skarfabakki cruise terminal schedule

Reykjavik Cruise Port Guide | 7 Best Things To Do In Reykjavik

Nestled on the country’s southwestern coast, the picturesque Reykjavik is Iceland’s capital and the northernmost capital in the world.

Surrounded on three sides by the sea, the enchanting Iceland captivates with its surreal beauty, from cascading waterfalls and bubbling geysers to Reykjavik’s rich cultural heritage.

Most of Iceland’s population is located in the area surrounding Reykjavik, and so are some of the country’s most popular natural attractions, like the iconic Golden Circle which you can visit on a guided tour from the port.

The port of Reykjavik consists of several cruise terminals, all located within a short driving distance from downtown.

In this Reykjavik cruise port guide, I share the Reykjavik cruise terminal overview and the 7 best things to do in Reykjavik cruise port , including the popular shore excursions (Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and others).

Visit also our cruise port guides to Akureyri , Isafjordur , Seydisfjordur , Amsterdam , Lerwick , Edinburgh , Inverness

Reykjavik Cruise Port

The port of Reykjavik consists of three cruise ship terminals: Skarfabakki, Miðbakki, and Kornagarður terminals.

• Skarfabakki cruise terminal (aka Skarfabakki Harbour; berth length 650 m) is the main, modernly equipped cruise terminal, located around 4 km/2.5 miles from downtown Reykjavik. This terminal lies within the Sundahöfn area and can accommodate up to two large cruise ships simultaneously. Free shuttle buses are usually provided to transfer passengers downtown, while other transportation options include public buses and taxis. The ride to Reykjavik downtown takes about 10 minutes each way. Several sightseeing tour agencies and car rentals are available outside the terminal.
• Kornagarður terminal is adjacent to Skarfabakki terminal (the distance is less than 1 km/0.6 miles) and consists of one berth that can accommodate smaller cruise vessels (berth length 184 m).
• Miðbakki cruise terminal is conveniently located in the historic Old Harbour, within easy walking distance from Reykjavik’s main city attractions, such as Harpa Concert Hall, Reykjavik City Hall, and the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral. The berth length is 205 meters.

Getting Around Reykjavik Port

• Although Reykjavik has a great public bus network, downtown is easily walkable and the major city highlights can be visited on foot. Reykjavik Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus tours are also available and they usually depart from Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, next to the Old Harbour. Some may depart from the cruise terminal.
• The best and most efficient way to get around Iceland is by car (check out the rent-a-car deals in Reykjavik ) or on a guided shore excursion.
• The official currency in Iceland is the Icelandic króna (ISK) but euros are also accepted. You can pay almost everywhere by card, except for the bus where they take only cash. 
• The major cruise lines sailing to Reykjavik include Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, and Viking Ocean Cruises . See Reykjavik cruise ship schedule
• Explore Reykjavik tours and activities
• Check out private transfer to/from Reykjavik cruise port

Watch my YouTube video on Reykjavik cruise port, city highlights & Golden Circle tour!

7 Best Things to Do in Reykjavik Cruise Port

Reykjavik is best known for its vibrant cultural scene and its unique geothermal hot springs such as the Blue Lagoon. Natural landscapes made of glaciers and volcanoes and the iconic Golden Circle are best explored on a day trip from Reykjavik.

Those who decide to stay in Reykjavik can taste the city’s authentic food , go shopping in Laugavegur and Bankastaeti streets, or visit historic landmarks.

Here are the 7 best things to do in Reykjavik Iceland!

1. Hallgrímskirkja

The iconic Hallgrmskirkja cathedral stands tall in the heart of Reykjavik, inviting you to marvel at its remarkable architecture. Completed in 1986, it stands as the country’s tallest church, with a striking modern design reminiscent of volcanic basalt columns.

Named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson, the cathedral features a distinctive tower that you can climb via the elevator. Once at the top, you can admire spectacular views of Reykjavik (in the picture above), the ocean, and distant mountainous landscapes.

The interior of Hallgrímskirkja is minimalist, housing a large pipe organ and a statue of Leif Erikson, the Viking explorer believed to be the first European to reach North America.

Explore Hallgrmskirkja tours and activities

2. Harpa Concert Hall

Nestled on the city’s waterfront, the award-winning Harpa Concert Hall was opened in 2011 and is home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra.

The concert hall hosts a variety of performances, including classical concerts, operas, and contemporary music events, and contains multiple halls and spaces for conferences, exhibitions, and events.

Harpa’s striking glass facade, designed by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson and Danish firm, Henning Larsen Architects, reflects Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and captures the ever-changing natural light.

You can book a guided tour and take time to explore the various halls and spaces within Harpa, including the Eldborg Hall, the main concert hall known for its excellent acoustics.

Check out Harpa Concert Hall tours and activities

3. Perlan (The Pearl)

The striking Perlan (The Pearl) is a prominent landmark and cultural center that sits on Öskjuhlíð hill, just outside the city and a 10-15 minute drive from Reykjavik cruise port.

Originally built as hot water storage tanks, the structure was transformed into a multi-purpose complex and is known for its imposing mirrored glass dome and outstanding architecture.

The glass dome nowadays serves as a 360-degree observation deck, offering magnificent panoramic views of Reykjavik, the surrounding mountains, and the ocean.

Perlan houses several museums and exhibition spaces, so visitors are invited to engage with informative exhibits that dive into Iceland’s natural wonders, featuring glaciers, geysers, and the enchanting Northern Lights (“The Wonders of Iceland” exhibition).

Additionally, the Áróra Northern Lights Planetarium and the Glaciers and Ice Cave exhibition provide immersive experiences.

There is also a revolving restaurant that offers a dining experience with changing views of the city.

Explore Perlan tours and activities

4. National Museum of Iceland

The National Museum, located in Reykjavik, only a 10-15-minute drive from the cruise port, is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and heritage of Iceland.

Designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson, the building’s architecture is influenced by traditional Icelandic turf houses, blending modern design with historical elements.

Visitors can explore displays of the settlement of Iceland, the medieval period, the Reformation, and the struggle for independence in the 20th century.

Over 2.000 artifacts such as tools, clothing, and household items provide insights into the daily lives of Icelanders throughout the centuries. In addition to its permanent displays, the National Museum hosts temporary exhibitions and offers educational programs and activities for schools and visitors of all ages.

The museum also features a gift shop where you can purchase books, souvenirs, and traditional Icelandic items. There is also a café where guests can relax and enjoy refreshments.

Explore the National Museum of Iceland tours and activities

5. Golden Circle Tour

The iconic Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in Iceland, encompassing a circuit of approximately 300 km/190 miles that covers some of the country’s most stunning natural landmarks.

The tour typically includes three primary stops: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Iceland, renowned for its historical, cultural, and geological significance.

Located less than a 1-hour drive from Reykjavik, the site was formed by the collision of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, resulting in a stunning landscape of rocky cliffs and fissures. Þingvellir is also home to the Alþingi, one of the world’s oldest parliamentary assemblies, established in 930 AD.

The breathtaking Gullfoss Waterfall , nestled along the Hvítá River, lies approximately 120 km/75 miles (a 1h 40 minutes drive) from Reykjavik port. Often referred to as the “Golden Falls,” it features a stunning two-tiered cascade that plunges into a rugged canyon.

Visitors are captivated by its powerful flow and mesmerizing beauty, especially when the sun creates vibrant rainbows in the mist. 

The third stop on this remarkable journey is at Geysir Geothermal Area , situated around 110 km/70 miles (a 1h 40-minute drive) from the port. Here you can witness the thrilling eruptions of the active geysers, including the famous Strokkur, which erupts approximately every 5-10 minutes, shooting hot water high into the air.

At all these stops, there are visitor centers where you can buy souvenirs, snacks, coffee, and use restrooms.

