Holiday lettings & accommodation in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the one of the world’s smallest capital cities, and Iceland’s first permanent settlement: it was established by the Nordic settler Ingólfr Arnarson in AD 870. The Reykjavik Capital Area has a population of just over 200,000: that’s two-thirds of the entire population of the country. The city itself is home to just over 120,000 inhabitants, making it incredibly easy to get around on foot. To be right in the heart of the city, look for an apartment in the vibrant Downtown area, perfectly placed for getting home after an evening sampling Iceland’s famous nightlife. The main commercial street of Laugavegur is handy for amenities and offers a surprisingly good range of shops for a small city, from high street to designer. Book an apartment in the old town to enjoy the colourful picture-perfect buildings that Reykjavik is famous for, and plenty of cosy cafes and bars.

Start by exploring the old town - it is easily navigable on foot and a great way to get familiar with the city’s charming architecture, which is a mishmash of neoclassical and modern, along with unique wooden houses covered in brightly coloured corrugated iron. Climb up to the tower of Hallgrimskirkja Church, a local landmark situated on a hill, and a great spot for panoramic views of the city and ocean. The famous geothermal pools are an intrinsic part of Icelandic culture and an absolute must-visit. Relax with the locals at the Laugardalslaug pools in the city, or head out to Nautholsvík Thermal Beach where you can even swim into the Atlantic due to hot water being pumped out into the ocean. Reykjavik’s surrounding countryside has as much to offer as the city, and all visitors should book a day trip or two to one of the country’s many natural wonders such as the Gullfoss waterfalls or the Þingvellir National Park.

Iceland is responsible for some incredible dishes - and some that seem a little odd to an outsider. Meat eaters should track down some Hangiköt, or smoked lamb: free-range lamb that has been smoked over birch wood (and dried sheep dung - but it all adds to the flavour). It is traditionally served with potatoes, beetroot, bechamel sauce and peas. Fish lovers rejoice: Icelandic fish is so fresh it practically wiggles on the plate. Dried fish is also very popular - try Saltfiskur (salted, dried fish) or Harðfiskur (cold-dried, and almost jerky-like in texture). Ram’s testicles, boiled sheep head and cured shark are also local delicacies, but may be reserved for the braver tourists. Reykjavik is justifiably famous for its nightlife and there are music events every night of the week. Be warned: drinks are expensive, and clubs and bars don’t start getting crowded until around midnight. Pick up a copy of the English language Reykjavik Grapevine for full event listings of what’s happening during your visit.

Booking an apartment in central or downtown Reykjavik will mean most sights are reachable on foot. There is also an extensive bus network - but be aware that drivers don’t give out change, so be prepared with the correct amount. A Reykjavik Welcome Card is a good investment if you are intending on getting out and about by public transport, as it offers free bus travel as well as discounts on various museums. Renting a car is a popular option for visitors who want to explore the island at their own pace. The city is safe to cycle around, with only a few hills - though headwinds can be fierce. A scenic walking and cycling pathway encircles almost the whole city. Several ferries operate from the city and a summer-only ferry services takes passengers from Reykjavik to the island of Videy, where the ‘Imagine Peace Tower’ is located. Iceland’s small population and general friendliness of its people mean that hitchhiking is a popular way of getting around the island.