What to do in Capital Region

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Capital Region travel guide

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Top places to visit

1. Reykjavik Harbour

Reykjavík’s Old Harbour is the perfect place to start your visit to Iceland. Wander along the quay through quaint lanes and past renovated fishermen’s sheds that now house galleries, cafés and tour operators.

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2. Laugavegur

Find an exciting collection of cafés, restaurants, bars and specialty stores on Laugavegur, an arterial street in Reykjavík’s downtown area. Stroll down the partly pedestrianized strip and spend an afternoon checking out Scandinavian designer stores. Stop at a café or bakery and try delicious Icelandic treats, while watching fashion-conscious shoppers go by. In the evening, relax with a drink at one of the Laugavegur bars and clubs.

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3. Harpa

Experience the masterful design and outstanding facilities of one of Reykjavík’s modern landmarks at the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center. Opened in 2011, this contemporary structure hosts recitals, performances, exhibitions and conferences. See touring musicians or a fascinating exhibit by local artists. Attend an all-access guided tour or simply wander along the harbor taking in each aspect of the exceptionally designed building.

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4. Hallgrimskirkja

Designed in 1939 by the late architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, Hallgrimskirkja is a 1,000-seat church that took more than 40 years to complete. Samúelsson’s inspiration came from the shapes of the Icelandic countryside. He created the structure to appear like cooling lava from a volcanic eruption. Visit for Sunday mass or simply for the best views of Reykjavík.

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aurora borealis above hallgrimskirkja church in central of reykjavik city in Iceland, Shutterstock ID 1146085949, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: , Client/Licensee: Faa Praharnpap, Ot

5. Reykjavik City Hall

Admire the bold architectural lines merging with Lake Tjörnin’s glassy reflection when you approach Reykjavík City Hall (Ráðhús Reykjavíkur), a distinctive modern civic center. Stroll around picturesque Lake Tjörnin and marvel at the structure’s intriguing design or visit the hall’s café and exhibition space to enjoy stunning views of the lake and its birdlife.

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6. Perlan

In the early 1990s, the architect Ingimundur Sveinsson created an exciting tourist attraction by resting a glass and metal dome on top of the city’s six hot water tanks. The structure includes a huge exhibition space, a revolving restaurant and a 360-degree viewing platform.

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7. National Museum of Iceland

The National Museum of Iceland traces the history of Iceland from the early Viking settlements to the present day through over 2,000 artifacts, photographs and multimedia displays. A major overhaul of the building in 2004 has created an interactive, state-of-the-art space, which offers plenty of visitor participation. Pick up a telephone and chat with a medieval chieftain or try on some ancient armor and jewelry. The museum is a wonderful hands-on learning experience for all ages.

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What to do in Capital Region

Popular places to visit

Reykjavik Harbour

Once a maritime and fishing precinct, the Old Harbour now buzzes with restaurants, cafés and tour boat operators.

Laugavegur

Brightly colored shopfronts spill into the street and add atmosphere to the sidewalk dining areas and designer stores of Reykjavík’s main downtown shopping strip.

Harpa

The sculptural glass façade of Reykjavík’s premier concert hall and conference center shines over the harbor, reflecting the water and the city’s energy.

Sky Lagoon

You can take time to visit Sky Lagoon during your travels to Kópavogur. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

university building at Reykjavik harbor, Iceland

University of Iceland

Walk around the campus at University of Iceland as part of your travels around Reykjavik. Discover the lively bars and acclaimed theatre scene in this culturally rich area.

Hallgrimskirkja

With its magnificent tower, this church is one of Reykjavík’s most famous landmarks, dominating the skyline and serving as a useful compass point.

Reykjavik City Hall

The dynamic architectural design and picturesque location of this modern civic building near the Tjörnin lakeside has made it a landmark in downtown Reykjavík.

Perlan

This unusual glass-domed structure combines the practical aspects of the city’s water heating system with spectacular architectural vision.

National Museum of Iceland

From Viking feasts and battles to the independence movement of the 20th century, Iceland’s premier museum preserves every detail of the nation’s history.

Explore areas of Capital Region

Downtown Reykjavik

5/5(286 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Downtown Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja and National Theatre of Iceland are top sights worth seeing.

Beautiful night dusk view of Reykjavik, Iceland, aerial view with Hallgrimskirkja lutheran church, with scenery beyond the city, Esja mountain and Faxafloi bay

Laugardalur

4/5(30 area reviews)

Laugardalur is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool or Laugavegur.

Reykjavik's oldest hydro power plant by Ellidaa river

Háaleiti

4/5(74 area reviews)

When in Háaleiti, you can plan a visit to Kringlan Shopping Mall and Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Vesturbær

4.5/5(100 area reviews)

The abundant dining options and waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Vesturbær. A stop by Reykjavik Harbour or Landakotskirkja might round out your trip.

Tún

If you're spending some time in Tún, Laugavegur and Hofdi House are top sights worth seeing.

Holt

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Holt and surrounding area, you can visit Reykjavik Harbour and Laugavegur.

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