The Golden Circle Tour is a full-day tour and lasts around 7 hours. You can consider booking an excursion through your cruise line or with a reliable tour operator, or rent a car and plan your itinerary on your own. Keep in mind that cruise lines sell this tour at up to 3x higher prices than independent tour operators.

When I visited Reykjavik, I booked a tour through Viator and selected the meeting place at Harpa Concert Hall because this was the shuttle bus drop-off/pick-up point. Everything was perfect and we returned 2 hours before “All aboard time”. Here’s the link to the tour I booked: https://viator.tp.st/mijSZwA6

Explore Golden Circle Tours

6. Blue Lagoon

Located only 50 km/31 miles (a 45-minute drive) southwest of Reykjavik, this world-famous geothermal spa offers a unique bathing experience in mineral-rich waters heated by Earth’s forces.

Surrounded by captivating lava fields, the lagoon’s warm, milky-blue waters are known for their skin-healing properties. Visitors can pre-book tickets for a relaxing soak, enjoy the on-site amenities, and even apply the iconic silica mud masks.

To reach the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik cruise port, consider booking a transfer or excursion through your cruise line or via independent tour operators.

Explore Blue Lagoon tours and activities

7. Whale Watching

Embark on an unforgettable whale-watching tour departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, offering an opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of Iceland’s coastal waters.

Once aboard, you’ll navigate the Atlantic waters in search of minke and humpback whales gracefully swimming in their natural habitat.

Make sure to keep your eyes open for playful dolphins dancing in the waves and charming puffins gracefully gliding across the sea!

Check out Whale Watching tours and activities

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Facilities and service

Cruise Port Facilities Information

Skarfabakki parking layout Terminal-312

Skarfabakki parking layout Terminal-315

Korngarður parking layout

To request access to the ports of Faxaflóahafnir please email your request to [email protected] .

The necessary information that needs to be provided in the application includes:

• Identity of the responsible individual or party
• Vehicle number/s
• Intended purpose for accessing the port area
• The specific port area that is being requested

Onshore Power Supply at Miðbakki and Faxagarður

Low Voltage Shore Connection in Reykjavík (Technical information)

The environmental port index (EPI)

EPI information and requirements

For the most recent version of this page, visit:

www.cruiseandsea.com

https://www.cruiseandsea.com/port/reykjavik-iceland/

Reykjavik Iceland

The capital of Iceland is Reykjavík , located in the far north-west of Europe. Almost half of Iceland’s population lives in this city where the sun shines almost 24 hours a day in the summer. Cruise ships stop in Reykjavik between May and October. In winter, the night lastst 20 hours, which doesn’t stop residents from defying the coldness in the pubs and thanks to their distinct humour.

Iceland’s landscape of volcanic soils is described as lunar. The painted houses brightened the landscape. Geothermal energy draws on the heat produced by volcanoes to produce energy. This region is known for its fishing gastronomy, for its handicrafts and for making unique woolly sweaters.

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Useful Information

Icelandic (the majority of residents also speak English, several posters are also in English)

None are required (except for your tour guides), but you can round up the bill (exept for you guides)

ISK Icelandic króna - Credit cards are accepted in most businesses. It is not possible to convert your crowns to other coins in Iceland, so be sure to withdraw only the amount you will need for your stay.

Time difference

from New York: +4h

from San Francisco: +6h

from London: -1h

Where is located the Port of Reykjavík Cruise Terminal

Travelling around the reykjavik cruise port, how to get from reykjavík airport to the port.

Keflavik International Airport is located 50km from Reykjavíkport. Taxis are availabe 24 hours a day at the airport.

A bus transfer service is available and the journey to Reykjavík will take 45 minutes. Wi-Fi is free on the bus. Buy your tickets online before you leave.

The public transport will take you more than 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Private transport are available.

Directions from Airport to Cruise terminal

• directions_boat Old Port
• directions_boat Skarfabakki wharf

Directions from Cruise terminal to Airport

A shuttle bus is usually available to get to the centre of the city. Tickets are on sale at the port shop (10 euro or 14 euro for a round trip in 2014) Otherwise, a paved path (Shore walk) along the sea also goes to the center of the city, mall it takes at least 45 minutes to walk. Points of interest in the centre of the city are within walking distance of each other.

A transit service is also in operation.

Activities in Reykjavik

Rebate cards, reykjavík city card.

The Reykjavik Welcome Card gives you free access to public transit and several museums and municipal swimming pools, plus discounts at other museums and restaurants.

Neighborhoods

A walking tour of the Old Town will allow you to enjoy the bustling old harbour, colourful buildings and the sculptures and murals you will come across on your way.

Église Hallgrmskirkja

This unique church is a symbol of the city. An elevator take you to an observation deck.

Saga Museum

Museum on the history of the Vikings. Scenes are recreated to demonstrate the history of the first inhabitants of Iceland. Audioguide available in French.

National Museum of Iceland

This small museum about Iceland’s history is located on the southwest corner of the pond (Tjorn).

Reykjavík City Museum

This museum has two exhibitions. The Arbaer Museum, an open-air museum of 30 buildings that show how the people of Reykjavik lived. The exhibition Reykjavik 871± 2 is based on the discovery of a house dating back 871 (± two years). You can also see Viking artifacts found nearby.

Reykjavík Maritime Museum

Reykjavik Maritime History Museum

Reykjavík Art Museum’s

This museum is composed of three buildings scattered throughout the city. The building housing contemporary art, located near the Old Port, is the easiest to access. The other two buildings have paintings and sculptures and are accessible by taxi.

Perlan (Pearl)

A hot water storage facility transformed into a tourist attraction with restaurants and observation decks. free.

Blue Lagoon

These artificial geothermal-heated pools are part of a health centre. They were created during the construction of the geothermal power plant when the water ceased to be absorbed by the ground. The minerals that have been deposited at the bottom give it this color. The property is 40 minutes from the city centre. Tour companies offer express buses from the BSI bus terminal. Open 9 hours a day in summer and 10 hours rest of the season. Entrance 30 euros includes locker (rental of extra towels).

Excursions in Reykjavik

• Golden Circle - To see a Geyser, the gullfoss waterfall (the widest in Europe) and Thingvellir, a national park, site of Europe’s first parliament, where you can observe the meeting of the tectonic plates of Europe and America.
• Volcanoes and Glaciers - Different excursions will allow you to see volcanoes and/or glaciers. From helicopter tours to 4X4 tours , there’s something for everyone.
• Horse Riding - discovering Iceland’s landscapes on horseback.
• Whale and Bird Watching (Puffins) - These tours are offered by your cruise line or from the Old Port via Special Tours
• City tour - Several city tours (on foot or by bus) are offered and also combine other attractions such as a swim at the Blue lagoon or a visit to museums.
• Bike Tour and bike hire

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Useful References

• Tourism Board - Reykjavik
• Tourism Board - Iceland
• Reykjavik on Wikipedia
• Iceland on Wikipedia
• Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)

For details or to book an excursion, visit our page:

Alternative:

https://www.viator.com/en-CA/Reykjavik/d905-ttd?pid=P00045706&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=morebutton

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Reykjavik cruise port

Iceland - greenland - faroe islands.

• Coordinates 64.154, -21.939
• LOCODE ISREY
• Local Time 2024-09-26 21:21

Reykjavik cruise ship schedule

• Temperature

• Iceland and Greenland

Reykjavik City Center transfer to Cruise Port

By mi3stooges , January 18 in Iceland and Greenland

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I am looking for suggestions, experience and/or links for transportation from the city center in Reykjavik to the Skarfabakki 312 Cruise Terminal.  I love to plan and research my trips (cruise or land) but Iceland has me stumped!  TYIA!!

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you are looking at a distance of under 3 miles (average)  .. there are plenty of taxi.

Our last cruise ended in Reyk' and the hotel was about 1.5 miles. Taxi was easy and credit card was easy to use ....

