Finding the Fire and Ice: 24 Hours in Reykjavik

Iceland’s rugged beauty has drawn nature-loving visitors for years, but its compact capital has quirk and charm aplenty—and hot springs, too.

A scenic view of Reykjavik, Iceland. Harald Nachtmann/Getty Images

Boiling with volcanic energy just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland brings the drama like few countries do. Equal parts fire and ice, this country’s rugged beauty has only begun to beckon visitors over the past couple of decades. You might be waiting out a long connection on Icelandair, or this could be your first day of a larger trip to the soaring geysers, crashing waterfalls, and pitch-black lava tubes across the island nation.

Either way, the country’s quirky and cool capital has a lot to offer. Its compact and easily walkable layout mean you can explore a lot in a day. Fair warning: You’re definitely going to need a swimsuit and a towel. Here’s our guide to enjoying 24 hours in Reykjavik.

Arrival

It’s often misunderstood: International flights do not land in Reykjavik. The country’s major entry point was built on the footprint of a U.S. World War II military base, on a windblown point about 45 minutes outside of the capital. Although somewhat inconvenient, it must be said: Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is a rather lovely place to arrive—small and bright, warm and friendly.