If you fancy long days and balmy temperatures at this time of year then take a visit to Reykjavich, Iceland’s capital. It’s also the best time to experience the midnight sun phenomena. Flights from the UK in August are currently starting from £150 return, so depending how flexible you are on timing, you could get a reasonable deal.
The city itself has plenty to offer for a short break, but Reykjavich is also the entry point onto some of the natural wonders that Iceland has to offer.
At this time of year you won’t see the Northern Lights but the roads will be clear and suitable for driving so you could take your time. The famous Golden Circle which is a well trodden route covering Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall can also be explored in a day.
I’ve shortlisted a few other recommendations, to help with planning to visit Reykjavich, all are open year round.
In the city:
Hallgrímskirkja – this 73m high church in the centre of the city has a great 360 degree view from the tower which opens until 20:30 during the summertime (17:00 in the winter months).
Reykjavíkurtjörn – Reykjavík’s Pond, better known as Tjörnin consists of 5 water bodies. It’s a great place for bird watching in the warmer months. In winter it freezes and provides many ice skating opportunities.
Viðey Island – walk or bike around and explore this island and it’s many trails. The ferry runs daily during the summer and then at weekends during the winter time.
With water:
Nauthólsvík Geothermal beach – popular in the summer months due to the heated water but also an interesting place to visit in winter.
Blue Lagoon – perhaps this is where the Icelandic people get their young looking skin. I personally found it a great place to relax for a few hours but these days it’s a bit more touristy and necessary to book.
Other hot springs – there are many other hot springs open to visitors. This post covers a few suggestions.
Museums
The list of museums is endless and I’d personally save these for the winter time when the temparatures are much much colder. Check out some recommendations here, including a Penis museum!
Don’t miss
Mount Esja – even non hikers will enjoy the short trail just out of the city centre, as it offers great views. It can be attempted all year round (with caution), but of course the summer months are recommended.
View from Mt Esja
Kolaportið – weekend flea market near the harbour, which is one of the best places for souvenirs including the famous lopapeysa sweater.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur – lamb hot dogs from a stand aren’t the first thing you consider as a highlight from a trip, but I remember my Icelandic friend taking me here because it was quick and cheap. That was more than 10 years ago and it wasn’t busy in February. Today the queues can be long, whatever the time of year.
Horse riding – apparently Icelandic horses have unique gaits. That’s ways of walking. I certainly found them very cute and definitely unique. There are many places to experience horse riding in Reykjavich, so definitely look this one up.
Icelandic horse
Street art – of course, with my Street Art obsession I would recommend this. Like many other cities around the world, a lot of the art work was created during a number of collaborative events and has evolved to well beyond the world of grafitti.
Did you visit Reykjavich already, got recommendations to share? I’m definitely heading back sometime, so will be interested to see what other highlights are suggested.
