8 Reasons to Visit Inspiring Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the world’s most northerly capital and many people use it as a hub when visiting Iceland. The city boasts the perfect balance between cultural hub, Viking roots and untouched nature to make it one of the most treasured cities in the world. Still not convinced? The Team at Direct Car Hire Excess will reveal countless reasons why you should hop on a plane and visit Reykjavik.
Countless amazing museums
Despite being on the smaller side for a city, Reykjavik is blessed with some incredible museums, many depicting the country’s captivating history. The Maritime Museum, Einar Jonsson Museum, Viking Maritime Museum and the Art Museum should be on your itinerary.
Visit the Blue Lagoon
Just outside of Reykjavik city is Laugardalur Park. The geothermal-heated swimming pool – the Blue Lagoon – is a natural hot tub that is known for its healing powers. Enjoy the crystal blue waters whilst taking in views of the snow-covered lava rocks.
Whale watching
If you take to waters around Iceland you may see some of the different 23 types of whale calling the ocean home, including humpbacks. Whale watching trips leave Reykjavik’s old harbour and the best time of year to spot these illusive creatures is between May and September.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular locations to try and catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Whilst nothing is promised when trying to schedule in a viewing of the night-time spectacle, there are organized Northern Light tours that leave from Reykjavik.
Take in Hallgrimskirkja
The astounding Hallgrimskirkja church is one of the most impressive landmarks in Reykjavik. The steeple alone took four decades to build and stands 244ft above the street. Visitors can take in the city views from the top of the church.
Icelandic festivals
Reykjavik may seem like an unlikely location for festivals but there is a number which take place every year and appeal to a variety of different tastes. Festivals include:
- Dark Music Days
- Winter Lights Festival
- Stockfish Film Festival
- Food and Fun Festival
- Sonar Reykjavik
Go to Elf School
Known has huldufolk – translated to hidden folk – Icelanders are true believers in elves. Many households have little wooden houses in their gardens for the hidden folk and certain building work plans have been changed so as not to disturb them. You can attend Elf School in Reykjavik and learn all about the different kinds of hidden folk and listen to stories from those who claim to have had encounters with them.
Book a glacier tour
Book a glacier tour with one the companies in Reykjavik and prepare to take in some of Iceland’s 4,500 square miles of glacier. Despite the harsh terrain, the glaciers and surrounding snowy volcanic mountains are hoe to Icelandic horses. There are options to take to the glaciers by foot or cruise on the Ring Road by car in self-guided tour.
Car hire Reykjavik airport
To make life easier when visiting Reykjavik, cars can easily be hired ahead of schedule from the airport. This means you can take in Iceland’s capital and surrounding locations at your own pace. Don’t forget to invest in, excess insurance for car hire in Europe, or holiday car rental excess insurance to ensure you’re fully protected on your trip.
