3 facts about Reykjavik

For the past few years, Reykjavik has experienced an unprecedented tourist boom. Many have figured it out—this Icelandic capital is unlike any other destination, and in the best way possible. Surrounded by extraordinary natural landscapes, known for its impeccable safety and cleanliness, and a peaceful place with kind-hearted locals. Naturally, the city has gained a stellar reputation. The public consensus is clear: people fall for Reykjavik even before setting foot there. That’s without knowing a few of the city’s quirky secrets.

Did you know that beer was banned in Iceland until 1989? Strong spirits were allowed as early as 1935, but beer remained outlawed. Why? People claimed it encouraged excessive drinking—and its cultural ties to Denmark, Iceland’s former colonial ruler for over 600 years, didn’t help its case. So, no beer for more than 70 years… Today, Icelanders make up for it every March 1st by celebrating Beer Day, with plenty of humor…and plenty of foam!

Same story with dogs, which were banned until 1984 for being considered farm animals and carriers of deadly diseases, giving cats the upper paw, and they still rule today! If you take a look around the city’s landscape, you’ll notice trees and forests are quite rare. This scarcity, along with the lack of nearby stone deposits, led locals to build their homes with an unexpected material: earth, topped with grass. Until the 1960s, people lived in marshy little dens they considered cozy… supposedly?

And while we’re talking about homes, how do you heat yours in winter? Probably wood, electricity, or gas. Well, here in Reykjavik, the city relies on the warmth of the Earth itself. Thanks to the abundance of active volcanoes nearby, about 90% of the city’s hot water and heating needs are met through geothermal energy.

Unconventional, but brilliantly natural, and honestly, I’m all for it.