Introduction to Reykjavik, Iceland

city view of Reykjavik, Iceland

The most northern capital in the world, Reykjavik--pronounced “Ray-kah-vik”--gets plenty of sometimes-sulphur-stinky hot water from the ground.  Though small, it is one of Europe’s party capitals and is filled with lively techno and rock bars and has plenty of cool cafes and trendy restaurants.  Crisp, clean air makes it memorable.

purple WOW airline offices in Reykjavik, Iceland

A half day on foot lets you can see the main sights downtown, which include colorful architecture and street art graffiti.  The old center is European quaint, with cobblestones and winding streets (unfortunately, a fire there in 1913 destroyed many old wood buildings).

city view of Reykjavik, Iceland

Surprisingly, Reykjavik is not only the closest European city to New York but is also generally warmer in January than New York.  Perhaps not such a surprise, since it has almost 40 publishing houses, is that it was named a UNESCO City of Literature in 2011.

More things to do in Reykjavik.

Things to do in Iceland's Northeast.

More ideas for exploring Europe.

images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers