writings and his refusal to follow normal rules of spelling but also because of his left-leaning politics.
>> Why is he important? According to the Nobel prize committee of 1955, “his vivid epic power renewed the great narrative art of Iceland”. Halldór is the only Icelander in history to receive the Nobel prize (although Gunnar Gunnarsson reportedly also came close). Awards aside, his work has influenced Icelandic culture in a fundamental way and many of his characters are household names in Iceland.
WHAT’S ON
ICELAND EXPLAINED
>> How can I read his work? Most of his novels are available in translations. His most famous novel is Independent people, the saga of a woefully proud Icelandic farmer and his family, although for beginners, I recommend The Fish Can Sing, a coming-of-age story set in early 20th century Reykjavík.
Find more info about Iceland on www.whatson.is 41
WHAT’S ON LOCATIONS
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Check out the article The Reykjavik Sight Experience on pages 11-12 for more information about the places numbered here.
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REYKJAVIK CITY MAP
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WHAT’S ON
THE REYKJAVÍK MUSEUM WALK Reykjavík’s history reaches back for more than a thousand years and the city is rich with culture. This heritage can be experienced in the museums scattered throughout the city. To make life easier for you, here is a proposed Museum Walk that covers the best ones in downtown Reykjavik, all within a walking distance. 1
VOLCANO HOUSE
The museum gives visitors an idea of the life in Iceland, where volcanoes and earthquakes are a constant threat. Icelandic n at u re i s i n a st ate o f constant flux, earthquakes occur daily somewhere in Iceland, and volcanic eruptions are always a possibility. Volcano House lets you experience the world of Icelanders by coming as close as possible to experiencing an eruption or earthquake for yourself. They also have a Volcano Show, which consists of two back-to-back documentaries on historical volcanic eruptions.
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REYKJAVÍK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY
The museum’s main objective is to present both historical and contemporary photography in an artistic, social and cultural context, as well as nurture public and scholarly interest in photography and its culture. The collection’s themes are diverse, you can find family photographs, photos from portrait studios, industrial- and advertising photographs, press photography, landscape photographs and more.
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THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND
The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at The National Museum of Iceland. The museum was established on the 24th of February in 1863 and it’s aim is to increase and relay knowledge of Icelandic cultural heritage from the country’s settlement until now. In the museum you will find a permanent exhibition of objects that provide insight into Icelandic history and culture as well as temporary exhibitions highlighting specific eras or aspects of the Icelandic cultural heritage.
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THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND
The principal art museum of Iceland, established in 1884. Its art collection consists mainly of 19th and 20th century art works. In its possession are many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. The National Gallery’s main role is to collect, preserve, research and exhibit Icelandic art and offer education about it. There is also a considerable emphasis laid on showing Icelandic art in context with international art.
REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM
Hafnarhús serves as the m u s e u m ’s i n s t i t u t e o f contemporary art, where new developments in art are explored through d i ve r s e ex h i b i t i o n s o f Icelandic and international artists. An exhibition of paintings by well-known pop artist Erró is a permanent feature. Don’t forget to stop by the Hafnarhús shop for postcards, art posters and books published by the museum.
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THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION
Archaeological remains were excavated in Aðalstræti in 2001, which turned out to be the oldest relics of human habitation in Reykjavík.The relics are now preserved at their original location and are the focal point of the Settlement Exhibition. The construction of Viking Age buildings is explained using multimedia technology and computer technology is used to give an impression of what life was like in the hall. This one is open late, until 8 pm.
©2013 GOOGLE
The Wonders of the Volcanoes Volcano House features two documentaries that focus on the most famous eruptions of Iceland, including Vestmannaeyjar in 1973 and Eyjafjallajökull in 2010, as well as talking about the causes and effects of Icelandic volcanology in general. The Volcano House includes a FREE “hands on” geology exhibition featuring many different mineral samples, such as lava from the 2014 eruption of Bárðabunga and ash from the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. Reviews from tripadvisor “Must-go when touring the museums of Reykjavik”
- Nikeflies, Connecticut, November 22, 2015
“A must stop for geology buffs!” - sfrarymt, Montana, October 3, 2015
“Volcano eruptions are a way of life for Iceland”
- FastEd1972, Texas, November 21, 2015
“Highlight of our time in Reykjavik!” - alexa011, Wisconsin, October 2, 2015
VOLCANO HOUSE
Volcano Cinema and Geological Exhibition in Downtown Reykjavik, next to the Old Harbour. Open Every Day from 10:00-21:00 / Show time every hour, on the hour. Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík | (+354) 555 1900 | www.volcanohouse.is
EVENT CALENDAR
NOTABLE FESTIVITIES & RECURRING EVENTS
Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/ec
EVENTS FROM WHATSON.IS/EC
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RIFF - REYKJAVÍK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL @ BÍÓ PARADÍS Sep 29th - Oct 10th FOUNDERS TAP TAKEOVER @ MIKKELLER & FRIENDS Oct 5th ÚLFUR ÚLFUR @ HARPA Oct 5th DISNEY'S FANTASIA WITH THE ICELANDIC SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA @ HARPAI Oct 6th ÓLÖF ARNALDS @ MENGI Oct 6th
LIP SYNC COMPETITION! @ GAUKURINN Oct 19th SAGE FRANCIS @ HÚRRA Oct 20th THE DISASTER ARTIST A NIGHT INSIDE THE ROOM @ BÍÓ PARADÍS Oct 21st THE CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY #2 @ HARPA Oct 23rd ICELANDIC OPERA – ÉVGENÍ ONEGIN @ HARPA Oct 22nd - Oct 29th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT @ HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA Oct 30th
ILLUMINATION OF THE IMAGINE PEACE TOWER @ VIÐEY ISLAND Oct 9th
JOSS STONE @ HARPA Oct 30th
ICELAND SYMPHONY OPEN REHERSAL @ HARPA Oct 13
ICELANDIC SAGAS: THE GREATEST HITS @ MENGI Oct 6th
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND EVEN MORE EVENTS, VISIT US ONLINE AT WHATSON.IS/EC SEND US YOUR EVENTS AT WHATSON.IS/EC/ADD OR EVENTS@WHATSON.IS
THE STEAK HOUSE
Steikhúsið simply means „The Steak House” and that underlines our goal, to focus solely on steaks. The Steak house is in the middle of Reykjavík, opposite the old harbor which has recently formed into a lively neighborhood of restaurants, cafes and artisan stores and work shops. When you wisit us, remember to try our “28 days” tendered meat. The heart of the place is a coal oven from Mibrasa, Spain. It is only a blacksmith and metal works in years gone by. THE KITCHEN IS OPEN FROM 17:00 TILL LATE — VISIT WWW.STEAK.IS
Booking: +354 561 1111 & steik@steik.is
H Ö N N U N: H G M
EVENT CALENDAR Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/ec 48
THE ICELANDIC OPERA SHINES ON Iceland is a tiny country with an even tinier population. Despite this, we regularly manage to pull off spectacular ventures you wouldn’t think possible for such a small crowd. If you’re looking for proof, look no further than the Icelandic Opera.
