Iceland - Part 1

Sólfar

I suppose my visit to Iceland divides into two parts. First, exploring Reykjavík, where I stayed for all of my 5 nights. Secondly, my excursions out of the city.

Well first things first. Reykjavik.

I stayed in an apartment (Airbnb) on Laugalækur, at the start of the suburbs to the east of the city centre. It was very close to Laugardalur, or "Hot Springs Valley" which used to produce all the city's hot water. Now it is a laid back park, with botanic gardens and lots of sports facilities.

A choice of three bicycles came with the flat, and a nearby cycle path took me downtown in 10-15 minutes.

Laugardalur

Ideal, weather permitting. As an alternative, the city bus passed by just 100m away. I used it once

As far as sightseeing is concerned, I had a good wander around and found a relaxed and pleasant place. It was easy tp spend time doing nothing. I visited the national museum and its two sister exhibitions - the Culture House and Ásgrímur Jónsson Collection.

National Museum

I often use a national or city museum to get my bearings about a new place.

Culture House

Hallgrímskirkja is an attraction to visit, partly because it dominates the skyline from its hilltop location.

Ásgrímur Jónsson Collection

In terms of eating, like everything else Iceland is expensive. Super expensive. I estimate it is about double British prices. As I was on my own, and bearing in mind the cost, I skipped the restaurant scene.

The city has lots to offer in terms of fast food and street food. My highlight was fish soup in Icelandic Street Food. Delicious. Afterwards, I discovered my guidebook (Lonely Planet) agrees.

Thermal Vents, Ingólfstorg

Close behind came Fish and Chips Vagninn. I was tempted by Icelandic fish and chips. It was fantastic. Part of the attraction was a beautiful sunny evening, so I was able to eat outside on their picnic benches. By coincidence, my guidebook also agreed on that one.

I always enjoy it when I find a super place for myself and then find it is highly rated in the guidebooks!

Monument to the Unknown Bureaucrat

For a flavour - groan - of prices, at the cafe in the museum I had a slice of quiche, a piece of cake and a cappuccino. It cost me 2,990 ISK. That’s £19.90 (€22.20). I reckon that is about double what it would have been back home.

Top Prices

My fish & chips rang the till at 1,790 ISK (£11.90/€12.60).

Reykjavik is not a city I would travel to visit for its own sake, but as part of a visit to Iceland it is well worth setting aside a day or two for.