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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

26 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik Worth The Effort

July 30, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers

Looking for the best day trips from Reykjavik ? Look no further! This guide has every day trip from Reykjavik that is worth your time. If you have already done all of the best things to do in Reykjavik , this is what you are going to want to be looking for! 

Planning your trip to Reykjavik last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Reykjavik!

Top Experiences And Tours In Reykjavik:

• Golden Circle Full-Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely To Sell Out!)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Go with a local guide)
• Whale Watching & Marine Life Cruise (Often sells out!)
• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer  (Skip the line!)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip   (Our pick!)

Top Hotels In Reykjavik:

• 201 Hotel (Highly rated!)
• Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel (Includes a kitchen)
• Center Hotels Plaza (Central location in Old Town)
• R13-A Townhouse Hotel (Great for families!)

As the capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik is usually where visitors to this island set up their home base. Luckily, there are tons of amazing day trips from Reykjavik within just a couple of hours of driving. Don’t forget to check out Where To Stay In Reykjavik if you plan on making it your home base!

You can explore breathtaking glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and national parks without having to venture too far or book multiple accommodations.

Because public transportation in Iceland doesn’t extend very far, you’ll need to either take tours that include transportation or rent a car in Iceland. Be aware that driving in Iceland can be a little bit of a tricky task at times, so be sure to know what mistakes to avoid while driving in Iceland .

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

Best 9 Reykjavik Day Trips Within 1 Hour

Blue lagoon.

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular destinations in Iceland. This hot spring was actually created by accident in 1976 by the Svartsengi Power Plant next door. The water is heated by natural geothermal activity and stays around 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

The unique, milky hue is a result of a mixture of algae, silica, and minerals. As a matter of fact, the water is actually chalky white in color, but, somehow, the sun makes it look blue.

This stop is in a great area and is actually on our list of Best Places To Stay In Iceland . In this post, we offer suggestions for where to stay around the Ring Road!

If you plan on visiting the Blue Lagoon, be sure to pre-book your entry into this amazing attraction! It’ll save you a lot of time and effort. To get to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik, you’ll either have to drive about 45 minutes or take a tour that includes transportation.

Book Here: Blue Lagoon Entry Day Trip From Reykjavik

Valahnukamol

To get to Valahnukamol from Reykjavik, you’ll have to drive for about an hour southeast to the coast. Here, you will find awesome, jagged rock formations sticking out of the wild sea like monster teeth.

If you like unique coastal views or are looking for an amazing and eerie photography background, this is the place for you! Valahnukamol remains one of Iceland’s hidden gems even though it is so close to Reykjavik and even closer to the Keflavik International Airport.

Valahnukamol is not too far past the Blue Lagoon, so it is possible to combine these day trips into one and visit them on the same day to save time. You can also visit the nearby Reykjanes Lighthouse or the Gunnuhver hot spring.

This is one of the best stops around Iceland’s Ring Road . If you happen to be driving in Iceland , you will want to ensure that you make time to see it! 

Reykjadalur Hot Springs

Reykjadalur Hot Springs is one of the best day trips from Reykjavik and is just under an hour’s drive. It combines an active hike through Iceland’s beautiful nature and time for relaxation in one of the country’s best hot springs .

Unlike other hot springs in Iceland that look like a pool, Reykjadalur Hot Springs are completely natural and are just small flowing rivers! The perks of this hot spring don’t end there. You may also catch a glimpse of roaming herds of sheep or even a few of those famous Icelandic horses. 

It would be helpful at times to have a tour guide on your trip to this relaxing location, as there are certain things you should know before visiting these Reykjadalur Hot Springs.

For example, there are certain pools that aren’t suitable for bathing, and the best pools to bathe in vary depending on what time of year you visit. It is one of the best places to see on your Iceland Itinerary!

Book Here: Reykjadalur Hot Springs Hike From Reykjavik

Thingvellir National Park

To get to Thingvellir National Park from Reykjavik, it takes about 45 minutes by car. This relatively short journey is worth it for the amazing views you will be granted in this park. As far as the eye can see, you will find roaring rivers, cascading waterfalls, and rugged, alien landscapes. During winter, the area is transformed into a snowy wasteland where the Northern Lights can be viewed.

It is clear why Thingvellir National Park is one of the best day trips from Reykjavik as well as being one of the most popular destinations in Iceland in general.

The park draws people in who want to hike the twisting trails, photograph unique landscapes, fish for trout, go horseback riding, or enjoy any of the other outdoor activities popular here. Thingvellir National Park is also part of the Golden Circle and is usually the first stop on this Iceland road trip .

Book Here: Golden Circle Day Tour From Reykjavik (Including Thingvellir National Park)

Silfra Snorkeling

Snorkeling might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Iceland, but it is one of the noteworthy activities you can do in Thingvellir National Park. This location is one of the most popular places to go snorkeling in the entire world and with good reason.

At the Silfra rift, you can swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and even touch both at the same time! The outstandingly clear, vibrant blue water paired with the prehistoric-looking geology will make for a dreamy and breath-taking swim.

You cannot dive here without a guide, so book a tour in order to get the proper training and equipment before enjoying this beautiful water and having a once in a lifetime experience!

Book Here: Silfra Snorkeling Tour

Game Of Thrones Tour

Iceland has a landscape that easily could have been pulled from the pages of a fantasy novel. Because of this, it is no wonder those in charge of location scouting for the Game of Thrones TV show choose to film in so many places on the island.

As you travel around the country, you are guaranteed to see at least some sights that you might have seen on screen. If you are a huge fan of the show, consider taking a tour dedicated to Game of Thrones . You can do your own self-guided tour or if you want to avoid the research and stress, book a tour with a knowledgeable guide.

Book Here: Game Of Thrones Tour

Kerid Crater

Kerid Crater is just under an hour from Reykjavik and is really a must-visit location for anyone searching out the best landscapes in Iceland. This 170-meter wide crater lake is created by the top of a volcano in Iceland’s typical fashion of making everything just a bit more epic. The bright blue-green color of the lake’s water pops in colorful contrast against the red volcanic rock and green moss that creates the rim of land around the water.

There is a very small fee to visit the area, but you won’t mind handing over the few dollars in order to stand in awe along the Kerid Crater’s rim. This location is part of the Golden Circle and can be visited as part of a Golded Circle tour if you don’t drive yourself.

Book Here: Golden Circle Day Tour From Reykjavik (Including Kerid Crater)

Whale Watching

Iceland is one of the best places for whale watching and you can book a tour right out of Reykjavik, so you do not need to travel far for this day trip. The ocean off the coast of Iceland is the perfect feeding ground for whales and draws in many species.

You can embark on a whale watching tour throughout the year, but the season does determine the number of whales and species you are likely to see. Consider going in the summer months to increase your chances of witnessing whales breaking the surface as well as for fairer weather and calmer seas.

While out on your boat, you can look forward to seeing minke whales, the most common in the area, as well as humpbacks and possibly a sperm whale. Along with whales, you might be able to spot orcas, harbor porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, and a number of sea birds.

Book Here: Whale Watching Tour From Reykjavik

Raufarholshellir

The Raufarholshellir lava cave will leave you gasping from its beauty. Whether geology is your passion or you just love drop-dead gorgeous sights, this is a day trip from Reykjavik you need to take! With only a 40-minute drive to get to the cave, there is no excuse to not take a tour of this natural wonder.

The cave was formed over 5,000 years ago and is the fourth largest lava cave in Iceland at just under a mile long and ceilings that reach 10 meters. The tunnel is full of amazing pink and purple magma-formed walls and even giant ice crystals during certain times. Book a tour to get a guide and the proper safety equipment to explore the cave.

Book Here: Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel Day Trip From Reykjavik

Best 7 Reykjavik Day Trips Under 2 Hours

Strokkur and geysir.

To get to Strokkur and Geysir from Reykjavik, you will have to drive for about an hour and forty minutes. If that drive is too long for your liking, you can also take a tour that includes transportation. However you get there, you will find a geyser ready to blast!

The Great Geysir is known as the first geyser described in modern literature and is where the name for geysers originated. The word comes from the Icelandic “geysa”, meaning “to gush.” While this old geyser almost never erupts anymore, it is still an interesting site due to its history.

A short walk from Geysir is Strokkur, which will not disappoint. This is the most active geyser in Iceland and will explode up to 20 feet into the sky every 4 to 10 minutes. Make this day trip from Reykjavik in order to watch this amazing natural wonder put on a show.

Book Here: Golden Circle Day Trip From Reykjavik (Including Strokkur and Geysir)

Gull foss Falls

Gullfoss Falls is not far from Strokkur and Geysir, so it is possible to visit all three in the same day. This magnificent waterfall is found on the Hvita River and is one of the best waterfalls in Iceland .

With a name that translates to “Golden Falls,” it is perfect that it is found on the Golden Circle route. Unlike many Iceland waterfalls, you will be able to view Gullfoss from the cliffs above it and watch as it cascades 105 feet down and over two tiers into a gorge.

With trails around it and multiple viewpoints, you will be able to see the 575-feet wide falls from many angles. You simply have to take the time to visit Gullfoss if you want to see the might of nature in Iceland and snap some amazing photographs.

Book Here: Golden Circle Day Tour From Reykjavik (Including Gullfoss Waterfall)

Hrunalaug Hot Spring

Hrunalaug Hot Spring is one of the hidden gems in Iceland as well as one of the best hot springs in the country, making it the perfect hot spring if you want to avoid huge crowds and find time for yourself to relax.

The spring is about an hour and a half from Reykjavik and after the long drive, you can look forward to laying back in the hot water with views of the rolling hills that surround it.

The pool is small, which is perfect for couples who want to soak together in an intimate setting and feel as if they are the only people in the world. A small donation for upkeep is appreciated but do your part as well by cleaning up after yourself.

Secret Lagoon Hot Spring

This hot spring is located just around the corner from Hrunalaug Hot Spring and despite the word secret being in its name, this spring is larger and more well known. It is also the oldest hot spring in Iceland and dates back to 1891. Unlike many of Iceland’s other hot springs, this one is big enough to swim in and offers modern facilities.

A couple of restaurants can be found right next door and there is a small geyser nearby as well. If you are really craving a spa day, you can easily visit both the Secret Lagoon and Hrunalaug on the same day. The entrance fee to the Secret Lagoon is $25.

Book Here: Secret Lagoon Tour From Reykjavik

Glymur Waterfall

Glymur Waterfall is just over an hour north of Reykjavik and is found in one of Iceland’s stunning canyons, Glymur Canyon. Make sure you wear your hiking boots because this area is a hiker’s dream. From the nearby parking lot, you will have a good four-hour round trip hike to conquer to get the best views of the 198-meter waterfall.

Beware that this is not a super easy hike, so go into it prepared. Not only is it lengthy, but you will also be required to wade through a river, climb through a cave, and walk along dangerous, mountain paths.

Sign markers will keep you from getting lost as you make your way along the unpaved trail. Once you reach the climax of the hike, you will be rewarded with gorgeous views, so do not hesitate to embark on this thrilling hike.

Book Here: Glymur Mountain Hike Day Trip From Reykjavik

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

It will take you about an hour and forty-five minutes from Reykjavik to reach Seljalandsfoss, one of the most iconic and swoon-worthy waterfalls in Iceland . The waterfall is found just off of the Ring Road in the south of Iceland and is hard to miss since it can be spotted from the road. This nearly 200-foot waterfall is a mighty force to be reckoned with and will leave you in awe.

The water tumbles over the cliffside in a way that allows you to walk behind the powerful stream for spectacular views. If you are traveling in the summer, you will find the land around the falls lush with greenery and blooming flowers.

Do not be surprised to find many tourists at Seljalandsfoss when you visit, but do not let that turn you off, because this waterfall should be at the top of your list of places to see in Iceland.

Book Here: South Of Iceland Day Trip From Reykjavik (Including Seljalandsfoss Waterfall)

Best 7 Reykjavik Day Trips Over 2 Hours

Iceland south coast.

South Iceland has a great collection of beautiful sights close together, making it one of the most perfect day trips from Reykjavik if you want to see multiple things in one day.

Many of the locations can be found not far from Route 1, or the Ring Road, so finding them is not hard. If you drive as far as Vik, it will be about a 5-hour round trip of just driving, not including the time taken to see each place. Because of this, try leaving Reykjavik early in the morning and timing yourself appropriately.

Along the coast, you will find a multitude of waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfos and Skogafoss. Once you reach Vik, you will be greeted by a cute village adorned with a pretty church. Near Vik, you can find the Reynisfjara black sand beach and the picturesque Dyrholaey peninsula. There are also many hid den gems in the area if you have time to search them out.

Book Here: South Of Iceland Day Trip From Reykjavik

Thorsmork , or Thor’s Valley, named for the Norse god of thunder, is a two and a half-hour drive from Reykjavik, but because the route there passes by many other popular stops, you can knock off multiple locations on your way.

The entrance to the nature reserve is near the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. If you are driving yourself, make sure to rent a 4×4 vehicle suitable for the f-roads, and you may want to read up on some tips for driving in Iceland . The best way to get around Thorsmork is to book a tour with a guide driving a super jeep, which will ensure you get through the rivers and offroad trails that crisscross the area.

If you want to enjoy your time at Thorsmork on foot, you can leave your car at the entrance to the valley and hike from there. One of the best trails in the area is the Valahnukur Hike.

This trek will take you about two hours to complete and will give you amazing views of the mountains sprawling in every direction. In the end, you will not regret embarking on this day tour from Reykjavik.

Book Here: Thorsmork Hike And Super Jeep Tour From Reykjavik

Haifoss Waterfall

Yet another amazing waterfall in Iceland is Haifoss, a more secluded waterfall that crashes into a gorge in the Fossardalur valley. Haifoss is just over two hours from Reykjavik and is well worth the drive. If you drive yourself, you will need a 4×4 vehicle. The falls can easily be included in a four day Iceland itinerary as well if you are interested in doing more than a Reykjavik day trip.

At 400 feet, Haifoss is Iceland’s third-largest waterfall. Nearby is another smaller waterfall named Granni, which appropriately translates to “neighbor.” As you hike along the top of the gorge, you will have great viewpoints of both waterfalls at the same time.

From this location, you can also spot the “Gates of Hell” volcano Hekla. These waterfalls could be called Iceland off the beaten path as most tourists do not go out of their way to visit. Because of this, you can expect to find time for yourself with nature.

Book Here: Landmannalaugar Super-Jeep Tour From Reykjavik

Westman Islands

The Westman Islands are another hidden gem in Iceland. Though they are only just under a three-hour journey from Reykjavik, including a ferry ride, most tourists do not know or care to visit. Like the rest of Iceland, these small islands are full of rugged, jaw-dropping landscapes and wildlife. The largest island is Heimaey, which is home to a population of about 4,300 locals.

The other islands are significantly smaller and are mostly uninhabited except for the occasional hunting cabin. While visiting the Westman Islands can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik, you might want to consider staying at least one night there in order to have time to fully explore.

Your time on the island of Heimaey will be far from boring since there are plenty of fun and adventurous activities to fill your time. In the south of the island in Storhofdi you will find one of the largest puffin colonies in Iceland with close to 700,000 birds nesting there in the summer.

You can also hike a few different trails, including the Eldfell volcano crater. Also, make sure to check out the pretty Heimaey Stave Chuch, the only completely black church in Iceland.

Skogafoss Waterfall

Skogafoss is yet another really iconic waterfall in Iceland and at just over two hours from Reykjavik, it makes for a perfect day trip along the Ring Road. It is also not far from Thorsmork and Seljalandsfoss, so all three could be checked off your list on the same day. These locations could be part of your Iceland South Coast day trip.

Skogafoss is a mighty waterfall that will leave you breathless. The falls cascade straight down for 60 meters and the curtain of water is 25 meters across.

With so much mist generated by the falls, a rainbow is often formed if the light is right and can be photographed shooting out of the water for a magical memory. The position of this waterfall allows you to walk right up to it, but be prepared to get very, very wet! You can also hike to the top of the falls for a more unique angle.

Book Here: South Coast and Northern Lights Tour (Including Skogafoss Waterfall)

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

To get to Snaefellsnes Peninsula , you will have to drive two hours, but with so many of Iceland’s top destinations, you cannot ignore this day trip from Reykjavik. This beautiful peninsula is north of Reykjavik and juts 55 miles into the ocean.

If you are able to stay in the area for more than a day you can really explore in-depth and spend more time at each location. But, if you do only have a day, try to prioritize what you want to see the most.

On the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, you will discover the Kirkjufell mountain and the Kirkjufellafoss waterfall nearby. These two landscape features combine to create the classic postcard photo of Iceland and are an extremely popular shot for photographers. Kirkjufell translates to “Church Mountain” because of its shape and is just over 1,500 feet tall.

At the tip of the peninsula, there is the Snaefellsjokull National Park, where you can hike a glacier-topped mountain, explore the Vatnshellir Lava Cave, or walk along rugged beaches.

The peninsula is also home to several cute fishing villages, churches, and lighthouses to check out. No matter your interests, there is a ton of fun and epic activities to do on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula!

Book Here: Snaefellsnes Peninsula Day Trip From Reykjavik

Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

With help from social media, the Solheimasandur plane wreck has become a hotspot for tourists, and it is no wonder why! This haunted-looking, skeleton of an airplane is so photogenic you will be drawn to it like a moth to a flame.

Unfortunately, you will not be the only person drawn to it, and you should not expect to have the site to yourself, especially in peak season. Either way, the plane is worth a look at and make sure to snap a photo while you are there, even if you have to edit out the other onlookers. Make sure to enjoy the sight of the plane from the ground since climbing on it is not allowed.

To find the plane wreck, drive on the Ring Road towards Vik for just over two hours, until you reach Solheimasandur Beach. From there, you will have to walk about two and a half miles to the site. Alternatively, you can book an ATV tour that will get you there faster and without tiring your feet.

Book Here: South Iceland ATV Adventure (Including Solheimasandur Plane Crash )

3 Optional Longer Reykjavik Day Trips

Langjokull glacier.

Visiting the Langjokull Glacier is one glacier tour in Iceland you should consider doing if you want to make a great memory! You must book a tour to get up and personal with this glacier. The tour will include the special transportation and equipment you will need.

There are manmade tunnels carved into the snow and ice of Langjokull that will allow you to descend directly into the glacier, which is not something you get to do every day! You will love exploring the twisting tunnels and their stark blue coloration.

You will want to take plenty of pictures to document your journey or your friends and family back home might not believe you did this crazy, awesome tour!

Book Here:  From Reykjavik: Langj0kull Glacier Ice Cave Tour

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Getting to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon requires a bit of a drive – five hours to be exact! It might be best to book a tour out of Reykjavik if you are not up to driving so far.

However you decide to get there, you will find the long car ride totally worth it! Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is one of the most visited locations in Iceland, and as soon as you step foot on the beach, you will understand why.

This gorgeous lagoon is full of drifting icebergs and the beach will often have glassy ice waiting to be photographed. Of course, the amount of ice depends on the season you visit, but there will always be something to look forward to when you come here.

If you want, you can take a boat tour out onto the lagoon to get even closer to the cracking icebergs. If you come in the winter, you might glimpse seals on the ice or the Northern Lights dancing in the sky.

Book Here: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Day Trip From Reykjavik

Vatnajokull Ice Caves

Want your breath taken away? Then, visit the Vatnajokull Ice Caves! This is another fascinating Iceland glacier to visit if you love chilling in nature, and it is the largest glacier in Europe so you will want to say you’ve been there.

The only downside to visiting Vatnajokull is the five-hour drive to get there making it one of the longer day trip options. You will have to book a tour for the ice caves to go inside safely, but most likely, the tour will not include transportation from Reykjavik. Even so, this is clearly one of the best Reykjavik day trips worth the effort!

The ice caves here are a natural wonder you can’t find in most places, and you will not want to pass it up. In any of the many caves at Vatnajokull, you will be able to immerse yourself in a frozen, jewel-like world. These caves can only be accessed during the winter, so do not add them to your itinerary if you are in Iceland in the summer.

Book Here: Ice Cave Tour

Whether you are only in Iceland for a long layover or like the idea of keeping things simple with a home base in Reykjavik, there are plenty of day trips you can take from the Iceland capital.

Book a few of the many day tours from Reykjavik for an easy, stress-free time or rent a car to get to these amazing sights. If you love nature, adventure, or relaxing, there are a handful of day trips from Reykjavik perfect for you!

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Day Tours in Iceland

Guided adventure trips & excursions in iceland.

We have an excellent selection of full or half day tours departing from Reykjavík, and many other locations around the country. These great value day tours and outdoor Iceland activities are designed to discover the best attractions around the country.

ABOUT ICELAND EXCURSIONS & DAY TOURS

We offer tours of varying lengths and difficulty , suitable for different ages. Whatever you have in mind for your time in Iceland, we will have the perfect tour for you. If you have any questions about our activities, please do not hesitate to contact us. Check out our tour selection to see more about duration and pick-up possibilities.

Can’t find what you're looking for? Customize your very own private tour with us to experience Iceland your own way.

We also offer meet-on-location and self-drive tour packages.

WHICH ACTIVITY OR EXCURSION IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Looking for a stress-free way to explore Iceland's stunning landscapes and cultural treasures? Our day tours are the perfect solution! With efficient itineraries designed to make the most of your limited time, you can choose from a wide variety of excursions, from quick half-day tours to full-day iconic sightseeing and exciting activities like snorkeling or glacier hiking. 

Our knowledgeable guides will enhance your overall experience, providing context, stories, and insider tips.

Departures are available from various towns, including Reykjavik and Akureyri.

Staying in the capital? If you're craving a taste of the extraordinary in a short time, explore our excursions from Reykjavik .

Interested in iconic sights? Take on our classic Golden Circle Tours , featuring mesmerizing landscapes and rich cultural stops.

Craving a mix of experiences? Opt for our versatile Combo Tours , blending different aspects of Iceland's beauty in one seamless journey

Want a more active adventure? Browse our range of popular activities in Iceland , including thrilling glacier hikes, snowmobiling, and more. 

Have a free afternoon? If you're looking for unique experiences as the day unfolds, explore our Afternoon Tours .

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DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVIK

REYKJAVIK: GATEWAY TO INCREDIBLE NATURE & ADVENTURE

FOR SCENIC VIEWS, THE ELUSIVE NORTHERN LIGHTS AND UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE - ICELAND HAS IT ALL!

View all day tours from Reykjavik

See & Experience the most famous Icelandic sights!

Tour the Golden Circle in all its glory and see the Strokkur hot spring erupt at the original Geysir. Stand next to Gullfoss waterfall, the roaring queen of Icelandic Waterfalls and walk in the footsteps of the Vikings in Þingvellir National Park.

Explore the South Coast with its endless black beaches, towering volcanoes and rugged glaciers. Walk behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and hike up to the incredible Skógar Waterfall. Strap on crampons and step onto the glacier ice of Sólheimajökull with an expert guide.

Find these and other great tours in our selection of guided day tours from Reykjavík. Selected tours offer seats with a touch screen tablet complete with our unique "In Bus Audio Guide", and a USB charger.

GOLDEN CIRCLE & SKY LAGOON (Admission incl.)

Visit Iceland´s newest geothermal wonder after experiencing the Golden Circle.

ISK 26,790 10,5 Hours

SOUTH COAST, DIAMOND BEACH & JOKULSARLON TOUR

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of the most amazing natural wonders of Iceland. Experience a day full of glaciers, icebergs and waterfalls at Iceland´s jewel.

ISK 26,990 14 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE AND BLUE LAGOON (admission incl.)

Enjoy a relaxing visit to the Blue lagoon after seeing some of Iceland’s most famous sights.

ISK 31,290 13 Hours

South Coast, Diamond Beach & Glacier Lagoon

Guided tour of the Icelandic south coast, with stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, and at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

ISK 28,880 14 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE CLASSIC

Visit Iceland´s most popular natural attractions including Geysir Hot Springs, Gullfoss Waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, expertly guided in 10 different languages!

ISK 11,990 7,5 Hours

SOUTH COAST CLASSIC

Experience the wonderful volcanic southern coastline of Iceland with its thundering waterfalls, endless black sand beaches and glacier coated volcanoes, available in 10 different languages!

