4 Best Sights in Reykjavík, Iceland

Built in 1880–81, this is one of the country's oldest stone buildings. As the building was built while Iceland was under Danish rule (the country declared independence on June 17, 1944), it was designed by Danish architect Ferdinand Meldahl and bears the crown and crest of King Christian IX on the roof. Reliefs above four of the building's second-floor windows depict Iceland's guardian spirits: a giant, a great bird, a bull, and a dragon. Iceland's Alþingi (Parliament) held its first session in AD 930 and therefore can lay claim to being the oldest representative parliament in the world. At that time, the "Þing" (assembly) was held at Þingvellir. You can view the modern-day proceedings from the visitor's gallery here. Depending on the urgency of the agenda, any number of Iceland's 63 members of parliament, from six political parties, may be present. The public can also access a lovely garden space to the rear of Alþingi.

Modern architecture and nature converge at Reykjavík's city hall, a building overlooking Tjörnin Pond. Inside, a three-dimensional model of Iceland, over 76 square meters (819 square feet) in size, is often on display in the gallery when the space isn't being used for official events and other temporary exhibitions.

This low white building, constructed in the 18th century as a prison, today houses the office of the prime minister.

The city's Customs House—a bureaucratic necessity, especially for an island nation—is decorated with an impressive mosaic mural. The piece of art depicts scenes from the local harbor and was designed by Gerð Helgadóttir. There isn't a ton to see inside, but the mural is worth a visit in itself. Rejuvenation of Tryggvagata in recent years has seen the installation of benches and more public space on the expanded sidewalk in front of the mosaic, providing more opportunity to stop and appreciate this massive installation.