Monday, May 12 and Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the northernmost capital of the world, is a city where history and modernity intertwine like the auroras dancing across its skies.  Its name, meaning "Smokey Bay" was inspired by steam rising from geothermal springs, a fitting nickname for a place shaped by fire and ice.  Founded in 874 by Norsemen, Reykjavik remained a quiet farming settlement for centuries before blossoming into the vibrant cultural hub it is today.

The city's transformation began in the 18th century when Danish King Frederik V gifted the estate to an industrial corporation.  This marked the start of Reykjavik's industrial journey, with wool production as its lifeblood.  By 1786, it earned municipal status under Danish rule, laying the foundation for its future as Iceland's capital.  Reykjavik became the heart of Icelandic nationalism in the 19th century and gained prominence during Iceland's independence movement.

Reykjavik evolved rapidly during the 20th century.  From being a modest fishing village to hosting global events like the 1972 World Chess Championship and the 1986 summit between Reagan and Gorbachev, it cemented itself on the world stage.  The post-war years saw urban expansion fueled by migration from rural areas and technological advancements.  Today, Reykjavik thrives as a center of culture, innovation and tourism.

Modern Reykjavik is a kaleidoscope of attractions that celebrate its rich heritage and contemporary spirit.  Iconic landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja Church tower over colorful streets, offering panoramic views of Mount Esja and beyond.  A modern concert hall dazzles with its glass facade inspired by Iceland's basalt landscapes, hosting symphonies and cultural events year-round.  The Sun Voyager sculpture graces the waterfront as a poetic ode to exploration and hope.

Reykjavik also embraces its Viking roots through museums, while its geothermal pools and architectural marvels reflect its innovative spirit.  

We have had the opportunity to soak in the breathtaking Blue Lagoon on previous trips so we chose other activities this time, but it is an incredible  place to take a dip in the natural pool and smear the mud (for a price) all over your face and body as you sip on your glass of champagne and stroll around in the warm water.  At other times of year we have had the great fortune to witness the extraordinary natural phenomena of the northern lights. There are many ways to enjoy yourself in this enchanting city, with its blend of natural beauty and human creativity.

Reykjavik stands as a testament to resilience--a city born from volcanic ash yet alive with artistry and ambition.  It invites everyone who visits to wander through its city and countryside and explore its smokey past and radiant present. We are thrilled to be visiting again. Now, here's a few of the activities in which we engaged during this visit:

Our Tour, Day 1 - Reykjavik Highlights

Today's tour was labeled "Reykjavik Highlights," however, it was more like "Reykjavik Museums!"  It wasn't quite the tour we expected butt it was still interesting.  

Our first stop was to spend some time at the Arbaer Open Air Museum.  The museum is nestled on the outskirts of the city and is a living tapestry of Iceland's past--where turf-roofed farmhouses, quaint timber cottages, and a cluster of historic buildings gather like old friends around a village green.  Strolling its cobbled paths, we were swept into a world of crackling hearths and horse-drawn days, where the scent of grass mingles with the stories of Reykjavik's earliest settlers.   Each carefully preserved house was alive with character, their weathered walls whispering tales of fishermen, farmers, and city folk whose lives shaped the soul of Iceland.  Here, history wasn't just displayed - it breathed and invited us to step through time.

The museum showcased over 20 restored buildings that whispered tales of everyday life from the 19th to mid-20th century.  The traditional turf houses, with their earthy textures of wood, stone, and moss, stand as a monument to Iceland's resourceful spirit while quaint wooden homes revealed the evolution of Icelandic architecture. Many of these structures were relocated from different parts of Reykjavik and restored to reflect different various periods. The museum was established in 1957 on the site of the historic Arbaer farm as a response to concerns that Reykjavik's traditional way of life was disappearing due to rapid modernization.  The farm itself has roots dating back to the 10th century and once served as a rest stop for travelers heading to and from Reykjavik. The museum comes alive with costumed guides, live animals, and demonstrations of traditional crafts and chores, providing a vivid window into the city's past.

