Reykjavik Historical Buildings Tour (Self Guided), Reykjavik

Reykjavik, although primarily famous as a base from which to explore the rest of Iceland, is surprisingly full of unique historic locations, many of which are off the beaten path and thus not overrun with tourists. In fact, unless you're accompanied by a historian or knowledgeable local, you can easily walk right past them and not realize their historical importance.

Relatively small in size, the Icelandic capital has no shortage of surprises appealing to people with a wide variety of interests. History buffs will certainly be impressed by the city’s old buildings and relics of its Viking and medieval past.

The places commemorating founders and leaders of various sort, as well as important events in the country, are within a walking distance in the thriving downtown area. Here are some of the historical sights in Reykjavik to be visited while strolling around the city:

Althingishus – the Parliament House built in 1881, one of the oldest stone buildings in Iceland.

The Settlement Exhibition – features the remains of a hall from the Settlement Age (10th century AD), excavated in 2001.

Reykjavik Junior College – the oldest gymnasium in Reykjavík, established 1056.

Stjórnarráðshúsið – home to the Prime Minister's Office, originally built as the first dungeon in Iceland, back in the mid 18th century.

Hofdi – a Reykjavík house best known as the location for the 1986 summit between Ronald Reagan (USA) and Mikhail Gorbachev (USSR).

To broaden your knowledge of Iceland's history and culture, and to discover the historic spots in Reykjavik that you may probably have never heard of, check out this self-guided walking tour and make your stay in the city more enjoyable.