The curious displays at the National Museum of Iceland captivate visitors of all ages.

The secrets of the past will open up to you through the compelling stories told at the National Museum of Iceland.

The permanent exhibition at the National Museum, “Making of a Nation – Heritage and History in Iceland”, is conceived as a journey through time and tells the story of Iceland, from the settlement to the present day. It includes about 2000 objects, dating from the Settlement Age to the present, and about 1000 photographs from the 20th century.

Multimedia displays, a hands-on family room with costumes and games and information folders enable everyone to enjoy the exhibition, children alike.

The museum offers a free audio guide in nine languages through the permanent exhibition in your own smartphone. Free guided tour with admission on Saturdays at 11 ( approx. 45 min).

Ten ideas for recreation in and around Reykjavík:

1. Book a boat tour from the Reykjavík marina to watch the whales, puffins or northern lights, go sea angling or on a trip to Viðey Island.
2. Explore the vibrant Grandi harbour area with its fascinating museums, art galleries, speciality shops, a wide range of restaurants, ice cream parlours and a chocolate factory.
3. If you’re in Iceland just for a city break, don’t miss FlyOver Iceland, where you soar across the country’s most spectacular scenery in a simulator.
4. Go on a walking tour of Reykjavík and discover historical buildings, cultural heritage sites, outdoor art, famous landmarks and architectural gems; like Hallgrím’s Church, Harpa (concert hall) and Reykjavík City Hall.
5. Go for a walk on the forested Öskjuhlíð Hill around Perlan before exploring the glass dome building and its fascinating nature exhibition, ice cave and a planetarium.
6. Go on a cycling tour to discover beautiful nature all around the capital area, including the beach and lighthouse on Grótta and the lush Fossvogsdalur and Elliðaárdalur valleys.
7. Be cultural! Visit  the Saga Museum, the Settlement Exhibition, National Gallery of Iceland, Reykjavík Art Museum exhibitions and private galleries in the capital.
8. Go swimming! Try the public thermal pools in the capital, soak in the hot tubs and rush down the slides. If you’re feeling brave, try sea swimming at thermal beach Nauthólsvík, too! Chills guaranteed!
9. Go hiking! All around the capital are mountains for various adventure levels, from the easy Úlfarsfell, Mosfell and Helgafell to the more challenging peaks on Esja and Vífilsfell.
10. If you’re visiting in winter, visit ski resorts Bláfjöll and Skálafell 30 minutes outside Reykjavík with prime slopes and facilities for snowboarding, alpine and cross-country skiing.

For more information and travel tips, go to www.visitreykjavik.is