Seeing the Top Sights of Reykjavik

When you think of ultra cool places to visit around the world, Iceland immediately comes to mind - and not just because of the name! Although it is often considered one of the more expensive places to visit, if you're travelling with family or a group, choosing to stay in one of the excellent hostels for groups is a great way to travel on a budget.

Reykjavik, the country's capital, is at the very heart of Icelandic culture. Founded in 870 A.D. by a Norseman, its position on the southern coast still makes Reykjavik the northernmost capital in the world. There are some excellent hostels for groups in the city, so you'll be in the perfect position to explore. On a visit to the city be sure to see the Reykjavik Art Museum, take in a show at the Harpa, and go head out to the incredible Blue Lagoon.

Reykjavik Art Museum

This amazing museum was founded in 1973 and is housed over three locations. But even if you can’t make it to all three sites, you will be able to see many of the artworks on loan to public buildings throughout the city. (If you stay at one of the central hostels for groups you'll be in a perfect position to encounter quite a few of them.)

Begin your gallery experience by visiting the Kjarvalsstaðir building. Named in honour of the beloved Icelandic artist for which it was built, Johannes Sveinsson Kjarval, the Kjarvalsstaðir is one of the first buildings of its kind to be built for art exhibitions. Then make your way to Hafnarhús (Harbour House), which is situated in a former harbour warehouse. The architects have managed to incorporate quite a bit of its original look and feel and the Hafnarhús how holds six galleries and spaces utilised for a wide variety of events (check the calendar to see what’s on). Finally, head over to the Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum, which was opened in 1993. Dedicated to the beautiful works of Ásmundur Sveinsson, the museum showcases the work in the actual building and workshop the artist called home.

Harpa

The Harpa is a spectacular concert hall and conference centre in downtown Reykjavik. If you're staying in one of the hostels for groups located around the water, you won’t have to go far. The Harpa's iconic glass-cube design is striking and, inside, the space is calming and harmonious, with cafes, a shop and plenty of views over the water. The concert hall is lit up at night in a breath-taking display. Even in the heart of the recession in Iceland the city forged ahead to create the Harpa, and it is now a much-loved local attraction. Check out the schedule of what’s on while you are there, and you may get a chance to see Bjork, take in a lunchtime concert, or even go on a behind the scenes tour.

The Blue Lagoon

A visit to the world famous Blue Lagoon, near Reykjavik, is something that you must do while in Iceland. Only about fifty minutes from the city centre by bus, getting to the Blue Lagoon is easy. You can't help but be in awe of the bubbling geothermal spas and stunning blue waters of the lagoon, which emanate from the nearby geothermal plant. The Blue Lagoon itself is manmade and governed by strict hygiene rules – many believe the spa’s high mineral content is an aid to some skin conditions.

Ben Spencer works for Hostelling International. Offering more than 4000 hostels worldwide, their website dedicated to groups features 250 hostels specifically suitable for school trips, corporate team building trips and families. For the best hostels for groups, join our community and say hi to the world. HI is the only global network of Youth Hostel Associations and a non-profit membership organisation with over 100 years of experience.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.