Under $100: Reykjavik, Iceland

The Icelandic capital is known to be an expensive destination, but you can still see the best of the sights on a limited budget.

Fill your boots with breakfast at Bergsson Mathus, which serves up simple rolls or bigger breakfasts. Be warned even the cheapest items sell for around $9.

Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral © Pavel Trubnikov | Dreamstime

Take a wander down to the iconic Harpa, a concert hall opened in 2011. It regularly plays host to top performers from around the world, and dominates the port area. It’s free to visit and also acts as a good reference point as you navigate around the city.

Walk through the center of town to visit the Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral. The 73-meter high tower looms over town, and the architecture is truly striking. When you get hungry, go for lunch at The Laundromat Café. Diners eat surrounded by a collection of around 6,000 books, tucking into sandwiches, burgers and brunch items that won’t hit your budget too hard ($18).

Blue Lagoon © Steve Allen | Dreamstime

In the afternoon, head to one of the many geothermal pools in and around Reykjavik, to see why Iceland is so famous for its healing waters. The best, and closest to the center of town, include Laugardalslaug, Sundhöllin and Vesturbæjarlaug. Each cost around $5 entry.

For dinner, head to Dill, known as the best restaurant in Reykjavik. It’s pricey but worth every penny to sample some of the best contemporary Nordic food in the world ($50). Afterwards, go for beers at Kaffibarinn, an alternative spot that usually has live music on ($9 per beer).