Final answer:
The capital city near Hot Springs and Thingvellir is Reykjavik, Iceland. It is culturally significant and a gateway to Iceland's geothermal attractions and historical sites.
Step-by-step explanation:
The capital city that is a day trip away from hot springs and Þingvellir (Thingvellir), the past home of the parliament, is Reykjavik, Iceland. Reykjavik is well known for being near some of Iceland's most famous natural attractions, including hot springs and the historical site of Thingvellir National Park. Thingvellir is a significant site in Icelandic history as it was the location of Iceland's first parliament, known as the Althing, one of the oldest extant parliamentary institutions in the world. Reykjavik serves as a central hub for those looking to explore Iceland's rich cultural heritage and its unique geothermal landscapes.
Northern Europe, consisting of the Nordic countries such as Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, shares a common Viking heritage and cultural identity. These countries have not only integrated themselves globally but also maintained their unique traditions and customs. With English taught as a second language in elementary schools, they foster international communication while preserving their languages and cultures.