Reykjavik City Centre is the cosmopolitan hub of the capital of Iceland. It’s compact and easy to walk around, with low rise corrugated houses bringing a kaleidoscope of colour to the landscape. With abundant museums, galleries, cafes and parks, there is something to occupy everyone.
Icelanders enjoy spending recreational days in the city centre parks. Join with locals at Reykjavik Botanical Gardens to discover indigenous plant life or head to Tjörnin “The Pond” in the city centre. Tjörnin is surrounded by Music Pavilion Park. Popular during warmer weather, the park has a bird reserve and good access to Reykjavik City Hall. One iconic landmark of Reykjavik City Centre is Hallgrímskirkja. This towering, gleaming white Lutheran Church is the largest on the island. Those seeking to gain insight into Icelandic culture can venture to open-air Reykjavik City Museum. Staff dressed in regional costume demonstrate a variety of regional crafts to onlookers. Reykjavik City Centre is a haven for the arts, with music venues and theatres are scattered across the city. One favourite venue is contemporary Harpa Concert Hall. Located east of the old harbour, the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra regularly host their concerts here. Shopping and dining in Reykjavik can be enjoyed on and around the main shopping street of Laugavegur.
Walking in Reykjavik City Centre is the easiest way to access local attractions. Many parks, museums, shops and galleries are within a short stroll of one another. Cycling and walking trails encircle the city. Visitors preferring to travel via public transport will find the local Strætó bus service clean and reliable. Hlemmur and Lækjartorg are main bus terminals offering journeys throughout the city and its suburbs. Several 24-hour taxi companies operate, and Uber services are also available.
The name Reykjavik is said to derive from the words “Steam Cove”. The name was inspired by early settlers who witnessed hot springs in the region. It wasn’t until the 18th century that Reykjavik was developed as an urban area. The industries of fishing, sulphur mining, shipbuilding and agriculture contributed to the burgeoning economy. Today, Reykjavik is an ever-popular tourist destination. Its relaxed, laid back atmosphere, clean air and the mesmerising Northern Lights all contributing to its growth.