Reykjavik was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to, and I definitely plan to go back someday! Here are the top five things you absolutely cannot miss while you are there.
1. Blue Lagoon
You must check out this beautiful manmade geothermal spa. The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal which is heated by the lava field it resides in. The spring has been said to have “healing waters” because of the high sulfur and silica content. Along with the healing waters, Blue Lagoon supplies spa-goers with tubs of silica which is great for acne and other skin problems.
If you are planning on visiting, get tickets early, as this is one of Reykjavik’s most popular attractions!
2. Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral
This unique cathedral is a must-see while in Reykjavik. This unique building took 40 years to complete and is the tallest church in the entire country. Fun fact: it is pronounced: Hal (as in pal) grim (as in him) skyr (say it like skiers) kya (say it like kah) (Pronuciation via Marcus who is a local guide on Google Maps).
Photo via Lazy Penguin
3. Literally Any Waterfall
Okay, there are a few greatest hits here. My personal favorite was the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. This waterfall is unique mainly because of its size, but also because you can walk behind it to see the 8th wonder of the world: the backside of water! (That's a Disneyland/Jungle Cruise joke, props if you got it).
Disclaimer, the Seljalandsfoss waterfall is probably closed during the winter as it can be treacherous.
Honorable waterfall mentions:
Gullfoss, Skogafoss, Glymur
4. Drink from the Springs, Lakes and Tap
Not only can you drink the tap water in Iceland, but you can actually drink from every body of water that isn't muddy or sea water. Seriously. I can't remember the stat, but it's something like 99% pure. Our Icelandic friend literally handed us cups and told us we could drink straight out of this natural spring. Crazy!
5. Cook bread in the Ground
Since most of Iceland is in a lava field, you can literally bake bread just by burying in the ground! Icelanders make the dough, put it in a big pot, dig a hole, and stick it in the ground. This process is known as "geothermal baking."
Watch a video about it here.
What I would do next time:
I would go during the peak of the Northern Lights, aka Aurora Borealis. They are best seen from September to April. According to Guide to Iceland, the lights are actually "energetically charged particles collide with atoms in high altitude atmospheres, and this solar wind is directed into the atmosphere by the Earth's magnetic field." They are commonly thought of as the fluorescent green lights in the sky.
I would also go see the Puffins. They are the cutest and I'm super sad I only met a "stuffed" one.
Have questions about Reykjavik? Leave us a comment!
