Issuu

SEP/26

INFORMATION, EVENTS, MUSEUMS, AND GALLERIES IN REYKJAVÍK

NORTHERN LIGHTS ARE BACK! RIFF 2026 FILM FESTIVAL SWIMMING POOLS IN REYKJAVÍK

REYKJAVÍKS LEADING GUIDE SINCE 1982

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR THE ONLINE VERSION

Reykjavík’s Nr. 1 Attraction

A Nature Museum Unlike any Other Perlan is Iceland’s Largest Museum where visitors explore interactive exhibits, step inside a real ice cave, witness the Northern Lights, and experience volcanic power. Each display reveals our bond with nature, inspiring deeper appreciation for the world we share.

Nature Museum

Café

Restaurant

Gift Store

Highlights · 100-metre-long Ice Cave · Immersive Volcano show · Glacier exhibition · Áróra – Planetarium show · Forces of Nature exhibits · Látrabjarg Bird Cliff · 360° Observation Deck

perlanmuseum

perlanmuseumiceland

Tickets and Opening Hours

Perlan.is

WHAT’S ON

CONTENT LIST

FROM THE EDITOR

WHAT’S ON

4-73

REYKJAVÍK CITY MAP

48-49

EVENTS

74-84

ART & CULTURE

86-88

PUBS & NIGHTLIFE

91-92

WINING & DINING

95-96

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Summer in Iceland is great, but now autumn is ahead – which means the northern lights are returning! To the people who grew up in Iceland, these wispy sheets of blue and green lights that regularly stretch across the clear night sky are almost as usual as the moon and the stars, but we know that not everyone is so lucky. If it’s one of the items on your bucket list, now is the time to finally check it off, as it’s finally starting to get dark enough at night for the lights to be visible. Still, it’s not as simple as booking one ticket to see the northern lights, please. The aurora is a natural phenomenon and if you want to see the lights, conditions have to be right. First of all, you need a dark night sky. That might not sound like an issue but in the land of the midnight sun, it’s not as common as you might think. But you’re already off to a good start with your September visit. Second of all, the sky needs to be clear, since clouds will block the lights. Last but not least, you need a certain amount of solar activity spewing particles across the solar system, only for them to burn up as they enter the atmosphere. Luckily for us, those conditions come together more often than you would think. This issue of What’s On is packed with information on how to maximise your chances of seeing the elusive lights, so happy aurora hunting! Just remember to dress for the weather, it gets cold out there at night!

The What’s On Information Centre, Laugavegur 5.

WHAT’S ON — VOLUME 44 — ISSUE 09 Published by: MD Reykjavík ehf. Laugavegur 5, 101 Reykjavik. Tel.: 551-3600 Contact us: info@whatson.is Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Kjartansson Distribution: dreifing@whatson.is Tel: 830-3629

Map of Reykjavík: Friðrik Bjarnason Editor: Halldór Elvarsson Content writers: The What’s On Team Ad sales: Reynir Elís Þorvaldsson, reynir@whatson.is, Tel: 846-1799 Printing: Printall AS

WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVÍK is published monthly, covering events and happenings in and around Reykjavík. Opinions expressed in WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVÍK are those of the individual authors. While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is accurate, prices, times, dates and other information may be subject to change.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

An experience beyond compare A season of wonder awaits

Scan code and book now

WHAT’S ON

THE WHAT’S ON CHECKLIST September is a great month to be in Iceland. As the seasons turn, the longer evenings mean the awesome cosmic event that is the northern lights is coming back to town. Why not go for a nice hike near the capital while the summer lasts, then soak in a geothermal pool to soothe those tired muscles? Need a cold water reset? You’re in the right place, so why not head over and take the cold plunge at Sky Lagoon? Here are What’s On’s tips for this month: Rediscover how small you are by gazing at the immensity of the northern lights. Check out a movie at RIFF, the Reykjavík International Film Festival. Take advantage of the last warm days on the water to go whale watching! Go on a walk in Heiðmörk forest and see the leaves begin to change! Soak in the fall vibes over a cup of coffee at one of Reykjavík’s many cafés. Try some of Iceland’s luxurious geothermal spas and pools!

While you’re checking things off the list, snap some photos and tag #whatsonrvk on Instagram!

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHALE HELLO THERE Whale watching with the pros from Reykjavík & Akureyri

NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE MAXIMIZE YOUR CHANCE OF SEEING THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

WHALE WATCHING

NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS

IMAGINE PEACE TOWER

VIÐEY ISLAND

BOOK NOW

SCAN THE CODE TO FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION

ELDING.IS

+354 519 5000

Elding Whale Watching | Reykjavík Old Harbour, Ægisgarður 5c | +354 519 5000 | elding@elding.is

WHAT’S ON

What’s On

Staff Recommendations There are countless things to do in Iceland and it can often feel completely overwhelming to even start thinking about it!

Here are a few recommendations from our expert staff at the What’s On Tourist Information Offices on Laugavegur 5 and Laugavegur 54. Feel free to drop by for a chat or if you have any questions about your stay in Iceland!

MULTI-DAY TOURS

Multi-day tours in Iceland are your chance to relax and leave the planning to local travel experts. No need to worry about navigating Icelandic rural roads in winter or where to stop for a bite. Just sit back and enjoy. You can still see all the spectacular sights and choose a duration that fits, from two days to seven days with a full ring road adventure.

Find more tours like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON NORTHERN LIGHTS

The Northern Lights are in season and now is still almost the darkest time of year. Aurora Borealis is one of nature’s most spectacular light displays, captivating the imagination of those lucky enough to witness its dance across the night sky. Among the prime locations to experience this celestial phenomenon, Iceland stands out as a top destination for aurora enthusiasts.

GOLDEN CIRCLE

The small group Golden Circle tour combined with a bathing experience in the Blue Lagoon is the ultimate treat! The tour is operated on minibuses led by one of our experienced driver guides. You will have the comfort of travelling in a comfortable vehicle in a small group and enjoy the highlights of the area now known as the Golden Circle.

ACTIVITIES IN REYKJAVÍK

Reykjavík is a simple enough city to navigate and it’s mostly walkable! In our wonderful city you’ll find plenty of things to do and there are a few attractions in particular that we recommend, that allow you to quickly experience bits and pieces of Iceland. Great warm up for your explorations outside of the capital area!

PERLAN

LAVA SHOW

FLYOVER

LAGOONS

Find more tours like this at www.whatson.is

THE PLACES MOST VISITORS NEVER REACH IMMERSIVE FLYING THEATRE EXPERIENCE 4.7

FROM 5K+ REVIEWS

FLYOVER ICELAND.COM

Fiskislóð 43, 101 Reykjavík

WHAT’S ON

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ONLY HAVE ONE DAY TO SPEND IN ICELAND

Our first piece of advice if you have just one day to spend in Iceland is to change your flight and stay for at least a week. If that’s not an option, here’s what we suggest to get the most out of this unique destination in such a short time. If you just want to see the highlights

The Golden Circle is the most popular day tour from Reykjavík – and it’s easy to see why. The classic route includes three stops that also happen to be three of the most captivating natural wonders in Iceland. Tour operators may add their own twists, but you’re sure to stop at Þingvellir, a national park straddling the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates; Gullfoss, an awe-inspiring waterfall that lends its name to the Golden Circle (gull translates to gold); and the Geysir geothermal area, with an erupting hot spring guaranteed to impress. You can complete the Golden Circle in half a day (depending on the tour you book), leaving you time to squeeze more into your short stay.

If you want to visit the newest lava field

The Reykjanes peninsula continues to remind us why Iceland is known as the Land of Ice and Fire. There have been eruptions on and off on the peninsula since 2021. The eruption sites are approximately an hour drive from Reykjavík and some of the recent lava fields are accessible to people that can handle hiking for up to five hours or so. Another option is seeing the lava fields from

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON

the birds-eye by choosing a helicopter tour over the area. Seeing these freshly made lava fields first-hand is a spectacle and a reminder of nature’s fury. Please do not walk on the young lava fields, because lava takes years to fully cool down. There may be molten lava beneath the seemingly solid surface. Check out safetravel.is for the latest safety information regarding the Reykjanes peninsula.

If you want an adrenaline rush

If you want to see a glacier

If you want to hit the high seas

There’s no better way to get a feel for the latter half of Iceland’s “Land of Fire and Ice” moniker than to go on a glacier hike. Glacier hikes are relatively easy and accessible for most, especially because professional gear is provided. You get to walk on a glacier with guides who know everything there is to know about glaciers and Iceland in general. What’s cooler than that?

If you want a little luxury

What’s better than a spa day? Visiting a geothermal spa fed by Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver. At Krauma Natural Geothermal Baths, the water from the hot spring is mixed with cool glacial water for a perfect temperature. It has five hot tubs and one cold bath, plus a relaxation room, two steam baths and an infrared sauna. Alternatively, if you don’t want to leave the capital area, book the seven-step “Ritual” at the Sky Lagoon for a luxurious afternoon of soaking, steaming, scrubbing and other soothing activities.

Are you looking for a thrill? Go on a buggy ride. A buggy is a fast, sturdy and stable ATV, perfect for anyone who loves to get their blood pumping in the great outdoors – and who doesn’t mind getting a little dirty in the process. Driving a buggy through rough Icelandic terrain, over mud puddles, dirt roads or snow, makes for an exhilarating day. Marine life abounds in the water around Iceland, and you can see everything from harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins to minke and humpback whales on a whale watching tour. Tour boats depart Reykjavík’s old harbour throughout the day, cruising to the spots where sightings are most likely. Nothing beats the thrill of seeing a massive whale breach or watching one slap its enormous flukes on the water’s surface. If you have a few hours to spare before or after the cruise (or if you get seasick and a cruise is out of the question), check out the Whales of Iceland exhibition to learn more about these gentle giants.

Stop by the What’s On information centre, or send us an email, info@whatson.is, and ask the staff to help you plan an unforgettable vacation.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

It’s unlike anything else on this planet. Square Mile Magazine

Closer to the core Check it out

Only 35 min. from Reykjavík

A journey into RAUFARHÓLSHELLIR

is a

Breathtaking Experience The highlight of our Iceland trip! The “Must See” event in Iceland Reviewed on TripAdvisor

For more information and bookings: +354 519 1616

www.thelavatunnel.is

+354 760 1000 info@thelavatunnel.is

WHAT’S ON

With a subarctic climate and a tiny population, Iceland is a little different from other popular travel destinations. Desolate landscapes, extreme weather, mountain roads, geothermal areas, and the ocean can all catch the unprepared off-guard. Keep the following six safety guidelines in mind when planning your trip to Iceland.

1. Familiarise yourself with Iceland’s emergency numbers

The emergency number in Iceland is 112. You can dial it free of charge to reach emergency services like ambulances, rescue teams, and the police, and there is also a 112 app that can send your information to emergency services at the press of a button.

2. Follow updates on Safetravel.is

Icelandic weather is infamously fickle, and extreme weather is not uncommon. In wintertime, high wind speeds and snow can frequently limit visibility. Safetravel.is offers up-to-date road condition maps, weather alerts, and plenty of helpful tips and information on the best and safest way to travel around the country. There’s an app for that, too. It’s well worth downloading and checking regularly throughout your travels.

3. Be extra careful when visiting geothermal areas

Check out the Safetravel App

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

The water in geothermal areas can reach temperatures upward of 100°C. Falling in or slipping can result in severe burns. Safe paths are clearly marked, so stick to them, and never walk on ground that is steaming.

Visit www.safetravel.is

How to Travel Safely in Iceland

WHAT’S ON 4. Keep a safe distance from the ocean Sneaker waves – disproportionally large waves that encroach farther onto shore than regular waves – are frequent occurrences at the Reynisfjara and Kirkjufjara beaches in South Iceland. Sneaker waves are more powerful than people expect, and accidents have proven fatal in the past. Keep a safe distance from the water and observe nearby signs.

5. Stay on the path

Whether visiting a waterfall, a geothermal area, or hiking in the mountains, staying on the marked footpath is imperative. Respect when paths are closed and heed all signs. It’s closed for a reason, either to protect you or fragile nature.

6. Let someone know where you’re going

If you’re planning on hiking or hitchhiking, let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. You can also upload your travel plan to www.safetravel.is.

Check out the Safetravel App

WHERE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS ARE ALWAYS ON DISPLAY

MULTIMEDIA EXHIBITION

MOVIE THEATER

TOUR BOOKING

GIFT SHOP AND GALLERY

Grandagarður 2 | 101 Reykjavík open780 daily 09:00 - 21:00 Tel: +354 780 4500 Fiskislóð 53 I 101 Reykjavík I Tel +354 4500

www.aurorareykjavik.is

Iceland is a volcano – Experience it.

“Amazing Experience”

Located in Harpa Concert Hall

EXPLORE ICELAND FROM ABOVE

WHAT’S ON

7 FACTS YOU (PROBABLY) DON’T KNOW ABOUT VOLCANOES

1. Liberty, Equality, Fraternity... Volcanicity?

The 1783-4 eruption of Laki was the biggest eruption in recorded history. An estimated 42 billion tonnes of poisonous gases and dust darkened the skies. Haze from the eruption floated east as far away as India, disrupting the monsoon season and leading to drought and crop failures. The famine that hit Egypt in 1784, was a result of the eruption, and killed roughly one-sixth of its population. Back in Iceland, an estimated 20–25% of the population died from famine, and over half the livestock was poisoned or killed by giant hailstones. Food shortages contributed to social unrest across Europe and contributed to the French Revolution of 1789 that gave birth to western democracy.

2. And in second Place…

Iceland was also the site of the second biggest emission in recorded history: the 2014 eruption of Bárðarbunga. In just 6 months, Bárðarbunga produced enough lava to cover the island of Manhattan - 85km2.

3. Enter the Volcano

In Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth, the heroes climb down a crater on the Snæfellsnes peninsula to find vast oceans filled with extinct prehistoric creatures. While an encounter with a herd of mastodons is unlikely, a trip to Þríhnúkagígur (Thrihnukagigur) still feels pretty Jules Verne. Þríhnúkagígur is the only volcano in the world

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON

where you can descend into the magma chamber. Discovered in 1974 and opened to the public in 2012.

million years ago, our volcanoes would have been terrorising dinosaurs somewhere in Canada.

4. New Earth

7. Iceland has had volcanic eruptions every year since 2021

Surtsey, Iceland’s most southern point was formed by a volcanic eruption at the bottom of the ocean and emerged from the water on November 14, 1963. It was immediately granted protection by law, and to this day, only scientists are allowed to go there, and even they have to get special permission. This means that we have been able to monitor how life settles on a brand-new land from the beginning, which has, of course, been invaluable to scientists.

5. SuperFresh Lava

The island has somewhere between 150-200 volcanoes, split into different volcanic systems. About 30 different systems are still considered “active” in Iceland, and 13 of them have erupted since the Viking Settlement in 874. The current “wave” of eruptions began in Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes peninsula in 2021. Geologists believe this current phase could last decades, if not centuries - a powerful reminder of nature’s might!

