Exploring Reykjavik: A Family Adventure in Iceland

A Final Day of Discovery

As our Icelandic adventure draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions. There's a sense of accomplishment for all we've seen and done, a tinge of sadness that it's ending, and an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. Today was all about soaking up the last bits of Reykjavik's culture and charm, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come.


The day started, as many of our mornings in Reykjavik did, with a visit to Te & Kaffi. Daniel and I have become quite fond of this cozy coffee shop, and today was no exception. I ordered my usual latte, and Daniel opted for a strong espresso. We also shared a couple of those delightful Icelandic-style donuts. It’s funny how a simple pastry can become a symbol of a place, but these donuts definitely remind me of our time here. It was a perfect way to kickstart our day, surrounded by the warm atmosphere and the comforting aroma of coffee.


After breakfast, we decided to immerse ourselves in the magic of the Aurora Reykjavik - The Northern Lights Center. Even though we didn't get to witness the real Northern Lights during our stay due to the time of year, this place was a fantastic alternative. The center offered a wealth of information about the science and mythology behind the Aurora Borealis. The interactive displays were engaging, and the stunning photographs and time-lapse videos of the lights dancing across the Icelandic sky were simply breathtaking. It was fascinating to learn about the cultural significance of the Northern Lights, from ancient Norse myths to contemporary interpretations. Daniel, with his data scientist's mind, was particularly intrigued by the scientific explanations, while I was captivated by the ethereal beauty captured in the photographs. It was a wonderful experience that brought us closer to understanding one of nature's most spectacular phenomena.


Discover the magic of the Northern Lights at Aurora Reykjavik, an interactive science museum showcasing the wonders of this natural phenomenon.

Travel is not about escaping life, but for life not to escape us.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to The National Gallery of Iceland. I was excited to see the collection of Icelandic and international art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The gallery is located in a beautiful building by the Tjörnin pond, and the setting itself was quite inspiring. We explored the various exhibitions, admiring the diverse range of art forms on display, from traditional landscapes to modern abstract pieces. I found myself particularly drawn to the works of Icelandic artists, as they offered a unique perspective on the country's cultural landscape and artistic journey. Daniel, on the other hand, was more interested in the international pieces, especially those by Pablo Picasso and Edvard Munch. It was interesting to see how different artists from different backgrounds and time periods could evoke such different emotions and interpretations. The gallery provided a serene and reflective atmosphere, allowing us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of art.


Explore Iceland's artistic heritage at the National Gallery, showcasing a diverse collection of local and international art in the heart of Reykjavik.

After our dose of art and culture, we decided to do some shopping at The Heart of Reykjavik. I had read about this charming gift shop on Laugavegur, and I was eager to find some unique souvenirs to take back home. The shop was indeed a treasure trove of locally made products, from handmade crafts to traditional Icelandic wool sweaters. I spent quite a bit of time browsing through the carefully curated items, admiring the craftsmanship and artistry of the local artisans. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted scarf for myself and a couple of quirky pieces of home decor as gifts for friends. The staff were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the items for sale and the artists behind them. It was a delightful shopping experience that allowed us to support local businesses and bring a piece of Iceland back home with us. I even found a small, hand-painted wooden bird that reminded me of the birds we saw at Lake Myvatn, a perfect memento.


Explore The Heart of Reykjavik, a charming gift shop featuring unique Icelandic souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that reflect the island's rich culture.

For lunch, we ventured to Sumac Grill + Drinks, a restaurant that had been recommended to us by several locals. The restaurant's menu is inspired by Middle Eastern and North African cuisine, and I was intrigued by the bold and exotic flavors. We decided to try a few different dishes to get a taste of everything. The grilled halloumi with honey and hazelnuts was a standout, as was the roasted cauliflower with tahini. The flavors were complex and well-balanced, and the presentation was impeccable. Daniel, who is always up for trying new things, was particularly impressed with the harissa-spiced lamb. The atmosphere of the restaurant was warm and inviting, and the staff were attentive and friendly. It was a culinary journey that transported us to another part of the world, right in the heart of Reykjavik. It was so good that I am now determined to try and recreate some of the dishes when we get back home to Bristol.


Discover flavorful grilled dishes at Sumac Grill + Drinks in Reykjavik's vibrant Miðborg area, blending local ingredients with international flair.

As the day wound down, we decided to treat ourselves to a final Icelandic dinner at Duck & Rose. This restaurant had been on my list since before we even left Bristol. The menu featured a fusion of French and Italian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. I opted for the crispy duck salad, while Daniel chose the pizza Margherita. Both dishes were delicious, and the atmosphere of the restaurant was cozy and inviting. We enjoyed a glass of wine with our meal, savoring the last moments of our Icelandic adventure. It was the perfect way to end our trip, surrounded by good food, good company, and the warm ambiance of a Reykjavik evening.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Iceland at Duck & Rose in Reykjavik—where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Iceland has exceeded all of my expectations, and I'm already dreaming of the day when we can return. From the stunning landscapes to the vibrant culture, from the delicious cuisine to the friendly people, Iceland has captured my heart in a way that few other places have. This trip has not only been a wonderful vacation but also a valuable learning experience for our family. We've learned about a new culture, a new way of life, and a new appreciation for the beauty and power of nature. And most importantly, we've created memories that will last a lifetime.


Tomorrow, we will be heading back to Bristol. It will be nice to get back to our own beds and routines, but I know that a part of me will always remain in Iceland. I'm excited to share our experiences with friends and family and to inspire others to embark on their own Icelandic adventures. And who knows, maybe one day we'll even make the move to this magical island. Until then, I'll continue to cherish the memories we've made and to dream of our return.


Goodbye for now, Reykjavik. Thank you for the adventure!