most famous places to visit in iceland

12 top places to visit in Iceland in 2024

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Iceland has lots to offer – here's our 12 favorite places to visit © evenfh / Shutterstock

Iceland appears on the must-do lists of many travelers – its charming cities and towns, other-worldly landscapes and astronomical phenomena keep the crowds coming back for more every year.

But how do you choose the highlights of your trip in a country packed with so many of them ? Don't worry, we've picked twelve incredible places, some of which are on the beaten path and some of which are not, but all of which might surprise you. Here are our favorite places to visit in Iceland  in 2024.

1. Mosfellsbær

Best for a quiet escape near Reykjavík

Reykjavík’s friendly rural neighbor is Mosfellsbær . Its biggest attractions are the small mountains that surround the town, including Úlfarsfell, Mosfell, Helgafell and Reykjafell – all great for short hikes. Lake Hafravatn is a gem that locals flock to for swimming and kayaking fun. Time your visit to coincide with the popular vegetable market that carries the produce of local farmers, open every Saturday in late summer in the valley.

The valley is also host to Gljúfrasteinn , a museum dedicated to Nobel Prize laureate Halldór Laxness, and Laxnes farm, which offers horseback riding tours. Álafosskvos is a tiny art and design village with a long-standing yarn store and local craft stores full of beautifully made items you'll want to bring home.

Planning tip: You can visit Mosfellsbær year-round. Þingvellir National Park is a short drive away – avoid the crowds by visiting between September and May .

Best base on the Golden Circle

In rural South Iceland lies Flúðir, best known for its mushroom greenhouse. If mushrooms are your thing, the greenhouse’s bistro offers all things funghi-related. Continue your gastronomic adventure and try authentic Ethiopian food at Minilik . Nearby is the Secret Lagoon , known locally as Gamla Laugin, and Hrunalaug , a small natural pool with stacked stone walls in the peaceful countryside. Flúðir is on the Golden Circle with some of the country’s best-known attractions within reach – it’s the perfect base for exploring the region.

Planning tip: It’s best not to visit Flúðir in the summer. It's the height of the tourist season, and spring and autumn are more enjoyable.

3. Stokkseyri

Best kayaking tours near Reykjavík

This charming South Coast village attracts foodies from far and wide to its seafood restaurant Fjöruborðið  – the lobster is especially popular. Kayaking in its narrow channels is a calm and fun activity, and the neighboring village of Eyrarbakki has beautifully restored timber houses and a heritage museum in a home that seems frozen in time. Nearby is Raufarhólshellir , one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland.

Planning tip: You can visit Stokkseyri and engage in most of the activities year-round, but service hours may change in winter, and kayaking depends on the weather.

Best base for glacial tours

In the kingdom of Vatnajökull , harbor town Höfn welcomes you with its lobster restaurants and stunning glacial views. This is a great base for exploring Europe’s largest glacier, from Jökulsárlón and other glacial lagoons with their floating icebergs to glacial hikes, snowmobile tours and ever-changing ice caves. Among local tour operators is the family-run company Glacier Journey .

Planning tip: You can visit year-round, but the ice-caving season is roughly from November through March. Glacial hikes are usually not possible at the height of summer. Always go with a guide and in good weather.

5. Borgarfjörður eystri

Best place for puffin-watching

The tiny village of Bakkagerði is surrounded by colorful mountains in Borgarfjörður eystri, one of the more remote Eastfjords. Getting there is an adventure in its own right as the road winds its way up and down a mountain pass. As you enter the village, time seems to slow down. Here you can relax and enjoy nature, go on hikes, explore on two wheels or treat yourself to a boat tour  and watch puffins up close from the bird-watching house on Hafnarhólmi.

Planning tips: To see puffins, visit from mid-May to early August. Christmas-related events take place during Advent, and snow sports are possible during winter.

6. Hallormsstaðaskógur

Best for camping in the woods

Visit Iceland’s largest forest and be amazed by its size. The campsite in Atlavík , on the banks of Lake Lagarfljót, is one of the country’s best and most popular among local tourists. There are 40 km (25 miles) of walking paths around the forest, so you can lose yourself among the trees and then climb up and enjoy the view of the lake – perhaps even catch a glimpse of the vicious wyrm that is said to inhabit it. Egilsstaðir, East Iceland’s largest town, is only 30 minutes away, and some of the region’s biggest attractions, like Hengifoss waterfall , are also close by.

Planning tips: Visit between June and August for camping. A forest festival is held around Midsummer’s Day, and mid-August to mid-September is the berry-picking season. Enjoy autumn colors from late August through October.

Best place for whale watching

Visit Iceland’s whale-watching capital and enjoy the friendly atmosphere as you stroll around the harbor. Joining a whale-watching tour of Skjálfandi Bay with one of the local tour operators is a must, perhaps combined with a bird-watching tour or a visit to Flatey Island , which was inhabited until the 1960s.

Learn more about whales at the fascinating Whale Museum , enjoy a beer at Gamli Baukur and try the salted cod at Salka Restaurant . Afterward, soak in the geothermal waters at Geosea and take in the gorgeous view of Skjálfandi. Húsavík is on the Diamond Circle and Arctic Coast Way.

Planning tips: Whale watching is available from March to November but is most enjoyable during the summer months.

8. Hauganes

Best place for a special bathing experience

There’s more than meets the eye at this hamlet on the shore of Eyjafjörður in North Iceland. The hot tubs on the beach have become quite the attraction, and it’s also tempting to brave the frigid waves. Try the salted cod at Baccalá restaurant and bar – it's prepared by local company Ektafiskur. You can also catch your own fish on sea angling tours and go whale watching from Hauganes. In the nearby village of Árskógssandur, Kaldi beer is brewed, and the brewery also offers beer baths . The ferry to the idyllic island Hrísey goes from Árskógssandur.

Planning tips: Visit for the midnight sun in the summer and northern lights in winter. Sea tours are best enjoyed in the summer.

9. Siglufjörður

Best for snow sports

Although it's best known as the location for the crime series Trapped , Siglufjörður is not scary at all. It’s a peaceful fishing community that used to be isolated – trapped, if you will – between tall mountains but has now been connected to the neighboring town of Ólafsfjörður by a tunnel. It was one of Iceland’s bustling herring processing centers during the boom that reached its height in the mid-20 th century.

This remarkable history is documented in the Herring Era Museum . Today, Siglufjörður is one of North Iceland’s centers for snow sports  – don't miss the popular Moroccan restaurant in town after a day on the slopes. Siglufjörður also has a beloved ski resort , and off-piste skiing is possible in the mountains of the Tröllaskagi peninsula.

Planning tips: Visit between January and March for cross-country and Alpine skiing at resorts. Off-piste skiing is usually possible through May. 

10. Hólmavík

Best base for exploring Strandir

On the northern coast of the Westfjords lies the fishing village Hólmavík, which has made a name for itself with its Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft . Diving into Iceland’s darker past, it tells tales of sorcerers and magic spells, witch burnings and other heinous acts. In a charming old house, Café Riis serves delicious pizzas and other treats.

The nearby town of Drangsnes has several  beachside hot tubs that could easily tempt you to spend the rest of the day gazing at the incredible scenery. A bumpy – and slightly scary – gravel road continues onwards along the Strandir region to some of Iceland’s remotest communities in Árneshreppur. At the edge of the world, you can book a night at Hótel Djúpavík .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer as the road to the remoter communities is often hazardous or closed in winter.

Best place for quiet contemplation

In the middle of Breiðafjörður Bay, between the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula , is an island which seems to have been lost in time. Only a handful of people live there year-round, but in summer the village comes to life when part-time residents come and stay in the beautifully restored houses. Walk around Flatey among grazing sheep and busy seabirds (watch out for the Arctic terns), look out at the ocean and find inner calm. The ferry goes between Stykkishólmur and Brjánslækur .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer when the weather is more stable for sailing and more services are open.

12. Húsafell

Best resort for diverse experiences

In the innermost part of Borgarfjörður in the West, almost at the foot of Langjökull glacier, is the forested paradise of Húsafell – its hotel, campground and cottages have made it very popular among local tourists. There are both easy and challenging walking paths, including to the spectacular waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Glacial tours are available from Húsafell, and Víðgelmir , a massive lava cave, is just a few minutes away. You can soak in the on-site swimming pools or go on a hike to the more exclusive Canyon Baths .

Planning tips: Visit year-round. Summer is best for camping and hiking, and winter is best for viewing the northern lights.

This article was first published Apr 15, 2021 and updated Mar 12, 2024.

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25 Absolute-Best Places to Visit in Iceland (+Things to Do & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2024

There is so much written about Iceland that it can get really overwhelming to figure out where exactly to go and what are the best places to visit in Iceland . In this article, we cover some of the most popular areas but also some lesser-known places that I think are worth visiting in Iceland the most. Find out!

Good to know: This article with top things to do in Iceland was initially published after our second trip to Iceland. In the meantime, we have visited Iceland 6 times, and so it was time to update it. I’ve now been to Iceland in all seasons and traveled in pretty much all regions. While there is still so much more to be explored, I feel that I can now give you a much better idea of the best areas to visit and the very best places to see in Iceland.

While the list now contains more than the initial top 10 places, it does not list every single attraction or landmark separately. We also didn’t include all the details about everything that you can do in Iceland.

The aim of this article is to give you an overview of the most beautiful areas, the best things to do, and the nicest places in Iceland that are worth visiting the most . So that you have a good idea of where to travel in Iceland without getting too overwhelmed with all the details.

BEST OF ICELAND IN A NUTSHELL: * MUST-SEE:  South Coast, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Golden Circle, Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes Peninsula. * MUST DO: Blue Lagoon  and/or  Sky Lagoon (book well ahead!!!). * FUN TO DO: Glacier hiking ,  whale watching ,  Silfra snorkeling . * WINTER:   Ice caves  and  Northern lights . * MUST TRY: Icelandic hot dog ( pylsur ), Skyr, lamb, fish stew ( plokkfiskur ). * WHERE TO STAY:   Where to stay in Iceland  –  Where to stay in Reykjavik  –  Where to stay in Snaefellsnes Peninsula .

TIP: If you are looking for more information about each area mentioned in our guide below, please make sure to read the more detailed articles that we link to from this post. If you are looking for ideas on how to plan your trip and day-by-day itinerary suggestions, please check our guides below:

• 4-day South Coast itinerary .
• 7-day winter itinerary .
• One-week Iceland itinerary for summer months .
• Iceland Ring Road itinerary in 10 days .
• Iceland itineraries for any duration (1-14 Days) .

Without further ado, here is a list of the best places to visit in Iceland :

1. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is not coincidentally the first one mentioned on this list. If there is one place that you really don’t want to miss in Iceland, then it’s Jokulsarlon.

The glacier lagoon is just amazing and the scenery changes all the time. Icebergs move all the time and no two visits are ever the same. In addition to the lagoon itself, you should also visit the so-called Diamond Beach , just across the road. When the weather conditions are favorable, you can see the most extraordinary ice formations scattered all over the beach. Shining in the sunlight like huge diamonds…

For me, this beach is even more special than the lagoon itself. Especially on a sunny winter day or at sunset. Magical!

TIP: You may want to check out the nearby Fjalljökull glacial lagoon as well. It’s smaller and less touristic than Jökulsárlón, and it’s very nice too. Nearby Stokksnes headland is also well worth a visit.

How to visit: You can see the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon from ashore, or take a boat tour (May-Oct) between the icebergs. You can choose between an amphibian boat or a zodiac tour.

2. South Coast – Vík Beaches

Iceland’s South Coast is one of the most visited areas in the country and rightly so. This area is simply stunning!

The picturesque village of Vik and the nearby Reynisfjara beach and the impressive coastline are well worth it in any season. Vik black sand beach was once ranked as one of the ten most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world.

TIP: Don’t miss the nearby Dyrhólaey Lighthouse and the stunning rock formations visible from there.

How to visit: There are several parking areas along the coast near Vik. You’ll need a car to get here. Alternatively, you can visit with a South Coast tour from Reykjavik .

Important! Be VERY careful on this beach – the waves here are unpredictable and it’s very dangerous to walk close to the water. Even if the water looks calm, stay as far away as you can. Under no circumstances go into the sea at Reynisfjara beach!

LEARN MORE : Best Stops & Attractions of Iceland’s South Coast

3. Golden Circle

By far the most popular place to visit in Iceland is the so-called Golden Circle . The Golden Circle, formerly also known as the Golden Triangle, refers to three main locations – Thingvellir National Park , Gullfoss waterfall , and Geysir area with a very active Strokkur geyser.

Thingvellir National Park is best known for its continental divide, the Mid Atlantic Ridge. It’s a place where you can see the opening between the tectonic plates of Europe and North America. It’s a beautiful area to explore on foot. Don’t miss the somewhat hidden Öxarárfoss waterfall.

Gullfoss , or The Golden Waterfall, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Must see!

You just cannot go to Iceland and not see a geyser erupt! Geysir area is a geothermal area where the mother of all geysers – Geysir – is located. While Geysir hasn’t been active in a long time, there is a smaller geyser called Strokkur that erupts at regular intervals every 5-10 minutes. So you never have to wait long in order to see it.

TIP: While extremely touristy, the Golden Circle is popular for a reason. If you can, visit early in the morning or late in the evening in order to avoid the biggest crowds.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to explore the Golden Circle. Alternatively, there are lots of organized Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik .

4. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Somewhat lesser visited than the previously mentioned places, Snæfellsnes Peninsula is another region that you really should see in Iceland. This is one of the places that you can quite easily in all seasons.

Best known for its picturesque Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, this area has so much more to offer than that! Volcanic landscapes, rugged coastlines, stunning rock formations, countless waterfalls, beautiful beaches, colorful lighthouses, quaint little villages, and tiny picturesque churches… These are just a few of the reasons to visit Snaefellsnes.

TIP: If you are visiting in summer and have the time, I recommend at least 2 days for this area.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get around. Alternatively, join one of the guided Snaefellsnes day tours from Reykjavik .

LEARN MORE: Complete Guide to Snaefellsnes Best Things to Do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula

5. Blue Lagoon & Sky Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction and is considered the no. 1 must-visit place in Iceland. It’s a huge outdoor geothermal pool with a distinctive blue or milky blue color and nice warm temperatures.

Good to know: Blue Lagoon is extremely popular so it’s essential to reserve your tickets in advance. You can book tickets here .

How to visit: Blue Lagoon is located close to Reykjavik KEF airport and you can either get there by car or by taking a Blue Lagoon bus transfer from Reykjavik . It takes about an hour to get there from the city and you will probably spend at least 2 hours in the water, so count at least 4 hours for your visit.

TIP: You can also visit the Blue Lagoon on your way to or from the airport. Bus transfers are available for Keflavik airport as well (see the link above).

Alternative: Instead of Blue Lagoon (or in addition to), you may want to visit the amazing geothermal pool Sky Lagoon . It’s been opened a few years ago and has quickly become a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

Sky Lagoon is located in Reykjavik, much closer to town, and offers amazing sea views and a unique Spa ritual. You can reserve your tickets here (also here, you really have to book in advance!).

6. Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls

After Gullfoss, these are the most visited waterfalls in Iceland. Located along the South Coast, both – Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss – are among the must-see landmarks in Iceland.

Skogafoss is a really majestic waterfall. It’s so photogenic that if you ever see pictures of a waterfall in Iceland, it’s most likely to be Skogafoss. You can also climb the stairs all the way to the top of the waterfall for some great views of the area.

Seljalandsfoss is the only Icelandic waterfall that I know of where you can walk behind the falling water. In the winter, the waterfall is partially frozen and the whole area around it looks like an ice skating rink, so the walk behind it is usually closed. It’s still nice to see and worth a short stop. But it’s most magical when you can walk behind this waterfall and experience how special this place is. Prepare to get wet!

TIP: Don’t miss the hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall located inside the gorge just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss. It takes just a few minutes to visit – follow the path to the left from Seljalandsfoss and you’ll see informational panels on the right side.

Myvatn Lake in the North of Iceland is another place you really should visit in Iceland. This area is very diverse and has a lot to offer, especially in the warmer season.

Here are some of the best things to do at Myvatn: a walk to the caldera of Krafla volcano and the lava fields, short walk to the pseudocraters at Myvatn Lake , Leirhnjukur hiking trail, Dimmuborgir area of remarkable lava formations and the 45-minute walk to Kirkjan lava tube structure.

Námaskarð geothermal area is also a must-see in North Iceland! It’s an easily reachable compact area with bubbling mud pools and colorful steaming geothermal features. You have to prepare for the smell though.

Myvatn Nature Baths are also not to be missed. This geothermal pool offers beautiful views, and it’s less busy and cheaper than the Blue Lagoon. However, it’s changed a lot in recent years, and so if you travel here in summer, expect it to be very busy. You may want to book your tickets in advance here too!

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get to Myvatn. If you are stopping in Akureyri on a cruise ship, you can visit Myvatn with this popular shore excursion .

LEARN MORE: Things to Do in Myvatn

8. Húsavík

Known as the best place to see whales in Iceland , Húsavík definitely deserves a mention as one of the best places to visit in Iceland as well. If you are visiting Northern Iceland in summer, whale watching in Husavik is a must.

The town is very picturesque too and you can visit the Húsavík Whale Museum .

GeoSea – geothermal sea baths are also very popular and boast stunning sea views. It’s one of the most scenic pools in Iceland.

TIP: There are many whale watching tours that run from Husavik , but they’re extremely popular and have to be booked in advance. One of the best options I always hear people mention is this tour with Gentle Giants .

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get to Husavik.

9. Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel

Located just a short drive from Reykjavik, Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel is one of the most unique places to visit in Iceland.

This underground lava tube was created by a volcanic eruption over 5,000 years ago and is one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland. It’s definitely the easiest one to access and you can visit here all year round.

