Reykjavik is Iceland’s largest and capital city. It’s also the most northerly national capital in the world. Its location, only slightly south of the Arctic Circle, means it gets only 4 hours of daylight during the shortest days of the winter, and in the summer it’s the opposite, with the nights being almost as bright as the days. Most of Reykjavik is coastline and is located on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. It’s a country full of natural wonders and earthly beauty, so the great outdoors is probably where you will spend most of your time discovering Reykjavik and the surrounding areas. The city itself is highly modernised and unique and its home to almost all entertainment, economic and cultural activities in Iceland. Laugavegur and the roads running off it are home to the best shopping, bars, cafes and restaurants in this very cool but expensive city. Drinking and eating out here can be very expensive, but despite the cost, going out in Reykjavik is a fun experience. The locals usually drink at home (because it’s cheaper) and head out much later in the evenings, so don’t expect bars and clubs to get busy until around 1am at the weekends. Reykjavik is considered to have some of the best nighlife in all of Europe. You ain’t partied until you’ve partied here!

The Gay culture in Reykjavik has, until very recently, been hidden to the public eye. Icelanders are very open and forward-looking and therefore very welcoming to all, including the gay community, especially in Reykjavík. There is no gaybourhood as such here, there are very few gay bars due to people mixing very well and sharing venues, so you should not come across any problems when out partying. The Gay & Lesbian Community Centre welcomes tourists and is a good way to get to know the locals, who all speak excellent English, to find out what’s going on in the city.