Where to stay in Reykjavík?

Compact and charming, Reykjavík is the most northerly capital in the world. It is a destination that entertains visitors with a cultural blend of ancient and contemporary along with a buzzing nightlife scene. Right on the doorstep of Reykjavík is the stunning Icelandic countryside. Up until the beginning of the 19th century, Reykjavík was little more than a tiny town and an outpost of the Danish kingdom. By the early 20th century, it had grown into a fully-fledged capital city and a place most of the nation's population call home.

Reykjavík's streets are a colourful and eclectic mix of old and new. They're lined with painted houses and lead you upwards from the visually stunning contemporary architecture of Harpa to the graceful lines of the Hallgrímskirkja church. On the way, pop into quirky shops selling traditional Icelandic goods or rest for a while in one of the many cosy coffee shops selling hot chocolate and traditional pastries. While it may not have the imposing historical sights of other older European capitals, there is no denying the Nordic charm of Reykjavík.

Features of hotels and rooms in Reykjavík

Reykjavík is not a city of high-rise blocks and soaring hotels. Instead, you'll find grand palaces with luxurious rooms, cosy Art Deco boutique hotels and eye-catching contemporary buildings full of Scandi style. Indeed, chic Scandinavian decor and furnishings are a feature of many Reykjavík hotels, hostels and bed and breakfasts.

Chain hotels with their reliable standards of comfort and customer care are available in the city, but why not search out something a little different and get more of a taste of Icelandic life? One thing is for sure, whatever your budget and tastes - you'll find something to suit them in Reykjavík.

An amazing view in Reykjavík

With hotels overlooking the bay and others looking across the countryside to a distant view of volcanoes and glaciers, you can really get a sense of this unique country from your hotel room. For the best panoramic views of Reykjavík, however, head to some of the city's attractions. Hallgrímskirkja Church soars 74.5 metres into the air and there is hardly a spot in the city from where the church can't be seen. Its viewing platform offers breathtaking sea, country and city vistas.

Another place where you can enjoy a bird's eye view of the sea and scenery is Perlan. Sitting atop Öskjuhlíð hill, Perlan was once upon a time six water-storage towers. After being decommissioned, they were topped with a reflective dome and turned into the spectacular Glacier and Ice Exhibition. So realistic is the experience, that you're given cold-weather gear to wear during your visit. Telescopes on the observatory floor give you views of Iceland's glaciers on the horizon.

The Magical Sights of Reykjavík

While Reykjavík does not have as many tourist attractions as some European capital cities, the ones it does have are certainly worth a visit. The well-curated Reykjavík Art Museum is split across three sites and offers enough culture for a whole day. The modern Hafnarhús is home to contemporary art from around the globe while in a city park is Kjarvalsstaðir. This exhibition centre hosts ever-changing collections of contemporary Icelandic artists. The sculptures of Ásmundur Sveinsson can be enjoyed at Ásmundarsafn, located in the nearby Laugardalur or Hot Spring Valley.

In the city centre overlooking the water is the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre. With its dazzling bubbled glass exterior, this excellent example of modern Icelandic architecture is home to concerts and free exhibitions. It is certainly a photogenic sight. Much of Iceland's tourism focuses on outdoor destinations and the Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular and iconic of these. It lies just a short distance from Reykjavík and its healing geothermal waters and picturesque surroundings are reviving to both the body and the soul.

While Reykjavík can be visited all year round, most people arrive during the light and warm summer months. If you are planning a summer visit, it is definitely worth booking in advance. Whenever you choose to visit, however, BudgetAir will find you great deals on both your flights and hotel accommodation.