They’re bringing out the big guns as Eugene himself is played by Moldovan baritone Andrey Zhilikhovsky, formerly of the Bolshoi theatre Opera Company among others. The show will also featurere some of Iceland’s finest singers such as Þóra Einarsdóttir as Tatyana and Elmar Gilbertsson as Lensky.
Founded in the late seventies, the Icelandic opera has put on more than 80 operas and in 2011, they Tickets are available online! If you can't make it to the EW PROD U C TweI O N officially moved into the Harpa concertN hall. This year, Opera, recommend Kúnstpása lunchtime recital they’re outdoing themselves once again, by staging series at Harpa. Not only will you get a sneak peek Eugene Onegin, Tchaikovsky’s epic opera, based on at some of the opera’s finest talents but it’s also free Pushkin’s beloved verse novel. of charge!
RIFF IS IN TOWN! The Reykjavík International Film Festival is taking place for the 13th time this year and it just keeps getting better with age. For eleven days every autumn, Icelanders flock to the cinema to witness what the best and the brightest cinematographers in the world have been working on. RIFF focuses on young and progressive filmmakers. The main competitive category, New Visions, is dedicated to filmmakers’ first or second movies and the best of the bunch is awarded the coveted Golden Puffin.
short films, one-minute films and children’s films along with Q&As with directors, talks, panels and masterclasses. The festival’s honorary guests include Darren Aronofsky and Chloë Sevigny to name a few. The bottom line is: you should be excited for RIFF 2016. For more information, check out www.riff.is.
ing ng lo d an ve lo p ee d t ou ab a er An op
Along with showing the movies, the festival hosts a number of film-related events, both educational and entertaining. There are concerts in hot tubs, movie screenings in swimming pools, events dedicated to
conceived in the memory of her late husband, John MUSIC DIRECTOR BENJAMIN LEVY Lennon. The tower is lit from the 9th of October, the day of Lennon’s birth to December 8, the date of his STAGE DIRECTOR ANTHONY PILAVACHI assassination.
tower6itself is not 12 made OCT 22 · OCT 29 · The NOV · NOV
#islenskaoperan
IMAGINE PEACE WITH YOKO ONO The small island of Viðey, just off the Reykjavík coastline, is home to Yoko Ono’s work of art, the Imagine Peace Tower. As the name suggests, it was
of glass, metal, or concrete, but simply bright light. It shines from a wishing well on the island, with the words “imagine www.opera.is peace” inscribed on it in 24 different languages. Wishes for the well are received through twitter, email or postcards. The tower itself is quite a striking figure in the Reykjavík night sky. It’s appearance changes depending on the weather, as the light reflects differently off of rain, snow and clouds. One thing’s for sure, when the Northern Lights are out as well, you’re going to get some amazing photographs of the Reykjavík night sky.
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Sundays are live jazz nights at Bryggjan Brugghús,
Bryggjan is an Iceland’s first Microbrewery &, Bistro Bar situated on Reykjavik harbour, that
You can expect some jazz standards, warm spirits and very good beer! ENTRANCE IS FREE
emphasizes fresh ingredients and various styles of high-quality beer, pumped directly from the brewery itself. Bryggjan can accommodate up to 280 guests and is open from 11.00 to 01.00, every day of the week. k Fis
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REYKJAVÍK HARBOUR
B R Y G G J A N B R U G G H Ú S * G R A N D A G A R Ð I 8 1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K * 0 0 3 5 4 4 5 6 4 0 4 0 * W W W. B R Y G G J A N B R U G G H U S . I S
WONDERS OF VOLCANOES The Volcano House includes a FREE “hands on” geology exhibition featuring many different mineral samples, such as lava from the 2014 eruption of Bárðabunga and ash from the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. A documentary in English is screened every hour, on the hour, from 10am to 9pm. It focuses on some of the most famous eruptions of Iceland, as well as talking about the causes and effects of Icelandic volcanology in general. The show is also available in different languages by prearrangement
WONDERS OF VOLCANOES
»» The Volcano House is fun and educational for people of all ages, and kids are especially welcome. (Free for 0-12) »» The Volcano House is a great stop on your Museum Day. After standing and reading for hours, it’s nice to sit down and watch a movie. »» Volcano House is a great late-night activity (last show at 21:00), a good replacement if your tour is cancelled, or if the weather is bad (it’s always nice and warm inside). Drop by any time!
ASSEMBLAGE
MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART
SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM
KEEPERS
ASSEMBLAGE Sigurjón Ólafsson is known as a traditional sculptor, modeller of clay and plaster pieces and a welder of iron structures. In addition a large proportion of his later sculptures out of wood can be classified as assemblages, consisting as they do of assorted wooden parts, found or reworked, constructed around a given spatial core. This show features a selection of these later assemblages, chosen by the artist's widow, Birgitta Spur.
Museum collections are collections made up by a number of collected objects and sources that have some meaning to the museum But how are the objects collected? What reasons lie behind certain objects being collected and where do the boundaries lie when collecting objects for a collection? The exhibition KEEPERS focuses on the museums’s collection. It will display the diversity that defines the collection. The title refers both to the objects themselves, the ones worth keeping, as well as the people who preserved
KEEPERS
them, kept them and eventually so generously gave them to the museum for safekeeping.
HAFNARBORG EXPERIMENT – CLAY AND MORE A conversation between visual culture and clay, in which clay enjoys many different expressions with references to traditions of industry, the arts, applied arts and design. The participants come from various fields within the visual arts and the medium of clay is the common thread through their works. Some of the works in the exhibition are complete – others demonstrate methodical experimentation or working aproaches.
Find more events at whatson.is
For more information see www.volcanohouse.is.
EVENT CALENDAR
VOLCANO HOUSE
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EVENT CALENDAR
REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN DISRUPTION Until October 16. In Disruption, Elín Hansdóttir (b. 1980) takes on Ásmundur Sveinsson's (1893-1982) artworks, searching for new viewpoints. Elín and Ásmundur work with perspective in different ways, he uses his material to capture the form, while she redefines the space. The contrast between Elín's recent work and Ásmundur's heritage opens up a new world for the viewer. Their generations are wildly incompatible, which creates interesting tension, although they also have some powerful attributes in common.
REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM – HAFNARHÚS
Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/museums
RICHARD MOSSE: THE ENCLAVE
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KJARVAL
The six-channel video installation, shot in eastern Congo, is an immersive 40-minute of ghostly psychedelic magenta landscape blighted by human tragedy in Congo. In addition, a selection of large format photographs from The Enclave will also be on view.
D27 INGIBJÖRG SIGURJÓNSDÓTTIR: THIS IS OUR FIRST AND LAST WORK In her work, Ingibjörg Sigurjónsdóttir molds the poetic and the abstract into sculptures in her search for truth and beauty.
YOKO ONO: ONE MORE STORY.. From October 8th. The exhibition ‘One More Story…’ aims to reveal the basic elements that define Yoko Ono’s extensive and diverse artistic career – a voyage through the notion of art itself, with a strong social and political engagement. On one hand there are the ‘Instruction’ pieces, which ask questions about
DISRUPTION
the conceptual principles behind the work of art, highlighting its ephemerality while de-sanctifying the object, as well as enlisting the participation of spectators in its material realisation. On the other hand there are the narratives expressing Ono’s poetic and critical vision.
REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM – KJARVALSSTAÐIR HILDUR BJARNADÓTTIR: ECOSYSTEM OF COLORS The works in this exhibition explore the desire to find one’s place in the world, a place of one’s own. Three years ago, Hildur acquired a piece of land in the south of Iceland. She had no previous connections to this place but has since then been forming roots and planning a future on this land. The exhibition Ecosystem of Colors has this piece of land as its point of departure. For
YOKO ONO
Hildur, the land functions as a platform to contemplate issues of belonging and ecological disruption. Through this land she positions herself in time and space, personally, politically and artistically. The plants on the land act as recording devices of the place they grow in and the ecological and social system they belong to, collecting information through the soil and the air, as well as their roots, petals, flowers and leaves. This information is passed on in the colors Hildur extracts from the plants and which she has used to make the works.
KJARVAL – FROM COLLECTION Kjarvalsstaðir is a space where the art of Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval, in whose honour it is named, has been presented in diverse ways since it opened in 1973. In that time extensive research has been carried out on his art and his important place in Icelandic art history.
rmal Poo Reykjaviks' The ls
A source of health Therm al swi m m ing pools
Hot t ubs and jacuzz i
Saunas, steambat hs and showers
Se ve n loc at i on s ope n ea rly un t i l lat e
Thermal pools a and nd b baths in Reykjavi Reykjavik k ar are re a source of hea health, alth, 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)
Tel: +354 411 5000 www.spacity.is
FRIGHTENING NATURE In the magnificent works depicting people and animals fleeing from natural catastrophe, one can sense the artist's inner struggle bringing us closer to his life and work, joy and suffering which goes together with the process of creating as new roads are travelled. The story of a poor farmer's son, who becomes one of the nation's most respected painters, resembles a fairy tale. The varied treatment of the material shows the artist's continuous search for a suitable way of expressing the different subjects from local landscapes to the interpretation of the saga heritage, Icelandic folklore and fairy tales as natural disaster.
FRIGHTENING NATURE
THE CINEMA There’s a cosy little movie theatre on the Old Harbour waterfront in the Reykjavik Centre that’s simply called The Cinema. It offers a wide variety of documentaries, made by the renowned Icelandic filmmaker Valdimar Leifsson, on everything from volcanoes to the Northern Lights and glaciers. It has an impressive selection of scheduled shows and it’s also possible to book specially a number of others, including films in German.
PABLO PICASSO IN THE COLLECTION OF THE NATIONAL GALLERY Picasso’s widow, Jacqueline Roque Picasso, gave the portrait of herself to Mrs Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, who as a president of Iceland took the generosity as a gift to the nation. Following this unique decision of both women the bust was consigned to the NGI in 1988. It has been shown more often abroad than in Iceland and it is considered to be among the artist’s most unusual portraits.
THE CINEMA
VALTÝR PÉTURSSON Valtýr Pétursson (1919−1988) was a pioneer of Icelandic abstract art, a productive painter, an important critic and an active participant in artists' unions and groups. The exhibition be to opened at the National Gallery of Iceland in September 2016 is intended to provide an overview of his rich artistic career.
TEXT The exhibition T E X T shows a selection of text-based art works by fifty Icelandic and international visual artists. The works all belong to the private art collection of Reykjavík and Berlin based collectors Pétur Arason and Ragna Róbertsdóttir, whose collection of contemporary art has reached over 1.000 works since the early 1960s until today.
LIGHTPAINT Until October 9th. In the exhibition LIGHTPAINT an attempt is made to study various aspects of paintings in photos
PABLO PICASSO
of Icelandic contemporary art. Tradition maintains that artistic media are perfectly distinct and unique in nature and constitution. Nevertheless the marriage of photography and painting has always been complex and it is never easy to gather how ideas and influences entwine in the presentation of reality in each medium.
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NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND
EVENT CALENDAR
ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION
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EVENT CALENDAR Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/museums 56
REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY PORTRAITS BY HASSELBLAD AWARD WINNERS This exhibition at the Reykjavík Museum of Photography featuresa selection of works by Hasselblad Award winners, from the Hasselblad Foundation collection, with a particular focus on portraiture. Seen from the perspective of seven photographers, with works from 1940 until 2015, the exhibition features seminal pieces by legendary photographers such as Irving Penn – and his portrayals of Salvador Dalí and Marcel Duchamp – or Richard Avedon, depicting the power elite of 1970s USA for Rolling Stone magazine, in the series The Family (1976)..
MAKING OF A NATION
SEA WOMEN
CENTURY OF THE CHILD
PORTRAITS
REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM SEA WOMEN The exhibition is a collaborative project between Reykjavik city museum (of which the Maritime museum is a part) and Dr. Margaret E. Willson, an anthropologist with the University of Washington (Seattle, Washington State). Dr. Willson discovered through extensive historical and ethnographic research in Iceland that women have consistently worked at sea from the mid900s to the present day. In West Iceland, through the 1700s and 1800s, women comprised a full third of the fishing fleet. This appears to be different from any other group of female fishers about whom a study has been done. From the 1970s through the early 2000s.
FROM POVERTY TO ABUNDANCE The exhibition portrays the Icelandic fisheries at the turn of the 20th century, and realistically depicts the lives of Icelandic fishermen. During this time, tenant fishermen resided in modest coastal cottages during
the fishing season. On display is Farsæll, an original four-person rowboat built around 1900 in the Westman Islands.
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 medieval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home, it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world.
NORDIC HOUSE CENTURY OF THE CHILD: NORDIC DESIGN FOR CHILDREN 1900 TO TODAY The exhibits include prime examples of Nordic design, some of which are rare collectors items. At the exhibition you will encounter iconic works by Alvar Aalto, Ólafur Elíasson, Arne Jacobsen, Kay Bojesen, Carl og Karin Larsson, Peter Opsvik and Tove Jansson – and some of the world´s favorite brands like BRIO, LEGO and Marimekko.
Make it’s Eld sure ing!
Call us on +354 519 5000 or visit www.elding.is elding@elding.is
WHALE WATCHING
EXPRESS WHALE WATCHING
NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE
VIÐEY ISLAND
WHALE WATCHING from Reykjavík
Check out our Akureyri whale watching tours on elding.is Take part in an adventure at sea with an unforgettable trip into the world of whales and sea birds all year round.
Elding Whale Watching schedule – all year round
13:00
May 9:00
Jun 9:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 17:00 20:30*
Jul 9:00 10:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 20:30
Aug Sept Oct Nov-Dec 9:00 9:00 9:00 9:00** 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 17:00 19:00
* From 15 June ** Feb, March, November Environmental Award Icelandic Tourist Board
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Express Whale Watching (RIB-boat) EL-06 – 15 April - 31 May at 10:00 and 14:00 – 1 June - 30 June at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00 – 1. July - 31. August at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00 14:00 15:00 and 16:00. – 1-30 September, two times a day at 10:00 and 14:00.