Good to know: The lava tunnel can only be visited with a guided tour. Tours take about 1 hour and there are several time slots during the day, depending on the season.

How to visit: If you have a car, you can easily drive here on your own (just don’t forget to book a time slot for your visit so that you are sure to have a spot). Alternatively, this is a very nice 3-hour excursion from Reykjavik, and there are several companies organizing tours here.

10. Westfjords Region

If you want to get a bit off the beaten path in Iceland and discover some of its most impressive, vast landscapes, then you really should consider visiting the Westfjords region .

It’s quite far away from everything, however, distances are immense, and most roads are gravel. So it’s best to travel here in summer and come well prepared.

Some of the most beautiful places not to be missed in the Westfjords are Dynjandi waterfall (most beautiful waterfall in Iceland), Látrabjarg bird cliffs (best place to see puffins in summer), Rauðisandur beach (endless red sand beach; unique in Iceland), and Ísafjörður town.

You’ll need at least 2-3 days to see the whole region and it will be rushed, but you can also see the main attractions in 1-2 days.

How to visit: You’ll need a 4WD or a 4×4 vehicle in the Westfjords. Make sure that your car insurance covers driving on gravel roads.

TIP: The easiest way to get to the Westfjords is by taking a car ferry from Stykkishólmur on Snaefellsnes Peninsula. That way, you can also just come for one or two days and see the landmarks on the southern side of the Westfjords region.

LEARN MORE: Westfjords One Day Itinerary

11. Skaftafell National Park

Skaftafell NP is one of the easiest-accessible and most beautiful National Parks in Iceland. It, therefore, deserves a mention on every list of the best places to visit in Iceland.

There are many short hiking trails in this park. The most popular hike is that to Svartifoss – a waterfall surrounded by impressive black basalt columns.

If you have a few hours to spare, consider the Svartifoss – Sjónarsker – Sel walk and the walk to the glacier Skaftafellsjökull. Alternatively, the Svartifoss – Sjónarnípa hike is somewhat longer but even more impressive.

How to visit: Skaftafell NP is located just off the Ring Road in the south of Iceland. You can easily get here in a regular car. There is a Visitors’ Center where you get more information and find detailed hiking maps.

12. Icelandic Highlands

The biggest part of Iceland has hardly any roads and is very little explored, but if there is one part of Iceland that is worth visiting more than anything else, it’s the Icelandic Highlands !

Since the highlands are so vast and there are so many beautiful hidden gems, it would be impossible to mention even a small part of them. At the same time, most areas are very remote and require local knowledge and super jeeps with oversized tires in order to visit them… Furthermore, the highlands are only accessible from approximately mid-June to mid-September.

Some of my favorite places in the highlands that are somewhat easy to visit are Kerlingarfjöll , Háifoss , and Landmannalaugar . Haifoss waterfall is quite easy to visit on your own as well.

How to visit: You’ll need a good 4WD or a 4×4 for all of the places mentioned above, but the easiest way to visit is by joining a tour. If you want to get a taste of what the highlands are about, the most popular highlands tours are those to Landmannalaugar. You can check availability and book Landmannalaugar tours here .

LEARN MORE: Icelandic Highlands Tour with a Private Driver

13. Reykjanes Peninsula

One of the easiest areas to visit in Iceland from this list, the Reykjanes Peninsula is often overlooked by most Iceland visitors. Their loss! This stunning area close to Keflavik airport and Reykjavik city is home to the popular Blue Lagoon and is well worth a visit too.

With colorful geothermal areas, endless lava fields, and stunning rugged coastlines, Reykjanes Peninsula is like the best of Iceland in a nutshell.

Don’t miss the Valahnúkamöl Cliffs at Reykjnesviti Lighthouse and Seltún Geothermal Area . Bridge Between Continents is another nice spot, just as Strandarkirkja and Garður . Krysuvikurberg Cliffs are really beautiful too, but require a 4 WD vehicle to get there.

How to visit: You can easily visit most of the attractions of the Reykjanes Peninsula by yourself with a regular car. Alternatively, join one of the guided tours from Reykjavik . Some areas require a 4WD or even a super jeep.

LEARN MORE: Ultimate Guide to Reykjanes Peninsula

14. Recently-Active Volcanos

This is the newest addition to the best things to do in Iceland – hiking to one of the recently erupted volcanos!

In March 2021, there was an eruption of the Fagradalsfjall volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The nearby Geldingadalir valley was filled with burning lava and the scenery was changing daily. The volcano quickly became the new most popular sight in Iceland attracting locals and tourists alike.

More recently, in August 2022, another volcano erupted just near the first site – Meradalir .

In the summer of 2023, Fagradalsfjall volcano erupted again, but this time it didn’t last long. In the winter of 2023, there was another massive eruption in the same area. It even triggered some evacuations and closures.

At the moment of the last update, these volcano eruptions have stopped. But many of the eruption sites remain a very popular place to see in Iceland, attracting lots of tourists every day.

Good to know: The easiest way to get to the volcano eruption sites is by car or by joining a tour (on foot or by helicopter). There are quite a few volcano tours available . Most of them include pick-up/ drop-off in Reykjavik and some also visit a few of the main highlights of the Reykjanes Peninsula or include tickets to the Blue Lagoon.

15. Tröllaskagi Peninsula

If there is one area in North Iceland that seems to be completely overlooked by international tourists, it’s the beautiful town of Siglufjörður and its surroundings, aka the Tröllaskagi Peninsula . It’s simply stunning!

The fishermen’s town Siglufjörður is extremely picturesque and The Herring Era Museum is well worth a visit. But probably even more impressive is the scenic drive to get there. Road 76 which leads from Varmahlíð to Siglufjörður is probably the most beautiful scenic drive in Iceland.

TIP: Make sure to stop at Hofsós swimming pool . Don’t miss the Grafarkirkja (said to be the oldest church in Iceland)! Víðimýrarkirkja and Glaumbær Farm & Museum are also worth a visit.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to explore this area.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Siglufjörður and Trollaskagi Peninsula

16. Heimaey Island

Part of Iceland’s Westman Islands, Heimaey Island is the biggest island and one of the most beautiful places in Iceland.

It’s a place where you can get acquainted with the more traditional way of living in Iceland and feel what it’s really like to live on a remote island. Especially if you visit off the main season.

The landscapes here are stunning, and in summer, you can see lots of puffins on the island. There is also a whale sanctuary where you can see white Beluga whales.

How to visit: You’ll need to take a ferry to get here. Private tours from Reykjavik are also possible, but very expensive. For comparison, be sure to check this option as well – the prices depend on your group size.

LEARN MORE: Visiting Westman Islands

17. Dettifoss & Asbyrgi

There are two more places in Northern Iceland that are well worth visiting and deserve a mention among the best things to do in Iceland – Dettifoss Waterfall and Asbyrgi Canyon .

Dettifoss is Europe’s most powerful waterfall. With 100 meters (330 ft) in width, a drop of 44 meters (144 ft), and an average water flow of 193 m³/s, this is the place where you feel the power of nature as nowhere else in Iceland. Must see!

Asbyrgi Canyon is a somewhat lesser-known place located between Dettifoss and Husavik and it’s well worth a short stop or a longer visit. It always amazes me how such completely different landscapes can be so close to each other and the tranquility of Asbyrgi is just incomparable to the roaring powerful Dettifoss.

How to visit: Road #862 to Dettifoss is paved and easily accessible (road #864 is not and requires a 4WD). Road #861 to Asbyrgi is also paved. However, road #862 north of Dettifoss is gravel and it’s best to have a 4WD if you are planning to drive here. Alternatively, you can reach Asbyrgi from Husavik.

18. Vatnajökull Glacier

With so many glaciers in Iceland, it’s hard to pick just one to mention as the best one to visit. However, Vatnajökull Glacier is the largest ice cap in Iceland. So if you visit just one glacier in Iceland, it will likely be this one.

With a total area of +- 7,900 km 2 (3,100 sq mi), Vatnajokull is immense. It has around 30 glacier tongues (outlet glaciers), each with its own name, and so it’s likely that you’ll see those names mentioned in the description of various glacier tours and activities.

How to visit: You can see various glacier tongues from the Ring Road in southern Iceland. But the best way to visit glaciers in Iceland is by booking a glacier hiking tour , visiting the ice caves , and snowmobiling . Keep in mind that you need to book an organized tour for any activities where you go on the glacier itself.

In winter – from about October to March – you can also see some of the most beautiful natural ice caves in Iceland. You can only visit with a tour and you should book in advance. There is also one place – Katla – where you can visit a natural ice cave in the summer as well . This is the best tour that goes to Katla ice cave and it departs from Vik. There is also a day tour that visits this ice cave from Reykjavik.

READ ALSO: Glacier Hiking in Iceland

19. East Fjords

Another region that is often overlooked by travelers who just drive the Ring Road from South to North is the East Fjords . It’s a stunning region that is well worth visiting if you pass eastern Iceland!

The nicest towns are probably Eskifjörður and Seyðisfjörður , the latter is famous for its colorful rainbow path leading to the church. In season, Borgarfjörður Eystri is a good place to see puffins.

There are also lots of waterfalls in the area, hiking trails, Laugarfell hot pool, and Petra’s Stone collection in Stöðvarfjörður…

The eastern part of Iceland is where you’re most likely to see reindeer.

How to visit: You will need a car to visit the East Fjords.

20. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon near Kirkjubaejarklaustur used to be one of my favorite places in Iceland. It was so peaceful and undiscovered. Nowadays, it’s so popular that the walking path along the side of the canyon had to be closed so that nature could recover a bit.

There are other incredibly beautiful canyons in Iceland, but this one is the easiest to access. So if you want to visit a canyon in Iceland, Fjaðrárgljúfur is well worth a trip. Just please be respectful to nature and obey the signs.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get here. This Jokulsarlon day tour also stops at Fjadrargljufur.

21. Goðafoss Waterfall

Goðafoss , meaning the waterfall of Gods, is one of the most visited waterfalls in Northern Iceland.

It’s extremely beautiful and especially on a sunny day. Often, you can see a rainbow over the falls and it looks simply magical.

How to visit: Located just next to the Ring Road, Godafoss is very easy to get to by car. All North Iceland tours that visit Myvatn stop here as well. Paved walking paths connected by a pedestrian bridge allow you to see the waterfall from two sides of the river.

22. Hvitserkur

Hvitserkur is a beautiful rhino-shaped rock along the northern coast of Iceland. While the rock itself is very impressive, the entire area around it is simply phenomenal.

We were not sure if it was worth the long drive, but it absolutely is. I, therefore, think that Hvitserkur deserves to be mentioned among the most beautiful places in Iceland. If you are driving in the north anyway, this is just a rather short detour from the Ring Road.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get here. The road is gravel but in good condition.

LEARN MORE: Hvitserkur

23. Reykjavík

While I think that Iceland’s beauty lies mostly in its nature and people rather than its towns, no list of the best places in Iceland would be complete without mentioning its capital city, Reykjavik .

Reykjavik has changed beyond recognition in the past years and it has more to offer to tourists than ever before.

In the past, I would have told you that one day is more than enough to see all the highlights, which include the views from Hallgrimskirkja church tower, discovering the streets of the colorful town center , feeding ducks at the Reykjavik Lake Tjörnin , visiting Harpa concert hall, seeing the Sun Voyager statue, and visiting some museums.

However, there is now so much more to see and do in Reykjavik than that, with new amazing attractions opening up all over the city all the time. So if you do have some extra time to spare, plan a few days in Reykjavik (see here our guide on where to stay in Reykjavik ).

TIP: My favorite museum that I absolutely recommend in Reykjavik is Perlan . Here you can find our guide to Perlan, the best museum in Reykjavik .

Other great attractions include FlyOver Iceland , Whales of Iceland , Magic Ice Bar , and the geothermal pool with cliffside ocean views, Sky Lagoon .

LEARN MORE: Top Things to Do in Reykjavik & Reykjavik 1-Day Itinerary

24. Langjökull Glacier

Langjökull is the second-largest glacier in Iceland. Its name means “the long glacier”.

Because of its proximity to the popular Golden Circle, it’s easy to visit Langjökull glacier when you are touring the area or on a day trip from Reykjavik. It’s also possible to reach the glacier from Húsafell which is closer to Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Important: Keep in mind that you need to go with a local guide who knows the area and potential dangers. You can see what kinds of tours are available here .

The glacier is vast and rather diverse, so there are some unique glacier tours here. There are also some ice caves that you can visit. There is a man-made ice cave that is accessible the whole year round, but there is also a natural ice cave , which is much more impressive, of course.

For many years, the most popular way to visit Langjökull Glacier was by snowmobile which allows you to cover big distances in a short time (there are snowmobile tours starting from Reykjavik or from the Golden Circle).

But if you want to see the ice caves of Langjokull, you should opt for a glacier truck tour instead. You can visit a man-made ice cave from Húsafell , but we recommend the newly-discovered natural ice cave that you can visit from the Golden Circle side instead. This recently launched glacier truck tour is one of the best options if you want to visit a natural ice cave near Reykjavik!

No matter which tour you choose, a visit to Langjökull Glacier is one of the most amazing experiences in Iceland. It will definitely make your trip so much more memorable!

25. Akureyri

For those of you who are wondering why Akureyri is at the bottom of this list… While I think that it’s a nice place to stop for an hour or two if you have plenty of time in Iceland, I also believe that there are so many nicer places to see in North Iceland that are worth your time more.

That being said, if you go to Akureyri, take some time to walk through the old town and also don’t miss the Botanical Gardens . The new attraction here is the geothermal pool called Forest Lagoon . Akureyri is also a popular place for whale-watching excursions .

There are also some nice places to see nearby, so you could use Akureyri as a ‘base’ location for exploring more of Northern Iceland.

If you are just passing by, you may want to stop at the Christmas House just outside of town.

So, this is our guide to some of the very best places to visit in Iceland.

I hope that it will inspire you to discover this beautiful country beyond its most popular tourist attractions like the Golden Circle, Reykjavik, and the South Coast.

Below, is a video showcasing some of our favorite places in Iceland . Take a look! And further down, you can find links to our other guides that should help you plan your own dream trip to Iceland.

How to plan a road trip in Iceland:

• Itinerary Suggestions: Iceland itinerary for 1 to 14 days
• The musts: 4 days in Iceland
• Best summer itinerary for one week: 7 days in Iceland
• Complete Ring Road: Iceland’s Ring Road in 10 days
• Winter trip: Iceland winter itinerary for one week
• A bit off the beaten path: 10 days in Iceland (summer only)

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Iceland

Planning a trip to Iceland and have questions? Please check our recommended articles below and in our Iceland travel guide .

If you have a specific question about any of the places mentioned in this article or want to share your favorite landmarks or attractions in Iceland, feel free to leave a reply below.

More tips for your trip to Iceland:

• Good to know: Iceland Travel Tips
• When to go: When to Visit Iceland – Summer vs. Winter
• Airport transfers: How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
• Budget: How Expensive is Iceland (& How to Save Money)
• Packing: What to Wear in Iceland in Winter & What to Pack for Iceland in Summer
• Tours: Best Tours and Day Trips in Iceland & Best Winter Day Trips from Reykjavik
• Winter trip: Tips for Visiting Iceland in Winter & Northern Lights in Iceland
• For at home: Nordic Gifts

READ ALSO: Northern Lights in Iceland

TIP: Planning a trip to Iceland and have questions? Join our Facebook Group for Iceland and Scandinavia Travel !

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Gustavo Correa

Monday 11th of March 2024

Hi, Jurga. Very nice and interesting your blog. I'm planning a trip with my family to see the Auroras borealis. I know to see Auroras borealis is very dependent from the time and place you go, is it Iceland a place where you can see the auroras borealis with great certainty? Any recommendations on best dates and place to go for it? Thanks, Gustavo

Monday 1st of April 2024

@Jurga, thanks a lot for your prompt answer. Very valuable and precise information. I'm already reviewing the options in Tromso and will give you feedback on my experience. Already subscribed to your Newsletter. Regards. Gustavo

Tuesday 12th of March 2024

Hi Gustavo, Iceland is a good place to see auroras, but it's impossible to predict. If it's cloudy for days in a row, you may not see anything. But if you are lucky, you may see them multiple times during your winter trip. For more practical information, take a look at our guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland for more information. Also remember that there are so many other great things to do in Iceland in winter! That being said, if auroras are your main interest, then consider other places that are closer to the aurora circle = the chances of seeing them are higher. One of the best places for the Northern Lights in the world is Tromso in Northern Norway. But also there, if you are very unlucky with the weather, you may not see them. The good thing is that being that close to the aurora circle, you can see some amazing displays even when the aurora activity is very weak. That's not the case in Iceland where you need a much higher solar activity in order to see really strong auroras. Here you can find our guide to the Northern Lights in Tromso. Whatever destination you choose, the longer you stay, the more chances you have.

Wednesday 29th of November 2023

Darn if I wasn't booked up for the next 2 years I would go here next summer. I can plan this for 2026 though.

Friday 1st of December 2023

Thursday 30th of November 2023

Ha ha, life's too short for all the trips we want to make, isn't it... But if you are making plans for the future, you really can't go wrong with visiting Iceland. It's so different than anywhere else. In the meantime, enjoy all your other trips!

