GENERAL

Surrounded by dramatic volcanic terrain and set against a backdrop of Mount Esja, Iceland's capital Reykjavik is a beautiful city. It enjoy as a cosmopolitan vibe, a rugged outdoorsy lifestyle and a fashionable nightlife scene. The city is the ideal place to base yourself if you plan on visiting the countless natural wonders of Iceland.

Hot Pots, the Blue Lagoon and the Great Outdoors...

Geothermal swimming pools - Heita Potturinn or Hot Pots, are a major part of everyday life for an Icelandic citizen, the largest is Laugardalslaug. Alternatively, head to the famous Blue Lagoon, just outside the city, where the spectacular lava-formed landscapes house mineral rich hot pools. Iceland's most celebrated waterfall - the 'Golden Circle' of Gulfoss is also close to the city.

Reykjavik also serves as the perfect base from which to explore Iceland's considerable natural gifts. Whether that's the volcanoes, hot springs and waterfalls or dolphin, whale and puffing watching tours.

Cultural Reykjavik...

There are many outstanding museums to explore on a holiday to Reykjavik, including the Reykjavik Art Museum, the National Gallery of Iceland and the Saga Museum. The Saga is housed in the world-famous glass-structure, the Pearl.

A party city - making up for lost time...

Reykjavik's nightlife has a reputation for being rather wild. This is hardly surprising considering that there was prohibition on beer until 1989 - the locals are now really making up for it! Due to the compact nature of the city, most nightspots are within easy reach of each other - concentrated around the bustling central streets of Laugavegur. Nightlife highlights on a Reykjavik holiday include the buzzing dance club NASA and the sleek B5 bar.

Eating out...

You'll find a wealth of excellent dining options scattered throughout the city on a Reykjavik holiday. Seafood is an obvious speciality of Icelandic cuisine and the hottest restaurant on the scene at the moment is the Fish Market, where you can enjoy delicacies such as smoked puffin!

Shopping...

The city's most fashionable shops are also centred around Laugavegur, where you'll find many fashionable boutiques and chic designer stores. There is a traditional flea market at Kolaportið on the weekends.

If you like the sound of Reykjavik...

...take a look at holidays to Helsinki here Oslo holidays here and city breaks in Sweden here