Reykjavik

Reykjavik

The city of Reykjavík is in southwest Iceland on Faxaflói Bay. Over the ages, glaciers, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions have shaped the landscape, and the area is geothermal, hence its name "Smoky Bay". In spite of its small population, Reykjavík is a bustling city that attracts a growing number of tourists each year. Known as one of the cleanest and safest cities in the world, Reykjavík is the financial, cultural and political center of Iceland. Peninsulas, bays, straits and islands, especially the island of Viðey, form the city's coastline, and birds and whales frequent the shoreline. Mount Esjan is the most prominent feature of the coastline and the highest mountain in the vicinity of Reykjavík. This majestic peak is also much loved by trekkers and mountaineers. Elliðaá in the Elliðaárdalur valley, one of Iceland's best rivers for salmon fishing, is the largest river flowing through the city. Austurvöllur public square, where you'll find the National Parliament, Alþingi, the State Church, a statue of independence hero Jón Sigurðsson, cafés, bars and restaurants, is one of the city's most popular meeting places. Other popular sights in Reykjavik include Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center, the Sun Voyager sculpture, the National Museum of Iceland, the Reykjavik City Museum and the Perlan Museum. Many of Iceland's major attractions, most notably the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon, are within a short drive of the city. Nearby, you'll also find Heiðmörk Nature Reserve, a favorite spot for Reykjavík residents, as well as the Blue Mountains, one of Iceland's best ski areas.