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Hi, Your blog is great and super helpfu!! I love all of the details. I am going to Iceland in February (less than a month). I am doing a 5 day tour that includes a hike on a glacier. I am going a few days early and have 1 day to do an excursion. I am debating between the Glacier Lagoon and Kalta Ice Caves. We will not be going to Vik on the tour. Any thoughts on which is better? If you recommend the ice caves, I was planning on use viatour, but the Kalta tour is no longer available. Any suggestions on tour companies? Thanks, Alissa

Tuesday 24th of January 2023

@Jurga, Hi Thanks for the reply! Unfortunately, I can't get my money back and have already booked my tickets. Here is the tour that I am doing. I have some free time in in Reyjavick on my own before the tour starts and was thinking of doing an excursion. Unfortunately, 2 excursions won't work. I tried to past the website and highlights for my tour, but I couldn't. I will email you the link. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Hi Alissa, I'm not sure I'm following - you are going on a 5-day tour in winter and it doesn't include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and doesn't visit any ice cave??? All the best winter tours - even those that take just 2-3 days include both of these in their itinerary (see a 3-day tour and a 2-day tour). Plus, the ice caves that these tours visit are nicer than Katla, but they are too far to visit from Reykjavik in just a day (that's why it's best to go on a 2-3 day tour). Not knowing what you will see on your tour, it's difficult to suggest much. Except that maybe you should book another tour that has a better itinerary... Sorry, but I can't imagine how they wouldn't at least include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in a 5-day itinerary... It's really one of the must-see places in Iceland. Or are you talking about some other glacier lagoon? Or maybe you didn't read the description of your tour in detail... Anyway, if you want to visit Katla, there are still plenty of tours available for February (see on GetYourGuide - it's better than Viator anyway ;)). Hope this helps. Have a great time in Iceland - no matter what you end up visiting, you'll love it!

Friday 28th of January 2022

thank you so much i got all of my homework done because of this!

Glad to help, Landon. We have lots more info and travel itineraries for Iceland that can help you plan the trip. Happy travels!

Sunday 22nd of August 2021

Hello, this article is very helpful. My daughter wants to go to Iceland for her sweet 16 and I was wondering what the odds of us catching the northern lights in November are? What do you recommend so that I can make her bday memorable? Thanks in advance!

Thursday 6th of October 2022

@Jurga, You recommend not driving on your own - would you say this is due to unpredictable weather or because it is generally not safe to drive on your own in Iceland? Wondering if when I visit, if my home base is in Reykjavik, would it be a good idea to rent a car for a couple days to do a few day trips on our own as opposed to hiring a guide for a few?

Tuesday 24th of August 2021

Hi Jessica, in general, November is a great time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, but it remains a natural phenomenon (and the weather will have a big impact as well), so you can never guarantee that you'll get to see them. I was once in Iceland in November for a week and we had the best weather and the most amazing aurora displays a few times during the trip. But you can also have snowstorms and cloudy skies and not see much. So don't plan the trip just for the auroras - there's so much to see in Iceland and the Northern Lights will be just a nice extra if you get to see them.

I recommend either staying in Reykjavik and booking day tours or taking a multi-day tour with a local guide/driver if visiting Iceland in November. Don't drive on your own! If you stay in Reykjavik, you can visit some cool geothermal baths - Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, and take some nice tours. There are just so many choices, it's hard to suggest something specifically not knowing what your interests are. This might give you some ideas: * Best half-day trips from Reykjavik * Best winter tours from Reykjavik Don't miss the Golden Circle and especially the South Coast! There are also museums, nice restaurants, and other activities in town. Here are just a few suggestions: * Perlan museum * Fly over Iceland experience

For more info on the Northern Lights, please check this article: Northern Lights in Iceland.

One more recommendation comes to mind - you could stay in Reykjavik for the majority of the trip and book a 2-day tour for the South Coast. 2 days is a good time to see the highlights of the South Coast and visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon which is quite far to be done in a day. In addition, most 2-day tours include a visit to an ice cave and that can be the most amazing experience that your daughter will never forget! Take a look at this highly-rated 2-day tour for more info.

Hope this helps.

23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Iceland

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 14, 2023

Author Anietra Hamper has traveled throughout Iceland tackling outdoor adventures, from four-wheel driving over lava fields and fishing to taking in the waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic drives.

Iceland, the island of fire and ice, has become one of the world's top travel destinations , not only for thrill-seeking adventurers but also for nature lovers looking for something different.

Here, you'll discover active volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, glaciers, ice fields, and fjords, for this sparsely populated country, resting at the edge of the Arctic Circle, sits atop one of the world's most volcanically active areas.

One way to explore Iceland is on your own with a rental car, from several days to a week, including a trip along the Ring Road that runs in a complete circle around the country.

Another way to plot your adventure in Iceland is with tours that can take you to the best options to see the northern lights; ATV trekking; and on day trips from Reykjavik to see some of Iceland's most stunning natural beauty, like the Blue Lagoon and waterfalls.

Find out more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Iceland.

1. Explore Reykjavik by Foot

2. ride to the top of hallgrímskirkja, 3. soak in the blue lagoon, grindavík, 4. gullfoss waterfall, 5. spot whales out of reykjavik, 6. watch spectacular geysers, 7. take in the northern lights, aurora borealis, 8. hike in landmannalaugar nature reserve, 9. maelifell volcano & myrdalsjökull glacier park, 10. attend a concert at harpa, 11. explore the skaftafell ice cave, vatnajökull national park, 12. visit an active volcano at askja caldera, 13. feel the spray of dettifoss waterfall, 14. kirkjufell mountain, grundarfjördur, 15. hiking at mount esja, 16. walk the town of akureyri, 17. bird-watching at lake myvatn & nature reserve, 18. the pearl observatory (perlan), 19. rev up adventure with an atv trek, 20. float along a glacial lagoon, 21. reynisfjara black sand beach, 22. tour the raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, 23. visit iceland's quirky museums, best time to visit iceland.

The best way to start your trip to Iceland is by sightseeing in the capital city of Reykjavik . This is a walkable city with many museums, restaurants, attractions, public art, and entertainment.

Take a stroll to see some of the iconic locations in the city, like Hallgrimskirkja church and the Sun Voyager sculpture, or relax in one of Reykjavik's 17 thermal pools. You will enjoy walking up and down the city streets and perhaps stop into one of the many artsy and boutique shops to buy a wool sweater or lava pottery.

You can also book a Reykjavik Food Walk Tour and nibble your way through Reykjavik's food scene enjoying local cheeses, or try an authentic Icelandic hot dog.

Some of the best resorts in Iceland are in Reykjavik, so you can base yourself in the city and take day trips. An extremely popular way to visit nearby areas is on a South Coast Full Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik.

A Reykjavik modernist icon, this visually striking church is one of the city's top attractions, and when you see it, you'll understand why. Hallgrimskirkja is the tallest and most recognizable building in the country .

The Black Falls (a basalt rock formation), which is one of Iceland's natural wonders, inspired the architectural design. A climb to the top of the 73-meter-high tower is particularly rewarding. Here, you'll be treated to spectacular views across the city and surrounding landscape. At the front of the church is a statue of Icelander Leifur Eiriksson ("Leif the Lucky"), the first European to discover America around 1,000 CE. It seems he beat Christopher Columbus by around 500 years or so. For a small fee, you can take the elevator to the top and get the best panoramic view of Reykjavik.

Address: Hallgrímstorg 1 101, Reykjavik

Just 40 minutes' drive from Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon , the most iconic of geothermal spas, is a must-see tourist attraction. Here, you'll find natural bathing in pale blue water in the shadow of a power station.

An entire Blue Lagoon industry has grown around this attraction since it first became a hit with locals in 1976. The water from the underground hot springs reaches 37-39 degrees Celsius and is said to be highly beneficial for both health and skin. If the die-hard Icelanders are anything to go by, don't knock the theory. Aside from bathing in a unique setting, there's a shop selling skincare products, a range of spa treatments, and places to eat and drink. Don't visit Iceland without coming here.

Rub on a mask of natural mud in minerals from one of the tubs located on the edges of the lagoon. For the ultimate relaxing visit, you can stay at one of the two hotels at the Blue Lagoon and add on a day at the Retreat Spa.

It is easy to book a bus trip to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik, but if you want to add an extra element of Iceland adventure, you can book a day trip on an ATV that will have you drive there over lava rock paths and take you back by coach to your hotel.

Address: Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík

Magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall lies around 90 minutes west of Reykjavik and is one of the best waterfalls in Iceland . The river Hvítá plummets into a canyon, which forms three-step terraces, creating a powerful torrent. Gullfoss encompasses two cascades; the upper one drops 11 meters, while the lower one cascades about 21 meters.

Torrents of water flow over Gullfoss at an average rate of 109 cubic meters per second, although heavy floods have recorded an astonishing rate of nearly twenty times that. A word of warning: there are no rails or barriers, just a spine-tingling spectacle to enjoy amid surroundings as nature intended.

No matter what time of year you plan to travel to Iceland, whale watching happens year-round, although summer is the most popular time to see these gentle giants. During the warmer months, trips run day and night, including whale watching in the midnight sun.

Tour operators say there's an 80-95 percent chance of seeing these magnificent creatures, depending on the time of year. Best of all, surfacing often happens right near the boats, so you may well enjoy a ringside seat for one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles.

Other ocean-going tours are also available, such as bird-watching and island visits. Tours are convenient since there are several types available, and they depart from Reykjavik's Old Harbor. Stop for a dinner of fresh cod after you return in one of the many small, rustic restaurants located in the harbor area.

Address: Ægisgardur 5, Reykjavik's Old Harbor

An easy 50-minute drive from Reykjavik , Strokkur Geysir (after which all geysers are named) is the most popular fountain geyser in the country and is famed throughout the world. This highly active hot spring area lies in the southwest of Iceland beside the Hvítá River and is a favorite stop along what's known as the Golden Circle.

Boiling mud pits and around 100 other smaller exploding geysers are waiting to be explored here. Every few minutes, Strokkur shoots water 30 meters into the air. Visit the Geysir Center for exhibits and informative presentations year-round.

A memorable experience is digging up Geysir or "hot spring" bread, rye bread that has been baking underground for 24 hours. Visitors can also help a chef boil eggs in a hot spring to accompany the bread. One popular day tour to the area is the Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik, which has several stops and can ensure you get the iconic geyser photo from your trip.

The northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, are among the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland. This is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights .

Auroras are linked to solar wind, a flow of ions radiating from the sun. These particles become ensnared in the earth's magnetic field and collide with atmospheric molecules, causing bursts of energy, which appear as large circles around the poles. This spectacular natural light show is best admired in remote places and is particularly impressive at times of increased solar activity. Since the appearance of the northern lights is unpredictable, most hotels and lodging operators can provide you with nightly predictions before you go to bed and add you to an overnight call list.

They will call your room if the lights appear, as they may only be visible for a short window of time. For one of the most optimal opportunities to experience the northern lights, you can take a tour like the Northern Lights Night Tour from Reykjavik, which takes you to the remote countryside for the best chance to see this natural wonder.

In the south of Iceland, 180 kilometers from Reykjavik, is Landmannalaugar National Park, one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations. The main features of this mystical landscape are the multi-hued rhyolite mountains, Hekla volcano , and extensive lava fields.

Hiking and horse riding are popular things to do here, and hikes range from a couple of hours to several days. You can visit from June to late September, after which the road is closed. A mountain lodge ( Landmannalaugar Hut ) with basic facilities accommodates 75 people. Expect raw nature, rugged scenery, and utterly spectacular views.

South of Landmannalaugar lies Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park, which for safety reasons can only be visited during summer. Large amounts of rain soak the area, particularly in winter, when roads can be severely damaged. Maelifell volcano is the undisputed jewel-in-the-crown of this wild, rugged glacial landscape.

The perfect cone shape gives Maelifell the look of a classic volcano, however during the warm season, a lavish green covering of moss gives it a surreal, otherworldly appearance. The park is full of volcanoes, hot springs , and other remarkable sites. To the west of Myrdalsjökull is a smaller glacier, Eyjafjallajökull (Island Mountain Glacier). A popular and thrilling way to explore is by snowmobile.

As you plan your time in Iceland, set aside an evening for a concert at the magnificent Harpa , Reykjavik's premier concert hall. If time or performance schedules do not fit your schedule, plan to at least stop by to admire the award-winning architecture of the building. Nighttime is one of the best times to see the array of colorful lights emanating from this honeycomb-shaped structure.

Harpa is a treasured landmark in Iceland, attracting international performances ranging from violinists and classical music to performing arts.

This venue makes for a great night out in the heart of the city. Enjoy dinner at one of Harpa's two restaurants and go for a stroll outside along the waterfront after the performance. The gift shop is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs, many made by local artists.

Address: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavik

In the south of the country, Vatnajökull National Park is a land of glaciers and magnificent ice caves that attracts adventurers from across the globe. This vast national park (one of three in Iceland) is divided into four sections and consists of Vatnajökull glacier and its surroundings.

You'll find a number of visitor centers; those in Skaftafell Ice Cave and Höfn are open year-round, while Skriðuklaustur and Jökulsárgljúfur are closed in winter. The best time to visit Skaftafell Ice Cave is during winter after heavy rain has washed the top layer of the glacier away.

If seen at the right time, the cave is bathed in spectacular blue light. Group visits to all areas can be arranged off-season. If you are in good shape, you might consider doing a glacial trek with an experienced guide. The treks get you on the ice for an unforgettable experience to see glacial cracks and caves and even drink fresh water from small pools on the surface.

In the northern region of Vatnajökull National Park, the Askja caldera and the geothermal pool in the Dyngjufjöll Mountains are not for the faint-hearted. However, if you'd like to say you've taken a dip in a live volcano, then this is for you.

Askja is an impressive 50 square kilometers in size. The surrounding mountain range was formed during volcanic activity, and Askja was partly created by an eruption of burning ash that collapsed the roof of the central volcano's magma chamber.

The water in Viti , the geothermal pool and volcanic crater, is generally around 30 degrees Celsius. A word of warning, the banks can be very slippery, particularly in wet weather.

Dettifoss, in the north of Vatnajökull National Park, truly is a breathtaking example of the raw power of nature. Plunging 45 meters and with a width of 100 meters, it's said to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

Generally, it's best to approach on the east side of the River Jökulsa, where the road is better. Along easy paths from Dettifoss, Selfoss is a smaller waterfall around one kilometer upstream with a drop of around 10 meters. Below Dettifoss, the Hafragilsfoss waterfall tumbles 27 meters into a steep canyon. It's more advisable to drive than walk to Hafragilsfoss.

Around 2.5 hours' drive northwest of Reykjavik is the small town of Grundarfjördur, a charming fishing village centrally located on the north coast of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. The town lies in a picturesque fjord, surrounded by mountains, with Mt. Kirkjufell looming as a striking landmark.

Dotted about the surroundings, you'll discover small streams and waterfalls. During winter, Kirkjufell is a great place to watch the awe-inspiring northern lights . Eyrbyggja Heritage Centre holds exhibitions on Grundarfjördur's seafaring history and is the information center for the whole peninsula.

A 30-minute easterly drive from Reykjavik brings you to Mount Esja in Kjalarnes. The mountain is 914 meters high and very popular with hikers. Even for the inexperienced climber, it's a relatively easy hike. There are terrific views of Reykjavik and the surrounding landscape and ocean.

You can take several routes to the summit depending on your energy levels and how much time you have. You can get to the main starting point at Mount Esja by a 10-minute bus ride on public transportation that leaves out of the Hlemmur main station towards Artun. Check bus schedules and times before your visit.

In the north of the country, Akureyri lies amid mountains on the longest fjord in Iceland about 40 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. With a population of around 18,000, Akureyri's landscape and culture make it one of the best cities in Iceland . Summer days occasionally reach 25 degrees Celsius, and although winters bring heavy snowfall and cold weather, calm and still weather generally prevails.

Despite the town's isolation, cultural life and entertainment flourish here, and a wide range of shops offer brand-name products. The skiing area is the best in the country. Points of interest include the Akureyri Museum and the impressive Aviation Museum at Akureyri Airport .

A little over an hour's easterly drive from Akureyri is Myvatn in northern Iceland. It is a lake district famous for its wealth of birdlife, rich fauna, and large shallow body of water. It's estimated that the area was formed around 2,500 years ago by a gigantic lava eruption.

Today, the surroundings are volcanically active, with an eruption occurring as recently as the mid-1980s. Bubbling clay pits, sulphuric fumes, and lava formations all form part of this unique landscape, which is still in flux.

One of the most interesting scenic features of Myvatn is the rootless vents formed by the volcanic eruption. While the landforms resemble craters, they did not have a lava flow, but the volcanic activity still resulted in their creation, adding to a stunning and unique appearance around the lake.

The name Myvatn literally means "midge-water," a reference to the prolific midges here, especially during summer, so be sure to pack some insect repellent. The area is also a bird-watcher's paradise.

Originally the site of the city's gigantic thermal water tanks, " Perlan ," as it's known locally, is one of Reykjavik's landmark buildings. It occupies an enviable location on Öskjuhlíð hill, where there are in excess of 176,000 trees.

The hill is particularly pleasant, with bicycle trails and footpaths zigzagging up and down. The observatory affords stunning views over the city. Also on-site is a revolving restaurant , as well as gourmet and souvenir shops.

In addition, Perlan regularly hosts concerts and exhibitions in the Winter Garden. The observation deck is a real treat. The new planetarium is spectacular with a virtual trip of Iceland featuring the country's natural elements.

Address: Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík

A popular thing to do and one of the most adventurous ways to experience Iceland is on the back of an ATV, trekking across rugged lava fields, riding up dormant volcanos, and passing pastures with roaming wild Icelandic ponies.

These are views of Iceland that you will never forget and one of the best ways to get up close to the country's most scenic natural environment. Tours like the two-Hour ATV Quad Tour from Reykjavik lets you experience ATV off-road adventure without a huge time commitment. Many tours depart from Reykjavik but they are available in most regions of the country.

While Iceland is full of natural wonders, one of the most spectacular is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You will ride in a boat through large chunks of ice that have separated from the glacier.

The floating ice in the lagoon ranges from the size of small pebbles to the size of cars, but since you are floating in the lagoon with them, they are close enough to touch. Witness the blue hue of glacial cave formations and birds flying above in this natural environment.

