Best of Reykjavík Activities 2020: Best Day Trip

So, you finally checked one off the bucket list and arrived in Iceland. Velkomin! But what now? Reykjavík is bustling with activities, from steamy swimming pools to world-renowned galleries to more historical sites than you can name. And the city’s diversity has only increased with the development of tourism—now you’ll find ambitious arthouse theatre in English and interactive tech museums dotting the streets. For those looking to get out of the capital, it’s surrounded by gorgeous hiking, plentiful picnic spots, and more. So what’s one to do to fully take advantage of the city? Presenting: the 2020 Grapevine Best Of Reykjavík Activities awards. Hey—when in Reykjavík, listen to the Reykjavíkingur.

Best Day Trip

Reykjanes Bound!

…Reykjanes

Reykjanes is, unfortunately, often overlooked by tourists. We honestly can’t fathom why, as the area is chock full of beautiful lava fields, steamy hot springs, and some great local pools. Not to mention, it’s only a short drive from Reykjavík. Our reccs? Stop by the Reykjanes Lighthouse, Brimketill rock pool, and end the day with a swim at the Grindavík swimming pool and a bowl of lobster soup at Bryggjan. If you have time, take a stop at Kleifarvatn, where you can mosey amidst hot springs and the bright grassy landscape. Golden Circle who?

Runner-Up:

Þingvellir / Geysir / Friðheimar / Fontana

South of Iceland

If you’re going to do the Golden Circle, make sure you add this little twist. On the drive to Þingvellir, turn onto the route to Laugarvatn and pull over at the lovely Fontana spa for a soak. Afterwards, head to Geysir and grab some greenhouse-fresh grub at Friðheimar near Flúðir (just remember to book your table in advance).

Runner-Up:

Krauma / Settlement Center

Deildartunguhver, 320 Reykholt

You can’t miss Krauma—the steam from the bubbling geothermal vent pours skywards into a column that’s visible for kilometres around. The complex contains five outdoor hot pots of various sizes and temperatures, a cold plunge pool, a scented sauna, a steam room, and a lounge area with an open fire. Relax, and afterwards stop by Borgarnes’s Settlement Center for some culture.

Previous Winners

2019: Snowmobile/ATV Tour

You can buy a copy of the full Best Of Reykjavík 2020 magazine—an essential guide to having fun in Reykjavík—here, posted worldwide.