Iceland has a third of the world’s fresh lava. ‘Fresh’ is a relative term that may need defining. When discussing Arctic Char, it’s best measured in hours. In geological time fresh lava means lava that’s less than five hundred years old. Iceland is full of these ‘Here’s one I prepared earlier’ landscapes offering snapshots of geological time and processes.

6. Icelandic volcanoes are on the move!

Due to changes in on the tectonic level of the earth, Iceland’s volcanoes are actually moving east. Veeeeeeeery slowly. If you visited Iceland 20 million years ago, the volcanoes would all have been situated in the West Fjords. Fifty million years ago, during the Eocene epoch, you would find our volcanoes living happily in Greenland, and 70

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Visit the Lava Centre

Are you curious about the latest eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula? Learn more about the activity near Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon at Lava Centre

More info and tickets at lavacentre.is

09AM - 05PM every day.

Lava Volcano Exhibition Austurvegur 14, Hvolsvöllur - South Iceland

WHAT’S ON

101 Reykjavík Crash Course

WHAT IS IT?

101 is the postal code of Reykjavík’s downtown area. However, 101 has gained some deep-rooted cultural connotations over the years. It’s a way of life. In the eternal struggle between city life and country life, 101 Reykjavík has become synonymous with the intellectual, artistic type who sips lattés and wears scarves.

WHY IS THAT?

Well, the centre of Reykjavík has a history of being home to people that like to think they know more than the rest of Iceland. Not only have the rulers of Reykjavík and Iceland always lived and worked there, but some of Iceland’s oldest and most respected schools are also there, including the University of Iceland. Hallgrímur Helgason’s book 101 Reykjavík (and the movie based on the book) also helped to solidify the reputation of 101-dwellers as hopeless dreamers that never do an honest day’s work and spend their nights partying. You’ll have to decide if that’s a negative or positive stereotype.

HOW IS IT?

As the heart of the Icelandic capital, 101 has plenty of things to see, do, eat, and drink. It’s also ripe with historical buildings, museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants and boasts the highest café-to-building ratio in all of Iceland. If you’re staying in Reykjavík, you must visit 101 Reykjavík. In fact, you could have a perfectly nice vacation (or a life) never leaving 101 Reykjavík at all.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

The Northern Lights are back Towards the end of August, it gradually starts to get dark at night again. Luckily, that means that the northern lights are back. They never really left, they were just drowned out by the midnight sun. Seeing the northern lights is a sublime experience, and we recommend seeking them out while you are in Iceland. The phenomenon is caused when solar flares interact with the earth’s magnetic field about 80 miles up. It’s sometimes called the ‘solar wind,’ which moves like a wisp of smoke caught in

a slow draft. Their movement might seem familiar, but the scale is so vast and unlike anything else that it’s… well, it’s hard to put into words. Better to see for yourself. The northern lights aren’t a reliable attraction, and seeing them can be a matter of being in the right spot at the right time. It’s not all down to luck, however, as there are a few things you can do to maximise your chances of seeing the ethereal lights.

Different ways to see the northern lights: Going by coach: Cheap and effective. A northern lights tour by bus or minibus is a good way to see the lights if you’re not too concerned about being surrounded by a lot of people and simply travelling by bus. Perhaps not the best time if you don’t see anything – but it’s the cheapest option to see the lights, and it gets the job done.

Going by boat: A great experience regardless of lights. Going by boat is a very good choice for those who want to ensure they get something out of their tour even if no lights are found. Being out at sea and viewing the city lights from the water is in itself a great experience.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Top 8 tips for the northern lights

1 GET OUT OF TOWN

The city lights block the northern lights!

2 MAKE SURE IT’S DARK

Daylight and northern lights don’t go hand in hand!

3 MAKE SURE THE SKY IS CLEAR

The northern lights appear way above the clouds!

4 GIVE IT TIME AND BE PATIENT!

The northern lights don’t come out by order – be patient and you might get lucky!

5 SIGHTINGS CAN NEVER BE GUARANTEED

So we’d recommend a tour that includes some great activity as well as northern lights hunt – so you won’t feel disappointed!

6 WEAR SOMETHING WARM

It can get seriously cold, especially when the sky is clear and you’re waiting for a long time.

7 KNOW YOUR CAMERA!

Taking photos with a flash won’t work. Ever. A tripod and long exposure are your friends!

8 ENJOY IT!

Lie down on the ground. Look up. Enjoy!

Going by super-jeep: Exclusive and thrilling. Going on a hunt for the lights with a specially modified superjeep is a thrilling experience that’s fun and exciting. Sights can of course never be guaranteed, but the off-road action of a superjeep makes for a great adventure, the lights are just an added bonus.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Book your northern lights tour now online or at the What’s On tourist information centre, at Laugavegur 5.

NORTHERN LIGHTS PHOTOGRAPHY

DOs AND DON'Ts

DO have a relatively good camera with you that allows for easy and quick change of settings. DON’T rule out taking a photo on your phone’s camera. DO have your ISO set to at least 800 and your aperture as low as it goes. DON’T forget your tripod. However little you think you move while waiting for your camera to take your picture, believe me, you always move and it’s enough to make your photos blurry. DO keep your shutter speed anywhere between 5 to 30 seconds, although the optimal would be between 5 and 20 seconds (30 seconds is only for very faint lights, basically). DON’T forget to plan ahead when booking your northern lights tour- finding a stable surface on a boat is difficult, and large group tours might make your photography session more difficult. DO consider using continuous shooting, so that while shooting the lights, you don’t have to keep staring at them through your camera. DON’T focus solely on your photographs and forget to be in the moment. You don’t see the northern lights every day! If you need any more information, check out www.whatson.is or stop by the What’s On information office at Laugavegur 5.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON

HOW TO READ THE NORTHERN LIGHTS FORECAST The northern lights forecast can be found on en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/aurora/, but it is a little hard to decipher if you’ve never seen it before. Our handy-dandy guide should make things a little bit easier.

Going on a tour?

There are many tours taking you far from the bright city lights for a better chance of seeing the aurora. These tours will be cancelled if there is no chance of seeing the lights. All major operators can be trusted to do this, first of all, because there is a high standard of professionalism in Iceland, but more importantly, because they lose money if they take you out needlessly – most of them promise to take you out again for free if you don’t see anything.

The Colours

White means no clouds while dark green means very cloudy. The different shades of green then mean more, or less, cloudy.

The numbers

The numbers are a combination of how likely it is for the lights to be active and how active they will be. Don’t be discouraged if the number is low, it’s actually very rare for the number to be higher than five. Also, take the scale with a grain of salt; a low number doesn’t mean that they won’t come out or won’t be impressive, and a high number isn’t a guarantee that they will be glorious all through the night.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

CMY

WHAT’S ON

BE WARM BE WELL

icewear.is

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is 29

WHAT’S ON

RIFF

REYKJAVÍK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 4 RIFF, the Reykjavík International Film Festival, offers a wide selection of new and independent cinema every year. Recognized as a top destination for international cinema, over the years, illustrious guests have included names like Jim Jarmusch, Mads Mikkelsen, Werner Herzog, and many others. RIFF is also especially exciting because its annual award, the Golden Puffin, is given to new and young filmmakers, so moviegoers know that they’re getting a glimpse into the newest frontiers of cinema. Every RIFF has a certain emphasis, highlighting a certain topic that the various film offerings approach in their own way. Past RIFFs have featured the ocean, Greenland, climate change, and many other fascinating topics, and we can’t wait to see what this year’s festival will offer!

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON Special screenings RIFF has also become known over the years for innovative and memorable screenings. For example, last year included cinematic culinary experience with the film Like Water for Chocolate paired with a menu from the restaurant at the Nordic House as well as cheese and wine tasting paired with the film Shelf Life. Icelandic viking film When the Raven Flies was paired with a performance from post-metal band Sólstafir among other special screenings. What surprising mixes will the festival hold this year? Spotlight on Portugal Every year, the Reykjavík International Film Festival shines a spotlight on a selected country by showcasing its films and inviting filmmakers from that country to attend RIFF. This year Portugal will be in Focus at RIFF 2026. Here below are a few new Portuguese feature films screening at this year’s festival. Amílcar. Directed by Miguel Eek. Often called the African Che Guevara, Amílcar Cabral led theanticolonial struggle in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde until his assassination in 1973. Blending archival footage with an imagined 16mm diary, this poetic documentary explores human rights, utopian ideals,

love, war, and betrayal through the lens of Cabral’s enduring vision. Two Times João Liberada. Directed by Paula Tomás Marques. A film within a film: João stars in a biopic about Liberada, a gender-nonconforming figure persecuted by the Inquisition. After the director is mysteriously paralyzed, João faces haunting dreams and struggles to honor Liberada’s story. Providence and the Guitar. Directed by João Nicolau. Traveling performers Léon and Elvira Berthelini arrive in Covarronca, where hostility forces them to spend the night outdoors with a Cambridge graduate. After finding refuge with a painter, they reveal how art and love can transform one another. Them, Fado Bicha. Directed by Justine Lemahieu Filmed over several years, this documentary follows Lila and João of Fado Bicha, a duo reshaping Portugal’s traditional fado through queer stories, activism, and music.

For more information and the full schedule, go to riff.is.

The Fish & Chips Shop is a family-run restaurant. Our fish is freshly caught on our own boat and processed in our plant, ensuring an unbroken chain of quality.   : . +

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA What does it look like? It looks like a giant white …finger. Yes. Finger. The Hallgrímskirkja church is probably the best-known landmark in Reykjavík, along with Perlan. It’s the last work of architect Guðjón Samúelsson, one of the most prolific architects of Iceland. His work usually drew inspiration from Icelandic nature in some way and Hallgrímskirkja is no exception, conjuring the mountains and glaciers of Iceland along with the iconic columnar igneous rock. Guðjón started sketching the church in 1937 and they started building it in 1945. It wasn’t completely finished until 1986, although parts of the church had been ready for a long time at that point, even consecrated so the unfinished church could be put to use. Why is there a Viking statue in front of the church? It’s thanks to the Americans, actually. They gave us the statue to commemorate the thousand-year anniversary of Iceland’s parliament, Alþingi. The statue is a likeness of Leifur Eiríksson, or Leif the

lucky, the Norse Viking that is rumoured to have been to America centuries before Christopher Columbus. It might seem strange to place a Viking statue in front of a church, but actually, it was the other way around. The statue got there in 1932, but they didn’t start building the church until 1945. Another thing about the location of the statue, it is in the heart of Reykjavík today, in front of Reykjavík’s most famous landmark, but in 1932, the churchless hill was on the outskirts of Reykjavík, most of the town’s inhabitants lived down by the pond. How do I get to the top of the tower? You take the elevator! For a small fee, you’ll be rewarded with a view to die for. Hallgrímskirkja is the second tallest building in Reykjavík and seeing the rows of the multi-coloured houses in the centre all laid out neatly like doll’s houses, and further away, the bright blue sea and mount Esja, is really something you shouldn’t miss.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Find more information and events on www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON

Sky Lagoon

A GUIDE TO

GEOTHERMAL SPAS

Hot springs, saunas, plunge pools, and steam rooms have been part of Icelandic culture for centuries. If you’re hiking, there’s no better way to soothe tired muscles and achy joints than a relaxing soak. But where to soak?

KRAUMA

Krauma is a natural geothermal spa next to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. It’s located in West Iceland, in the valley of Reykholtsdalur, a 90-minute drive from Reykjavík. Krauma has five hot tubs, one cold bath, a relaxation room, and two steam baths. The perfect water temperature is reached by mixing glacial water with water from the hot spring. When you’re in the pool, you can order drinks that are brought to you straight in the hot tubs. If you’re longing for a bite to eat after bathing, there’s also a restaurant. Both the baths and the restaurant are open daily from 11 AM – 9 PM.

SKY LAGOON

Krauma

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Just fifteen minutes from downtown Reykjavík, Sky Lagoon has become an increasingly popular alternative to the Blue Lagoon in recent years. The vibe is stylishly luxurious, and as the only bathing lagoon within the city limits, it’s also the one that’s easiest to access. A traditional herringbone turf facade gives way to an elegant and modern interior

WHAT’S ON and a great sea view from the sauna through (probably) the biggest window in all of Iceland. The spa’s experience is built around a seven-step ritual, including a cold plunge, salt scrub, sauna, cold mist, and more. After enjoying this vitalizing ritual, there’s a cafe, bar, and restaurant should the spirit move you. Booking in advance is advised.

BLUE LAGOON

The wildly popular and photogenic Blue Lagoon is located 50 minutes west of Reykjavík and 20 minutes from Keflavik airport. It all started in 1981 when people started bathing in the curious turquoise-coloured run-off pools of the Svartsengi geothermal power station. The Blue Lagoon is located on an 800-year-old lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula and is so popular that reservations are required. The water, a combination of fresh and seawater from the nearby geothermal plant, is about 98 degrees, slightly cooler than your average hot tub. There are grottoes, steam rooms, and several on-site restaurants (one which recently won a Michelin star), so spending at least a half-day at the lagoon is recommended.

HVAMMSVÍK

Hvammsvík is situated in the middle of Hvalfjörður, a historic fjord in the southwest of Iceland. The bathing spot is right on the water, with rustic pools overlooking the surrounding farmland and the sea. Hvammsvík is only a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík city centre and an easy drive to many of Iceland‘s biggest attractions, such as the Golden Circle, Glymur, Þingvellir, Esjan, and many more. The spa offers 8 geothermal pools built by the sea, and tough ones can prepare for a cooling polar plunge in the ocean! They are open 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM year-round. You will also find a bistro and accommodation, and there is a direct bus transfer that can take you from Reykjavík to Hvammsvík. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance!

is a geyser, bistro, and a beautiful geothermal area. During the summer, the Secret Lagoon is open daily from 10 AM - 8 PM. During the winter, it’s open daily from 10 AM - 7 PM.

FONTANA

After renovations the Fontana Geothermal Baths has opened again. Fontana is at the heart of the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most popular tourist route, and invites visitors to experience the healing power of natural geothermal springs that locals have embraced since 1929. The new and improved facilities will feature a steam room built directly above a geyser, improved locker rooms, a new sauna, and baths that extend into Laugarvatn Lake, connected but varied in depth, size, and temperature. Next to the spa, there is a geothermal bakery where they bake their bread using the natural heat from the earth! Fontana is open every day year-round. In the summer, it’s open from 10 AM - 9 PM, and in the winter from 11 AM - 9 PM.

LAUGARÁS LAGOON

Laugarás Lagoon is the newest wellness attraction along Iceland’s famed Golden Circle. It offers an unmatched geothermal experience surrounded by breath-taking nature. Laugarás Lagoon is a twostory oasis designed for ultimate relaxation, offering a variety of bathing experiences surrounded by the region’s natural beauty. For more information, check out the link or visit the What’s On Information Centres on Laugavegur.

SECRET LAGOON

Created in 1891, Secret Lagoon – known in Icelandic as Gamla Laugin (the old pool) – is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland. It was abandoned for years but was renovated and reopened in 2014 with brand-new showers and changing rooms. The pool is a comfortable 38-40 °C (100-104 F) and may not be as much of a secret as it once was. Located next to a spouting geyser, the Secret Lagoon is a much quieter, simpler (and cheaper) alternative to the Blue Lagoon and other geothermal baths. Nearby

Blue Lagoon

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

The Golden Circle’s newest attraction Experience the power and serenity of Icelandic nature by capping off your Golden Circle day at Laugarás Lagoon.

