Tourist Attractions in Reykjavík

Exploring Reykjavik is a little like looking into a kaleidoscope. This Nordic city is fascinating with its colors, sights and stark contrasts. A vibrant and flourishing cultural centre set against a stunning backdrop makes Reykjavik a popular tourist destination. Until the 18th century this was a tiny unknown city; now Greater Reykjavik consists of the Old Town, harbor and other municipalities, all of which are worth a visit with their brightly painted houses, clean roads and cultural landmarks. There are various trips and tours available, best suited to your preferences, regardless of whether you are here to relax or up for some gut wrenching action. Don't forget to visit the Reykjavik Tourist Centre and buy a Reykjavik Tourist Card that allows you free access to a number of museums, galleries and unlimited traveling on Strætó buses.

National Museum of Iceland

To acquaint yourself more with Iceland, visit the National Museum of Iceland and learn about the heritage and history of the island. Guided tours in English are available as you view the various exhibitions on social culture, language, and every day life. Another museum worth visiting that explores the environment of the island is the Museum of Natural History. Once you have explored Iceland's past, visit the Reykjavík Art Museum which offers free admission and guided tours. This museum is three in one, which includes a sculpture museum, the Harbour House, and Kjarvalsstadir. If modern and progressive art is more your style, check out the Living Art Museum.

Nauthólsvík Thermal Beach

There are certain aspects of Reykjavik that shouldn't be missed. The splendor of the Northern Lights and the jewel toned waters of the Lagoon are tourist must-sees. Although you need to be there at the right place and time to catch the Northern Lights display, you can dip into the soothing waters of the lagoon at the Nauthólsvík Thermal Beach. This man made beach's water temperature ranges between 18°-35° C/ 65°-95° F. You can take also take a small sail boat out, or hike along the shoreline. Other excellent places to visit if you're in search of warm waters are the geothermal pools and Jacuzzis at Arbaejarlaug or the Sundhöll Hafnarfjarðar. Reykjavik has 16 thermal pools. This pure thermal water with its minerals is an excellent way to relax after a long day of sightseeing. So go ahead and take advantage of these natural soothing aids.

Húsdýragarðurinn

Traveling with children just got a little easier! Parents can sit and enjoy a strong cup of java while the kids are regaled by the animals and farmyard procedures at Laugabakkar, a farm café. Knowledge can be made fun at the Húsdýragarðurinn, a farm animal zoo. In addition to the animals, the zoo is also home to Science World and an Aquarium. The aquarium contains over twenty species of fish and the hands on exhibits at Science World encourage education and is fun for all ages. Another great place to visit is Fjölskyldugarðurinn, a family park that offers an array of activities. During your visit don't forget to stop by Raudavatn, the perfect place during any season. This park offers skating, wind surfing, and other fun activities.

Mount Esja

If you are the kind of person who can't waste a minute relaxing, or love pushing your body to the maximum, Reykjavik has loads for you. The great Mount Esja is an ideal hiking ground with paths for people of all fitness levels. The various trails are suitable for the whole family and will bring you to an elevation of about 720 m above sea level, for a fantastic view of Reykjavik. Esja, a volcanic mountain range, has plenty of exciting and daring activities, including ice climbing up frozen waterfalls. Speaking of waterfalls, just minutes from Reykjavik is Iceland's largest waterfall, Glymurfoss. Or for more sensational scenery, visit Viðey island. Here you will discover more of Iceland's unique history. Another great spot to visit is Iceland's largest lake, Elliðavatn. Here you can take a relaxing walk along the lake, and visit the historic ruins that date back to the Viking age.

Reykjavik is chock-o-block with cultural landmarks and natural sights. It is best to take a tour that explores the side of the city that you most enjoy. A perfect end to such a day would be enjoying a meal and a few drinks at one of the innumerable restaurants and bars – so go ahead and get a taste of Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife.

Adventure Tours

Terra Nova Iceland (+35 4 591 9010/ http://www.terranova-iceland.is/ ) Activity Group ( +35 4 580 9900/ http://www.activity.is/ ) Eldhestar ( +35 4 480 4800/ http://www.eldhestar.is/ ) Icelandic Mountain Guides ( +35 4 587 9999/ http://www.mountainguides.is/ )

Soar Over Rekyjavik

Terra Nova Iceland (+35 4 591 9010/ http://www.terranova-iceland.is/ ) Eagle Air ( +35 4 562 4200/ http://www.eagleair.is/ )

Sailing Tours

Terra Nova Incentives ( +35 4 591 9030/ http://www.incentives.is/ ) Destination Iceland ( +35 4 585 4270/ http://www.destination-iceland.com/ ) Húni II ( +35 4 894 1388/ http://www.hafnarfjordur.is/ )

Bike Tours

Terra Nova Incentives ( +35 4 591 9030/ http://www.incentives.is/ )

Culture Tours

Terra Nova Iceland ( +35 4 591 9010/ http://www.terranova-iceland.is/ ) Golden Circle Tour ( +35 4 562 3045/ http://www.thingvellir.is/english/ )

Nightlife Tour

Night Life Friend ( +35 4 822 6600/ http://www.nightlifefriend.com/ )