Top 5 Must Do's in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is located on the southwestern part of the island of Iceland. The population is around 120,000 which gives this capital city a down-home feel regardless of where you are from. Iceland doesn't get as many tourists as many other European capitals making it a great city to visit during vacations such as Spring Break. If you want to get away from loud, bustling cities and see some beauties of nature and man, Reykjavik is the city for you. These are a few things you should put at the top of your to-do list:

5. Hallgrímskirkja - This is the largest church in Iceland and by far the most intimidating. The church rises 244 feet and the pipe organ is no less impressive with 5,275 pipes and weighing in at 25 tons.

4. Reykjavik Art Museum - This art museum is located in an old warehouse near the harbor. Both native and international artwork can be found here. The art styles of the museum are considered contemporary and experimental. Beautiful sculptures by Asmundur Sveinsson can also be found here. Admission is free to all venues.

3. Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach - This is a beautiful geothermal beach on Nautholsvik Bay near downtown Reykjavik. Opening hours change depending on what time of the year, since you can go year-round, but between May and August are the best months and the beach is open during these months from 10am-8pm.

2. Tjörnen - This is a majestic and beautiful lake near the center of Reykjavik and should be one of the first places you go. From here you will have a view of the highly modern City Hall and many typical Icelandic houses across the river. Tjornen located by many shops and during the winter you will find a large amount of birds hanging around the pond (that are really not afraid of people). This is a typical Icelandic view though almost dreamy to those who have never been.

1. Iceland Airwaves Festival - If you can make it to this festival, you will not be disappointed. It is held in mid-October for 5 days. It was first held in 1999 in an airplane hanger. The festival is all around the downtown of Reykjavik, from individual homes to great local clubs. Ticket prices change each year so it is best to visit the website to see all of the acts and the price of tickets. Over 200 artists are scheduled to play.