9 minutes ago, Capt_BJ said: you are looking at a distance of under 3 miles (average)  .. there are plenty of taxi.   Our last cruise ended in Reyk' and the hotel was about 1.5 miles. Taxi was easy and credit card was easy to use ....

Do you remember the approximate cost?   Anytime I do a search or "mock" reservation, its like $127!!

I do not remember the exact cost but I do remember it was nothing to get excited about. BUT do be aware that just about everything in Iceland is gonna seem $$ as compared to US.

ALSO the hotel we stayed at - FOSS - had a desk in the lobby to help arrange transportation / tours and the such and answer questions. We found them VERY helpful and service with a smile!

Are you familiar with the geography? Know where the cruise port is?

We also took a taxi, and I remember the cost being very reasonable.  For 2 people I remember it being the same cost as 2 tix on the shuttle bus, so taxi worked great.   Just ask the taxi driver where the best place is to find a taxi downtown for the return trip.   there was not a lot of taxi's driving around downtown but there were some.  There is a sign that says taxi stand near the main park downtown.

$127 is approximately the cost of a taxi from KEF Airport, 45 minutes from the city, to Reykjavik.  It might be a bit higher than that.

For a 3 mile trip in the city I'd expect $25-30 at most.  Remember, tipping is not part of the culture.

I've used taxifarefinder for Reykjavik in the past for decent estimates

When we were in Reykjavik last summer there was a general bus providing service between Harpa Concert Hall and Skarfabakki. To my understanding, this was a free shuttle running from morning to night (11 am to 10 pm or 8:30 am to 10 pm depending on who we asked) coordinated by the port authorities and not under the domain of any particular cruise ship/line. If you're looking simply for transportation, this might also be considered as an option. I don't know if this would accommodate any luggage or require showing any cruise card for passage, however, and I'm sorry to not have further information on the frequency/availability of the service. You can see in the helpful image provided by Capt_BJ above the road running along the coast - there is also a wide, paved sidewalk pretty much parallel that, all else failing and weather-permitting, can be easily walked between the city and Skarfabakki, though it will take approximately 45 minutes one way, minimum. (I believe you can see Harpa as the dark, geometric building near the '41.')

If you're seeking to board your cruise after arriving and staying in Reykjavik, then the taxi advice and/or asking in the hotel lobby as provided above may be the most convenient method. Skarfabakki itself is not remote - it's also a stop on the Reykjavik Hop-On Hop-Off, even, though I don't think the HOHO would be quite as convenient or cost effective as other options offered overall due to its ticket cost, relative infrequency, and limited daytime schedule.

In reverse-- from the OPs initial question...are taxis at the cruise terminal to get into "town" at  Ingólfur Square if I want to do a walking tour? This would be in the am from an overnight of an NCL ship.

mort&fran

On 1/19/2024 at 9:56 AM, Nitemare said:   For a 3 mile trip in the city I'd expect $25-30 at most.  Remember, tipping is not part of the culture.

What are the suggested tips for cruise-tour guides and bus drivers? 

On 1/26/2024 at 2:09 PM, mort&fran said:   What are the suggested tips for cruise-tour guides and bus drivers? 

Tipping is not part of the culture. People are paid a fair and living wage.  Iceland is a beautiful and unspoiled country.  Let's try to keep it that way.

TY @Nitemare

Are you living in Iceland and not in need of tips.

6 minutes ago, Fogfog said: TY @Nitemare Are you living in Iceland and not in need of tips.      

I have been there five times and talked to folks in all walks of tourism. They won’t turn down a tip, but hey think it is odd and it is unnecessary.

Me?  I don’t need tips, either. I get paid appropriately for my job by my employer.

59 minutes ago, Nitemare said: I have been there five times and talked to folks in all walks of tourism. They won’t turn down a tip, but hey think it is odd and it is unnecessary.   Me?  I don’t need tips, either. I get paid appropriately for my job by my employer.

In our experience...(living and traveling overseas) there is plenty of fleecing of the tourists vs the local pricing in many parts of the world..so ok--no "tips" necessary..  

yet the locals don't pay nearly what is charged during "season"

OTOH--  many "cultures" do not tip, and "pride" themselves on it--and scoff at those who do tip...

yet many of the locals/services in the 3rd world are Not paid a living wage... 

Generosity is never wrong.

• 1 month later...

I'm going to piggy back on this older thread and ask about getting from the  Skarfabakki-312 cruise terminal into the city. We're on the the Nieuw Statendam from 7am to 7pm and I'm struggling to find the best transport. I'm not adverse to spending on cabs but I'm seeing reports of hours long waits at the terminal for cabs, plus it's a turn around day for HAL. There will be people both disembarking and embarking for their cruise so there will be a lot of people for HAL alone and there are two other ships in that day. 

The city bus options seem to be "walk half an hour and grab a bus. I'm not coming up with a free option from the port but I do see a HOHO bus that seems to pickup nearby. Does anyone have any other information? 

I can't add much, I have only been there once.  However, for our stop (Celebrity cruise - only 1 ship in port) we had no wait for a taxi from port to downtown and also no wait for the return.  I seem to remember a shuttle bus  (not HOHO, and not city bus) that was also waiting at the port and there was no line.   We could purchase tix for the shuttle bus on board the ship.

Me, I'd walk it.  Of course if you have too much luggage that's out, but your best alternative is a taxi.  You could check www.straeto.is which is the public bus service to see if they cover your route.  You'd need their app or cash to pay, I believe

• 3 months later...

On 4/1/2024 at 10:49 AM, Nitemare said: Me, I'd walk it.  Of course if you have too much luggage that's out, but your best alternative is a taxi.  You could check www.straeto.is which is the public bus service to see if they cover your route.  You'd need their app or cash to pay, I believe

Hi there! My question is are you allowed to walk into the port or take a private car?  Our plan is to rent a van for the 6 of us for the few days we'll be in Reykjavik before the cruise and our thought is to have the driver drop all of us at the port with luggage and he return the car and walk back to the port.  Do you know if this possible? Sometimes ports have a lot of security and not sure if they'd allow this?

On 7/5/2024 at 5:40 AM, seadayfan said: Hi there! My question is are you allowed to walk into the port or take a private car?  Our plan is to rent a van for the 6 of us for the few days we'll be in Reykjavik before the cruise and our thought is to have the driver drop all of us at the port with luggage and he return the car and walk back to the port.  Do you know if this possible? Sometimes ports have a lot of security and not sure if they'd allow this?

if you can't drive all the way in, I am certain your driver could get you really close.  We have plenty of threads about parking at the port, that I don't think you will have any issues with this plan

On 1/20/2024 at 12:59 AM, Crewbie said: When we were in Reykjavik last summer there was a general bus providing service between Harpa Concert Hall and Skarfabakki. To my understanding, this was a free shuttle running from morning to night (11 am to 10 pm or 8:30 am to 10 pm depending on who we asked) coordinated by the port authorities and not under the domain of any particular cruise ship/line. If you're looking simply for transportation, this might also be considered as an option. I don't know if this would accommodate any luggage or require showing any cruise card for passage, however, and I'm sorry to not have further information on the frequency/availability of the service. You can see in the helpful image provided by Capt_BJ above the road running along the coast - there is also a wide, paved sidewalk pretty much parallel that, all else failing and weather-permitting, can be easily walked between the city and Skarfabakki, though it will take approximately 45 minutes one way, minimum. (I believe you can see Harpa as the dark, geometric building near the '41.')   If you're seeking to board your cruise after arriving and staying in Reykjavik, then the taxi advice and/or asking in the hotel lobby as provided above may be the most convenient method. Skarfabakki itself is not remote - it's also a stop on the Reykjavik Hop-On Hop-Off, even, though I don't think the HOHO would be quite as convenient or cost effective as other options offered overall due to its ticket cost, relative infrequency, and limited daytime schedule.