EL-01 / EL-02 / EL-03
Jan-Mar Apr 9:00** 9:00
Northern Light Cruise EL-09 – 1 Sept - 30 Sept & 15 Mars - 15 Apr at 22:00 – 1 Oct - 14 Mars at 21:00
– 1-16 October at 10:00
TCH A I KOVSK Y
H Ö N N U N: H G M
NEW PRODUCTION
nging
An opera about deep love and lo
MUSIC DIRECTOR BENJAMIN LEVY STAGE DIRECTOR ANTHONY PILAVACHI OCT 22 · OCT 29 · NOV 6 · NOV 12 #islenskaoperan
www.opera.is
POINTS OF VIEW The exhibition offers visitors a chance to delve into the collections of six different cultural institutions, the National Museum of Iceland, National Gallery of Iceland, Natural History Museum, National Archives of Iceland, National and University Library of Iceland and Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies. Points of view offers an innovative guide to a nation’s cultural history exhibiting thousand-year-old treasures, e.g. manuscripts, along with the latest in Icelandic art.
EINAR JÓNSSON
EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM A museum in the heart of Reykjavík that houses the work of Iceland's first sculptor Einar Jónsson. The museum contains close to 300 art works 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.
EVENT CALENDAR
THE CULTURE HOUSE
SETTLEMENT SAGAS
THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION SETTLEMENT SAGAS
Written in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, the settlement sagas look back to
POINTS OF VIEW
life in Iceland from the ninth century through to the period of Iceland’s conversion to Christianity (in 1000 AD). They tell of settlers from Norway and the British Isles and the regions
where they settled, detailing their family origins and noteworthy descendants and sometimes giving their reasons for leaving their homelands.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EXHIBITIONS VISIT WHATSON.IS/MUSEUMS
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The central feature of this new exhibition are the nation‘s greatest treasures, ancient manuscripts that are usually kept under lock at The Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic studies. This is a temporary exhibition and a rare opportunity to see these culturally valuable manuscripts that describe the Settlement of Reykjavik.
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ART & CULTURE
ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM
THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION
REYKJAVIK MARITIME MUSEUM
Kistuhylur, Reykjavik 411-6304 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Opens at 13:00 for guided tours only.
Aðalstræti 16, Reykjavik 411-6370 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 9-20
Grandagarður 8, Reykjavik 411-6340 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 12-17
REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY
THE EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM
Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6390 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Mon-Thu 12-19, Fri 12-18, Sat & Sun 13-17
Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavik 551-3797 | www.lej.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM This unique museum was founded in 1957 in order to give visitors a tangible sense of Reykjavík’s past. It comprises a village-like collection of over twenty “homes,” each creating a very interesting exhibition in itself.
VIÐEY ISLAND
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Unspoiled nature reigns on island of Viðey, which has a unique place in Icelandic history. Birdlife abounds on the island, while outstandi ng works of modern art also make their mark.
Find more recommendations at whatson.is
Viðey Reykjavik 533-5055 reykjavikcitymuseum.is
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REYKJAVIK CITY LIBRARY
FREE ENTRY Looking for a place to hang out, browse the internet, get access to Wi-Fi or meet the Reykjavik locals? Then Reykjavik City Library is the perfect place to visit. Have a seat and dip into the latest magazine or relax while checking out their great selection of books. Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6100 | borgarbokasafn.is Hours: Mon-Thu 10-19, Fri 11-18, Sat & Sun 13-17
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Experience Viking-Age Reykjavik at the Settlement Exhibition. Multimedia techniques bring Reykjavik’s past to life, providing visitors with insights into how people lived in the Viking Age, and what the environment looked like to the settlers.
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM/ FREE ENTRY The aim of the museum is to shape a unique vision and to be leading in its field. The museum preserves various collections from professional and amateur photographers.
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: Wed-Mon 12-17
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM It is impossible to truly get to know Iceland without getting to know its fishing history. The museum’s main exhibitions illustrate the development from rowing boats to m o d e r n t raw l e r s a n d t h e construction of Reykjavik harbour.
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.
THE NUMISMATIC MUSEUM
FREE ENTRY A selection from the numismatic collection is on display on the ground floor of the Central Bank’s main building in Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik. Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik 569-9600 www.sedlabanki.is Hours: Mon-Fri 13:30-15:30
The Flybus operates in connection with all arriving and departing flights at Keflavík International Airport and your seat is always guaranteed.
Transfer from Keflavík Int. Airport to BSÍ Bus Terminal or vice versa.
IT IS RECOMMENDED TO ARRIVE AT THE AIRPORT 2.5 - 3 HOURS BEFORE DEPARTURE.
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Transfer from Keflavík Int. Airport to selected hotels & guesthouses in Reykjavík or vice versa.
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The National Gallery of Iceland has come a long way from its origins. To begin with, the collection consisted of donated artwork, mainly by Danish artists. Today the museum stands at Frikirkjuvegur in central Reykjavik, displaying both Icelandic and International art. Fríkirkjuvegur 7, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17
THE LIVING ART MUSEUM
An active exhibition space that has organized many exciting exhibitions throughout the years. They put a n e m p h a s i s o n i n t ro d u c i n g young Icelandic artists, as well as showcasing work by better-known Icelandic and foreign modern and contemporary artists.
Offers a state-of-the-art exhibitions on the cultural history of Iceland. The permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History of Iceland, gives a comprehensive picture of Iceland’s cultural history through the ages to the present day. Suðurgata 41, Reykjavik 530-2200 | nationalmuseum.is 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 a one of a kind. Here you’ll find a collection of more than two hundred penises and penile part belonging to almost all land and sea mammals that can be found in Iceland. Laugavegur 116, Reykjavik 561 6663 | www.phallus.is Hours: Daily 10-18
HANNESARHOLT
VOLCANO HOUSE
Grundarstígur 10, Reykjavik 511-1904 | www.hannesarholt.is Hours: Daily 11-17
Tryggvagata 11, Reykjavik 555-1900 | www.volcanohouse.is Hours: Daily 10-21
Cultural center and historic home of Hannes Hafstein, Iceland’s first Minister of State, now houses the non-profit Hannesarholt, dedicated to retrieving cultural memory, and revitalizing cultural roots. Bordstofan Bistro open daily from 11am – 6pm. Short doc on Hannes Hafstein and early Reykjavik Guided historic city walks Tue and Thu at 1 pm by appointment.
Shows documentaries that give a good idea of real life in Iceland, where volcanoes and earthquakes are a constant threat. There’s also a geological stone exhibition, which gives a brief overview of Iceland’s geological history and volcanic system, and a boutique, with Icelandic designs, artwork, lava rocks, pumice, bottles of ash and Lava Jewellery.
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. Laugarnestangi 70 553-2906 | www.lso.is Hours: Sat-Sun 14-17
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
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 center features information, education and of course stunning visuals of the elusive lights that’ll get your heart racing. Grandagarður 2, Reykjavik 780-4500 | aurorareykjavik.is Hours: Daily 9-21
Find more recommendations at whatson.is
Völvufell 13-21, Reykjavik 551-4350 | www.nylo.is Hours: Tue-Fri 12-17
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND
ART & CULTURE
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND
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ART & CULTURE
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, Reykjavik 411-6420 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17
GLJÚFRASTEINN LAXNESS MUSEUM
Halldór Laxness is arguably the most famous Icelandic writer of all time, and the only Icelander to have won a Nobel Prize, which he received for literature in 1955. Gljúfrasteinn was his home until his death, and today it is a museum dedicated to his life and work.