SOAK. SAVOR. RELAX The ÖSP Package

Lagoon access and a twocourse dining experience at Ylja restaurant.

BOOK YOUR ESCAPE

laugaraslagoon.is

Riding Riding with with Eldhestar

Would Would you you like like to to experience experience something something different? different? HORSES && HORSES HOT HOTSPRINGS SPRINGS Experience Experienceaavariety variety of of scenery sceneryand andexcellent excellent riding riding trails. Tour Tour 3C

SOFT BANKS SOFTRIVER RIVER BANKS This This isis aa tour tour for for the the experienced experiencedrider! rider! Who Who would would not not like like to to ride ride in in an an extraordinary extraordinary environment? environment? Tour Tour 3B

ICELANDIC ICELANDIC DIVERSITY DIVERSITY Get Get inin touch touchwith withIcelandic Icelandic nature natureon onhorseback horsebackand and taste tastethe thetreasures treasuresofofthe the nearby nearbysea. sea. Tour Tour 2G

GREAT GREAT VARIETY VARIETY OF OF HORSE HORSE RIDING RIDING TOURS TOURS JUST JUST OUTSIDE OUTSIDE REYKJAVIK REYKJAVIK Get Get further further information information at at www.eldhestar.is www.eldhestar.is

Eldhestar, Eldhestar, Vellir, Vellir, 816 Ölfus, Iceland Email: Tel: +354 +354 480 Email: info@eldhestar.is Tel: 480 4800 4800

WHAT’S ON

7 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT

THE ICELANDIC HORSE

The Icelandic horse is a special animal. Since the time of the settlement, Icelanders have had this unique breed by their sides, providing transportation and farm labour and inspiring the sagas and folklore. Celebrate these wonderful animals on May 1 – the International Day of the Icelandic Horse – and learn more about them below. First things first: It’s not a pony!

Yes, Icelandic horses stand, on average, 140 cm to their withers. And, yes, that is well within the parameters of a “pony” (read, anything shorter than 147 cm). But they’re horses, plain and simple, because, well, Icelanders say so. Squat, muscular, and built to withstand the elements, the Icelandic horse is the embodiment of how Iceland likes to view itself: small but mighty.

They’re very friendly

The Icelandic horse has earned a reputation at

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

home and abroad for being easy-going and friendly. Like well-trained dogs. This is funny, considering how impolite some Icelanders can be – the language does not even have a word for “please.” Their temperaments can be attributed to nature, since their genetics are so protected (more on that later), or nurture since Icelanders tend to treat their beloved horses like members of the family. So, their relaxed attitudes may just be a result of the horses’ relaxed lifestyles.

They have a fancy walk

The Icelandic horse is also unique in that it is one of only a few breeds in the world that can perform five gaits (ways of walking), while other breeds can only perform three or four. The three common horse gaits are walk, trot, and canter, but the Icelandic horse can also pace and tölt. Tölt is a four-beat lateral gait that is entirely unique to the Icelandic horse. It is a sped-up version of walking, but much more impressive as the horses

WHAT’S ON lift their front legs up high, with only one hoof touching the ground at any time. Tölt is a very useful gait for Iceland’s often uneven ground, providing a steady ride. It was presumably the gentlest on the riders’ backside back when horses were the main mode of transportation. That said, not all Icelandic horses can tölt, and those that can are usually trained to do it properly. So, when you take a riding tour, be sure to ask for a horse that can tölt so you can experience this truly unique trait of the Icelandic horse.

They’re guaranteed purebred

Following an unsatisfactory attempt to crossbreed Icelandic and oriental breeds, Iceland’s Viking parliament moved to prevent the degradation of their horses’ genes by forbidding horse imports to Iceland as far back as the year 982. This is the kind of thing you can do when you live on an island. That means Iceland’s horses have been purebred for over 1000 years. As a result, there are also remarkably few livestock diseases in the country – and authorities keep it that way by even prohibiting riders from bringing their own saddles or riding boots with them to Iceland. The Icelandic horse’s forefathers first arrived with Viking settlers from the British Isles between 860 and 935 AD. While they are known ancestors of Shetland, Highland and Connemara ponies, they also have some genetic similarities to the Mongolian horse, which arrived in Scandinavia through Russia.

They can never come home again

No, Icelandic horses do not spend their days reading Thomas Wolfe. Rather, the same restrictions that prevent the import of other breeds from abroad also apply to any Icelandic horse that leaves the island. They can not return to Iceland. As a result, Icelanders participating in international riding competitions never take their best horse along

since they will likely sell it before heading home. The crème de la crème of Icelandic horses is kept in Iceland to compete domestically or breed.

They’re part of Iceland’s heritage

Icelandic horses feature heavily throughout the country’s history books. In the Book of Settlement of Iceland, chieftain Sela-Þórir established his settlement at the place where his mare Skálm decided to rest. Meanwhile, in Hrafnkel’s Saga, Njál’s Saga, Grettir’s Saga, and others, horses play important roles in fights, as status symbols, and as plot devices. For example, when the epic hero Gunnar á Hlíðarenda falls to the ground when his horse trips, he looks at his beautiful country and decides to stay rather than be outlawed, which ultimately leads to his death. In Norse mythology, the most famous equine is, of course, Óðinn’s eight-legged steed Sleipnir. Icelandic horses have the standard four legs, but it can look like eight when they are zipping along at a flying pace.

You can ride one any time

Possibly the best thing about the Icelandic horse from a visitor’s perspective is that you can ride one just about any time. Riding centres all over the country offer riding tours so visitors can experience Iceland’s uniquely beautiful nature from the back of one of Iceland’s uniquely wonderful horses. Thanks to their temperament and size, the Icelandic horse is ideal for inexperienced riders taking a shorter tour. Their smooth gaits make them comfortable for more experienced riders looking to spend a whole day in the saddle.

Book your horse riding tour on WhatsOn.is

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WELCOME TO

ICELAND’S

LARGEST

BOOKSTORE

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ICELAND’S ICONIC PUFFIN.

BOOK OUTLET

IMESR TSUH M

UP TO

80 % OFF

W SELE IDE C LOCA TION OF L IN D BOOKS IFF LAN ERENT GUA GES

WHAT’S ON

HOW TO SPEND A DAY IN

THE GRANDI AREA

Going to the Grandi area is one of the best ways to spend a day near Reykjavík’s city centre. The harbour area has undergone a transformation in the last couple of years, transitioning from an industrial area to a melting pot of food and culture. A beautiful row of white houses with aqua-coloured doors which used to be fishermen’s quarters now play host to a vast array of delicatessen shops and designer workshops.

Getting started

A great place to start out the day is at Kaffivagninn, Iceland´s oldest restaurant, founded in 1935. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. For lunch options, check out Matur og Drykkur, offering traditional Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist.

Learn something new

When you’re all fuelled up, a museum is the perfect next stop. Lucky for you, the Grandi area offers an abundance of them. In an astonishingly small radius, you can find Reykjavík’s top-notch Maritime Museum, Aurora Reykjavik: The Northern Lights Centre, Whales of Iceland (an exhibition of life-size whale models), Flyover Iceland, the Lava Show the worlds only live lava show as well as the Saga Museum, where you can experience key moments from Icelandic history.

Branch out

There are other places of interest close by, such as Þúfa (Hillock), an art piece which offers a great

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON

viewing platform for the Reykjavík harbour area. From the top, you can see the beautiful Harpa Concert Hall. The brilliant glass building stands in sharp contrast to the fish-drying hut on top of the hill, complete with fish heads hanging out to dry.

Shop till you drop

If you want to go shopping, there are a couple of neat little stores in Grandi. Close to the Omnom chocolate factory, you will find the sustainable fashion store Farmers Market which is specialised in wool clothing. There is more shopping to be done at clothing design workshops such as Kiosk and Krínólin. Do you want to leave Iceland with a book or two? Then check out Forlagið Bókabúð, the bookstore of Iceland’s biggest publisher.

Dinner alert

When it comes to dinner options in the Grandi area, we’re not at a loss. One great option is The Marshall House, a former fish processing plant that has been transformed into an art lover’s dream. As well as the fantastic Marshall Restaurant + Bar, the building houses the Living Art Museum, the Kling & Bang art gallery and the studio of the Danish/Icelandic artist Ólafur Elíasson. Grandi Mathöll, a street food hall located inside a refurbished fish factory, offers something for everyone, including Korean street food, chicken burgers, vegetable soup and fresh coffee. Feeling more like fresh Neapolitan pizza?

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Then head to Flatey Pizza, where traditional pizzas are made with simple, flavourful ingredients. Alternatively, step into Lamb Street Food next door for filling, hearty falafel or lamb wraps brimming with fresh vegetables. Why not also visit the Fish & Chips Shop, a family-run restaurant in the Grandi area, to try some authentic fish and chips? Finally, Valdís ice cream parlour is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings for delicious homemade Italian-inspired gelato and sorbet in freshly baked ice cream cones.

For more information, check out the link or visit the What’s On Information Centres on Laugavegur.

WHAT’S ON

WELCOME

TO PARADISE Bíó Paradís is Iceland’s first and only art-house cinema, located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík. We screen festival favourites, acclaimed new films, classic cult films and local Icelandic films – many with English subtitles.

We provide a warm, cozy environment for film lovers in our three-screen cinema and well-stocked bar & café. Join our legendary Party Screenings every

Friday at 9pm, or simply relax with drinks, snacks and Happy Hour every day from 5–7pm.

Internationally recognized as one of the world’s most unique cinemas: “Coolest” – Variety (2025) “Greatest” – Time Out (2026) “Breathtaking” – Financial Times (2026)

PARTY SCREENINGS IN SEPTEMBER - Every Friday at 9pm

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (1975)

ROMY AND MICHELE’S HIGH SCHOOL REUNION

Friday September 4 Sing along, dress up and join the fun with the ultimate cult classic.

(1997) Friday September 18 Friendship, fashion and 90s nostalgia in this colourful cult comedy.

THE NOTEBOOK (2004) Friday September 11 Romance with a cosy twist — bring your knitting for this special knitting-friendly Party screening

FARGO (1996) Friday September 25 Crime, dark comedy and unforgettable characters in the Coen brothers’ acclaimed classic.

ART HOUSE CINEMA & CAFÉ Hverfisgata 54, Reykjavík

SEE WHAT’S ON

bioparadis.is

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON

THE SITUATION ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA At the time of writing (19 August), the latest eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula started on 16 July and ended on 5 August 2025. While the string of eruptions that began in Iceland in 2021 first proved to be a largely harmless tourist attraction, the effect on the town of Grindavík has been a reminder to take these forces of nature seriously. Grindavík was opened to the public again on 21 October 2024 after being closed with exceptions for residents and other relevant people for over a year. Many visitors are also curious about the impact on the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal lagoon on the Reykjanes peninsula, and one of Iceland’s mostvisited tourist destinations. Since the beginning of the volcanic unrest on the Reykjanes peninsula, the Blue Lagoon has had to evacuate several times. At the time of writing, the Blue Lagoon is open, but opening times can change at a short notice due to volcanic activity. We recommend staying up to date and checking your reservation online before you go. Check for the latest updates here: bluelagoon.com/ seismic-activity

New eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula can occur with very little notice. The rest of Iceland is not affected by these events and is safe to travel. The airport in Keflavík operates normally and flights are unlikely to be affected, even in case of another eruption. Please keep yourself informed during your travels in Iceland and exercise common sense. Good resources in English are: • Daily news: ruv.is/english • Official travel warnings: safetravel.is, • Icelandic Road Administration: road.is, • The Icelandic Met Office: vedur.is • Website of the Department of Civil Protection (https://www.almannavarnir.is/english/).

safetravel.is

road.is

almannavarnir.is

vedur.is

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

passionate about ICeland "EastWest provides exceptional small group tours and private tours so you can enjoy the famous Golden Circle, the dramatic landscapes of the South coast, the breathtaking peninsula of Snæfellsnes, or the incredible Northern lights. Our driver-guides deliver travel experiences of the highest quality in a prime fleet of Mercedes-Benz Sprinters with USB connectors and onboard WIFI."

BOOK NOW! +354 792 75 00

EASTWEST@EASTWEST.IS

www.eastwest.is

5 17

4 5

6 Ko

lag

a 14

6 3

1 2

i 9

BSÍ

Check out the article Reykjavik Sights to See on pages 50-51 for more information about the places numbered here.

REYKJAVÍK CIT Y MAP i

What’s On Tourist Information and Booking Centre Locations Main areas

Sights

Tour Pick Ups

10 12

WHAT’S ON

REYKJAVÍK

sights to see

Reykjavík sightseeing has something for everyone! The city is filled with things to do, places to go, and stuff to see, but some things are just a little bit more important than others. Check out the map in the centre of the magazine to find the exact location of these Reykjavík sights. 1

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA Hallgrímskirkja church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. It’s the largest church and the 6th tallest architectural structure in Iceland. The church tower offers a fantastic view of the city. It’s named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Petursson, author of the Passion Hymns. The architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, designed it to resemble the basalt lava column flows of Iceland’s landscape. Construction started in 1945 and was finished in 1984. PERLAN Standing at 25m, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings. Built on top of the city’s hot water tanks, Perlan is known for its unique architecture. Inside Perlan, you can visit Wonders of Iceland, an exhibition spread over multiple levels. A visit to a real ice cave, planetarium shows, exhibitions on Iceland’s history, glaciers, volcanoes, and water, and a spectacular 360° viewing platform are all included in a ticket. On the top floor, there is a restaurant and coffeehouse for guests in need of refreshment. Surrounding Perlan is the Öskjuhlíð area, one of the many green spaces in Reykjavík, perfect for a walk on a sunny day. TJÖRNIN Tjörnin (The Pond) is the heart of the city centre and offers some of the most amazing views in Reykjavík. There is no better place in the city to enjoy a beautiful sunset, and you can watch or feed a huge variety of birdlife that calls the lake home while you’re at it. When the lake freezes over in winter, geothermal water is pumped in to defrost an area for the birds and feeding them is a popular family pastime all year round. Those who can handle the cold take to the lake on ice skates. AUSTURVÖLLUR When the sun is shining, Austurvöllur is the place to be. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants, this public square is a popular spot for locals to dine outside, soak up some sunshine or recline on the grass with picnics. In fact, whatever the season, Austurvöllur is the place to be. It’s used for celebrations on holidays, and in December, the city’s biggest Christmas tree is located there. Due to its proximity to The House of Parliament, Austurvöllur is also a popular gathering spot for political protesters. At the centre of it all stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the renowned figure who is credited with leading Iceland to independence.

