Northern Europe
Fire, ice, and a tiny capital at the edge of the Arctic.
Iceland is a young, raw land of volcanoes, glaciers, geysers and waterfalls, floating alone in the North Atlantic just below the Arctic Circle — a nature-lover's dream where the earth still visibly makes itself. Reykjavík, the world's northernmost capital, is the base for all of it: a small, colourful, creative city of hot-spring pools, cosy bars and a famous music scene, with otherworldly landscapes and the northern lights (in winter) a short drive away. Expensive, but unforgettable.
What things cost: Iceland is very expensive — food, drink and tours all sting, the price of importing nearly everything to a remote island. Tap water is pure glacier and free, the geothermal pools are cheap, and much of the scenery costs nothing. Buy alcohol at the airport duty-free, and know that when a zone below says 'low', it's still not cheap.
Sometimes the event picks the city for you.
One of the world's coolest small music festivals — new Icelandic and international acts playing bars, record shops, churches and living rooms across the tiny city for a few dark November days. Intimate, buzzing and a brilliant excuse to visit off-season; book beds and passes well ahead.
Reykjavík · Venues citywide
Reykjavík throws one of the world's wildest New Year's Eves — community bonfires around the city, then a jaw-dropping free-for-all of fireworks as, at midnight, seemingly every resident sets off their own, turning the sky into chaos over the bay. Extraordinary; dress warm and get outside.
Reykjavík · Bonfires & citywide
Iceland's independence day, celebrated with parades, brass bands, street performers and a 'Woman of the Mountain' in national dress, the little capital decked in blue-white-and-red flags. A joyful, family day out in the long June light; the biggest celebration of the year.
Reykjavík · Downtown Reykjavík
The whole city throws open its doors for one long summer night — free concerts, art, performances and famously home-baked waffles handed out on doorsteps, ending with a big fireworks display over the bay. Reykjavík's warmest, most communal night; join the crowds and wander.
Reykjavík · Citywide