I just heard about this free shuttle from Harpa to Skarfabakki and will give it a shot in a couple of weeks. Worst case I grab a taxi. Our hotel is right around the corner.

On 7/11/2024 at 7:51 AM, StooBush said:   I just heard about this free shuttle from Harpa to Skarfabakki and will give it a shot in a couple of weeks. Worst case I grab a taxi. Our hotel is right around the corner.   -S  

Was there a free shuttle from Skarfabakki to Harpa Concert Hall? Do you know the frequency/schedule of service? How was the taxi availability at the port? Hope you had a great trip! 

16 hours ago, TeamCan said: Was there a free shuttle from Skarfabakki to Harpa Concert Hall? Do you know the frequency/schedule of service? How was the taxi availability at the port? Hope you had a great trip! 

Yes! Yes there was a free shuttle from Harpa to Skarfabakki, and presumably the bus went the reverse route as well, though I didn't take the bus the other way. There were at least two types of buses, one that had Free Cruise Shuttle (or something similar) on the side, and the other which showed a map with Harpa and the two Skarfabakki docks with a loop. It wasn't obvious but that bus was free as well.

Easiest trip to a port ever. I'm sure there were taxis at the port, but I wasn't really paying attention. I will tell you that cabs in Reykjavik cost a fortune.

As for the cruise, we had some weather issues that cancelled 2 Iceland ports, and we high-tailed it across the North Atlantic where we ended up doing 2 days of scenic cruising in Prince Christian Sound fjords in Greenland, which was the most beautiful waterway I've ever travelled though.

Great trip, even if the NCL Star isn't exactly the jewel of the fleet. Really good entertainment on the boat, too (even if one of the performers had to catch up to the boat after he couldn't board at a cancelled port!). I may do a review of the cruise if I find the energy.

On 8/12/2024 at 1:47 PM, StooBush said:   Yes! Yes there was a free shuttle from Harpa to Skarfabakki, and presumably the bus went the reverse route as well, though I didn't take the bus the other way. There were at least two types of buses, one that had Free Cruise Shuttle (or something similar) on the side, and the other which showed a map with Harpa and the two Skarfabakki docks with a loop. It wasn't obvious but that bus was free as well.   Easiest trip to a port ever. I'm sure there were taxis at the port, but I wasn't really paying attention. I will tell you that cabs in Reykjavik cost a fortune.   As for the cruise, we had some weather issues that cancelled 2 Iceland ports, and we high-tailed it across the North Atlantic where we ended up doing 2 days of scenic cruising in Prince Christian Sound fjords in Greenland, which was the most beautiful waterway I've ever travelled though.   Great trip, even if the NCL Star isn't exactly the jewel of the fleet. Really good entertainment on the boat, too (even if one of the performers had to catch up to the boat after he couldn't board at a cancelled port!). I may do a review of the cruise if I find the energy.   -S  

Thanks so much for the info! Sorry that the weather issues caused cancellation of 2 Iceland ports, but glad you had a great trip overall. I've heard Prins Christianssund fjord is beautiful... unfortunately our cruise doesn't go there.  I'd love to read your cruise review if you post it.

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Cruises To Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik Visiting Cruises Calendar

• Concierge Service in Iceland
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Cruising into Reykjavík: The Mystery of the Free Shuttle

Your Arrival in Reykjavík

After days of marveling at Iceland’s dramatic coastline from your cruise ship, Reykjavík gleams on the horizon. Eager to explore the city up close, you might wonder, “Is there a free shuttle bus taking me directly to all the cool spots downtown?”

The Case of the Missing Free Shuttle

From our experiences operating in Skarfabakki area Reykjavík, we’ve noticed that the cruise terminals here don’t always offer a free shuttle service, which can catch some travelers off guard. However, with a bit of planning, you can still ensure a smooth arrival.

Firstly, it’s essential to contact your cruise line directly for the most current information on complimentary shuttles, including their schedules and pick-up points. These shuttles are available only on the days when cruises are docked, so knowing this in advance is crucial.

When the shuttle is operating, it’s important to be prepared for a potentially long wait. We’ve seen firsthand how the line can stretch out with passengers and their luggage, all eager to board. Remember, though it’s a free service, patience is key.

The shuttle will drop you off at the Harpa Concert Hall , a central and iconic location in Reykjavík. From there, you’ll need to make your way to your final destination.

Your Transportation Toolkit: Getting to Reykjavík Like a Pro

If you didn’t get any information from your cruise line, don’t worry. Here are some alternative suggestions:

The Classic Reykjavik Taxi

Taxis offer instant convenience. You’ll find them lined up right outside the cruise terminal, ready to whisk you into the city. Just be aware that fares can add up for larger groups or lots of luggage, and you might have to wait in Taxi line at the Skarfabakki port 2024 during busy arrival times. The wait is sometimes one hour or more, and this is not an exaggeration.

The Budget-Friendly City Bus

Iceland has a fantastic public bus system called Strætó. Bus stops are usually close to the terminals, and routes take you right into the heart of Reykjavík. Check out Strætó’s website for timetables and ticket prices – it’s an affordable way to travel like a local. Unfortunately, it’s not directly located in the area.

The VIP Treatment: Private Transfers

Want to arrive in style with zero transportation stress? That’s where private transfer services come in. It’s like having your chauffeur waiting dockside – no crowds, no waiting, just direct transport to your hotel or anywhere else you want to go. Our driver will wait for you with a sign with your name where you exit the terminal.

Iceland Highlights: Your Ride Awaits

At Iceland Highlights Travel Agency, we specialize in ensuring smooth arrivals for cruise passengers. Our private transfer service is all about:

• No-Fuss Convenience: We meet you at the terminal, handle your luggage, and zip you off to Reykjavík without any of the usual transportation hassles.
• Tailored to You: Pick your own day, time, and drop-off location. We’re flexible!
• Time is Precious: Reaching downtown quickly means more time to soak up Reykjavík’s charm.

To find out more or book our cozy transfer service, check our transfer service page .

Reykjavík Awaits: Explore and Enjoy

Whether you hop on a bus, hail a taxi, or roll in with your private ride, Reykjavík is ready to welcome you. This city has a unique vibe, from its colorful houses to its friendly people and proximity to incredible natural wonders.

Explore More with the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

For an effortless way to explore Reykjavík, consider the Reykjavík City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus . This convenient service allows you to visit key attractions at your own pace, offering flexibility and comprehensive city coverage. From June to September, the Hop on and Hop Off bus stop at the Skarfabakki 312.

Skarfabakki Terminal Updates: What You Need to Know

Stay up-to-date with the latest news and developments at Skarfabakki Terminal , Reykjavik’s main cruise port. The terminal is currently undergoing major construction and modernization, with exciting changes on the horizon.

The new and improved Skarfabakki Terminal is expected to be fully operational by 2026, providing enhanced facilities and services for cruise passengers. To learn more about these updates and what to expect during your visit, check out our comprehensive Cruise Passengers’ Guide to Skarfabakki Terminal Updates .

Stay tuned for more information as the project progresses, and prepare for a better travel experience in Iceland!

Ready for a Stress-Free Arrival?

Ensure a smooth start to your Reykjavík adventure by planning your transportation in advance. Whether you choose a city cab, a budget-friendly bus, or a VIP private transfer, you’ll be well on your way to exploring one of the world’s most vibrant and unique cities. Book your transfer today and enjoy a seamless transition from your cruise ship to the heart of Reykjavík.

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• Places - European, Western and Northern Russia

YEKATERINBURG: FACTORIES, URAL SIGHTS, YELTSIN AND THE WHERE NICHOLAS II WAS KILLED

Sverdlovsk oblast.

