Reykjavik, like most other cities around the world, is pretty quiet on a regular Sunday. Many visitors are spending the weekend in Reykjavik and we often get asked what they should do to make the most of that day. This is true for Americans especially, who are used to stores being open 24/7 and having endless variety of entertainment. If you are up early enough, the only people you might find in the streets of Reykjavik might be the most dedicated “clubbers” on their way home from a party. If you find yourself in this situation, here are just a few points on how a local would spend his Sunday.
1. Get a Good Breakfast!
What better way to start your Sunday than with a delicious breakfast! Try Bergsson Mathús, a great local restaurant at the heart of Reykjavik (Templarasund 3), serving fresh food. Besides the great food, you don’t have to sell your kidney to finance the meal (it’s reasonably priced)! They have a good brunch, too, but you. might also want to check out Prikid for brunch. If you’re looking to cure a hangover, go for the “hangover killer” and you’re good to go! They are located at Bankastraeti 12, right on the corner of the main shopping street of Reykjavik.
2. Relax in a Local Swimming Pool
Sundays are for resting, so getting some much-needed relaxation after traveling is in order. After your breakfast, stop by Sundhöllin (“The Swimming Palace”), the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. Anytime after 10 am, relax in a hot tub, enjoy one of the most interesting architectural buildings in Reykjavik, and mingle with the locals!
3. Explore!
If you haven’t done so already, go check out places like Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, feed the ducks by “The Pond”, and enjoy downtown Reykjavik. If the weather permits, this cannot fail!
4. Check Out Kolaportið Flea Market
This marketplace is extremely eccentric, interesting, and full of surprises. You never know what you will find there and it’s a great way to find “that authentic” peace you’ve been wanting to get as a souvenir. Locals set up their booths and offer a variety of products so you will always find something interesting. Click here for more information on Kolaportið.
5. Walk Over to the Reykjavik Art Museum
It will take you only about 30 seconds to walk over to the Reykjavik Art Museum (located at Tryggvagata 17). If you’re in the mood for modern Icelandic art, this is your place. Admission is about $9.5 per adult but I’d say is definitely worth it.
6. Enjoy an Icelandic Movie (at Bíó Paradís)
Just grab some dinner at the famous “Bæjarins Bestu” hot dog stand right next to the Reykjavik Art Museum and head over to Bíó Paradís (“Cinema Paradise”) movie theater. Bíó Paradís is an independent cinema that focuses on special genre-, independent-, and experimental films. They are always showing interesting films but try to choose an Icelandic film, with subtitles of course (When in Rome!).
That’s not a bad way to spend a quiet Sunday! 🙂
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