ISK 15,990 10,5 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE AND GLACIER

Explore the Golden Circle and then drive a snowmobile on the second biggest glacier in Iceland.

ISK 35,990 11,5 Hours

SOUTH COAST AND GLACIER TOUR

Hike on a rugged glacier and explore the amazing cracks in the ice, visit two stunning and iconic waterfalls as well as Reynisfjara black sand beach.

ISK 25,000 11 Hours

NORTHERN LIGHTS AND STARGAZING

Guided in 10 languages. Search for the rare and elusive northern lights (Aurora Borealis) in the skies around Reykjavík on this all time winter bestseller!

ISK 8,990 3 Hours

THE BLUE LAGOON & NORTHERN LIGHTS (Admission incl.)

Enjoy a relaxing visit to the Blue lagoon and then head out into the night to search for Northern Lights.

ISK 29,590 10 Hours

OUR MOST POPULAR DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVIK!

kr 35,990 11,5 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE AND HORSES

On this tour you will explore the world famous Golden Circle & get to know the unique Icelandic horse.

kr 23,990 11 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE AND NORTHERN LIGHTS

Iceland's most popular natural wonders in one day. Find the dancing northern lights after a joyful Golden Circle tour.

kr 18,990 10,5 Hours

SOUTH COAST AND NORTHERN LIGHTS

Follow the North Atlantic coastline from Reykjavík into the south coast wonderland and become a Northern Light Hunter.

kr 22,990 13 Hours

Iceland Day Tours: Explore the Wonders of Reykjavik and Beyond

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Iceland? Look no further than our selection of Iceland day tours! From the famous Golden Circle to the breathtaking South Coast, we offer a range of guided tours that will take you to the most iconic sights and natural wonders in and around Reykjavik. With our state-of-the-art amenities, including in-bus audio guides and USB chargers, we ensure that your journey is not only informative but also convenient and comfortable.

The Golden Circle: A Journey Through Iceland's Natural Marvels

The Golden Circle is a must-visit destination for every traveler in Iceland. This 300-kilometer route takes you to three incredible attractions: the Geysir geothermal area, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the Þingvellir National Park.

Geysir Geothermal Area: Witness Nature's Fury

At the Geysir geothermal area, you'll have the opportunity to see the Strokkur hot spring in action. This impressive natural wonder erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water high up into the air. The sight of this powerful display of nature's forces is truly awe-inspiring.

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Roaring Queen of Icelandic Waterfalls

Prepare to be amazed by the sheer power and beauty of the Gullfoss waterfall. As one of Iceland's most iconic landmarks, it cascades down in two stages, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Stand next to the edge of the waterfall and feel the mist on your face as you admire its majestic grandeur.

Þingvellir National Park: Where History and Nature Converge

Step into the footsteps of the Vikings as you explore Þingvellir National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only a place of historical significance but also a natural wonder. Marvel at the dramatic landscapes, walk through the Almannagjá fissure, and learn about the historic events that took place here.

The South Coast: A Scenic Journey of Black Beaches, Volcanoes, and Glaciers

If you're craving for more natural beauty, our South Coast day tours will take you on a breathtaking journey. From black sand beaches to towering volcanoes and rugged glaciers, this region is a paradise for nature lovers.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: Walk Behind the Cascades

Prepare to get up close and personal with nature at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Unlike many other waterfalls, you can actually walk behind the cascades and experience the thundering water from a unique perspective. Don't forget to bring your raincoat, as you might get wet from the mist!

Skógar Waterfall: A Picture-Perfect Setting

Another majestic waterfall awaits you at Skógar. With its 60-meter drop and stunning surroundings, it's no wonder that this waterfall is a favorite among photographers. Capture the beauty of the cascades and the lush greenery that surrounds it.

Sólheimajökull Glacier: Step onto the Ice

For the ultimate adventure, strap on crampons and join our expert guides as you step onto the glacier ice of Sólheimajökull. Learn about the fascinating formations and features of glaciers while marveling at the icy landscapes. This is an experience like no other.

Discover More with Our Guided Day Tours from Reykjavik

In addition to the Golden Circle and the South Coast, we offer a variety of other guided day tours from Reykjavik that allow you to explore even more of Iceland's wonders. Whether you want to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, visit the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, or immerse yourself in the mystical world of the Northern Lights, we have the perfect tour for you.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula: A Land of Magic and Mystery

Embark on a journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as "Iceland in Miniature." This region is known for its diverse landscapes, including dramatic coastlines, lava fields, and the iconic Snæfellsjökull volcano. Explore charming fishing villages, visit the famous Kirkjufell mountain, and feel the magic of this enchanting place.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A Frozen Wonderland

Witness the stunning beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs float peacefully in the crystal-clear water. Take a boat tour and get up close to the majestic ice formations or simply sit on the shore and listen to the sounds of cracking ice. This is a truly magical experience that will leave you in awe.

Northern Lights: Chase the Aurora Borealis

If you're lucky enough to visit Iceland during the winter months, don't miss the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Join our expert guides as they take you to the best spots to see this natural phenomenon. Dance with the colorful lights in the sky and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Ultimate Convenience: In-Bus Audio Guides and USB Chargers

To enhance your experience during our day tours, we offer in-bus audio guides and USB chargers. With our touch screen tablets, you can learn about the history, geology, and culture of each destination at your own pace. Stay connected with our USB chargers and never worry about running out of battery on your devices.

Book Your Iceland Day Tour Today

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the wonders of Iceland with our guided day tours from Reykjavik. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, we have the perfect tour for you. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and the thrill of discovery. Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with us and create memories that will last forever.

9 Sensational Self-Drive Day Trips From Reykjavík

• Post last modified: January 19, 2024
• Post category: Day trips / Iceland

Iceland is a beautiful place to explore! And road trips in Iceland are the best way to explore all that Iceland has to offer. Sure the Ring Road is the pinnacle of Iceland road trips, but not everyone has the time or energy to drive around all of Iceland staying in a different hotel each night. So if a long road trip is not your style, we’ve put together some of the best day trips from Reykjavík. This way, you can stay in Reykjavík each night and explore some of the best destinations in southern Iceland by day.  

Stuff In This Post

Why Take A Day Trip From Reykjavík?

Taking day trips from Reykjavík is also a great way to explore Iceland in the winter. However, roads in Iceland frequently close in the winter due to hazardous conditions. So staying in Reykjavík gives you the greatest access to safe and open roads.  

Also, basing yourself in Reykjavík and taking day trips is the best option for exploring Iceland if you only have a few days. Iceland has done an excellent job creating a tourist hub via the extended layover. So if you want to stop over for a few days on a transatlantic flight, these day trips from Reykjavík will be your gateway to Iceland.

However, if you choose to base yourself in town and take day trips from Reykjavík each day, these will be long days. You’ll spend a good chunk of time driving each day. But the inconvenience of extra drive time each day maybe outweighed for you by the connivence of staying in the same place each night.  

While we love the self-driving option, all of these days trips from Reykjavík can be booked as part of a tour. There are so many tours that leave from Reykjavík and go to all of these destinations. Additionally, if you’re visiting in the winter, you may want to go with guided tours simply to avoid driving in winter weather.

As you’re planning your Iceland vacation , remember that while Reykjavík is the capital city and we think you should definitely spend a day or two there , there isn’t much to to. The best thing to do is take one of these day trips from Reykjavík!

By buying from the links below, we'll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full Terms and Conditions here.

Golden Circle Road Trip

This is by far the most popular day trip from Reykjavík! A journey around the Golden Circle route will take you to Thingvellir (more on that below), Gullfoss waterfall (a massive waterfall), and a geothermal area complete with a regularly erupting geyser. Since the Golden Circle is such a popular tourist route, you’ll also find plenty of farm to table restaurants and geothermal soaking areas on the route.  

Want to see the full Golden Circle road trip? Check out our post here.

Highlights of the golden circle:.

• Geyser Geothermal area

Reykjadalur Hot Springs Hike

If you want to spend a beautiful day hiking through the valley, surrounded by rolling Icelandic hills and then bathing in this picturesque place, Reykjadalur Hot Springs is the place. This is our favorite hot springs in Iceland and is well worth the 2.5 hours of hiking you’ll have to do to visit it.

Interested in visiting the Silfra Fissure? Check out our post here for what to expect.

Highlights of reykjadalur hot springs:.

• Hot springs for viewing
• Hot springs for bathing
• Beautiful hiking

Thingvellir National Park and the Silfra Fissure

If you don’t have time for a full day trip around the Golden Circle, consider just visiting Thingvellir National Park. Thingvellir National Park is the first National Park created in Iceland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

A few unique things make this park a great place to visit. First, it is the site of the first Icelandic parliament. Plaques along a boardwalk will take you on a self guided tour of these important sites. Second, Thingvellir is the site where you can actually see the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates separating. So you can see the river and cliffs created from this tectonic action. You can even snorkel in between the two plates. The Silfra Fissure snorkeling or scuba diving tours leave from Reykjavík or you can save money and meet the tour at Thingvellir ( by booking from our link, we’ll earn a commission at no extra cost to you ). Lastly, Thingvellir is home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, Öxaráfoss.

Highlights of Thingvellir:

• Öxaráfoss (waterfall)
• Silfra Fissure (tectonic plates meeting up in a river)
• Ancient Parliament (old rocks)

Skógafoss And The Waterfall Way Hike

Skógafoss’ Waterfall Way Hike is one of the most beautiful day hikes in southern Iceland. This easy half day hike is located a few hours from Reykjavík and it makes for a perfect day trip. This day trip is for the more adventurous and is one of the less popular areas to visit. (Probably because of the hiking you have to do;) )

However, for those willing to go on this relatively easy hike, you’ll be rewarded with waterfall after waterfall. About two dozen of them if you complete the whole hike!

Read all about what to expect on the Skógafoss Hike in our post here.

Highlights of skógafoss:.

• Skógafoss (waterfall)
• Beautiful Green Hills and Cliffs
• Lots of Waterfalls

Iceland’s South Coast

If you want to visit Iceland’s South Coast and see all of the top tourist destinations, you can easily do that with a full day drive complete with many jaw dropping sights. While many people may say you can drive all the way to Jökulsárlón Lagoon , we think the farthest you should drive in a day is to Vík. Driving beyond Vík is a stretch and you won’t have time to enjoy the stops.  

On the way to Vík, you’ll be able to visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss , two of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland. You’ll also be able to see the black sand beaches and basalt columns at Reynisfjara.  

For a full like of things to do on Iceland’s Southern coast, click here for our post.

Highlights of iceland’s south coast:.

• Seljalandsfoss (waterfall)
• Seljavallalaug swimming pool
• Reynisfjara Beach

Reykjanes Peninsula

The Reykjanes Peninsula one of the popular day trips from Reykjavík because it is home to the Blue Lagoon. This peninsula is located under an hour southeast of Reykjavík. You can spend a full day here with a little hiking and a little relaxing. It’s a well balanced day! The main attractions on the Reykjanes Peninsula are all geothermal in nature, from geothermal bathing pools to brand new volcanic lava fields, and a bridge between two tectonic plates, this is a great day trip for rock nerds like us.

Read all about our visit to the Blue Lagoon here.

Highlights of the reykjanes peninsula:.

• Blue Lagoon (bathing hot spring)
• Reykjadalur Hot Springs (bathing hot spring)
• Active Volcano (semi-dormant in 2022)

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Just a few hours west of Reykjavík is the beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula . This area of Iceland was made famous in Game of Thrones when Krikjufell mountain was used as a backdrop. However, there is so much more than Krikjufell to see on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. In addition to Krikjufell, you’ll find black sand and black stone beaches, towering cliffs, beautiful caverns, underground lava tubes and charming seaside villages.  

For more information on a full day trip to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, check out our post here.

Hightlights of snaefellsnes peninsula:.

• Gatklettur (hike in cavern)
• Lóndrangar roack formations (big rock on a beach)
• Vatnshellir Cave tour (inactive volcano tubes)

Glymur Waterfall

The hike to Glymur is a 7 km hike. This is a perfect half day trip from Reykjavík! It takes a bit more than an hour to get to the trail head and the hike takes 3-4 hours. This fun hike will take you over a well worn but not well maintained path into the hills to see Iceland’s second tallest waterfall.

Highlights of Glymur:

• Glymur waterfall

Barnafoss & Hraunfossar

Hraunfossar is our second favorite waterfall in all of Iceland. Because it is clearly made by a wizard. There is no river above the waterfall. Instead, the water is flowing from the underground rivers that run through the lava fields. So what you see is a waterfall coming out of a cliff. Pure Icelandic magic! A short hike up river and you can see the more traditional, yet still impressive, Barnafoss.  

Highlight of Barnafoss & Hraunfossar:

Guided tours from reykjavík.

In addition to all of the self-drive day trips from Reykjavík, there are two worth mentioning that you’ll need to do with a guide.

First, puffin and whale watching is one of the best things to do in Iceland. While we went puffin spotting in the north, you can do combo puffin/whale spotting tours outside of Reykjavík, some of which even leave from the docks in town.  

Lastly, my favorite thing we did in Iceland was hike on a glacier. While it’s not realistic to drive all the way to Vatnajökull National Park and back in a day, there are plenty of glacier tours operating out of Reykjavík. These tours typically take you to the closer Langjökull glacier, though some will drive you all the way to Vatnajökull glacier with a 14 hour tour. If we were going to choose one of these tours, we’d pick a Langjökull glacier tour that combines with a visit to Landmannalaugar, a beautiful section of the Icelandic Highlands.  

Tips for Day Trips from Reykjavík

You can take these day trips via public transport or a guided tour. However, we think that renting a car and driving yourself around is the best way to explore these destinations and explore Iceland! We rented our car at the airport and made sure to stay at a place with free parking in Reykjavík.

For more info on driving in Iceland, check out our post here.

The roads along these routes are beautiful. However, they are not populated. So make sure to stock up on snacks or picnic lunches in town. This includes packing plenty of water as water bottle refill stations are non-existent.  

If you’re driving a tiny car that is fuel efficient, like we were, you’ll be able to do each road trip on a single tank of gas. Which is great, because gas in Iceland is shockingly expensive to American’s like us.  

We really enjoyed getting out of town and experiencing the wild nature that Iceland offers. We think all of these day trips from Reykjavík are great ways to immerse yourself in the land of fire and ice. Choose one or choose them all to create your own Iceland itinerary all from the hub of the capital. If you have any questions about any of the day trips from Reykjavík, please leave them in the comments section below and we’d be happy to help.

This Post Has 2 Comments

Absolutely loved your post, this is extremely helpful. I could really use your advice if possible. My wife and I are extremely outdoorsy and will be in Iceland, staying in Reykjavík because of remote work for 6 full days. One will be spent at Blue Lagoon, but the rest are wide open. We need to be back between 4-5pm each day except for one day where we have absolutely no time restraints.

With all that info, I’d love to hear which of these day trips you’d recommend we take?

Thank you so much!

I think you could do the golden circle in two days-instead of the traditional one. There is a longer hike to Reykjadalur hot springs which was one of our favorite stops in all of Iceland – it’s a very wild outdoorsy type experience (there’s a link above if you’re curious). You could do this and the Southern part of the golden circle in one day. Then visit Thingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir in one day, preferably a weekday as these are busy stops but still amazing. One day in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Iceland in miniature with tons of outdoor stops. I would actually do a day in either Reykjavik exploring – it’s not the best big town but it’s still fun to wander. OR if your want another outdoorsy day, I would suggest a guided tour of a glacier or Landmannalaugar, you could even find a tour with both. However, these require a tour as logistics driving there/getting on a glacier require a guide.

On the day with no time restraints, I would for sure drive the southern coast to Vik and back. This will be a long day but with the extended sunlight and amazing stops, this is totally worth it in our opinion. This was the most “Iceland” part of Iceland – moody, wild and green. This road trip is the way we imagined Iceland before visiting.

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• 21 Best Day Trips from Reykjavik to Take in 2024

We hand-picked a list of the 21 best day trips from Reykjavik to help you plan your trip. Many visitors choose Reykjavik as their base for exploring Iceland. It’s not necessarily a bad choice because Reykjavik is close to many charming spots one can make a day trip to.

Having visited Iceland numerous times over several years, we list here exclusively the places that can realistically be planned for as a day trip , and we also believe are worth your precious time in Iceland!

We include all kinds of activities to offer a diverse range of adventures for all types of explorers. Our Reykjavik day trip guide should give you a good overview of what’s out there and what to choose to have an unforgettable Icelandic holiday!

1. Thórsmörk

2. kerlingarfjöll, 3. snæfellsnes, 4. katla ice cave, 5. snowmobiling, 6. southern highlands safari, 7. solheimajökull glacier, 8. hvammsvik, 9. hrunalaug, 10. black sand beach, 11. seljalandsfoss and skógafoss, 12. blue lagoon and sky lagoon, 13. active volcano, 15. fimmvörðuháls hike, 17. reykjadalur, 18. landmannalaugar, 19. westman islands, 20. golden circle, 21. háifoss.

Hiking trip in Þórsmörk valley

Þórsmörk is a hidden gem away from all the tourist crowds and yet pretty close to the main Icelandic ring road. Thórsmörk can easily be done as a day trip from Reykjavik. It’s a go-to place for every hiking enthusiast or avid nature explorer.

Lush green valleys intersected with hundreds of riverbeds with majestic glaciers sitting above this awe-inspiring scenery . That, and much more, is Þórsmörk.

How to get there

To reach the Valley of Thor, you have to overcome a rough highland road F249 . This so-called F-road requires a huge jeep because of the several significant rivers you must cross on your way.

There are three different ways to get to Thórsmörk:

• Take a guided Thórsmörk super jeep tour
• Take a public Highland bus to Þórsmörk
• Drive to Thórsmörk yourself

It takes less than 3 hours to reach Thórsmörk from Reykjavik.

Tip from a local

• It’s best to visit Þórsmörk between June and September when all the snow is melted and the valley is the most colorful.
• Plan for doing at least one hike . It’s more than just worth it!

Our experience

We drove to Thórsmörk ourselves with a modified Toyota Land Cruiser we rented in August. It was one of the highlights of our trip to Iceland. We wrote a detailed guide on visiting Þórsmörk and dealing with its challenges.

One of the Best Day Trips from Reykjavik – Kerlingarfjöll Hveradalir Geothermal area

Kerlingarfjöll is one of the most otherwordly spots you can visit as a day trip from Reykjavik. You will be hiking orange mountains full of steaming Sulphur and bubbling hot springs . We guarantee you’re going to feel like you’re on another planet!

Kerlingarfjöll is a must-see if you are into remote places in harsh surroundings and enjoy silence rather than company. Be sure to take any hike here , and your jaw will drop.

To reach Kerlingarfjöll, you can either:

• Drive there via rough but rather easy roads 35 and F347
• Take a guided Kerlingarfjöll tour
• Kerlingarfjöll typically enjoys volatile weather . A visit in heavy rain and wind may be quite unpleasant. We suggest carefully planning the trip according to the local weather forecast .
• Dress well! It will be cold, even in summer. When camping, remember that summer night temperatures may fall as low as 0°C, or 32°F.

We have visited Kerlingarfjöll several times and have always struggled with harsh weather . We wrote a detailed article on How to visit Kerlingarfjöll and what to see.

On one trip, we even took a hike to the tallest peak of Kerlingarfjöll called Snaekollur , and we can’t recommend it enough!

It takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to get to Kerlingarfjöll from Reykjavik.

Kirkjufell in winter, the most legendary place on a Snæfellsnes peninsula

Snæfellsnes peninsula is a great day trip spot full of natural wonders and mesmerizing coastal sceneries not too far from Reykjavik. It’s very well accessible with basically any car and almost any time of the year.

Some of the most photographed spots in Iceland , like Kirkjufell or Budakirkja, are in the heart of Snæfellsnes. Unique cliff formations, black beaches, narrow ravines for adventurers and even seals! You can find all of these in Snæfellsnes.

It will take you slightly over 2 hours of driving to get to Snæfellsnes from Reykjavik. Driving is the easiest and most convenient way to access Snæfellsnes.

• By far the most sought-after spot is Mt. Kirkjufell . We recommend visiting Kirkjufell before 10 AM or after 7 PM to avoid big tour groups .
• There’s a cute little hill with lovely views called Helgafell , where almost nobody goes. Check it out!

We visited Snæfellsnes three times. We enjoyed each trip a lot and highly recommend seeing the peninsula both in summer and winter . It looks entirely different when covered by snow in February, opposite to lush green surroundings in July or August.

Katla is the Best Ice Cave that can be done all year round as a Day Trip from Reykjavik

Katla is the most beautiful ice cave doable as a day trip from Reykjavik . And we don’t know anybody who was not impressed by Katla! It’s a one-of-a-kind ice cave consisting of glacial ice and black volcanic ash. Out of this world, colors will follow you with each step.

To visit Katla, you have to take a Katla guided tour . Visiting the cave by yourself is very dangerous and highly discouraged.

The best tour operator in Iceland running Katla Ice Cave tours is:

• Arctic Adventures (5% discount code: EPICICELAND23), pickup in Vik or Reykjavik

A ride to Katla from Reykjavik takes something over 3 hours.

• Katla is the only natural ice cave in Iceland open all year round for visitors.

If you could choose a season, we recommend going to Katla in winter . Katla typically possesses the most shiny colors between November and April in winter. You can also visit Katla outside of winter, and it’s still awesome, just a bit smaller and less shiny.

Snowmobiling day trip from Gullfoss

What about snowmobiling on a glacier besides volcanoes during the sunset? Too much of a cliché? Well, it’s entirely possible in Iceland!

Various tour providers offer the snowmobiling experience in Iceland. The two best ones are also located the closest to Reykjavik :

• Mountaineers of Iceland , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND, pickup at Gullfoss
• Icelandic Mountain Guides , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND24, pickup at Ytri Solheimar

To take a snowmobile tour, you can take either:

• Tour from Reykjavik: Take a combo super jeep tour of snowmobiles with Golden Circle or
• Self-Drive to meeting point: Either to Gullfoss (Mountaineers) or Myrdalsjökull (Icelandic Mountain Guides) and take just the snowmobile tour directly there

Reaching Gullfoss or Myrdalsjökull from Reykjavik will take you around 2 hours.

• The cheapest way to enjoy the snowmobile is to ride on a shared snowmobile with your companion. Separate snowmobiles are priced higher.

We are young, and we love adventure and speed. This means we would always choose the fastest snowmobiling tour available. Currently, Mountaineers run the fastest one from Gullfoss on a Langjökull glacier. The fast-paced tour is a bit pricier but comes with fewer fellow riders.

Best Super Jeep Day Trip from Reykjavik? Try Highlands with Midgard Adventure ! 10% discount code: EPICICELAND10

Southern Highlands of Iceland are our personal favorite when it comes to day trips from Reykjavik. It will be a long day, but the one you will never forget!

There’s just so much to see in the highlands, and basically, any place there looks like on another planet . You will be fording rivers with a jeep, exploring green volcanos, and admiring the harsh power of the Icelandic wilderness.

Reaching the southern highlands of Iceland requires a large 4×4 car and sound driving experience, including crossing treacherous rivers . You have two options when it comes to visiting the highlands:

• Study, practice, plan, and drive there on your own or
• Take a guided super jeep tour (10% discount code: EPICICELAND10)
• One day is not enough to explore every single place in the southern highlands. It could take you weeks to do so. Nevertheless, even one day in the highlands is much better than no day!

We’ve driven across the southern highlands countless times and never stopped admiring them. This is simply our most beloved corner of Iceland . We write extensively about every place we’ve ever visited in the highlands for free on our website.

Don’t underestimate the highlands! Always check the road conditions before going, and when feeling unsure, better don’t go!

Solheimajökull Glacier hike is the nearest glacier hiking trip you can take from Reykjavik

Do you want to hike on a glacier near Reykjavik ? Then, your best choice for a day trip would be a Solheimajökull glacier hike . Is that not enough? Well, then you can also take a kayaking tour of the glacial lagoon right next to the glacier!

