Icelandic Adventure: Exploring Reykjavik with Family

Sailing Through History and Light

Today in Reykjavik, I traded my gardening gloves for a mariner's compass and a stargazer's lens. It was a day of diving deep into Iceland's maritime past and reaching for the celestial wonder of the Northern Lights. Hans and I were both excited to explore these very different, yet equally captivating, facets of Icelandic culture.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Höfnin Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere and harbor views were the perfect way to start our Friday. I opted for a traditional Icelandic breakfast, eager to try some local flavors, while Hans, ever the reliable one, chose something a bit more familiar. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the Reykjavík Maritime Museum.


Explore the rich maritime history of Iceland at the Reykjavik Maritime Museum, where the sea's stories come alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.

The museum is housed in a former fish freezing plant, which immediately gave it an authentic, salty air. As someone who appreciates sustainable living, I was fascinated by the exhibits showcasing Iceland's fishing industry and its evolution over the years. From the early days of rowboats to the modern trawlers, it was incredible to see how the ocean has shaped Iceland's economy and way of life. Hans, with his engineering mind, was particularly interested in the mechanics of the ships and the fishing equipment. We spent a good amount of time exploring the Óðinn, a former coast guard vessel, and learned about its role in the Cod Wars. It was a vivid reminder of Iceland's determination to protect its resources.

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.

For lunch, we ventured to Seabaron, a quirky little restaurant in the old harbor known for its lobster soup. The place was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all huddled together at communal tables, enjoying the warmth of the soup. As Kristen Mackiewicz says, "DELICIOUS creamy lobster soup. Paired with a homemade roll and Icelandic butter, this is a mouthwatering combo that you can't miss." The soup was indeed heavenly, rich and flavorful, with generous chunks of lobster. It was the perfect comfort food for a chilly February day. I appreciated the restaurant's unpretentious atmosphere; it felt like stepping into a fisherman's hut, complete with fishing nets and nautical décor. Hans, who usually prefers a more formal setting, admitted that the soup was worth the casual ambiance. We skipped the whale meat kebabs, though. As an environmentally conscious person, I couldn't bring myself to support the consumption of whale meat.


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

After lunch, we decided to immerse ourselves in the magic of the Aurora Borealis at Aurora Reykjavík - The Northern Lights Center. While I am yet to see the real thing, I was intrigued by the science and mythology surrounding this natural phenomenon. The center offered a wealth of information, from the folklore of different cultures to the scientific explanations behind the lights. We watched a stunning time-lapse film of the Aurora dancing across the Icelandic sky, projected on a wide screen in 4K quality. It was breathtaking, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder.


Explore the wonders of the Northern Lights at Aurora Reykjavik, an interactive center showcasing stunning exhibits and unique souvenirs in the heart of the city.

The center also had a virtual reality experience that allowed us to get even closer to the Aurora. Slipping on the VR goggles, we were transported to a world of vibrant colors and celestial movement. It was an immersive experience that made me feel like I was actually witnessing the Northern Lights in person. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the technology behind the VR experience, while I was simply lost in the beauty of the lights.

As evening approached, we made our way to Sjavargrillid for dinner. The restaurant is known for its innovative seafood dishes and stylish ambiance. We decided to try the "Grill Party," a multi-course tasting menu that showcased the best of Icelandic seafood. Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. From the delicate scallops to the succulent cod, every bite was a delight.


Experience Iceland's culinary treasures at Sjávargrillið - where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in a cozy setting.

After such a full day, we decided to wind down with a drink at Lebowski Bar. Inspired by the cult classic film, the bar had a quirky and laid-back atmosphere. Hans ordered a White Russian, of course, while I opted for a local Icelandic beer. We listened to some classic tunes and soaked in the lively vibe of the bar. It was a fun and relaxing way to end our day.


Experience the charm of 'The Big Lebowski' at the Lebowski Bar in Reykjavík, where themed drinks and quirky decor come together for a unique nightlife experience.

Tomorrow, we're venturing out of Reykjavik to explore the Blue Lagoon and the Bridge Between Continents. I'm particularly excited about the Blue Lagoon; the idea of soaking in geothermal waters sounds incredibly relaxing. I am also planning on doing some shopping at the Saga Store, I am eager to find a cozy Icelandic sweater to remind me of this amazing trip.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel – the opportunity to learn, to experience new things, and to connect with different cultures. And, of course, to share those experiences with all of you. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I am really glad that we decided to leave our hotel, Guesthouse Sunna, and explore the city. The weather in Reykjavik in late February is quite chilly, but it didn't stop us from walking around and enjoying the day. It is nice to see some sun, since Berlin has been quite grey lately.


Experience the charm of Reykjavik at Guesthouse Sunna, where comfort meets convenience. Ideal for families and solo travelers alike!

I almost forgot to mention that today is Beer Day in Iceland! According to Grapevine events, there are a few concerts around the city. Maybe we will check one out tomorrow, if we have time. I know Hans would enjoy it.

I am looking forward to sharing more stories with you all soon!