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8 Days in Reykjavik: A Journey of Whales, Art, and Natural Wonders

Benjamin Greiner

Benjamin Greiner

3 Jan 2024

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Reykjavik, Iceland's vibrant capital. Discover the majestic Whales of Iceland, delve into the city's maritime history at the Reykjavík Maritime Museum, and marvel at the grandeur of the Cathedral of Christ the King. Immerse yourself in art and culture, relax in geothermal pools, and soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Sky Lagoon. Get ready for an extraordinary experience in the land of fire and ice!

Day 1Whales, Maritime History, and Divine Architecture
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$0

Whales of Iceland
Educational exhibit dedicated to regional whales, with life-sized models & interactive features.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
4 - 6 min

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Directions

Reykjavík Maritime Museum
Maritime museum in a former fish factory with historic ships & exhibits on local fishing industry.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Cathedral of Christ the King
Built in 1929, this Neo-Gothic Roman Catholic cathedral was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Free
Day 2Geothermal Pools, Art Masterpieces, and a Voyage to the Sun
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$ 5

Vesturbæjarlaug
Outdoor geothermal swimming pools, including one for kids, plus a steam room, sauna & hot tubs.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
8 - 10 min

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Directions

Reykjavík Art Museum Hafnarhús
Modern former home of artist Ásmundur Sveinsson featuring many of his sculptures.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
12 - 17 min

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Directions

Sun Voyager
Huge 1990 stainless-steel sculpture of a boat by Jón Gunnar Árnason, set on granite beside the sea.
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
Free
Day 3Unveiling the Saga, Settling the Past, and Artistic Treasures
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Saga Museum
Lifelike figures depict Iceland's history at this museum where visitors can don Viking costumes.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Free
9 - 14 min

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Directions

The Settlement Exhibition
Remnants of 10th-century Viking settlements in Reykjavik are preserved in this interactive museum.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Free
6 - 9 min

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Directions

The National Gallery of Iceland
Art museum highlighting works by Icelandic & international artists from the 19th & 20th centuries.
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Free
Day 4Iconic Landmarks, Musical Marvels, and Nordic Charm
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$ 5

Hallgrimskirkja
Inspired by Icelandic traditions, this modern cathedral, consecrated in 1986, has a 73m-high tower.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Free
11 - 16 min

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Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre
Modern glass honeycomb concert hall & conference center, home to the national opera & symphony.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
8 - 10 min

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Nordic House
Nordic cultural center with modern design for exhibits & events, plus a library, shop & restaurant.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Free
Day 5Wildlife Encounters and Artistic Inspiration
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Reykjavík Park and Zoo
Small zoo with a focus on Icelandic farm animals, plus children's rides such as a carousel & train.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Reykjavík Art Museum Ásmundarsafn
Modern art museum & sculpture garden in the former studio of Icelandic sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson.
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Free
Day 6Geothermal Oasis and a Journey to the Past
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$ 5

Laugardalslaug
Heated year-round outdoor pool complex featuring hot tubs, a botanical garden & a small zoo.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
11 - 14 min

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Directions

Árbær Open Air Museum
Relocated old houses, a farm & other displays tracing the history, culture & folklore of Reykjavik.
10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Free
Day 7Panoramic Views, Artistic Gems, and Cultural Delights
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$0

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$ 5

Perlan
Futuristic revolving glass-domed fine dining restaurant in park setting, with cocktail bar.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
7 - 9 min

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Directions

Reykjavík Art Museum Kjarvalsstaðir
Museum with modern paintings & sculptures by well-known Icelandic artists, plus a cafe & gift shop.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
Day 8Surrender to Serenity at the Sky Lagoon
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$0

Sky Lagoon
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Free

Budget breakdown: $17 In total

Activities & Food:Free
Transport:$17