72 Hours In Reykjavik

It may get cold in the winter in Reykjavik, but once spring comes around everyone is happy to get out of the house and enjoy the beautiful weather. Once temperatures start to go back up, both locals and visitors enjoy getting out and seeing street performances, live music, going shopping, sitting at an outdoor café or relaxing in an outdoor thermal pool. There are so many things to see and do, which is what makes Reykjavik the perfect place to visit and celebrate the conclusion of winter.
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Must-See Sites

Make sure to include the most visited attraction in Iceland and explore The Blue Lagoon. This tourist attraction is located on a lava field and is a must-see when the sun goes down. Other popular attractions everyone must see when visiting Reykjavik include the HARPA Concert Hall, the Imagine Peace Tower, Laugardalur Park and the National Museum of Iceland. You may also want to make time to stop by Hallgrimskirkja Church, which is Iceland's tallest and largest church. While there, you can go up to the top of the 73 meter high tower, where you have will a fantastic view of the city and surrounding areas.

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure, make plans to enjoy the Golden Circle Route which is a 190-mile long route that runs by the Thingvellir National Park and the Gullfoss. The City Walk Reykjavik is a two-hour walking tour that will take you around the centre of the city. Another outdoor must-see site when in Reykjavik is the Northern Lights at night. The aurora borealis is visible during the winter months and offers a breathtaking view to those who take the time to enjoy it.

Related: The Best Cities For Outdoor Enthusiasts

Shopping

Shopping hours in Reykjavik are based on the season. However, most places within the city are open between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. during the week and offer shorter hours of operation on the weekends. The Laugavegur in Downtown Reykjavik offers visitors an open-air shopping atmosphere filled with fun, unique and trendy shops. Other popular shopping venues in Reykjavik include Kolaportid Flea Market, KronKron, Mal og Menning and Alafoss. If you are in need of warmer clothing for the weather in Iceland 66° North sells a collection of all-weather wear including jackets, fleeces, hats and gloves.

Tours

There are a variety of different tours you can enjoy when exploring Reykjavik, including self-guided and guided. The City Walk Reykjavik is a popular tour to take and will take you around the centre area of the city. Other popular tours available in Reykjavik the Northern Lights Viewing Cruise, GeoIceland Day Tours, Norduflug Helicopter Tours, Scuba Iceland, Reykjavik Bike Tours, Superjeep Day Tours and Islenski Hesturinn - the Icelandic Horse Riding Tours.

Related: Top 5 European Cruise Destinations

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Where To Stay

It doesn't matter if you are seeking luxury accommodations or just looking for a small guest house in the country; Reykjavik is home to a wide variety of accommodations that are perfect for just about anyone planning a trip to Iceland. Some of the more popular places to stay when visiting the area include the 101 Hotel, Artic Comfort, Alba Guesthouse, Center Hotel Thingholt, Hlemmur Square and Cozy Reykjavik Apartments.

Where To Eat

There is no shortage of places to dine when visiting Reykjavik. You will find everything from seafood to ethnic cuisine options, including fine dining, quick-service and snack foods. Popular places to dine when in Reykjavik include the Fish Company, Kopar, Kitchen Bar and Uno. There are many more must-dine restaurants, including Noodle Station Soup, Vegamot Bistro and Habibi Kebabs.

Getting Around

When exploring Reykjavik, you will have a number of different transportation options available to you. Most visitors get around the area by renting a car, while others prefer to bike or walk everywhere. Public transportation, limousines and taxis are also available to those needing assistance getting around.

Heather Landon (Heather Leigh Carroll) is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.
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