Although it was quite cold as we walked along the gravel and cobbled paths, and up and down hills the open air museum was quite interesting and gave us a good idea of what life in Reykjavik was like as it developed.  Among the ancient buildings there were a number of students and professors who had set up archeological exploration sites in an effort to discover artifacts and additional history about the local area and the inhabitants. 

Our next stop was at the Perlan Museum.  This museum is a dazzling gem perched atop a hill, crowned by a shimmering glass dome that gleams like a pearl in Iceland's rugged skyline.  

This immersive natural history museum took us on a journey through Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.  The museum's interactive exhibits brought to life volcanic eruptions, geothermal wonders, and the island's unique geology.  Although the museum was fairly interesting and there were many exhibits/experiences available, we lacked any direction or guidance as to what was available in the museum, so we missed many of the experiences.  For example, there is an indoor geyser which erupts, shooting water 82 feet, a tribute to Iceland's fiery spirit.  There was also a 200 feet ice cave, sculpted from over 350 tons of snow and ice we didn't see.  

The museum offered a planetarium show that has a high-tech dance of the Northern Lights.  Unfortunately we were unaware of it.  So, although the Perlan is advertised as a vibrant celebration of Iceland's wild, elemental beauty, with our lack of information we were limited to the typical museum exhibits. We did enjoy a lovely 360-degree view of the city from the open, rooftop viewing platform. The weather was clear enough for us to see the surrounding communities and countryside which was quite interesting and gave us an idea of how the city is laid out.

After leaving he Perlan Museum, we had a brief panoramic drive around what was described as the old downtown.  However, we were a bit disappointed since most of what we saw were modern office buildings. We did a drive by the majestic Hallgrimskirkja, a towering Lutheran church with a striking minimalist design.  Unfortunately, the church was not scheduled as part of this tour so we were unable to stop, which was very disappointing.  Luckily, Bob and I we were here a couple of years ago so we have seen it but we felt bad for the passengers who did not have the opportunity to go inside.  Later, Bob had a chance to catch a shuttle bus and re-visit the downtown walk street that leads up to the Hallgrimskirkja Church.  

Our last stop of the day was at the Iceland National Museum.  This museum is a vibrant treasure trove that gives life to the island's rich tapestry of history and culture. Located in the heart of the capital, this three-story museum took us on an interesting journey through time, from the rugged Age of Settlement in the 9th century to modern times.  The permanent exhibition, "Making of a Nation," showcases around 2000 artifacts, including the 12th-century Valpjofsstaour door, adorned with intricate carvings of knights and dragons.

Walking through the museum is like stepping into a living saga, where ancient wooden cabins, Viking relics, and delicate jewelry whisper stories of endurance and artistry.  The museum's blend of historical artifacts and interactive technology creates a dynamic experience.  Although there was a lot to learn from the exhibits, once again we lacked any sort of guide to help us get the most out of our visit.  Beyond the history, the museum's cozy cafe offered a taste of Icelandic culture through cuisine, in which we gladly indulged by sipping on coffee and feasting on a traditional Icelandic pastry!  The museum is advertised as not just a place to observe the past but a vibrant celebration of Iceland's identity, resilience and creativity, encapsulating the spirit of the nation.

Once we left the museum we drove back to the ship.  The driver did stop in town for anyone who wanted to get off and walk through town.  There was a city shuttle bus which would deliver passengers back to the pier.  Of course, Bob was one of the people who took advantage of the opportunity to spend more time in town, however, I remained on the bus and returned to the ship.   

Here's Bob thoughts about his walk through downtown and his visit to the Hallgrimskirkja Church:

The vibrant shopping and cultural streets of Laugavegur and Skolvoroustigur are just a stone’s throw from Hallgrímskirkja. Laugavegur is Reykjavik’s main shopping artery, while Skólavörðustígur is famous for its rainbow-painted pavement and eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and cafés. Exploring these streets gives you a taste of the city’s creative energy and local life.