Solheimajökull is the closest glacier to Reykjavik, providing excellent hiking and canoeing opportunities. Blue ice, white ice, ice covered with ash , or icebergs in a lagoon are just an introduction to this ice paradise.

You can reach Solheimajökull in about two and a half hours from Reykjavik. The ride there is easy and just follows the ring road.

To hike the glacier, you have to take a guided tour. It’s too dangerous to go on your own.

• There are several different glacier tours at Solheimajökull that vary in length and difficulty. Choose the one that suits you the best.

We had the best experience at Solheimajökull with the two most experienced local glacier hiking companies :

• Icelandic Mountain Guides , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND24
• Arctic Adventures , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND23

Hvammsvík Hot Spring is possibly the best hot spring day trip from Reykjavik! Image courtesy to: https://hvammsvik.com/

Hvammsvik hot spring offers a unique combination of a luxurious spa with Icelandic wilderness . The hot spa overlooks the fantastic scenery of Hvalfjordur Bay, with picturesque mountains in the background.

A combination of hot water and beautiful views of the fjord makes Hvammsvik a perfect spot for a relaxing day .

Hvammsvik is a top candidate for one of the best day trips from Reykjavik . It’s conveniently located just about an hour of drive from the Reykjavik city centre.

Our readers can use a 10% discount code : EPICICELAND10  on Classic and Comfort tickets bought online.

Alternatively, many guided tours visit Hvammsvik on a daily basis. You can either join one of these tours or simply drive to Hvammsvik yourself via easy and well-maintained roads.

We can highly recommend a Hvammsvik guided tour with Golden Circle run by NiceTravel, a top local family company. You can use a 5% discount code: EPICICELAND on their tours.

• Regardless of whether you’re a couple, a single traveler, or a family with small children, we are sure you will enjoy Hvammsvik! Just check out the reviews anywhere online.

We haven’t visited Hvammsvik yet, but we are really looking forward to it! We’ve heard so many spectacular references about this place. We plan to visit Hvammsvik during shoulder season, like April, May, or October, to avoid crowds .

Amazing scenery around Hrunalaug hot spring

Hrunalaug hot spring is one of the most picturesque Icelandic hot springs . As it is located close to the Golden Circle, “Hruni” has become a viral spot and a popular day trip from Reykjavik .

Netflix could easily feature Hrunalaug in a fairy tale. Green grass, sheep eating it, and in the midst of this scenery, an old wooden shelter with a hot pot next to it.

The only way to visit Hrunalaug is to drive there . No tours are stopping at Hrunalaug.

That being said, Hrunalaug is an easy one-and-a-half-hour-long drive from Reykjavik.

• Hrunalaug sits on private land, and you must pay for pool access .
• The hot spring has become quite crowded; better visit it during unusual time s.

We visited Hrunalaug for the first time in the summer of 2020 during the worldwide Covid lockdowns. The charm of the hot spring quickly enchanted us. Only until we had a very peculiar experience with a young Icelander in the hot pot :).

We’ve also been to Hrunalaug in winter and can confirm it’s an equally good choice. Maybe even more charming when you bathe with snow and ice everywhere around you.

One of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik, Reynisfjara beach, can easily get crowded also in winter. This is one of the most touristy places in Iceland.

The Black Sand Beach, or Reynisfjara in Icelandic, proudly belongs to the most beautiful day trips from Reykjavik. The beach has been featured in many movies and is famous due to the otherworldly sand and rock formations.

The Black Sand Beach is nested in the vicinity of the cute little town Vik. It takes around 2.5 hours to get to Reynisfjara from Reykjavik. The road is usually accessible all year round and by any car .

• The sneaky waves on the beach can be deadly. Always pay special attention to the traffic lights showing how far from the waves you should stand. More info about these dangerous waves is on the Icelandic Safe Travel website .

When we first visited Reynisfjara , I remember we just stood still in awe. Black Sand Beach is a one-of-a-kind place , and there’s no wonder it attracts so many visitors. That’s the price you have to pay for such a beautiful place that is very easily accessible from Reykjavik.

Two favorite waterfalls for Icelandic day trippers – Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss

Visiting Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls is most likely the the most popular day trip from Reykjavik . And for a very simple reason. These are the two most gorgeous yet easily accessible waterfalls in south Iceland.

Yes, Seljalandsfoss is that waterfall you can walk behind , and Skogafoss is the one you may climb above. Both are, without any doubt, just must-see spots for any first-time visitor . And when you are based in Reykjavik, it makes perfect sense to go see them on a day trip.

Driving on the main Icelandic ring road, you can easily reach both Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls from Reykjavik in about 2 hours.

The best way to do so is by renting a car . Alternatively, you can take a guided south coast tour . Almost all of them stop at both Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss and are pretty affordable.

• You can walk behind Seljalandsfoss only outside of winter . Otherwise, it’s dangerous due to paths full of snow and ice.
• Make sure to wear spikes on your shoes when taking stairs to climb above Skogafoss in winter . The trail is very slippery.

These two waterfalls are an Icelandic classic, and we’ve seen them countless times, so we are not that much excited about them anymore. BUT. Exactly the opposite was true when we saw them for the first time – we were impressed! And so will be you, so go and see them!

Blue lagoon and Sky lagoon

Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are iconic hot spas every visitor to Iceland has heard about . Being located either close the Keflavik airport or directly in Reykjavik, they are frequently a beloved candidate for a Reykjavik day trip.

Blue Lagoon offers an almost unrealistically looking blue color of water, that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year. On the other hand, Sky Lagoon is sought for its even more luxurious experience with the so-called 7 Steps Ritual and views over the ocean .

Sky Lagoon is located right in Reykjavik in the neighborhood called Kópavogur, near the shore. It takes 15 minutes to reach it by car from the city center. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or a public bus.

To reach the Blue lagoon, either rent a car and take a 20-minute drive from the airport or use a transportation service .

• Did you know that neither Blue Lagoon, nor Sky Lagoon are natural? Both have been man-made , and so is the source of the hot water.
• Ticket prices vary based on the particular time slot. The less attractive times have lower price .

Our philosophy goes against mass tourism, so we avoided both lagoons for years. Finally, we visited Blue Lagoon a year ago with modest expectations. And it was nice. Blue Lagoon definitely wasn’t and will never be a highlight of any of our trips to Iceland, but it can be a nice relaxing stop .

We took a day trip from Reykjavik to a lava field created by an active volcano at Fagradalsfjall.

BEWARE! Before visiting any volcanic area, carefully check www.road.is and www.safetravel.is. The area may be dangerous or closed!

Did you know Iceland boasts 32 active volcanoes ? Yes, you read it right, thirty-two. But don’t confuse an erupting volcano with an active volcano. These are two different things. No volcano is erupting at the time of writing this article.

So why go and see an active volcano? The closest active volcano that can be visited as a day trip from Reykjavik is Fagradasfjall volcano and its neighboring Litli-Hrútur area. Here you can admire the freshly spewed lava from 2021, 2022, and the summer of 2023 . And that is a hell of an experience!

There are two ways of getting to Fagradasfjall volcano. You can take a guided volcano tour or drive there yourself and take a hike. A drive takes about 30 minutes from Keflavik airport.

There are several hiking trails around Fagradasfjall . Choose the one that suits you based on your hiking ability and on how much time you have.

• Please closely monitor the situation of any volcano before heading there. Icelandic Safe Travel web should help a lot.

We were lucky enough to experience an active volcano in Iceland erupting and spewing out lava in August 2021. Similar “tourist” (harmless) eruptions then followed in the summer of 2022 and 2023 near the Fagradasfjall area.

In the end of 2023, however, Iceland faced a different kind of eruption near the town of Grindavik. This eruption may have been be very harmful and dangerous, but only locally around the Grindavik town. Please closely monitor the situation and information before visiting the area.

Amazing views from the yellow hiking trail in Þakgil

Although a bit further away from Reykjavik, Thakgil can make a day trip of a lifetime! Þakgil is one of our favorite spots in the Icelandic Highlands . When you go for a hike in Thakgil on a nice summer day, you will be rewarded with unbeatable views you will never forget about.

Þakgil is a majestic valley full of ravines, ridges, and even melting glaciers , just a few hours of hiking away from the Thakgil campsite. There are three main trails, and each one is simply breathtaking.

You can get to Þakgil only by car. To reach it, first, take the ring road towards Vik and then the rough road 214 full of potholes.

A journey to Thakgil will take you more than 3 hours from Reykjavik, but it will be worth every minute of driving! Be sure to rent a car with higher ground clearance , otherwise, you may damage the undercarriage. Road 214 is very bumpy.

• Þakgil boasts one of the most picturesque campsites in Iceland. If you are into camping, you can’t miss the Thakgil campsite!

We took the day trip to Þakgil from Vik, as it is much closer. The same can be done from Reykjavik as well, though, it just requires more time. We hiked two out of the three most beautiful hikes in Thakgil and wrote a detailed guide about hiking in Þakgil .

Fimmvörðuháls hike is one of the longest, but also one of the most beautiful day trips from Reykjavik

This place is famous for its panoramic views of the volcanoes Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla and its beautiful waterfalls and the Thórsmörk valley . The famous trail from Skógar to Thórsmörk passes through Fimmvörðuháls, which can continue to the rainbow mountains of Landmannalaugar .

What can you expect there? You will probably see the most dramatic scenery Iceland has to offer. Get ready for a series of canyon-like waterfalls, volcanic moonscape, glaciers, and many more.

The best way to get to Fimmvörðuháls is to rent a car from Reykjavík and drive along Route 1 towards the southeast until you reach Skógar, where the Fimmvörðuháls trailhead begins. It is possible to complete the hike in a day, but camping facilities are available for those wanting to extend their journey.

Tip from a local

• If you don’t have the energy or time to make all 22 kilometers, do not worry. From Skógafoss Waterfall in Skogar, follow the path along the Skóga River, where plenty of beautiful waterfalls await you.

Our Experience

You can read in detail about our experience in our Detailed guide to hiking Fimmvörðuháls . Long story short, we highly recommend you hike Fimmvörðuháls at least once in your life! But only in summer and only in good weather. The trek may be dangerous otherwise.

We started the trek in Skógar and finished in Thórsmörk in about 9 hours, still having plenty of time to wait for the last bus. There was one section that was quite dangerous, and hiking poles were a must. Other than that, the hike was not difficult, just long. This can change dramatically during adverse weather, though.

Glymur is one of the most sought-after waterfalls in Iceland. It makes for a beautiful summer day hike.

Glymur, the second-tallest waterfall in Iceland , is a hidden gem within easy reach of Reykjavik. It was the tallest in Iceland at 198 meters. In 2011, however, it was overtaken by Morsárfoss with 240 meters. Though this waterfall is very difficult to access, we can still say Glymur is the tallest accessible waterfall in Iceland .

Glymur is one of the best one-day trips that you can do from Reykjavík. The surrounding nature is beautiful, and you will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere when you come here.

Drive north from Reykjavik towards Hvalfjörður. From the parking lot, follow the signs to the Glymur trail. You will then have a roughly 50-minute trek uphill quite steeply. The hike is moderately challenging but well-marked.

• The hike to Glymur is usually only one-way, but if you don’t want to follow the same way, we have a pro tip . It includes a river crossing. Follow the trail until the peak and then get down to the river, choose the spot you like, and get ready for some adventure. The water is cold, but it allows you to make a loop, see the waterfall from all sides, and enjoy more Icelandic nature. There is a well-marked trail.

Glymur is quite a hike, but it is worth every breath. At one point, you need to cross a river – there is a log with a rope to get over so your feet will not get wet. The more you move up, the more you can enjoy an unbelievable view of the deep and narrow gorge and surrounding mountains.

Reykjadalur Hot River is a trendy Reykjavik day trip all year round.

Do you want to enjoy a hot bath after the hike? Then Reykjadalur is a great place for your one-day trip from Reykjavík. The trail is not very challenging, so it is also suitable for beginners.

Reykjadalur is a very famous spot, so don’t be surprised if you won’t be alone there. On the positive side, thanks to that, there are wooden walkways around the river and even screens for changing clothes.

The trail starts in Hveragerði. It takes around 45 minutes to drive there from Reykjavík. There is a paid parking lot where you can leave a car and then follow the signs for the trail to Reykjadalur.

It is so close you can even get there by bus from Reykjavík . Take the bus number 51 from Mjödd Bus Stop in Reykjavík. Get off in Hveragerði and continue to the Reykjadalur parking lot. But it takes around 45 minutes to walk from the bus to the parking lot.

• If you want to avoid crowds , take advantage of long summer days and go there early in the morning or later in the evening.
• Reykjadalur in winter can be challenging, wear spikes!

A small hill in the beginning was a bit steep, but after that, the hike was quite easy. After about an hour of hiking, we enjoyed a relaxing reward.

The higher upstream we went, the warmer the water got. Where the water is at the best temperature for a bath, wooden walkways, benches, and changing shelters have been built around the river. The water temperature here is between 35 and 45 °C (95 to 113 °F) .

Amazingly beautiful roads around Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar is an iconic, must-visit place located in the southern highlands of Iceland. This geothermal valley offers stunning views of multi-colored mountains and thermal springs . It is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Enjoy views of lush green valleys, walk through black-grey lava fields, observe steaming spots in the valleys and mountains, and relax in hot springs .

There are multiple options for taking a day trip to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik:

• Drive yourself. A 4×4 car is required, and various roads of variable difficulties lead there. Please read our detailed Landmannalaugar guide .
• Take a Landmannalaugar super jeep tour
• Take a Highland bus

A journey to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik takes about 3 hours.

• If you want to enjoy more of Landmannalaugar, there is a campsite where you can stay overnight.
• Landmannalaugur is accessible only from around mid-June to mid-September . Outside of this time, the road is closed due to weather conditions.

We keep coming back to Landmannalaugar over and over. It’s a magical place with endless hiking opportunities . We’ve recently discovered a magnificent Graenihryggur hike and can’t recommend it enough!

We advise you to choose some of the many Landmannalaugar hiking trails based on your time and hiking skills. Try to follow the tracks deeper into nature or climb up to catch the best views .

A hot candidate for a top Reykjavik day trip? Westman Islands are close!

In our opinion, the Westman Islands are most likely the best day trip from Reykjavik, where you can enjoy so many attractions in a small area in just one day.

Westman Islands, precisely the main island – Heimaey , have everything – mountains, puffin colonies, volcanoes, and interesting history . It is easily reachable, and even though it is better to plan it at least for two days, you can explore it in one day, too.

To get to the main island of Heimaey, you need to take a ferry departing from Landeyjahöfn , which is 2 hours away from Reykjavík, following Ring Road to the south.

• You can explore the island on foot, but if you want to save time, take a car with you .
• Heimaey has one of the largest puffin colonies . Visit the island while puffin season is on.

We visited Westman Islands on a sunny summer day, and that’s exactly what we recommend to you as well. Wait for a nice day! It’s more than just worth it. Westman islands are one of the windiest places in Europe, so dress well, you’re going to feel the wind!

We wrote a detailed article with all the attractions, hiking trails, and things to do on Westman islands in one day.

By far the most crowded day trip from Reykjavik is the Golden Circle.

The Golden Circle is one of Reykjavik’s most famous day trips, featuring three iconic destinations: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. This route provides a perfect introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders.

Golden Circle might be crowded and very touristic, but we must put it on this list as it is a kind of a trailer of what Iceland can offer. 

The Golden Circle is easily accessible by car from Reykjavík . The entire loop is about 230 kilometers, and you can complete it in a day. There are many different locations where you can stop and enjoy some nice walks around the area.

All the spots are very accessible by car. There are also many Golden Circle guided day tours to choose from .

• Golden Circle is the most visited area in Iceland, so prepare for crowds. If you want to avoid people , start early.

We are not huge fans of the Golden Circle because this is one of the most crowded day trips in Iceland. That being said, it’s definitely a beautiful start for any Iceland first-timer.

We suggest you also add some other places in the area to your itinerary to make it a bit different. You can, for example, dive into the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir or the cute Hrunalaug Hot Spring . After that, you can continue to Kerid Crater , the picturesque lake in a volcanic crater formed around 4000 BC.

Haifoss waterfall

Háifoss is one of Iceland’s highest waterfalls , falling from 122 meters into the Fossá River Canyon. The waterfall is located in a desert landscape a little bit away from the main tourist streams . You will have a quiet place to visit and enjoy the solitude of the landscape to the full.

Haifoss is easily accessible with a 4×4 car . It takes roughly 2 hours to reach it from Reykjavik.

Alternatively, some guided tours going to Landmannalaugar also include Haifoss in their itineraries. However, there’s no bus option to Haifoss .

• A visit to the waterfall can be combined with a trip to the Rainbow Mountains of Landmannalaugar , as it is close to the road leading to them.
• Route 332 to Haifoss is entirely impassable in winter.
• Consider combining this trip with another nearby waterfall – Hjálparfoss .

When we visited Haifoss , we realized that the main waterfall viewpoint was not very far away from the parking lot. This means many other visitors may be standing at this place, racing for better pictures.

However, there are other trails you can take if you want to explore the area more. You can even walk down to the valley and walk through the canyon to the end. Then, you will enjoy the majestic waterfall from below and typically have it all for yourself!

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Posted by Igor

¡Hola! Vamos a Islandia el año que viene, del 21 de mayo al 1 de junio y nos gustaría dedicar un día completo (a ser posible desde Reikiavik) para hacer un hiking por las tierras altas. No tenemos claro si para entonces estarán ya abiertas las carreteras. ¿Podrías recomendarme algun hiking a ser posible que podamos hacer por libre? De lo contrario, alguna empresa que se dedique a ello para ver qué opciones nos dan.

Hi Lorena, it’s highly likely the roads will not be open yet for public. It’s best you take a look at tours, two best ones are:

• https://midgardadventure.is/ , 10% discount code: EPICICELAND10
• https://www.mountainguides.is/ , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND24

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14 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik, Iceland (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: April 25, 2024

Check out our list of the best day trips from Reykjavik, Iceland!

Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Iceland, Reykjavik is not just a city rich in culture and history but also the perfect launching pad for day trips around the country.

Whether you’re looking to explore the rugged coastlines, volcanic terrains, or quaint Icelandic villages, there are lots of amazing day trips from the city.

Each journey from Reykjavik leads to a unique destination, offering an intimate encounter with Iceland’s raw, unspoiled beauty.

From the awe-inspiring geysers and waterfalls of the Golden Circle to the tranquil beauty of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, these day trips present the best of Iceland’s natural wonders.

The itineraries are diverse – whether it’s chasing the dance of the Northern Lights, soaking in the geothermal bliss of a natural hot spring, or hiking through scenic trails that tell tales of bygone volcanic eruptions.

So if you’re visiting Iceland’s capital city, here are some of the most unforgettable day trips from Reykjavik.

Find more amazing things to do in Iceland so you can embrace this beautiful country!

Table of Contents

1. The Golden Circle

2. the blue lagoon, 3. iceland south coast, 4. katla ice cave, 5. langjökull glacier, 6. sólheimajökull glacier hike, 7. snaefellsnes peninsula, 8. silfra fissure, 9. horseback riding in hafnarfjörður, 10. northern lights day trips, 11. landmannalaugar and the valley of tears tour, 12. reykjanes peninsula, 13. jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, 14. whale watching tour, 14 best day trips from reykjavik.

From seeing a black sand beach on a South Coast tour, to touring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir National Park along the Golden Circle, there are so many epic day trips to take from Reykjavik, Iceland.

See the Northern Lights, go whale watching, snorkel between tectonic plates, hike a glacier, explore ice caves, and more.

There is a huge range of incredible tours that take you to the most popular attractions around Iceland and allow you to engage with the landscape. So while visiting Reykjavik, consider some of these popular day trips!

• Distance from Reykjavik: 160km to the furthest point along the Golden Circle
• Driving time: 3 hour loop

The Golden Circle Day Trip from Reykjavik is a quintessential Icelandic excursion, offering an unforgettable journey through some of Iceland’s most spectacular landscapes.

This popular day trip covers three of Iceland’s most iconic natural landmarks: Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir National Park), the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall, each site boasting its unique geological and historical importance.

Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is not only a place of stunning natural beauty but also a cornerstone of Icelandic history, being the original site of the world’s oldest parliament established in 930 AD.

The park is situated in a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, offering a remarkable display of geological wonders.

The Geysir Geothermal Area is next, where visitors witness the awe-inspiring Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters into the air.

This geothermal wonderland is a vivid demonstration of the Earth’s natural power.

Lastly, the tour visits Gullfoss, or the ‘Golden Waterfall’, an iconic waterfall that plunges into a deep gorge, creating a spectacular sight, especially on sunny days when rainbows often appear in the mist.

Golden Circle Tours typically last about 7 to 9 hours, making them an ideal full day trip from Reykjavik. These tours are available year-round, providing different but equally stunning experiences in each season.

While summer offers lush landscapes and extended daylight, winter reveals a magical, snowy wonderland, often with fewer tourists.

Departing from Reykjavik, Golden Circle Tours are available in various formats, from large bus tours to smaller, more personalized groups, and often include knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insights into Icelandic culture, history, and geology.

The Golden Circle Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Iceland, encapsulating the beauty, power, and history of this unique land in one memorable trip.

• Distance from Reykjavik: 49km
• Driving time: 45 minutes one way

The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly one of the best day trips when visiting Iceland. Located just 45 minutes away from Reykjavik, it’s super easy to venture out to this stunning natural wonder on a day trip from the city.

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a mesmerizing natural wonder, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters set against a backdrop of rugged volcanic landscapes.

Located in the heart of a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, this geothermal spa offers visitors a unique opportunity to rejuvenate in its mineral-rich waters, which are heated by underground volcanic activity.

Because the Blue Lagoon is like a spa, the most popular way to visit is by booking round trip transfers from Reykjavik with the entry ticket. You’ll be whisked out of the city in a comfortable bus or van and have the day to enjoy the Blue Lagoon however you choose.

Lounge in geothermal pools, smooth the white silica mud on your skin, or venture into the steam rooms. This day trip offers the opportunity to relax and renew, so enjoy it!

• Distance from Reykjavik: 187km to the southernmost village of Vik on the South Coast
• Driving time: 2.5 hours one way

The South Coast of Iceland is a stunning part of the country that makes an excellent day trip from the city. On this full day tour , you can see the highlights of Iceland’s south in one action-packed day.

Stroll along a gorgeous black sand beach, marvel at majestic waterfalls including Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Skógafoss Waterfall, and take in the glacial views.

At Seljalandsfoss Waterfall you may even be able to walk behind the waterfall if the weather permits!

Other highlights you may see on a South Coast day trip include Vik, the country’s southernmost village, and Sólheimajökull, a dramatic glacier snout, and the impressive basalt sea columns at Reynisfjara.

The South Coast of Iceland just has so much to see in terms of natural beauty, making it one of the best day trips from Reykjavik!

This region is not only a testament to Iceland’s geological wonders but also a playground for adventurers, offering amazing views of hiking trails, lava fields, glacier walks, waterfalls, and remote beaches.

• Distance from Reykjavik: 207km
• Driving time: 3 hours one way

Continue your exploration of Iceland’s South Coast with a visit to Katla Ice Cave. Located just inland from the coast, guided tours through Katla Ice Cave provide an unforgettable experience, allowing adventurers to navigate through narrow passages and expansive chambers adorned with dazzling ice formations.

Day trips to Katla Ice Cave usually depart from Reykjavik or Vik, and they bring you into the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier on Iceland’s South Coast.

Named after the mighty volcano beneath which it lies, Katla Ice Cave provides a unique opportunity to explore a world sculpted by centuries of glacial movement.

During your ice cave tour, you’ll be able to see the intricate patterns and textures of ice as you explore the inside of a glacier. Exploring the inside of ice caves is an unbelievable experience!

Your guides will supply crampons and helmets to ensure everyone stays safe during ice cave tours. This Katla Ice Cave Tour combines the cave with other highlights of South Iceland including waterfalls and the black sand beach.

Read next: The BEST Hiking in Switzerland – Trekking Guide

• Distance from Reykjavik: 103km
• Driving time: 3 hours one way (2 hours road driving and 1 hour driving up the glacier)

Here is another glacier day trip for those hoping to explore the icy wilderness outside Reykjavik! Langjökull Glacier , Iceland’s second-largest ice cap, is a vast expanse of shimmering ice in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands.