Sverdlovsk Oblast is the largest region in the Urals; it lies in the foothills of mountains and contains a monument indicating the border between Europe and Asia. The region covers 194,800 square kilometers (75,200 square miles), is home to about 4.3 million people and has a population density of 22 people per square kilometer. About 83 percent of the population live in urban areas. Yekaterinburg is the capital and largest city, with 1.5 million people. For Russians, the Ural Mountains are closely associated with Pavel Bazhov's tales and known for folk crafts such as Kasli iron sculpture, Tagil painting, and copper embossing. Yekaterinburg is the birthplace of Russia’s iron and steel industry, taking advantage of the large iron deposits in the Ural mountains. The popular Silver Ring of the Urals tourist route starts here.

In the summer you can follow in the tracks of Yermak, climb relatively low Ural mountain peaks and look for boulders seemingly with human faces on them. You can head to the Gemstone Belt of the Ural mountains, which used to house emerald, amethyst and topaz mines. In the winter you can go ice fishing, ski and cross-country ski.

Sverdlovsk Oblast and Yekaterinburg are located near the center of Russia, at the crossroads between Europe and Asia and also the southern and northern parts of Russia. Winters are longer and colder than in western section of European Russia. Snowfalls can be heavy. Winter temperatures occasionally drop as low as - 40 degrees C (-40 degrees F) and the first snow usually falls in October. A heavy winter coat, long underwear and good boots are essential. Snow and ice make the sidewalks very slippery, so footwear with a good grip is important. Since the climate is very dry during the winter months, skin moisturizer plus lip balm are recommended. Be alert for mud on street surfaces when snow cover is melting (April-May). Patches of mud create slippery road conditions.

Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg (kilometer 1818 on the Trans-Siberian Railway) is the fourth largest city in Russia, with of 1.5 million and growth rate of about 12 percent, high for Russia. Located in the southern Ural mountains, it was founded by Peter the Great and named after his wife Catherine, it was used by the tsars as a summer retreat and is where tsar Nicholas II and his family were executed and President Boris Yeltsin lived most of his life and began his political career. The city is near the border between Europe and Asia.

Yekaterinburg (also spelled Ekaterinburg) is located on the eastern slope of the Ural Mountains in the headwaters of the Iset and Pyshma Rivers. The Iset runs through the city center. Three ponds — Verkh-Isetsky, Gorodskoy and Nizhne-Isetsky — were created on it. Yekaterinburg has traditionally been a city of mining and was once the center of the mining industry of the Urals and Siberia. Yekaterinburg remains a major center of the Russian armaments industry and is sometimes called the "Pittsburgh of Russia.". A few ornate, pastel mansions and wide boulevards are reminders of the tsarist era. The city is large enough that it has its own Metro system but is characterized mostly by blocky Soviet-era apartment buildings. The city has advanced under President Vladimir Putin and is now one of the fastest growing places in Russia, a country otherwise characterized by population declines

Yekaterinburg is technically an Asian city as it lies 32 kilometers east of the continental divide between Europe and Asia. The unofficial capital of the Urals, a key region in the Russian heartland, it is second only to Moscow in terms of industrial production and capital of Sverdlovsk oblast. Among the important industries are ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy, machine building and metalworking, chemical and petrochemicals, construction materials and medical, light and food industries. On top of being home of numerous heavy industries and mining concerns, Yekaterinburg is also a major center for industrial research and development and power engineering as well as home to numerous institutes of higher education, technical training, and scientific research. In addition, Yekaterinburg is the largest railway junction in Russia: the Trans-Siberian Railway passes through it, the southern, northern, western and eastern routes merge in the city.

Accommodation: There are two good and affordable hotels — the 3-star Emerald and Parus hotels — located close to the city's most popular landmarks and main transport interchanges in the center of Yekaterinburg. Room prices start at RUB 1,800 per night.

History of Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg was founded in 1723 by Peter the Great and named after his wife Catherine I. It was used by the tsars as a summer retreat but was mainly developed as metalworking and manufacturing center to take advantage of the large deposits of iron and other minerals in the Ural mountains. It is best known to Americans as the place where the last Tsar and his family were murdered by the Bolsheviks in 1918 and near where American U-2 spy plane, piloted by Gary Powers, was shot down in 1960.

Peter the Great recognized the importance of the iron and copper-rich Urals region for Imperial Russia's industrial and military development. In November 1723, he ordered the construction of a fortress factory and an ironworks in the Iset River Valley, which required a dam for its operation. In its early years Yekaterinburg grew rich from gold and other minerals and later coal. The Yekaterinburg gold rush of 1745 created such a huge amount of wealth that one rich baron of that time hosted a wedding party that lasted a year. By the mid-18th century, metallurgical plants had sprung up across the Urals to cast cannons, swords, guns and other weapons to arm Russia’s expansionist ambitions. The Yekaterinburg mint produced most of Russia's coins. Explorations of the Trans-Baikal and Altai regions began here in the 18th century.

Iron, cast iron and copper were the main products. Even though Iron from the region went into the Eiffel Tower, the main plant in Yekaterinburg itself was shut down in 1808. The city still kept going through a mountain factory control system of the Urals. The first railway in the Urals was built here: in 1878, the Yekaterinburg-Perm railway branch connected the province's capital with the factories of the Middle Urals.

In the Soviet era the city was called Sverdlovsk (named after Yakov Sverdlov, the man who organized Nicholas II's execution). During the first five-year plans the city became industrial — old plants were reconstructed, new ones were built. The center of Yekaterinburg was formed to conform to the historical general plan of 1829 but was the layout was adjusted around plants and factories. In the Stalin era the city was a major gulag transhipment center. In World War II, many defense-related industries were moved here. It and the surrounding area were a center of the Soviet Union's military industrial complex. Soviet tanks, missiles and aircraft engines were made in the Urals. During the Cold War era, Yekaterinburg was a center of weapons-grade uranium enrichment and processing, warhead assembly and dismantlement. In 1979, 64 people died when anthrax leaked from a biological weapons facility. Yekaterinburg was a “Closed City” for 40 years during the Cold Soviet era and was not open to foreigners until 1991

In the early post-Soviet era, much like Pittsburgh in the 1970s, Yekaterinburg had a hard struggle d to cope with dramatic economic changes that have made its heavy industries uncompetitive on the world market. Huge defense plants struggled to survive and the city was notorious as an organized crime center in the 1990s, when its hometown boy Boris Yeltsin was President of Russia. By the 2000s, Yekaterinburg’s retail and service was taking off, the defense industry was reviving and it was attracting tech industries and investments related to the Urals’ natural resources. By the 2010s it was vying to host a world exhibition in 2020 (it lost, Dubai won) and it had McDonald’s, Subway, sushi restaurants, and Gucci, Chanel and Armani. There were Bentley and Ferrari dealerships but they closed down

Transportation in Yekaterinburg

Getting There: By Plane: Yekaterinburg is a three-hour flight from Moscow with prices starting at RUB 8,000, or a 3-hour flight from Saint Petersburg starting from RUB 9,422 (direct round-trip flight tickets for one adult passenger). There are also flights from Frankfurt, Istanbul, China and major cities in the former Soviet Union.

By Train: Yekaterinburg is a major stop on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Daily train service is available to Moscow and many other Russian cities.Yekaterinburg is a 32-hour train ride from Moscow (tickets RUB 8,380 and above) or a 36-hour train ride from Saint Petersburg (RUB 10,300 and above). The ticket prices are round trip for a berth in a sleeper compartment for one adult passenger). By Car: a car trip from Moscow to Yekateringburg is 1,787 kilometers long and takes about 18 hours. The road from Saint Petersburg is 2,294 kilometers and takes about 28 hours.

Regional Transport: The region's public transport includes buses and suburban electric trains. Regional trains provide transport to larger cities in the Ural region. Buses depart from Yekaterinburg’s two bus stations: the Southern Bus Station and the Northern Bus Station.

