Reykjavik the Northernmost capital in the world
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Reykjavik the Northernmost capital in the world

Active
(6 reviews)
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We are born and raised in Reykjavík.
Reykjavík Centre has a special meaning to us because we have seen it grow almost from turf houses to the large concrete buildings we see today.
Reykjavík is a mixture of the old and the new.
Street art, museums, culture and more can be found in our beautiful capital.

Available options

Reykjavik the Northernmost capital in the world

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
WiFi on board
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1

Parliament House, which stands on Austurvöllur square, was built in 1880–81. Two annexes have been added to the original building, Kringlan (the Rotunda) in 1908and Skálinn in 2002. The garden of Parliament House is Iceland's oldest public garden. Dating from 1893–95, it was largely the work of parliamentarian/bank director Tryggvi Gunnarsson.In 1867 Althingi resolved to mark the millennium of the settlement of Iceland byholding a national festival in 1874, and by building a Parliament House in Reykjavík, of Icelandic stone.

2

Grjótaþorp (Grjóti Village) derives its name from Grjóti, one of eight smallholdings on the estate of Reykjavík in the 18th century. The farmstead stood here on Grjótabrekka (Grjóti Slope) at the top of Grjótagata. In the latter half of the 18th century, when wooden buildings were being constructed on Aðalstræti, a cluster of turf houses grew up on the Grjóti property.
Grjótaþorp fell into a state of dilapidation in the 20th century, due to plans for building a major road through it.
That idea was ultimately abandoned, and today all the old wooden houses have been renovated; in addition a number of wooden buildings from other districts have been rebuilt in Grjótaþorp, consolidating the old street plan.
Grjótaþorp, one of the oldest extant quarters of wooden buildings in Reykjavík, is characterised by narrow streets with detached wooden houses in small, well-tended gardens.

3

Reykjavík was founded in 874 by the Norseman Ingólfur Arnarsson.
For a long time it was a small fishing village and drading post it became the administrative centre of the Danish ruled Iceland on august the 8th 1786 and from 1843 our capital.
Reykjavík is the worlds northernmost

4
Stop 4

Harpa Concert hall and Conference center at the heart of Reykjavik is an award winning architecture and has attracted 4 million guests since its opening in may the 4th 2011.

5

Reykjavik City Hall is an impressive building on the northern shore of the pond in the center of the city. Connects nature, water and is designed to attract birdlife in the center of the city.

6
Stop 6

In the heart of Reykjavik, Öskjuhlíð Hill rises 61 meters above sea level. On the top of the hill stands the Pearl, one of the most visited attractions in Iceland. A landmark building composed of an immense glass dome that sits on six hot water tanks.

7

Hafnarfjordur, a harbor village located in the greater capital area.
It is the third most populous city in the country.
Often called the town of the hidden people and Vikings.

8
Stop 8

Bessastadir, the official home of the President of Iceland.
Bessastadir was first settled in the year 1000.
It became one of Snorri Sturluson farms in 13th century. After Snorri was murdered, Bessastadir where claimed by the king of Norway.

What's not included

Meals are not included

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.7
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Traveling to Iceland - https://www.covid.is/undirflokkar/ferdalog choose english (or another lanugage) on the website
Announcements for tourists arriving in Iceland https://www.covid.is/tilkynningar choose language on the website

Important notes

Hello we, Villi and Gulla look forward meeting you.
We will come and meet you at least 10 minutes before departure time
Warm greetings
Gulla and Villi

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Icelandic
  • Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
  • • Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air
  • Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik
By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle
230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast
150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula
240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

  • Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
  • Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
  • Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
  • Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
  • Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 4
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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