Langjökull, which translates to “Long Glacier,” is a marvel of nature, spanning approximately 953 square kilometers (368 square miles).

Its icy surface conceals a world of wonders, from hidden ice caves to mesmerizing blue ice formations, offering a glimpse into the breathtaking forces that have shaped Iceland’s landscape over millennia.

Guided tours across Langjökull’s icy plains provide adventurers with the opportunity to traverse this frozen wilderness, marveling at the sheer magnitude of the glacier and its surrounding snow-capped peaks.

You’ll drive from Reykjavik out to the glacier and actually drive across the glacier in a specialized vehicle.

Then explore the world’s largest ice tunnel and learn about the geology, history, and formation of glaciers from your expert guide. This sightseeing tour is an excellent way to appreciate the beauty of Iceland’s glaciers!

• Distance from Reykjavik: 165km
• Driving time: 2 hours and 15 minutes one way

Adventurous travelers can also join a glacier hike on one of their day trips from Reykjavik. Sólheimajökull is one of the most accessible glaciers for day tours onto the ice.

Glacier hiking is something that should definitely be done with a reputable tour company, as you need the right gear and instruction. You also need to know exactly where to go! Arctic Adventures and TrollExpeditions are two top choices for booking a glacier hike from Reykjavik.

Another option is Glaciers and Waterfalls ehf , which includes the Sólheimajökull Glacier hike with other highlights of the South Coast including the black sand beach.

Once you’ve booked your day trip with one of the top-rated tour companies, get ready for an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure through Iceland’s icy landscape!

Towering ice formations, crevasses, and crystal-clear blue ice create a surreal atmosphere on the glacier.

With expert guides and equipment to keep you stable, you can hike across the ancient glaciers and marvel at nature’s grandeur. You’ll gain insight into the glacier’s formation, its ecological significance, and the impacts of climate change.

If you’re an active traveler who loves hiking and unique outdoor challenges, glacier hiking is one of the best day trips to try in Iceland!

Find more epic hikes in Europe with our Beginner’s Guide to Hiking in Norway !

• Distance from Reykjavik: 180km
• Driving time: About 2.5 hours one way

Located on the coast of west Iceland, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is known for its dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic peaks. This peninsula offers a visual feast for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

At its heart lies the iconic Snaefellsjökull volcano, with its glacier-capped summit towering over the surrounding terrain.

From the charming fishing villages dotting the coastline to the windswept beaches teeming with birdlife, every corner of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula has something cool to see.

The Snæfellsjökull glacier, Saxhóll Crater, Kirkjufell and Berserkjahraun lava fields, small villages, and black sand beaches are among the most popular sites in the area.

Those interested in Icelandic history can also check out the mysterious Budakirkja , also known as the “Black Church” which has artifacts from the 19th century.

This is an easy day trip to do with a rental car if you just want to drive around the peninsula and visit the various landmarks. Or you can choose a guided tour with a knowledgeable local who will take you to all the best spots.

This Snaefellsnes Peninsula Full Day Tour or this Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Day Trip are both top-rated options!

Read next: 6 Adventure Activities In Svalbard Not To Be Missed

• Distance from Reykjavik: 54km
• Driving time: 55 minutes one way

One of the absolute coolest day trips to try in Iceland is snorkelling in between tectonic places! Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park is a geological wonder that mesmerizes visitors with its crystalline waters and otherworldly beauty.

Carved by the shifting tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia, this underwater chasm offers a unique opportunity for snorkelers and divers to traverse the gap between continents.

Its exceptionally clear, glacial-fed waters provide visibility of up to 100 meters, unveiling a unique underwater landscape with intricate rock formations.

Day tours to Silfra Fissure depart from Reykjavik so you can explore this underwater world with an experienced adventure guide.

Snorkelling between tectonic plates at Silfra Fissure is another one of those adventures that should not be attempted on your own without a guided tour! You need the right gear and the knowledge of a local to ensure you stay safe.

On this Silfra Fissure snorkelling tour , you are provided with hefty dry suits, snorkel gear, and a PADI-certified dive guide so you can stay dry and warm while you swim in glacial waters. This small-group activity is one of the best day trips from Reykjavik for adventurers!

• Distance from Reykjavik: 13km
• Driving time: 20 minutes one way

Another one of the best day trips around Reykjavik is horseback riding through the lava fields of Hafnarfjörður. If you’re looking for a fun adventure that’s a bit tamer than hiking a glacier or snorkeling between tectonic plates, a leisurely horse ride around the idyllic landscapes of Iceland is a great tour to choose.

This tour with Íshestar Stables provides visitors with an authentic Icelandic horse riding experience through the dramatic lava fields and beautiful green hillsides.

The tour guides provide warm overalls, rain gear, riding boots, and helmets that will keep you safe and dry as you explore the outdoors by horseback.

This is one of the best ways to connect with nature, escape the city, and marvel at the pristine natural beauty around Iceland. And it’s right outside Reykjavik, making it one of the easiest and closest day trips to town!

• Distance from Reykjavik: Locations vary
• Driving time: Most northern lights tours are around 3-4 hours

When venturing anywhere in the Earth’s far north, seeing the northern lights is a must (also called Aurora Borealis). Admiring the mystical northern lights is a bucket-list experience for many, and Iceland is one of the best places to watch this marvelous natural phenomenon.

You might not see the northern lights in Reykjavik, as there is a good amount of light pollution from the city. To see the northern lights while visiting Reykjavik, your best bet is to book guided day trips out into the remote wilderness of Iceland.

You can always look for the northern lights on your own if you have a rental car, but going with a local guide gives you a much better chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis.

The locals always know the best places to go at the right times, so it’s worth booking group tours for a once-in-a-lifetime experience like this.

Some of the top-rated Northern Lights tours are with Northern Lights Bus , Gray Line Iceland , or Rvk Sightseeing . The best chance of seeing the northern lights on your tour is during winter, and most tours offer a free return tour if you don’t see anything. Because we can never truly predict Mother Nature!

• Distance from Reykjavik: 308km
• Driving time: 5 hours

Landmannalaugar, nestled in the heart of Iceland’s Highlands, is a geological marvel and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unparalleled natural beauty.

Renowned for its colorful rhyolite mountains, bubbling hot springs, and vast lava fields, this remote wilderness in Fjallabak Nature Reserve is another one of the best day trips to try from Reykjavik!

Here, hiking trails wind through the terrain, offering panoramic vistas of volcanic peaks, moss-covered valleys, and geothermal vents.

The lava fields and the rhyolite mountains were formed by ancient volcanic activity. In this area, you can admire lots of black obsidian volcanic rock which is known for its unique and smooth appearance.

The natural hot springs are another draw of Landmannalaugar, as is Sigöldugljúfur which is a dramatic canyon known as The Valley of Tears.

There are lots of incredible things to see and do, but the terrain is very rugged so the best option for travelers is booking a 4WD tour or a guided trek. Glaciers and Waterfalls ehf and Try Iceland Tours both offer action-packed, full-day tours of the area that include the best waterfalls, mountains, hot springs, lava fields, and more.

Love cold landscapes? Check out our complete Travel Guide to Antarctica !

• Distance from Reykjavik: 68km
• Driving time: 1 hour

The Reykjanes Peninsula, situated on the southwestern coast of Iceland, is a geological marvel teeming with dramatic landscapes and unique natural phenomena.

Renowned for its rugged volcanic terrain, Reykjanes is characterized by steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and expansive lava fields, making it a captivating day trip from Reykjavik.

A highlight of the peninsula is the Seltún Geothermal Area, a space filled with vivid hues of red, yellow, and green, steaming fumaroles, and hot springs.

Geldingadalir Valley is another hotspot here with cool walks and hiking trails. The valley gained worldwide attention in 2021 with the eruption of the Fagradalsfjall Volcano.

Visitors can also check out the Reykjanes Lighthouse and the Bridge Between Continents, the latter of which spans the narrow fissure where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates diverge.

Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula by either renting a car and doing a road trip around the area, or joining a guided tour !

• Distance from Reykjavik: 379km
• Driving time: 4.5 hours

Another one of the coolest day trips from the city is Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon on the southeastern coast of Iceland.

Fed by the Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe’s largest ice cap, this otherworldly lagoon showcases a mesmerizing array of icebergs, sculpted by the relentless forces of nature.

A bit further along the coast from this stunning glacier is Diamond Beach, and most day trips combine the two natural attractions into one tour.

Named for the glistening icebergs that wash ashore from the nearby lagoon, Diamond Beach is covered in countless crystalline fragments, resembling diamonds strewn upon black volcanic sands.

• Distance from Reykjavik:
• Driving time:

Another fun day trip to try when you visit Reykjavik is whale watching! Anyone interested in animals and marine life should definitely book a whale watching cruise that takes you around the icy waters and gives you the chance to spot these majestic giants frolicking in the ocean.

April to late September or early October is the best time for whale watching tours from Reykjavik, with June, July and August being the absolute best months.

There is nothing quite as spectacular as touring the North Atlantic Ocean and admiring the humpback whales, minke whales, porpoises, and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Combine your whale watching tour with a visit to the Whales of Iceland Exhibition located in Reykjavik Harbour. This is a super cool place to learn more about whales in Iceland!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The Best Tours & Activities in Iceland

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Guided Iceland Tours From Reykjavik

Bustling Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is the starting point of our tours. Visiting some of the most amazing places, giving you an eyeful of the surrounding nature, our top of the range Iceland day tours are the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation.

The best day trips from Reykjavik will have you out in the country for a full day, hitting all of the top tourist destinations and allowing you more than enough time to do a little exploring while you learn about Iceland’s proud heritage. Reykjavik is considered by many to be the gateway to Iceland, providing guests with the perfect starting point from which to see the Northern Lights, the scenic trails and the unforgettable cascading waterfalls.

Interested in these tours? Why not take a look at some of the other options that we have available on our website? Choose to participate in exciting lava cave Iceland tours or catch one of our luxurious Reykjavik to Blue Lagoon transfers to and from the lagoon. Browse through our website to make your choice on how to experience Iceland today.

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Best day trips from Reykjavik: whales, fjords and waterfalls

Mar 2, 2022 • 5 min read

From the southwest corner of Iceland, you have easy access to some of the country's most iconic sights © Creative Family / Shutterstock

Back in the day, when Iceland’s founding fathers decided to make Reykjavík the nation's capital, they were in fact doing future visitors a massive favor: the southwestern corner is an excellent base for exploring many of the country's most iconic sights, from glacial caves to steaming lagoons.

Here are four of the best day trips from Reykjavík , accessible year-round. 

The Golden Circle

Why go? The route loops three iconic sights: Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss

The famous Golden Circle  is a 250km (155-mile) route covering two continents – yes, continents! The first stop on the itinerary is  Þingvellir National Park , which marks the tectonic plate boundaries for Europe and North America, pulling apart the landscape with canyons and cracks. But there's an added layer of history that makes this Unesco World Heritage site all the more unique: Iceland’s parliament, Althingi, was founded at Þingvellir in the year 930 CE. 

Geysir has been Iceland’s world-famous natural phenomenon since the invention of printed illustrations. It also served as an inspiration for the English language: the word geyser  – a periodically spouting hot spring – draws from this Geysir with a capital G.  To the surprise of many, the old Geysir has long since retired; today the spouting icon of Iceland is instead the neighboring Strokkur , erupting every 10 minutes, give or take. 

A 15-minute drive from Geysir is the waterfall Gullfoss , cascading down a powerful glacial river. The name means "golden waterfall," and on a sunny day we can guarantee an impressive rainbow. Guests need to walk about 500m (.3 miles) from the parking lot for a close – and wet – view of this Icelandic landmark. 

A final tip: The Icelandic Tourism Board operates  digital counters  monitoring traffic to major sights by the hour, an excellent tool for travelers seeking to avoid big crowds at Gullfoss and Geysir. 

Choosing a Golden Circle route from Reykjavík 

The shortest version of the Golden Circle goes via Laugarvatn. Longer day tours take a wider loop around southern Iceland by extending to Flúðir and Selfoss. Side attractions include the 6500-year-old explosion crater Kerið and the geothermal lagoon at Gamla Laugin .  

Langjökull Glacier

Why go? For snowmobile tours and the ice tunnel 

Iceland’s second-largest glacier is open for visitors – literally. The glacier has a door the shape and size of a massive drill, leading some 500m (.3 miles) into the ice cap. Completed in 2015, this human-made tunnel is operated by the company Into the Glacier and only accessible via super-Jeep. Because the natural ice caves at the foot of a glacier break down when temperatures rise in the spring, the tunnel is located on top of the ice cap for year-round accessibility. 

Langjökull has spectacular snowmobile routes, with mountains peeking from the ice cap and snow-topped hills bound to get the adrenaline flowing. But most amazing is the endless desolation drivers experience by crossing at high speeds without landmarks. Excursions last about an hour and are operated by Mountaineers of Iceland and Arctic Adventures . 

How to get from Reykjavík to Langjökull 

Tours from Reykjavík take at least 10 hours altogether. Roads to the foot of the glacier are only accessible by large trucks, but with a rental car it is possible to arrange a pickup where the tarmac ends. For visits to Into the Glacier that means driving to Húsafell to the west; snowmobile tours operate on the southern side near Gullfoss Waterfall. 

Blue Lagoon

Why go? To soak in a unique bath resort 

When you think of Iceland, no doubt one of the first things that comes to mind is the Blue Lagoon . Walking out in a fluffy white bathrobe to milky-blue water surrounded by lava is the epitome of relaxation and luxury. Conveniently located 20 minutes from the airport, there's a reason it's the most visited tourist destination on the island.

The lagoon has health benefits too. Silica in the water causes the blue-green color, but it also creates a soft white mud on the lagoon’s floor that can help with skin conditions, including psoriasis. 

Prices vary depending on the time of day, ranging from €60 to €100 (US$68 to $113), and require an advance reservation. Towels are provided, and guests must shower before entering.  

How to get from Reykjavík to the Blue Lagoon 

Upon booking a ticket online, guests can pay additional €48 ($54) for transportation between either Keflavík Airport or downtown Reykjavík. Multiple bus operators in Reykjavík also offer scheduled tours. 

Hvalfjörður 

Why go? For pristine hiking paths  

A long, zigzag drive down Hvalfjörður used to be an inevitable part of leaving Reykjavík to the west. But on a sunny day in 1998, the underwater Hvalfjörður Tunnel shortened the Ring Road by an hour, and the branch-shaped, history-laden Whale Fjord became a quiet detour.

One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, Glymur , welcomes those still taking the long way around the fjord – but you'll have to go on foot. Prepare for a multi-hour trek, with some rewarding views over Hvalfjörður. The path is a 7km (3-mile) loop starting in Botnsdalur at the fjord’s bottom. The route is only 400m (1312ft) in elevation but still moderately difficult with two steep hills.

It's not ideal for young children or the inexperienced – hikers need to cross a river stream, either barefoot or wearing proper footwear, and those taking the entire loop will cross a second stream close to the waterfall. Budget at least three hours. A shorter, one-hour hike goes to the Þvottahellir Cave.

How to get to Hvalfjörður

A rental car is the best way to visit Hvalfjörður. The tunnel is designed to be the default choice for drivers, so it's easy to miss the turn – watch out for the sign pointing to Route 47.

The context: Hvalfjörður’s violent history

Hvalfjörður is historically known for two deadly industries: whaling and warfare. Allied forces in WWII guarded the fjord’s narrow mouth like an entrance to a fortress and based naval operations at the bottom. The largest preserved settlement of army barracks is by the main road at Miðsandur farm; the  War & Peace Museum  tells the story.

Just nearby is a whaling station, where massive baleen whales have been dragged on land and sliced up over the years. The factory has been idle since 2018 but is not officially shut.

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19 Best Day Trips from Reykjavík to Explore Iceland’s Natural Wonders

You really can’t go to Iceland without capturing as many waterfall photos as your camera will allow and marveling at massive glaciers, but if you’re basing yourself in Reykjavík, you might be worried about what is possible. 

Worry no more! 

While Reykjavík offers an abundance of culture and adventure, there are many other amazing things you should see and explore — all within a day from Reykjavík! Even if your time is limited in Iceland, don’t miss one or two of these fantastic day trips!  

From soaking in geothermal pools to hiking across a frozen glacier, this guide features the best Reykjavik day trips that have been experienced by seasoned travel writers!

This article contains affiliate links (paid links) and Veggies Abroad is a member of Amazon Services LLC Associated Program. A t no cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — this helps keep Veggies Abroad churning out free content! For an explanation of our advertising partnerships, please review our privacy policy.

The Best Day Trips from Reykjavík to Add to Your Itinerary

#1 discover the golden circle.

When you only have time to explore some of Iceland’s natural wonders, The Golden Circle is a great place to go and one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavík. 

This 300-km (186-mile) loop takes you to Iceland’s big three — a bursting geyser, a powerful waterfall, and a National Park where you can walk between the tectonic plates that separate North America from Europe. 

Depending on which way you start, your first stop will either be Thingvellir National Park (home of the tectonic plates) or the Geysir Geothermal Area — there’s no wrong way to start! The Thingvellir National Park is situated in a rift valley formed by the separation of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The diverging plates have created deep cracks and fissures (you can snorkel in the Silfra Fissure ), resulting in stunning landscapes, including cliffs, canyons, and the picturesque Lake Thingvallavatn.

The Geysir Geothermal Area is known for its geothermal activity, including geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots. Here you can witness the Strokkur Geyser erupting every few minutes! 

Just a short drive from the Geysir Geothermal Area is the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall, also known as the “Golden Falls.” The name comes from the sediment in the water that gives a brown tint that can be seen on sunny days. Although it’s not the largest waterfall in Iceland, its power is still mesmerizing — no matter the season. 

You can explore the Golden Circle in two ways — on an organized tour from Reykjavík or a self-driving adventure. Thingvellir National Park is only 47 km (25 miles) from Reykjavík, and although it’s not far in the distance, you should still plan for an all-day adventure. 

#2 Snorkel Between Two Continents 

Snorkeling in Silfra (located in the Thingvellir National Park) is an experience like no other. It’s absolutely worth going on a day trip from Reykjavík because it’s the only place in the world where you can snorkel between two continents . The water is crystal clear, and the visibility is incredible; you are only limited in visibility by your own sight, not because of water clarity. The water is so pure that you can even drink it! At least, this is what they say, but I’m not sure I would.

If possible, you should try to go during the summer when you have a better chance of sun; the visibility is even better. The underwater world of Silfra is simply breathtaking. You’ll see colorful algae and fascinating rock formations, but don’t expect exotic fish or a coral reef. The water temperature stays around 2°C all year round, but don’t worry; you’ll be provided a dry suit to keep you warm. 

The drive from Reykjavík to Silfra takes around one hour, and you’ll be surrounded by stunning Icelandic scenery along the way. Snorkeling in Silfra is an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss during your visit to Iceland — there’s nothing like this anywhere else in the world! Recommended by Honest Travel Stories

#3 Explore the Blue Diamond Circle in Reykjanes Peninsula

The Blue Diamond Circle is a driving route on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula filled with natural wonders and cultural sites. Located southwest of Reykjavík, this circular route spans approximately 180 kilometers and showcases the region’s unique landscapes. It includes the area around Keflavík Airport and the Blue Lagoon, making it a great extension when traveling in this area.

The Blue Diamond Circle allows you to see the dynamic forces of nature at work and includes geothermal areas similar to the much larger areas in the north of the country. Gunnuhver geothermal area, known for its steam vents and boiling hot springs, is located close to Reykjanesviti lighthouse, perched on the rugged coastline, offering panoramic views. The route also features volcanic craters, steaming new lava fields, and the famous Blue Lagoon. It is also possible to cross the Bridge Between the Continents, where you can cross the Mid-Atlantic ridge, one of the few places where it is not underwater.

The Blue Diamond Circle is easily accessible from Reykjavík, with a starting point roughly 50 kilometers southwest of the capital. Allowing a full day for the Blue Diamond Circle is recommended to thoroughly appreciate the attractions and experiences along the route. This ensures enough time for leisurely walks, exploration, and soaking up the unique sights. If you don’t have a car, check out this private tour which includes the active Fagradalsfjall volcano! Recommended by Meandering Wild 

#4 Get Up Close to Massive Icebergs at The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

If you’ve never had the chance to get up close to massive icebergs, this is it! The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular and deepest lagoons (lakes).

The lagoon is formed by the melting of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which is part of the larger Vatnajökull glacier. As the glacier retreats, chunks of ice break off and float in the lagoon, creating a mesmerizing landscape of icy blue, white, and black-streaked icebergs of various sizes and shapes. The vivid blue color of the icebergs, particularly under sunlight, adds to the lagoon’s beauty and allure.

The best way to experience Jökulsárlón is on a Zodiac or Amphibian boat ride . The Zodiac excursion is longer, and because the boat is smaller, you can get much closer to the icebergs than the Amphibian boat. The boat rides are offered from April – October and range in time from 30 minutes – 1 hour and 15 minutes. Boat tours are 6300 ISK – 13900 ISK ($46 – $101 US).

Adjacent to Jökulsárlón is the Diamond Beach. This black volcanic sand beach is strewn with glistening ice chunks and icebergs that have washed ashore from the lagoon. The contrasting colors of the sparkling ice against the black sand make it a photographer’s paradise and a must-visit spot.

You can explore this area on an organized tour or on your own. The drive from Reykjavík will take just under 4 hours one way. On your way to Jökulsárlón, there are quite a few other gorgeous stops that you might want to make that include Reynisfjara Beach and the beautiful Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, along with many others (tours generally make stops along the way too).  

#5 Hike Múlagljúfur Canyon

Múlagljúfur Canyon is one of the most underrated day trips from Reykjavík! It is one of the best trails in Iceland and a must on any  Iceland Ring Road Trip . You can’t beat the stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and the sea. This hike is 2.8 miles round trip and is difficult, but it is well worth it! The trail takes you up the canyon with gorgeous panoramic views. At the end of the trail is a fantastic view of Hangandifoss Falls. Hangandifoss is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, and it pours into the canyon, feeding the river. Looking further down the canyon, you can see a volcano in the distance.

The canyon is located near Jökulsárlón Lagoon and Diamond Beach and is about a 5-hour drive from Reykjavík. To get to Múlagljúfur Canyon trailhead, you will turn off Route 1 and drive down an unmarked gravel road for about 2 miles. This spot is not well marked, so save it on your maps ahead of time.  Recommended by Voyages with Val

#6 Explore the South Coast 

Whether you’re headed to Jökulsárlón or just making a road trip through Iceland’s South Coast, there is so much to see — you could honestly spend multiple days exploring. Along Route 1, you’ll find stunning coastline, black sand beaches, towering cliffs, and picturesque villages. Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and the otherworldly landscape of the Sólheimajökull glacier. 

Exploring the South Coast is one of the best day trips from Reykjavík, and here are some of the best stops to check out:

#7 Reynisfjara Beach

This black sand beach has been honored as one of the most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world, but it’s also incredibly dangerous. The dramatic beach is famous for its dramatic scenery — towering cliffs of hexagonal basalt columns and large basalt sea stacks called Reynisdrangar. According to local folklore, the stacks are said to be trolls who were turned to stone when caught by the rising sun.

A visit to this beach is solely to enjoy the scenery, never to swim, even if you’re an Olympic swimmer. The area is well-known for unpredictable currents (waves up to 120 feet have been measured), including Sneaker Waves, which are larger and stronger waves that can come ashore unexpectedly. Multiple tourist deaths have occurred over the years because they didn’t exercise caution. 

When arriving at the beach, you’ll see a giant yellow sign with a flashing green, yellow, or red light. The colored zones change depending on the weather conditions and tell visitors if it is advisable to continue. It is important to note that the beach is not monitored, so you must manage all safety precautions.  

The Reynisfjara Beach is approximately two and a half hours from Reykjavík via Route 1 and only 10 minutes from the small town of Vik. 

#8 Skógafoss Waterfall

Skógafoss is the prettiest waterfall in Iceland , and that is a bold statement in a country famous for its waterfalls. 

