· IS

Reykjanesbær

Reykjanesbær, Iceland

Reykjanesbær, located in Iceland, is a charming and vibrant town that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. Situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, this coastal town is k…

#coastal town#geothermal activity#volcanic landscape#fishing industry#tourist destination
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Reykjanesbær.

Top Hotels in Reykjanesbær

Top Flights to Reykjanesbær

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Reykjanesbær.

Tours

Reykjanes Peninsula Tour

Discover the stunning landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula, with its geothermal areas, dramatic cliffs, and volcanic craters.

Viking World Museum

Explore the rich history of Viking heritage and artifacts.

Reykjanes Lighthouse and Cliffs

Visit Iceland's oldest lighthouse and enjoy the stunning view from the cliffs.

Bridge Between Continents

Walk between two continents on the bridge connecting the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Reykjanes Art Museum

Discover contemporary Icelandic art at Reykjanes Art Museum.

Shopping

Keflavik Shopping Street

Enjoy a leisurely walk through Keflavik’s main shopping street and find local crafts and goods.

Thrainsson's Books and Coffee

A cozy spot to enjoy a book along with a cup of coffee.

Outdoor

Blue Lagoon Visit

Relax and unwind in the famous Blue Lagoon's mineral-rich waters.

Garðskagi Lighthouse Walk

A scenic walk around the Garðskagi lighthouse, ideal for bird watching and sea views.

Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike

Experience the unique opportunity to see a recently active volcanic site.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Reykjanesbær.

Currency
kr | ISK | Icelandic króna
Population
20.0 thousand

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Reykjanesbær.

What people love

Reykjanesbær, located in southwest Iceland, offers a unique and diverse range of attractions for travelers to enjoy. Here are some pros of traveling to Reykjanesbær:

  1. Blue Lagoon: Reykjanesbær is close to the world-famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, where visitors can relax in the mineral-rich waters surrounded by stunning lava fields. This is a must-visit attraction for many travelers to Iceland.

  2. Bridge Between Continents: Reykjanesbær is home to the Bridge Between Continents, where you can walk between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. This is a unique geological feature and a great photo opportunity.

  3. Geothermal Areas: Reykjanesbær is known for its geothermal areas, with bubbling mud pots, hot springs, and steam vents. Visitors can explore these otherworldly landscapes and learn about geothermal energy production in Iceland.

  4. Lighthouse and Coastal Views: Reykjanesbær has a picturesque coastline with rugged cliffs, lava formations, and a historic lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the coast and take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

  5. Cultural Attractions: Reykjanesbær has a rich cultural heritage, with museums, art galleries, and historical sites to explore. Visitors can learn about Icelandic history, folklore, and traditions while visiting the town.

Overall, Reykjanesbær offers a combination of natural beauty, geothermal wonders, cultural attractions, and unique experiences that make it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the best of Iceland.

What to know

Traveling to Reykjanesbær, located in Iceland, may have certain cons that travelers should consider. Some potential drawbacks include:

  1. Weather conditions: Reykjanesbær experiences unpredictable weather patterns, including strong winds, fog, and rain. This can affect outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities.

  2. Limited amenities: Reykjanesbær is a relatively small town with limited amenities compared to larger cities. Travelers may find fewer options for dining, shopping, and entertainment.

  3. Remote location: Reykjanesbær is located in a remote area of Iceland, which may make it more challenging to access compared to other popular tourist destinations. Travelers should plan for longer travel times and consider transportation options.

  4. Limited public transportation: Public transportation options in Reykjanesbær may be limited, making it necessary for travelers to rely on rental cars or private transportation to get around.

  5. High cost of living: Iceland, in general, has a high cost of living, including accommodation, dining, and activities. Travelers should budget accordingly to account for potentially higher expenses in Reykjanesbær.

It's important to note that these cons should be balanced with the numerous attractions and natural beauty that Reykjanesbær and the surrounding area have to offer.

Reykjanesbær, located in the southwestern part of Iceland, is a relatively young municipality that was formally established in 1994 through the merger of several towns, including Keflavík, Njarðvík, and Hafnir. It is a vibrant community that plays a significant role in Iceland's modern development due to its proximity to the country's main international gateway, Keflavík International Airport.

Historical Development

  1. Early Settlements:

    • The Reykjanes Peninsula, where Reykjanesbær is located, has been inhabited since the Viking Age. The area was attractive due to its fishing opportunities and relatively mild climate compared to the rest of Iceland.

  2. 20th Century Developments:

    • Keflavík: A key part of Reykjanesbær, Keflavík developed primarily as a fishing village. Over time, it became a center for fish processing and trade.
    • The establishment of Keflavík Airport during World War II marked a significant turning point. Built by the United States military, it served as a strategic airbase during the war and later during the Cold War. The presence of the U.S. military significantly influenced the local economy and culture.

  3. Municipal Merger (1994):

    • The merger of Keflavík, Njarðvík, and Hafnir created the new municipality of Reykjanesbær. This consolidation was part of a broader trend in Iceland to streamline local governance and improve service delivery.

Significant Events and Historical Figures

  • Icelandic Independence (1944): The military presence and infrastructure developments in Keflavík played a role during the period leading up to Iceland's full independence from Denmark.
  • NATO and U.S. Military Base: The U.S. military base at Keflavík was a crucial NATO station during the Cold War. The base was handed over to Iceland in 2006, which led to economic challenges but also new opportunities for development and tourism.

Important Landmarks

  1. Keflavík International Airport:

    • The largest airport in Iceland and a major hub for international travel, crucial for the country's tourism industry.

  2. Viking World Museum:

    • A museum in Reykjanesbær that houses the Íslendingur, a replica of a Viking ship that sailed from Iceland to North America in 2000, celebrating the Viking discovery of the continent.

  3. Duus Museum:

    • An arts and cultural center that hosts various exhibitions and events, showcasing local history and contemporary art.

  4. The Giantess in the Mountain:

    • A unique attraction based on local folklore, housed in a cave at the marina in Reykjanesbær, popular among families and tourists.

  5. The Blue Lagoon:

    • While not within Reykjanesbær itself, the famous geothermal spa is located nearby on the Reykjanes Peninsula and is a significant tourist attraction for those visiting the area.

Modern Reykjanesbær

Today, Reykjanesbær is a dynamic community with a strong emphasis on tourism, aviation, and cultural development. Its strategic location and historical significance continue to make it a vital part of Iceland's infrastructure and economy.