The South Coast and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Day Tour from Reykjavik is a popular tour for visitors who want to set up a home base for their visit to Reykjavik and do a day trip to this top attraction. The tour also includes visits to two beautiful waterfalls and spectacular views of mountains and glacial rivers along the south coast.

While Iceland has some stunning beaches, the Reynisfjara black-sand beach on the country's southern coast has an other-worldly appearance. This unique beach is known for its black sand and rocky sea stacks that protrude from the oftentimes ferocious waves coming in from the Atlantic Ocean.

The eerie yet stunning landscape of natural beauty at Reynisfjara beach is one of the reasons it was selected as a filming location for films like Star Wars. The lighting at this beach adds to its contrasting allure, which is why it is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys photography.

As with many natural locations in Iceland, Reynisfjara black-sand beach has dark folklore associated with it. Iceland legend says that the rocky basalt sea stacks were once trolls pulling seafaring ships to shore in the night, and they turned to stone during sunrise.

You are not likely to see any trolls during your visit, but you might see some of the thousands of seabirds, like puffins, guillemots, and fulmars, that nest in the columns.

The 2.5-hour drive to the beach is easy from Reykjavik, or you can take a guided trip along the southern coast that includes this as a stop if you want to spend more time at some of the other features on that side of the island.

Read More: Best Black Sand Beaches in the World

The land of fire and ice has so many intriguing natural elements that visiting is an exciting science lesson into how volcanos work. One way to find out is by visiting the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel in southwest Iceland.

At 4,461 feet, it is one of the longest lava tubes in the country. You can take a guided tour through the cave to get up close to the stunning lava rock formations and colorful walls that have formed below the earth.

A tour through the tunnel will walk you through the path where lava flowed during a volcanic eruption of the Bláfjöll Mountain Range more than 5,000 years ago. These tunnels were formed as flowing magma hardened and thickened, creating a crust roof resulting in a lava tube.

Outside the lava tube, you will see stunning green moss covering lava rock and craters formed from the eruption. It is only about a half hour from Reykjavik, and you can visit year-round. If you visit in the winter, plan on wearing extra layers and sturdy boots for icy and wet conditions.

Iceland has an intriguing history of Vikings that settled on the island and folklore involving trolls and other creatures that still influence the culture today. One of the most interesting ways to learn about the varied tentacles of Icelandic culture is by visiting some of its museums. Some of them are seemingly mainstream, while others, sometimes found off the beaten path, explore some rather unusual finds.

In Reykjavik, the National Museum of Iceland is a good place to visit to explore Icelandic history and settlement. The Saga Museum also gives insight into the Viking heritage, with life-sized replicas of early settlers, offering a nice history lesson before you venture into some of the other types of museums.

Start your quirky museum visit with The Punk Museum on the back street of Reykjavik, which delves into Iceland's punk music scene that emerged in the 1970s. The Árbær Open Air Museum (within the Reykjavik City Museum) is another experience worth trying as you see more than 20 buildings that form a small early settlement village.

Not far from Reykjavik in Njarðvík is the Viking World Museum , which has an exact replica of a Viking ship that was discovered in Norway in the late 1800s and exhibitions detailing the Norse settlement.

One of the more unique museums in Iceland is the Sigurgeir's Bird Museum at Mývatn . The tiny museum features a collection of more than 300 preserved bird specimens representing over 180 species and an extensive collection of eggs.

The Library of Water in Stykkishólmur will give you insight into Iceland's natural environment, with dozens of columns holding water from ice caps. The Nonsense Museum in the Westfjords is a quirky stop to enjoy a large collection of random items, from sugar cubes to police hats that came from forces around the world.

For those who are interested in a deep dive into the history of Iceland's folklore, you should visit The Museum of Icelandic Witchcraft and Sorcery in the Westfjords in Hólmavík village. This museum gives insight into some of the tales and history on which Icelandic beliefs are based. This can be a tough visit for some, and parents should give it a preview before taking their children inside.

When it comes to Iceland, the scenery is naturally stunning year-round, but certain times of the year are better than others to catch some of its most sought-after attributes.

For most visitors, the best time to visit Iceland is in the summer . But, the best time can also depend on what you want to experience. Do you want to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, visit when there is the most hours of daylight, or navigate the Ring Road with no snow? Or, do you want to travel during the low season to get the best rates on hotels and airfare? All of these factors matter when determining the best time to go to Iceland for your specific travel priorities.

Each season in Iceland comes with unique opportunities for exploration and the natural experiences that the island is famous for, like the midnight sun, aurora borealis, and hot springs.

Summer : Summer is hands down one of the best times to go to Iceland. It is the season with the best weather conditions, comfortable temperatures, the best opportunities for sightseeing, and when the roads and hiking trails are open and dry.

You get a front-row seat to the midnight sun. From May through August there is complete sunlight at midnight . While 24 hours of daylight makes it tough to sleep during your trip, it gives you more time to experience all that there is to see and do in Iceland. Summer is a great time to see minke whales out of Reykjavik.

Fall: The fall season is a lovely time to visit Iceland, when temperatures are slightly cooler, the summer tourists are gone, and the weather conditions are still favorable to do things like trekking on a glacier and riding an ATV over lava fields.

Fall colors on the trees are pretty, especially if you are horseback riding or hiking on one of the mountain trails. As fall dips into November, your chances of seeing the northern lights increase, and roads may start to close due to weather conditions. It is also a nice time to visit the Blue Lagoon when there are not so many tourists.

Winter: Winter days in Iceland can have almost 19 hours of darkness. It has the most inclement weather, but the top reason for visiting in the winter months is the chance to see the elusive northern lights. Prices will be cheaper for accommodations, and you will have plenty of availability on tours since it is the off-season.

Winter is a great time to take advantage of the snowfall in Iceland, with excursions like exploring ice caves and snowmobiling. It can be a fun time to visit the Blue Lagoon and the local hot springs where you can warm up – that is, until you get out.

Spring: Early spring in Iceland may still have snow-covered roads, but the days are starting to get longer. You also still have a chance to catch the northern lights during your visit. This shoulder season may limit some winter activities as they come to an end, and some summer excursions may not be available yet.

Spring is a great time to go whale watching, with many kinds of tours available out of Reykjavik. Spring is when you can catch a glimpse of another of Iceland's famous animal residents, the puffin, the unusual-looking bird that is more active in the spring.

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The Most Beautiful Places in Iceland, from Ice Caves to Steaming Geysers

By Caitlin Morton

Nailing down the most beautiful places in Iceland is no easy feat—practically every square inch of the country is downright stunning. Though it once played second fiddle to Nordic neighbors Sweden and Norway , Iceland has quietly come into the spotlight to show the world what it's been missing all these years: expansive underground ice caves, towering volcanoes, thermal baths, and landscapes so convincingly lunar that astronauts once trained there. There is no shortage of beautiful vistas in the country, but these are some of the very best.

This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated with new information.

An easy stop off Route 1 (aka the Ring Road), Skógafoss is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland—and in a land of so many waterfalls, that's definitely saying something. The 197-foot cascade crashes onto black sand, and you can walk right up to the bottom if you're willing to get drenched. Worth it for the double rainbow viewings, we say.

Vatnajökull

Home to one of the largest glaciers in the world, Vatnajökull National Park is one of our favorite places to explore ice caves . But there's more than just frozen ice rivers to see at Vatnajökull, which covers much of Iceland's eastern half. It holds two of the island's most active volcanoes, herds of reindeer around Mt. Snæfell, and a number of breathtaking waterfalls, including Svartifoss, Dettifoss, and Selfoss.

Only about 14 percent of visitors to Iceland ever get to this large peninsula in the northwestern part of the country, which makes it a fitting destination for those looking to escape the (relative) hustle and bustle of Reykjavik . Home to some of Iceland's most dramatic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and charming beach towns (like Breiðavík, pictured), the Westfjords are more inaccessible than other parts of the country, but are well worth the trip.

Reynisfjara

Just a 20-minute drive from Vik, in southern Iceland, jet-black sand and spectacularly shaped basalt columns make Reynisfjara one of the most impressive sites in the country. Spend a foggy afternoon strolling along the rugged coast (just strolling—these waters are definitely not made for swimming) and photographing the moon-like rock formations, deep caves, and towering cliff faces.

Harrison Pierce

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

Blue Lagoon

Grindavík’s Blue Lagoon (about a 50-minute drive from the capital) is otherworldly in appearance—black lava rock punctuated with milky blue waters, and steam billowing like clouds. But the visual appeal is only part of the experience. A soak in the 100-degree waters (which come from the output of a nearby geothermal plant) is a spa-like experience all its own, with silica mud masks and mineral salts ensuring your skin will look and feel better than it did when you got there.

Landmannalaugar

Located in Iceland's southern Highlands, the area of Landmannalaugar has some of the most colorful landscapes in the country thanks to its high geothermal activity. It's an extremely popular hiking area during the summer months, where lucky visitors can be surrounded by a veritable kaleidoscope of greens, oranges, reds, blacks, browns, and more.

Often referred to as the “troll of northwest Iceland,” Hvítserkur rises 49 feet from from Húnaflói Bay like some sort of mythical beast. The rock—best viewed from Iceland's Arctic Coast Way —often looks like it's moving due to the birds that love to perch atop it, making the formation feel more like a living creature.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir is one of Iceland’s two UNESCO sites and one of the most consistently popular tourist destinations in the country. You could spend hours hiking and horseback riding through the national park on your own, but we suggest booking a snorkeling or diving excursion to swim the Silfra fissure —a slowly widening rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss might be a bit of a drive from Reykjavik—about an hour and 45 minutes, to be exact—but it’s worth the trip to see this impressive south-coast waterfall thunder down from a 200-foot drop. The best thing about these particular falls is that you can actually walk behind them, pretending you're living in a fairy tale for a couple of minutes.

Aside from being among the most photographed places in Iceland, Kirkjufell is one of the best spots in the country to view the Northern Lights. (And before you ask: Yes, that is Arrowhead Mountain from Game of Thrones .)

Jökulsárlón

The glacial lake of Jökulsárlón and its frozen beach are considered natural wonders of Iceland, with black volcanic sands providing a stark backdrop for the chunks of ice that wash ashore. The spot earns even more visual bonus points when it's reflecting the Northern Lights.

Dynjandi Waterfall

Dynjandi is often referred to as the “Jewel of the Westfjords”, and we can easily see why. The waterfall flows nearly 330 feet from top to bottom, getting wider as it reaches the bottom like a magnificent, tiered wedding cake. Access Dynjandi via a 15-minute hike from the main road, and be prepared to feel incredibly small as you stand at the bottom of the flowing waters.

Hótel Buđir

It may seem strange to include a hotel in a list of so many natural wonders, but that's a testament to just how beautiful Hótel Buđir really is. Its magical setting on a remote peninsula two hours from Reykjavik features the sea behind it, lava fields in front of it, and a tiny black church beside it. The hotel itself is rustic-chic, and even offers wake-up calls if and when the Northern Lights make a late-night appearance.

Scientists have confirmed Víti naturally formed at the bottom of one of Askja's craters. But its name, meaning "hell," owes to lore that Iceland's large craters were gates to the underworld. And it's not just eye candy: Weather permitting, visitors can swim in the warm, mineral-rich lake.

The Haukadalur valley is a popular stop along Iceland's popular “Golden Circle” sightseeing route thanks to its abundance of impressive geysers. The most visited active geyser in the Geysir Geothermal Area (and the entire country), Strokkur erupts upwards of 65 feet, and every five to ten minutes.

Ísafjörður

Located in Iceland's gorgeous Westfjords peninsula, the tiny town of Ísafjörður (population 2,571) is nearly swallowed by the towering mountains around it. With winter temperatures dipping down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit and summer temperatures rarely above the mid-50s, Ísafjörður is the antithesis of your trusty Italian and Greek resort towns—and therein lies its appeal for those who prefer their vacations more rugged than ritzy.

Mount Mælifell

A volcanic cone of ashes and lava rock, the 2595-foot Mælifell sits on the edge of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and covered in grimmia, a moss that changes color depending on the soil’s humidity. You can drive past the volcano during the summer months, or see it along the Laugavegur Route: the most popular multi-day hiking route in Iceland.

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30 Best Things to Do in Iceland + MAP

Home | Travel | Europe | Iceland | 30 Best Things to Do in Iceland + MAP

Deciding what to do in Iceland is the most difficult part of planning a trip to this beautiful country, as the Land of Fire and Ice is full of majestic landscapes.

Since we love this country so much, we run Iceland photo tours every year. We’ve been to the island many times, so we’ve gotten to explore its most impressive spots, and now we’re sharing our tips! To help you plan your trip, I’m going to tell you about the most beautiful places to visit in Iceland.

But before I do so, I want to tell you that there are several ways to tour this country. The best option is to rent a car in Iceland so you can freely explore the island at your own pace. However, if you don’t want to drive, you can book many excursions from Reykjavík  or take advantage of one of the top  Iceland vacation packages , which include transportation and accommodation.

Now, let’s dive into the best  things to do in Iceland  so you can start planning the trip of your dreams!

1. Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon, the coolest thing to do in Iceland

The  Blue Lagoon  has become one of the must-see  attractions in Iceland , and for good reason.

Nestled in the middle of a lava field, this milky-blue geothermal bath is just 45 minutes from the capital city of Reykjavík and it’s said that the lagoon’s silica and sulfur-rich waters have medicinal properties that can soothe some skin ailments.

To bathe in the Blue Lagoon, you’ll need to buy a ticket, and since it’s one of the most  beautiful places in Iceland , it’s very popular, so I suggest purchasing one in advance. Our guide to  Iceland’s Blue Lagoon  has all the information you need.

Enjoying a soak in the Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular activities to do in Iceland, but if you don’t want to pay, there are several free options such as the Reykjadalur thermal river. I recommend reading our guide to  Iceland’s hot springs  to find a natural pool along your route that fits your budget.

2. Gullfoss, the famous waterfall in Iceland’s Golden Circle

Gullfoss  is one of the most popular  landmarks in Iceland  thanks to its immense beauty. It’s considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country and is also known as the Golden Waterfall. Lying within the course of the Hvítá River, Gullfoss has become one of the most important stops in  Iceland’s Golden Circle .

Visiting this waterfall is one of the best things to do in Iceland because its waters seem to disappear into the depths of the earth. In reality, the waterfall was formed from a crack in the earth’s crust. When you look at Gullfoss head-on, you can see that the waterfall is made of three falls within a 230-foot canyon. The smallest one is about 36 feet high, while the other two are 69 feet and 105 feet high.

Moreover, Gullfoss is one of our favorite places to see the Northern Lights in the Golden Circle. The area is usually crowded with tourists during the day, but if you’re willing to wait until nightfall, you can see the lovely aurora in peace.

3. Geysir & Strokkur geothermal area, an impressive place to visit in Iceland

If you’re wondering  what to do in Iceland ‘s Golden Circle, check out the geothermal area of ​​the  Haukadalur Valley . Also known as the Valley of Geysers, this is where you’ll find  Geysir , the first geyser discovered in the world. This impressive natural phenomenon expels hot steam, gases, and water from inside the earth, making it an awesome  place to go in Iceland .

While Geysir has been inactive for a long time, you can catch another geyser, Strokkur, erupt about a quarter-mile away. Strokkur can launch jets of steam and water as hot as 194° F to a height of nearly 100 feet. This may seem unimpressive compared to the 260 feet that Geysir was used to reach, but when you see it in person, it’s quite remarkable.

This area is certainly a cool place to visit in Iceland, and the eruptions occur every 5-10 minutes, so you won’t have to wait too long to enjoy this natural spectacle. From my experience, getting there around sunrise is the best time to go, as Strokkur’s jets of steam look amazing at this hour.

4. Thingvellir National Park, a unique place in Iceland you can’t miss

As you may have guessed by now, the Golden Circle is a  must-see in Iceland . Along with the Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area, the Golden Circle is also home to  Thingvellir National Park .

This national park is one of  Iceland’s best attractions  and was even declared a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site since it’s where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates separate. Curiously, these plates shift about half a centimeter every year, creating the  Almannagjá crack , which you can currently walk through.

Another interesting  sight to see in Iceland ‘s Thingvellir National Park is the Law Rock, where the world’s first Icelandic parliament,  Alþing , was located. This area is also where you’ll find the  Öxarárfoss waterfall ,  Pingvallavatn Lake , and  Thingvallakirkja , one of Iceland’s first churches.

Plus, Thingvellir is where you can do one of the coolest activities on the island: snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure in Pingvallavatn Lake. It’s one of the most unique experiences because you can dive between two continents. If you want to snorkel here, you’ll need to book a tour like  this one .

5. Bruarfoss, the most beautiful waterfall to see in Iceland

Bruarfoss  is one of the most beautiful waterfalls to  visit in Iceland . It’s also within the Golden Circle, about 9 miles from the town of Laugarvatn.

To get to the waterfall, you have to pass through an area that is privately owned, and ever since the owners decided to cut off access, it’s been harder to get to Bruarfoss.

Now you must park in the official car lot and walk about 45 minutes along the Brúarà River. Trust me, the walk is well worth it because the waterfall is one of the most spectacular  sites in Iceland .

What makes this waterfall especially beautiful is its intense turquoise water, which has earned it the nickname Blue Waterfall of Iceland. Also, now that the area is less accessible, it’s one of the most tranquil  things to do in Iceland .

6. Black sand Beach of Iceland and Vík

Vík , the southernmost town in the country, is one of the   best  places to visit in Iceland  thanks to its beautiful landscapes and interesting attractions.

Here, you’ll find  Reynisfjara Beach , also known as Black Sand Beach of Iceland , which is one of  Iceland’s top attractions . While beautiful, it’s also quite dangerous due to its strong and sometimes lethal “sneaker waves” that can drag you out to sea.

