Exploring Reykjavik: A Family Adventure in Iceland

Sky-High Adventures and Seafood Feasts in Reykjavik

Today was all about seeing Reykjavik from new heights and indulging in some local culinary treasures. Daniel and I, along with the family, embarked on a day filled with panoramic views, immersive experiences, and delightful tastes. It was a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, making it a memorable day in our Icelandic adventure.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Café Babalú. The quirky decor and cozy atmosphere were just what we needed to kickstart our morning. I opted for the traditional Icelandic pancakes, while Daniel enjoyed a classic breakfast sandwich. The kids loved the colorful surroundings, and we all appreciated the friendly service. It's a charming little spot that truly captures the spirit of Reykjavik.

After breakfast, we headed to Perlan, an iconic building that I'd spotted from various points around the city. Perlan, which translates to 'The Pearl' in English, is located on top of Öskjuhlíð hill. What was once just a cluster of hot water tanks has been transformed into a fascinating museum and observation center. The architecture itself is striking, with a glass dome resting atop the six water tanks. Four of these tanks are still in use, while the others house incredible exhibits.


Discover the essence of Iceland's natural history at Perlan, where science meets breathtaking views in Reykjavik.

We started our exploration inside, diving into the Wonders of Iceland exhibit. It was amazing to learn about the country's geological history and natural phenomena through interactive displays. The kids were particularly fascinated by the replica of Látrabjarg Cliff, a ten-meter-high structure that perfectly mimicked one of Europe's largest seabird cliffs. The Ice Cave was another highlight. Walking through a real ice tunnel, created from tons of ice and ash, was a chilling experience—literally and figuratively! Daniel, ever the data scientist, was engrossed in the interactive displays about glaciers and their impact on the landscape.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

But the real treat was the 360° observation deck. From the top, we were treated to an uninterrupted panorama of Reykjavik and its surroundings. The views were simply breathtaking. We could see the city sprawling beneath us, with colorful buildings and bustling streets. In the distance, the mountains loomed majestically, and the Atlantic Ocean stretched out as far as the eye could see. It was a perfect spot for photos, and we spent a good amount of time capturing the stunning scenery. It was easy to see why Perlan is referred to as Reykjavik's crown jewel.

Next on our itinerary was FlyOver Iceland, an immersive flight simulation experience located in the Grandi district. Having already learned so much about Iceland's landscapes at Perlan, I was excited to experience them in a completely new way. Before the 'flight,' we were treated to pre-ride shows that explored the roles of nature, time, and humankind in Iceland. These shows were captivating, combining music, animation, and video to tell the stories of volcanoes, glaciers, Vikings, and trolls.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Iceland through an exhilarating ride at FlyOver Iceland, a must-visit attraction for every traveler.

The main event was the flight simulation itself. We were strapped into seats that moved in sync with the visuals on a massive spherical screen. As the film whisked us away on an exhilarating journey across Iceland, special effects like wind, mist, and scents heightened the sense of immersion. It truly felt like we were soaring over mountains, glaciers, and fjords. The kids were giggling with delight as we swooped and dived through the landscapes. Daniel was impressed by the state-of-the-art technology, commenting on how realistic the experience felt.

After our high-flying adventure, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Seabaron, a restaurant renowned for its lobster soup. Located in an old fisherman's hut in the harbor area, Seabaron exudes a rustic charm. The interior is simple and unpretentious, with wooden tables and nautical decor. We ordered bowls of the famous lobster soup, along with grilled fish skewers. The soup was rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. The fish skewers were equally delicious, featuring fresh seafood grilled to perfection. It was a satisfying and comforting meal, perfect for a chilly Icelandic day. Daniel, always the seafood enthusiast, declared it one of the best lobster soups he'd ever had.


Experience authentic Icelandic seafood at Seabaron – where fresh catches meet local flavors in a cozy Reykjavík setting.

With our bellies full, we decided to indulge in some shopping. Thorvaldsens Bazar, a charming boutique located in the city center, was our destination. This bazaar is known for its unique souvenirs, artisanal crafts, and local designs. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by an eclectic array of items, ranging from handmade jewelry to traditional Icelandic wool products. I was particularly drawn to the hand-knitted sweaters, while the kids were captivated by the wooden toys. It was a pleasure to browse through the store, discovering treasures that reflected the creativity and spirit of Iceland.


Explore the unique offerings of Thorvaldsens Bazar, a boutique in Reykjavík featuring authentic Icelandic crafts and gifts.

Thorvaldsens Bazar has a rich history, dating back over 115 years. It was founded to provide a place for Icelandic women to sell their handicrafts and support charitable causes. Today, the bazaar continues to uphold this tradition, with profits going towards helping children in need. Knowing that our purchases were contributing to a good cause made the shopping experience even more meaningful. I picked up a beautiful hand-knitted scarf as a souvenir, while Daniel found a unique piece of jewelry for his mother.

For dinner, we had made reservations at Punk Restaurant, but I discovered upon arrival that it had closed down. Apparently, it had been replaced by a French restaurant. So we had to quickly find an alternative. We ended up at a nearby restaurant. While it wasn't what we had initially planned, we enjoyed the experience and the food.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning a trip to Viðey Island, which I'm really looking forward to. We're also going to try out Reykjavik Escape, which should be a fun and challenging experience for the whole family. For dinner, we've booked a table at Apotek Restaurant, which I've heard great things about. And perhaps Daniel and I will sneak off for a drink at Skúli Craft Bar.

Today was a reminder of how much Reykjavik has to offer. From the panoramic views at Perlan to the immersive experience at FlyOver Iceland, every moment was filled with wonder and delight. And with the family by my side, it was an experience I'll cherish forever. As we head into the final days of our trip, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible city and create lasting memories with my loved ones.

As I sit here, reflecting on the day, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Reykjavik has a way of captivating the soul, and I'm grateful for every moment I've spent here. With just a few days left, I'm determined to make the most of our time and soak in as much of this incredible city as possible.