Reykjavik is the northernmost capital of the planet. Travelers from all over the world come to the southwest of Iceland to see the life of a country in which it is always cold.
In English Island - Iceland. Tourists come to its main city to get acquainted with the country and its attractions, regardless of the original purpose of the visit.
First: the Lutheran temple
Hallgrimskirkja is the largest religious building and tallest building in the country. Its height is 75 meters. The main metropolitan attraction resembles the top of a mountain according to the architect's plan.
Its construction lasted more than forty years.
Second: Monument "The Sun Wanderer"
Literally, the name sounds like a solar ship. The sculpture is located on Sebraut Road, off the Atlantic coast. As conceived by the author, the abstract work embodies the legend. Next to the Wanderer, admire the most magical sunset in the country.
According to legend, the Europeans followed the luminary in search of Mongolia. Their descendants moved to Iceland. The work is an ode to the luminary, embodied in a giant steel statue, reminiscent of a Viking ship.
Third: the museum
It shows its entire history, from the first settlements to the present day. The era of the development of Iceland and the reign of the Jarls are considered in detail. The exposition contains horn goblets, swords, and a statue of Thor.
But the most valuable exhibit is called the door of the 13th century church. There are over two thousand artifacts in this unique building. The tour can be provided by an audio guide.
Fourth: central area
In the center of the capital, souvenir shops have been replaced by private shops with the most unique goods.
There are also restaurants serving local cuisine.
Fifth: thermal pools
A visit to thermal springs is the most popular type of local recreation. There are 17 such springs in the capital. It is customary to meet with friends here.
Sources not only make it easier to understand national traditions, but also have a healing effect. It is most convenient to plan a full day visit to the Blue Lagoon complex.
Sixth: an exposition on the settlement of Iceland
The exhibition is called "Reykjavik 871 +/- 2". Presumably at this time the city was founded. The center of the exposition was the "palace" found in 2001. According to scientists, people settled in this place in the 910th and remained until the 1000th year.
In addition to one of the oldest buildings in the country, there are many household items and rituals from the Viking times on display.
Seventh: cultural center
One of the most interesting places is the local "Pearl". The building in which "Perlan" is located is used as an exhibition center, as a concert hall, and as a Winter Garden. Domestic hot water tanks are installed in the glass dome. An atrium is arranged between them.
You have to go up to the observation deck to the 4th floor to see the panorama of the capital and the surrounding area, as well as admire the artificial geyser that is on the top of the hill nearby.
Eighth: Harpa
The attraction, which opened in 2011, quickly gained the status of one of the most popular. Many events are held in Kharp. The building is recognized as a masterpiece of modern architecture. The steel structure is framed by multi-colored glass panels.
Before the completion of construction work, the structure in the form of a temporary mosque appeared in the film "Gæska: Skáldsaga". The complex hosts various events, both at the city level and internationally.
Ninth: Arbaer
Until 1957, the site of the meeting was the property of farmers. Later they became an open-air history museum. Guests are greeted by staff dressed in farm suits. Here you can see what life was like in the northernmost capital in the past.
Two dozen buildings were moved here from Reykjavik to form the main part of the museum. The periods of the city's history are covered differently, and there are many events.
Tenth: Vikin
At the beginning of the 2000s, a museum was opened in the Old Port. In the hall where raw materials were processed, there is an exhibition on the history of navigation.
To get to the pier, under which the water is splashing, you need to cross the reconstructed deck of the ferry that once ply between the countries.
Eleventh: Whale and Petrel Watching
The best place in the country to observe is the capital. Tours start from the Old Port. The boat trip provides a great chance to see sea giants jumping over the water, as well as admire the coastal petrel population.
And the way back - views of Reykjavik against the backdrop of mountains. There is nothing to do without a camera at such an event.
Twelfth: Kjarvalstadir Fine Arts Museum
The exposition was opened in 1973. It was named after the famous artist, Kjarval. Here is an exhibition of his work. The painter became famous for landscapes that are not correlated with any of the specific directions.
Exhibitions of world famous modernist artists are held in the building annually.
Thirteenth: "The Golden Ring"
A circular route leads from the capital to the southern hills of the country. Its duration is three hundred kilometers. The first stop is Thingvellir Park. It contains the canyon formed by the breakdown of two tectonic plates, and the oldest parliament in the world, that is, the Althingi.
You can also admire the Gullfoss waterfall, the Haukadalur valley with geysers, including the famous Strokkur.
Fourteenth: Videy Island
From here the settlement of the country began. Photographers and painters are attracted by the rich vegetation and the charm of tranquility.
The island is always open for tourists. And the main pearl is the Tower of Peace.
Fifteenth: Bruarfoss Falls
Near the capital and the most beautiful waterfall in the country with an incredible blue water. It is formed by water cascades converging at one point.
When hiking, it is important to remember that the road is dangerous and inconvenient, which makes it difficult to move. Therefore, it makes sense to take a sturdy spare pair of shoes with you. And the cost of the journey will be redeemed in abundance by the splendid view.
Sixteenth: climbing Mount Esja
The most popular destination for hiking tourists is the mountain near Reykjavik. The main path runs around it. You can climb to the top.
All trails are marked with difficulty levels. At the final point of the route, those who have reached them sign in the guest book or, next to the Stein stone, turn back. His trail is intended only for climbers or experienced travelers.
There are many interesting things in the capital of the Ice Land and in its environs. The street art, the Old Port area, the whale museum with the center of the northern lights, and, above all, the beautiful nature, deserve attention.