As you walk up to Skógafoss, the 60-meter drop over the cliff is spectacular. To the right of the waterfall is a series of steps taking you to the top for a different perspective. You can watch the water flow over the edge from here. A hiking trail also follows the Skógá River for approximately 8 km (5 miles) one-way and features more stunning scenery peppered with waterfalls. 

The drive time from Reykjavík is about 2 hours and 15 minutes each way. There is no entrance fee, and the parking is free. Conveniently there are also free toilets next to the car park. There are a couple of places to eat in the area; the best is Freya Café in Skogar (they have a few vegan options ).

Depending on the wind, you might want to pack waterproof gear, as the spray from the waterfall can be intense.  Recommended by Kristin from Scotland Less Ex plored

Short on Time? Or Just Can’t Decide? Check out These Popular & Highly Rated Day Trips from Reykjavík!

Golden Circle, Volcano Crater & Blue Lagoon Small Group Tour Snaefellsnes and Kirkjufell Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik South Coast Full Day Tour from Reykjavik

All of these spots are also highlighted below incase you need more information! Also, don’t forget to book your ticket with FlyBu s before you head to Iceland! It’s the most affordable ground transfer option from the airport to Reykjavik.

#9 Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Checking out the Seljalandsfoss waterfall is one of the best things to do in Iceland . The waterfall is part of the river Seljalandsá, which originates underneath the glacier Eyjafjallajökull. The cataract falls from a 60-meter-high cliff and features a wide cave behind the waterfall. There are circular trails that allow you to circle the waterfall and observe it from behind. 

Bring a raincoat to avoid getting completely soaked if you plan to go behind the waterfall! Seljalandsfoss is the most photographed waterfall in Iceland. Use a wide-angle lens to get a full view of the waterfall and cave from behind. 

Seljalandsfoss is located 130 Km from Reykjavik, and you can visit it on a self-driving or join a terrific tour that explores the area, including this gem. Recommended by Travel the World Pages

#10 Gljúfrabúi Waterfall 

If you’re scouting for a secret spot in South Iceland , Gljúfrabúi Waterfall, or “Gljúfrafoss,” is where you need to go. It’s tucked away in a canyon, making it the chill cousin of the famous, nearby Seljalandsfoss. 

The name Gljúfrabúi means “canyon dweller,” and boy, does it live up to that! It’s like this secret hideout surrounded by nature, as the waterfall is hidden behind cliffs and drops down about 40 meters. The mist it kicks up gives it a truly magical vibe.

To get there, you’ll hike a short trail and then wade through a stream to get into the canyon. It’s like your own mini–Indiana Jones adventure. Be ready to get wet, and make sure your shoes have a good grip.

And camera buffs, listen up! This place is a goldmine for amazing shots — make sure you climb up the right side of the waterfall for an epic view of it pouring into the canyon.

Getting to Gljúfrabúi is easy — take Route 1 from Reykjavík, follow signs for Seljalandsfoss, and park there. Gljúfrabúi is a 500-meter walk north of Seljalandsfoss. This place is a jackpot for anyone looking for a serene escape with a dash of adventure. Recommended by   Seek Scandinavia

#11 Check out the DC-3 Plane Wreck

One of the best day trips from Reykjavík is visiting the DC-3 plane wreck in southern Iceland. Located approximately 160 kilometers from Reykjavík, the plane wreck is a captivating destination that attracts visitors worldwide. 

To reach the DC-3 plane wreck, you embark on a scenic road trip from Reykjavík via rental car or with a group tour . The route along the Ring Road (Route 1) takes you through Iceland’s stunning countryside, with breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and lava fields. 

Once you arrive at the Sólheimasandur black sand beach, you’ll need to walk approximately 4 kilometers to reach the plane wreck. The walk offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Iceland’s raw and untouched nature; it truly feels like you’re on another planet. As you approach the site, the eerie sight of the abandoned aircraft against the stark landscape creates a surreal atmosphere, making it a must-see for photography enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

The plane crashed on the beach in 1973, and officials determined removing the aircraft was too much of a hassle. Miraculously, everyone on board survived. The plane has sat on the beach for 50 years! It’s important to note that climbing or touching the wreckage is prohibited to preserve its historical significance and for your safety. Recommended by The Directionally Challenged Traveler

#12 Hike the Sólheimajökull Glacier

Sólheimajökull glacier, located 2 hours from Reykjavík, is an absolute must-visit destination in Iceland. Whether you plan to take a day trip from the city or add it to a comprehensive exploration of the South Coast, this glacier offers an unforgettable experience.

Hiking Sólheimajökull is a unique experience — the stark contrast between the white ice and the black volcanic ash is mesmerizing. As you traverse the glacier, you’ll see awe-inspiring landscapes, including striking ice formations that are constantly changing and deep crevasses where melting glacier water flows beneath you.

For your safety, you should never attempt to hike the glacier alone; you should always go with an experienced guide. There are hiking tours that include a guide and all the necessary equipment (hiking boots, crampons, and a helmet).

Also, take a refillable water bottle with you and enjoy the refreshing coolness of pure glacier water. It’s a refreshing way to connect with nature and savor a unique Iceland delight.

It’s important to note that the Sólheimajökull glacier is facing a concerning reality. This glacier is rapidly shrinking; experts predict it may be gone entirely within a few decades. Seizing the chance to experience this while you still can is crucial. Recommended by Our Vacationing Life 

#13 Explore the Dramatic Landscapes in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula 

For a day trip from Reykjavík lined with stunning landscapes, minus the typical crowds of the Golden Circle, head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula . Located in Iceland’s West, the 90 km long peninsula features only one major town (with 6,500 inhabitants) and is an absolute natural gem.

You won’t want to miss the Snæfellsjökull National Park, which features an active volcano — even Jules Verne was fascinated by it. At the Þúfubjarg cliffs, you can observe various types of birds and also get a first glimpse of the uniquely shaped Lóndrangar cliffs. You can even walk down to the black sand beach near them and admire the cliffs up close.

Next up is Church Mountain, with its specific cone-like shape and beautiful little waterfalls nearby. Capturing both in one frame makes for a stunning shot!

All these natural wonders are located close to the main road. It’s easy to hop out of the car or hike for a few hours. The shortest drive between Stykkishólmur and Reykjavík takes around 2 hours. You can also take a few detours and extend the trip.

If you’d rather not drive, check out this highly-rated day tour from Reykjavík. Recommended by Travel Geekery 

#14 Relax in The Blue Lagoon

One of the best day trips from Reykjavík is a visit to the world-famous Blue Lagoon. In fact, this place is so incredible that it was named one of the 25 “wonders of the world” by National Geographic. 

Here you can bathe in the natural hot spring and spa’s milky blue, mineral-filled waters. Additionally, you’ll love that the Blue Lagoon is a short 45-minute drive from Reykjavík and a 15-minute drive from the airport (there are transportation options available from the airport if you don’t have a car). 

However, you might not know that the Blue Lagoon is not natural. Instead, it was created accidentally by the Svartsengi Power Plant in 1972. And the stunning color of the 102 (F) degrees water is from a combination of sun, silica, algae, silica, and minerals.

Now, depending on the type of ticket you purchase, you can enjoy a wide array of luxury services, like facials and massages.

Just be sure to make a reservation in advance (reservations are required), and time slots fill up quickly.  Recommended by Iceland Trippers

#15 Check out The Lava Falls (Hraunfossar)

Hraunfossar, or “Lava Falls,” is an incredible natural wonder in the west of Iceland. It is a series of waterfalls formed by rivulets streaming out of a lava field into river Hvítá. The spectacular site has been created over time from the slow erosion of volcanic rock, and it is a sight that will take your breath away.

The array of colors created by the mix of rocks, green moss, blue sky, and white rapids make for a truly unique experience. The lava mounds, jagged rocks, and naturally occurring steam vents enhance the landscape and create a dramatic setting.

Hraunfossar is an excellent alternative to add to your itinerary instead of the popular waterfalls on Iceland’s south coast. 

From Reykjavík, it is about an hour and 40 minutes, and there are several car parks nearby. If you don’t have a car, there are day tours that include checking out the Lava Falls.

The falls are open year-round, although some areas may be closed off during periods of extreme weather. Due to the landscape, it is recommended that you wear proper shoes and pack hiking gear .  Recommended by BeyOfTravel

#16 Enjoy the Beauty of Húsafell Canyon (West Iceland)

Located on the Silver Circle in Iceland is the stunning Húsafell Canyon, known for its rugged landscape, hiking trails, and offbeat bathing experiences — a gorgeous place you won’t want to miss.

If you’re interested in a geothermal bath experience, check out the Canyon Baths . It is a unique, private experience; reservations are required. In addition to the baths, there are hiking trails, waterfalls, and a resort. Hotel Húsafell provides accommodation and can offer a private guide and driver to take you to the Canyon or Krauma Baths (the hotel also offers other activities). 

The beauty of Húsafell Canyon is truly breathtaking. As you stand at the bottom of the canyon, you’ll be able to look up and admire its sheer size and beauty while soaking in the warm waters. 

There are several ways to explore Húsafell Canyon. The most popular is following hiking trails that lead through the canyon and around the perimeter. This gives hikers a great view of the canyon walls and allows them to appreciate its beauty from all angles. 

The Langifoss (a two-tiered) waterfall is also located by the Canyon Baths.

Additionally, there are lava-caving tours nearby. From Reykjavík, it is about a 2-hour drive. Roads are accessible by private vehicles and tours. Here is a day tour that includes sightseeing in the Húsafell area.  Recommended by ToSomePlaceNew

#17 Hike the Vatnajokull Glacier

Visiting the Vatnajokull Glacier from Reykjavik is a long day trip, but it’s also one of the most epic things you can do in Iceland . Vatnajokull National Park, where the glacier is located, is about a 4-hour drive from Reykjavik. 

The Vatnajokull glacier covers 8% of Iceland and is the largest in Europe. While hiking the Vatnajokull glacier in Iceland , you’ll have the chance to hike ice crags, admire the blue-ish tinted ice, climb through ice canyons, discover the little caves, fissures, and streams in the ice, and marvel at the massive ice fall that towers over you higher on the glacier. 

Iceland is known as a land of fire and ice. While you can’t control the fire part – as volcanoes erupt when they want to – you should take the chance to experience the ice. The glaciers of Iceland are such a dominant feature of the country and create an otherworldly landscape that you need to explore. 

When you go, bring good hiking boots or rent them from your guide/company. Wear layers as you will alternate from being chilly to warm from the exercise. And if given the chance, take the opportunity to drink the water flowing fresh off the glacier; it’s delicious. Recommended by The Unknown Enthusiast 

#18 Go for a Soak at The Sky Lagoon

Outdoor bathing is a big part of Icelandic culture. Locals love visiting hot springs and heated pools to relax and socialize. Visitors to Iceland shouldn’t miss this activity, and when you’re in Reykjavik, Sky Lagoon isn’t far. Sky Lagoon was created at the edge of land overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and while the lagoon is man-made, it’s heated naturally with geothermal heat from the ground.

Sky Lagoon allows guests to feel like they’re one with nature. You’ll soak in the crystal-clear water with rocks built up around you, helping you detach from the “real world.” Another unique offering at Sky Lagoon is The Ritual. It is a seven-step process that honors the Icelandic heath practice of shocking your body with cold and hot sensations.

There are three different pass options, two include the seven-step Ritual, and one doesn’t. The other main difference is that the Pure Passes have male and female community changing rooms, and the Sky Pass offers guests a co-ed locker room with private changing and bathing rooms.

A few tips include visiting during the off-season or early in the morning to avoid crowds. Summer months and mid-day are peak visiting hours. You’ll also want to book in advance as passes are timed entry and often sell out. You can reach the Sky Lagoon via taxi from Reykjavik city center in about 15 minutes or pre-book the pass with transportation. Recommended by Stuffed Suitcase

#19 Explore the Largest Ice Tunnel in Iceland

If you’re looking for an extra memorable day trip from Reykjavik, consider a tour through the  largest ice tunnel in Iceland ! You can book an Into the Glacier tour from Reykjavik or make the short (less than 2-hour) drive and start your tour from the Húsafell base camp. 

To get to the ice tunnel, you’ll ride in a modified glacier vehicle like a super truck! The ride itself is fantastic and is worth the trip. You’ll also get to stop at Klaki Basecamp for other-worldly pictures before finishing the drive to the tunnel.

Once you finally get to the ice tunnel, your guides will provide crampons for your safety while exploring inside — it is impressive! The tunnel is over 1,800 feet long and over 130 feet underneath the glacier’s surface at the deepest point. Another great thing about this tour is that it’s available year-round!

Even though the tours typically last only 3-4 hours from start to finish, weather and other determining factors can make it last up to 5-6 hours, so this should be your only planned excursion for the day. Make sure to dress appropriately with warm, water-proof layers and insulated hiking boots.  Recommended by Adventures With TuckNae

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

If you’re looking for places to stay that are centrally located, check out these two terrific spots. One note, breakfast is included at The Storm Hotel but isn’t at Eyja Guldsmeden.

Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel

Brautarholt 10, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland 4-star hotel

Storm Hotel

4 Þórunnartún, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland 3-star hotel

Wrap it Up: More Iceland Travel Help

Now that you know all of the best day trips from Reykjavik, you might be curious about what else Iceland has to offer. Don’t miss these helpful guides!

Is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour Worth It? Iceland Vegan Guide: Where to Stay & Eat Around The Country Ultimate Reykjavik Vegan Guide:  Best Restaurants, Bakeries, & More G Adventures Review: Best of Iceland Tour Where to Stay & What To Do on Iceland’s Ring Road Is the Golden Circle Worth Visiting?

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Best Day Tours in Iceland

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Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Small-Group Golden Circle Minibus Tour from Reykjavik with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater

Stunning 3-Hour Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull

Quick Blue Lagoon Shuttle Bus Transfer from Reykjavik

Golden Circle Small Group Minibus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Affordable 35-minute Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik

Affordable 3 Hour Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavík

Beginner-Friendly 3.5-Hour Glacier Walk in Skaftafell on Vatnajokull Glacier

Affordable Blue Lagoon Transportation from Keflavik Airport

Zodiac Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes National Park with Transfer from Reykjavik

The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour

Unforgettable Drysuit Snorkeling in Silfra with Underwater Photos & Transfer from Reykjavik

South Coast Day Tour with Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon with Transfer from Reykjavik

Family-Run Husavík Whale Watching Tour

Glacier Hiking Tour on Solheimajokull

Reykjavik City Card 24 hours with Free Entry to Museums, Galleries, & Geothermal Pools

Afternoon 6 Hour Golden Circle Tour to Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir with Transfer from Reykjavik

The Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group Golden Circle Tour with Kerid Volcanic Crater & Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group 10 Hour South Coast Tour with Waterfalls & Reynisfjara with Transfer from Reykjavik

Golden Circle ​& Snowmobiling Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

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16 best Iceland day tours (from Reykjavik): Landscapes, Northern lights, wildlife…

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning to visit Iceland? Don’t want to drive? That’s fine, there are many Iceland day tours available to you. The thing is to find the right ones for you in a sea of proposals. So here is my own selection of destinations for the best day trips from Reykjavik: to see the scenery, to get off the beaten path, to see the Northern lights or wildlife… Those Iceland Excursions should be memorable! 

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Iceland:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Iceland: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Whale Watching

Fun activity: Swimming in Silfra Fissure

My favorite places to stay:

• Reykjavik: see best rated hotels – e.g. Vintage Boutique Hotel
• Lake Myvatn: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Laxa
• Vik area: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Vik i Myrdal

My top 5 Iceland Day Tours from Reykjavik – Quick overview

If you don’t want to read the whole article and have only a few day to spend in Reykjavik and visit Iceland, below is my selection of 5 excursions worth joining:

• Visiting the Lagoon of Jokulsarlon – it is a long drive but the scenery is fascinating and the icebergs are fantastics – Check out program and book
• Exploring the Snaefellsnes peninsula , often referred to as the Iceland in Miniature – in one day you will see a lot of what makes Iceland fascinating- Check out program and book
• Go hiking in Landmannalaugar, in the Central Highlands – there are no words to describe the landscapes (Summer only)  – Check out program and book
• Chase the Northern lights – go out during night time for a chance to see the Aurora borealis dancing – Check out options
• From May to mid August, if wildlife is you thing, observe the puffins on the coasts of Iceland – Check out program and book

More details and other suggestions after the general info.

Where to stay in Reykjavik

My favorite hotels in Reykjavik center are:

• Luxury:  Black Pearl Apartment Hotel
• Charm:  Reykjavik Konsulat
• Boutique:  Vintage Hotel
• Mid-range:  City Center Hotel
• Apartments:  Rey Apartments
• Guesthouse:  Reykjavik Treasure B&B
• For families:  Odinsve Hotel Apartments

Or see all my suggestions in my article: Where to stay in Reykjavik: best hotels

Iceland Excursions – Pros and Cons

Why choose to visit iceland via day tours from reykjavik.

I know this website is a lot about Road Tripping by yourself to discover the country. I love that way of traveling.

But I am also a fan of organized tours (as long as they are small group tours). I think this is a great worry-free alternative:

• To enjoy the scenery – on an excursion you can just sit back and capture memories, especially with the ever changing magnificent landscapes of Iceland
• To avoid driving  – not everyones enjoy driving… or has a license! Plus, especially in Winter, the Icelandic roads can be tricky. An organized day tour is worry-free
• To learn more –  Most guides are passionate about their country and will be happy to share their knowledge, stories and answer all your questions 
• Not to lose time – If you have only a couple of days…

However you have to be conscious of the limitations:

• You can’t stop whenever you want – although with small group tours there is often more flexibility
• You can’t change plans and stay somewhere if you like a place
• There are sometimes long legs of trip stuck on the minibus

Why Iceland is great for Guided day Tours

Iceland and its capital city Reykjavik are great for excursions because:

• there is a lot to see within a few hours drive
• Reykjavik is not too big, so it does not take hours to collect everyone and get out of the city
• Every 5 minutes you want to say WOW as you see the scenery
• Reykjavik is a charming city to establish your base – see the best rated accommodations

Best Iceland Day Tours for SCENERY

Let’s start with the Iceland day trips from Reykjavik that take you to the most beautiful scenery in the South of the country.

1. Jokulsarlon Day Trip – long one day tour from Reykjavik

• About the day trip

A Jokulsarlon Day Trip From Reykjavik will take you along the beautiful landscapes of the South Coast with black sand beaches, waterfalls and glacier all the way to the Famous Jokulsarlon. One of the best tours in Iceland.

Jokulsarlon is a glacial lagoon where icebergs detach from the glacier and float by you towards the sea via a channel. Some are white, other blue and other are even black. It is fun to just sit there and imagine shapes (I think I saw the titanic thinking lol!)

Across the road, you can walk to Jokulsarlon beach aka Diamond Beach where some icebergs are pushed back on the black sand beach and you can walk right up to them.

• Self Drive Option

Easy Drive on Road 1 but long – Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon: 4h30 – 370km

• Guided Tour Suggestion

In Summer, the days are long, so after enjoying the icebergs, on the return trip you can stop at the 2 main waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. Not many minibus options for this tour. Probably because of the length of the trip and the fact that there are less stops. Please don’t complain about the length of the drive. You are warned. But it is worth it! Tour Length: 14 hours in summer

Check out program and book

• You can sit on any side of the bus as you will come back via the same road.
• However I have  a preference for the Land side of the bus rather than the sea side
• Note: If you are heading to the South Coast of Iceland, considering the driving time you have 2 options. The one that skip most of the first part to head to Jokulsarlon Lagoon or the one that focusses on the first part and stops at Vik. I am sorry to say that you can’t do both on a one day trip, too much to see and too much driving…

2. South Coast Excursion from Reykjavik

See some of the highlights of the first half of the Icelandic South Coast. During the whole drive, the scenery will be breathtaking. And you will stop at: Seljalandsfoss – the waterfall does not look like much from the front but once you walk behind it, it reveals its magical beauty. Loved it! Skogafoss – the 60m waterfall is quite impressive with this straight curtain-like drop. You can get really close at its foot or walk to the platform (500 steps) Reynisfjara – The Ultimate Iceland black sand beach with its sea stacks and interesting geological formations

Easy Drive on road 1- Reykjavik to Vik: 2h15 – 180km

This Iceland Day tour on a comfortable Minibus will have you hit all those wonderful locations. Tour Length: 9 hours Check out program and book

3. Snaefellsnes Peninsula Day Tour Iceland

The Snaefellsnes peninsula is often called ‘Iceland in Miniature’ because many of the geological and landscapes features that make Iceland famous are gathered here at a smaller scale: You have iconic waterfalls at Kirkjufell where the mountains behind seem to emit energy that makes the landscape so beautiful (I know I am sounding crazy now, but this location ha something special!) You have a glacier called Snaefellsjokull – have fun pronouncing it Crazy cliffs of lava rock with arches and pinacles And fjords, small volcanoes…

Good drive – not difficult – Reykjavik to Grundarfjordur on the North Coast of the Peninsula: 2h15 – 170km

A great program for this Iceland Day tour on a comfortable Minibus. With a small group you will be able to see a lot and not waste time. Tour Length: 12 hours

4. Iceland Golden Circle Tours

This is a classic. Not my favorite locations in Iceland but still quite impressive. The Golden Circle tours is done around 3 main stops: Thingvellir National park (a Unesco world heritage site) – with its historical importance and geological significance. You will long fault lines evidence of the movement of the tectonic plates Haukadalur , home of Geysir. However the geyser that you will see erupt every 5 to 8 minutes is called Strokkur. A lot of fun. The Geothermal area also displays fumaroles and bubbling mud pools. Gullfoss , an impressive giant 2 step waterfall. 32m in height, its water is raging in Summer when the glaciers melt

Good drive – not difficult – Reykjavik to Gullfoss: 1h30 – 110km

A minibus tour for a more personalized experience of the most famous Iceland Day Tour. Tour Length: 8 hours Check out program and book

5. Helicopter flight from Reykjavik

The best way to admire the landscapes if often from the sky. I love flying in an helicopter. Sadly I could not fit it in my itinerary. But I was lucky that my flight from Reykjavik to Akureyri was on a clear day, and I could see a little bit of what you could experience with such a tour. The elegant shapes of the fjords, the volcanos and the massive side of the glaciers!!!!

It is quite a budget, but your eyes will sparkle for years I think! Flight time: from 30min to 1h 

Learn more and Book

Need to rent a car in Iceland?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Prefer a  compact car  for the narrow streets in villages
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Best Day Trips from Reykjavik – ACTIVE & ORIGINAL

6. snorkeling in the silfra fissure.

In the Thingvellir National Park (on the Golden circle) are giant fault lines, evidence that the Eurasian and American tectonic plates are moving away. Some of those fissure are filled with water. The most famous is the Silfra Fissure where you can snorkel or dive. After that experience, people report about the clarity of the water and the peacefulness of the place. 

All the equipment is provided with drysuits to keep you warm. Tour Length: Half a day

Learn more and book

If you are on a self drive tour of the Golden Circle, you can book only the Snorkeling experience  without pick-up in Reykjavik.

7. Horse Riding in a Lava Field

Icelandic is also famous for its breed of horses . They are small, with straight profile and wide forehead. Their double coat protect them well against the cold. Apparently even their blood is significantly different.

So if you love riding horses, this is an experience not to be missed. Especially as you will be doing so in quite a surreal landscapes (not the one in my photo of horses below)

Pick up from Reykjavik. 1h30 to 2h riding excursion – Tour Length: Half a day Learn more and Book

8. Snowmobile on a Glacier

Love winter sports? Well even in Summer you can enjoy the large glaciers of Iceland. There is lots of space to enjoy a thrill ride on the snowmobiles. So you could almost feel alone on the Antarctic. This activity takes places on different glacier. For example, Langjökull is the second largest glacier in Europe.

On the way to the glacier admire the famous Gullfoss and see the geyser erupt at Haukadalur. Once at the base camp, learn how to safely operate your snowmobile Enjoy a 1hour ride on the vast expanse of white land Tour Length: 8h

Learn details and book

9. Sea Fishing

Love fishing? Have fun sea fishing in the Icelandic waters with amazing views of the Fjords.