Find more recommendations at whatson.is
Gljúfrasteinn, Mosfellsbær 586-8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is Closed for repairs in October.
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ÁSMUNDARSAFN
Opened in 1983, the collection is housed in a unique building designed and constructed mostly by the artist himself from 19421950. The original building served Sveinsson as studio and home; behind it he built a crescent-shaped structure as a work- and exhibition space. Sigtún, Reykjavik 411-6430 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17.
THE CULTURE HOUSE
Artifacts and works of art from the varied collections of six institutions provide a reflection of Iceland’s visual art history and cultural heritage in the exhibition Points of View, a journey through the Icelandic visual world of past and present. There are seven points of view to be found in as many wings of the house, connecting what you’ll see, independent from the medium or time. Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavik 545-1400 | www.culturehouse.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17
GERÐARSAFN
SAGA MUSEUM
Hamraborg 4, Kópavogur 441-7600 | gerdarsafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 11-17
Grandagardur 2, Reykjavik 511-1517 | sagamuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-18
Gerðarsafn is a progressive modern art museum in Kópavogur. It’s dedicated to sculptor Gerður Helgadóttir and it’s the only museum in Iceland dedicated to a woman. The museum collection consists of more than 1400 works by Gerður, as well as the works of the most celebrated Icelandic artists of the 20th and 21st century.
From the time of the earliest settlers, history is brought to life in a unique and exciting way. The Saga Museum intimately recreates key moments in Icelandic history, moments that have determined the fate of our people and which give a compelling view into how Icelanders have lived for more than a millenium.
HAFNARHÚS
The Reykjavik Art Museum took p o ss e ss i o n o f i t s p o r t i o n o f Hafnarhús (Harbour House) in 2000. Hafnarhús was built in 193239 for the offices and warehouses of Reykjavik Harbor and was at that time one of the largest buildings in the country. Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavik 411-6410 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Thu 10-20
ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION
One of the pioneers of Icelandic art and the first Icelander to take up painting professionally. Having died in 1958, he bequeathed all his works, as well as his studio home to the Icelandic nation. Bergstaðastræti 74, Reykjavík 515-9625 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Sun 14-17
WHALES OF ICELAND
The largest whale exhibition in Europe (and perhaps even the world), where guests can learn about the giants of the sea in a calm and modern environment. The permanent exhibition features whales like guests have never seen them before. It is truly a giant experience. Fiskislóð 23-25, Reykjavik 571-0077 | whalesoficeland.is Hours: Daily 10-17
Wool & Souvenirs
The viking:info Skólavörðustíg 3 · Reykjavík Skólavörðustíg 25 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 104 · Akureyri info@theviking.is
www.theviking.is www.facebook.com/TheVikingAkureyri www.facebook.com/TheVikingReykjavik
Akureyri Reykjavík
TAX FREE
Two Icelandic themed villages
HLI
Ð Á LF TA NE SI
Restaurant & Lodging
The Viking Village is a unique place and it is the only Viking theme Hotel and restaurant in Iceland. We have step by step been developing our facilities over the last 24 years and will hopefully continue to do so in the future. We offer Hotel accommodation and Viking houses. Good for families and groups.
The Fisherman´s village, our newest accommodation is Hlið in Álftanes only few minutes drive from the Viking Village. Like a country home by the seaside. Such an idyllic place to visit. The restaurant is open for groups in the evenings. Close to the president´s residence.
ve ri re d nt es ce ut ty in ci m e 15 th to
Viking feasts - Souvenirs - Live entertainment most nights “You haven't been in Iceland if you haven't been to us“ Don’t miss it! Booking: www.vikingvillage.is | +354 565 1213
Welcome to Gló Restaurant AT LAUGAVEGUR Gló is Iceland’s most popular health food restaurant in Reykjavik. Gló offers different set menu everyday: Raw food, chicken, a vegetarian dish and soup. Tasty desserts, coffee, tea and delicious juices are offered as well.
Laugavegur 20b · Open every day 11–22 Tel 553 1111 · www.glo.is · #gloiceland
Named after a legendary Icelandic football player, Reykjavík's premier Sports Bar is nestled in the heart of the city and boasts the biggest array of HD screens in town. Classic bar food is served hot and the beers ice cold. Finally, it’s open 7 days a week so you never miss the game! Austurstræti 20, Reykjavik 561-2240 | bjarnifel.is
KOFINN
This café/bar is in the perfect spot on the main street. This snug basement used to be a butcher’s shop but has been transformed into a comfy place to relax, have a drink and swap tales with friends. As an added bonus, Kofinn doesn’t just have happy hour, they have coffee hour as well! Laugavegur 2, Reykjavik www.ktf.is
Best known as Damon Albarn’s hangout place back in the days, this most famous bar in Iceland is a popular destination for the artsy and univer sity crowd. During the week it‘s more of a café, but on the weekend the volume rises and KB becomes one of the hottest bars in Reykjavik. Bergstaðastræti 1, Reykjavik 551-1588 www.kaffibarinn.is
AMERICAN BAR
Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 581-2200
Austurstræti 8, Reykjavik 571 9999
B5
DEN DANSKE KRO
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 craftbrewed beers on tap. Great happy hour and great fun, Kaldi is a place not-to-be-missed!
B5 bar/bistro has become a very popular establishment with the locals of the capital. With its very contemporary and stylish interior, b5 is laid back during the day, while as night falls, the lights dim and the atmosphere changes accordingly. Bankastræti 5, Reykjavik 552-9600 www.b5.is
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.
There is live music playing every night at Den Danske Kro and sometimes there are live football games, pub quizzes, beer bingo, darts and happy hours. Den Danske Kro is a casual place in the heart of Reykjavik where everyone is welcome. Ingólfsstræti 3, Reykjavik 552-0070 www.danski.is
BAR ANANAS
THE ENGLISH PUB
Klapparstígur 38, Reykjavik
Austurstræti 12, Reykjavik 578-0400 www.facebook.com/enskibarinn
Ten seconds from Laugavegur, you'll find Iceland’s one and only BeachBar/Tiki Bar in downtown Reykjavík. There, most things are made in the shape of a pineapple. Pillows, glasses, chandeliers, candlesticks and more. At weekends city's best DJs will make guests feel sunny while they enjoy some of the best cocktails in town. G
In the mood for a pint? English Pub offers over 35 brands of beer and Whiskey. Whatever your preference – you will find it here. This is also a great place if you would like to catch some football (soccer). Inside they have 3 big screens and 2 TV’s so that you can catch all the action as it happens.
