Reykjavík, Iceland: An Extensive City Guide

Reykjavík, Iceland: An Extensive City Guide

Nally
Reykjavík is the capital and largest city in Iceland. It’s also the northernmost capital in the world. The city, on the southwest coast of the island nation, is home to less than 150,000 people (that’s 60% of the total population). It’s by no means sleepy, though. It has a thriving art scene (music festivals, independent record stores, pop-up exhibits) and foodie spots (Michelin restaurants, organic wine bars, coffee culture). A grand church towers over the city. Candy-colored houses line the streets. Thermal swimming pools are gathering spots for most neighborhoods. Northern lights sightings are a real possibility (seasonally, of course). It’s also the jumping-off point for exciting adventures all around the Land of Fire and Ice. Pack for all seasons, as the weather changes frequently throughout the day--no matter what time of year it is. And be prepared to fall in love. This detailed guide includes: Places: islands, neighborhoods Stay: hotels Eat: bakeries, cafés, coffee shops, food carts & halls, ice cream, Michelin stars, restaurants Drink: beer bars, breweries, cocktail bars, wine bars Shop: beauty products, bookstores, chocolate shops, clothing boutiques, flea markets, outdoor wear, record stores, vintage clothing, wool products Do: art museums, churches, concert venues, history museums, lakes, memorials, parks, peace stones, roads, sculptures, sports venues, squares, streets Transportation: airports, bus terminals, car rentals, ferries Note: I travel to Reykjavík quite frequently, so this guide is updated often.
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Reykjavík

Reykjavík
@nally
Reykjavík is the capital and largest city in Iceland. It’s also the northernmost capital in the world. The city, on the southwest coast of the island nation, is home to less than 150,000 people (that’s 60% of the total population). It’s by no means sleepy, though. It has a thriving art scene (music festivals, independent record stores, pop-up exhibits) and foodie scene (Michelin restaurants, organic wine bars, coffee culture). A grand church towers over the city. Thermal swimming pools are gathering spots for most neighborhoods. Northern lights sightings are a real possibility (seasonally, of course). It’s also the jumping-off point for exciting adventures all around the Land of Fire and Ice. Pack for all seasons, as the weather changes frequently throughout the day--no matter what time of year it is. And be prepared to fall in love.
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Vesturbær

Vesturbær
@nally
Vesturbær is the oldest neighborhood in Reykjavík. This is the main port, where fishing vessels are docked beside whale-watching cruise ships. Old warehouses are being turned into food halls, breweries, and art museums. Historic buildings stand next to new hotels. Traditional seafood restaurants now compete with taco joints, dim sum pop-ups, and hip cocktail bars. Take your time, there's a lot to explore.
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Alda Music Plötubúð
@nally
Alda is a small but mighty record store in Reykjavík's Old Harbour. They sell both Icelandic and international music. On a nice day, add it to a walk that includes Farmer & Friends, Sóley Organics, and Omnom Chocolate Ice Cream Shop. Closed on Sunday.
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Farmers & Friends / Farmers Market - flagship store & design studio
@nally
If you notice a certain look--high-end clothing, modern styles, Nordic design, natural fabrics--in Reykjavík, it probably comes from Farmers & Friends. The clothing brand was founded by a designer/musician couple. They now have stores in both the Old Harbour and on Laugavegur. Expect high prices and unique pieces.
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Omnom Chocolate Ice Cream Shop
@nally
Chocolate and ice cream on a gorgeous day in Reykjavík? Yes, please. Omnom Chocolate Ice Cream Shop was established by two friends in the Old Harbor. The little sweet shop sells bean-to-bar chocolates and ice-cream creations. Start with an ice cream (perhaps with caramel-chocolate brittle, salted caramel sauce, and a piece of milk chocolate) to eat outside on a picnic table. Then buy a couple of chocolate bars (try the Black n' Burnt Barley with toasted and puffed barley and lava salt) to take home. Hopefully they make it all the way home!
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Sóley store - Sóley Organics ehf
@nally
Icelandic actress Sóley Elíasdóttir was inspired by her ancestors--a healer and midwife, and an herbal-medicine doctor--to change careers. She founded Sóley Organics, whose products are made with pure Icelandic water and wild Icelandic herbs. They're sold at a minimal little shop in the Old Harbour, as well as speciality stores and pharmacies around Reykjavík. Expect elegant packaging and an online restocking order once you return home.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nally
Big destinations. Little details. I travel—a lot. I’m always taking notes, organizing quick getaways, plotting big holidays, and dreaming. I’ve been to six continents (I’ll get to Antarctica eventually), nearly 40 countries, and too many cities and islands to count. Tons of planning, way more than is actually necessary, goes into each adventure. Your trips can benefit from my little addiction. No two people are exactly alike. No two vacations should be the same either. These guides are designed to help you follow your passions, satisfy your cravings, and spark new whims. Think of them as starting points as you create your own exciting itineraries.
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Iceland
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Reykjavík, Iceland
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