A city with just over 100 thousand inhabitants, Reykjavik, which means “Smokey Bay” sits on the southwest coast of Iceland and holds the distinction for being the world’s most northernmost capital. Reykjavik is the country’s center for culture, commerce, and government. It is also the country’s top tourist destination.
Reykjavik is a vibrant happening little metro set against the backdrop of nature. Indeed, natural wonders such as lush and vibrant valleys and powerful waterfalls are only a few minutes away from the modern structures and young vibrancy of the city. The city is clean and unpolluted, making walks along its clean and airy parks, past art galleries and high-end restaurants and boutiques a favorite activity of the locals and travelers. The downtown area can be traversed in a span of an hour and a half. But for a unique experience, weave in and out of the city’s side streets, arriving at Laugavegur and going past Bankastraeti, and finally ending at Shoreditch of Reykjavík, to discover the beauty of the city’s houses distinguished by their cheerful colors and corrugated tin roofs.
What makes the city different from other tourist cities is that travelers can immerse themselves in the everyday lives of its people while enjoying the tourist comforts that it offers. Walking is the primary mode of getting around. Traveling by car can be made even more enjoyable if one takes it to the outskirts of the city, where one can get a spectacular view of the city at the Perlan. Buses are clean and convenient although a tad expensive. Going by bicycle is another enjoyable way of getting around, as bicycle lanes crisscross the city and its parks. The best time to visit the city is from June to August.
US tourists do not need a visa for entering Reykjavik for business or for personal travel. This applies for stays that will last for no longer than 90 days. A valid passport, proof of return or onward travel, and proof of sufficient funds for stay are all that are needed.