ReykjavikTravel Guide

Iceland's tallest church, its concrete facade designed to evoke basalt lava columns — the tower observation deck is the best 360° view of Reykjavík's colourful rooftops.

Iceland's classic route covering Þingvellir National Park (where tectonic plates meet), the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall — doable independently by rental car or on a guided tour.

A geothermal spa of milky-blue mineral-rich water set in a lava field, one of Iceland's most-visited attractions — book well ahead, entry slots sell out, especially near the airport-transfer window.

A glass concert hall on the harbour with a facade of hexagonal panels inspired by Iceland's basalt columns, changing colour with the light — free to walk through even without a ticket.

A steel sculpture resembling a Viking longship on the waterfront, intended as an ode to the sun — a popular sunset photo spot with Mount Esja across the bay as backdrop.

A museum built atop hot-water storage tanks, with a real ice cave exhibit, planetarium, and a rotating rooftop viewing deck over the city.

Reykjavík's main shopping street, lined with Icelandic design shops, wool sweater stores, and the city's best concentration of cafes and bars.

Guided minibus tours drive away from city light pollution on clear, dark nights (roughly September-April) for the best aurora borealis viewing chances.

Reykjavík's working harbour, and the departure point for boats heading into Faxaflói Bay, one of Europe's more reliable spots for spotting minke whales and dolphins.

A roughly 3km hike about 45 minutes from the city to a naturally heated river warm enough to bathe in — bring a swimsuit and towel for a soak partway up the valley.