During the pandemic, downtown rents significantly dropped, leading to the emergence of numerous ambitious shops, cafes, and restaurants. This has resulted in a real sense of revitalization in the city. One of the newer additions is Plantan, a vegan cafe located near my favorite swimming pool. Their soups, sandwiches, and baked goods are exceptional, especially after a refreshing dip. Another personal favorite is Kaffi Ó-le, where Tom, the manager, serves the best coffee and matcha lattes in town.
In 2020, my childhood friends Númi, Atli, and Aðalsteinn opened a charming restaurant called Hosiló. With a focus on offering three main course options – fish, meat, and vegan dishes – they have delighted customers with their handmade and reasonably priced meals. Due to its small size, it is recommended to book a table in advance.
If you’re in search of inspiration, look no further than Marshall House, a cultural center housed in a former fish factory near the old harbor. The venue consists of two galleries under one roof. Kling & Bang, an artist-run gallery, showcases exhibitions by young artists from the underground scene as well as established names. Another grassroots institution, Nýló, the Living Art Museum, exhibits contemporary artworks. After indulging in delicious Italian food and drinks at La Primavera on the ground floor, head upstairs to be inspired by the art. Best of all, admission to both galleries is free. Don’t forget to keep an eye on Mengi, a fantastic venue hosting art events, concerts, and everything in between.
If you find yourself in the Grjótaþorp (Rock Village) neighborhood, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful old houses lining the narrow, cobbled streets. One notable house is Gröndal’s House, located at the corner of Fischersund and Mjóstræti. It was once home to artist and naturalist Benedikt Gröndal and now serves as a cultural house and artists’ residency. Regular events are advertised on the Reykjavik Unesco City of Literature website.
The local swimming pools are essential community gathering places in Iceland, offering an opportunity to soak in the hot tubs. The charming Sundhöllinn is Reykjavik’s oldest indoor pool, designed by the renowned architect Guðjón Samúelsson. Another great option is Vesturbæjarlaug, a picturesque 20-minute walk from Tjörnin lake. Don’t miss the chance to visit Nauthólsvik beach, where the sea water is geothermally heated. It boasts temperatures reaching 15-19°C in the summer, making it perfect for a swim in the human-made lagoon, followed by relaxation in the hot tubs, sand, and steam baths. Some locals even brave the winter for a refreshing dip.
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When it comes to green spaces, Heiðmörk is a must-visit destination. Located just 15 minutes’ drive beyond Reykjavik, it offers a forest, a beautiful lake, and numerous trails to explore amidst lava formations.
Reykjavík’s nightlife scene is unique due to the city’s size. Rather than having standalone clubs, bars often transform into lively club venues where people dance until the early hours. Röngten is one of my personal favorites, known for its excellent cocktails and the high probability of bumping into familiar faces. Mikki Refur, a cool wine bar, serves as a cafe during the day and transitions into a night spot offering natural wines and small plates. A similar concept can be found at Vínstúkan, where you can sample some remarkable wines.
Among the abundance of new upscale hotels, my heart lies with the timeless Hotel Holt (doubles from £290 room only). This establishment, which has been around since the 1960s, is adorned with beautiful artwork by renowned artists such as Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval. Another charming option is Reykjavík Treasure B&B (doubles from £220 B&B), attached to our store and run by the amazing Steinunn. It offers a cozy atmosphere and a prime location in the old town, allowing for easy exploration of interesting places like the Icelandic Phallological Museum. If you’re on a budget, consider KEX Hostel (doubles from £125), situated in a former biscuit factory along the waterfront. The hostel features a bar on the main floor, where local musicians and DJs showcase their talents.
Lilja Birgisdóttir, an artist and one of the owners of Fischersund, a family-run perfumery in Reykjavík, invites visitors to embark on a sensory experience with scent, sound, and art.
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