Around Reykjavik

Informed by on-the-ground research, Herb Lester's handy, folded guides uncover what makes a city special - its most distinctive shops, restaurants, cafés, bars, museums and galleries, whether unmissable old favourites, exciting new arrivals or overlooked treasures. Each entry comes with its own brief description, and a basic map helps the reader get their bearings and make plans. Reykjavik is unlike other cities. Its 120,000 inhabitants sustain a thriving art and music scene and several book and record shops, all in an area that can be strolled across in 30 minutes. The local's love of hot dogs is in keeping with other Nordic cities, but here they're all made from organic lamb. You can spot whales from its shores and they're on its menus too. And then there's the world beyond it, an extraordinary and varied landscape dotted with geysers, glaciers, waterfalls and black sand beaches. Our guide selects some of Reykjavik's highlights, it also offers tips for visitors wishing to explore beyond it, all while still having time to make it back to the city for a comfortable night's sleep.