Icelandic Adventure: Exploring Reykjavik with Family

A Day of Discoveries in Reykjavik

Today marked the beginning of our Icelandic adventure, and what a start it was! Reykjavik greeted us with a crisp, cold air – around 0°C, I believe – a stark contrast to Berlin's relatively mild winter. Bundled in our warmest layers, Hans and I, along with the family, set out to explore this captivating city. I must admit, I was slightly worried about forgetting the travel adapter, but luckily, I managed to find one at the airport.

Our first stop was the iconic Hallgrimskirkja. Rising majestically above the city, its unique architecture immediately captured my attention. The design, inspired by Iceland's basalt columns, is truly breathtaking. It reminded me of the basalt columns I'd seen pictures of at Svartifoss waterfall. The church's towering presence is visible from almost anywhere in the city, a testament to Guðjón Samúelsson's vision. We took the lift to the top of the tower, and the panoramic view of Reykjavik was simply stunning. The colorful houses, the vast ocean, and the distant mountains created a picturesque scene that I know I will cherish forever. I could see how the design was meant to depict the mountains and glaciers of Iceland. It was quite windy up there!. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the engineering, while I was lost in the sheer beauty of the landscape.


Explore Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik's iconic church, featuring stunning architecture, serene interiors, and breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

From the heights of Hallgrimskirkja, we descended into the vibrant heart of Reykjavik's Rich Street Art scene. Wandering through the city's streets, we were immediately immersed in a kaleidoscope of colors and creativity. The murals told stories, sparked conversations, and added a unique charm to the city. We strolled along Laugavegur, where many walls served as canvases for talented artists. I was particularly struck by a mural on the corner of Laugavegur and Klappastígur. The vibrant artwork transformed ordinary buildings into extraordinary landmarks. I learned that initiatives like the Wall Poetry project have played a significant role in revitalizing Reykjavik's urban spaces, turning neglected areas into vibrant cultural hubs. The blend of art and urban life was so inspiring, reminding me of the community gardens I work on back in Berlin, transforming dull city spaces into vibrant green havens.


Discover the colorful and captivating street art of Reykjavik, a vibrant expression of the city's culture and creativity waiting to be explored.

Reykjavik is a city where art and nature intertwine, creating a unique and inspiring experience for every traveler.

Next, we sought artistic inspiration of a different kind at the Reykjavik Art Museum Hafnarhus. Housed in a former harbor warehouse, the museum was home to a diverse collection of contemporary art. I was particularly excited to see the works of Erró, the Icelandic pop artist. His comic strip-inspired art was both thought-provoking and visually stimulating. The museum itself was a great space, and it was easy to navigate. The building's history as a warehouse added another layer of interest to the experience. I found myself drawn to the bold colors and unconventional themes, a stark contrast to the serene landscapes we had witnessed earlier in the day. We learned that a ticket is valid for 24 hours, so you can visit all three locations. I made a mental note to visit the other two locations soon.


Explore Reykjavik Art Museum Hafnarhus, a vibrant hub of contemporary art showcasing Icelandic and international talent in a stunning waterfront setting.

By this point, our stomachs were beginning to rumble, so we decided to immerse ourselves in Reykjavik's culinary scene. For breakfast, we ventured to Café Loki, situated right across from Hallgrímskirkja. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Icelandic fare were exactly what we needed to start our day. I opted for the Icelandic Plate Loki, a sampler of rye bread slices with mashed fish, smoked trout, smoked lamb, and dried fish with butter. While Hans enjoyed a hearty portion of meat soup. It was a culinary adventure that introduced us to the unique flavors of Iceland. The staff were incredibly friendly, explaining each dish with enthusiasm. I even tried the rye bread ice cream, which was surprisingly delicious!. I felt like I was experiencing a true taste of Iceland, a perfect blend of comfort and culinary curiosity.


Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Café Loki in Reykjavik, where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.

Lunch took us to Icelandic Street Food, a cozy spot known for its authentic, home-cooked meals. The all-you-can-eat concept was very appealing, especially with a hungry family in tow. I savored the traditional lamb soup served in a crusty sourdough bread bowl, while Hans opted for the Fisherman's Favorite, a hearty fish stew. The warm, comforting flavors were perfect for a chilly February day. What I appreciated most was the friendly atmosphere and the sense of community. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, sharing a meal with friends. The staff was so friendly, they showed me a wall where they collect different currencies from around the world, cracked jokes, sang along with their playlist, and chatted with all the patrons. The happy marriage cake was also delicious!.


Discover authentic flavors at Icelandic Street Food in Reykjavik – your gateway to traditional Icelandic cuisine awaits.

Before dinner, we explored Reykjavik boutique (Reykjavik treats). The shop was a treasure trove of local specialties and handcrafted souvenirs. I was immediately drawn to the handcrafted jewelry and the locally sourced gourmet treats. Every corner of the shop exuded warmth and creativity. The friendly staff shared stories behind their products, adding a personal touch to the shopping experience. It was the perfect place to find unique gifts and mementos, a tangible reminder of our Icelandic adventure. I picked up a few small items, including some hand-knitted wool socks and a jar of local jam. The store is located near many attractions, making it easy to visit.


Explore Reykjavik Boutique, your destination for unique Icelandic artisanal treats and crafts in the heart of Reykjavik.

As evening approached, we made our way to Old Iceland for dinner. The restaurant's name was a promise of traditional Icelandic cuisine, and it did not disappoint. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, with a touch of rustic charm. I chose the Arctic char, while Hans indulged in the lamb ribeye. The dishes were expertly prepared, highlighting the fresh, local ingredients. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to Iceland's culinary heritage. The Old Iceland restaurant has gained a dedicated following since it opened in 2014, and I can see why. I highly recommend the rhubarb cake!. The restaurant was relatively small, making for a cozy atmosphere.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Old Iceland – where tradition meets taste in the heart of Reykjavik.

Today has been a whirlwind of experiences, a sensory journey through the heart of Reykjavik. From the architectural marvel of Hallgrímskirkja to the vibrant street art, from the artistic expressions at Reykjavik Art Museum Hafnarhus to the culinary delights at Café Loki, Icelandic Street Food and Old Iceland, every moment has been a discovery. As I reflect on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this unique city with my family. I am also excited about tomorrow's itinerary, which includes visits to The Settlement Exhibition, the National Museum of Iceland, and the Sun Voyager. I am particularly looking forward to visiting Skúli Craft bar.

The weather in Reykjavik in February is unpredictable, but that's part of its charm. We experienced a mix of sunshine, clouds, and a light drizzle, but nothing could dampen our spirits. The average temperature is around 0°C, so dressing in layers is essential. I am looking forward to what tomorrow brings, and I am excited to share more of our Icelandic adventure with you.

“Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.”