All equipment provided. You can even barbecue your catch right on the boat! Tour length: Half a day

10. Hiking in Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar is one of the most praised landscapes in Iceland. Located in the central highlands, it can only be reached by 4 wheel drive or hiking on the famous Lauvegur trail. In this valley the colorful mountains look surreal, especially if you watch them soaking in the natural hot springs.

Book your pick up from Reykjavik on top of the tour. Once there, you ca enjoy a guided 4h hike to make the most of your time in this unique landscape. At then relax your muscles in one of the natural hot pools. Full day tour.

11. Off Road Fun in Thorsmork

Reaching Thorsmork is quite a 4WD adventure. The isolated valley is cut from the rest by rivers. Those can be powerful when the ice is melting and the crossing becomes quite a thrill. I trusted my driver but it was still a little bit scary! At the end the Thorsmork landscapes is different from the rest of Iceland with a greener area where you can hike. Thorsmork is the “Valley of the Gods”.

On the way enjoy a stop at Seljalandsfoss and the tongue of the glacier with the crazy name (you know the one with the volcano that erupted blocking all air traffic in Europe!)

Tour Length: 10 hours

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

Reykjavik NORTHERN LIGHTS Tours

And here come the Northern Lights.

The dream of many travelers coming to Iceland.

If you are coming in June/July, I am sorry but you have to forget it, not enough night time to get a chance to see them.

To see great Northern Lights you need a combination of:

• Dark night (no moon, being away from source lights)
• High magnetic activity

And then you have to chase them… If there is cloud you can drive further if it is possible to see them somewhere else. This is why doing a tour with expert Night Lights chasers is a good idea.

3 options for you. Don’t be alarm by ratings on those tours, this is always the case for all companies. People are disappointed not seeing the lights and chasing, stopping, waiting in the cold… for sometimes just seeing a faint glimpse.

But this is the reality. I did not see much on my stay but the little I saw was already great 🙂

The classic option of a Reykjavik Northern Lights tour is by bus. You check all the day the forecast, you get picked up, you pray for a clear sky… and with some luck you can admire the dance of colors. If you do not see the Northern Lights then you get another tour for free

Check out option

13. By Boat

A more original option is to chase them by boat. If you don’t get seasick… If you do not see the Northern Lights then you get another tour for free.

Check out options

14. Off Road

With a very small group and a better vehicle, the driver can really take out off the roads to find them. And you won’t waster time waiting for your turn to get out of the bus.

Check this one out

• Bring really warm clothes, hat and gloves
• Think positive

Iceland Day Trips to see WILDLIFE

In season, you can also enjoy wildlife day tours from Reykjavik to see whales or puffins. But remember that those are wild animals, and it cannot be guaranteed that you see whales.

15. Whale Watching

Best times to see whales in Iceland is from April to September.

Your chances will be lower during other months.

Tour Length: 3 hours on boat

CHECK PROGRAM & PRICE

• Bring warm clothing to feel comfortable outside on the boat

16. Puffin Tours

Puffins are amazing little creature. Their colors are vibrant. Don’t forget your binoculars!!!! (check out my guide to choosing binoculars )

1 hour boat tour

Best period is form May to Mid-August.

Summer Iceland Overnight Tours from Reykjavik

Want the chance to see even more?

If you want to spend less time on the road and more time at the attractions, consider doing and Iceland overnight trip from Reykjavik or an Iceland Multiday tour.

Suggestions:

• South Coast 2 day trip

With a South Coast 2 day trip, you can cover a lot with most of the main stops: waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier and Jokulsarlon lagoon (you are saving 4h30 of driving each day by staying overnight) Check out your options

• 3 day Iceland short break

For example for an overview of many different Icelandic scenery and activities, check out this 3 day tour from Reykjavik covering the Golden Circle, Glacier hiking, Skogafoss and finishing with a relaxing time at the Blue Lagoon Check out your options

WINTER  – Iceland Guided Tours

The scenic tours.

• The Scenic Tours listed above are also available in Winter since those roads are cleared. And waterfalls might be partially frozen 
• You can also snorkel in the Silfra fissure in Winter
• However Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork will not be available.

The Ice Cave

The extra interest of visiting Iceland in Winter is to visit an Ice Cave . You know the ones from the crazy pictures:

But be aware that very different types of caves are marketed as “ice caves”. Some do not have this depth and colors, and one is even a man made tunnel… One of the best ones is the Crystal Ice Cave… but it is far, close to Jokulsarlon. 

Caves vary every year, depending in the movements of the glaciers. See options

Staying in Reykjavik – Accommodations

So staying in Reykjavik and taking day trips from there is a great option! You can check my article about  Iceland accommodations  to find suggestions about where to stay. I really enjoyed my charming B&B called  Reykjavik Treasure !

Other great accommodation options in Reykjavik

• HOSTEL – The  Reykjavik City Hostel  has a good rating inside Reykjavik
• CHEAPER – the other option is to stay slightly outside, for example in the  Farm Akurhot Guesthouse – Check for availability and price
• DESIGN – If you like modern design, have a look at the  41- Townhouse hotel !
• APARTMENT – An apartment if you want to stay several days and cook. For example  check Availability and prices for Odinsvé Hotel Apartments
• FAMILY – Have a look at the Old Charm Reykavik Apartments . They have 2 and 3 bedrooms apartments and a decor with a lot of character.  Check availability and latest prices.
• LUXURY – Head downtown in large smart apartments at the  Black Pearl –  Check availability an Prices  
• LUXURY – or get slightly out of the tourist way at  Embassy House , a full house superbly decorated that can host up to 10 people –  Check Availability and price
• or the Choose among the  Best Rated Accommodations in Reykjavik

Where to stay in Iceland?

My favorites:

• Reykjavik , capital city:   see best rated accommodations  – or  my article on where to stay
• Selfoss , between Golden Circle and South Coast: see best rated accommodations
• Vik,  near waterfalls and glaciers:  see best rated accommodations
• Höfn , gateway to the East fjords:  see best rated accommodations
• Egilsstadir , between fjords and North Iceland:  see best rated accommodations
• Reykjahlid , for the wonders of Lake Myvatn:  see best rated accommodations
• Akureyri , capital of the North:  see best rated accommodations
• Grundarfjordur , on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula:  see best rated accommodations

Considering a road trip instead? Check out my eBooks that make planning a trip fun and easy:

Plan your dream trip to Iceland with my guides!

• 8 easy-to-plan maps
• 100+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates 
• Useful planning tips
• 130+ large photos 

• 2 easy-to-plan maps
• 30 stops, 10 detours
• 70+ large photos 

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Reader Interactions

June 15, 2017 at 1:37 PM

Great Information about Iceland. I didn’t visit yet. After going through your blog, I will definitely visit at Iceland and experience all the different tours.

June 15, 2017 at 5:45 PM

Thanks for your comment Nitin. Glad you go inspired!

November 16, 2017 at 8:14 AM

Loved reading about your trip. It has given me ideas of what to do there and how I need to plan my trip.

July 3, 2018 at 12:31 PM

Hello, I arrive Saturday 1 September 2018 at 8am on Holland America Cruise Ship and would be interested to know if there is a group tour I can be included in that is going to Langjokull ice cave and snowmobile and other places of interest en-route. Please inform me of itinerary and price etc. (Sunday I intend taking the Golden Circle Tour.) Regards Theresa

July 3, 2018 at 1:52 PM

Hi Theresa I am sorry but I am not a travel agent. I still had a look and all I can find are tours departing earlier than your arrival. Since it is an 11h day tour. Your only option would be to hire a Superjeep private tour but that will be quite a budget. I wish you wonderful travels!

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Best Day Trips from Reykjavik, Iceland

Last updated: May 2, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 20 Comments

With airlines like Icelandair offering the opportunity to stopover in Iceland as part of a trip from the USA to Europe, we think there’s no better time for a short visit to this stunning country.

With that in mind we’ve put together what we think are some of the best day trips from Reykjavik, for visitors who want to just based themselves in Iceland’s capital city and explore from there.

This means you can find the perfect place to stay in the city, not have to re-pack every day, and then explore the highlights of Iceland every day for as long (or as short!) as you are stopping over.

With the exception of the glacier / ice cave tours, all of the day trips we recommend can be done on your own with a hire car.

If you are looking for a hire car in Iceland, we recommend checking out Northbound here . They focus on Iceland and compare prices across a range of providers. They also give you the option to add on the Iceland specific insurances. Compare prices and book here ..

Of course, the majority of these trips can also be booked via a tour company.

If you decide to use a tour company, we have used and are happy to recommend GetYourGuide , Viator , and Iceland Travel .

We recommend tours from a range of operators in this post that we think are a good fit for each of these Reykjavik day trips. Always remember when comparing tours to check what is and what isn’t included on the tour, so you can understand the value.

For further planning, we’ve also written a number of posts about Iceland , including sharing some of our favourite photography locations in Iceland , our tips for planning a trip to Iceland , and detailed 3 day ,   5 day and  7 day self drive Iceland Itineraries .

If you’re looking for a longer guided trip, see our guide to some of the best multi-day  guided tours of Iceland to give you an idea of what’s available for everything from 2 days two weeks, across a variety of price points.

Finally, as you’re going to be based in Reykjavik don’t forget to spend some time exploring the city itself. There are a number of great museums and other attractions you can see in the city centre.

If you do plan on visiting some of the museums and sights in the city, consider a Reykjavik city card . Available for 1 to 3 days, these city cards offer great value and get you free access to many of the city’s top attractions, as well as free public transport on the city bus services.

Let’s take a look now at our favourite day trips from Reykjavik in Iceland.

Table of Contents:

Day Trips from Reykjavik

1. snaefellsnes peninsula..

Whilst these aren’t in any particular order, I would definitely put a visit to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula near the top of your Iceland wishlist. Situated about a two hour drive to the north-west of the capital, this is a very achievable destination to visit as a day trip from Reykjavik.

Here you will find the incredible and fantastically photogenic Kirkjufell mountain, which sits as the backdrop to the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. This is a unmissable photographic opportunity in Iceland, and made the top of my list of photography locations in Iceland .

There’s more to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula than Kirkjufell though. Other highlights include the incredible Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which can actually be hiked on in the right conditions. There’s the 19th century wooden Búðir Church. There are the Gerðuberg basalt columns – 14 metre high columns that just jut up out of the landscape.   There’s also the opportunity to spot seals at Ytri-Tunga beach.

And there’s lots more – including a landscape that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth, more incredible waterfalls, fantastic golden beaches, the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum where you can try fermented shark meat – the list goes on!

You can easily drive here yourself with a hire car and tour around, and there’s certainly enough to do here to allocate two days if you have the time. Otherwise, there are a number of operators operating tours to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula which leaves from Reykjavik.

For example, take a look at this 10 hour tour to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula , this 11 hour tour , and this tour option which includes a home cooked meal .

2. The Golden Circle

One of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik is the Golden Circle trip, which follows a route to the north east of the city and visits three of Iceland’s most popular attractions, Thingvellir, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysers.

Thingvellir National Park (Icelandic: Þingvellir national park), is a National Park (the first in Iceland in fact) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s interesting for a number of reasons. First, it was the site of Iceland’s first parliament, and meetings were held here as far back ago as 938. There’s a museum you can explore, and a number of sites you can visit on a self-guided walking tour.

Thingvellir is also interesting for its tectonic and volcanic activity, and you can clearly see the action of the continental drift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates here, which has resulted in huge rifts and cracks in the ground.

You can actually go snorkelling here in stunningly clear waters and see the continental divide from a unique perspective. This is one of the more popular activities in Thingvellir, so definitely worth booking in advance . Don’t worry – a dry suit is provided to keep you warm in the freezing waters!

There’s also a beautiful waterfall in Thingvellir, Öxarárfoss , which is worth the short ten-minute walk to visit.

After Thingvellir, the next stop on the Golden Circle tour is Geysir. This geothermal area is home to geysers, bubbling mud posts and steaming landscapes, and is in fact the home of the original “Geysir”, where the English word for geyser comes from.

Finally, your Golden Circle adventure will take you to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls. With an average of almost 5,000 cubic feet of water tumbling over the two stage falls every second, it’s an incredible sight that you are not likely to forget.

As you can see, there’s good reason that the Golden Circle is a popular day excursion from Reykjavik. Again, you can drive yourself (check hire car prices here), or you can take a Golden Circle day tour. All the Golden Circle tours depart from Reykjavik.

There are a number of variants of this popular tour, including a private Golden Circle tour , a Golden Circle tour that includes Kerid Crater  and a Golden Circle Express tour which is a quicker tour.

If you also want to do the Blue Lagoon, there are a number of tours that include the Blue Lagoon with the Golden Circle, such as this one .

For more on the Golden Circle, see our complete guide to visiting the Golden Circle , which has a map, suggested itinerary, and more.

3. The South Coast

Iceland’s South Coast is home to some of Iceland’s most iconic sights. It’s here you’ll find the sixty metre high waterfall you can walk behind (Seljalandsfoss), the absolutely spectacular Skogafoss waterfall, and the beautiful black sand beaches and basalt columns at Reynisfjara, near the picturesque town of Vik.

Continuing beyond Vik you’ll find the unusual Svartifoss Waterfall which tumbles over black columnar rock formations, the Svínafellsjökull Glacier that you can get so close as to almost touch, and the otherworldly Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

It is certainly possible to do the majority of the highlights of south Iceland as listed above as a day trip from Reykjavik, just be prepared for a very long day (it’s about five hours driving each way from one end to the other in a car, not counting any stops!). If you are keen on seeing the highlights of the south coast, then we would suggest trying to stretch it over two days if possible.

Of course, there are group day tours that offer the south coast in one day. We have a number of suggestions for you to consider, depending on your stamina and group size preferences.

First, the year round  South Shore adventure tour. This takes around 10 hours, and covers all the highlights all the way out to Vik, including the main waterfalls and the black sand beach.

In the summer, you can do also a 14 hour tour which travels all the way to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and which includes a boat ride on the lagoon itself, something that isn’t possible in winter.

4. The Blue Lagoon

If all of the exploring has taken it out of you (or just sounds like too much work), then a day trip to the Blue Lagoon might be exactly the cure for you.

Situated relatively close to Iceland’s main airport, this is a popular stopping point for visitors who are arriving or departing Iceland, but it also easily accessible from Reykjavik.

The Lagoon is a large complex, with the main draw of course being the huge, geothermally heated outdoor lagoon itself, which is a beautiful blue colour. Here you can relax all your cares away, enjoy a drink at the swim up bars (the smoothies are excellent!), and enjoy smearing mud on your face.

As well as the lagoon itself, there are spa facilities and on-site restaurants, so you could make a day of it, although we think about half a day would probably work for most people, with the average visit lasting a couple of hours.

Pre-booking your visit is required, with various packages available. We’d recommend the Comfort level as this includes a towel and a drink, which is definitely convenient. You can also arrange transport to the Blue Lagoon as part of the ticket booking, or you can drive yourself.

There are also a number of tour companies that offer transport to the Blue Lagoon , although you still need to book tickets to the Lagoon itself, which you can do online here .

If you really want to have a full day, you can combine a Golden Circle tour with a trip to the Secret Lagoon.  This is a less visited spot than the Blue Lagoon, but will let you combine two adventures (the Golden Circle and a thermal bath) in one full day.

Another more recent hot spring option is the Sky Lagoon, which is much closer to the city centre. This offers a lovely hot spring experience on the edge of the ocean. You can book tickets for that here , and entry with transport here .

One last tip if you’re on a tight budget but still want to experience the wonders of the Icelandic thermal waters: why not visit one of the city pools in Reykjavik instead of the Blue Lagoon?

These have the same geothermally heated water as the Blue Lagoon, but are available at a fraction of the price. Plus, if you pick up a Reykjavík City Card while you’re in the city, these can be visited entirely for free!

5. Reykjavik Itself

We think it’s a shame that so many visitors come to Iceland and spend their time exploring Iceland but not really experiencing Reykjavik – a city which has plenty to offer.

We would definitely recommend that you spend at least half a day, if not a full day, seeing some of the many sights that the city has on offer.

We would definitely recommend taking in Hallgrimskirkja , Iceland’s tallest church and the beautiful Sun Voyager statue.

Then, depending on your interests, you may also want to visit the National Museum of Iceland , The Settlement Exhibition , The Saga Museum , The Árbaer Open Air Museum , to name but a few of the many worthwhile things to do in Reykjavik. There are also numerous shops, bars and restaurants, plus the city itself is picturesque for wandering in.

6. Game of Thrones locations

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last few years, the chances are that you will have heard of the Game of Thrones TV show . What you might not know is that the fantasy land of Westeros, and in particular the snowy scenes shot “north of The Wall”, are actually filmed for the most part in Iceland.

This is excellent news for fans of the show, as it means you can visit many of the key locations from the show as a Reykjavik excursion, including one of the wildling camps and the pass to the Eyrie, both of which were filmed at Thingvellir national park.

For more ideas, see our guide to all the GoT filming locations in Iceland .

7. Into the Glacier

One of our favourite experiences in Iceland was a tour called “Into the Glacier”. This involves driving across Europe’s second highest glacier (Langjokull) on a monster 8 wheeler former NATO missile launch truck, followed by a walk inside the man-made Langjokull ice tunnel.

Even though the weather wasn’t fantastic when we did this, it was still a lot of fun.

In addition, if you do this as a day trip from Reykjavik, the tour also affords you the opportunity to visit other highlights of this less visited area, including the incredible Hraunfossar waterfalls, amd Europe’s largest hot spring area (Deildartunguhver).

Of course, you can also make your own way out here and book the tour with departure from Husafell , should you prefer to travel under your own steam.

It’s worth mentioning that this ice cave is a man made tunnel on the glacier. Whilst this means it can be visited whilst other ice caves cannot, it isn’t quite the same as visiting a natural ice cave. For those, see the entry further on in this guide under ice caves.

8. Northern Lights (autumn to Spring)

If you’re visiting Iceland outside of the summer months, a trip to see the Northern Lights  should definitely be on your list. Ok, so calling this a day trip might be a stretch, as obviously you’re going to want to do this one at night!

Taking a guided tour to see the northern lights is going to give you the best chance to see them, as local guides will have the best idea of the local weather conditions as well as the best spots to see them without light pollution.

Northern Lights viewing is one of the most popular activities in Iceland, and as such there are a wide range of Northern Lights tours departing from Reykjavik, including these on GetYourGuide .

Some we suggest you include in your shortlist are this  small group tour , or this well reviewed and good value coach option .

Obviously, all of these tours are offered subject to the weather, and can be cancelled if conditions are not good. They also usually come with a guarantee that if the tour goes ahead but no northern lights are seen, then you will be issued a free ticket for another attempt. So with that in mind, we highly recommend you book your tour as early in your trip as possible.

If you are planning on trying to see them, we suggest reading through our guide to how to photograph the northern lights , which has tips and ideas for all types of cameras and will ensure you are prepared!

9. Landmannalaugar

The day trip from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar is one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik, and for good reason. Landmannalaugar is an otherworldly landscape of colourful mountains, smoking hillsides and bubbling mud pots, accessed across vast ash covered plains.

Here, you can see the splendour of the Icelandic Highlands, and take a trek through a truly fantastical landscape. The trek takes around an hour to ninety minutes and does require a bit of a climb through lava fields. It’s also really important to dress appropriately – we visited in June and we got snowed on, with temperatures just above freezing!

So layers and waterproof and windproof clothing is essential. See our guide to what to pack for Iceland for some tips.

Landmannalaugar is also relatively tricky to access, as the roads can be hard to drive, require a four wheel drive vehicle, and, depending on the time of year and weather conditions, a number of river crossings.

So whilst you can do this if you rent a four wheel drive vehicle, generally we’d suggest taking either a tour, or a bus. There are regular buses through the summer months out to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik, although these take around four hours each way, so do be prepared for a bit of a trek.

Our preferred option would be do the tour as a dedicated day trip. We did it as a super jeep tour, and whilst a super jeep isn’t strictly necessary, it is a lot of fun.

Various operators run super jeep tours to Landmannalaugar, which stop at different attractions, and so the tour you pick should depend on what you want to see. We’d suggest checking out this super jeep tour to Landmannalaugar as a good starting point.

Don’t forget to bring your swimming clothes – there are free hot tubs at Landmannalaugar if you want to soak a bit after the hike.

10. Þórsmörk (Thorsmork)

Þórsmörk, or the Valley of Thor (what a name!), is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Iceland. In fact, you can hike from here all the way to Landmannalaugar on an epic multi-day hike , which is one of the most popular things to do in the area.

But, we’re talking about day trips here, and Thorsmork is very much worth visiting just for a day of hiking. It’s a beautiful green valley found under the glaciers of Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull, with the 14km hike up Fimmvorduhals volcano being a popular option.

Þórsmörk is one location that you should really consider taking a specific tour to visit. The reason for this is that getting to the Valley of Thor requires some serious river crossings – usually more than 10 – and no hire car in Iceland is ever covered for damage resulting from river crossings.

Alternatively, there are buses that run here, although, as with Landmannalaugar, these do take a while and will eat into your day.

11. Ice Cave Tour

If you are visiting Iceland in winter, one of the most popular things to do is to take a tour of an ice cave. These form inside and underneath glaciers, and the incredible hues of the ice make for a fantastic experience.

Note that this is different to the previously mentioned “into the glacier” tour, as that is a man-made tunnel inside a glacier, whilst these ice tours are of naturally formed ice, which is much clearer.

This is definitely a trip that you need to do as a guided tour. Glaciers are notoriously dangerous places, and you want to be in the hands of an expert when visiting an ice cave to minimise any risks.

There are a number of ice cave tours from Reykjavik such as this one or this one , plus some with departures from other areas that you might find yourself.

For example, there’s this one from Gullfoss to the Langjökull Glacier , this one to the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier from Vik and this one from Skaftafell .

So if you can get yourself to these locations under your own steam, you can save a bit of time and money by booking a tour that leaves from here.

Note, if you aren’t in Iceland in winter, you can get an idea of what an ice cave is like by visiting the Wonders of Iceland attraction at the Perlan in Reykjavik. Here they have a full ice cave recreation display that operates year round, with real ice. It’s very well done (although obviously not the same as the real thing), and is a good alternative.

12. Go Puffin or Whale Watching

Many visitors to Iceland want to see puffins and/or whales, two of the more popular wildlife viewing experience in Iceland.

You might be surprised to learn that you can see both of these on trips that depart from Reykjavik. For example, we took this hour long Puffin trip from Reykjavik and saw numerous puffins, making this an excellent value option for Puffin spotting.

There’s also a longer Whale Watching tour departing from the city centre.

If you are interested in seeing Puffins elsewhere in Iceland, check out our detailed guide to Puffins in Iceland , which has everything you need to know, including the best time of year to come to Iceland for puffin spotting.

13. Visit an Active Volcano

Iceland is known as the land of fire and ice, and volcanic eruptions are a regular occurrence. Some of these are very dramatic, such as the one which caused worldwide travel chaos in 2010, whilst others are a bit more visitor friendly.

In 2021, volcanic activity began on Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula, in the Fagradalsfjall fissure zone, which is found around 25 miles from Reykjavik. In 2022, another volcano in this fissure started erupting, and was given the name Merdalir as this is the name of the valley it is in.

Visiting the sites of these active volcanic eruptions has become a popular activity, although it should be noted that an active volcano site can be a dangerous and unpredictable location.

It’s also a fairly active trip, as you have to do at least a couple of hours of hiking each way on uneven and sometimes steep ground. So you will want to be fully prepared in terms of fitness and also clothing (the weather in Iceland can be fickle at any time of year).

You can take a guided tour to visit the volcano eruption sites like this one , or this one which includes the Blue Lagoon.

And that summarises some of our top suggestions for day trips from Reykjavik! If you’re interested in more day tours from Reykjavik, beyond the list above, then do check out more day tours in Iceland on GetYourGuide , Viator , and Iceland Travel .

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Since you’re going to be basing yourself in Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, you’re going to want somewhere to stay. We’ve stayed at a number of hotels near the city centre which we are happy to recommend, the  Grand Hotel, the  Reyjkavik Natura Icelandair Hotel  and Guesthouse Galtafell .