Regional Transport: According the to Association for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT): “Public transportation is well developed. Overcrowding is common. Fares are low. Service is efficient. Buses are the main form of public transport. Tram network is extensive. Fares are reasonable; service is regular. Trams are heavily used by residents, overcrowding is common. Purchase ticket after boarding. Metro runs from city center to Uralmash, an industrial area south of the city. Metro ends near the main railway station. Fares are inexpensive.

“Traffic is congested in city center. Getting around by car can be difficult. Route taxis (minivans) provide the fastest transport. They generally run on specific routes, but do not have specific stops. Drivers stop where passengers request. Route taxis can be hailed. Travel by bus or trolleybuses may be slow in rush hour. Trams are less affected by traffic jams. Trolley buses (electric buses) cannot run when temperatures drop below freezing.”

Entertainment, Sports and Recreation in Yekaterinburg

The performing arts in Yekaterinburg are first rate. The city has an excellent symphony orchestra, opera and ballet theater, and many other performing arts venues. Tickets are inexpensive. The Yekaterinburg Opera and Ballet Theater is lavishly designed and richly decorated building in the city center of Yekaterinburg. The theater was established in 1912 and building was designed by architect Vladimir Semyonov and inspired by the Vienna Opera House and the Theater of Opera and Ballet in Odessa.

Vaynera Street is a pedestrian only shopping street in city center with restaurants, cafes and some bars. But otherwise Yekaterinburg's nightlife options are limited. There are a handful of expensive Western-style restaurants and bars, none of them that great. Nightclubs serve the city's nouveau riche clientele. Its casinos have closed down. Some of them had links with organized crime. New dance clubs have sprung up that are popular with Yekaterinburg's more affluent youth.

Yekaterinburg's most popular spectator sports are hockey, basketball, and soccer. There are stadiums and arenas that host all three that have fairly cheap tickets. There is an indoor water park and lots of parks and green spaces. The Urals have many lakes, forests and mountains are great for hiking, boating, berry and mushroom hunting, swimming and fishing. Winter sports include cross-country skiing and ice skating. Winter lasts about six months and there’s usually plenty of snow. The nearby Ural Mountains however are not very high and the downhill skiing opportunities are limited..

Sights in Yekaterinburg

Sights in Yekaterinburg include the Museum of City Architecture and Ural Industry, with an old water tower and mineral collection with emeralds. malachite, tourmaline, jasper and other precious stone; Geological Alley, a small park with labeled samples of minerals found in the Urals region; the Ural Geology Museum, which houses an extensive collection of stones, gold and gems from the Urals; a monument marking the border between Europe and Asia; a memorial for gulag victims; and a graveyard with outlandish memorials for slain mafia members.

The Military History Museum houses the remains of the U-2 spy plane shot down in 1960 and locally made tanks and rocket launchers. The fine arts museum contains paintings by some of Russia's 19th-century masters. Also worth a look are the History an Local Studies Museum; the Political History and Youth Museum; and the University and Arboretum. Old wooden houses can be seen around Zatoutstovsya ulitsa and ulitsa Belinskogo. Around the city are wooded parks, lakes and quarries used to harvest a variety of minerals. Weiner Street is the main street of Yekaterinburg. Along it are lovely sculptures and 19th century architecture. Take a walk around the unique Literary Quarter

Plotinka is a local meeting spot, where you will often find street musicians performing. Plotinka can be described as the center of the city's center. This is where Yekaterinburg holds its biggest events: festivals, seasonal fairs, regional holiday celebrations, carnivals and musical fountain shows. There are many museums and open-air exhibitions on Plotinka. Plotinka is named after an actual dam of the city pond located nearby (“plotinka” means “a small dam” in Russian).In November 1723, Peter the Great ordered the construction of an ironworks in the Iset River Valley, which required a dam for its operation. “Iset” can be translated from Finnish as “abundant with fish”. This name was given to the river by the Mansi — the Finno-Ugric people dwelling on the eastern slope of the Northern Urals.

Vysotsky and Iset are skyscrapers that are 188.3 meters and 209 meters high, respectively. Fifty-story-high Iset has been described by locals as the world’s northernmost skyscraper. Before the construction of Iset, Vysotsky was the tallest building of Yekaterinburg and Russia (excluding Moscow). A popular vote has decided to name the skyscraper after the famous Soviet songwriter, singer and actor Vladimir Vysotsky. and the building was opened on November 25, 2011. There is a lookout at the top of the building, and the Vysotsky museum on its second floor. The annual “Vysotsky climb” (1137 steps) is held there, with a prize of RUB 100,000. While Vysotsky serves as an office building, Iset, owned by the Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company, houses 225 premium residential apartments ranging from 80 to 490 square meters in size.

Boris Yeltsin Presidential Center

The Boris Yeltsin Presidential Center (in the city center: ul. Yeltsina, 3) is a non-governmental organization named after the first president of the Russian Federation. The Museum of the First President of Russia as well as his archives are located in the Center. There is also a library, educational and children's centers, and exposition halls. Yeltsin lived most of his life and began his political career in Yekaterinburg. He was born in Butka about 200 kilometers east of Yekaterinburg.

The core of the Center is the Museum. Modern multimedia technologies help animate the documents, photos from the archives, and artifacts. The Yeltsin Museum holds collections of: propaganda posters, leaflets, and photos of the first years of the Soviet regime; portraits and portrait sculptures of members of Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of various years; U.S.S.R. government bonds and other items of the Soviet era; a copy of “One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich” by Alexander Solzhenitsyn, published in the “Novy Mir” magazine (#11, 1962); perestroika-era editions of books by Alexander Solzhenitsyn, Vasily Grossman, and other authors; theater, concert, and cinema posters, programs, and tickets — in short, all of the artifacts of the perestroika era.

The Yeltsin Center opened in 2012. Inside you will also find an art gallery, a bookstore, a gift shop, a food court, concert stages and a theater. There are regular screenings of unique films that you will not find anywhere else. Also operating inside the center, is a scientific exploritorium for children. The center was designed by Boris Bernaskoni. Almost from the its very opening, the Yeltsin Center has been accused by members of different political entities of various ideological crimes. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00am to 9:00pm.

Where Nicholas II was Executed

On July, 17, 1918, during this reign of terror of the Russian Civil War, former-tsar Nicholas II, his wife, five children (the 13-year-old Alexis, 22-year-old Olga, 19-year-old Maria and 17-year-old Anastasia)the family physician, the cook, maid, and valet were shot to death by a Red Army firing squad in the cellar of the house they were staying at in Yekaterinburg.

Ipatiev House (near Church on the Blood, Ulitsa Libknekhta) was a merchant's house where Nicholas II and his family were executed. The house was demolished in 1977, on the orders of an up and coming communist politician named Boris Yeltsin. Yeltsin later said that the destruction of the house was an "act of barbarism" and he had no choice because he had been ordered to do it by the Politburo,

The site is marked with s cross with the photos of the family members and cross bearing their names. A small wooden church was built at the site. It contains paintings of the family. For a while there were seven traditional wooden churches. Mass is given ay noon everyday in an open-air museum. The Church on the Blood — constructed to honor Nicholas II and his family — was built on the part of the site in 1991 and is now a major place of pilgrimage.

Nicholas and his family where killed during the Russian civil war. It is thought the Bolsheviks figured that Nicholas and his family gave the Whites figureheads to rally around and they were better of dead. Even though the death orders were signed Yakov Sverdlov, the assassination was personally ordered by Lenin, who wanted to get them out of sight and out of mind. Trotsky suggested a trial. Lenin nixed the idea, deciding something had to be done about the Romanovs before White troops approached Yekaterinburg. Trotsky later wrote: "The decision was not only expedient but necessary. The severity of he punishment showed everyone that we would continue to fight on mercilessly, stopping at nothing."

