The incredible capital city that’s further north than any other in the world
For a capital city its population is low at 120,000 - about the same as Exeter in Devon - and only 200,000 once you add in the greater metropolitan area.
This is one city that gives a whole new meaning to "heading up north."
Reykjavík, the capital of and largest city in Iceland, is on a latitude of 64°08' N, which makes it the world's northernmost capital of a sovereign state.
The multi-cultural city is, however, on the southwestern corner of Iceland, on the southern shore of the Faxaflói Bay.
For a capital city its population is low at 120,000 - about the same as Exeter in Devon - and only 200,000 once you add in the greater metropolitan area.
Yet, it is the cultural, economic and governmental centre of Iceland.
The total population of Iceland was recorded as 382,000 in 2022, just 13,000 more than the 369,000 who were living in Coventry at the same time.
Being so far north, Iceland was relatively unaffected by immigration until the late 1990s. Before this around two percent of the population were migrants.
This figure grew slowly, then ballooned from 2005, hitting 7.6 percent in 2009 - when Iceland also saw around 5,000 people leaving due to an economic downturn.
The economy has since improved, but migration steadily grew, meaning that by 2022 23.7 percent of Iceland's population (about 86,000 people) were of foreign heritage, with the biggest quota stemming from Poland.
Today, Reykjavik is a gateway for extraordinary natural phenomena, and it is worth staying a few days to enjoy the Icelandic culture, such as experiencing Nordic food and its vibrant music scene.
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Things to do in Reykjavík
In Reykjavík try the Nordic-inspired food and dishes such as fermented shark and tasty skyr yogurt. Iceland's food is based on meat, dairy, and fish and historically was fermented, smoked, salted and cured as it needed to be stored for long periods. It is also famed for steaks and hot dogs.
Try the three-hour Reykjavik Food Walk for the most traditional dishes.
Investigate the city's thriving music scene in clubs and bars where indie and electronica prevail.
Relax in one of the city's many hot thermal springs such as the Blue Lagoon and consider a stop off at the Fagradalsfjall volcano, or try the Sundhöllin public baths.
Walk to the shining Sun Voyager sculpture and climb a hill to the Hallgrimskirkja expressionist church.
The best shopping is in the pedestrian street of Laugavegur or the Kolaportið flea market near the harbour at weekends.
The National Museum of Iceland, has an insight into Viking culture and Aurora Reykjavík, is all about the Northern Lights.
Take a trip to see the Northern Lights and head out to the Golden Circle to see the Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall and Thingvellir National Park.
