Icelandic Tourist Board

Every city has its own individuality, and Reykjavík is no exception. Reykjavik’s uniqueness lies in its being a small city that offers a wealth of possibilities generally expected only of major population centers.

The heart of Reykjavík beats in midtown, and a myriad of interesting and exciting sights and pleasures are all within walking distance. One of the center’s characteristics is the diverse range of coffeehouses, each with its own charm and colorful clientele, from intellectual and artistic bohemian to fashion-conscious trendy - and lots in between. Of course there is also some great gourmet coffee on offer, made with water that just doesn’t get any better.

Kaffi Tár on Bankastræti 8 offers a delicious range of freshly ground coffee. Te og Kaffi is a cozy shop and coffeehouse located a short stroll east on Laugavegur 27. Súfistinn, on the 2nd floor of the Mál og menning bookstore on Laugavegur 18, is a book and magazine coffeehouse. Mokka kaffi on Skólavörðustígur 3a is the oldest coffeehouse in Reykjavík - and hasn’t changed since opening in 1957. These coffeehouses are all located within a three-minute’s walk of each other, and all boast their own particular ambiance that attracts their own particular crowd.

Skólavörðustígur is one of the city’s most attractive streets, stretching from Hallgrímskirkja church that towers majestically over midtown, to Laugavegur, Iceland's main shopping street. Standing protectively in front of the 73-meter high church is a statue of Leifur Eiriksson, the Viking who discovered America. For those looking to get a great overview of the city and beyond, an elevator to Hallgrímskirkja’s steeple awaits you.

Sometimes called the ‘arts and crafts street,’ Skólavörðustígur is home to a variety of interesting art galleries and shops selling Icelandic creations. At Skólavörðustígur 19 is the Handknitting Association of Iceland, offering a wide selection of original Icelandic sweaters and other woolen goods. Anyone with a taste for gourmet delicacies should drop by Ostabúðin at number 8, which stocks a good selection of Icelandic specialty foods. Sandwiches, hot soup and light dishes are available at lunchtime.

The National Einar Jónsson Museum on Njarðargata (adjacent to Hallgrímskirkja church) displays a collection of sculptures by one of the country’s most unique artists. The works remind one of the power and mystique of Icelandic nature, and of Iceland's storytelling tradition.

All Reykjavík tourists must experience swimming - Icelandic style. Sundhöllin on Barónsstígur, an architectural beauty, houses the city’s largest indoor pool. There are also two outdoor hot pots that are great for relaxing regardless of air temperature, and a small steam room. This is a wonderful way to do something really different during your midtown visit.

Both Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur are home to many jewelry workshops and stores. Icelandic jewelry has its own special style, much of which reflects some of country’s national characteristics. There are also many trendy shops displaying a wide range of exciting fashions - Icelandic and foreign - at reasonable prices. Some world famous labels have price tags that are lower than in major cities. And the annual September and January sales are rich in bargains, so much so that a trip to Iceland during these times would pay for itself in savings.

Yet perhaps the most enjoyable of all is just strolling around the midtown area, the oldest part of Reykjavík. The houses are colorfully painted and people are bustling with activity. And it’s easy to meet the people of Reykjavík as most everyone speaks English.

So… why not discover Reykjavík? It’s a small city with a big heart.