It comes as no surprise that the city earned its place in UNESCO's Creative Cities Network. Reykjavik is a place where magic happens—inspiring in its picturesque charm and captivating in its alternative spirit. A capital rich in cultural heritage, as evidenced by its museums and roster of international artists, it's also an escape destination where you'll quickly feel at ease.

History

The Bay of Smokes

In the "Landnámabók", an ancient manuscript chronicling Islande's earliest days, thick clouds of steam rising from hot springs along the coast blanketed Reykjavik when Scandinavian settler Ingólfur Arnarson discovered the region in 874. Hence its name, meaning "bay of smokes."

Before the 20th century, this small fishing village served as a trading post for Scandinavian merchants on Islande's southwestern coast. Municipal powers were gradually granted by Denmark. Reykjavik became the administrative center of the island in 1786 and later the seat of the Althingi (Icelandic Parliament) in 1843. Danish King Christian X designated it as the capital of autonomous Islande in 1918, and then of the independent Republic of Islande in 1944.

A City of Literature

In his novel "Journey to the Centre of the Earth," Jules Verne dedicates a passage to Mount Snæfellsjökull, visible from Reykjavik despite being roughly 120 km away. Islande's capital holds a rich literary heritage, both medieval and contemporary. It distinguishes itself further through its commitment to international linguistic exchange and translation initiatives. It was for these very reasons that UNESCO awarded it the title of "City of Literature" in 2011.

Reykjavik is the birthplace of several avant-garde Icelandic artists and bands, including singer Björk and progressive rock group Sigur Rós. A notable curiosity: comedian Jon Gnarr was elected mayor of the capital in 2010.

Discovering Reykjavík

The city's oldest houses rest along the edges of Lake Tjörnin, in Old Reykjavik. Influenced by Norwegian architecture, corrugated tin roofs appeared in the area starting in 1883. Today, these small painted wooden houses have been converted into apartments.

At Reykjavik's picturesque harbor, trawlers and fishermen maintain a tradition: whale hunting. Maritime excursions are available for travelers interested in witnessing this activity, though it's slowly disappearing. Near the harbor, the central Ingolfstorg square is home to the historic falconry Fálkahúsið, built in 1888.

Laugavegur, the main street once traced to serve the Laugardalur valley with its hot springs, has become the city's primary commercial thoroughfare. Shops, cafés, and designer boutiques line this semi-pedestrian street, which conceals vibrant and poetic street art around its corners.

Monuments Carrying Messages

While Hallgrímskirkja Church dominates Reykjavik's urban landscape at 74.5 meters tall, countless monuments and artworks beautify the capital—a city rooted in its Viking past yet oriented toward the future. At the center, around the Viking settlement exhibition "Reykjavík 871±2," visitors gain insight into the region's colonial history. By the sea, the Sun Voyager, or Solfar, beyond its Viking ship silhouette, symbolizes hope and freedom. On Viðey Island, northeast of the city center, the luminous Imagine Peace Tower was designed by renowned artist Yoko Ono as an ode to world peace and a tribute to her husband John Lennon.

There's More

You don't visit Islande's capital merely to admire its landscapes. The cultural life in Reykjavik is equally captivating. Beyond major institutions like the Icelandic Phallological Museum or the Museum of Sagas, lesser-known venues will surprise you. The Icelandic Punk Museum, located underground at the start of Laugavegur street, was inaugurated in 2016 by Sex Pistols frontman Johnny Rotten himself! Inside, you'll find vintage photographs, posters, soundtracks, costumes, and memorabilia tracing Islande's punk movement of the 1980s and 1990s.

Extend your underground musical journey at the 12 Tónar record store, in the city center. It's the perfect spot to discover gems of local and international pop, classical, and rock music. The shop was crowned "World's Best Record Store" in 2018 by New Music Express magazine.

If the opportunity arises, catch a performance at Reykjavik's Harpa Cultural Centre. Emotions run high in this vast concert hall with shimmering glass walls. As night falls, the city's bars and clubs, mostly located along Laugavegur street, take over to fulfill your relaxation needs.

Festival options abound, but among the most recommended events are the Reykjavik International Film Festival (September–October), the Reykjavik International Literary Festival (biennial), and Sónar Reykjavik (April).

Excursions Around Reykjavik

Reykjavik serves as an excellent base for outdoor adventures. Prime destinations include:

• Raufarholshellir lava tunnel (40 km)
• Blue Lagoon (50 km)
• The Golden Circle, comprising Geysir geyser, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park (100 km)
• Mount Snæfellsjökull (120 km)

Climate in Reykjavík

In summer, green spaces and blooming gardens enhance Reykjavik's landscape. Days last nearly 20 hours, allowing you to make the most of your activities. Winter brings snow and its own magic, complemented by beautiful holiday lights. After your walks, geothermal pools promise revitalizing baths.

That said, July and August remain the ideal period for a visit to Reykjavik.

Reykjavik is served by Keflavik International Airport, located approximately 50 kilometers southwest of the city on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Once there, ask for the "Reykjavik welcome card," which grants free access to city buses, major museums, and geothermal facilities.

Reykjavik can be explored in many ways. You can join guided walking tours following set routes, or wander alone and let the city surprise you. Buses are available if you wish to expand your horizons.

There are also car and bike rental services, not to mention famous aerial tours by helicopter or plane, offering you another perspective on the Bay of Smokes.