Tours

Exploring Reykjavik is a little like looking into a kaleidoscope. This Nordic city is fascinating with its colors, sights and stark contrasts. A vibrant and flourishing cultural centre set against a stunning backdrop makes Reykjavik a popular tourist destination. Until the 18th century this was a tiny unknown city; now Greater Reykjavik consists of the Old Town, harbor and other municipalities, all of which are worth a visit with their brightly painted houses, clean roads and cultural landmarks. There are various trips and tours available, best suited to your preferences, regardless of whether you are here to relax or up for some gut wrenching action. Before making a head start, don't forget to visit the Reykjavik Tourist Centre and buy a Reykjavik Tourist Card that allows you free access to a number of museums, galleries and unlimited traveling on Strætó buses.

Rediscovering Nature There are certain aspects of Reykjavik that shouldn't be missed. The splendor of the Northern Lights and the jewel toned waters of the Lagoon are tourist must-sees. Although you need to be there at the right place and time to catch the Northern Lights display, you can dip into the soothing waters of the lagoon at the Nauthólsvík Thermal Beach anytime!

Classic Tours Classic tours like the Greater Reykjavik Tour make sure you get to see all the important landmarks. The “Hop On – Hop Off” City Sightseeing is one of the most popular tours organized by Reykjavik Excursions. As the name suggests, passengers can hop on and off a double-decker bus that has 10 stops and circles around Reykjavik. You also find various biking tracks and tours, a great alternative to the walking excursions. Explore the majestic Glymurfoss waterfall and the hot springs with the Golden Circle Tour. A complete family outing would involve a trip to Viðey Island, which gives you a taste of history and the outdoors.

Something for the Kids Travelling with children just got a little easier! Parents can sit and enjoy a strong cup of java while the kids are regaled by the animals and farmyard procedures at Laugabakkar, a farm cafe. Knowledge can be made fun at the Húsdýragarðurinn, a farm animal zoo.

Action and Adventure Trips If you are the kind of person who can't waste a minute relaxing, or love pushing your body to the maximum, Reykjavik has loads for you. To get a shot of adrenalin contact the Activity Group, who organize high energy raft rides, horse rides and dog sledding. Or you can gallop away to Skálafell Mountain (40km outside Reykjavik) with Eldhestar. Put on your sturdy hiking gear and trek along the dizzying heights with the Icelandic Mountain Guides. The great Mount Esja is an ideal hiking ground with paths for people of all fitness levels.

Animal Excursions Once you are done exploring the area by road, have climbed a mountain or two, ridden with horses and dogs, and swum in lakes and at beaches you'd think you've done it all, right? Wrong! Here's an opportunity to see Reykjavik in a whole new light, and from a completely different angle – in the sky! Soar over the city and enjoy a bird's eye view with aero-tours organized by Eagle Air! Or dig beneath the surface and explore Iceland's undiscovered lava tubes and caves. If you want to get in touch with your animal side, take a hiatus and meet the whales in excursions organized by Destination Iceland, or sail along with dolphins in the Húni II.

Rest and Relaxation Relax after a long day of sightseeing and excursions by soaking in geothermal pools and Jacuzzis at Arbaejarlaug or the Sundhöll Hafnarfjarðar. Reykjavik has 16 thermal pools. This pure thermal water with its minerals is an excellent rejuvenator, plus a nice long soak in the Jacuzzi never hurt anybody! So go ahead and take advantage of these natural soothing aids.

Reykjavik is chock-o-block with cultural landmarks and natural sights. It is best to take a tour that explores the side of the city that you most enjoy. A perfect end to such a day would be enjoying a meal and a few drinks at one of the innumerable restaurants and bars – so go ahead and get a taste of Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife.

Personalized VIP bar and club tours courtesy of Nightlife Friend: +35 4 822 6600 http://www.nightlifefriend.com info@nightlifefriend.com