6. Black Beach of Iceland and Vík, two top attractions in Iceland

What differentiates  Reynisfjara  from the other black sand beaches is the  Reynishverfi , the striking basalt cliffs where puffins and seabirds nest in the summer. Also, in this area are the  Reynisdrangar  sea-stacks, protruding cliffs that rise nearly 200 feet out of the water. Many locals say they look like petrified trolls.

Vík offers plenty of other  things to do in Iceland , such as visiting the 300-foot-high arch of  Dyrhólaey  near Reynisfjara Beach. If you go, be sure to also check out the Dyrhólaey lighthouse, from which you’ll get a panoramic view of the black sandy beach of Solheimafjara.

I recommend taking full advantage of your time in Vík and also stopping by the  Víkurkirkja Church , which looks like something out of a postcard. Its white walls and red roof look striking against the beautiful Icelandic landscape.

7. Take a Zodiac boat through the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon

If you’re looking for  fun activities in Iceland , I highly recommend taking a Zodiac boat tour through the  Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon .

Jökulsárlón  is one of the must-see places to add to your Iceland itinerary. Seeing how the large blocks of blue ice break off the glacier is a unique experience, and if you want an up-close view, I suggest booking  this tour .

During your Zodiac boat tour, you’ll cruise among the icebergs of the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and approach the area where the glacier breaks up. Plus, it’s not uncommon to see seals playing in the ice or lounging on the icebergs, so keep an eye out!

Since the tour uses a small boat, you’ll avoid hitting the icebergs while also being able to get closer to the glacier and maybe even see some ice fall from the giant natural structure.

Without a doubt, this is one of the most  adventurous things to do in Iceland . The impressive Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon is the deepest lake on the island, and the ice that forms its icebergs is believed to be over 10,000 years old.

8. Diamond Beach, one of the top attractions in Iceland

Although Reynisfjara Beach is considered one of the most beautiful in the world,  Diamond Beach  is a worthy rival. This beach also has black sand, which contrasts with the chunks of ice that break off the Vatnajokull glacier and travel through the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon to reach the shore.

It is precisely this contrast of blue ice with volcanic black sand that makes Diamond Beach one of the most popular  attractions in Iceland , as well as one of the most photographed. Here, you can truly see why Iceland is considered the Land of Fire and Ice.

If you’re looking for the best time to visit this place, I suggest going at sunrise when the ice takes on an orange glow. Besides, visiting Diamond Beach is one of the top  things to do in Iceland  if you’re traveling along the  Ring Road , as it’s right at the foot of Highway 1.

9. Hallgrímskirkja & other places to visit in Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík , the capital of the country, is one of the  best cities to visit in Iceland . Among the many  things to do in Reykjavík ,  Hallgrímskirkja  is a must-see. This Lutheran church has a peculiar shape that reflects the hexagonal basalt columns you can see throughout the island.

Hallgrímskirkja’s bell tower is just over 245 feet high, so you can see it from different points in the city. If you want to climb to the top of the tower, you’ll have to pay 1000 ISK (about USD 8.30) for a ticket, but it’s worth it for the amazing views.

9. Hallgrímskirkja & other places in Reykjavík, one of the best cities to visit in Iceland

In addition to this beautiful church, Reykjavík is also home to the  Harpa Concert Hall , which has a futuristic appearance that contrasts the Hallgrímskirkja church. Other places of interest are the famous  Sun Voyager sculpture and the artsy downtown area of  Laugavegur , where you can see cool street art. I also recommend getting a  ticket  to the  Perlan Museum , which is dedicated to the incredible geography of Iceland.

Visiting Reykjavík is one of the  coolest things to do in Iceland , and there are so many attractions to see here. I recommend getting the  Reykjavík City Card , which grants you free admission to several sites, as well as unlimited bus rides and a ferry trip to Viðey Island, another popular spot.

10. Seljalandsfoss, the Icelandic waterfall you can walk behind

Seljalandsfoss  is one of the  waterfalls in Iceland  you must see since, in addition to its beauty, you can walk behind the cascading water.

This waterfall is one of the most incredible  sights to see in Iceland , and it’s especially convenient if you’re traveling the Ring Road. Seljalandsfoss is over 195 feet tall, and there is a small cave just behind the water so you can see the falls from behind. Of course, since it’s one of the most popular things to do in Iceland , the area is always full of tourists, but it’s still worth going to.

Another Icelandic waterfall that’s very close to Seljalandsfoss is  Gljúfrabúi , also known as the Hidden Waterfall or the Secret Waterfall of Iceland. While it’s smaller, at just over 130 feet, it’s much less crowded. Plus, it’s inside a cave, so it’s one of the most magical waterfalls in the country.

I recommend taking advantage of your visit to Seljalandsfoss by taking the short walk to Gljúfrabúi; you won’t regret it!

11. Skógafoss, another famous waterfall in Iceland that you must see

Skógafoss  is another  beautiful place in Iceland  that I recommend visiting. Also known as the Perfect Waterfall, it’s located at the end of the Skógá River, just inside the village of Skógar.

The waterfall has a drop of over 195 feet, but what really makes it spectacular is the surrounding area. The waters cascade over black stones that get covered in green moss in summer and snow in the winter, and the color contrast makes Skógafoss one of the most stunning  landmarks in Iceland .

Another feature that makes Skógafoss special is that you can view it from below or above, although to do the latter you’ll have to climb more than 400 steps. If you can do it, the views are well worth it, and you’ll also find the start of one of  Iceland’s best hiking trails ,  Fimmvörðuháls . It’s a 15.5-mile route that goes to Thórsmörk and passes through glaciers, waterfalls, and lava fields.

While you’re at Skógafoss, I recommend visiting  Kvernufoss , one of Iceland’s secret waterfalls. It’s on the other side of Skógar, and it’s just a 15-minute walk along the path, which is next to the Skógar Museum.

12. Visit Lake Mývatn, an awesome thing to do in North Iceland

Visiting  Lake Mývatn  is one of the best  things to do in North Iceland . The thermal lagoon has become one of the top options for travelers who want to escape the crowds that swarm to the Blue Lagoon. Not only is Lake Mývatn much quieter, but it’s cheaper and just as enjoyable.

The lagoon’s waters have an average temperature of 100° F and come from alkaline natural springs, which is said to make bathing here beneficial for your skin. To be sure that you’ll be able to soak in the hot spring, purchase a  ticket  in advance.

Moreover, next to the lake is the  Hverir geothermal area , also known as Námafjall, and it’s known for its fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and geysers. You can find other  must-see places in Iceland  around here, like the  Grjótagjá Cave , which is a lava cave with a small interior lagoon. While it’s impressive, it’s way too hot to bathe in this pool.

There are other cool  things to see in Iceland ‘s Lake Mývatn area, such as  Dimmuborgir . Its name means “dark castles,” and here you’ll find some unusual volcanic formations that resulted from steam eruptions that took place beneath hot lava. The caverns and carved rock structures are often called the catacombs of hell by Icelanders, so it’s quite the sight!

Finally, I recommend hiking to the summit of the  Hverfjall volcano , from which you’ll get incredible views of the lake. Nearby, you can see the  Krafla volcano, Vití crater , and the  Leirhnjukur lava fields , all of which I recommend visiting if you have time.

13. See the Kerid crater, a must-do in Iceland

A good number of  Iceland’s main attractions  are concentrated in the Golden Circle, including the  Kerid crater .

This crater was formed over 6,500 years ago and stands out for its circular shape and aquamarine lake, which contrasts the surrounding reddish rocks and green moss. You’re not allowed to swim in the lake, but it’s one of the most  unique places in Iceland  worth visiting. You can sit on one of the benches by the lake and enjoy the scenery.

A few years ago, you could visit the crater for free, but now you have to pay 400 ISK (about USD 3.30) to enter. It’s a small price to pay to see this Iceland hot spot !

14. Svartifoss & Skaftafell National Park, two famous landmarks in Iceland

The  Skaftafell National Park  is another  must-see place in Iceland , and here you can find the  Svartifoss waterfall . Also known as the Black Waterfall, the water cascades onto basalt columns, and it’s this contrast of colors that makes it one of the  best waterfalls in Iceland .

This waterfall will leave you speechless any time of year, but it’s at its most beautiful in autumn when the surrounding vegetation turns a lovely orange color.

If you like hiking, then you must do the  Kristínartindar  route, which is one of the  best hiking trails in Iceland . The trail passes through Svartifoss and gives you sweeping views of the glaciers, fjords, and waterfalls that make up Skaftafell National Park. If you’re not sure  what to do in Iceland ‘s national park, I also recommend visiting the  blue ice caves , which I’ll describe below.

15. Visit an ice cave and hike on the Vatnajökull glacier

Hands down, the  best place to go in Iceland  in the winter is an  ice cave . Visiting one of these caverns is like traveling to a magical world, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Of all the excursions out there, I recommend  this tour , which will give you the chance to see the most spectacular ice formations. As you enter the blue ice cave, your guide will explain how the glaciers form and how they’re being affected by climate change.

The tour also includes a hike through the Svínafellsjökull glacial tongue, an incredible  attraction in Iceland  that originates from Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. If you go on a clear day, you can see  Hvannadalshnúkur , the highest point on the island, so it’s a great  thing to do in Iceland  if you love landscape photography.

16. DC-3 Plane Wreck, Iceland’s abandoned plane

The  DC-3 Plane Wreck  is another curious  sight to see in Iceland . This plane belonged to the U.S. Navy, and it crashed on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur in 1973. While the pilot survived, the accident left the aircraft useless, so it was abandoned on the beach. Now, it’s a popular tourist spot in  Iceland to visit .

Until a few years ago, you could get to the wreck in a private car, but now the area is fenced off. So, you can either walk an hour to the crash site or  take this shuttle , an option I recommend if you’re short on time and don’t want to walk.

Moreover, just across the road from the plane wreck is the Sólheimajökul glacier, so be sure to take advantage of visiting it. You can even do  this guided hike , which is another  interesting thing to do in Iceland  if you have a few hours and you’d like to immerse yourself in the environment.

17. Whale-watching in Húsavík, one of the most popular activities in Iceland

For me, one of the  best things to do in Iceland  is  seeing whales in the wild . Witnessing these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat will be one of the highlights of your trip. We took  this tour from Húsavík in northern Iceland since it’s considered the whale capital of the country. It was an incredible experience because we were surrounded by beautiful landscapes in addition to seeing cetaceans and seabirds.

Since these are wild animals, each whale-watching tour is slightly different, and the guides can’t guarantee that you’ll see cetaceans. However, the whales are around the island all year, so, depending on when you go, you’ll have higher chances of seeing them. If you travel in the summer, it’s best to book an excursion from Húsavík or Akureyri in the north. Whale-watching tours from Reykjavík are available throughout the year.

Another thing to remember is that the whale species vary depending on the season. You’ll likely see minke whales, humpbacks, white-nosed dolphins, and porpoises in the summer. If you want to see killer whales, it’s better to go in the winter.

This is one of the top  activities in Iceland , so I recommend reading our guide on  Iceland’s whale-watching tours .

18. See the Northern Lights, the best thing to do in Iceland in the winter

Seeing the Northern Lights  is one of the top  things to do in Iceland  since the island is one of the best places in the world to see auroras. If you dream of seeing this magical celestial show, the  best time to travel to Iceland  is from September to March.

That said, you must consider other factors, such as cloud cover and solar activity. In other words, even if you visit Iceland  during Northern Lights season, you may not see the auroras if the weather conditions are unfavorable.

If it’s your first time hunting auroras, it’s best to book a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík . An expert guide will take you to the spots where you’re most likely to see them, and you’ll be able to repeat the tour for free if you don’t see any the first time.

This is the  best thing to do in Iceland in winter  and to get the most of it, I recommend reading our guide with everything you need to know to  see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

19. See puffins and the midnight sun, one of the best things to do in Iceland in summer

Although the Northern Lights are one of the most popular  things to see in Iceland , there are other spectacular sights to see on the island in summer. This is when the midnight sun occurs, and tens of thousands of puffins arrive on the island.

You can see the  midnight sun  during the summer solstice, which occurs around June 21 in regions above the Arctic Circle. During the midnight sun, the area sees 24 hours of sunlight a day, so it’s one of the most  interesting things to see in Iceland .

There are many ways to enjoy this natural phenomenon, but if you want to make the most of your time, I suggest  this tour , which combines whale and puffin-watching with the midnight sun.

Seeing puffins  is another fun  summer activity in Iceland , particularly from April to August when the birds settle on the island to nest. You can find them in different parts of Iceland, although the best place to see them is in Reynisfjara, the black beach I mentioned earlier. You can also book  this tour  to see puffins while cruising on Reykjavík’s Old Harbour.

20. Stokksnes, one of the most amazing stops on Iceland’s Ring Road

Iceland’s Ring Road  is the most popular route in the country where you can find famous Icelandic landmarks, including the  black beach of Stokksnes .

This beach is in the southeast part of the island and stands out for its black dunes covered with golden straw and the impressive views of the  Vestrahorn  mountain in the distance. It’s no wonder why such an idyllic place is one of the  top attractions in Iceland .

To get to Stokksnes, you must go through the private area at the  Viking Café , so if you’re not staying at this hotel, you’ll have to pay 900 ISK (about USD 7.50). If you look at the visitor reviews, you’ll see that many travelers say that it’s not worth it, but if you’re into photography, it’s a  must-see in Iceland , and we always include it in our  Iceland photo tours .

Besides, Stokksnes is also home to the Viking village where they shot the popular  Vikings  series, so it’s quite interesting. It’s also a good  place to visit in Iceland  if you want beautiful views without the tourist crowds.

21. Dettifoss and Selfoss, two beautiful places in Iceland you should see

Dettifoss and Selfoss are two other waterfalls to see in Iceland. Both are within the course of the same Fjöllum River in northern Iceland.

Dettifoss  is the largest waterfall in the country (and all of Europe) and is located between two waterfalls, Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss. Dettifoss has a drop of nearly 150 feet, and it’s nearly 330 feet wide. The water flow can vary depending on the time of year, but it’s always an impressive sight to see.

The  Selfoss  waterfall is considered one of the country’s most impressive falls. While it’s only 36 feet tall, it has a peculiar, elongated shape that makes it one of the  most beautiful places in Iceland . During your visit, I suggest also seeing the  Hafragilsfoss  waterfall, which is lesser-known but still magnificent.

To get there, you’ll need a 4×4 to drive on Highway 864, which is unpaved but leads to the best views. If you don’t have the appropriate vehicle, you can take Highway 862. It’s paved, but the views from here aren’t as good.

22. Visit the Godafoss waterfall, another thing to do in northern Iceland

Goðafoss , also known as the Waterfall of the Gods, is another  beautiful place in Iceland  that you should see.

It lies within the course of the Skjálfandafljót River and is within walking distance of the Ring Road. At 40 feet high and about 100 feet wide, it’s quite impressive.

This  Iceland attraction  also has a legend surrounding it, which says that when the Christians came to the island, they threw the statues of the Norse gods into the water, which is why Goðafoss is called the Waterfall of the Gods.

If you have a 4×4, you can take advantage of your visit to Goðafoss and also see the  Aldeyjarfoss  and  Hrafnabjargafoss  waterfalls, two other  Icelandic landmarks . Aldeyjarfoss is my favorite waterfall, and, like Svartifoss, it cascades over black basalt columns. However, Aldeyjarfoss is much taller, and its deep blue water is mesmerizing. Hrafnabjargafoss is upstream.

23. Kirkjufell & the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, some of the best places in Iceland

Kirkjufell  is one of the top  Iceland tour spots  and the most photographed mountain in the country, thanks to its appearance in  Game of Thrones . At 1,520 feet high, its peculiar conical shape makes it easily recognizable. It’s a must-see on Iceland’s  Snæfellsnes Peninsula  and is especially beautiful at sunset or at night during Northern Lights season.

One of the drawbacks of this place is its popularity, so you’ll find quite a few tourists here. If you want to visit the  Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall  at sunset with the Kirkjufell mountain in the background, you’ll have to get there about an hour beforehand to secure a good spot.

While you’re on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, I suggest also visiting  Arnarstapi and Hellnar , two charming fishing villages. It’s best to hike the trail that goes from one town to the other so you can enjoy the landscapes full of cliffs, nesting seabirds, and the Gatklettur Arch.

Another interesting  place to go in Iceland ‘s Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the  Vatnshellir lava cave , which is about 8,000 years old. You can walk up to 650 feet into the cave, and it’s within the  Snæfellsjökull National Park , a great area for hiking. The peninsula is also home to the famous black  Búdakirkja church  and  Ytri Tunga beach , where you can see wild seals.

24. Landmannalaugar, the most popular area to visit in the Highlands of Iceland

If you’re looking for  things to do in Iceland in summer , I recommend going to  Landmannalaugar , the most popular area in the  Icelandic Highlands . You’ll need a 4×4 to cross the F-roads that lead to this area, which is where you’ll find one of the most active volcanoes in the country, the  Hekla volcano .

Landmannalaugar stands out for its beautiful rhyolite mountains, its fascinating hiking trails, and its hot springs, which have an average temperature of 98.6° F to 104° F.

In addition to its hot springs, Landmannalaugar’s main attraction is  Brennisteinsalda , Iceland’s most colorful mountain. It’s close to a campsite as well as longer hiking trails. If you have the time and enjoy hikes, I recommend the  Laugavegur route , which takes 3-4 days and leads to Thórsmörk. There is also the  Bláhnúkur route , known as the blue mountain, which takes just 4-5 hours.

On the way to Landmannalaugar, you can stop at a few other cool  places in Iceland ‘s Highlands. For example, there are the  Haifoss and Granni  waterfalls and the lovely lakes of  Bláhylur ,  Ljótipollur ,   and  Frostastaðavatn . I also recommend the  Sigöldugljufur Canyon and its many waterfalls, and the Stutur Volcanic Crater, also known as the apple volcano for its small size, perfect shape, and red and green color, depending on the season.