Check out our centerfold map for the locations of these sights

WHAT’S ON 5

GRANDI Just off the city centre lies Reykjavík’s old harbour area. Known as Grandi, the land was originally just a stretch of sand connecting Reykjavík to Örfirisey island but has been added to considerably in the years since. For decades, this was simply an industrial neighbourhood with fish processing plants and shipyards, but when the new harbour by Sundahöfn was built, much of the industry was moved there, leaving empty buildings in a popular area waiting to be repurposed. Now Grandi is full of life, with a food hall, popular ice cream parlour Valdís, Omnom chocolate headquarters, FlyOver Iceland, Lava Show and a lot more.

HARPA The whole 28,000m2 of Harpa stand at the edge of Reykjavík Harbour. It houses Iceland’s biggest concert hall, suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events, a conference centre with meeting facilities and in-house catering, as well as a couple of fine restaurants. Harpa also hosts promotions, plays, and public events. Harpa was designed by a Danish firm in cooperation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist, and opened to the public in 2011.

THE OLD HARBOUR Though it’s the oldest harbour in its original form, Reykjavík’s Old Harbour is no longer the busiest for freight. Instead, it’s an oft-visited area where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals, and tour operators. You will also find numerous whale watching companies willing to take you out to sea on unforgettable excursions. The area is filled with excellent restaurants (pizza, seafood, burgers, etc.) and cafés. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty, and there are plenty of interesting activities to check out.

THE SUN VOYAGER A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to downtown Reykjavík. The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and is an ode to the sun. It serves as a reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland. The Sun Voyager looks its best when the sun is setting, at whatever time that may be. The unforgettable view of the sculpture with a backdrop of the ocean and Mt. Esja is every photographer’s dream.

HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT Founded in 930 AD, Iceland’s Parliament, Alþingi, is the oldest extant parliament in the world! For centuries, the Parliament gathered in the open air (on the aptly named Þingvellir, Parliament Fields), but in recent years, the members of Parliament have met in Reykjavík. The House of Parliament is a modest classical building of hewn Icelandic dolerite, and it gives Austurvöllur square a dignified look. The Parliament garden behind the building is small but lovely in the summertime.

LAUGARDALSLAUG Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Icelanders’ favourite pastime is going swimming. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, located in Laugardalur valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, an outdoor children’s pool and a paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, a steam bath, gym, and a mini-golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day or a cold one for that matter. Right outside, you will find a hot dog stand where you can buy traditional Icelandic hot dogs.

Check out our centerfold map for the locations of these sights

WHAT’S ON

Museums in Downtown Reykjavík Reykjavík’s history reaches more than a thousand years into the past, and the city has a rich cultural heritage. What better way to learn more about Icelandic culture than visiting the city centre’s museums?

NÝLÓ - LIVING ART MUSEUM

The Living Art Museum, or Nýló, is an artist-run museum and exhibition space with the aim of preserving and exhibiting contemporary art. Founded by artists in 1978, the museum presents a strong exhibition programme and is a venue for various events.

THE REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM

Located inside a former fish-freezing plant, the Reykjavík Maritime Museum hosts the permanent exhibition Fish & Folk - 150 Years of Fisheries which showcases the historical importance of fishing for the Icelandic nation.

5 8

3 6

THE REYKJAVÍK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

The Museum of Photography’s main objective is to present both historical and contemporary photography in an artistic, social and cultural context, as well as to nurture public and scholarly interest in photography. Photos from studios, industrial, advertising, press, landscape and more.

Check out our centerfold map for the locations of these sights

WHAT’S ON 4

THE REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM

The Reykjavík Art Museum has three locations: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir and Ásmundarsafn. Hafnarhús serves as the museum’s branch of contemporary art, through rotating exhibitions. Kjarvalsstaðir is devoted to one of Iceland’s most influential painters, Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval. Ásmundarsafn is the former home and workshop of sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson.

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at the National Museum of Iceland. The museum was established in 1863, and gives an insight into Iceland’s cultural heritage from the time of settlement up to modern times.

THE HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION

In 2001, archaeological remains of the settlementera hall were excavated, which was inhabited from 930-1000. North of the hall, two pieces of a turf wall were found, which were built before 871. These findings are the oldest relics of human habitation found in Reykjavík.

The exhibition Treasures of a Nation in the House of Collections throws light on the invaluable collections of the National Gallery of Iceland; the art reflects the zeitgeist of each era, for art is in constant dialogue and renewal, in step with society itself.

EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM

THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

Established in 1884, the National Gallery boasts an art collection that mainly comprises 19th- and 20th century artworks. The Gallery possesses many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries.

A museum with indoor and outdoor exhibitions dedicated to the work of Einar Jónsson Iceland’s first modern sculptor (1874-1954) who offered all of his works as a gift to the Icelandic nation.

Check out our centerfold map for the locations of these sights

Get more information on arts and culture on WhatsOn.is

WHAT’S ON

Get Out of Town There’s more to Iceland than Reykjavík Reykjavík is a great city, and we wholeheartedly recommend spending some time there, just not all your time. Iceland is at its very best during these short summer months, and you simply need to leave the city for a while and take it all in.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

HOW TO TRAVEL

There are a few ways to get out of town, depending on your preferences. If you’re unfamiliar with the country and want to learn more, taking a guided tour might suit your needs. Reykjavík tourism companies offer tours almost all over the country, some short enough to fit into your afternoon, others longer, so just figure out where you want to go and book your trip. If you prefer a little more freedom to explore on your own, renting a car is a comfortable option, allowing you to travel at your own pace. Just be careful: conditions in Iceland might be different from what you are used to, even in summer. Be sure to check out Icelandic driving regulations and check the weather forecast before you set off. If driving on your own feels a little too risky, you can always take the bus. The city bus company, Strætó, will take you to some of the larger towns around the country. Other bus companies will take you to great hiking spots or all the way around Iceland.

WHAT’S ON

WHERE TO GO

Almost wherever you go, you’ll find natural wonders, lovely little towns and all the untamed Icelandic nature you can imagine. Certain regions do have their specific charm, however, so depending on your needs and preferences, here are some destination suggestions. One of the most popular destinations in Iceland is the south coast. This stretch of land between the coast and the mountains is an exercise in contrasts. Verdant farming communities meet jet-black sand beaches, towering glaciers cover imposing volcanoes, and still and clear lakes reside next to thundering waterfalls and erupting geysers. If you don’t have the time to stray too far from the city, exploring the Reykjanes peninsula might be just up your alley. Just a short drive away from the city, this area has still lakes, lava fields, and colourful geothermal areas as well as charming little fishing villages. The Snæfellsnes peninsula is often described as a microcosm of Iceland. Black beaches, hot springs, charming fishing villages, and the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier overlooking it all are sights that are not to be missed! If you have the time (at least four to five days), you can even drive all the way around the country. Route 1, or the Ring Road follows most of the coastline of Iceland and connects most of the major towns.

WHAT TO DO

If you have a car, you might just want to find a town to stay in and explore the surrounding region. During the summer season, many towns host festivals that are well worth checking out. Some of the big festivals include Fishermen’s Day at the beginning of June and Icelandic National Day on June 17. If you’re feeling active, go hiking in Iceland at the end of June. Not only is there a chance of good weather, but popular hiking trails in the highlands are only open in summer. The most popular multiday hike is the Laugavegur hiking trail, which usually opens in late June, but if you can’t wait that long, hiking up Mt. Esja or the hot spring-filled Reykjadalur valley are great day trips close to Reykjavík. If you’re simply keen to explore the nature and landscapes of Iceland, driving around the country, stopping for hikes and picnics, is a great way to spend your days. Look for the sign with a square with looped corners indicating interesting spots ahead.

If you want to be prepared for your trip, contact the What’s On office on Laugavegur and get some advice!

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Raw Nature

Family Fun

Hot Tubs & Sauna

Bar & Restaurant

Rafting on the Golden Circle since 1985 Daily Departures at 11AM and 15PM from May to September

ARCTIC RAFTING

ArcticRafting.com +354 486 8990 info@arcticrafting.is

ARCTIC RAFTING

Reykjavík Geothermal Pools

Part of Icelandic Culture

Relax in one of Reykjavík’s many geothermal pools and experience Iceland’s swimming culture, recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage

WHAT’S ON

GO SWIMMING! Whether you visit a thermal pool in Reykjavík, a luxurious spa, or a natural pool in the countryside, swimming in Iceland is a unique experience. Nothing beats relaxing in warm water while breathing in fresh cold air.

BEST KID-FRIENDLY POOL

Swimming pools are one of the most kid-friendly activities you can find in Iceland, so the short answer is – all of them! To be more specific, the centrally located Sundhöll has a great outdoor area, and so does Vesturbæjarlaug, but Árbæjarlaug is a hidden gem, a perfect stop if you’re going out of town anyway, and pairs well with a visit to the Árbær Open Air Museum.

BEST POOL TO CHAT WITH LOCALS

Locals love going to the pool, and chilling in a hot tub is a good way to connect to Icelanders. Often, Icelanders meet in the pool and use this time to chat and catch up on the latest developments. Good options for hanging out with locals are Vesturbæjarlaug, Seltjarnarneslaug, and Árbæjarlaug pools.

BEST POOL FOR SERIOUS SWIMMERS

Vesturbæjarlaug

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Laugardalslaug is Reykjavík’s biggest pool and the best one for a long swim. It’s an Olympic-size swimming pool, used for recreational swimming,

WHAT’S ON

Laugardalslaug

exercise, and competitions. The big indoor pool is also used for training and competitions. Laugardalslaug also offers plenty of hot tubs, cold tubs, and steam baths for relaxation after a healthy swim, and to top it off, a fitness centre and spa are located next to the pool.

BEST POOL FOR A DAY TRIP

Basically every town in Iceland has its own pool. Almost all of them are beautifully located next to mountains and overlooking fjords and the ocean. If you plan to make a day tour out of your pool visit, head to the Westman Islands and visit Sundhöllin Vestmannaeyjar on Heimaey island. The ferry ride out to the island is an adventure, and there is a great indoor pool, a large outside pool with hot tubs, and cool waterslides.

BEST LUXURY SPA

In need of pampering? You’ve heard of the Blue Lagoon with its milky blue waters and mud masks, but did you know a brand-new spa opened just 10 minutes by car from downtown Reykjavík? Located at the edge of the bay of Kópavogur, the pool offers amazing coastal views. Sky Lagoon boasts a modern approach to traditional Icelandic swimming culture, making it the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink, socialise, and soak in the sun.

SWIMMING POOLS IN REYKJAVÍK OPENING HOURS

More info on www.sundlaugar.is

Árbæjarlaug (Tel. 411 4200) Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-21 Dalslaug (Tel. 411 5650) Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-21 Grafarvogslaug (Tel. 510 4600) Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-21 Laugardalslaug (Tel. 411 5100) Mon - Thu: 6:30-22 • Fri - Sun: 8-21 Vesturbæjarlaug (Tel. 411 4200)

Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-21

Breiðholtslaug (Tel. 557 5547) Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 9-21 Klébergslaug (Tel. 566 6879)

Mon - Thu: 9-22 • Fri: 19-19 • Sat - Sun: 11-18

Sundhöllin (Tel. 411 5350) Mon - Fri: 6:30-22 • Sat - Sun: 8-21

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

RELAX ENJOY EXPERIENCE

Book online at earthlagoon.is

WHAT’S ON

6 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ICELANDIC WOOL

It’s very old

While Iceland’s horses get all the attention for being unique to the island, modern day Icelandic sheep are also direct descendants of the livestock that arrived with settlers in the 9th century. As such, they boast some characteristics that have long since disappeared from their relatives in Europe. Like their ancient forefathers, the Icelandic sheep are double coated, with an outer layer of long, coarse hair called ‘tog’ that repels water, and a short, soft and fluffy undercoat called ‘þel’, which is a perfect insulator. This is a big part of what makes Icelandic wool – and the garments made with it – so special.

… but it’s not old fashioned

There have been innovations in Icelandic wool. For instance, the two coat layers used to be separated by hand (a very labour-intensive process) and used for different purposes. In the 1920s, however, quicker new methods of processing the wool were created and Iceland’s famed ‘lopi’ – consisting of the two coats spun together to produce strands that are simultaneously light, warm, tough and waterproof – was born.

It’s colourful

Icelandic sheep have always been bred in a variety of colours, and some farmers even pride themselves on preserving specific colours. The result is Icelandic wool being produced in as many colours as there are sheep, with the most common

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON

colours being black, white, various shades of brown and grey. Besides these classic “sheep colours”, lopi can also be found dyed in every colour of the rainbow.

do not recommend trying indoors or while wearing the lopi in question – is that it doesn’t burn. It may light up if you put it right in a flame, but it will selfextinguish once you take it out. Amazing!

It’s great for knitting

It’s versatile

That double coat mentioned above gives lopi its dual-fibre structure, making it perfect for knitting garments that are warm, waterproof and light. Whether you intend to knit a scarf or try your hand at the intricate patterns of a famous Icelandic lopapeysa, lopi is ideal. Not only is it beautiful, it’s also easy to knit with (the loose-spun wool can be twisted back together if broken) and it felts easily. As any Icelandic child will tell you, lopi is scratchy right against the skin, so it’s best used for outer layers of clothing – unless you get your hands on some lambswool, that is.

It’s magical stuff

Icelandic wool looks great just about any way you knit it. And if you don’t knit yourself, just check out the range of products Icelanders have made with their wool as proof of its versatility – and its beauty. You can find everything from simple hats and mittens to the colourful scarves and blankets by Vík Prjónsdóttir. Of course, the most popular wool garment in Iceland is the Lopapeysa, the classic sweater with intricate and unique patterns around the yoke. An infinite range of classic lopapeysur can be found at the Icelandic Handknitting Association, while Farmer’s Market boasts a fashion-forward take on the classic.

By “magical” we mean it’s self-cleaning, which is just about as close to magic as it gets for any parent trapped in an endless laundry cycle. Lopi garments need to be hand-washed, but it almost never needs to be washed. Thanks to the structure of the hair fibres, lopi doesn’t hold bacteria like cotton or synthetic materials do. So the only time you might need to wash your woollens is when they get stained (which is also rare, since they’re fairly waterproof). So just air them out and call it a day. Another of lopi’s magic tricks – one we absolutely

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON

Nói Albinói

ICELANDIC MOVIES TO WATCH BEFORE COMING TO ICELAND

Once upon a time, there were no Icelandic films. We know, it’s shocking. Things have changed though, now there are lots of them, and good ones, too! Read our recommendations of movies you should watch before coming to Iceland. UNDIR TRÉNU (2017)

d. Hafsteinn Gunnar Sigurðsson Icelandic films tend to be heavy on angst and Undir trénu (Under the Tree) is filled to the brim with it. It’s about neighbours fighting over a tree that is causing shade. It doesn’t sound too crazy, and even relatable to some, but things get pretty insane quickly and we, the audience, never really know what will happen next. The shining star of the film is Edda Björgvinsdóttir, a celebrated Icelandic actress mostly known for comedy who proves a deft hand at drama as well. She manages to portray a character that is simultaneously an insane caricature of a hostile old lady, and a true-to-life portrait of someone you know.