Ian Frazier wrote in The New Yorker: “Having read a lot about the end of Tsar Nicholas II and his family and servants, I wanted to see the place in Yekaterinburg where that event occurred. The gloomy quality of this quest depressed Sergei’s spirits, but he drove all over Yekaterinburg searching for the site nonetheless. Whenever he stopped and asked a pedestrian how to get to the house where Nicholas II was murdered, the reaction was a wince. Several people simply walked away. But eventually, after a lot of asking, Sergei found the location. It was on a low ridge near the edge of town, above railroad tracks and the Iset River. The house, known as the Ipatiev House, was no longer standing, and the basement where the actual killings happened had been filled in. I found the blankness of the place sinister and dizzying. It reminded me of an erasure done so determinedly that it had worn a hole through the page. [Source: Ian Frazier, The New Yorker, August 3, 2009, Frazier is author of “Travels in Siberia” (2010)]

“The street next to the site is called Karl Liebknecht Street. A building near where the house used to be had a large green advertisement that said, in English, “LG—Digitally Yours.” On an adjoining lot, a small chapel kept the memory of the Tsar and his family; beneath a pedestal holding an Orthodox cross, peonies and pansies grew. The inscription on the pedestal read, “We go down on our knees, Russia, at the foot of the tsarist cross.”

Books: The Romanovs: The Final Chapter by Robert K. Massie (Random House, 1995); The Fall of the Romanovs by Mark D. Steinberg and Vladimir Khrustalëv (Yale, 1995);

See Separate Article END OF NICHOLAS II factsanddetails.com

Execution of Nicholas II

According to Robert Massie K. Massie, author of Nicholas and Alexandra, Nicholas II and his family were awakened from their bedrooms around midnight and taken to the basement. They were told they were to going to take some photographs of them and were told to stand behind a row of chairs.

Suddenly, a group of 11 Russians and Latvians, each with a revolver, burst into the room with orders to kill a specific person. Yakob Yurovsky, a member of the Soviet executive committee, reportedly shouted "your relatives are continuing to attack the Soviet Union.” After firing, bullets bouncing off gemstones hidden in the corsets of Alexandra and her daughters ricocheted around the room like "a shower of hail," the soldiers said. Those that were still breathing were killed with point black shots to the head.

The three sisters and the maid survived the first round thanks to their gems. They were pressed up against a wall and killed with a second round of bullets. The maid was the only one that survived. She was pursued by the executioners who stabbed her more than 30 times with their bayonets. The still writhing body of Alexis was made still by a kick to the head and two bullets in the ear delivered by Yurovsky himself.

Yurovsky wrote: "When the party entered I told the Romanovs that in view of the fact their relatives continued their offensive against Soviet Russia, the Executive Committee of the Urals Soviet had decided to shoot them. Nicholas turned his back to the detachment and faced his family. Then, as if collecting himself, he turned around, asking, 'What? What?'"

"[I] ordered the detachment to prepare. Its members had been previously instructed whom to shoot and to am directly at the heart to avoid much blood and to end more quickly. Nicholas said no more. he turned again to his family. The others shouted some incoherent exclamations. All this lasted a few seconds. Then commenced the shooting, which went on for two or three minutes. [I] killed Nicholas on the spot."

Nicholas II’s Initial Burial Site in Yekaterinburg

Ganina Yama Monastery (near the village of Koptyaki, 15 kilometers northwest of Yekaterinburg) stands near the three-meter-deep pit where some the remains of Nicholas II and his family were initially buried. The second burial site — where most of the remains were — is in a field known as Porosyonkov (56.9113628°N 60.4954326°E), seven kilometers from Ganina Yama.

On visiting Ganina Yama Monastery, one person posted in Trip Advisor: “We visited this set of churches in a pretty park with Konstantin from Ekaterinburg Guide Centre. He really brought it to life with his extensive knowledge of the history of the events surrounding their terrible end. The story is so moving so unless you speak Russian, it is best to come here with a guide or else you will have no idea of what is what.”

In 1991, the acid-burned remains of Nicholas II and his family were exhumed from a shallow roadside mass grave in a swampy area 12 miles northwest of Yekaterinburg. The remains had been found in 1979 by geologist and amateur archeologist Alexander Avdonin, who kept the location secret out of fear that they would be destroyed by Soviet authorities. The location was disclosed to a magazine by one his fellow discovers.

The original plan was to throw the Romanovs down a mine shaft and disposes of their remains with acid. They were thrown in a mine with some grenades but the mine didn't collapse. They were then carried by horse cart. The vats of acid fell off and broke. When the carriage carrying the bodies broke down it was decided the bury the bodies then and there. The remaining acid was poured on the bones, but most of it was soaked up the ground and the bones largely survived.

After this their pulses were then checked, their faces were crushed to make them unrecognizable and the bodies were wrapped in bed sheets loaded onto a truck. The "whole procedure," Yurovsky said took 20 minutes. One soldiers later bragged than he could "die in peace because he had squeezed the Empress's -------."

The bodies were taken to a forest and stripped, burned with acid and gasoline, and thrown into abandoned mine shafts and buried under railroad ties near a country road near the village of Koptyaki. "The bodies were put in the hole," Yurovsky wrote, "and the faces and all the bodies, generally doused with sulfuric acid, both so they couldn't be recognized and prevent a stink from them rotting...We scattered it with branches and lime, put boards on top and drove over it several times—no traces of the hole remained.

Shortly afterwards, the government in Moscow announced that Nicholas II had been shot because of "a counterrevolutionary conspiracy." There was no immediate word on the other members of the family which gave rise to rumors that other members of the family had escaped. Yekaterinburg was renamed Sverdlov in honor of the man who signed the death orders.

For seven years the remains of Nicholas II, Alexandra, three of their daughters and four servants were stored in polyethylene bags on shelves in the old criminal morgue in Yekaterunburg. On July 17, 1998, Nicholas II and his family and servants who were murdered with him were buried Peter and Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg along with the other Romanov tsars, who have been buried there starting with Peter the Great. Nicholas II had a side chapel built for himself at the fortress in 1913 but was buried in a new crypt.

Near Yekaterinburg

Factory-Museum of Iron and Steel Metallurgy (in Niznhy Tagil 80 kilometers north of Yekaterinburg) a museum with old mining equipment made at the site of huge abandoned iron and steel factory. Officially known as the Factory-Museum of the History of the Development of Iron and Steel Metallurgy, it covers an area of 30 hectares and contains a factory founded by the Demidov family in 1725 that specialized mainly in the production of high-quality cast iron and steel. Later, the foundry was renamed after Valerian Kuybyshev, a prominent figure of the Communist Party.

The first Russian factory museum, the unusual museum demonstrates all stages of metallurgy and metal working. There is even a blast furnace and an open-hearth furnace. The display of factory equipment includes bridge crane from 1892) and rolling stock equipment from the 19th-20th centuries. In Niznhy Tagil contains some huge blocks of malachite and

Nizhnyaya Sinyachikha (180 kilometers east-northeast of Yekaterinburg) has an open air architecture museum with log buildings, a stone church and other pre-revolutionary architecture. The village is the creation of Ivan Samoilov, a local activist who loved his village so much he dedicated 40 years of his life to recreating it as the open-air museum of wooden architecture.

The stone Savior Church, a good example of Siberian baroque architecture. The interior and exterior of the church are exhibition spaces of design. The houses are very colorful. In tsarist times, rich villagers hired serfs to paint the walls of their wooden izbas (houses) bright colors. Old neglected buildings from the 17th to 19th centuries have been brought to Nizhnyaya Sinyachikha from all over the Urals. You will see the interior design of the houses and hear stories about traditions and customs of the Ural farmers.

Verkhoturye (330 kilometers road from Yekaterinburg) is the home a 400-year-old monastery that served as 16th century capital of the Urals. Verkhoturye is a small town on the Tura River knows as the Jerusalem of the Urals for its many holy places, churches and monasteries. The town's main landmark is its Kremlin — the smallest in Russia. Pilgrims visit the St. Nicholas Monastery to see the remains of St. Simeon of Verkhoturye, the patron saint of fishermen.