Rising like a frozen symphony, the Hallgrímskirkja Church steeple pierces Reykjavik’s ever-changing sky, its basalt-inspired columns echoing Iceland’s volcanic soul.  This concrete giant, both stark and uplifting, beckons visitors skyward for panoramic vistas. At its feet, the Rainbow Street-Skólavörðustígur-unfurls a technicolor carpet, guiding wanderers past candy-hued houses, quirky boutiques, art shops and sunlit cafes.  Together, the church’s solemn grandeur captures Reykjavik’s spirit: wild, welcoming, and vibrantly alive.

 Near the ships shuttle is the Harpa Concert Hall which is a dazzling glass and modern facade on the city’s waterfront. The building is worth a visit for its innovative design and the way it reflects Iceland’s natural beauty. Harpa is a cultural hub and a symbol of Reykjavik’s contemporary spirit.

Well, that's it for our first day.  Tomorrow should be a fun day since we are scheduled to go on an excursion that we really enjoyed last time we were here.

Our Tour, Day 2 - 

Today, our tour may have been short but it was great fun.  We went to the attraction "Fly Over Iceland," which was a dazzling adventure that let us soar above Iceland's wild beauty without leaving Reykjavik.  We were suspended with our feet dangling in front of a 65-foot spherical screen and our "flight" gliding over fiery volcanoes, shimmering glaciers, roaring waterfalls, and rugged fjords.  The ride's advanced technology perfectly synced motion with breathtaking 4D visuals.  The sensation of flight was heightened by special effects of gusts of wind, mist spraying our faces, and even the scents of Icelandic nature, making us feel truly airborne.  

Before takeoff, we entered an ancient Viking longhouse where a storyteller and the enchanting troll Su Vitra weaved Iceland's myths and history into a spellbinding prelude.  The magical journey captured the raw power of fire and ice, revealing Iceland's dramatic landscapes and rich folklore in vivid detail.  Fly Over Iceland offered us an unforgettable flight that ignited our imagination and left us breathless with wonder. It was more than a ride; it was a poetic flight through a land of fire and ice and a sensory celebration of Iceland's dramatic beauty that left us awe-inspired and gave us a deep appreciation and connection to this extraordinary island.  We have been on this attraction previously and I would do it every time we visit this city!  It is an amazing experience!!! 

After two delightful days of touring this fascinating island, there is one thing that is abundantly clear about the people who have grown up in Iceland.  Everyone we met believes in trolls and supernatural beings on earth.  In the wild heart of Iceland, belief in trolls and supernatural beings pulses through the land like geothermal heat.  Towering trolls, lumbering through moonlit mountains, are said to turn to stone at the kiss of sunlight--their petrified forms scattered across the landscape as craggy reminders of ancient magic.  The elusive Huldufolk, or hidden people, dwell in mossy hills and lava fields their invisible presence so respected that roads are rerouted to avoid their homes.  There is a special myth for the Christmas season.  The story is about the troll Gryla, who can detect children who are misbehaving.  Legend goes that she leaves her cave and goes to town to look for naughty children.  When she finds one she kidnaps him/her, and carries them home in her giant sack.  She cooks them in her enormous pot and then eats them as her favorite snack! (I know, what a gory story for Christmas). These legends, woven into every waterfall and shadow color Icelandic life with a sense of wonder, caution, and reverence for the unseen world.

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, shines like a gem in the northernmost corner of the world.  It is known as the "City of Sagas," and it weaves tales of Viking history as we strolled along its colorful streets.  This kaleidoscope of modern architecture, geothermal wonders, and rich cultural heritage has made Reykjavik a magical place to visit and we thoroughly enjoyed our time here.

After a very exciting and thoroughly enjoyable two days in this fabulous city, we are on our way to Greenland, for our first visit there. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to visit this remote land.  It was one of the main reasons we decided to do the world cruise again this year.