25. Thórsmörk, one of the most remote places to see in Iceland

Thórsmörk , while one of the most remote places, is another  must-visit in Iceland . I don’t recommend going there on your own, not even in a 4×4, because you have to ford a few large and potentially dangerous rivers. Instead, it’s best to book a bus to Thórsmörk  here  or take  this tour  from Reykjavík.

This mountainous area is perfect for lovers of nature and hiking, so if you’re like us, this is one of the  best attractions in Iceland . Besides, some of the most important  hiking trails in Iceland  pass through this valley.

The two most popular routes are  Fimmvörðuháls , which connects Skógar with Thórsmörk; and  Laugavegur , which connects Landmannalaugar and Thórsmörk. The first is about 18.5 miles, while the second is 34 miles, so you’ll need several days to complete either of the two.

If you don’t have the time, you can do a shorter trail, such as  Valahnukur , which is less than 3 miles. There is also the  Tindfjöll Circle , which is just over 10 miles. Whichever route you take, you’ll be in for a treat since Thórsmörk has some of the most magical landscapes on the island.

26. Fly over Iceland’s glacial rivers by helicopter

Some of the top  sightseeing tours in Iceland  are the  helicopter rides over the country’s glacial rivers . I can tell you that seeing the island and its vast geography from a bird’s eye view is an incredible experience.

To get the most of your flight, I recommend reading through our guide on the  best helicopter tours in Iceland , as there are many excursions and they each have something unique to offer. Of course, all of them will introduce you to Iceland’s various landscapes, including glacial rivers, lava fields, volcanoes, and lakes. Moreover, if you’re into photography like us, you’ll have plenty of things to shoot!

We did  this tour , which allowed us to customize our itinerary based on our preferences. We were able to see some of the most amazing places in Iceland, such as the Katla volcano, Thingvellir National Park, Vatnajökull glacier, several geysers, and other incredible sights. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so I encourage you not to miss out!

27. Hveravellir and Kerlingarfjöll, two incredible sites to see in Iceland’s Highlands

In the  Highlands of Iceland , you’ll find plenty of interesting places, including  Hveravellir and Kerlingarfjöll . They’re both accessible via the F-35 road, which runs from the northern part of the island to the south.

Hveravellir  is a geothermal area with several natural pools. This was one of our favorite  places to go in Iceland , and we loved it so much that we spent a night in the mountain refuge here. Not only are the thermal baths wonderful, but the landscape is also quite spectacular.

Kerlingarfjöll  is another awesome area to  visit in Iceland  within the Highlands, especially if you like hiking. Here, you can spend the whole day walking among rhyolite hills, valleys, glaciers, and areas teeming with geothermal activity. The most striking thing about Kerlingarfjöll is that in the summer you can see snow on the taller peaks. Don’t worry if you’re short on time because you can still take the Hveradalir route, which is the best of all the trails.

While you don’t have to ford any large rivers to get to Hveravellir or Kerlingarfjöll, keep in mind that they’re in the Icelandic Highlands, so you can only visit during the summer months because the roads are too dangerous in the winter. You’ll still need a 4×4 in the summer, so if you have any concerns, be sure to read our article on  how to drive in Iceland .

28. Fjadrargljufur, the canyon you must see in Iceland

The  Fjadrargljufur Canyon  is another impressive  attraction in Iceland  that you can’t miss. It’s in the southern part of the island and has become one of the most magnificent places to visit, as the canyon is nearly 330 feet deep and over a mile long.

It’s estimated that the canyon took 9,000 years to form as the Fjaðrá River slowly eroded. Also, the type of moss that grows on the canyon’s edges is very fragile, so the Icelandic government had to close the area to prevent foot traffic from trampling it. There is a designated pathway, so if you visit, stay on the trail. Destroying a natural marvel that took thousands of years to create just for a photo isn’t worth it!

Along with the  Sigöldugljufur Canyon , Fjadrargljufur is one of my favorites. That said, I can’t forget the  Stuðlagil Canyon  in eastern Iceland, specifically in the Jökuldalur glacial valley. It’s a bit out of the way, but it’s so beautiful that it’s part of most Ring Road itineraries.

This canyon stands out for its numerous basaltic columns that contrast the intense blue of the glacial river. You can visit this popular  Icelandic site from the east or west sides, although I recommend the longer route that goes through the eastern side. This way, you can descend to the river and get amazing views.

29. Reykjanes Peninsula and the best things to do near Iceland’s airport

The  Reykjanes Peninsula  is another  scenic place in Iceland  that you should visit. This is where you’ll find the Blue Lagoon, as well as Keflavik International Airport. So, you can maximize your time on your day of arrival or your return trip to this area.

Along with the Blue Lagoon, the Reykjanes Peninsula is popular for the recent eruption of the  Fagradalsfjall volcano , which resulted in some incredible sights.

Scientists still aren’t sure how long the lava in this area will last, but regardless, the peninsula has other interesting sites to check out. This includes the famous  Krýsuvík geothermal area , where you’ll find the Seltún geothermal field. It’s full of fumaroles, bubbling pools, and hot springs.

The peninsula is also home to the  volcanic rock cliffs of Valahnúkamöl ; its postcard-perfect scenery makes it a  must-see in Iceland . I also recommend  this tour , which takes you to the  Thrihnukagigur volcano .

In case it’s Northern Lights seasons, I recommend going to the area around lakes Kleifarvatn and Gígvatnsvatn . This is one of my favorite  places in Iceland  to see the auroras. If the  Northern Lights forecast  is good, another spot I recommend is  Straumur við álverið .

30. West Fjords, the most remote area to visit in Iceland

Finally, another  tourist attraction in Iceland that you shouldn’t miss is the Westfjords. This beautiful place is full of interesting sites, such as the Dynjandi waterfall . Also known as the wedding veil for its willowy appearance, it’s one of the country’s tallest waterfalls. Part of what makes it so stunning is that it’s made of seven falls that, together, reach nearly 330 feet high.

Also in this area, you’ll find the  Latrabjarg cliffs , which are home to several species of seabirds, including the crowd-pleasing puffins. Visiting these cliffs and seeing the cute birds is one of the  best things to do in Iceland in the summer .

Raudasandur Beach  is another  must-see in Iceland , as its sandy beaches have a distinct pink color.

Last but not least, I recommend going to  Ísafjörður  and taking a boat to the  Hornstrandir Nature Reserve . Since it’s a remote area and you can only get there by boat, you won’t find too many tourists. It’s worth the extra time and effort because the striking landscape is full of hiking trails that you can explore. This region is also the home of the arctic fox, so if you’re lucky, you might spot one!

Now you know all the  best places to visit in Iceland , the Land of Fire and Ice! I suggest taking a look at our tourist maps of Iceland , so you can locate all your preferred attractions and organize your trip much more easily.

Iceland is one of the most beautiful countries on earth, so I know you’ll like this place as much as we do. Also, I’ve written a guide on  where to stay in Iceland , which I’m sure will be helpful as you plan your trip.

If you have any questions about these  places to visit in Iceland , you can leave me a comment below, and I’ll help as much as I can. Now, all that’s left to do is wish you a happy journey!

Ascen Aynat

12 replies on “ 30 Best Things to Do in Iceland + MAP ”

Amazing island need to go back soon

I can’t wait either. We will come back to Iceland in three weeks!

Am very glad that I found your blog. I will be on a tour for most of my time in Iceland this August, but am spending an additional 4.5 days on my own at the end. I am renting a car from Lotus and have reserved lodgings through Airbnb and Booking.com. It was difficult to find reasonably priced lodgings in South and East Iceland. I will not have my own bathroom, but will have a sink in my room. For my 3 choices, I snagged the last available room. My guest houses all had great ratings and look like they have personality. Meanwhile I did try unsuccessfully to download your maps into maps.me. I probably need to find a teenager. However, I am getting wifi in my rental car so I can use google or maps.me for my navigation. With wifi I will be able to make phone calls if necessary using Whatsapp or Vibr. Am looking forward to my adventure. Thank you for a very thorough blog. I you want me to provide you feedback on my lodging choices, I will be happy to do so. The guest house in Djupivogur sounds amazing. As I do not have much time, due to having to get a COVID test in Reykjavik the day before leaving, I am spending 2 nights in Kirkjabaejarklaustur with the one night in Djupivogur in between those 2 nights. This is an attempt to reduce the hours driving each day and to reduce driving time back to Reykjavik to under 3.5 hours so I can get my test and still have time to prowl afterwards. My tour does not go further South east than Vik, but does cover Akureyri, Godafoss, and Lake Myvatn in the North. Now to figure out how to pronounce these names.

Hi Debbie, We usually switch from one accommodation to another every day so we can be closer to the attractions we want to visit, is that your plan?

Hi there, thanks for all the incredible info!! This has made my trip planning so much easier. 🙂 I noticed though that you didn’t mention any of the volcano and lava tube tours in your list. One of the main things calling me to Iceland is the volcanoes. Have you done any of those tours and do you have any recommendations or advice about them at all? Thank you!

Thanks for your message!

There are many volcanoes in Iceland but none of them are spitting lava at the moment. On the other hand, there are a few Volcanic caves that you can visit throughout the island. In the post, we mentioned the one I took in the snæfellness peninsula, in the cave where Jules Verne was inspired to write “Journey to the center of the earth”. I highly recommend that cave, it wasn’t very expensive and you really feel like being in another world 😉

This is probably the best travel blog I’ve ever read! Incredibly informative and accompanied by some absolutely stunning photos! Thank you for taking the time to share your experience in this wonderful article!!

Thanks Kevin for your kind words about our blog! 😉

Hi thanks for a really informative piece on visiting Iceland. My primary reason for visiting is to see the spectacular icebergs and glacial lagoons. When would you recommend a visit to see these at their best? Wendy

You can (still) find small “icebergs” and pieces of ice in the Glacial lagoon throughout the year. The amount of ice will depend mainly on the season (more in early spring, less in summer), but it depends on the glaciers. Going in late march you’ll have high chances of seeing big chunks of ice in Iceland 😉

Hello, Thank you for all the helpful information! Your photos are beautiful! I was looking at your gallery of Iceland and there was one photo that I couldn’t quite place. It looks like a panorama of a lake surrounded by mountains with a peak in the background. On the slideshow it located between Sigöldugljufur and Skogafoss. Would you mind sharing where you went for that shot? Thank you so much!

Hi, Thanks for your beautiful words about my work!

That photo was taken in the Icelandic highlands. It was taken from a vantage point in the way towards landmannalaugar. To be honest, I don’t even know if that location has a name, I was just struck by its beauty!

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

20 Best Places To Visit In Iceland (+ Unique Attractions)

December 27, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Iceland for your upcoming trip to the land of fire and ice? We’ve got you covered with 20 of the most awe-inspiring, unique locations all around the country. 

Iceland’s appeal lies in its remarkable natural landscape making it an outdoor playground for adventure enthusiasts. From thundering waterfalls and imposing mountains to relaxing hot springs and unusual beaches, there’s more than enough to capture your attention for the duration of your visit. 

The landscapes throughout the country vary greatly. One moment you’ll find yourself traveling through a lava rock-filled volcanic landscape, and the next you’re watching icebergs float to shore. Though this list we’ve put together of places to visit in Iceland covers only a fraction of the beauty this country has to offer, it’s a great place to start. 

Relax In The Mineral-Rich Waters Of The Blue Lagoon

As one of the most iconic tourist locations in the country, the Blue Lagoon should certainly be on your list of the top places to visit in Iceland. Relax in luxury as you soak in the mineral-rich, healing, milky-blue waters and enjoy the unique lava rock-filled scenery surrounding you. 

What once was an accidental collection of discarded water from a nearby geothermal power plant has now become a breathtaking lagoon complete with a swim-up bar along with options to pay more to enjoy the spa, restaurants, and hotels on property. Though even the base price to enjoy the lagoon is expensive, it’s worth it to have the experience at least once. 

Located nearby the Keflavik International Airport, the Blue Lagoon is a common first stop upon arriving in Iceland or last stop on the way out. Whenever you choose to visit, be sure to book well in advance as its ever-growing popularity makes it nearly impossible to book last minute. 

Where To Stay: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

Hike Through The Vast, Impressive Landscape At Thorsmork

In the summer months when the weather is favorable and road conditions are decent, Thorsmork is one of the best places to visit in Iceland. This beautiful nature preserve is a valley located in the highlands making it tricky to reach, but serene and peaceful once you’re there. 

Because the valley is hard to reach, especially for the average tourist, you must be driving a high clearance 4×4 car that is suitable for tackling the numerous river crossings and rocky terrain. Another option is to hire a local guide who will drive you in their super Jeep to make the process easier. 

Thorsmork is one of the best Iceland vacation spots for experienced hikers eager to explore the vast and rugged landscape. Consider trekking to the top of Valahnukur for particularly impressive views. 

Where To Stay: Volcano Huts Þórsmörk

Snorkel the Silfra fissure

Thingvellir National Park , along Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle route, is one of the best places to visit in Iceland for a number of reasons including the fact that you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel between two continents . 

In the national park you’ll find the Silfra fissure, the space between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Naturally filtered glacier water from Thingvallavatn Lake fills the fissure making it some of the cleanest and clearest water you’ll ever have the opportunity to experience. 

These pristine conditions make the fissure ideal for snorkeling as you can see practically everything and anything around you within 100 meters.

If you decide you’d like to take part in this remarkably unique experience, go ahead and book a tour where you’ll be given a dry suit and other proper snorkel gear and be led through the fissure by a guide. As one of the top attractions in Iceland, you’ll want to book your tour well in advance particularly if you plan on visiting during the high season summer months. 

Where To Stay: ION Adventure Hotel

Learn About Icelandic Culture And Enjoy Great Food In Reykjavik

Much of Iceland’s appeal lies in its unique, diverse natural landscape. It’s a hot spot for adventure enthusiasts who love the great outdoors. That being said, its charming capital city should not be overlooked. If you’re wondering where to visit in Iceland, Reykjavik is a great place to start . 

Reykjavik offers a wonderful glimpse into Icelandic culture, provides excellent dining options , and is the perfect spot to shop for a souvenir to take home. 

The city is full of great museums including Perlan’s “Wonders of Iceland,” the Settlement Exhibition with an excavated Viking longhouse at its center, and the Arbær Open Air Museum which provides a home for preserved old sod roof Icelandic buildings. Each museum is unique, fascinating, and highly educational. 

However you choose to spend your time in the city, a trip downtown is not complete without a visit to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church with the statue of Leif Erikson standing guard out front. An admission fee will get you to the tower at the top of the church where you are graced with a 360-degree view of Reykjavik and beyond. 

Where To Stay: Fosshotel Reykjavík

Climb To The Top Of The Cascading Dynjandi Waterfall

The Westfjords is one of the best places to visit in Iceland, and Dynjandi is arguably its crowning glory. Dynjandi is a series of seven cascading waterfalls with the largest, thundering waterfall being at the top. 

The waterfall is unlike any of Iceland’s other major waterfalls in appearance. We realize Iceland has many other spectacular waterfalls, most of which are closer to Reykjavik but the unique sight of Dynjandi is one you won’t want to miss. Reaching widths of 30-60m and a height of 100m, the waterfall streams down the mountainside like a brilliant, sparkling bridal veil. 

If you’re not in the mood for hiking, a striking view of the seven waterfalls can be seen right from the parking lot. If however you’d like to make your way to the largest waterfall and pass the other six along the way, a short but steep hike of around 15 minutes will allow you to get an up-close view of this natural beauty. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Isafjordur – Horn

Visit Iceland’s Only Stave Church On Heimaey

Vestmannaeyjar is a series of islands off the south coast of Iceland, the largest of which is called Heimaey. Its abundance of adorable puffins, fascinating volcanic landscape, and breathtaking views make it one of the best places to visit in Iceland. 

That’s not all that makes the island unique and worth visiting however. Down by the harbor you’ll find the Heimaey Stave Church, a gift from Norway to commemorate the 1000 year anniversary of Iceland adopting Christianity. 

This pitch-black church also happens to be the only stave church in Iceland. With lava rock and the ocean nearby, the whole area with the church as the centerpiece makes for a spectacular scene. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Vestmannaeyjar

Marvel At The Icebergs At The Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon And Diamond Beach

In the southeast lies the Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach , two of the most beautiful places in Iceland. At the Glacier Lagoon, deep blue and white icebergs with streaks of black float in the lagoon with a majestic glacier in the background. 

If you’re visiting in the summer you can choose to take a boat tour and explore the icebergs up close getting a more accurate picture of their size and imposing nature. This icy beauty is one of the top places to visit in Iceland for tourists. 

Across the street you’ll find Diamond Beach where the smaller iceberg chunks float up to the shore. Enjoy walking along the beach, winding your way through the sparkling icebergs. 

The black sand of the beach provides a stark contrast to the icebergs creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape. It’s particularly magical at sunset when the sky lights up and casts a beautiful yellow hue over the surroundings. 

Where To Stay: Skyrhúsid Guest House

Admire The Power And Beauty Of Skogafoss Waterfall

One of the best places to go in Iceland when driving the south coast is the thundering waterfall, Skogafoss . Iceland’s south coast is full of impressive waterfalls, and this is no exception. 

To get a taste of the size and scope of the waterfall, follow the pebble path and take a stroll up to its base. Bring a raincoat and brace for the spray that inevitably comes with viewing a powerful waterfall that close. 

Another option is to climb roughly 500 steps to the top of the waterfall. Your quads might feel the burn but the views from above are worth it. Watching Skogá river transform into a waterfall as it plunges over the edge of the cliff while birds soar by is a breathtaking experience. 

