Perlan Museum
Reykjavik, Iceland[2.2 miles]
A high-tech museum that recreates Iceland’s geological wonders: volcanoes, ice caves, glaciers, sea cliffs and even the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).
Best for ages: 4+ | £25 | 1 night
Best places to stay:
This 58-room art deco gem is one of Reykjavik’s most sophisticated and glamorous hotels.
Features include parquet floors, twinkling chandeliers and the best mod cons around – Philippe Starck fittings, Bang and Olufsen flatscreen TVs and Hastens beds in large rooms decorated in chocolate and maroon.
The hotel’s restaurant serves up wonderful local produce with a twist, with popping candy and dry ice pepping up exquisite desserts.
It’s elegant and upmarket, and unsurprisingly popular with the older end of the market. Service is perfect and a concierge can book everything you need in advance or during your stay.
It’s also in a great location beside Reykjavik’s key green space.
Hotel Borg faces Austurvollur square, a patch of green in front of the parliament and cathedral with cafés and bars around it. It’s a lovely spot in the summer and popular with locals. (Try for a room overlooking the square have the best views; those at the back overlook a busy road).
Behind the square is the town hall and a large pond and park, where children play. The harbour and city’s art galleries are very close by. The old harbour is only a short walk away, so you’re well placed for early-morning trips to see whales and dolphins in season.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Reykjavik, Iceland[2.2 miles]
A high-tech museum that recreates Iceland’s geological wonders: volcanoes, ice caves, glaciers, sea cliffs and even the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).
Best for ages: 4+ | £25 | 1 night
Iceland[3 miles]
Once-in-a-lifetime trips to see migrating humpback and minke whales up close, as they pass by on their annual north–south migration. Tours from Husavik, Akureyri and Reykjavik can be arranged.
Best for ages: 4+ | £70 | 3-4 hours
Hafnarfjordur, Iceland[20.2 miles]
A once-in-a-lifetime experience: the chance to travel down inside a dormant volcano, the only place in the world where it’s possible to do so.
Best for ages: 8+ | £260 | 4-5 hours
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Reykjavik, Iceland[0.3 miles]
An art museum on the Reykjavik waterfront showcases the work of pop artist Erro alongside new installations by local and international artists. One of three museums that officially make up the Reykjavik Art Museum. Open daily.
Best for ages: 13+ | £12 | 1 night
Reykjavik, Iceland[0.7 miles]
A dynamic National Museum focusing on the island’s turbulent and colourful past but also examining life in modern-day Iceland. There are treasures dating back to the Vikings and Saga Age, alongside modern displays on fashion and photography. Suðurgata, 101
Best for ages: 13+ | £15
Reykjavik, Iceland[0.8 miles]
Iceland’s tallest church, built from 1945 to 1986, has become a symbol of Iceland’s identity and a Reykjavik landmark. It’s striking design is inspired by Iceland’s geothermal geology – it’s supposed to resemble basalt lava and trap rocks. It’s also a decent viewpoint. Take an elevator ride to the top for sweeping views over the city.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Reykjavik, Iceland[1.6 miles]
An art museum showcasing modern paintings and sculptures by well-known Icelandic artists, notably Johannes Kjarval, housed in a striking Nordic Modernist building. One of three museums that officially make up the Reykjavik Art Museum. Open daily.
Best for ages: 13+ | £12 | 1 night
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Iceland
From volcanoes and glaciers to black beaches, geothermal pools and the Northern Lights, Iceland is one of the world’s wildest, weirdest destinations. A paradise for adventurous travellers.