Day 1: Arriving in Keflavik
After a quick 5.5-hour flight from Pittsburgh, we landed in Keflavik, Iceland’s gateway airport. The air was crisp, and the excitement of being in a new country was palpable. After sorting out the rental car situation (again, manual is your friend!), we were ready to hit the road.
Pro tip: When traveling to Iceland, don’t underestimate the importance of proper gear. Whether you're driving or exploring Reykjavik, the weather can shift from sunny to rainy in no time, so it's a good idea to be prepared for all conditions.
From Keflavik, we headed to Reykjavik, the country’s capital and one of the most charming cities I’ve ever visited. We were excited for our whale-watching tour, but Mother Nature had other plans. It was so rainy that our tour got canceled, which was a little disappointing, but Iceland is full of surprises, so we didn’t let that get us down.
Day 2: Exploring Reykjavik
Instead of whale watching, we decided to dive into the heart of Reykjavik. The city is a perfect blend of modernity and traditional Icelandic culture, and it’s definitely a photographer’s paradise. The architecture here is unlike anything I’ve seen in Pittsburgh. Reykjavik’s buildings are colorful and artistic, with a mix of sharp, minimalist designs and vibrant hues that brighten up even the grayest days.
We spent the day wandering through the streets, capturing the urban vibe and exploring hidden gems around every corner. One of my favorite spots was the Harpa Concert Hall, a stunning glass building with incredible geometric patterns that reflect the changing light. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
Walking around Reykjavik, I was struck by how different it felt compared to Pittsburgh. The city’s scale is much smaller, but the energy is vibrant. The contrast between the striking modern designs and the colorful street art gave the city a dynamic, youthful feel. We snapped some photos along the way, getting both wide-angle shots and intimate close-ups of the architecture. I can’t wait to share these images with you all.
Looking Forward
Our time in Keflavik and Reykjavik was just the beginning. Even though the weather threw us a curveball, we embraced the adventure. We explored the city’s cool urban scene and set our sights on the next part of our Iceland journey, which is just as exciting.
Looking Forward
Our time in Keflavik and Reykjavik was just the beginning. Even though the weather threw us a curveball, we embraced the adventure. We explored the city’s cool urban scene and set our sights on the next part of our Iceland journey, which is just as exciting.
Stay tuned for the next post, where we’ll dive into the epic landscapes and adventures that Iceland has to offer—trust me, it only gets better from here. For now, enjoy some of my favorite shots from Reykjavik and Keflavik!
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, don’t forget to check your rental car dates, and if you can, learn to drive manual. The adventure is worth it! Also, be sure to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking contrasts of Iceland’s stunning landscapes and vibrant city life.