HRÚTAR (2015)

Undir trénu

Oddur

d. Grímur Hákonarson Two brothers live on farms next door to each other. The only problem is that they’ve been estranged for years. Dark comedy Hrútar (Rams) is a triumph for everyone involved, especially famed comedian Sigurður Sigurjónsson who portrays one of the brothers, and it made people really fall in love with the idea of stubborn old kooks living in misery somewhere out in the countryside.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Magical attraction in the heart of Reykjavík

REYKJAVÍK Opening Hours

Sunday to Thursday 12:00-23:00 Friday and Saturday 12:00-00:00)

Laugavegur 4-6, 101 Reykjavik

/MagicIceReykjavik

YOUR LOCAL TOURIST INFORMATION IN REYKJAVÍK SINCE 1982

Since 1982, What’s On in Reykjavík has been the trusted source for tourist information in Iceland. Please feel welcome to visit our tourist information and booking centres in downtown Reykjavík. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to assist you to make the most of your trip.

Main location at Laugavegur 5, 8:30am - 9pm | Laugavegur 54, 10am - 8pm www.whatson.is | +354 551-3600 | info@whatson.is

WHAT’S ON SVAR VIÐ BRÉFI HELGU (2022)

d. Ása Helga Hjörleifsdóttir This romantic drama is based on a Bergsveinn Birgisson novel and tells the story of a forbidden love affair in a remote fjord in Iceland. Two unhappy couples, Bjarni & Unni and Helga & Hallgrím learn how to deal with ecstatic joy and crushing sadness when Bjarni and Helga start an affair and try to conceal it from the tiny community. When the relationship becomes common knowledge, and Helga wants to move to Reykjavík, Bjarni is forced to choose between his love for his wife, his lover, and the countryside.

MÝRIN (2006)

d. Baltasar Kormákur You might not think that Iceland has too many murders, and you would be right. Instead, we have books about murder mysteries, and the most famous series is about detective Erlendur and his adventures solving crimes in modern Reykjavík. The first, and only, film adaptation of an Erlendur story is Mýrin (Jar City) and by golly, it’s good. Ingvar E. Sigurðsson was born to portray the permanently-resentful Erlendur. In fact, most of the casting is pitch-perfect, and the result is a fantastic Nordic crime tale.

DJÖFLAEYJAN (1996)

d. Friðrik Þór Friðriksson During World War II, the UK, and then the US, occupied Iceland and built over 7,000 steel huts – barracks. When they left, the barracks were used as housing for less-fortunate Icelanders, who lived in terrible conditions. Djöflaeyjan (Devil’s Island) takes place in the 1950s in one of these neighbourhoods. Baddi goes with his mother (who married a US soldier) to America. When he comes back to Iceland, you better believe that he has been turned into a greaser (like those guys in the film Grease). Hilarity and drama ensue.

101 REYKJAVÍK (2000)

d. Baltasar Kormákur In many ways, Hlynur, the protagonist of 101 Reykjavík, is a loser. And by “many”, we mean “all.” He lives with his mom in a small, cramped, apartment in downtown Reykjavík and spends most of his time at the local bar. When his mom brings home a girlfriend, things get complicated, especially when the girlfriend and Hlynur have sex. Most of the film is about the daily struggles of a suicidal man that does nothing, but as the story progresses, so does Hlynur. Will he find his place in the world? You have to watch the movie to find out! Also, yes he does.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

Hrútar

KARLAKÓRINN HEKLA (1992)

d. Guðný Halldórsdóttir Karlakórinn Hekla (The Men’s Choir) is one of those movies that everybody (in Iceland) has seen at some point. It’s about a men’s choir in a small town outside of Reykjavík. One day, the most beloved member of the choir, Max, has a heart attack and dies, so the remaining choir members do the most logical thing possible: they decide to have a statue of him raised in his birth town in Germany. The group (most played by noted 80s comedians) decide to head to Germany, accompanied by Max’s girlfriend, and everything goes as well as you might expect.

NÓI ALBÍNÓI (2003)

d. Dagur Kári The bluest hues you will ever see on the big screen! Nói, the albino, is a socially inept smart-arse living in a remote fjord in Iceland (most fjords in Iceland are remote). He dreams of a better life elsewhere but escaping the fjords can be a difficult task. He falls for a girl from the city (there is one city in Iceland) and sees a chance of a better future with her, but he is socially inept so, you know. The film is funny and all around a great watch.

LAMB (2021)

d. Valdimar Jóhannsson Unlike the similarly named Rams, Lamb (Dýrið) contains very little to laugh at. This folk-horror film takes place on a farm where María and her husband Ingvar discover a lamb-human hybrid. Instead of being horrified, the couple adopts the creature and raises it as their own child. When Ingvar‘s brother Pétur arrives for a visit, the farm becomes the site of jealousy, secrets, and betrayal. But this darkness is nothing compared to whatever is haunting the farm from the shadows. As disturbing as it is brilliant – the film was co-written by beloved Icelandic writer Sjón – this is a movie experience you aren‘t likely to forget.

WHAT’S ON

BEST WHALE WATCHING SPOTS AROUND ICELAND

Do you want to have a whale of a time? Then go on a whale safari while you’re in Iceland! The waters around Iceland are the natural habitat of these gentle giants, so this is the perfect place to spot them. Baleen whales are a migratory species, and most travel long distances to tropical waters in winter and back to polar regions in summer. The best season for whale watching in Iceland is, therefore, between April and October. Going on a whale watching tour and actively searching for whales is an exciting and unique experience! Whale watching in the Capital Area

You don’t have to travel far to go on a whale safari, as Reykjavík offers good options for whale watching. Different whale watching companies have regular departures from the Old Harbour area. White-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises are seen year-round in Faxaflói bay, a large bay next to Reykjavík, stretching from Reykjanes to Snæfellsnes. In the summertime, there are regular sightings of humpback whales and minke whales. You can choose to go on a bigger boat with a refreshment bar, or on a small RIB. The bigger boats have snug inside areas that offer shelter from bad weather, but the small boats have the advantage that you can get very close to oceanic wildlife. At the ticket offices, you can ask for complimentary

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON motion sickness pills, but don’t worry, tours are cancelled if the waves are too high.

Whale watching outside the Capital Area

You can also see whales outside of the Capital Area. In wintertime, the fishing town Grundarfjörður is where it’s all at. The bay is filled with herring feeding on phytoplankton. Now, seeing breaching herring is probably not the reason why you travelled to Iceland. However, this herring aggregation attracts all kinds of cetaceans, like dolphins, porpoises, and most importantly, killer whales! Can you think of anything more spectacular than seeing a pack of killer whales swim by? There are also excellent whale watching opportunities in North Iceland. The town Húsavík is also known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, because of the many whales in its bay, Skjálfandi bay. Humpback whales, blue whales, minke whales, pilot whales, and sperm whales are often sighted. Because of the deep waters in the bay, there is also a higher chance of seeing rare species like the basking shark, the northern bottlenose whale, and the beluga!

Combo tours – whales and puffins

In summer, puffin colonies are found all around Iceland. The first small flocks arrive in April, and the last ones leave in September, but the best months to see puffins are between May and August. Most whale watching companies offer whale and puffin combination tours. For puffin spotting, it’s best to be on a small boat and to bring binoculars. Puffins are tiny, and the closer you can get to them, the better the experience will be! These puffin tours are possible from Reykjavík. Just off the coast of the city, puffins breed each year on three small islands. Next to puffins and whales, common sights during these tours include arctic terns and the great skua.

Whales of Iceland exhibition

Whales of Iceland is an exhibition in the Grandi area of Reykjavík. It showcases 23 man-made life-size models of whale species that occur in Icelandic waters, like a 25m long blue whale and a full-size sperm whale. It offers a great opportunity to see the actual sizes of these whales (they are even bigger than you think!) and to learn interesting facts about each whale at the same time by reading plaques and watching videos. Educational and fun!

Book your whale watching tour on WhatsOn.is

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

COMMON SIGHTS Minke whale: a small baleen whale

measuring 7m to 8m in length, weighing between 5 to 10 tonnes. It’s black and grey, has a dorsal fin, and will live for 30 to 50 years. It’s not likely to breach, so look for its back and dorsal fin during a tour. Also called “stinky minkes” because they smell of rotten fish.

Humpback whale: a large baleen whale measuring 12m to 16m in length and weighing about 36 tonnes. It has long pectoral fins, a stubby dorsal fin, and a knobbly head. They are known for breaching, their high spouts of water, and for showing off their flukes as they go for deeper dives! White-beaked dolphin: the most common dolphin in Icelandic waters. It is 2.5m to 3m in length and weighs up to 350kg. They are often spotted in big groups, sometimes hundreds together! They love playing, jumping out of the water, and splashing about. Harbour porpoise: the smallest cetacean around Iceland. They are only 1.5m to 2m in length and weigh 55kg to 70kg. They are usually quite shy but sometimes jump out of the water and play with the whale watching boats.

WHAT’S ON

Taking the bus in Iceland If you‘re staying in Reykjavík for any period of time, you might want to get acquainted with the public transportation system, STRÆTÓ. We don’t have trains or an underground system, only our beautiful yellow public buses. They‘ll take you nearly anywhere you need to go, but you might require some help to navigate the system. If you’re looking for some tips to make your life easier on the streets of Reykjavík, here’s how to take the bus in Reykjavík.

pools, but Strætó has discontinued these as of March 2022. Cash payments are also no longer available, from June 2025. You can pay for your fare through an app called Klapp. Using only your smartphone, you can pay for one-time fares for individual rides, purchase Klapp 10 (10 tickets), or buy a one-month or a one-year pass. It should be noted that you will need to use data or WiFi to make this transaction and use it on the bus.

Buying a ticket

Taking the bus outside the city limits

As of this writing, a single adult ticket costs ISK 690. Children 11 years and younger are free, the disabled pay 207 ISK, and seniors and children 12-17 pay 345 ISK. You can buy a ticket on the bus, with the Klapp app or a touchless card payment. Paper tickets used to be available at local stores and swimming

Like the city buses, the regional buses accept card payments. You can also pay by cash, but again, only if you have the exact amount. Prices vary depending on your destination. If you are staying in or travelling to the countryside via Strætó, the Klapp app will not work. For trips in the countryside, you can pay with debit

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHAT’S ON or credit cards on the bus, bus cards or with cash (note again: drivers cannot give change).

just in case, it does not hurt to ask the driver. They can also help you figure out when to step off the bus.

When do the buses leave?

Changing buses

The timetables can be found on the Strætó website, and each bus stop has the departure times for the buses that stop there. The Klapp app also has the departure times and will calculate your route for you. Generally, the buses start running before 7 am on weekdays (slightly later on weekends, but still before 10 am) and run until around midnight, depending on routes. When deciding which bus to take, get the route number and the terminus. While you are waiting for the bus, check to make sure you’re waiting on the right side of the street. On a little sign right next to the bus stop you’ll find the timetable for your route. Above the timetable, you will find the names of the bus stops on the way (the one you are on is specially marked) with the terminus at the end of the line. Make sure it matches the one you are supposed to take. If it does not, cross the street. When the bus arrives it will also be clearly marked with the route number and the terminus. Occasionally, the bus drivers forget to change it at the end of the line, so

If you need to change routes or get on a different bus for the full journey, you can reuse your Klappið ticket for 75 minutes. If you paid by cash, just ask for a “transfer ticket” when you enter the bus. The ticket is valid for 75 minutes, and you can show it to the bus driver when you enter the next bus. If using the Klapp app, you will also have 75 minutes to use your ticket. Simply scan the same ticket on the bus you are getting on, and it will work exactly the same. There’s also more information on the Strætó website and on the Klapp app.

Travelers should note that Hlemmur, Reykjavík’s central bus station, is closed for construction. Stay up to date with the latest route changes and more at straeto.is

Download Klappid app The official Icelandic public transport app for the capital area • • •

Search for “Klappid” in the App Store or on Google Play

Buy tickets Plan your trip Bus location in real time

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

DANISH THE ICELANDIC WAY

Jómfruin is proud to carefully combine superb Icelandic ingredients with age-old Danish heritage so that guests can enjoy a culinary experience like no other. Jómfrúin stands for quality tradition that is worthy of preservation. Lækjargata 4 | +354 551 0100 | jomfruin.is

WHAT’S ON

New in Town Laut

The Nordic House, Sæmundargata 11, Reykjavík Laut, is a new restaurant that serves Nordic cuisine from morning to night. The restaurant offers a diverse experience, from light lunches to ambitious dinner menus. The menu draws inspiration from Icelandic nature and seafood, where efforts are made to use only Icelandic ingredients, but allowed to source quality ingredients from the other Nordic countries when needed.

Helliskaffi

Hellisgerði, Hafnarfjörður A new café recently opened in the popular park, Hellisgerði in Hafnarfjörður at the outskirts of Reykjavík. Helliskaffi will be open as a café during the day, but in the evenings it will offer refreshments with an emphasis on Icelandic and Scandinavian food with a tapas twist. The goal is to create a cozy gathering place where guests can sit down, enjoy the garden, and relax in a quiet environment.

Ísfabrikkan

Lækjartorg Square A new ice cream shop recently opened in downtown Reykjavik, situated in the iconic tower at the center of Lækjartorg square. Specializing in Italian-style gelato with a variety of flavors, it offers a perfect treat for a sunny day in Reykjavík.

Matur og Drykkur

Mýrargata 31 The well known restaurant, Matur og Drykkur recently moved to a new location. The new premises offer a light, artistic atmosphere where an open kitchen delivers balanced dishes, celebrating authentic flavors with bold sophistication.

Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is

Resident Room,

Hverfisgata 26 Located on Hverfisgata, Resident Room is a recently opened cocktail bar designed for a clientele aged 30-65. This venue provides a relaxed setting where guests can enjoy a high-quality assortment of fine wines and cocktails.

NOTABLE EVENTS

EVENTS

Events

MUSIC, DANCE & FOOD FLÓÐREKA

SEPTEMBER 5 AND 12 • BORGARLEIKHÚS Flóðreka is a new work born from an exciting collaboration between choreographer Aðalheiður Halldórsdóttir, multi-disciplinary artist and musician Jónsi (Sigur Rós), and the Iceland Dance Company. Inspired by Jónsi’s renowned exhibition Flóð—shown at the National Nordic Museum in Seattle and later at Reykjavík Art Museum. Flóðreka brings together sound, movement, scent and immersive visual design in a sensory-rich exploration of our relationship to nature and to each other.

MILES DAVIS 100 - THE REYKJAVÍK BIG BAND

SEPTEMBER 6 • HARPA CONCERT HALL The Reykjavík Big Band honors one of the most influencial jazz muscians of all time, trumpeter Miles Davis. The program will consist of magnificent arrangements made by Gil Evans for Davis’ big band records. Sigurður Flosason conducts.

JOEP BEVING - LIMINAL TOUR

SEPTEMBER 10 • FRÍKIRKJAN Dutch pianist and composer Joep Beving is set to perform an exclusive concert at Fríkirkjan in Reykjavík. Recognized as one of the defining pianists of his generation, with over a billion total streams, he is returning to the stage in 2026 with a new album and a new series of performances shaped by the ideas and musical explorations he has been developing in recent years. Special guest this night is the Icelandic songwriter, composer, and producer Sóley Stefánsdóttir.