Ural Mountains

Ural Mountains are the traditional dividing line between Europe and Asia and have been a crossroads of Russian history. Stretching from Kazakhstan to the fringes of the Arctic Kara Sea, the Urals lie almost exactly along the 60 degree meridian of longitude and extend for about 2,000 kilometers (1,300 miles) from north to south and varies in width from about 50 kilometers (30 miles) in the north and 160 kilometers (100 miles) the south. At kilometers 1777 on the Trans-Siberian Railway there is white obelisk with "Europe" carved in Russian on one side and "Asia" carved on the other.

The eastern side of the Urals contains a lot of granite and igneous rock. The western side is primarily sandstone and limestones. A number of precious stones can be found in the southern part of the Urals, including emeralds. malachite, tourmaline, jasper and aquamarines. The highest peaks are in the north. Mount Narodnaya is the highest of all but is only 1884 meters (6,184 feet) high. The northern Urals are covered in thick forests and home to relatively few people.

Like the Appalachian Mountains in the eastern United States, the Urals are very old mountains — with rocks and sediments that are hundreds of millions years old — that were one much taller than they are now and have been steadily eroded down over millions of years by weather and other natural processes to their current size. According to Encyclopedia Britannica: “The rock composition helps shape the topography: the high ranges and low, broad-topped ridges consist of quartzites, schists, and gabbro, all weather-resistant. Buttes are frequent, and there are north–south troughs of limestone, nearly all containing river valleys. Karst topography is highly developed on the western slopes of the Urals, with many caves, basins, and underground streams. The eastern slopes, on the other hand, have fewer karst formations; instead, rocky outliers rise above the flattened surfaces. Broad foothills, reduced to peneplain, adjoin the Central and Southern Urals on the east.

“The Urals date from the structural upheavals of the Hercynian orogeny (about 250 million years ago). About 280 million years ago there arose a high mountainous region, which was eroded to a peneplain. Alpine folding resulted in new mountains, the most marked upheaval being that of the Nether-Polar Urals...The western slope of the Urals is composed of middle Paleozoic sedimentary rocks (sandstones and limestones) that are about 350 million years old. In many places it descends in terraces to the Cis-Ural depression (west of the Urals), to which much of the eroded matter was carried during the late Paleozoic (about 300 million years ago). Found there are widespread karst (a starkly eroded limestone region) and gypsum, with large caverns and subterranean streams. On the eastern slope, volcanic layers alternate with sedimentary strata, all dating from middle Paleozoic times.”

Southern Urals

The southern Urals are characterized by grassy slopes and fertile valleys. The middle Urals are a rolling platform that barely rises above 300 meters (1,000 feet). This region is rich in minerals and has been heavily industrialized. This is where you can find Yekaterinburg (formally Sverdlovsk), the largest city in the Urals.

Most of the Southern Urals are is covered with forests, with 50 percent of that pine-woods, 44 percent birch woods, and the rest are deciduous aspen and alder forests. In the north, typical taiga forests are the norm. There are patches of herbal-poaceous steppes, northem sphagnous marshes and bushy steppes, light birch forests and shady riparian forests, tall-grass mountainous meadows, lowland ling marshes and stony placers with lichen stains. In some places there are no large areas of homogeneous forests, rather they are forests with numerous glades and meadows of different size.

In the Ilmensky Mountains Reserve in the Southern Urals, scientists counted 927 vascular plants (50 relicts, 23 endemic species), about 140 moss species, 483 algae species and 566 mushroom species. Among the species included into the Red Book of Russia are feather grass, downy-leaved feather grass, Zalessky feather grass, moccasin flower, ladies'-slipper, neottianthe cucullata, Baltic orchis, fen orchis, helmeted orchis, dark-winged orchis, Gelma sandwart, Krasheninnikov sandwart, Clare astragalus.

The fauna of the vertebrate animals in the Reserve includes 19 fish, 5 amphibian and 5 reptile. Among the 48 mammal species are elks, roe deer, boars, foxes, wolves, lynxes, badgers, common weasels, least weasels, forest ferrets, Siberian striped weasel, common marten, American mink. Squirrels, beavers, muskrats, hares, dibblers, moles, hedgehogs, voles are quite common, as well as chiropterans: pond bat, water bat, Brandt's bat, whiskered bat, northern bat, long-eared bat, parti-coloured bat, Nathusius' pipistrelle. The 174 bird bird species include white-tailed eagles, honey hawks, boreal owls, gnome owls, hawk owls, tawny owls, common scoters, cuckoos, wookcocks, common grouses, wood grouses, hazel grouses, common partridges, shrikes, goldenmountain thrushes, black- throated loons and others.

Activities and Places in the Ural Mountains

The Urals possess beautiful natural scenery that can be accessed from Yekaterinburg with a rent-a-car, hired taxi and tour. Travel agencies arrange rafting, kayaking and hiking trips. Hikes are available in the taiga forest and the Urals. Trips often include walks through the taiga to small lakes and hikes into the mountains and excursions to collect mushrooms and berries and climb in underground caves. Mellow rafting is offered in a relatively calm six kilometer section of the River Serga. In the winter visitor can enjoy cross-mountains skiing, downhill skiing, ice fishing, dog sledding, snow-shoeing and winter hiking through the forest to a cave covered with ice crystals.

Lake Shartash (10 kilometers from Yekaterinburg) is where the first Ural gold was found, setting in motion the Yekaterinburg gold rush of 1745, which created so much wealth one rich baron of that time hosted a wedding party that lasted a year. The area around Shartash Lake is a favorite picnic and barbecue spot of the locals. Getting There: by bus route No. 50, 054 or 54, with a transfer to suburban commuter bus route No. 112, 120 or 121 (the whole trip takes about an hour), or by car (10 kilometers drive from the city center, 40 minutes).

Revun Rapids (90 kilometers road from Yekaterinburg near Beklenishcheva village) is a popular white water rafting places On the nearby cliffs you can see the remains of a mysterious petroglyph from the Paleolithic period. Along the steep banks, you may notice the dark entrance of Smolinskaya Cave. There are legends of a sorceress who lived in there. The rocks at the riverside are suited for competitive rock climbers and beginners. Climbing hooks and rings are hammered into rocks. The most fun rafting is generally in May and June.

Olenii Ruchii National Park (100 kilometers west of Yekaterinburg) is the most popular nature park in Sverdlovsk Oblast and popular weekend getaway for Yekaterinburg residents. Visitors are attracted by the beautiful forests, the crystal clear Serga River and picturesque rocks caves. There are some easy hiking routes: the six-kilometer Lesser Ring and the 15-kilometer Greater Ring. Another route extends for 18 km and passes by the Mitkinsky Mine, which operated in the 18th-19th centuries. It's a kind of an open-air museum — you can still view mining an enrichment equipment here. There is also a genuine beaver dam nearby.

Among the other attractions at Olenii Ruchii are Druzhba (Friendship) Cave, with passages that extend for about 500 meters; Dyrovaty Kamen (Holed Stone), created over time by water of Serga River eroding rock; and Utoplennik (Drowned Man), where you can see “The Angel of Sole Hope”., created by the Swedish artist Lehna Edwall, who has placed seven angels figures in different parts of the world to “embrace the planet, protecting it from fear, despair, and disasters.”

Image Sources: Wikimedia Commons

Text Sources: Federal Agency for Tourism of the Russian Federation (official Russia tourism website russiatourism.ru ), Russian government websites, UNESCO, Wikipedia, Lonely Planet guides, New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, National Geographic, The New Yorker, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press, AFP, Yomiuri Shimbun and various books and other publications.

Updated in September 2020

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