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KAFFIBARINN
KALDI BAR
PUBS & NIGHTLIFE
BJARNI FEL SPORTSBAR
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SHOPPING & STYLE Find more recommendations at whatson.is 70
ANNA MARÍA DESIGN
For over twenty years, jewelry designer Anna Maria has created her things of gold and silver, a design that is both pure and timeless. Exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship create the elegant simplicity that shines through Anna Maria’s products. Skólavörðustígur 3, Reykjavik 551-0036 www.annamariadesign.is
LISTVINAHÚSIÐ
The oldest ceramic workshop in Iceland established 1927. Three generations of artistic potters. U n i q u e h a n d m a d e ce ra m i c s , Viking masks and various ceramic potteries decorated with lava, made by Gudmundur Einarsson. Located right next to Hallgrímskirkja and the statue of “Leif the Lucky”. Skólavörðustígur 43, Reykjavik 551-2850 www.listvinahusid.is
FJALLAKOFINN
At Fjallakofinn you can find top quality clothing and good equipment at a fair price. They offer good advise on all backpacking and outdoor related things and offer basic things like backpacks, sleeping bags and tents for rent. A licensed retailer of many big brands, you’ll find everything for your outdoor needs. Laugavegur 11, Reykjavik 510-9505 | www.fjallakofinn.is
ÁLAFOSS
One of Iceland’s major woollen industry shops, the Álafoss store. Situated in old factory premises that for decades were the leading manufacturers and exporters of Icelandic woollens, Álafoss is a company that strives towards offering the newest wares along with the traditional Icelandic wool sweaters. Laugavegur 8, Reykjavik 566-6303 | www.alafoss.is
LISTASELIÐ
IGLÓ&INDÍ
Skólavörðustígur 17b, Reykjavik 551-5675 | www.listaselid.is Hours: Mon-Fri 12-18, Sat 11-16
Skólavörðustígur 2, Reykjavik 445-2020 | www.igloandindi.com
Six energetic women design and create exclusive art, while also running and working in the gallery. The gallery offers gift vouchers, issued by the store or by the Centrum organization that can be redeemed within most shops on Laugarvegur and Skólavörðustígur in downtown Reykjavik.
Loved by parents and children alike and praised in the media for boldness and creativity, Ígló&Indí has offered both parents and children an ever growing collection of clothes with a fresh take on children’s fashion since 2008— representing the best childhood has to offer.
THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS SHOP
On Laugavegur, in the heart of Reykjavík, you’ll find the very unique Little Christmas Shop— which is dedicated to the spirit of Christmas, all year round. There you’ll find Icelandic decorations and everything needed for that festive spirit. Should not be missed as it is definitely one of the most special and fun stores to visit. Laugavegur 8, Reykjavik 552-2412
METAL DESIGN
The jewellery forms which Metal design is known for are inspired by the Icelandic flora. But what stands out the most is the shape “The Coast” that is inspired by the waves of the Icelandic coast.”The coast silver jewellery line is for ladies and gentlemen. Skólavörðustígur 2. Reykjavik 552-5445 www.MetalDesignReykjavik.is
CINTAMANI
Nowhere in the populated world does the weather change as fast, or as often as here. Thus Icelandic d e s i g n e r s h ave to m e e t t h e requirements of consumers who have to go out all year long in harsh conditions. That‘s where the label Cintamani comes to the rescue. Their goal is to keep us warm, dry and comfortable, whatever the weather may bring. Bankastræti 7, Reykjavik 533-3800 | www.cintamani.is
BY BOAT
ALSO TRY
NORTHERN LIGHTS BY BOAT
SEP OCT NOV DES JAN FEB MAR APR** 22:00 21:00* 21:00 21:00 21:00 21:00 21:00* 22:00
WHALE WATCHING FROM REYKJAVIK
PRICE: Adults 9.900 ISK Children (7-15) 50% OFF Children (0-6) FREE
*Departing at 21:00 from 16th Oct-14th Mar **Until 15 April
WHALE WATCHING SEP OCT NOV DES JAN FEB MAR APR 09:00 09:00 09:00 09:00 10:00* 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00* 17:00** Price: Adults: 9.900 ISK Children (7-15) 50% OFF Children (0-6) FREE
*Express tour ** Until 15th September
WE GO THE EXTRA MILE! Book online www.specialtours.is / info@specialtours.is Call us +354 560 8800, or visit our ticket sale at the old harbour
SHOPPING & STYLE
GULLKÚNST HELGU
With its wide open spaces and beautiful treasures displayed in glass casting, Gullkúnst Helgu feels more like a gallery than a jewelry shop. Located on central Laugavegur, Reykjavik's busiest shopping street, this family owned shop is not to be missed. Laugavegur 13, Reykjavik 561-6660 www.gullkunst.is
STUDIO STAFN
At Studio Stafn you will be able to look at art, purchase art and have your art framed! Great works and historical paintings by Iceland’s most famous artists could become all yours if you pay them a visit. If you’re not looking to buy art, at least stop by and take a look.
Find more recommendations at whatson.is
Ingólfsstræti 6, Reykjavik 552-4700 www.studiostafn.is
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THE HANDKNITTING ASSOCIATION OF ICELAND
Renowned for its excellent products and quality. Offering the widest selection of traditional hand knitted Icelandic sweaters, the range of products also includes special designs and a variety of woolen products from leading Icelandic manufactures. Skólavörðustígur 19, Reykjavik 552-1890 | www.handknit.is
MICHELSEN
KRAUM
Laugavegur 15, Reykjavik 511-1900 | www.michelsen.is
Bankastræti 7, Reykjavik 517-7797 www.kraum.is
HILDUR HAFSTEIN
GEYSIR
Inside their spacious shop in downtown Reykjavik, Michelsen Watchmakers offer you to browse one of Iceland’s best selection of watches. Along with their own design they also have a wide selection of well-known brands including Rolex, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, Movado, Swiss Military and more.
A wonderful little workshop, where Hildur Hafstein creates her handmade Icelandic jewelry line, KORA. Inspired by different elements, such as Buddhism and the flower power, a visit to Hildur Hafstein will be a pleasant experience. Although the store is technically on Laugavegur, you walk in from Klapparstígur! Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 771-1177 www.HildurHafstein.is
EPAL
Their main goal has been to increase Icelanders interest and respect for fine design by introducing and providing top quality design products from all over the world, particularly Scandinavia. Epal has always been very supportive of Icelandic designers and done what they can to help them promote their design around the world. Laugavegur 70.Skeifan 6, & Harpa Reykjavik, Keflavík Airport 568-7740 | www.epal.is
Natural light floods the wooden floors and the fresh white walls of this stunning design hub and retail outlet, which already attracts some of Iceland's top talents. More than 70 designers are contributing to a huge selection of products that include children’s puzzles, fish skin lamps and exquisite jewellery.