Take a moment to turn around and look back towards the parking lot and admire the sprawling landscape of the south coast while you’re at it. 

Where To Stay: The Garage

Hike To The Brilliant Blue Bruarfoss Waterfall

The size of Bruarfoss pales in comparison to many of Iceland’s other waterfalls, however its brilliant blue water cascading down the rocks makes it one of the best places to visit in Iceland. The color is so remarkable it almost looks as though it’s been painted. 

Reaching Bruarfoss required 4 miles of round trip hiking which can be a deterrent to some, but makes for a much more peaceful experience for those willing to make the trek. Your hike will take you by a couple of smaller waterfalls as well making the journey all the more worth it. 

Typing “Bruarfoss Waterfall Official Parking” into Google Maps will get you to the right spot. From there the hiking path is easy to find. 

Where To Stay: Farmhotel Efstidalur

Photograph The Postcard-Worthy Kirkjufell Mountain

Kirkjufell (Church Mountain) is one of the most iconic places to visit in Iceland. It was featured in the Game of Thrones TV show and is found on a postcard or two in every souvenir shop in the country. This cone-shaped mountain is found on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula . 

Though it’s possible to hike to the top of the mountain with a guide and some serious energy exertion, the best view of Kirkjufell is from the three-tiered Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall where you can capture the postcard image of the waterfall in the foreground and the mountain in the background. 

The landscape is beautiful at any time of year and is worth visiting multiple times to experience it in different seasons. In winter, brilliant white snow drapes itself over the mountain while portions of the waterfall freeze into icicles. In the summer, a coat of mossy green covers the landscape and wildflowers dot the scene. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Búdir

Drive The Iconic Golden Circle Route To Gullfoss, Geyser, And Thingvellir

The iconic Golden Circle route features Thingvellir National Park, Geyser, and Gullfoss, three major Iceland tourist attractions you won’t want to miss. Spanning 190 miles of Iceland’s dramatic landscape, the Golden Circle offers the perfect introduction to the natural wonders this remarkable country has to offer.

You can choose to drive the route yourself in a rental car or book a Golden Circle tour to have it all planned out for you.

Thingvellir National Park is a historic gem that provided a home for Iceland’s first parliament back in 930 AD. It also gives you the rare opportunity to cross over or snorkel through the great rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. 

At Strokkur geyser in the heart of the geothermally active Haukadalur Valley, you’ll have the opportunity to watch an impressive eruption roughly every 5-7 minutes. The area is also home to Geysir, though this geyser has been inactive for many years now making its active neighbor Strokkkur the star of the show. If you walk the area you’ll also find an abundance of rising steam and holes of boiling water. 

The Gullfoss waterfall completes this remarkable trio and is truly a sight to behold. You’ll see the Hvita River thundering down in two sections as it goes crashing into a deep crevice. As you get closer to the waterfall you’ll feel its spray. On a sunny day, you might be fortunate enough to see a rainbow span the width of the waterfall.

Where To Stay: Frost and Fire Hotel

Walk On Water On The Stokksness Peninsula

Vestrahorn Mountain (nicknamed “Batman Mountain”), with its jagged peaks, sits along the edge of the ocean surrounded by black sand, tufts of seagrass, and beautiful purple arctic lupines in the summer. This imposing mountain is located on the Stokksness Peninsula and is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland. 

An 800 ISK entrance fee paid at the Viking Café gives you access to the beach and the Viking village film set beside Vestrahorn. Though this area is stunning regardless of the circumstances, it becomes even more spectacular when a thin layer of water coats the beach right up to the mountain, and as you make your way over the sand staring at the reflection of the mountain, it looks as though you’re walking on water. 

If you have the opportunity, you might consider visiting this landscape at sunrise or sunset to see the vibrant colors frame the mountain and reflect in the water. On high aurora activity nights, you might be lucky enough to catch the Northern Lights dancing over the mountain as well. 

Where To Stay: Glacier World-Hoffell Guesthouse

Soak In The Warm Waters Of The Hrunalaug Hot Springs

Between the public pools, hot springs , and hot rivers, it’s important you pack a swimsuit for your trip. One of the best places to visit in Iceland if you’re looking for a relaxing soak in the middle of nature is the Hrunalaug Hot Springs.

A large hot pot and a smaller, bathtub sized hot pot await you surrounded by a landscape that bursts with green grasses, moss, and yellow flowers in the summer. These hot springs are becoming increasingly popular so we suggest heading there in the early morning or late evening to avoid the larger crowds. 

Though the hot pots were built up and fortified for human use, they struggle to accommodate the increasing tourist crowds and often destructive or careless behavior of visitors. Please pick up after yourself and leave the area around the hot pots (including the small changing hut) clean so others can enjoy the beauty of this unique experience as well. 

Where To Stay: Guesthouse Fludir – Grund

Hike Through A Steam Filled Valley To The Reykjadalur Hot Springs

A hike in Reykjadalur Valley has everything. It gives you a chance to explore the beautiful Icelandic landscape, stretch your legs and get your heart pumping, see a waterfall, walk through steam, befriend some sheep, and soak in a hot river. 

The Reykjadalur Hot Springs is one of the best places to visit in Iceland in the summer when the hills are lush and green and the midnight sun allows for late-night hiking in the soft glow of a sun that seemingly refuses to set. 

A 45-minute hike of moderate difficulty will take you to the bathing section of the river where cold and hot water mix to create the perfect temperature. Lining the river are wood partitions where you can change and leave your belongings, and where sheep occasionally sunbathe. 

The river is sectioned off by small rock walls with the deepest pockets and best bathing sections being right by each wall. When you’ve had your fill of the river and feel rejuvenated, you’ll make the mostly downhill hike back to the parking lot.

Where To Stay: Hotel Örk  

Take Pictures At The Sight Of The Eerie Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

There is an abundance of stunning black sand beaches all over the country, but the 1973 DC-3 Navy plane crash makes Solheimasandur Beach particularly unique. Much about this wreck remains a mystery, but we do know that everyone survived the crash and the hollow fuselage was left behind. 

The remains of the white plane lie in stark contrast to the black sand and you’re left with a rather eerie and dramatic scene. Tourists flock to the site of the wreck which remains one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. This is truly one of the best things to do in Vik!

There are a number of options for reaching the site. The first is to walk 2 miles through a flat, black rock/sand-filled landscape. Though there’s not a lot to see along the way and the wind can prove difficult at times, it’s a great way to stretch your legs and used to be the only way to reach the plane. If you’re short on time or just don’t feel like walking you can pay to take a shuttle bus to and from the site for a quick and easy trip.

Where To Stay: Volcano Hotel

Take In The Breathtaking Site Of The Tall And Powerful Haifoss

Haifoss along with its slightly smaller (but still mighty) neighbor Granni are two of Iceland’s most beautiful and impressive waterfalls . However, because they are located at the edge of the highlands and require some skillful navigating to reach, they’re far less frequented than Iceland’s other south coast waterfalls. 

Haifoss should definitely be on your list of places to go in Iceland in the summer. The roads are typically inaccessible in the winter meaning summertime might be your only opportunity to visit. Besides that, the vibrant green moss of summer gives a splash of life to the scene. 

Once you make it to Haifoss, you can take a small stroll from the parking lot to view the waterfall from a distance allowing you to capture the full image of the waterfall thundering down the cliffside. If you have plenty of time to spend at this location, you can also choose to hike down closer to the waterfall. 

Where To Stay: Rjúpnavellir

Walk Around And Behind The Towering Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

South Iceland is full of stunning waterfalls and Seljalandsfoss will be your first stop on your south coast waterfalls adventure. Seljalandsfoss is one of the most popular places to visit in Iceland because of its beauty and its proximity to Iceland’s Ring Road . 

This 200-foot stunner is easily visible from the road. A path will lead you from the parking lot to the waterfall where you can continue around the backside of the waterfall. Come prepared with rain gear because the spray from this powerful waterfall will hit you particularly on windy days. 

Surrounded by wildflowers and greenery in the summer, and sparking ice/snow in the winter, this narrow but formidable waterfall is the perfect way to kickstart your south coast adventures. 

Where To Stay: Paradise Cave Hostel & Guesthouse

Watch Crashing Sleeper Waves At The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

It can be argued that the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is not only one of the best places to visit in Iceland, it’s also the country’s most popular black sand beach. As you look out towards the raging Atlantic Ocean with basalt columns behind you, you’ll understand why. 

The area is also home to many unusual rock formations including two that rise out of the sea as well as the natural bridge, Dyrholaey, in the distance. The black sand, dark rock formations, and turbulent seas make for a stormy and somewhat ominous, but impressive scene. 

As you enjoy the spectacular scenery, be sure to stay on the lookout for sleeper waves. These large, dramatic waves are mesmerizing to watch, but they pose a threat to the unaware tourist who ventures too close. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Kría

Admire The Sheer Power And Force Of Dettifoss 

If you’re looking for powerful waterfalls that will leave you picking your jaw up off of the floor, then Dettifoss is one of the best places to visit in Iceland. By the time you reach northern Iceland you’ve no doubt seen a whole collection of impressive waterfalls along the way, but you haven’t experienced true power until you’ve watched the glacier water of Dettifoss plunge over the cliff’s edge. 

Dettifoss has been labeled the most powerful waterfall in Europe. You have the privilege of observing this beast from either side, though you’ll need to decide on a side (or choose both) ahead of time as they require different driving routes and parking lots that are an hour apart. 

If you’re looking to get right up close to the waterfall then the east side is the way to go. Either option however will allow you to experience the beauty and sheer power of Dettifoss. On both sides, just a quick walk from the parking lot will put you face to face with this impressive force of nature. 

Where To Stay: Nordic Natura

Sit And Soak In The Cascading Beauty Of Godafoss

As you travel through the north of Iceland you’ll want to take time to stop at Godafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods. This beauty is drastically different from Dettifoss, the other of North Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. 

Godafoss presents itself in a half-circle of elegantly streaming water that collects in a brilliantly blue pool at its base. It’s not a particularly tall waterfall but its unusual shape and width is where its beauty lies. As a result of its unique nature, it remains one of the most popular things to see in Iceland. 

Some of the best views can be found from the west side where you can stand or sit level with the top of the waterfall. If you’d prefer to walk down to the pool, make your way to the east side where you’ll find a path down. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Laxá

We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to explore and immerse yourself in the remarkable landscapes of Iceland. You’re in for a real treat as this country has nothing but unique, memorable experiences to offer. 

With so many spectacular sites, it’s hard to go wrong when choosing which thrilling Iceland vacation spots to visit. If you’d like some help picking the best of the best, we hope this list will provide you with the guidance you need. 

If you have any questions or comments as you go about deciding which of these locations you must see in Iceland while visiting, please feel free to send us a message below.

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18 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on March 26, 2024

From awe-inspiring glaciers to geothermal springs and active volcanoes, Iceland is a place where nature always takes center stage. Even in the nation’s lively capital of Reykjavik, views of the sea and nearby mountains steal the show. Isolated from the rest of Europe for centuries, this land of fire and ice has a unique cultural heritage of literature, music and cuisine that you’ll find captivating too.

With their self-reliant spirit and deep sense of community, the Icelandic people are just as enchanting as any of the best places to visit in Iceland. Illuminated by the Northern Lights in the winter and the midnight sun in the summer, Iceland shines in any season, offering you a travel experience unlike anywhere else on the planet.

Map of Iceland

18. Goðafoss

Located right in the north of Iceland, just off its looping ring road, is the gorgeous Goðafoss. Meaning ‘Waterfall of the Gods’, its jet white waters make for some fabulous photos as they plunge their way over its craggy precipice. One of the most important sights in the region, it can be reached in around about 45 minutes’ drive from Akureyri.

Stretching 30 meters in total, the horseshoe-shaped falls standout dramatically against the rugged cliffs around them. While the origins of its name are uncertain, legend has it that the law speaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði chucked his statues of the Norse gods into the waterfall when Iceland adopted Christianity around the year 999. Whatever the reason, both its sheer power and staggering beauty certainly have something divine about them.

17. Akureyri

The unofficial capital of North Iceland, Akureyri makes for a great base from which to see all its nearby mountains, glaciers and waterfalls. Still quite small and sleepy, it has a charming old town and some cool little art galleries to stop by. Most people mainly visit though for its beautiful botanical garden which is full of pretty local flowers and plants.

Actually the largest town outside of the southwest, it is set in a stunning spot at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord. Other than admiring all the stained-glass windows in its church or ambling about its art museum, you can take unforgettable cruises or whale watching tours along its scenic coastline. Otherwise, some of its other main sights found nearby include the gigantic Goðafoss waterfall and milky-blue Myvatn Nature Baths.

16. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Down in the south is one of Iceland’s most spectacular sites; the phenomenal Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. Snaking its way for two kilometers through the rock, its steep, moss-coated walls are often featured on TV shows and the front of travel magazines. While hiking along its winding trails, there are loads of unbelievable viewpoints for you to stop off at.

Formed millennia ago during the last Ice Age, the jagged gorge plunges up to 100 metres in depth at places. At times, little twinkling waterfalls tumble down its cliff faces to the freezing Fjadra river below. A must-see, the fairytale-like ‘feather river canyon’ – as its name means in Icelandic – lies just off the ring road, outside of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

15. Skaftafell

An hour’s drive further east of the awe-inspiring canyon are all the majestic mountains and glaciers of Skaftafell. Once a national park in its own right, its wild reaches are now included as part of the vast Vatnajokull. From its visitor center, there are tons of terrific hikes, guided walks and horseback riding excursions you can do.

Very reminiscent of the Alps, its sweeping valleys and soaring peaks have been shaped over the aeons by both roaring rivers and volcanic eruptions. Here you can hike to the glittering Skaftafellsjökull glacier or scale the 2,110 metre-high Hvannadalshnjúkur – Iceland’s tallest mountain. Its other main highlight are all the astonishing hexagonal basalt columns that are clustered about the Svartifoss waterfall.

14. Skogafoss

Standing 60 meters tall, Skogafoss is yet another of the countless, incredible waterfalls that seem to dot the entire country. Easily visited at the same time as Vik’s black sandy beaches or Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, it lies along the South Coast, right by the ring road. The falls’ wild waters look absolutely stunning, either from their foot or the clifftop viewpoint beside them.

Remarkably enough, its white wall of water cascades its way off of what was once the isle’s coastline, until the Atlantic eventually receded away. Due to its huge height, the waterfall’s misty spray often produces a magical double rainbow, normally visible on sunny days. Over the years, it has appeared in not just successful TV shows like Game of Thrones and Vikings but massive hit movies such as Thor: The Dark World too.

13. Snaefellsnes National Park

Located roughly a three hour-drive from Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes National Park has loads of exciting activities and unforgettable scenery for visitors to enjoy. Named after its immense, glacier-capped stratovolcano, it occupies the end of a rugged peninsula in West Iceland. One of the nation’s main symbols, it also contains arresting black beaches and rock formations.

Sometimes spied all the way from the capital, the hulking great volcano is thought to have been formed around 700,000 years ago. While its dazzling ice cap glints in the sunshine, its dramatic lava-scarred slopes slowly give way to the sea. At Londrangar, there are some epic coastal cliffs to take photos of while seals, seabirds and even whales are spotted offshore.

12. Vik Beaches

A small, quiet village along the South Coast, Vik is best known for its two breathtaking black sand beaches. Amazing to see, Reynisfjara and Vikurfjara are backed by great big cliffs and colossal basalt columns. A photographer’s dream, their striking shapes and unusual colours also saw them used as a shooting location in Game of Thrones.

Almost otherworldly in look, the beaches were formed over the course of millennia by black lava flows being broken down by its rough stretch of coastline’s wind, rain and waves. While Reynisfjara sees a lot of visitors, Vikurfjara is much quieter, despite lying opposite it. As well as enjoying the spellbinding scenery, you can also see puffins and guillemots nesting in their cliffs. Don’t swim here though as its underwater currents are very dangerous and strong.

11. Dettifoss

One of the largest and most powerful waterfalls in all Europe, Dettifoss can be found right in the northeast of Iceland. Also part of Vatnajokull National Park, it is a popular stop along the Diamond Circle tourist route. Often visited alongside Husavik and the Myvatn Nature Baths, its cacophonous roar can be heard well before you arrive.

Already stretching 100 meters wide, its churning, grey-white waters then plummet over 40 meters into an enormous canyon down below. From viewpoints on either side, you can snap some fantastic photos of the vast falls and swirling clouds of spray that hang in the air. After marveling at its majesty, it’s worth seeing the much quieter Hafragilsfoss and Selfoss, just up and down the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river from Detifoss.

10. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

When it comes to viewing Iceland in its natural glory, no region matches the unspoiled wilderness of the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in Westfjords. While it’s true that the its rough terrain of craggy mountains and plunging sea cliffs presents challenges, the Hornstrandir the ideal spot for nature-loving adventurers.

With no shops or services within the reserve, however, hikers need to come equipped for any emergency. High on the bucket-list destinations for hiking enthusiasts is the Hornbjarg, a sky-high sea cliff located on the northernmost tip of the reserve. During the summer season, guided tours are available that let you enjoy this top-of-the-world experience in relative safety and ease.

A tiny fishing village nestled within a sheltered cove in northern Iceland, Husavik is quickly earning a reputation as one of the best spots in Europe for whale watching. The most common species spotted from the tour boats include minke, humpback and blue whales as well as white-beaked dolphin and harbor porpoise.

With several life-size skeletons on display, the Husavik Whale Museum offers a wealth of information about whales and also chronicles the history of whaling in Iceland. The pretty wooden church of Husavikurkirkja built in 1907 is worth a quick visit as well.

8. Landmannalaugar

Located within the Fjallaback Nature Reserve in Iceland’s interior highlands, Landmannalaugar is best known for its scenic hiking trails. Situated at the edge of a lava field, the flat and easily traversed region is famous for its natural hot springs as well.