Find more information and events on www.whatson.is

EVENTS NOTABLE EVENTS

SONGS WITHOUT WORDS BERTRAND CHAMAYOU SOLO RECITAL

SEPTEMBER 11 • HARPA CONCERT HALL Critics are raving about Bertrand Chamayou’s piano playing. His programming has been called original and searching, his playing dynamic, technically perfect, and breathtakingly beautiful. Songs without words is the guiding theme of this concert, as the entire repertoire is related to songs that have inspired composers.

VAKA FOLK ARTS FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER 13-19 • SALURINN, KÓPAVOGUR VAKA Folk Art Festival will take place in Salurinn that is located in Kópavogur. The festival will feature music, dance, crafts, storytelling and poetry in a diverse program for curious guests of all ages. Most events are free of charge. Tickets are required for five events of the festival. By purchasing a festival pass, you gain access to all major festival events and support folk arts activities in Iceland. All information about the festival can be found at www. vakareykjavik.is and on the Vökufélag social media.

ENNIO MORRICONE - THE OFFICIAL SYMPHONIC EXPERIENCE

SEPTEMBER 25 • HARPA CONCERT HALL Italian composer Ennio Morricone is considered by many to be one of the greatest film composers of all time. At this film concert, the Iceland Symphony Orchestra plays music from the films Once Upon a Time in America, The Untouchables, Cinema Paradiso, Once Upon a Time in the West and The Mission. Clips from the films will be shown on the big screen during the performance.The concert will be about 90 minutes long, without intermission.

ANÚNA IN ICELAND

SEPTEMBER 26 • LANGHOLTSKIRKJA ANÚNA, Ireland’s National Choir performs in Iceland for the first time this September. Founded in 1987 by Irish composer Michael McGlynn, the group creates an immersive sound world combining movement, light, unique vocal textures, and a mystical atmosphere. Over nearly 40 years, ANÚNA has reached global audiences, contributing to soundtracks like Diablo and Xenoblade, and collaborating with artists ranging from Elvis Costello to Japanese Noh theatre.

Find more information and events on www.whatson.is

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS

EVENTS SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

Face to Face

May 30 - Nov 29 (2026) The Museum’s summer exhibition is a modified continuation of the previous exhibition. Among the new works is a portrait of Hanne Schultz that Sigurjón made in Denmark in 1944 and has not been shown before in Iceland. The iron sculpture A Glimpse Behind the Moon will be part of the exhibition to highlight the successful Artemis II space mission around the moon last February. The work was made by Sigurjón in 1961, but an enlarged version of it was unveiled outside the Seltjarnarnes Health Center in 1986 Laugarnestangi 70 • 105 Reykjavík Tel: 553 2906

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN

Ásmundur Sveinsson: Wonderland

January 11 (2025) - December 31 (2026) Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893–1982) was one of the pioneers of Icelandic sculpture. In this exhibition, we go back in time and into Ásmundur’s studio. Sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson worked in different materials. He carved wood, cut stone, shaped clay, transferred forms to concrete, in addition to working with iron and found materials. Many of his best-known works are enlarged and placed in public space around the city. Sigtún • 105 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6430

AURORA REYKJAVÍK

Catch the Aurora Borealis All Year Round

There is perhaps nothing more magical than witnessing the beauty of a northern lights display. However, those unpredictable, ever dancing lights don’t always show up on cue – and fade away during the summer

Aurora Reykjavík

months. So, it is with great joy that we welcome Aurora Reykjavík – The Northern Lights Centre, where the northern lights are always on display. Aurora Reykjavík’s pull and ace up its sleeve is its fantastic 4k time-lapse film of the Aurora Borealis. Aurora Reykjavík’s latest additions are virtual reality goggles featuring the world’s first 360° movie of aurora displays entirely shot in Iceland. If you can’t catch the northern lights yourself, this utterly realistic experience is definitely the next best option to witness the beauty of this truly amazing phenomenon. Capturing the northern lights with your own camera can be challenging, but at Aurora Reykjavík, you receive instruction by the experts: bring your camera and try the right settings at the Northern Lights Photo Simulator. In the exhibition, you will find an entertaining selfie booth – have fun looking all fabulous under the northern lights! For more information, see www.aurorareykjavik.is. Fiskislóð 53 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 780 4500

GERÐARSAFN ART MUSEUM

GERÐUR permanent exhibition

Gerður Helgadóttir (1928-1975) was a pioneering Icelandic sculptor known for her avant-garde and experimental approach to three-dimensional abstract art. Gerðarsafn, founded in her honour, hosts a permanent exhibition showcasing her prolific creativity and use of diverse materials. This exhibition highlights the complexity and innovation of her work, reflecting her wide-ranging interests. With a collection of fifteen hundred works, Gerðarsafn – Kópavogur Art Museum is the only museum in Iceland dedicated to a female artist, celebrating Gerður’s significant contributions to art.

Jeremy Deller

May 16 - September 9 A solo exhibition by acclaimed British artist and 2004 Turner Prize recipient, Jeremy Deller, opens at Gerðarsafn in May 2026. Deller, who represented Britain at the 2013 Venice Biennale, is known

Find more information and events on www.whatson.is

EVENTS

Valgerður

September 16 - January 25 (2027) A retrospective exhibition of the works of Valgerður Briem (1914–2002). She worked her entire life as a teacher and idea maker with an incredible need for creativity, but she rarely showed her own work publicly. Alongside her influential teaching work, she developed a unique visual world over decades that spans drawings, paintings, lettering, patternmaking, textiles, sculpture and research into form. By bringing together her works and ideas from different periods, her continuous research into perception, visual sense and creative thought becomes visible. Hamraborg 4 • 200 Kópavogur Tel: 441 7600

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

James Merry: Metamorphlings May 30 - October 4 James Merry: Metamorphlings, the artist’s first museum retrospective, features over 80 artworks— masks that explore identity and transformation over a decade. The Metamorphlings blend traditional (embroidery, metalwork) and avantgarde (3D printing, digital displays) techniques. Inspired by nature, archaeology, and ritual, many were created for collaborators like Björk and Tilda Swinton. Although often used in performance and fashion, the exhibition presents them as standalone art.

Björk: echolalia

May 30 - September 20 Echolalia highlights the work of Björk across art, nature and technology. The exhibition includes theatrical presentations of three songs: Ancestress and Sorrowful Soil, elegies for her mother, and a new work. Ancestress is a ritualistic procession of musicians

and dancers in a remote Icelandic valley. Sorrowful Soil is a 9-part polychoral requiem, featuring 30 speakers transmitting the voices of the Hamrahlíð choir, conducted by Þorgerður Ingólfsdóttir. Fríkirkjuvegur 7 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 515 9600

HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS

Resistance

“Resistance” is an interdisciplinary exhibition at the National Gallery of Iceland, catering to all ages and merging visual arts with science. The showcased works explore resistance in both a general and physical context, symbolising opposition to consumption and essential action against climate change. Centred on the sustainability discourse, the artworks prompt contemplation of ethical issues surrounding efforts to enhance sustainability. Different themes, such as land, air, ocean, principles and play can be explored by the visitors. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on existence, nature, and personal choices, emphasising the reciprocal effects that contribute to a more sustainable life.

Stay and turn to stone! group exhibition

February 1 - December 31 The rich and otherworldly visual universe of Icelandic folktales has been an inexhaustible source of inspiration for Icelandic visual artists since the beginning of the 20th century. This folkloric heritage is an inseparable part of the national psyche, and the stories—told over the centuries both for instruction and for entertainment—continue to live on in the collective memory of the nation. Hverfisgata 15 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 515 9600

James Merry

Find more information and events on www.whatson.is

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS

for collaborative works with nonartworld individuals and groups, shifting the artwork’s traditional context. The Gerðarsafn exhibition will feature selected works from 2021–2026, including printworks with graphic designer Fraser Muggeridge and video installations.

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS

EVENTS THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

The Making of a Nation Heritage and History in Iceland The National Museum of Iceland’s permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation – Heritage and History in Iceland, is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the settlement to the present day. The aim is to cast light on the Icelanders’ past by placing the cultural heritage preserved by the National Museum in a historical context, guided by the question: what makes a nation? The exhibition includes about 2,000 objects dating from the Settlement Age to the present, as well as about 1,000 photographs from the 20th century. The exhibition is conceived as a journey through time: it begins with the ship in which mediaeval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home, and it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world.

The Bridal Costume

May 9 - May 9, 2027 The exhibition “The BridaL Costume” showcases a late 18th-century faldbúningur bridal costume. Thought lost in an 1809 shipwreck, it was documented in 1866 and rediscovered in 1963 by Elsa E. Guðjónsson at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Six years later it was loaned to the National Museum of Iceland for an exhibition, and now it is to return. The exhibition details its complex history—the shipwreck, its London journey, Jørgen Jørgensen’s role, its wearer, and the Mother of Flowers— with a visual interpretation by Kristjana S. Williams.

Like cats and dogs

November 1 (2025) - February 28 (2027) Dogs and cats accompanied the original settlers to Iceland and have always played a part in Icelanders’ daily lives, although their roles have

Making of a Nation changed over time. Dogs assisted their masters with farm work and herding. Cats were primarily hunters that kept mice at bay, but there are fewer stories from centuries past about cats than there are about dogs.

FLOW Sólon Íslandus & Mógil

June 2 - January 15, 2027 FLOW features selected works by Sölvi Helgason, known as Sólon Íslandus. His art reflects his life as a folk artist who defied social norms. Sölvi’s work blends drawings, sketches, and texts into a unique visual world. His delicate illustrations of flowers and patterns often include faces or symbols from his travels. At the opening, the band Mógil will perform a concert for their new album inspired by Sölvi. Their music will be part of the exhibition, highlighting his enduring influence. Suðurgata 41 • 102 Reykjavík Tel: 530 2200

AÐALSTRÆTI

The Settlement Exhibition

An open excavation where Viking ruins meet multimedia technology. Just below ground in downtown Reykjavík, this open excavation uncovers the city’s Viking Age history. Discovered during building work in 2001, these archaeological remains turned out to be the earliest evidence of human settlement in the city, with some dating to before AD 872. Careful excavation revealed a 10th-century hall or longhouse, which is now preserved in its original location as the focal point of the exhibition. Interactive technology immerses you in the world of the Reykjavík farm at the time of the first settlers, including information on how Viking Age buildings were constructed and what life was like in the hall. The Settlement Exhibition is part of Reykjavík City Museum.

Reykjavík ...The Story Continues

Family-friendly and informative

Find more information and events on www.whatson.is

EVENTS

Aðalstræti 16 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6370

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM KJARVALSSTAÐIR

Big Little City – Reykjavík in View June 18 - October 20 Kjarvalsstaðir hosts a summer exhibition on the occasion of Reykjavík’s 240th anniversary in 2026, exploring the city’s historical and contemporary image. By presenting new contemporary artworks, showcasing interesting works from the museum’s collection, and borrowing curious

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS

exhibition about the development of Reykjavík, from farm to city. This new display is a direct continuation of The Settlement Exhibition, representing Reykjavík’s history from settlement to the present day. Visitors get an insight into the complex history and culture of Reykjavík through the development of house construction and planning with a stop at the oldest house in the city centre, Aðalstræti 10. The admission is valid to both Aðalstræti 10 and The Settlement Exhibition in Aðalstræti 16.

objects from other museums and institutions, the exhibition tracks Reykjavík’s evolution from a fishing village to a multicultural center of culture and tourism. The exhibition raises questions about identity, urban planning, social structure, and cultural self-perception.

Kjarval and the 20th Century: When Modernity Anchored

This exhibition showcases artworks by numerous Icelandic artists and Iceland’s most influential painter Jóhannes S. Kjarval, over the span of sixty years after the turn of the 20th century. During Kjarval’s lifetime, enormous changes shaped the Icelandic society, orchestrated by industrialization and travels abroad. Icelandic artists returned from Europe with fresh ideas in their minds, inspired for a shift in their artistic styles. When Modernity anchored depicts that paradigm shift in breaking away from naturalistic imagery to a more symbolism-oriented artstyle. Flókagata 24 • 105 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6420

Árbær open air museum

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM

Árbær was an established farm well into the 20th century, and the museum opened there in 1957. Árbær is now an open-air museum with more than 20 buildings which form a town square, a village and a farm. Most of the buildings have been relocated from central Reykjavik.Árbær Open Air Museum tries to give a sense of the architecture and way of life and lifestyles of the past in Reykjavík and during summer visitors can see domestic animals. There are many exhibitions and events held at the Museum, which highlight specific periods in Reykjavik’s history. These include craft days, vintage car displays, Christmas exhibitions and much more. There is something for everyone at Árbær Open Air Museum.

Consumption - Reykjavík in the 20th century The exhibition aims to show the huge and rapid changes that took place in consumption patterns in Reykjavík during the 20th century – to explore the factors that affected consumption, and how technical advances, government actions, wars, and events in Iceland and abroad influenced the daily life of the people of Reykjavík. Big little City - Reykjavík in View

Find more information and events on www.whatson.is

Kistuhylur 4 • 110 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6320

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS

EVENTS EINAR JÓNSSON SCULPTURAL MUSEUM

This is a museum in the heart of Reykjavík that houses the work of Iceland’s first sculptor Einar Jónsson. The museum contains close to 300 artworks spanning a 60-year career: carvings from the artist’s youth, sculpture, paintings and drawings. A beautiful tree-clad garden adorned with 26 bronze casts of the artist’s works is located behind the museum. The task of the museum is to collect, preserve and display the work of Einar as well as to conduct research on his life and art. Hallgrímstorg 3 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 3797

HAFNARBORG MUSEUM

margins

August 27 - November 1 The exhibition margins turns its attention to the exhibition space itself and its role in exhibition-making – to the possibilities that reside in the unseen or forgotten, in the void that is never truly empty. In the

exhibition, six artists engage directly with the space. Working across different media, they all share an interest in exploring its overlooked surfaces and peripheral areas, whether through material, concept or installation. The margins thus become the subject of the exhibition, both as an actual site and as an idea.

Frosti Fjalar Bjarmaband

August 27 - November 1 In the exhibition, visitors are introduced to a selection of works by Frosti Fjalar, an artist who pursued his practice in solitude for several decades. Frosti, formerly known as Jakob Jónsson, had a long and distinctive career spanning more than half a century. Following an active period of exhibiting in the 1970s and 1980s, he withdrew from public exhibitions and worked thereafter largely outside the established structures of the art world. Strandgata 34 • 220 Hafnarfjörður Tel: 585 5790

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Óli K. Press Photographer

May 21 - September 6 Ólafur K. Magnússon (1926–1997), better known as Óli K., studied photography and filmmaking in New York and Los Angeles. When he joined Morgunblaðið in 1947, he became Iceland’s first permanent newspaper photographer, a position he held for nearly half a century, until his passing in 1997. historical, tragic and humorous events, frame by frame, through Óli K.’s eyes. Some of his images have become woven into the nation’s collective memory, such as his documentation of the 1949 clashes at Austurvöllur over Iceland’s entry into NATO.