Rustic, vintage interior, intertwined with the latest fashion in outdoor and woolen clothing. Add some puffin, reindeers and other iconic animals and you‘ve got one of the coolest shops in town. This is one place you‘ll have to visit, if only for the experience. Skólavörðustíg 16, Reykjavík 519-6000 www.geysir.com
KRINGLAN
Kringlan Shopping Centre is conveniently located close to downtown Reykjavik. Standing at 50.000 sq.m. and equipped with 150 shops and services, including a multiplex cinema, a seven-outlet food court and three themed restaurants, it has something to suit every need. Kringlan 4-12, Reykjavik 517-9000 | www.kringlan.is
Pub quiz Bingo
Dj lounge
Gourmet Experience
- Steaks and Style at Argentina Steakhouse Barónsstíg 11 - 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 9555 argentina.is
FOOD & DRINK
FORRÉTTABARINN
Tasty tapas with an Icelandic twist. With a new spin on traditional Icelandic cuisine and an extensive selection of local beer, Forréttabarinn – “The Starters Bar” – is worth seeking out when you need a bite to eat or a place to start your night out in Reykjavík. Whatever you choose from the refreshingly creative menu, you’re in for a treat!
Find more recommendations at whatson.is
Is a centrally located and affordable restaurant that boasts an extensive international menu with an emphasis on Tex-Mex, Italian, Indian and many light meal options. One thing you can be sure of, when you visit Vegamót is that the place will be crowded. It's usually filled with locals for lunch, dinner and during evenings.
BRYGGJAN Bryggjan is not just a restaurant where you can get fresh Icelandic seafood overlooking the old harbour, it also doubles as a brewery. For beer enthusiasts, Bryggjan also offers an evening of beer school, where you can learn all about the beer and how it’s made, while tasting it with the appropriate courses.
Nýlendugata 14, Reykjavík 517-1800 | www.forrettabarinn.is
Vegamótastígur 4, Reykjavik 511-3040 | www.vegamot.is
Grandagarður 8, Reykjavík 456-4040 | bryggjanbrugghus.is
AUSTURLANDAHRAÐLESTIN
ARGENTÍNA STEAKHOUSE
HAMBORGARABÚLLAN – BURGER JOINT
Barónsstígur 11a, Reykjavik 551-9555 | www.argentina.is
Geirsgata 1, Reykjavik 511-1888 www.bullan.is
UNO RESTAURANT
ICELANDIC FISH & CHIPS
An excellent Indian restaurant, focusing on quality take-away, with the option of eating in. This means that while it‘s technically “fast food”, it’s definitely of restaurant q u a l i t y. T h e m e n u i n c l u d e s everything you could expect from an Indian restaurant, with the Chicken Tandoori being especially recommended.
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VEGAMÓT BISTRO
Lækjargata 8, Reykjavik 578-3838 | www.hradlestin.is
SNAPS
A new restaurant in Iceland situated at Odinstorg. Snaps is a classic french bistro using local Icelandic ingredients. The location could not be better. Snaps is literally a few steps away from downtown Reykjavik, close to the National Theatre, The National Gallery of Iceland and the two main shopping streets of Reykjavik” Óðinstorg, Reykjavik 511-6677 | www.snaps.is
They offer some of the the finest cuisine there is to find in the whole city. Grilling meat and fish of all kinds Argentinian style using wooden coal is what they do better than any other restaurant and frankly, you won‘t believe your own tastebuds
Uno is a relatively new, modern Italian restaurant in downtown Reykjavik, where original Italian culinary customs and Icelandic ingredients come together to form a delightful treat. Whether you're in the mood for a light lunch or a dinner feast, Uno is the place to be! Hafnarstræti 1-3, Reykjavik 561-1313 | www.uno.is
Since 2004, the Joint has kept it simple, fun and delicious. Sitting right by the Old Harbour, in a small, iconic house, the atmosphere of the Burger Joint is hard to find elsewhere. You can feel the joy of the staff, as they serve you juicy burgers, exploding with great taste.
This is not your run of the mill fish and chip shop! Not only does the restaurant use the freshest fish and ingredients, they serve their fish with delicious skyr-based sauces,.This fast-food upgrade is much more nutritious than you‘d think! After eating, we recommend visiting the Volcano House, it‘s in the same building! Tryggvagata 11, Reykjavik 511 11 18 | ww.fishandchips.is
SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 14 - 101 REYKJAVÍK - TEL: +354 571 1100
over 20 flatscreens 5 projectors
HD Y
QUALIT
soccer, nba, nfl, nhl, ufc, golf, tennis, formula 1 track and field, nascar, winter sports... we have it all live events every day Hamburgers, sandwiches, salat, steaks, icelandic food, and ice cold beer www.bjarnifel.is - tel. 561 2240
TS ALL SPOR
SEAFOOD
BUFFET Every day from 17:30
Salted Cod With almond and chive butter, fig and potatoes
3.855
IKR
+3 5 4 5 1 7 4 3 0 0 geysirbistro.is
A new restaurant opposite the old harbour that offers traditional steak dishes along with some exciting and fairly unorthodox choices. The pride and joy of The Steakhouse is the Mibrasa charcoal oven, a rare oven that is designed to cook the perfect steak by mixing modern technology with ancient tradition. Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavik 561-1111 | www.steik.is
AUSTURINDÍAFJELAGIÐ
The spices used to season the food at Austur-Indiafjelagid are imported directly from India and blended on the spot by their team of highly experienced chefs. The Tandoori dishes on the menu must be mentioned, as the chefs have truly mastered the art of Tandoori grilling. Hverfisgata 56, Reykjavik 552-1630 | www.austurindia.is
JOE & THE JUICE
THE ICELANDIC BAR
Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík; Smáralind, Kringlan, World Class Laugum, Keflavík Airport www.joeandthejuice.is
Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík 517-6767 | www.islenskibarinn.is
Joe & The Juice is an on-trend coffee shop / juice bar. The concept answers today’s busy people’s needs for a quick pick-me-up in the form of great espresso drinks, freshly pressed juices, and variety of sandwiches prepared on the spot.
What’s the only thing that’s better than a feast of Icelandic langoustine? A feast of Icelandic langoustine in a charming restaurant by the seaside in a tiny, picturesque fishing village. Their langoustine soup alone is well worth the 45-minute drive from the city. Fjöruborðið Eyrarbraut 3 A Stokkseyri 483-1550 | www.fjorubordid.is
Hlölli has been serving up delicious subs, with his secret-ingredient sauce, for more than 30 years. Whether you’re in the mood for a lunch on your way about town or a late night snack after a night of dancing in the Reykjavík clubs, Hlöllabátar is the way to go. The bread is baked fresh every day and topped with fresh Icelandic ingredients. Ingólfstorgi, Reykjavik 511-3500 | www.hlollabatar.is
PYLSUHÚSIÐ
Hot dogs are the perfect fast food. They’re quick, portable and they taste great!. The classic Icelandic hot dog with all the fixings, raw and fried onions, ketchup, remoulade and mustard is of course available here, but they also offer more adventurous “dogs”, like chilli dogs and a French hot dog. If you’re not in the mood for a hot dog, they also serve ice cream! Ingólfstorgi, Reykjavik 842-2800
KAFFITÁR
KRÚSKA
Bankastræti 8, Reykjavik 420-2700 www.kaffitar.is/en
Suðurlandsbraut 12, Reykjavik 557-5880 | www.kruska.is
A chain of cafés and espresso bars with over 30 years of experience in serving and roasting high-quality coffee. They operate cafés in 8 locations in Iceland, promising a highly knowledgeable staff and a great cup of coffee procured in a responsible and fair way.
