Reykjavik, Iceland
Embarking on a journey to Iceland and choosing Reykjavik as a home base is a strategic and enriching decision, offering a gateway to the country's stunning natural wonders and vibrant cultural scene. Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital, serves as a comfortable and cosmopolitan hub from which to explore the Land of Fire and Ice. With its colorful buildings, quirky street art, and a lively atmosphere, the city itself is a fascinating blend of modern Nordic chic and historical charm.
Using Reykjavik as a base allows for convenient day trips to some of Iceland's most iconic landmarks. The Golden Circle, a popular route encompassing Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall, is easily accessible from the capital. The dramatic landscapes of the South Coast, including the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and the stunning waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, are also within a few hours' drive from Reykjavik.
Beyond its proximity to natural wonders, Reykjavik boasts a thriving cultural scene. The city is dotted with museums, galleries, and performance spaces that showcase Iceland's rich history and artistic endeavors. Exploring the vibrant street art scene and indulging in the local culinary offerings, from traditional Icelandic dishes to innovative international fusion, make Reykjavik not just a practical base but a destination in its own right. Overall, basing yourself out of Reykjavik ensures a dynamic and comfortable Icelandic adventure, providing a perfect balance between urban exploration and immersive natural wonders.
Oh and if you do anything please stop and see the horses. I am a “horse girl” but, they’re the most majestic fairytale like creatures I have ever seen. They literally roam free all over Iceland but, you can ride them with Mr. Iceland and Viking Horses.
Culinary Delights
Dining in Iceland is a very interesting experience. Some may say you cannot visit Iceland without indulging in the local delicacies such as hákarl (fermented shark) but I personally think you can’t visit Iceland without having the Icelandic hot dog. However, seafood lovers are in for a treat, as the country's cold and pristine waters provide an abundance of fresh catches, including succulent salmon and tender cod. Restaurants in Reykjavik often emphasize the farm-to-table concept as importing is extremely expensive. I could absolutely try to convince you that the food in Iceland is amazing but, that would a lie. I did love the fish & chips, hot dogs, and cinnamon rolls. I personally lived off of that combo for five days straight with of addition of a chocolate covered licorice candy called Þristur, kefir, and chocolate milk. I know it’s odd but, we spent most of our time driving in the car so we could see as much as we possibly could and the towns are very far apart so its not like there was always a place to stop. I’m also only a semi adventurous eater so it wasn’t like I was going to eat sheep’s head or ram’s testicles.
In Reykavik the best hot dog can be found at Bæjarins Beztu. However, my personal favorite is Pylsuvagninn and can found at the end of the golden circle.
As for fish and chips they can be found at Reykjavik Fish, Fish & Co, Mia’s Country Van (go when seeing the waterfalls), and Nailed It! (at the glacier lagoon).
Lastly, every morning your in Reykjavik you need to get a bun at Braud & Co. Oh and you happen to find yourself in Vik you absolutely have to go Skool Beans. The owner is the loveliest human being and the hot chocolate is life changing.
Cozy Accommodations
When looking at hotels in Iceland its important to note that there is actually only hotel that is considered five stars in Reykjavik. That hotel is actually the Reykavik Edition and has opened very recently. While many of the hotels are very lovely four star hotels that have fantastic amenities and accommodations it is something to note that Iceland isn’t the most glamorous destination but, what it lacks in luxury it makes up in beauty. I personally think its important to stay right the heart of downtown so you can take advantage of the amazing walking city and save your time in the car when your out seeing all of the otherworldly scenery Iceland has to offer.
My hotel recommendations in Reykavik include: Hotel Borg, Exeter, Sand Hotel, Reykavik Konsulat, Apotek, Ion City Hotel, Iceland Parliament, Canopy by Hilton, Alda, and 101 Hotel.
Pro tip: If you can I’d spend a few days elsewhere and make a roadtrip out of it. When I went to Iceland with my sister we based ourselves out of Reykavik, Vik, and Grindavik so we could maximize the amount of places we could see. We stayed at Hotel Kria in Vik and Berg hotel in Grindavik. Next time we go we plan on doing the full ring road and we would most likely stay at Foss Glacier Lagoon, Siglo, and Husafell along with the other hotels we stayed at on our original trip.