Putting Skotið in Focus 2026

January 6 - December 31 In 2026, Fókus – the Association of Amateur Photographers will take over the exhibition space SKOTIÐ at the Reykjavík Museum of Photography. Throughout the year, seven diverse exhibitions by Fókus members will be presented, curated by the association’s exhibition committee. Fókus is a vibrant and creative community of amateur photographers in Reykjavík, offering a fantastic platform for anyone looking to develop their photography skills and express their creative talents. Tryggvagata 15 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6390

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS

Karin Sanders: 1957-2057

Erró

May 30 – September 20 German artist Karin Sander, known for her conceptual work and minimal interventions, presents a comprehensive exhibition at the Reykjavík Arts Festival, reflecting her thirty-year connection with Iceland. Her work, which often

Find more information and events on www.whatson.is

Meet some of Iceland’s finest designers Skeifan 6 / Kringlan / Smáralind / Laugavegi 7 / Hveragerði / www.epal.is

UNLEASH YOUR TASTE BUDS WITH THE FINEST ICELANDIC GRILL EXPERIENCE

EVENTS

Erró: Remix

June 5, 2025 – December 3, 2026 Erró is one of the few Icelandic artists who has gained a foothold in the international art scene. The Reykjavik Art Museum houses the most extensive collection of Erró’s works and exhibitions from the Erró collection are a regular fixture at the Hafnarhús site of the Reykjavík Art Museum, with the purpose of giving as clear an image as possible of the diverse character of the artist’s works. This exhibition is a comprehensive overview of the artist’s colourful career that has made use of various media in the visual arts. Tryggvagata 17 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6400

REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM

A View of the North

May 30 2025 - unknown How could the mysterious disappearance of a French naval vessel cause a turning-point in the history of the Icelandic nation? In May 1835 Paul Gaimard, a French physician and adventurer, stepped ashore in Reykjavík. He was in Iceland in search of La Lilloise, the vanished ship. This exhibition has been a collaboration between the Reykjavík City Museum and the University of Iceland’s School of Humanities, curated by students in a course within its Cultural Studies Programme in the spring of 2025. Grandagarður 8 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 411 6340

THE NORDIC HOUSE

The Nordic House in Reykjavik is a well-established venue for Nordic art, culture, language, and public discussion. The Nordic House offers a bold and relevant program that centers on art, literature, and societal issues all year round. The work is across various sectors with broad themes that are explored from literary, artistic and societal perspectives. The library and the exhibition hall Hvelfing function as the foundation for the program. In addition to their ongoing program, the Nordic House arrange and accommodate various auxiliary activities, ranging from discussions, seminars, festivals, to other art and culture projects. The Nordic House is designed by acclaimed Finnish modernist architect Alvar Aalto (1898-1976). The house is one of his later works, a hidden gem among the betterknown masterpieces, and features most of Aalto’s signature traits.

MANUSCRIPT EXHIBITION IN EDDA

World in Words

A new exhibition called World in Words has opened In Edda the house for Icelandic studies, showcasing Iceland’s most treasured cultural artefacts: the ancient manuscripts. The exhibition offers a chance to view medieval Icelandic manuscripts containing valuable cultural heritage. This includes ancient stories and renowned poetry, as well as various other texts reflecting the ideas that previous generations had about life and the societies they lived in. The exhibition endeavors to open up to guests the diverse world of medieval manuscripts. Arngrímsgata 5 • 107 Reykjavík Tel: 525 4020

Sæmundargata 11 • 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 7030

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART

At Home in The Design Museum The “At Home in The Design Museum” exhibition showcases 200+ art pieces of Icelandic design, part of the museum’s 5,000-artifact collection spanning from 1900 to the present. The three-year exhibition captures the essence of Icelandic design evolution. Emulating a home blueprint, the exhibition presents objects from different eras, echoing the diversity found in households. Furniture, tableware, books, and textiles offer a glimpse into the creative output of Icelandic designers within the last 100 years. A time capsule on Icelandic design. Garðatorg 1 • 210 Garðabær Tel: 512 1525

Find more information and events on www.whatson.is

Flateyjarbók

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS

involves visitor participation and environmental influence, reveals new dimensions of reality. The exhibition, Karin Sander 1957–2057, explores site-specificity, featuring works like 3D-printed visitor figurines (Visitors 1:8), blank canvases that absorb surrounding conditions, and a Google Earthpositioned neon sign.

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITIONS

EVENTS HÖFUÐSTÖÐIN

Höfuðstöðin is an art and culture centre that permanently displays the large-scale multi-sensory installation Chromo Sapiens by Shoplifter / Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir. Höfuðstöðin opened in 2022 and is the first self funded art center created by an Icelandic female artist around her own work, and raised over $100.000 on Kickstarter before its opening. Shoplifter Chromo Sapiens is Shoplifter’s monumental, multi-sensory, largescale installation that debuted at the Icelandic Pavilion for the Venice Biennale in 2019, to worldwide critical acclaim. The installation consists of three caves made from Shoplifter’s signature material, synthetic hair extensions. The installation surrounds the viewer’s horizon with soundscapes from the Icelandic band HAM in each cave. Entering the installation as homo sapiens, you are invited to explore

your inner landscape through the stimulation of the senses, where you are the destination of the journey, and when exiting you have transformed into Chromo Sapiens Rafstöðvarvegi 1a • 110 Reykjavík Tel: 550 0077

THE ICELANDIC PUNK MUSEUM

The Icelandic Punk Museum is located at Bankastræti 0, an underground location that served

as public toilets from 1930 to 2006. The museum honours the music and the spirit that has shaped musicians and bands to this day; people who dared to be different. Objects, photographs, videos, posters, etc. from roughly 1978 to 1992 are on display with texts in Icelandic and English, and the main music from the period is available to guests. Bankastræti 0 • 101 Reykjavík

L AU G A R S PA . CO M

A WORLD WHERE WATER, ART AND DESIGN PLAY TOGETHER IN PERFECT HARMONY Laugar Spa is a premier European-style spa. It features a variety of saunas, infrared cabins, and steam baths with different scents and temperatures, as well as a jacuzzi, cold tub, and specialized foot baths. Massage and spa treatments are also available.

UNLOCK ACCESS TO 18 GYMS AND 8 SWIMMING POOLS World Class offers bright, spacious, and fully equipped gyms across Iceland. Enjoy a wide variety of classes and access to 8 thermal pools.

ART & CULTURE

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Reykjavík’s only open air museum, where you can stroll through the past and experience the way we lived. Fun, fascinating and full of surprises, this living museum takes you on a journey through time. Guided tours at 13:00 all year round.

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM An open excavation where Viking ruins meet digital technology. Just below ground in downtown Reykjavík, this open excavation uncovers the city’s Viking Age history. Discovered during building work, then carefully excavated, these remnants of the past are the earliest evidence of human settlement in the city.

Kistuhylur, Reykjavík 411-6304 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 13-17

MINK VIKING PORTRAIT EXPERIENCE Become fierce Vikings in a professional, private photoshoot dressed in traditional clothing and wielding authentic weapons. Learn the Norse ways guided by local experts. This experience is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, groups, and families. Laugavegur 11, Reykjavík 537-7577 | www.mink.is

Aðalstræti 10 & 16, Reykjavík | 411-6370 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

REYKJAVIK MARITIME MUSEUM REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM A harbour museum exploring Iceland’s dramatic relationship with the sea. The survival of a nation depended on generations of brave fishermen heading into the unknown. Exhibitions and artefacts bring our ocean history to life. Grandagarður 8, Reykjavík | 411-6340 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is

VIÐEY ISLAND

WHALES OF ICELAND

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM An island, where art, history and nature lie just beyond the city shore. The combination of stunning views, historical ruins and contemporary art pieces make Viðey island something special. Just a short boat ride takes you to another world. Ferry Schedule: Weekends only. Viðey Reykjavik 411-6356. www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is

An exhibition in Reykjavík consisting of 23 life-size whale models - fun to touch and explore. Learn more about whales with in-depth multimedia and interactive information displays, videos and audio guide in several languages mixed with soothing whale sounds and underwater ambient lighting.

Fiskislóð 23-25 , Reykjavík 571-0077 | www.whalesoficeland.is Hours: Daily 10-17

REYKJAVÍK ... THE STORY CONTINUES REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM The city’s oldest house, built in 1762 houses an exhibition detailing the history of Reykjavík, and the daily life of the people who inhabited it, continuing where the nearby Settlement Exhibition leaves off. Aðalstræti 10, 101 Reykjavík 411 6300 | www.borgarsogusafn.is

EINAR JÓNSSON SCULPTURE MUSEUM A museum with indoor and outdoor exhibitions dedicated to the work of Einar Jónsson Iceland’s first modern sculptor (1874-1954). The museum was built in the early 1900’s when Einar Jónsson offered all of his works as a gift to the Icelandic nation. Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavík 551-3797 | www.lej.is Hours: Tue-Sun 12-17

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Reflecting the contemporary, while archiving the past – this is Reykjavík’s home of photography. Reykjavík’s main photography museum offers an ongoing programme of contemporary and historical exhibitions, and an onscreen archive of thousands of images from the past. Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavík | 411-6390 reykjavikcitymuseum.is | Hours: MonThu 10-18, Fri 11-18, Sat & Sun 13-17

Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

Iceland's leading art museum, established in 1884. Its collection consists mainly of 19th, 20th and 21st century art. The National Gallery possesses a coherent array of Icelandic works and a fine collection of international art. Together they constitute around 11,000 items.

Offers state-of-the-art exhibitions on the cultural history of Iceland. The permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History of Iceland, gives a comprehensive picture of Iceland’s cultural history through the ages to the present day.

Fríkirkjuvegur 7, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17

Suðurgata 41, Reykjavík 530-2200 | www.nationalmuseum.is Hours: Daily: 10-17

AURORA REYKJAVIK The Northern Lights Center, Aurora Reykjavik, allows you to experience the northern lights in a completely different way, both if you saw them, but as well if they escaped you while in Iceland. The centre features information, education and of course stunning visuals of the elusive lights that’ll get your heart racing. Fiskislóð 53, Reykjavík 780-4500 | www.aurorareykjavik.is Hours: Daily

THE LAVA SHOW

VOLCANO EXPRESS

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

Step into a mesmerizing world where molten earth meets artistic expression and scientific exploration. The Lava Show in Iceland invites you to witness the raw power and elegance of volcanic forces with the world’s only live lava show!

The Volcano Express is a cinematic experience providing an immersive insight into the volcanic processes transforming Iceland. From within the magnificent Harpa Concert Hall, you’ll be taken on a thrilling adventure across the most volcanically active regions of the volcanic island.

A museum that Icelandic sculptor Sigurjón Ólafsson’s wife founded as a tribute to his life and work in 1984. She had his studio in Laugarnes converted to an exhibition space to house his collection of works, including sculptures, sketches, drawings and biographical material.

Harpa, Reykjavík 528-5050 | volcanoexpress.is Hours: Daily 10-20

Laugarnestangi 70 553-2906 | www.lso.is Hours: Saturdays and Sundays: 13-17

PERLAN

FLYOVER ICELAND

This peculiar building, built on top of six water tanks on a hill overlooking the city, houses two exhibitions, The Wonders of Iceland and Water in Icelandic Nature. In addition, Perlan has a recently-opened planetarium, a café and gelateria, and an observation deck with a 360° view of the city and its surrounding nature.

FlyOver Iceland utilises state-of-theart technology to give you the feeling of flight. You will hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while the film whisks you away on an exhilarating journey across Iceland. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unforgettable experience.

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART Its objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts from 1900 to the present day. This young museum, the only one of its kind in Iceland, holds regular exhibitions of Icelandic and international design during the year. Exhibitions from the museum‘s own collection are regularly held.

Fiskislóð 43, 101 Reykjavík. 527-6700. www.flyovericeland.is Hours: Mon-Fri, 11:00-19:00 & Sat-Sun, 11:00-19:00.

Garðatorg 1, Garðabær 512-1525 | www.honnunarsafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 12-17

Fiskislóð 73, Reykjavík 553-0005 | icelandiclavashow.com

Varmahlíð 1, Reykjavík 566-9000 | www.perlan.is Hours: 9-22

Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is

ART & CULTURE

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

ART & CULTURE

KJARVALSSTAÐIR

ÁSMUNDARSAFN

HAFNARHÚS

Mainly devoted to paintings and sculpture by well-established Icelandic and international artists. Kjarvalsstaðir offers a permanent exhibition of key works by one of Iceland’s most beloved landscape painters, Jóhannes S. Kjarval, as well as changing exhibitions that explore various thematic and historical aspects of Icelandic art.

Opened in 1983, the collection is housed in a unique building designed and constructed mostly by the artist himself from 1942-1950. The original building served Sveinsson as studio and home; behind it he built a crescent-shaped structure as a work and exhibition space.

The old harbour warehouse, Hafnarhús, offers a progressive exhibition program with local and international contemporary artists. The work of current notables, art canons and newcomers is presented in six galleries. Hafnarhús is also home to the works of Erró (b. 1932), a significant player in the international pop art scene.

Flókagata 24, Reykjavík 411-6420 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

GLJÚFRASTEINN LAXNESS MUSEUM Halldór Laxness is arguably the most famous Icelandic writer of all time, and the only Icelander to have won a Nobel Prize, which he received for literature in 1955. Gljúfrasteinn was his home until his death, and today it is a museum dedicated to his life and work. Gljúfrasteinn, Mosfellsbær 586-8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is Hours: Tue-Fri 10-17

Sigtún, Reykjavík 411-6430 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavík 411-6400 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Thu 10-22

HAFNARBORG

THE LIVING ART MUSEUM

FREE ENTRY Hafnarborg has a collection of Icelandic art and regular exhibitions presenting leading Icelandic and international artists. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Around exhibitions are workshops and guided tours. Strandgata 34, Hafnarfjörður 585-5790 | www.hafnarborg.is Hours: 12-17, closed on Tuesdays

An active exhibition space that has organized many exciting exhibitions throughout the years. They put an emphasis on introducing young Icelandic artists, as well as showcasing work by better-known Icelandic and foreign modern and contemporary artists. The Marshall House Grandagarður 20, Reykjavík 551-4350 | www.nylo.is Hours: Wed-Sun: 12-18

GERÐARSAFN

HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS

THE NORDIC HOUSE

A progressive modern art museum in Kópavogur, dedicated to sculptor Gerður Helgadóttir; the only museum in Iceland dedicated to a woman. Its collection consists of more than 1,400 works by Gerður, as well as the works of the most celebrated Icelandic artists of the 20th and 21st century.

House of collections was built in 1906 and for most of the 20th century served as the country’s National Library. The stately building currently houses the National Gallery’s exhibition Treasures of a Nation, displaying works from the Gallery’s extensive collection depicting Iceland’s art history from the early 19th century to our times.

Iceland maintains strong ties to other Nordic countries, and the center of this cooperation is the Nordic House, designed by acclaimed Finnish architect Alvar Aalto in 1968. The Nordic House is the venue if you want to enjoy the best of Icelandic culture as well as experiencing rich culture of the Nordic countries.

Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Daily 10-17

Sturlugata 5, Reykjavík 551-7030 | www.nordice.is Hours: Tue-Sun: 10-17

Hamraborg 4, Kópavogur 441-7600 | www.gerdarsafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17

Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is

ENJOY LOCAL CUISINE with an international twist

BY THE OLD HARBOR

Nýlendugata 14, 101 Reykjavík

www.forrettabarinn.is

CITY CENTER

Frakkastígur 8A, 101 Reykjavík

+354 5171800

ONE OF THE FOOD WONDERS OF THE WORLD ICELANDIC LAMB IS THE FIRST ICELANDIC FOOD PRODUCT TO BE PDO-MARKED Icelandic lamb has acquired the PDO label, the highest level of geographical indication in Europe, placing it in the company of the world's best-known and most sought-after quality products.

LEBOWSKI BAR

TELEBAR

If you are visiting Iceland for the first time then you must stop by the Lebowski Bar. Open every day from 11AM, happy hour from 4-7PM, food served until 10PM, Quiz every Thursday (free entry), live sport events on 5 HD screens and Reykjavik nightlife every Friday & Saturday.

Laugavegur 27, Reykjavík 888-2380

Laugavegur 20a, Reykjavík 552-2300 www.lebowski.is

A lively bar in the heart of Reykjavík, located at Iceland Parliament Hotel by Austurvöllur. Telebar offers a welcoming atmosphere, colorful cocktails and a tempting bar menu, With live jazz performances every Thursday and a vibrant cultural spirit, it’s the perfect place to unwind, meet friends, and enjoy the energy of downtown Reykjavík. Thorvaldsensstræti 2, Reykjavík 513-3120 | www.hjajoni.is

EINSTÖK

PORT 9

AUTO NIGHTCLUB & VENUE

There’s nothing like an Einstök beer after a long day of exploring Reykjavík and now there’s a whole bar dedicated to this popular brew! Einstök literally means unique and after a few sips of their refreshing craft ale, brewed with fresh water from Northern Iceland, we’re sure you’ll agree. The recently opened Laugavegur bar makes it even easier to enjoy their variety of ales, ranging from citrusy fresh white to the darkest of porters.

Port 9 wine bar is a hidden gem just off the main shopping street. Serving selected wines and a unique blend of appetizers made with the freshest seasonal ingredients, Port 9 is one of the best spots in the city to stop by for a glass of quality wine in a relaxed atmosphere.

In the heart of the city, AUTO offers vibrant weekend parties with great music, premium bottle service, and a lively crowd. Whether you’re here to dance or just soak in the atmosphere, AUTO is your go-to spot for nightlife in Reykjavík. Open Friday and Saturday nights from 11 pm.

Veghúsastígur 9, Reykjavík 897-8212 www.port9.is

Lækjargata 2a, 101 Reykjavík www.autoclub.is

Laugavegur 10, Reykjavík

LOFT HOSTEL

KIKI - QUEER BAR

RÖNTGEN

This hostel café/bar is bright and spacious; the perfect place to start the night. The hall hosts events most nights and on summer afternoons, the balcony is the best place in town for a beer in the sun. Last but not least, Loft has the best foosball table of all the bars in the city centre.

Kiki is the only queer bar in town these days but it is also the best one! If you’re worried you won’t find the place, don’t be. The rainbow coloured street entrance, stream of people in a dancing mood, and the far-off sound of dance-heavy beats should lead you where you want to go!

In the early 20th century, Hverfisgata 12 was home to the country’s first X-ray clinic. Today, the building houses one of the city’s newest bars but the name pays homage to the building’s long history. Expect cocktails, natural wines, and the city’s artsiest crowd having a night out.

Bankastræti 7, Reykjavík 553-8140

Laugavegur 22 www.kiki.is

Hverfisgata 12, Reykjavík www. www.rontgenbar.is

Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is

PUBS & NIGHTLIFE

VÍNSTÚKAN 10 SOPAR 10 Sopar is the city centre’s cosiest wine bar focusing mostly on serving natural wines. If you start to get peckish after a few glasses of their delicious wines, they also serve snacks and small plates. The cosy bar is perfect for having a few glasses of wines with friends or a date.

PUBS & NIGHTLIFE

PETERSEN SVÍTAN

KALDI BAR

AMERICAN BAR

Built in 1926 as an apartment, the Petersen Suite is one of Reykjavík’s hidden gems. Take the elevator up to the third floor above the historic Gamla Bíó concert hall to reveal an elegant bar with one of Reykjavík’s best views. On sunny days, you need to get there early, the sunny patio fills up quickly!

One of the coolest bars in Reykjavik these days is Kaldi Bar. In close cooperation with north Icelandic micro brewery of the same name, Kaldi offers you a selection of craft brewed beers on tap. Great happy hour and great fun, Kaldi is a place not to be missed!

American Bar is named appropriately since it’s an American Bar in Reykjavík, of the kind you’re probably familiar with from other countries: there are dudes, chicks and random university students partying to the latest MTV tunes. They specialize in American culture and entertainment.

Ingólfsstræti 2a 3rd floor, Reykjavík 563-4000 | www.ktf.is

Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavík 581-2200

Austurstræti 8, Reykjavík 571-9999

KAFFIBARINN

UPPI BAR

NÍNA

Best known as Damon Albarn’s hangout place back in the day, this most famous bar in Iceland is a popular destination for the artsy crowd. During the week it‘s more of a café, but on the weekend the volume rises and KB becomes one of the hottest bars in Reykjavik.

Uppi Bar offers upscale dining, wine and cocktails. The name Uppi refers to its location, upstairs above the renowned Fish Market Restaurant. You can expect the same exquisite attention to detail and delicious food, but in a casual bar setting, perfect for happy hour or a fancy start to a night out.

The bar Nína on Hverfisgata offers a low-key atmosphere where people can sit down to talk and watch main sporting events in between. Later at night when the live sports have finished, the lights are dimmed and the music volume increased to get the party started.

Bergstaðastræti 1, Reykjavík 551-1588 www.kaffibarinn.is

Aðalstræti 12, Reykjavík 571-8788

Hverfisgata 20, Reykjavík www.ninabar.is

Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is

Amazing dining experience in the downtown harbour district

Tryggvagata 4-6 • 101 Reykjavik • Iceland +354 561 1111 • steik@steik.is www.steik.is

Fish • Lamb • Whale • Icelandic cuisine with a twist Icelandic music and nightlife Mix with the locals . .and all the Icelandic beers in one awsome place!

INGÓLFSSTRÆTI 1A

1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K

www.islenskibarinn.is postur@islenskibarinn.is sími: 517 6767

Trip - Booking Agency & Tourist Info | Laugavegur 54, Reykjavík | trip@whatson.is | +354 537 8100 Open Mon-Sat 9:00-21:00, Sun 9:00-18:00 | Located directly opposite Bónus Supermarket, on the main street

THE ICELANDIC BAR

HJÁ JÓNI

The Icelandic Bar is very aptly named: it is an Icelandic bar. But more than that, it is a bar that aims to preserve the essence of being Icelandic by combining the historical and cultural heritage of this ancient land with the very hip and cutting edge culture of modern times.

An elegantly styled restaurant located inside the Iceland Parliament Hotel by Austurvöllur square in downtown Reykjavík. Guests are invited on a flavorful journey where fresh Icelandic ingredients meet global culinary inspiration. Enjoy carefully selected wines or creative cocktails and experience the perfect blend of local charm and international taste.

Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavík 561-1111 | www.steik.is

Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík 517-6767 www.islenskibarinn.is

Thorvalsensstræti 2, Reykjavík 513-3120 | www.hjajoni.is

FISH COMPANY

FISH AND CHIPS VAGNINN

GEIRI SMART

Quality, fusion and fun are the Fish Company’s main characteristics. The interior is stylish and the quirky tableware fits in wonderfully. The menu is a world of adventures from starters to deserts. It’s designed to take you on a seafood journey and not only a journey of the Icelandic culinary waters but a trip around the world.

The famous fish and chips stand down by the old harbour has moved to a permanent location down at Grandi! You can now enjoy the freshest Icelandic fish served in the traditional British way every day from 12:00 to 08:00 PM. And yep – so traditionally British that you can even get yummy mushy peas and malt vinegar with it! Splendid!

Discover Geiri Smart on Reykjavík’s Hverfisgata, just steps from the city center. This trendy restaurant is celebrated for inventive dishes made from fresh local produce, served in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for those looking to enjoy Reykjavík’s contemporary food scene in style.

Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavík 552-5300 | www.fiskfelagid.is

Grandagarður 37-9, Reykjavík 840-4100 | fishandchipsvagninn.is

Hverfisgata 30, Reykjavík 528-7050 | geirismart.is

SLIPPBARINN

ANDREZ

TAPAS BARINN

A vibrant bar and restaurant by Reykjavík’s old harbor. Offering a diverse menu, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere, Slippbarinn is a favorite gathering place for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends, it’s the perfect place to enjoy great food and the up-beat energy of Reykjavík.

Andrez is located in Borg29 food hall and offers French crepes and tacos. The menu features simple and flavourful fast food, with a focus on fresh ingredients and well-balanced combinations — perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Situated in downtown Reykjavík, the Spanish style bodega Tapas barinn is a place bursting with the delicious smells and flavours of traditional tapas along with the best of Icelandic tapas. Lining the wall are racks of fine wines and sparking glasses.

Borgartún 29, Reykjavík 415-6480 | www.borg29.is

Vesturgata 3b, Reykjavík 551-2344 | tapas.is

Mýrargata 2, 101 Reykjavík 560-8080 | www.slippbarinn.is Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is

WINING & DINING

THE STEAK HOUSE A restaurant opposite the old harbour that offers traditional steak dishes along with some exciting and fairly unorthodox choices. The pride and joy of The Steakhouse is the Mibrasa charcoal oven, a rare oven that is designed to cook the perfect steak by mixing modern technology with ancient tradition.

WINING & DINING

MUST TRY ICELANDIC DELICACIES

AKEILLES Akeilles is a Balkan restaurant located in Borg29 food hall. Akeilles brings the heart of the Balkans to your plate – from sizzling skewers, juicy pljeskavica, and grilled souvlaki, to creamy kajmak, handmade ajvar, and famous ćevapi inspired by the vibrant street food culture and family kitchens of Romania,Serbia, Greece, Croatia, and beyond.

ONAN

FJALLK FJALLKONAN MES YOU! WELCO

GRILLED SALMON

Fjallkonan is ICELANDIC a lively restaurantSKYR & pub ETON MESS LAMB RACK in the heart of Reykjavík offeringCHEESECAKE a selection of Icelandic dishes made with fresh locally sourced Icelandic ingredients and delicious desserts made with Icelandic candy.

Fjallkonan is a lively restaurant & pub in the heart of Reykjavík offering a amazing selection of Icelandic dishes made with fresh locally

sourced Icelandic ingredients and 101 deliciousReykjavík desserts made with Icelandic candy. Hafnarstræti 1-3, Stop by for snacks & drinks, lunch, weekend brunch or dinner. 555-0950 www.fjallkona.is fjallkonan.rvk BOOK YOUR TABLE: (+354) 555 0950 > fjallkona.is

Borgartún 29, Reykjavík 546-0480 | www.borg29.is

TRES LOCOS Tres Locos is a fun and lively Mexican restaurant located in Hafnarstræti 4, Reykjavík. The decor is colourful and full of curiosities and and the atmosphere vibrant and lively. Tres Locos serve taco, tostadas, fajitas, quesadilla and other Mexican delicacies, made with fresh Icelandic ingredients. Hafnarstræti 4, 101 Reykjavík www.treslocos.is

FORRÉTTABARINN

JÓMFRÚIN

MAR

Tasty tapas with an Icelandic twist. With a new spin on traditional Icelandic cuisine and an extensive selection of local beer, Forréttabarinn – “The Starters Bar” – is worth seeking out when you need a bite to eat or a place to start your night out in Reykjavík. Whatever you choose from the refreshingly creative menu, you’re in for a treat!

An open-sandwich restaurant in the Danish tradition offering authentic Danish smørrebrød along with a selection of hot dishes. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city centre and seats 80 guests. It is a popular lunch venue, especially with people from the business sector.

MAR Seafood is a new and exciting seafood restaurant in downtown Reykjavík. The restaurant offers original appetisers, homely seafood courses with Icelandic ingredients in classic recipes that all Icelanders are familiar with. The atmosphere is cosy with a fancy design that highlights fishing and seamanship.

Nýlendugata 14, Reykjavík 517-1800 | www.forrettabarinn.is

Lækjargata 4, Reykjavík 551-0100 www.jomfruin.is

Frakkastígur 8, Reykjavík 571-9800 www.mar-seafood.is

Down by the harbour

Find more recommendations on www.whatson.is

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

WHAT’S ON IF YOU NEED MORE INFO, CONTACT INFO@WHATSON.IS

HOW TO ... TAKE THE BUS

Strætó is the Icelandic bus company, and their yellow buses are easy to spot around the city. You have three ways to pay. With a top up KLAPP card, with the KLAPP app, and with KLAPP ten, a bus pass with ten tickets. You can buy KLAPP cards and KLAPP ten at selected gas stations, convenience stores, museums, and swimming pools. For more information, go to https://www.klappid.is/en/sales

GET TO THE AIRPORT

Iceland’s international airport is located in Keflavík, about 50km from Reykjavík. If you rent a car or take a cab, it will take about 45 minutes to get to Reykjavík. A cheaper but just as reliable option is taking a bus to and from the airport. They connect to flights and will drop you off or pick you up at bus stops close to your accommodation in Reykjavík.

GET MONEY

Iceland has its own currency, the Icelandic króna (ISK). It’s best to get króna at any bank (open Monday to Friday, 9-4), including the one at the Keflavík International Airport (open 24/7). You can either exchange money or go to an ATM to get cash. Credit card and debit card payments are widely accepted in Iceland.

PARK IN THE CITY CENTRE

There are different parking zones which charge different rates. Look for a parking sign (the familiar big P) indicating zones 1-4 and parking garages. Look for the nearest black terminal to pay, with cash or card, and type in your car’s number plate, no ticket necessary!

MAKE CALLS

Getting an Icelandic SIM card is easy, you can get them at the airport, phone companies, and, of course, the What’s On tourist information centres at Laugavegur 5 and Laugavegur 54.

GO SWIMMING

There are 18 swimming pools in the capital area and if you have the time, you should try them all. Swimming is great, but don’t miss relaxing in the hot tubs – this is where the community gathers and socialises. If you haven’t packed a bathing suit, you can rent one at the pool.

Visit our What’s On tourist information offices at Laugavegur 5 and Laugavegur 54 or contact us at info@whatson.is.

Find more articles like this at www.whatson.is

WHALE WATCHING AND OTHER WILDLIFE ADVENTURES FROM REYKJAVÍK AND AKUREYRI

RIB EXPRESS

NORTHERN LIGHTS BY BOAT

BOOK NOW!

WE GO THE EXTRA MILE

+354-560-8800 specialtours.is info@specialtours.is Scan to book now

Experience Icelandic Bathing Culture

Minutes from the city centre