Krúska serves delicious, nutritious meals, both for people on the go and those who want to linger over their vegan, fish, vegetarian or chicken dishes. Everything is made right in their own kitchen from first class ingredients with no additives or preservatives. Krúska also serves coffee and cakes.
Find more recommendations at whatson.is
FJÖRUBORÐIÐ
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.
HLÖLLI
FOOD & DRINK
THE STEAK HOUSE
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FOOD & DRINK
KITCHEN AND WINE
Situated inside the stylish 101 hotel downtown, Kitchen and Wine is a luxurious bistro with a relaxed atmosphere. The cuisine is seasonal and focuses on simplicity and finesse. The cocktails are also excellent! Hverfisgata 10, Reykjavik 580-0103 www.kitchenandwine.is
KOPAR
Kopar is a restaurant by the old harbour in Reykjavik which has an emphasis on adventure and experience in a brasserie setting. Their menu is composed of various locally sourced ingredients from sea and land, and aims to give you a taste of Iceland in a single evening.
Find more recommendations at whatson.is
Geirsgata 3, Reykjavik 567-2700 www.koparrestaurant.is
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FLJÓTT OG GOTT
One of Reykjavik’s iconic restaurants, located in the main bus terminal, BSÍ. Here you can have the coveted “Sheep’s Head” as well as all the traditional Icelandic food, which is a must-try for all adventurous travellers! Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, Reykjavik 552-1288 | www.fljottoggott.is
MAR - SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
A restaurant in prime location in Reykjavík‘s old harbour. The menu is inspired by South-American and southern-European cuisine and the restaurant designed to deliver fresh and uplifting dining experience, unique to the harbour area. MAR is an interesting choice for individuals and groups alike.
SMURSTÖÐIN
Not only does Smurstöðin have some of Reykjavík’s best new Nordic smørrebrød, it also has the added bonus of being inside the stunning Harpa concert hall. The delicious, beautifully decorated open-faced sandwiches are best washed down with an icy glass of the house-made schnapps.
Geirsgata 9, Reykjavik 519-5050 | www.marrestaurant.is
Harpa Austurbakki 2, Reykjavik 519-9750 | www.smurstodin.is
GRILLHÚSIÐ
73 RESTAURANT
Tryggvagata 20, Reykjavik 527-5000 www.grillhusid.is
Laugavegur 73, Reykjavik 555 7373 www.73.is
FISH COMPANY
KOLABRAUTIN
A fun restaurant, with the look and feel of an American Diner. Reasonably priced, offering delicious food and a very good service, you‘ll definitely get great value for your money here. They put a special emphasis on using only high quality ingredients, making for a terrific meal.
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, Reykjavik 552-5300 | www.fiskfelagid.is
Offering a great selection of Icelandic brews and one of the most Epic Burgers this country has ever seen (300gr!), 73, a family-owned and operated restaurant is the place to go for those seeking great food at good prices. Take note that the outdoor seating area is a special treat!
Harpa is not only home to the Icelandic Opera and the Orchestra, it is also the location of one of Reykjavik‘s newest fine restaurants. The kitchen is in the middle of the room, where the fiery furnace gives the dinner guests a warm welcome. An ideal choice for people who appreciate fine cuisine combined with unique architecture and elegant atmosphere. Harpa, Reykjavik 519-9700 | www.kolabrautin.is
Choose Vodafone Iceland With Vodafone , you gain access to an extensive 4G network in Iceland with excellent 3G/4G roaming connectivity, no matter whether you’re on sea or land. Share your memories by using Vodafone’s prepaid mobile starter kit with voice and data. Vodafone Power to you
Buy your prepaid SIM card at Keflavík Airport, What’s On at Laugavegur 5 and Tryggvagata 11, Macland, Vodafone stores, N1 fuel stations all around Iceland, and at our network of resellers.
NICE
GREAT FOODGOOD DRINKS ATMO HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY 17-19
KITCHEN IS OPEN Weekends 11.30–24 Other days 11.30–23
UNO at Ingólfstorg | Tel. 561 1313 | www.uno.is
Enjoy the freedom of riding ÍSHESTAR offers horseback riding tours through the spectacular Icelandic landscape. Whether you join our tours into the wilderness of the remote highlands, through the lush countryside or, all year round, for a short ride from our Riding Centre near Reykjavik, riding with Íshestar is a great experience. For further information check out our website www.ishestar.is, call +354 555 7000 or be our friend on Facebook.
For over 30 years Íshestar has given people an opportunity to ride the Icelandic horse, the most versatile gait horse in the world. Horses are our partners and our passion.
Got a question about Iceland? Wondering if it’s safe? (It is). Who the president is? (Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson). Maybe you’re wondering about where to find some original Icelandic Igloos? (Just stop. Don’t.). We have the answers to these questions and plenty more at our website: www.whatson.is. If you can’t find your answer there, just visit us on Laugavegur 4 in Reykjavík, or drop us an e-mail at whatson@whatson.is. MUST KNOW PHONE NUMBERS
IMPORTANT STATISTICS
112 – The only number you need to have in your arsenal. If you get hurt, robbed, set on fire or accidentally set something on fire yourself, this is the number you call. Memorize it. Luckily, it isn’t complicated.
330.000 The population of the country. Yes, we know, it’s not a lot.
5885522 – Thanks to a catchy jingle this company had in the early nineties, every Icelander knows this number. There are other taxi companies, but ask any Icelander for a number for a taxi, this is probably what you get.
0 Number of people living in Igloos in Iceland. 99.5 Percentage of Icelanders who speak English. Although we of course encourage you to check out the beautiful Icelandic language, if only for the always hilarious Eyjafjallajökull joke, you’ll be perfectly safe conversing with locals in a more international language.
11 The street number of the Tryggvagata location of the Volcano House, which also has a What‘s On information desk. 5 Number of post offices in the Reykjavík area. Also the street number of our Laugavegur office! Stop by in case you have more questions, or just want to chat! 230 Number of volts Icelandic electricity uses. Converters are needed for people from the UK and the USA, at least for those who like their phones charged and their hair dry and/ or curled.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: NUMBERS YOU SHOULD KNOW!
1818 – If you forget the emergency number, want to call a different taxi company or you met some nice Icelanders last night and want to call them up, this is the only number you need, the Icelandic phonebook. +354 – The country code to Iceland. Add this to the seven digit phone numbers in Iceland and you can telephone to your heart’s desire, so long as you’re calling people in Iceland.
CHECK OUT MORE ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ONLINE AT WHATSON.IS/FAQ
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Make a toast with Iceland’s no. 1 beer Pour a glass of the number one beer in the country, raise your glass to a friend and say “scowl fyrewr thyer!” You should fit right in. Skál fyrir þér!
Enjoy responsibly
SPENDING QUALITY TIME WITH THE LOCALS: PRICELESS Enjoy your stay in Iceland, where you are as welcome as your MasterCard®
– Visit our stores: Skólavörðustígur & Kringlan, Reykjavík. Hafnarstræti, Akureyri. Geysir, Haukadalur. geysir.com –