In the city of Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland

 "And that is the way of the world, that some men put errors into circulation and others afterwards try to eradicate those same errors. And so both sorts of men have something to do."

-- Árni Magnússonan, an Icelandic scholar and collector of manuscripts.
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(on the Seltjarnar Peninsula, at the southeastern corner of Faxa Bay, in southwestern Iceland) Reykjavik, the capital of the country, is a gateway to the out-of-this-world natural sites that make up the Golden Circle, like Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.

+ The world's most northerly capital combines colorful buildings, quirky, creative people, eye-popping design, and busy nightlife, with a capricious soul. Yet, the city itself deserves a few days to help you get a feel for icelandic culture. Start by digging into Nordic food (order anything with fish or lamb), then dive into Reykjavik’s legendary music scene -- it is a hub for the indie and electronic musicians that fuel its nightlife. Afterwards, recharge in one of the area’s hot springs. (You can’t go wrong with a soak in the Blue Lagoon baths.)

+ In the long, cold winter, Icelanders warm up in this city's geothermal spas; while, away from the city lights, they can drink in the beauty of the aurora borealis. In the summer, the weather is divine and the days are long. There are also gushing waterfalls, inspiring geysers, expansive glaciers and open spaces filled with Icelandic horses and sheep. Reykjavik also boasts interesting museums and local shops.

+ Iceland's capital is a prime home base for exploring many of the country's most treasured natural wonders, such as the Golden Circle. According to tradition, Reykjavík (“Bay of Smokes”) was founded in 874 by the Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson. Until the 20th century it was a small fishing village and trading post. It was granted municipal powers and designated the administrative center of the Danish-ruled island in 1786. The seat of the parliament since 1843, it became the capital of a self-governing Iceland under the Danish king in 1918 and of the independent Republic of Iceland in 1944.

+ Reykjavík is now a major fishing port and the site of nearly half of the nation’s industries. The city is largely built of concrete and is heated by hot water piped from nearby hot springs. Its many public outdoor swimming pools are also geothermal. Buildings of note include the Parliament Building and the Church of Hallgrímur.

+ Among the city’s cultural highlights are the National and University Library of Iceland, the University of Iceland, the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, and the National Gallery of Iceland. (Árni Magnússon Institute in Iceland is a department within the University of Iceland and is based on his collection of Árni Magnússon manuscripts.