The gay capital in the North

Þorvaldur and his boyfriend welcome you in the world's most northern capital city, Reykjavik. While it might not be the gayest corner of the globe, Icelanders are very open-minded and liberal - which makes being gay no issue at all here. Þor shares his pick of activities and places to visit in Reykjavik: feast on a smorgasbord, drink in the most authentic bars and pubs, and enjoy the natural scenery. Explore the world, experience your pride. 

How gay-friendly is your city? What’s gay life like there?

It won't strike you as the gayest capital, but Reykjavik is indeed very gay-friendly, liberal and free-spirited. The major gay event is Reykjavik Pride, which takes place in the second week of August every year. In order to make the most out of your stay, it's probably best to have someone local guide you around. And of course you should try our fish: Iceland's got the best seafood in the whole world.

What’s your favorite gay place to grab a bite for lunch? A nice dinner?

For lunch, I'd recommend Jómfrúin for a nordic smorgasbord (editor's note, a Scandinavian meal served buffet-style with multiple hot and cold dishes). For dinner I would recommend a place called Resto, it's not a specifically gay place, but it's the best seafood restaurant I know.

© Instagram / aquavitnyc

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Nobody goes to brunch in Reykjavik, we party kind of hard and after-parties are brutal- hey don't forget we're vikings after all LOL. But if you really want to, then I'd recommend getting the so-called 'Truck' at Prikiđ.

© Instagram / magellant

Best gay place and day for a cheap beer or happy hour?

Kiki Queer Bar is the only real bona fide gay club in Reykjavik. But for a nice drink or happy hour I would recommend the gay-popular pub downstairs from Kiki, called Bravó. It's really great!

We’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs?

Again, Kiki is the only totally gay club. But many others are gay-popular, particularly Paloma if you like electro dance music, B5 to feel fancy, and so on. Gay people will feel welcome wherever they go in this city.

© Instagram /kikiqueerbar

What are the best alternative gay bars and clubs where you live?

I could recommend a bar called Boston, it's a really nice place to chill, and offers a big cozy smoking area. Then there's Kaldi Bar, which serves the best beer in town, and if you like a drink with a view then check out Loftiđ, a hostel/bar.

Are there any places related to LGBTQ history?

Walk around Tjörnin, the lake located in the downtown area, where you will also find the statue of Adonis. There, in 1978, the first prominent Icelander came out of the closet in a newspaper interview.

© Instagram / carobain

Can you share a secret or little-known place to visit in your city?

Go to the Reykjavik City Hall and check out the gigantic 3D map of Iceland. It's fun to plan your trip on it.

Any beaches, parks or best other places to chill out?

There is actually a beach, called Nauthólsvík, where geothermal water run-off keeps the sea surprisingly warm year-round. Alternatively, if the skies are clear, try catching the Northern Lights at Grótta Lighthouse, which is situated at the tip of the Reykjavik Peninsula.

 © Unsplash / Tim Trad 

Where you can we get the best view of Reykjavik?

The best view is from across the bay, atop mount Esja, a not-too-tough four-hour hike (800mt). But if you drive further, you can also catch really nice views of Reykjavik at the northern end of the Hvalfjörđur tunnel. Or just go to the top of Hallgrímskirkja church tower in the city's downtown.

Thinking of visiting Reykjavik? Check out more Local Tips and Travel Guide page for this great gay city!  

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