Reykjavík Travel Guide: Northern Lights, Geothermal Pools & the Golden Circle

# Reykjavík Travel Guide: Northern Lights & Geothermal Pools

Iceland's capital is the world's northernmost — a city of colourful corrugated-iron houses, world-class restaurants, and a creative energy that punches far above its 130,000 population. And it's the launchpad for landscapes that feel like another planet.

**Hallgrímskirkja** — The iconic concrete church visible from everywhere. Take the elevator to the top for a 360° view of the city's colourful rooftops, the harbour, and Mount Esja across the bay.

**Harpa** — The glass concert hall on the harbour. The honeycomb facade by Olafur Eliasson changes color with the light. Free to walk around inside.

**Laugavegur** — The main shopping street. Icelandic design shops (wool sweaters — _lopapeysa_), bookstores (Icelanders publish and read more books per capita than anyone), and the famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand. Get one with everything — "eina með öllu." Bill Clinton did.

The classic day trip, and for good reason:

- **Þingvellir National Park** — Walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Also the site of the world's oldest parliament (930 AD)

- **Geysir** — The original geyser that gave all others their name. Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes — have your camera ready

- **Gullfoss** — A massive two-tiered waterfall that seems to disappear into the earth. Walk the path to the edge for the full power of it

Iceland runs on geothermal energy, and soaking in hot water is the national pastime. The **Blue Lagoon** is famous for a reason — milky blue water in a lava field. Book weeks ahead. The **Sky Lagoon** is the stylish newcomer with an infinity edge overlooking the ocean.

For the local experience: any public swimming pool in Reykjavík has geothermal hot tubs. Laugardalslaug, Vesturbæjarlaug, and Sundhöllin are all heated year-round for about $8. No booking needed.