Whether you are planning to visit Reykjavik, Iceland, for a short vacation or a longer one, you should know what to see and what to do in this vibrant city. Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and the largest city in the country. You can find museums here, including the National Museum, the Phallological Museum, and the Saga Museum.
Hallgrimskirkja
Located in the heart of the Icelandic capital, Hallgrimskirkja is one of the most famous landmarks in Reykjavik. It has become the symbol of the city and the most visited site in Iceland. It's a popular spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the beautiful view of the city. The church tower is also a popular photo location.
The interior of the church features a huge pipe organ. Built by the German organ builder Johannes Klais of Bonn, the organ has over 5,000 pipes. The organ weighs 25 metric tons and is 15 meters tall. This organ is funded by private donations.
The Hallgrimskirkja Church is a Lutheran church. It is the tallest church in Iceland. The church tower stands at 73 meters high. It's the highest point in Reykjavik and offers a panoramic view of the city.
Harpa
Located in Reykjavik, Iceland, Harpa is a concert hall and conference center. Its glass facade features honeycomb panels that reflect the light of the sky. This gives the building a distinctive look. It also provides a great view of the city.
The construction of the Harpa began in 2007. It was designed by the Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson and the Danish firm Henning Larsen Architects. The building was inspired by the shapes of volcanic rocks.
The building has won a number of design awards. It was named one of the ten best buildings in the world by Architectural Digest Magazine in 2010.
It is a modern building with a striking facade. The building is composed of a steel framework holding 714 glass panels. When the lights are switched on, the structure becomes a shimmering kaleidoscope of color. This is an effect that is quite magical.
Phallological Museum
Located in Reykjavik, Iceland, the Phallological Museum is an interesting place to learn about male genitalia. It houses hundreds of penises and testicles of all types of animals. The museum also has a gift shop and a restaurant where you can enjoy specialty dishes and craft beers.
The phallological museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Reykjavik, as well as being a major attraction for tourists from abroad. The museum has a special collection of phalluses and genitalia of a wide variety of mammals, including elephants, whales, dolphins, and seals. Visitors can examine specimens from polar bears, walruses, and rams.
The Phallological Museum is unique because it houses over 220 penises, testicles, and genitals from various species of mammals, as well as folklore pieces. In addition to its extensive collection of penises, the museum displays a selection of artifacts and artistic oddments. The museum welcomes approximately 12,000 visitors each year.
Secret Lagoon
Located in the Golden Circle of Iceland, Secret Lagoon is one of the most iconic attractions in the country. Unlike the Blue Lagoon, which caters to tourists, Secret Lagoon is more of a local destination. It is also one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland, built in 1891.
In addition to the pool, Secret Lagoon has a small cafe, boardwalks around the pool, and changing rooms with lockers. The water temperature stays at 38-40 degrees all year long.
This is a great place to watch the northern lights. It's located near the geothermal area of Geysir and the Gullfoss waterfall. It's also home to a miniature geyser, which erupts every few minutes.
The Secret Lagoon also has an airborne steam feature. Guests are also treated to a bubble experience, which is an overnight stay in a re-usable bubble. The pools water is also one of the cleanest in the country, replenishing at a rate of 10 litres per second.
Thorsmok
Located in the southern part of Icelandic highlands, Thorsmok is a mountain range with awe-inspiring views of glaciers and waterfalls. The secluded location makes it one of the most popular hiking destinations in Iceland.
There are various day tours that depart from Reykjavik. During the summer months, special mountain buses make multiple trips to Thorsmork each day. Alternatively, you can hire a Super Jeep from a 4x4 agency. They can be picked up at any of the Thorsmork campsites. The Super Jeeps have huge wheels and can get you to places that a normal car can't.
The hiking trails in Thorsmork range in difficulty and distance. Most hikes are easy. Some can lead to volcanoes or waterfalls. You can pitch a tent at the campsites or stay overnight in the Volcano Huts.