Fly to Reykjavík's Keflavik Airport, meet your tour manager and make the short transfer into the capital. You'll have the rest of the day free. The fascinating city of Reykjavík, or Smoky Bay sits on a promontory jutting into the crystal clear waters of Faxaflói Bay, and is framed by majestic Mount Ejsa. The city’s brightly painted wooden buildings stand in sharp contrast to the stunning beauty of its setting, surrounded by water, distant ice and lava fields dotted with geysers and thermal springs. With a host of restaurants, bars, cafes and shops, Reykjavík justifies its claim to be among Europe’s hippest cities, despite its remote location. This evening, why not head to one of the many eateries in the compact city-centre, which range from the usual fast-food outlets to a host of restaurants serving traditional Icelandic and international cuisine? Seafood is hugely popular, and don’t miss the Icelandic lamb – said to be the best in the world. Wine is notoriously expensive, but beer is a refreshingly cheaper option, with several recently opened craft breweries adding local choice alongside the international brands.

This morning’s included guided tour will be the ideal way to get acquainted with Reykjavík and its surroundings. Among the highlights will be the extraordinary Pearl, a collection of disused water tanks now crowned with a glass dome and converted into a conference centre and meeting place. Take in the views of the city and the harbour beyond from its viewing platform. You’ll also see the Presidential Residence, in its idyllic shore-side setting at Bessastaðir, and the brightly coloured fishing town of Hafnarfjord, as well as the Icelandic Houses of Parliament, the Lutheran Cathedral, the University Quarter and the towering Hallgrim’s Church, Iceland’s tallest – and most memorable – building. This afternoon you'll have the chance to explore Reykjavík further under your own steam, although many will want to join our optional excursion to the world-renowned Blue Lagoon outdoor spa. No visit to Iceland is complete without a dip in these bubbling geothermal pools.