The latter is the closest to the center and also likely better for those on a tighter budget.

There are however lots more options for accommodation  See more lodging options in Reykjavik on  booking.com here . We recommend Booking.com as they have pretty much everything from hostels to hotels to apartments, and they offer very competitive pricing and usually a great cancellation policy.

We also spent a few days at an apartment rental in the city centre which was a good option.

When to Visit Iceland

Iceland is a country that you can visit year round, but there are various considerations to think about when visiting.

If you choose to visit in winter, you need to be aware that there is much less daylight, and wintry weather has the potential to adversely affect your plans, as it can cause road closures. It will also, obviously, be a lot colder in winter, and you’ll need to plan your Iceland packing list accordingly. Some tours are also not offered in winter.

However, winter does bring advantages. It is a much quieter time of year to visit the country, prices are generally lower, and it’s the only time of year for viewing the northern lights. So if a northern lights experience is on your list, you’ll definitely want to visit in winter.

Summer is a much busier time of year to visit, and offers warmer weather, long hours of daylight, and many more tour options. Prices also tend to be higher, and you’ll definitely want to book your tours and accommodation well in advance  (ideally at least three – six months for accommodation, but the further in advance the better) to get something that suits what you want.

Further Reading to Help you Plan your Trip to Iceland

We will continuously be updating our Iceland content in the coming months, so this list will be updated as we go. In the meantime, here are some great resources to get you started with planning your trip to Iceland, however long you are visiting for.

• First, we’ve written a detailed planning guide for Iceland , which covers everything you need to know for visiting this beautiful country.
• We’ve also put together a list of some of our favourite photography locations in Iceland from trip to give you some ideas of where to aim to get the best photos – always important!
• If you have longer and want to explore more, Jess has put together a detailed post outlining a seven day Iceland itinerary to give you some route ideas for an epic adventure. We also have a guide to spending five days in Iceland  and three days in Iceland , as well as a detailed  Iceland ring road road trip itinerary .
• If you’d prefer to take a multi-day guided group tour, check out our guide to some of the best multi-day  guided tours of Iceland to give you an idea of what’s available for everything from 2 days two weeks, across a variety of price points
• We have a detailed guide to help you decide what to pack for Iceland in Winter
• We also have a guide to finding the Iceland plane crash , if you’re interested in this unique photography opportunity.
• We have a complete guide to visiting the Golden Circle , which has a map, suggested itinerary, and more.
• If you are interested in seeing Puffins in Iceland, check out our detailed guide to Puffins in Iceland , which has everything you need to know!
• We have a detailed guide to visiting the Blue Lagoon
• The weather in Iceland can be fickle – the best website for real-time cloud cover is this one from the Icelandic Met Office .
• On a budget? Here’s a guide to visiting Iceland on a budget to help you make the most of your trip
• Whilst Iceland is a safe country to travel in when it comes to things like crime, the country itself is home to extreme conditions and all sorts of seismic activity. So to stay safe as you go, check out the safetravel Iceland page
• If you’re not sure what camera gear to take with, take a look at both our guide to picking a travel camera , and our personal travel photography gear
• Finally, if you’re visiting in winter, you’ll want to read through my tips for cold weather photography .

And that finishes up our guide to the best day trips you can take from Reykjavik! We think this includes some of Iceland’s best day trips, and we hope you enjoyed it. Is Iceland on your list? Do you have a favourite day trip from Reykjavik you want to share? Let us know in the comments below!

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There are 20 comments on this post

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Louise says

26th January 2022 at 7:55 pm

Hi there, we plan to visit Iceland early March this year, not been before. Once we land on the Friday, we are heading straight for the Golden Circle. Can you advise best route please? And which way to go around the circle? Thanks in advance

Laurence Norah says

28th January 2022 at 5:12 pm

Hi Louise! Sure thing 😀 I cover all that in my detailed guide to the Golden Circle, which you can see here:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/iceland-golden-circle/

Let me know if you still have questions!

Antonio Prikolov says

17th December 2020 at 1:58 pm

You described your trip to Iceland very accurately and I love these places. I remember the first time I got there and this country does not let me go to this day.

18th December 2020 at 12:11 pm

Thanks Antonio!

Rashmi says

4th January 2020 at 11:42 pm

This is so informative. We are planning a 10 nights trip to Iceland in August out of which 5 days I want to stay in Reykjavik as accommodation is free for me there. The remaining 5 days I am torn between doing 2 flying trips to the north and west fjords or just spend 4 days at one location. What would you recommend ?

5th January 2020 at 11:38 am

Both the north of Iceland and the West fjords are beautiful. However, the west fjords is quite unique in Iceland in that it takes a very long time to get anywhere as the roads have to loop around all the inlets. So even what looks like a short distance on the map can take a long time to cover. So I would instead recommend heading up to the north. Four days based somewhere like Lake Myvatn will let you explore a great many sights, so that is probably what I would do.

I hope this helps – let me know if I can be of any more assistance 😀

12th November 2019 at 3:39 am

This is an incredibly helpful blog. We will be on a small ship cruise into the northern arctic in August and have a three day stay in Iceland on the way back. On day one we will unwind at the blue lagoon. On day two we will do the golden circle. Would you recommend on day three the southern coast and an overnight in Vic or the Snaefelnes peninsula Or a different itinerary. Thanks. Steve.

12th November 2019 at 1:21 pm

Thanks very much! So personally I think the south coast would be my preference as the waterfalls along there are beautiful and some of the most well known in Iceland. So that is what I would do 🙂

Have an amazing time and let me know if you have any more questions!

9th April 2019 at 11:21 pm

My trip us next month and I will be doing mostly self driving tours. Did any of these areas where I can go myself absolutely require a 4×4 car? Thank you

10th April 2019 at 2:17 pm

Hey Emily – the only two that you would absolutely need a 4WD for (and even then, I’d probably still take a tour) are the Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork trips. The roads are 4WD only and there are river crossings. Note that no car insurance in Iceland covers river crossings, so we advise doing those two tours on a day trip rather than doing it yourself, as the cost for damaging your rental due to a river crossing is very high.

12th August 2018 at 11:07 am

Hi Laurence and Jessica Norah,

Great blog, one of the most comprehensive I’ve read on Iceland. Myself and my wife are planning a trip (without the kids) in October for 4 days (Fri-Mon). Just wondering if you would recommend anywhere outside of Reykjavik to base ourselves? My thinking was to hire a car, drive out of Reykjavik and make our way back over 3 days but i know the time is short so wanted your opinion. Many thanks Eric

15th August 2018 at 8:42 pm

Hey Eric! Thanks very much 🙂

It does depend on what you want to see of course. With four days, my suggestion would be the Golden Circle and South Coast, and perhaps if you have time the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. So you could do two days in Reykjavik and then two days somewhere like Vik. If you wanted to explore a region like the south coast more thoroughly of course you could do that, and move along slowly. It also depends on your planned transport and how you intend to do the trip, if it’s going to be self-guided with a hire car, or if you are looking more for guided trips, either multi-day or single day. So those decisions will also play a role, as the majority of day trips and group tours depart from Reykjavik.

I hope this helps a bit. If you are planning on heading as far east as the glacier lagoon, we do recommend breaking that journey up into a couple of day at least, just to save on the mammoth drive! We have a lot more Iceland content to help – maybe the five day itinerary would be something you could massage for your purposes?

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/5-day-iceland-itinerary/

Have a great trip!

Mom of three says

30th April 2018 at 7:24 pm

Thanks for the quick reply! I’m torn because while the car is more convenient, I’m not sure if we’d use it that much if we are taking guided day tours. The appeal of the guided tours is that way the person driving isn’t missing out on the great scenery. I really appreciate the insight. Right now I think we’re going to go with an Air BnB and a car but I’ve got to decide soon! Have a great trip.

30th April 2018 at 7:29 pm

My pleasure! Depending on where you find the AirBnB, you might find that local buses serve it, then if you wanted a car you could hire it for a part of your time and do both 😀 Whichever you decide, I’m sure you’ll have a great time!

Momofthree says

30th April 2018 at 6:46 pm

Is it possible to get around Iceland without a car? I wanted to avoid renting a car and just go on guided day trips but we’re also considering AirBnB because I didn’t realize hotels booked up so early and there’s not a lot of choices even though we’re more than two months out. If we do find a hotel in the city, can we depend on shuttles/buses to get around? Or is having a car, just easier, even with the high cost of gas?

Thanks so much for the blog!

30th April 2018 at 6:52 pm

Hey there! Unfortunately at the busier times of year, especially July / August, Iceland does get quite busy – more people than rooms! For sight-seeing, you can certainly do lots of things on a tour, and it’s definitely easier in many ways, although a car will give you a bit more flexibility – so it’s up to you. If your plan is to base yourself in Reykjavik and you find a place to stay (we know how hard it is!) then you won’t need a car if you just want to do day trips. For longer journeys, you can either do multi-day group trips, or you can look into something like the bus passport, which lets you travel around various parts of the country. You can see those here: https://guidetoiceland.is/book-trips-holiday/bus-tours/bus-passports?a=133265 and I have a bit more information on them in my Iceland Planning Guide: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/tips-for-planning-trip-to-iceland/

Good luck – we’ll be in Iceland for most of June, maybe we’ll run into you 😉 Have a great time!

27th April 2018 at 4:10 pm

Hello, Can we book when we get to Iceland instead of in advance? In case our internet isn’t working is there a phone number we can call to book and pay?

28th April 2018 at 10:58 am

For Iceland Travel, yes, you can book when you arrive and they have a phone number on their website: https://www.icelandtravel.is/?ref=findingtheuniverse

Leslie says

20th April 2018 at 12:30 am

This is one of the best travel blogs I have read – and I read a lot of them!!! Very well laid out, with all the right details, descriptions, and pictures. I feel confident planning a trip to Iceland. Thank you so much!

20th April 2018 at 12:55 pm

Thanks very much Leslie – have a wonderful trip to Iceland!

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9 Best Day Trips from Reykjavik

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on May 17, 2024

Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and the hub for most international travelers. If you’re visiting Iceland, you’ll almost certainly fly into Reykjavik . The city is full of incredible things to see and do, including its colorful buildings, the scenic pond called Tjörnin and the impressive art collection in the National Gallery of Iceland.

To truly experience what Iceland has in store, however, you’ll also want to supplement your time with some of the incredible day trips from Reykjavik to the following destinations.

9. Kerid Crater

Less than an hour east of Reykjavik is Kerid Crater. This volcanic crater is filled with a bold, bright blue water, and it looks truly out of this world. You can walk around the entire rim of the crater in under 20 minutes, making this is a quick but unforgettable stop.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also walk down from the rim right into the crater and get up to the edge of the lake. In the winter, you may spot locals walking on the frozen waters of the crater lake, but this is not recommended.

Getting to Kerid Crater

• A popular option with a lot of people who want to visit Kerid Crater is to take a guided day trip around the Golden Circle. This route takes you not only to Kerid Crater and Thingvellir National Park, but also to other breathtaking sights like the Gullfoss Waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area. See prices

8. Skogafoss

Situated north of Vik, Skógafoss is one of the most famous, and most beautiful, of the waterfalls found in Iceland. Skógafoss is located in the village of Skóga, and it is a staggering 55 meters (180 feet) tall

If you’re up for a hike, you can set off along paths through the Skóga River Valley until you reach Skógafoss, and along the way you’ll see another dozen smaller waterfalls. There is also the option of taking a short trail to the top of the falls, which offers incredible perspective on the size of Skógafoss.

Getting to Skogafoss

• If you’re pressed for time, a great way to see as much of the southern part of the country as possible in one day is to take a sightseeing tour. This is a very time-efficient way to visit the waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, see the beautiful black beaches at Vik, and the Solheimajokull and Myrdalsjokull glaciers. See prices

7. Reynisfjara Beach

Also known as the Black Beach, Reynisfjara boasts a shoreline covered in black pebbles and sand. It is also where you’ll find black basalt rock columns that stand out in a truly dramatic fashion. Many people come to Reynisfjara Beach just to take photos and admire the scenery, but it is worth noting that the area is also fantastic for watching birds like puffins and guillemots.

Getting to Reynisfjara Beach

• If you don’t have a car it is. good option to take a sightseeing tour to the beach. You’ll learn a lot about the country’s amazing landscapes and geology, while visiting Reynisfjara Beach and the glaciers of Solheimajokull and Myrdalsjokull – among other sights. See prices

6. Seljalandsfoss

Waterfalls are one of the major draws to Iceland and to the region surrounding Reykjavik, and Seljalandsfoss is one of the most popular of these waterfalls. Located near the town of Seljaland, the waterfall is more than 64 meters (210 feet) tall.

It is possible to walk behind the waterfall so bring a raincoat as you will get wet from the drizzle. While you’re there, take the time to walk a little further away and spot Gljúfrabúi. This is a smaller waterfall, but you can get very close to the water and take some phenomenal photos.

Getting to Seljalandsfoss

• Many people wanting to visit Seljalandsfoss take a tour, which combines the best of southern Iceland’s sights in one unforgettable day trip. Alongside the two stunning waterfalls, visitors also get to explore the Solheimajokull and Myrdalsjokull glaciers. See prices

5. Gullfoss

The name Gullfoss translates into English as Golden Falls, and it is one of the major attractions in South Iceland. While Gullfoss isn’t as tall as some of the other magnificent waterfalls in the area, it is a double waterfall, making it spectacular to behold.

In addition, Gullfoss is fed in part by glacial runoff, which means that is is the highest volume waterfall in Europe. You can walk right up to a plateau that overlooks the waterfalls for amazing views over the water below.

Getting to Gullfoss

• Taking a guided tour around the Golden Circle is an option that is popular with a lot of people, as it enables you to see many of Iceland’s most incredible natural sights in just one day. As well as visiting the glittering Gullfoss Waterfall, the tour also takes you around the beautiful Thingvellir National Park and to Strokkur – an impressive natural hot spring. See prices

4. Whale Watching Tour

Some of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik are whale watching tours. The bay outside of Reykjavik, known as Faxaflói, is home to a large number of whales throughout the year. On an afternoon or full-day trip out to sea, you’re almost guaranteed to spot a handful of minke whales.

Humpback whales are less common, but you can still spot them when conditions are right. If you head to the harbor, you will see a number of tour providers offering the chance to head onto the bay and spot whales in the wild.

Taking a Whale Watching Tour

• From Reykjavik, lots of cruises depart daily to Faxafloi Bay, where you are most likely to catch a glimpse of the majestic creatures. See prices

3. Geysers of Haukadalur

Haukadalur is a valley in Iceland that it located about 90 minutes east of Reykjavik. This destination is best known around the world for being home to some of Iceland’s most spectacular geysers. In fact, the name geyser itself likely comes from Haukadalur and its geyser named Geysir. Although Geysir doesn’t erupt frequently, when it does it is a truly magnificent display.

Just next to Geysir is the geyser named Strokkur. This geyser erupts with amazing frequency, typically every five minutes. In addition to these two amazing geysers, the valley of Haukadalur is packed with geothermal hot springs and mud pots, creating an amazing landscape that you won’t soon forget.

Getting to Haukadalur

• Many people who want to visit the area take a guided tour which combines the geysers of Haukadalur with a trip to Gullfoss Waterfall. In addition to enjoying the spectacular natural sights, your guide will take you to see Pingvellir – the oldest parliament in the world – and to Hveragerdi, a charming little village. See prices

2. Thingvellir National Park

Only 30 minutes by car from the Icelandic capital is Thingvellir National Park, which was a seat of government more than 1,000 years ago. Today, the national park is a sightseeing destination for its landscape as well its history. At Thingvellir National Park, you can set off on a hike through a fault valley, admiring rock formations among the green grass or winter snow.

You can hike right up to Iceland’s first parliament site, although the spot is marked by a sign rather than extensive ruins. To see what the area would have been like in the past, the incredibly modern exhibits at the Visitor’s Center are a must-see part of the park.

Getting to Thingvellir National Park

• A great way to visit Thingvellir National Park is to take a guided tour. Over the course of the day, your knowledgeable guide will take you to see the glittering Gullfoss Waterfall, the spectacular Geysir, and the colorful Kerid Crater – among other sights. With so much included, your tour around the Golden Circle is a fantastic way to see as many of Iceland’s beautiful landscapes as possible in one day. See prices

1. Blue Lagoon

In the south-westernmost part of Iceland is the Blue Lagoon. This destination is arguably the most famous spot in the entire country, and it is absolutely worth a visit if you’re in Iceland. This vast geothermal spa boasts warm waters filled with minerals, and the cold climate of the region means that the water is often covered in a thick layer of steam.

In addition to soaking in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon, you can find a waterfall to admire, or you can soak within a naturally formed cave. If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, there is also a spa where the natural minerals are used in treatments.

Getting to the Blue Lagoon

• Lying around 50 kilometers to the southwest of Reykjavik, visitors wanting to go for a dip in the Blue Lagoon have a number of options available to them. There are regular bus transfers that run from Reykjavik; these depart on the hour from the capital. The bus journey takes about an hour, and there are 12 stops around the city at which you can hop on.
• Many people decide to take a guided tour, as these not only include a visit to the Blue Lagoon, but also take you to Thingvellir National Park, the beautiful Gullfoss Waterfall, and the impressive Kerid Crater. See prices

Map of day trips from Reykjavik

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Home » Travel Guides » Iceland » 15 Best Day Trips from Reykjavik

15 Best Day Trips from Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the little known capital city of seldom explored Iceland.

With thanks to budget airlines and a nationwide investment in tourism Iceland is now firmly on the bucket-lists of travellers the world over.

This enticing and enchanting city has a lot to explore, from Harpa to the Sun Voyager to the Hallgrimskirkja church there is a lot to keep you busy.

A small city compared to many, there is a whole other icy world lying outside Reykjavik that will see you connect with nature in a way you never have before.

Strap on the ice boots and pop on your wooly hat, it’s time to explore the best day trips from Reykjavik.

1. Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon spa is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Europe.

Touted to be one of the most romantic places to spend a day on earth, the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit when in Reykjavik.

These thermal waters lie outside Reykjavik city centre and being so popular makes them very easily accessible.

A trip to the Blue Lagoon is the perfect way to relax and unwind, an ideal way to release the stress and tension that built up during your flight to Iceland.

The Blue Lagoon complex has a spa centre where you can book in for massages and other holistic treatments.

2. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Heading towards Iceland’s south coast and you will discover the hidden gem that is Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

This majestic, powerful waterfall is a prime example of Iceland’s untouched perfection and is not to be missed.

Easily one of the most picturesque, photogenic places you will ever visit, be prepared to be awestruck as you walk besides the powerful aquatic cascades of the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

If you want to have a relaxed day then you can easily spend hours gazing at the beauty of Seljalandsfoss waterfall but if you think you’ll get a bit chilly standing in one place then team a visit to Seljalandsfoss waterfall with Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanos.

3. Skógafoss

Skógafoss is an impressive, powerful waterfall that lies on the Skóga River.

This single drop waterfall sees the river plummet, dramatically 60 m into the earth below and is an impressive 25m wide.

Skógafoss Waterfall is another must-visit when in Iceland and can be coupled with Seljalandsfoss Waterfall or perhaps Sólheimajökull for a more varied day.

Driving to Skógafoss is easy, the roads in Iceland make driving fun.

Skógafoss can be found a 148 km drive from Reykjavik.

There are countless look out spots and beautiful landscapes to pull over and take in along the way.

Don’t rush.

4. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

If you have a sense of adventure about you then a day trip from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is the best decision you’ll make all vacation.

The Jökulsárlón Glacier is the largest glacier in Europe and is simply breathtaking to observe.

This glacial lagoon is covered with floating icebergs that shimmer and shine in the sunlight.

The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is, in fact, the largest and deepest glacier lagoon in Iceland.

A visit to Jökulsárlón sees you leave Reykjavik in the early morning and enjoy a spectacular coastal drive south.

A wonderful opportunity to see all the wonderful scenery Iceland has to enjoy.

5. Þingvellir National Park

Lying to the east of Reykjavik is the incredible Þingvellir National Park.

Steeped in history, Þingvellir National Park holds great historical significance for Iceland people for it was the site of Iceland’s parliament for over eight centuries.

Must-visit historical spots in the park include Þingvellir Church and the ruins of ancient Icelandic shelters.

Those interested in geography will be fascinated by the Almannagjá fault; caused by the pulling apart of two major tectonic plates the Almannagjá fault leaves in its wake jagged, rocky cliffs.

This fault marks the geographical divide between North America and Europe.

You can walk the fault until you meet the magical Öxaráfoss waterfall.

6. Gullfoss

There are thousands of waterfalls in Iceland but none so spectacular as Gullfoss.

A hidden gem no more, Gullfoss features high on the bucket-list of almost every traveller to Iceland.

You will find Gullfoss in the canyon of the Hvítá river, it has two tiers (unlike Skógafoss) and is, in fact, the largest volume waterfall in all of Europe.

For budding photographers Gullfoss is the perfect muse, if you can find an unobstructed view that is.

When the light rain starts to fall a magical rainbow appears over Gullfoss adding to the picture-perfect landscape.

Geysir is one of the most impressive natural phenomenons in the world.

This violently erupting hot spring has to be seen to be believed.

As the Geysir prepares to erupt the ground beneath your feet starts to shake and the temperature rises.

It is quite the sight to behold.

The Strokkur Geyser erupts every few minutes and catching a glimpse of this impressive natural feat is almost 100% guaranteed if you hang around long enough.

If you want a jam-packed day you can incorporate a visit to Gullfoss waterfall into your day trip to Geysir.

8. Whale Watching

Reykjavik shares a coastline with the abundant Atlantic Ocean.

This portion of the coastline is frequently visited by whales, dolphins and porpoise, some of the most impressive marine life on earth.

When in Reykjavik you simply must get out on the water to get up close and personal with the biggest mammals on earth.

Iceland’s income was once heavily dependant on fishing, which in turn depleted the ocean’s resources.

In a change of heart Iceland is now seeing the benefit in sustainable tourism.

A whale watching tour is not only an incredible way to observe wild animals but an innovative way to protect their ecosystem, it’s a win-win in Reykjavik.

Vik is Iceland’s southernmost village and is something of a tourist honeypot.

This delightful Icelandic village has seen a dramatic rise in visitors over the past five years and is thriving.

Home to just 318 people, Vik is Iceland’s final coastal frontier and is a privilege to visit.

Sitting at the base of the Katla volcano, Vik lies in the shadows of the vast Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

When in Vik, be sure to take a moment or two to visit the Vik I Myrdal Church, that dates back to 1929. Being right on the coast means that Vik village has its very own beach, Reynisfjara beach that features black pebbles and jagged offshore formations.

It’s probably too cold for a swim though.

10. Kirkjufjara Beach

Kirkjufjara Beach is a complete hidden gem.

From the beach you can catch a glimpse of the Dyrhólaey arch and the Reynisdrangar stacks.

Kirkjufjara Beach lies to the west of Reynisfjara beach and is practically untouched.

If you’re seeking an off the beaten track location for a day trip from Reykjavik with the opportunity to observe some of the most pristine and rugged coastline in the world then Kirkjufjara Beach provides just that.

This is a raw piece of coastline that should be respected.

Do not visit Kirkjufjara Beach during high tide and heed the advice of the local coastal authorities.

11. Myrdalsjokull

Leave Reykjavik in the early morning and head due east, over the Hellisheidi Pass towards Myrdalsjokull, Iceland’s 4th largest glacier.

This is one of the most impressive glacial landscapes in the world, it is often overlooked by travellers and in that instance is something of a hidden gem.

For those interested in hiking, Myrdalsjokull is the place to explore.

There are a number of reputable companies offering hiking day tours of Myrdalsjokull as it is not-advisable to head out without a guide.

Myrdalsjokull is an accessible hike and requires minimal fitness levels.

12. Langjokull Glacier

The Langjokull Glacier and ice caves are a truly unique experience that make for a wonderful addition to any Icelandic adventure.

You can explore the Langjokull Glacier by foot or by snowmobile, even raft down the Hvita River to the caves entrance.

