Reykjavik’s museums
Hallgrimskirkja
Hallgrimskirkja is Reykjavik’s most iconic church – though not its cathedral as you might perhaps have thought. This imposing place of worship is styled to reflect the basalt columns that characterise Icelandic geology. Take a look at the Leif Eriksson monument – he was the first person to venture across the Atlantic to the New World. Step inside the church to admire its simple and elegant interior before riding the elevator to the top of the 73 metre high tower to take in the view.
Höfði House
Built more than a century ago, Höfði House would be an important historic site as the home of Icelandic poet Einar Benediktsson. Its original resident was the French consul; later it became the British Embassy for a time. It has additional significance, however, as the place chosen for the historic meeting in 1986 between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev as the US and Russian leaders sought to discuss how to end the Cold War.
The Sun Voyager sculpture
To many tourists, Reykjavik’s Norse connections are emphasised with one of its most famous landmarks, perched on the waterfront about fifteen minutes’ walk north of the hotel. The Sun Voyager – known as Sólfarið to Icelanders – is a gleaming steel ship that resembles a Viking longship. In fact, it’s a dream boat. Sculptor is Jón Gunnar Árnason is quoted as saying that it represents, "the promise of undiscovered territory, a dream of hope, progress and freedom."
Sundhöll Reykjavík
Explore Midtown Reykjavik
5 min bus ride to Hallgrímskirkja
30 minute walk to the centre