The Langjokull Caves are man-made but totally breathtaking, the Langjokull Glacier itself is, of course, 100% natural.

The Into The Glacier experience is like nothing else on earth and a guided tour of the complex sees you learn about the cultural and geographic significance of this natural wonder to the Icelandic people and the wider world.

13. Kerid Crater

The Kerid Crater is one of Iceland’s picture postcard landmarks and is often considered the highlight of the Golden Circle tour.

Kerid Crater is a huge volcanic crater that sits in the Grimsnes region of southern Iceland.

From season to season the vegetation that surrounds the Kerid Crater changes from vibrant hues of red and pink to lush, jungly greens.

The water too seems to change colour with the seasons and sunlight and in the winter months even freezes over.

The Kerid Crater is a must-visit during your trip to Iceland.

14. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a truly magical area of Iceland that makes for the perfect day trip for geography gurus and practicing photographers.

Along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula you will find some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is home to countless quaint fishing villages such as Arnarstapi and Hellnar.

During a day drive around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula you’ll have the opportunity to observe the incredible volcanic craters of Kirkjufell and Ljósufjöll and the magnificent Snæfellsjökull itself.

Be sure to schedule time to visit the seal colony at Ytri Tunga to snap some wonderful wildlife photos.

15. Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar is one of Iceland’s more raw and rugged landscapes that is picturesque and beautiful in its own right.

Landmannalaugar is known affectionately as the pearl of Iceland’s Highlands and indeed it is.

Mt Hekla is not to be missed for it is Iceland’s most active volcano.

There is nothing quite like standing at the foot of an active volcano and feeling the heat emanate from the rocks beneath you.

The Laugahraun lava field features vibrant, colourful rhyolite mountains contrasted beautifully by the jet-black lava field below.

A visit to the Landmannalaugar geothermal pools is the perfect way to round off a day trip from Reykjavik before returning to the city.

15 Best Day Trips from Reykjavik:

• Blue Lagoon
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Þingvellir National Park
• Whale Watching
• Kirkjufjara Beach
• Myrdalsjokull
• Langjokull Glacier
• Kerid Crater
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Landmannalaugar

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Meditation, Spirituality and Conscious Living

16 Adventurous Road Trips in Iceland

By David Foley Leave a Comment

Iceland’s rugged landscapes and scenic routes make it the perfect destination for an unforgettable road trip. From cascading waterfalls to vast lava fields, every turn offers a new adventure. Whether you’re exploring the famous Ring Road or venturing off the beaten path, Iceland’s natural beauty is sure to captivate. Pack your bags and get ready for the ultimate road trip experience in the land of fire and ice.

The Ring Road (Route 1)

The Ring Road is Iceland’s most iconic road trip, circling the entire island with a length of about 1,332 kilometers (828 miles). It takes you through a variety of landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, fjords, and coastal cliffs. Along the way, you’ll pass by the famous Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the Vatnajökull glacier, and the charming town of Akureyri. This road trip is perfect for those wanting to experience a little bit of everything Iceland has to offer.

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a classic Icelandic road trip, spanning approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles). It includes three of Iceland’s most famous attractions: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. The trip can be completed in a day, but you’ll want to take your time to enjoy the dramatic landscapes and historical sites. It’s an ideal route for first-time visitors looking to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula road trip covers around 90 kilometers (56 miles) of stunning coastal scenery. Often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature,” this route offers a bit of everything, from volcanic craters and black sand beaches to charming fishing villages. Highlights include the Snæfellsjökull glacier, Kirkjufell mountain, and the dramatic cliffs of Arnarstapi. This road trip is perfect for a day or two of exploring the diverse beauty of the peninsula.

The Westfjords road trip is one of Iceland’s most remote and rewarding journeys, spanning about 1,000 kilometers (621 miles). The region is known for its dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and quiet, off-the-beaten-path charm. Must-see spots include the breathtaking Dynjandi waterfall, the bird cliffs of Látrabjarg, and the relaxing hot springs at Reykjafjarðarlaug. This route is perfect for those seeking solitude and untouched natural beauty.

South Coast

The South Coast road trip is a 350-kilometer (217-mile) journey along one of Iceland’s most popular routes. You’ll pass by some of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks, including the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, the majestic Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, and the glacial lagoon Jökulsárlón. The route is packed with stunning scenery, making it ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike.

East Fjords

The East Fjords road trip covers approximately 400 kilometers (249 miles) of stunning coastal landscapes. This lesser-known route offers breathtaking views of rugged mountains, serene fjords, and charming fishing villages. Highlights include the picturesque town of Seyðisfjörður, the Hengifoss waterfall, and the remote Vestrahorn mountain. This trip is perfect for those who want to explore a quieter, less touristy side of Iceland.

Highlands (F-Roads)

The Icelandic Highlands are a true adventurer’s paradise, with rough, unpaved F-roads stretching for hundreds of kilometers. This road trip takes you through the heart of Iceland’s wilderness, where you’ll encounter vast lava fields, glacial rivers, and remote mountain ranges. Key attractions include the geothermal area of Landmannalaugar, the stunning Askja caldera, and the wild beauty of the Kjölur route. A 4×4 vehicle is essential for this rugged journey, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

Reykjanes Peninsula

The Reykjanes Peninsula road trip spans around 180 kilometers (112 miles) of geothermal wonders and rugged coastal scenery. This lesser-explored route is home to the famous Blue Lagoon, the dramatic Gunnuhver geothermal area, and the Reykjanesviti lighthouse. You’ll also pass by the Bridge Between Continents, where you can stand between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. This route is perfect for a day trip filled with natural beauty and geological marvels.

Þórsmörk Valley

The road trip to Þórsmörk Valley is a 150-kilometer (93-mile) adventure into one of Iceland’s most scenic and remote areas. The journey takes you through rugged landscapes, crossing glacial rivers and passing by towering mountains. Þórsmörk itself is a hiker’s paradise, with lush valleys, vibrant green moss, and stunning views of nearby glaciers. This route is ideal for those looking to combine a road trip with some unforgettable hiking.

Lava Center to Hekla Volcano

This road trip covers about 100 kilometers (62 miles), taking you from the Lava Center in Hvolsvöllur to the base of the Hekla volcano. The journey offers a deep dive into Iceland’s volcanic history, with stops at the Lava Center museum and the Hekla volcano itself. Along the way, you’ll see vast lava fields, geothermal hotspots, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. This trip is perfect for those interested in Iceland’s fiery underbelly.

Arctic Coast Way

The Arctic Coast Way is a 900-kilometer (559-mile) road trip along Iceland’s northern coastline. This scenic route takes you through picturesque fishing villages, rugged coastlines, and the remote beauty of the Arctic Circle. Highlights include the Húsavík whale-watching town, the volcanic landscapes of Mývatn, and the stunning Dettifoss waterfall. This trip is perfect for those wanting to explore Iceland’s wild and untamed northern reaches.

Vatnsnes Peninsula

The Vatnsnes Peninsula road trip is a 90-kilometer (56-mile) journey along one of Iceland’s lesser-known coastal routes. The peninsula is famous for its wildlife, including one of Iceland’s largest seal colonies at Hvítserkur rock formation. You’ll also pass by the Borgarvirki fortress and the historic farmstead at Glaumbær. This road trip is ideal for those looking to experience Iceland’s rich history and unique wildlife.

Laugavegur Trail (Support Route)

The Laugavegur Trail road trip is about 55 kilometers (34 miles) and follows the support route for one of Iceland’s most famous hiking trails. Although the main attraction is the hike itself, the drive offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and geothermal areas. The journey ends at Landmannalaugar, where you can soak in natural hot springs after your adventure. This trip is perfect for those who want to combine driving with a bit of trekking.

Northern Lights Route

This road trip is a flexible journey that can span anywhere from 100 to 400 kilometers (62 to 249 miles) depending on your starting point and how much you wish to explore. The goal is to chase the Northern Lights, with key viewing spots including the areas around Akureyri, Mývatn, and Þingvellir National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass by serene landscapes and quiet towns, perfect for capturing the aurora in all its glory. This trip is best undertaken in winter, with clear skies and dark nights.

Hvalfjörður Fjord

The Hvalfjörður Fjord road trip is a 60-kilometer (37-mile) scenic drive along a beautiful fjord just north of Reykjavik. This quiet route offers stunning views of the fjord, mountains, and waterfalls, including the hidden gem Glymur, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall. The drive is peaceful and less trafficked, making it ideal for a relaxing day trip close to the capital. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Reykjavik without venturing too far.

Vatnajökull Glacier Drive

The Vatnajökull Glacier Drive is about 300 kilometers (186 miles) and takes you along the southern edge of Europe’s largest glacier. The route offers breathtaking views of the glacier itself, as well as stops at the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and the Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash ashore. You’ll also pass by several picturesque villages and the Skaftafell National Park, home to some of Iceland’s best hiking trails. This road trip is perfect for those wanting to explore Iceland’s icy landscapes.

This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos .

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A Weekend Guide To Reykjavik, Iceland: Where To Eat, Sleep & Play

Iceland is in a league of its own on the travel bucket list. Known as the island of fire and ice, Iceland has a strong reputation for its idyllic landscapes — boasting active volcanoes, glistening waterfalls, deep canyons and cliffs, and frigid glaciers. Over 10% of the island is covered by glaciers, making it no surprise that Iceland was the last place on Earth to be settled by humans. Because of this, it only makes sense for over half of Iceland’s population – which is only a mere 382,000 people – to live in the country’s capital of Reykjavík.

Up until 2019, it was quite expensive to even get to Reykjavík from the United States. Flying over the Northern part of the Atlantic Ocean to the northernmost capital in the world came with a hefty price ticket, making it less accessible for any traveler on a budget . That was the case until PLAY airlines leveled the playing field , offering streamlined, no-frills service between Iceland, North America, and Europe.

Having hit many of my dream destinations already, I recently decided it was finally time to check the island of fire and ice off my travel bucketlist once and for all, staying on budget with PLAY airlines and giving myself three days to explore Reykjavík and its geographical day-tripping landscapes. What I found was, above all the natural wonder, some of the nicest people I’ve come across throughout my global travels. Whether it’s due to the awe-striking Aurora Borealis seen in the night sky for over half the year, the amazing food scene, or the ability to see some of the world’s most insane geographical happenings just hours away from the capital, the people you meet are pretty damn warm.

Scroll down to read my three-day guide on where to eat, sleep, and adventure in Reykjavík. Three days may seem like a short time to explore the city and island, but that’s all the time I had and, well, as you’ll see: I was able to fit a lot in.

PART 1 – Where To Eat

Although Reykjavik only hosts a population of roughly 100,000 people, the food scene is incredibly impressive . Not surprisingly, fresh fish and seafood are abundant. Icelanders also love their lamb, which isn’t necessarily my favorite, to be honest. If you happened to click this with the thought: “Gee, I wonder what she thought of all the lamb dishes?” this might not be the right review for you.

For breakfast, I recommend finding a hotel or hostel that offers complimentary breakfast. Because food is expensive in Iceland, this helps cut your costs.

Since I was out exploring the city each day, I grabbed lunch to-go in the mornings before my adventures from the local 24-hour convenience store, 10-11 . It’s basically the Iceland version of 7-11. Don’t let that fool you though! I would never subject myself to any of the pre-made foods in a 7-11 in the United States. But in Iceland what you’ll find is a great selection of freshly made wraps and sandwiches to choose from.

If you have a sweet tooth like me, walking down the candy aisle was very fun! I definitely tried quite a few new candy bars that I’ve never seen before, like the Yankie. Nothing like treating yourself to an Icelandic Milky Way while hiking a glacier!

For dinner, I was fortunate to get a table at three spectacular restaurants in downtown.

Héðinn Kitchen gave me my first taste of what Reykjavik has to offer. Located in what was a previous steelworks factory, Héðinn hosts a beautiful, low-lit atmosphere to warm your bones from the chills of this North Atlantic city. I graciously ordered the Héðinn Adventure Trip, a five-course meal based on what the chef wants to make and the seasonal ingredients available.

Some notable standouts:

• Salmon Two Ways: I loved the soft bread complemented with the elderflower pickled cucumber, dill sauce, salmon and roe.
• Shrimp & Lobster Soup: Not only was this dish delicious to eat, but it was very fun to have the chef come over and pour the smoked buttermilk broth over the steamed bites of shrimp and lobster.
• Braised Porkbelly: They initially said that the lamb came with the five-course meal but they allowed me to swap this in instead. What a treat! The peanut breadcrumb finish was the perfect touch to the sauce and flavor of the pork. It came atop butternut squash which had a great buttery flavor to offset the salty pork which I loved.
• Date Cake: I wasn’t sure what was better, the five-spiced date cake with Irish whiskey cream or the homemade vanilla ice cream that came with it. I was so fun but made sure to eat this all.

Anna Jóna was a completely different experience. As soon as you step inside, you’re transported to a French Barbie dining scene where Polo and Pan play over the speakers and you sip bubbles overlooking the harbor through its rounded corner windows.

What I noticed was this place was one of the first restaurants in the city that didn’t offer any chicken dishes. Not necessarily a bad thing. With the plates being somewhat small, the restaurant encourages you to order three plates for a “full meal” which I happily abided by.

Some highlights:

• Baked Celeriac: I loved the flavor of this cold dish with the hazelnuts, pickled rutabaga, and herb oil. It was delicious but somewhat hard to eat since obtaining a bite with everything on it was damn near impossible.
• Kale Salad & Sweet Potato Gnocchi: The kale salad claimed to come with capers but they’re hardly noticeable with the flavors of the raisins. The sweet potato gnocchi was overwhelmingly delicious with the accompaniment of the wild oyster mushrooms.
• Sautéed Monkfish: The first words that came out of my mouth were “Oh my God.” This came so buttery and thick. The “butter blanc” sauce poured over fresh at your table was astounding and perfectly complemented with the citrus hint.
• Homemade Macarons: Would it be a true French dining experience without some homemade macarons? I was beyond full but loved taking these back to my hotel room to indulge at a later hour of the evening.

Then there was OTO . I’ve been dreaming of this place ever since I went. There’s a reason why this made the Spring Travel Hot List : it is seriously one of the best food experiences I’ve ever had in my life. They also play a lot of Khruangbin, which I’m definitely not complaining about.

Derived from “Kyoto,” OTO has made a lot of noise recently in Reykjavik’s bustling food scene. Led by award-winning Icelandic chef Sigurður Laufdal, OTO combines the flavors of Japan and Italy for what they call “Japanese Italian.” The burger-joint-turned-upscale-eatery offers a lively and energetic atmosphere to take your tastebuds on a culinary journey. The menu is big enough to accommodate just about any specific craving, yet well-curated to ensure each dish is thoroughly perfected. You might as well order the tasting menu if you’re lucky enough to secure a table here, which you won’t be able to without a weeks-in-advance reservation.

If you’re going to Reykjavik, you’ll want to be in the middle of the action. What better place than having the front door of your hotel leading you out to Laugavegur (aka Main Street).

With that said, I found Center Hotels Plaza to be the perfect place to rest my head at night. Slap bang in the middle of downtown Reykjavik, Center Hotels Plaza overlooks the city’s oldest square and main street, allowing you the ultimate freedom to explore all of what this city has to offer. Seriously, you’ll be in walking distance to some of the best bars, restaurants, shops, and must-see stops in Reykjavik.

As Center Hotels’ largest hotel, Center Plaza offers a broad choice of 200 rooms to maximize your weekend stay in Reykjavik. Spanning eight floors, you’ll find a selection of standard single, standard double, standard city view, superior double, and of course top floor executive double rooms. Every room comes with the basics: a flat screen TV, free wifi, a hairdryer, and towels.

If they have an executive double room on the eighth floor do not hesitate to book it. While the majority of standard hotels don’t even let you open a window, the eighth-floor rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to the private rooftop balcony only available to eighth-floor guests. What a freaking view of the city! If Reykjavik wasn’t so rainy I would’ve spent more time out there.

While you do have your own room, this hotel seemed more like a hostel than a hotel. You enter a small – but stylish – lobby where the side wall of the check-in counter doubles as the Plaza Bar. Onsite you’ll find three meeting rooms, comfortable sitting and co-working spaces in the lobby, and a dining area that includes complimentary breakfast in the morning. I don’t know if it’s just me, but European breakfast just hits different than in the United States.

If you’re looking for luxury, this isn’t the place. But it’s exactly what you need to rest your head at night after adventuring the island of fire and ice all day.

Part III – Where To Play

Iceland is an island of adventure. It’s truly unlike any other place on Earth. Sleeping in isn’t on the vacation itinerary. Was it hard to wake up in the morning with the cold weather in the winter? Yes. But you’ll probably be overruled with excitement to wake up before the hint of dawn to see the beauty of what Iceland and Reykjavik has to offer. If you’re only working with three days to see and explore Reykjavik, make sure you maximize your time.

Visit The Sun Voyager & Harpa Concert Hall

This is a famous statue in Reykjavik. Designed in the mid-1980s to commemorate the bicentenary of the city’s constitution, it’s great to snap a photo here in the day or night. It looks like a Viking ship, honoring Iceland’s history and seafaring tradition. It’s easy to walk to if you have dinner at Héðinn Kitchen! Across the street, you’ll see the illuminating glass of Harpa, one of the country’s largest music venues.

Take A Walk Down Laugavegur Street

Laugavegur is the main shopping street and one of the oldest streets in Reykjavík, renowned for its boutiques, restaurants, and bars. It’s also right outside Center Hotels Plaza, making this one of the easiest things to do while on your trip.

Some notable places included:

• The Irishman Pub : Spin the wheel of fortune here for 2500 ISK (approximately USD 18) to try to win six draft beers, a round of shots, and more.
• Hús máls og menningar : A bookstore meets late-night music venue. Only Iceland would hold something of a dream like this on its main street. This place was packed to the brim on a Wednesday night, and for good reason. The band played rocked-out versions of popular pop and rock songs but its more of the aesthetic that really brings it together.
• Hallgrimskirkja : One of the most famous churches in the city, and Iceland’s tallest church at 243 feet high. I didn’t pay to go in the tower, but taking photos outside the church and within the chapel was a great way to see the bulk of this.
• iurie | fine art : You may not be able to see all of Iceland in one weekend in Reykjavik, but you can surely see it here. Photographer Iurie Belegurschi celebrates the country’s magnificent natural wonders through jaw-dropping photos, while also sparking global action to fight the climate crisis, which is also captured behind his lens.

Get Curious At The Icelandic Phallological Museum

Come one, come all to the worldʹs only genuine penis museum. It’s truly nothing you’ve seen before, that is of course unless you’ve seen hundreds of phallic specimens at once (no judgment here). I ended up taking my time and reading most the information presented in the museum, which took a little less than an hour.

Set Out On A Northern Lights Cruise

One of the main reasons I wanted to go to Iceland was to see the Aurora Borealis. I loved going out on the water with Elding for a chilly but thrilling evening of looking for the colors to dance over the water. What I appreciated about Elding is that if you have an evening booked and it’s cloudy, they will still take you out on the water. If the lights fail to make an appearance, you are free to go as many times as you want within two years to see them, for free. Since they operate most months of the year from September through mid-April, this is a great deal.

I was only in Iceland for three nights and each night was cloudy, but on the last night I decided to get on the boat and I was able to see a light green streak in the sky with my naked eye right in front of a breathtaking mountain view within Faxaflói Bay.

It was an overall peaceful experience (as long as you dress warm for it) and I loved being rocked by the ocean waves to see the stars and colors in the sky. It’s also within walking distance to Center Hotels Plaza.

Hike A 700-Year-Old Glacier & See Mystical Waterfalls

Landing on a glacier in Alaska was amazing . Hiking up a glacier in Iceland was completely out of this world. It was hands down the most epic single-day adventure of my life.

Arctic Adventures’ South Coast, Waterfalls & Glacier Hike tour is a full-day commitment. It’s a 12-hour journey, but the amount of waterfalls and epic scenery you’ll see throughout the day is worth it. Make sure you bring plenty of warm and waterproof layers because you will get wet.

You start the day getting picked up at your nearest bus stop pickup location at 8 am. For me, it was at stop #1 Ráðhúsið/City Hall, which was only a three-minute walk from Center Hotels Plaza. You’ll get on a comfortable bus equipped with heat and WiFi and set off to the Southern tip of the island. Watching out the window seeing the terrain quickly turn to rocky and icy tundra was quite cool (this of course depends on the season you go). The views driving through the Viking farm towns overlooking Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla volcanoes are a sight to behold and great way to start your morning.

After an hour or so of driving, you’ll first step out of the bus and gawk at the 180-foot-high Skógafoss Waterfall. One of the best photo opportunities of the whole trip is here. From there, you head to Reynisfjara to see the famous black sand beach and basalt cavern. When I went, it was very windy and sleeting quite heavily — so I didn’t walk the beach as it can get very dangerous. Plus, at this point, I really just wanted to get warm and eat my lunch inside the little cafe they have here.

Then the real fun begins. Just a couple of minutes down the road, you’ll get geared up for one of the most epic hikes you’ll embark on at Sólheimajökulll Glacier. You’ll want to make sure you have waterproof boots with ankle support for this, as you’ll need them to secure the crampons to walk onto the glacier. With your helmet secured and ice pick in hand, you’re guided up through glacier walls, eventually reaching the top. The views here were absolutely insane. To elevate this experience, I highly recommend getting Francesco as your guide if you’re looking for someone who is knowledgeable but extremely personable and funny.

En total, you spend around three hours getting fitted for your gear and hiking up and back.

I was absolutely exhausted after the hike but you end the day with a peaceful sighting of Seljalandsfoss waterfall. The sun was shining at its peak and it was nice to walk alone and find some solitude in front of the waterfall and the nearby streams away from the crowd here.

Snorkel & Swim Between Two Continents

When I heard news that I was doing this, I was nervous. Going snorkeling in Iceland sounds like a recipe for frostbite. I’m not going to lie, it was really cold. But there’s a reason why this is one of the most sought-after activities and deemed one of the world’s top ten dive sites.

After a full day of exploring waterfalls and hiking a glacier, I was very happy to see that my pickup time wasn’t until noon. In contrast to the glacier adventure, Arctic Adventures takes you Northeast to Thingvellir National Park to snorkel in the Silfra Fissure . It takes a decent amount of time for the guide to get you fully clothed and geared up for this, especially in the winter. If you are sensitive to cold water, it will be an adventure in itself. Once you get yourself in the water though, you completely forget about how cold you may be. Looking as far as 300 feet below you, the water here is some of the clearest in the world. You’ll float atop lava and volcanic canyons that have been moving between the tectonic plates of North American and Eurasian continents for thousands of years. The energy transmitted here is palpable and I fully felt in awe of swimming in between two continents, an activity you can’t do anywhere else in the world.

As amazing as it was, the freezing cold water – which stays the same temperature even in the summer months – made my lips swell up and my fingers go completely numb. Though I’m glad I did it, I wouldn’t say I would do it again.

• Nature , News

Volcanic Smog and Smoke Across Southwest Iceland

By Erik Pomrenke

• August 27, 2024

Volcanic smog and air pollution from brush fires can be detected across much of Southwest Iceland today, including the capital region. The Met Office recommends the elderly, children, and those with preexisting conditions to limit time outdoors today.

Much of the capital region is shrouded in a bluish haze today, thanks to vog (smog containing volcanic dust and gas) and smoke from the brush fires around the eruption site.

In a statement to RÚV, Jóhanna Malen Skúladóttir, a natural hazard specialist at the Met Office, said that the forecast shows the gas pollution mostly drifting westward towards the Svartsengi geothermal power plant and parts of the Reykjanes peninsula, particularly towards Hafnir, which is on the west coast.

Winds are expected to shift later in the day, directing more of the pollution southward towards the town of Grindavík.

The Met Office reports that volcanic activity has remained steady throughout the night. Notably, the current eruption is the strongest yet in the series that began in the Sundhnúkagígar volcanic crater rows.

Though the haze is visible to the eye, the Met Office emphasizes that it’s not dangerous in small concentrations. Nevertheless, those who are sensitive to air quality should keep their windows closed and stay indoors if possible.

Monitor the air quality live here.

Read more at the Met Office.

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