Popular treks include short hikes through the lava field and climbs up nearby Mt. Blahnjukur, one of the rhyolite mountains that ridges Landmannalaugar’s graveled plains. Tour companies make regular day trips to the region during the high season, and rudimentary accommodations are available for overnight stays at the site as well.

7. Thingvellir National Park

As the place where Iceland’s parliament was established in the 10th century, Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park has great historic importance to the island nation. Its location in a rift valley on the boundary of two major tectonic plates makes it a park with geological significance too.

Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the valley’s cliffs, fissures, lakes and evidence of volcanic activity demonstrate the force of the shifting earth in dramatic fashion. A popular day-trip destination from Reykjavik, Iceland’s first national park features marked trails that let you take in the best sights in two or three hours.

Formed thousands of years ago by a river of hot lava, Myvatn is the best place to visit in Iceland for bird watching. More than 100 species frequent this lake to feast on the midges that give Myvatn its name. Shaped by volcanic eruptions spouting up through the water, the so-called pseudo-craters that dominate the landscape attract visitors as well.

The best place to view the craters is on the lake’s south shore near the rural community of Skutustadir. A forest of pillars, caves and rock formations created as the water drained away are on display at Dimmuborgir, the lava fields east of Myvatn.

5. Reykjavik

Spread out over the Seltjarnarnes peninsula in southwest Iceland, Reykjavik covers a surprisingly large area for a capital with a population of around 120,000. Most visits begin at the visitor’s center located near picturesque Lake Tjornin on the city’s west side. Filled with exhibits recounting Iceland’s Viking heritage, the National and Saga museums are must-see attractions.

For a panoramic view of the capital, ride the lift to the observation deck of the modernistic Hallgrimskirkja church east of the lake. With its appealing array of shops, bars and restaurants, the central thoroughfare of Laugavegur is worth exploring too.

4. Jokulsarlon

Few travel experiences in Iceland are more memorable than the sight and sound of an iceberg breaking off a glacier and crashing into the sea. The best place to witness this display of nature’s power is at the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

Located in southeast Iceland, this iceberg-dotted lake was formed by the melting ice of the Breidamerkurjokull glacier, which is a major attraction in its own right. While you can view the lake with its slow-moving floating icebergs from the island’s Ring Road, nothing compares to seeing them up close from the deck of a tour boat.

3. Golden Circle Route

One of the best ways to see as many of Iceland’s incredible landscapes as possible is to take a trip along its famous Golden Circle Route. Covering about 300 kilometres in total, it passes not just epic canyons and waterfalls but interesting hot springs and historic sites too. While some people drive themselves, others take action-packed day tours of all its highlights.

Dotting the southern uplands directly east of Reykjavik are many of the Nordic nation’s most arresting natural attractions, all easily reached by car. These include the spurting Geysir and Strokkur geysers in the Haukadalur geothermal area and the ginormous Gullfoss waterfall. Thingvellir National Park’s rugged rift valley where Iceland’s parliament held its first session in 930 AD is another must-see.

Other than learning all about its fascinating past in its visitor centre, you can hike along its scenic trails or scuba dive at Silfra Lake. Other popular stops along the Golden Circle are the colourful Kerid Crater and bright white Skalholt Cathedral, both of which sparkle delightfully in the sun.

2. Blue Lagoon

Located on the Reykjanes peninsula less than an hour’s drive from Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most popular tourist destination. This manmade lake is fed by superheated seawater vented from a nearby lava flow.

The geothermal waters contain minerals like silica believed to have health benefits, but it’s the chance to relax in a steaming lagoon surrounded by black lava rocks that most attracts visitors. In addition to a restaurant that overlooks the lagoon, a 35-room resort features an array of pampering amenities, including spa treatments, saunas, steam baths and a fully equipped fitness room.

1. Vatnajokull National Park

Covering a massive swathe of southeast Iceland are all the diverse landscapes and dramatic scenery of Vatnajokull National Park. Actually one of the largest in Europe, it is named after its immense ice cap that has so many magical glaciers, mountains and ice caves to explore. Aside from hiking, kayaking or camping amidst its wild, snowy reaches, you can snowmobile about or watch the flickering Northern Lights overhead.

Literally meaning ‘Glacier of Lakes’, the picturesque park was established back in 2008 with it now protecting around 15 percent of the country. Due to all its rivers, volcanoes and geothermal activity, its terrain is very varied. It encompasses not just both the Dettifoss and Svartifoss waterfalls but all Jokulsarlon Lagoon’s ever-changing ice formations too.

Besides taking photos of its beautiful white and blue icebergs, you can climb the Vatnakojull glacier or scale all Lakagigar’s volcanic peaks. With its captivating Crystal Caves and craggy coastline still to see, the park is not to be missed when exploring the Land of Ice and Fire.

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South Coast of Iceland: 31 Attractions and Awesome Things to Do

I celand is one of the most magical, surreal countries that I have ever had the privilege of visiting. The combination of black igneous rocks, jagged mountains, volcanic eruptions, basalt columns, black sand beaches to explore, hot springs to soak in , open, flat expanses covered in moss… the country is an incredible destination and nature lover’s dream.

South Iceland is a top destination for many travelers in Iceland. Reykjavik, the capital city, is located in southern Iceland, and there are a huge number of waterfalls, hot pots, massive glaciers to hike , and natural attractions along the south coast of Iceland. You could spend days, weeks even, in just this portion of the country. 

Traveling around southern Iceland is very easy – the roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate, and distances are manageable.

Top Sights and Attractions: South Coast Iceland

If you are wondering what to see in Iceland, here’s your guide to some of the top sights and attractions that you absolutely should not miss when you visit this incredible country. 

Things to Do in Reykjavik

Before you get out into the countryside of Iceland, you must explore Reykjavik. Reykjavik can be explored in less than a day, but there are some attractions here that you really should not miss!

Hallgrímskirkja

The biggest church in Reykjavik is the Hallgrimskirkja church, a relatively new church (built in 1986) that has quickly become an icon of Iceland.

This church is designed to mimic the natural landscapes of Iceland, with a distinctive curved shape and tall, skinny “columns” that are very reminiscent of the basalt columns found in Svartifoss or Reynisfjara (more on both of those places, below). You can also go up in the tower to enjoy the views over Reykjavik. 

Skólavörðustígur Street

Skólavörðustígur Street starts at the Hallgrimskirkja church, and continues down through the city. After a few blocks, it turns into a rainbow road, where the street has long, colorful horizontal stripes in rainbow order.

The street was painted to show friendliness towards the LGBTQ community, but it’s also very appropriate for Iceland – as they naturally get tons of rainbows due to their numerous waterfalls and low-angle sun.

Harpa Concert Hall

Harpa Concert Hall is a beautiful concert hall right on the coast of Reykjavik that hosts world class performances, as well as different conferences and events.

Like the Hallgrimskirkja church, the concert hall’s architecture is designed to imitate the unique beauty of Iceland. The outside is made of small hexagonal pieces of glass layered together, designed to resemble Iceland’s basalt landscape. 

Whale Watching

Iceland is one of the best places to go whale watching in the world, and there are a number of good whale watching companies that run out of Reykjavik.

The best time to go whale watching is in summer, when whales migrate to the waters around Iceland. You can often see blue whales, sperm whales, minke whales, and humpback whales around Reykjavik, though you may also see orcas. 

Things to Do in the Golden Circle Area of South Iceland

The “Golden Circle” in Iceland is 3 different attractions that you can visit in one easy loop as a day trip from Reykjavik. As such, these locations – Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss – are some of the most visited spots in the country, but are still incredible places to see nature. 

Included in this section are a couple of other stops that easily fit when visiting the Golden Circle. 

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir is an incredible spot in Iceland, both politically and geologically. Politically, it was the site of the Iceland parliament, which met here between 930 and 1798.

Geologically, Thingvellir is the location of the Almannagja Gorge, which is the divide between the North American tectonic plate and the Eurasian tectonic plate. This is the only spot in the world where the rift between tectonic plates is above ground (and not deep in the ocean). 

Other options of things to do in Thingvellir include multiple hiking trails, visiting the Oxararfoss waterfall, or fishing in Lake Þingvallavatn

Kerid Crater

The Kerid Crater is an old volcanic crater with a small lake at the bottom. The Kerid Crater is notable both for its shape and for its colors – the deep red soil contrasts with the green-blue water and the surrounding green moss and vegetation. You can walk around the rim or even descend down to the water’s edge.  

Gullfoss is a powerful and commonly visited waterfall in Iceland , with an upper and lower viewing deck located a quick, 5 minute walk from the parking lot. The upper deck is higher above the falls, whereas the lower deck is right at the top of the falls. If you want to get close to the falls, the lower deck is what gets you there.

 The river cascades over a few, small ledges before plunging 100 feet over a tall cliff, into a narrow gorge below. It’s actually rather difficult to see the bottom of the falls at Gullfoss, as the ravine is pretty tight and the mist is quite strong. 

Geysir is a collection of small bubbling hot springs and large, explosive geysers. When you arrive, you’ll walk through a pathway lined with steaming, bubbling mud pots.

Nestled within these pots is Strokkur, a geyser that regularly and dramatically erupts, shooting a pillar of water anywhere from 50-100 feet (15-30 meters) in the air. These eruptions occur every 5-7 minutes, so you will definitely be able to see at least one during your visit. 

Other Places to Visit in South Iceland

Blue lagoon.

One of Iceland’s most popular attractions, the Blue Lagoon is nevertheless a can’t-miss spot when visiting South Iceland. The Blue Lagoon is a large hot spring spa, with steam rising off the milky blue waters, and lava rocks lining the curving edges of the pools. While there, you can get a drink from the poolside bar and apply a mud mask from the silica mud formed naturally around the pools. 

The lagoon does get busy, so it’s recommended to make your reservations to come first thing in the morning, or right before closing. Head to the very back of the pools for the most secluded spots. 

Fagradsafjall Volcano

The Fagradsafjall volcano is located about 30 minutes from Reykjavik, and is one of the most recent volcanos to actively erupt in Iceland. It erupted during 2021, and was a top tourist attraction during the months of eruption.

Today, the volcano is largely dormant (although eruptions do start and stop randomly every year or so), but the lava fields that Fagradsafjall created are very fresh and very expansive. You can still hike out to the lava fields and marvel at the vastness of the lava, and examine the intricacies of the newest rocks on earth. 

The Hruni hot springs (or Hrunalaug) is a super charming hot pot in the middle of rolling hills in the countryside. There are 3 pools at Hrunalaug, the largest is lined with a stone wall, the middle is a small pond, and the smallest is a tiny little plunge pool.

Make sure you have some cash on you – there’s a box at the parking lot that asks for a 1000 krona (or $10) donation for the upkeep of the hot pot. 

Reykjadalur Thermal River

The Reykjadalur Thermal River is one of the best and most unique things to do in south Iceland – instead of soaking in a hot spring that is a pool of warm water, you actually get to sit in a hot river.

To get there, you’ll have to hike about 1 hour into a hilly area. There are sections that are steep, but the views are fantastic. The very final section of the hike starts following along the river, but you’ll know you’ve reached the bathing portion when you start walking on a boardwalk along the river. 

The stream is pretty shallow and slow-moving, so it’s totally safe for all ages. There’s a little bit of moss on the rocks in the river, but it actually felt really nice!

Bruarfoss is a gorgeous waterfall with milky, ice blue water. This waterfall is fairly unique, in that there isn’t one ridge that the falls go over; rather, there are dozens of streams of water falling several feet over a curved ridge.

There are two ways to see Bruarfoss – the first is to park in the parking lot and walk 5 minutes to the falls, and second is to park about 2 miles away and hike along the river to the falls. 

Gljúfrabúi 

Gljúfrabúi is one of the most unique waterfalls in Iceland, and it is actually located inside of a cave. The cave isn’t deep at all, but the only entrance is through the stream coming off the waterfall, so you’ll have to wade through the ankle deep water for about 35 feet (10 meters) to reach dry land inside the cave. 

Once you’re inside, you can fully appreciate the water streaming 125 feet  (38 m) over a ridge in the roof of the cave, which is partially open to the sky. Fun fact: Gljufrabui means “one who lives in the canyon”. The whole effect is surreal and enchanting. 

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is located just a stone’s throw away from Gljufrabrui, and is a popular waterfall in Iceland, as visitors can walk a path that goes behind the falls, creating a very cool perspective. Seljalandsfoss is 200 feet (60 m) tall, and is just a quick walk from the parking lot. 

Skógafoss is possibly the most famous waterfall in all of Iceland, and is a very easy one to visit in south Iceland. Water rushes over a 200 foot (60 m) cliff, plunging down in one big drop next to moss-lined rock walls.

Interestingly, although the falls themselves are very powerful, the stream at the base of the falls is fairly calm and lowkey.  Be prepared for a very strong mist and stiff wind created by this thunderous and spectacular waterfall. 

Seljavallalaug

Seljavallalaug is one of the oldest hot springs in Iceland, and is a scenic location to view. Seljavallalaug is actually a swimming pool that is built into the ground, with one edge of the pool backing up to the side of a hill, and is more of a heated pool than *hot* spring.

The entire pool is set in the middle of a very hilly area, and the peaks of the hills around the pool are really beautiful. The pool has an interesting history – it was built to teach Icelander children to swim during a time when most people couldn’t swim. 

Sólheimasandur Airplane

The Sólheimasandur plane is an abandoned, crashed plane on a solitary black sand beach in south Iceland. It’s about a 4 mile (7 km) round trip, easy walk out to the plane, where you can admire and explore the crash site against the stark background. 

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Thanks to all the volcanic activity in Iceland, there are quite a few beaches in Iceland that are black sand beaches. The most famous of all these black sand beaches is Reynisfjara Beach, which in addition to the coarse, dark sand, also has tall, black, basalt columns lining one edge of the beach.

These basalt columns are also a remnant of volcanic activity, and create a totally otherworldly scene on the beach. Stay far away from the water’s edge at Reynisfjara, as sneaker waves will without warning break high and strong on the beach. 

Svartifoss is a waterfall in Vatnajokull National Park, near the Skaftafell Terminal. To see this waterfall, you’ll need to hike about 1 mile (1.5 km) to arrive at the falls, which are some of the most impressive in Iceland. The waterfall flows over a curved ridge, with long “stacks” of basalt columns visible on the cliff face. 

Vatnajokull/Skaftafell Glacier

The Vatnajokull Glacier is the largest glacier in Iceland, covers 11% of the country, and includes over 30 smaller named arms of the glacier. A couple of these arms are the Skaftafell and the Falljokul glaciers, which are notable because you can actually go hiking on them. 

You do have to go with a tour guide to hike a glacier in Iceland, due to the inherent danger in climbing a massive hunk of ice with cracks, fissures, caves, and sink holes.

Still, doing a glacier hike is one of the top experiences you can have in south Iceland, as you’ll get to admire the blue tint of the ice, see the deep craggs of the ice face, climb through ice canyons, drink from a glacier stream, and see the massive ice fall, a tall cliff face that looms above you. 

Jokulsarlon

On the very south side of Vatnajokull National Park is Jokulsarlon, commonly referred to as “Glacier Lagoon.” Glacier Lagoon has one of the most incredible landscapes in south Iceland, as ice chunks break off of the glacier and float in the lagoon.

These icebergs of varying sizes and shapes float through the lagoon, and then through a small channel out to sea. You can admire the ice from shore, or even go on a boat tour or kayak tour through the lagoon. This is definitely a spot not to be missed in south Iceland. 

Diamond Beach

Once the icebergs leave Jokulsarlon and are out at sea, the waves toss and turn them, “polishing” them up. Some of these icebergs are then actually pushed back onto the black sand beaches that line the shores nearby. These beaches are known as “Diamond Beach,” as the blocks of ice shine and sparkle brilliantly, a sharp contrast to the black sand on which they sit. 

Fjallsarlon

About 15 minutes away from Jokulsarlon is Fjallsarlon, which is another, smaller glacier lagoon. This lagoon is both smaller in area and the ice that floats in the water is much, much smaller, sometimes only shards. However, Fjallsarlon has the advantage in that you can actually have a great view of the glacier in Fjallsarlon (it’s very far away in Jokulsarlon), and while the ice is smaller, there is so much more ice in Fjallsarlon. 

Hoffell Hot Pots

The Hoffell Hot Pots are a series of 5 small, man-made tubs inset into the ground, and surrounded by stones and vegetation, with hills and mountains in the background.  

Vestrahorn on the Stokksnes Peninsula

The Stokksnes Peninsula is a small little jut-out of land that holds the Vestrahorn mountain, a tall, dramatic, singular mountain that ends abruptly right at the water’s edge.

The viewpoint at Stokksnes is an incredible vantage point. The bay is extremely shallow and surrounded by a fine black beach, and during high tide it completely fills up with calm water creating a spectacular reelected view of the Vestrahorn. It feels like something out of a fantasy.

Múlagljúfur Canyon

Múlagljúfur Canyon is a gorgeous, deep, moss-lined canyon in south Iceland. A waterfall plunges from a high cliff at the back of the canyon, and the stream winds its way through the bottom of the ravine. Hiking through Múlagljúfur canyon is a delight, as you can walk a trail right at the edge of the top of the cliffs, and admire the undulating, green canyon walls in front of you. 

Foods to Try and Best Places to Eat

Icelandic hot dogs.

Hot Dogs in Iceland are made with lamb, and make for a very popular meal. You can get good hot dogs in just about any gas station, but the best place is the Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur stand in Reykjavik. 

Sheep (and lambs) are the most common domesticated animal you’ll see in Iceland, and the meat makes it into a lot of dishes, including a delightful lamb stew. 

For anyone wanting to be adventurous, hakarl, aka fermented shark, is something you should try! Small chunks of the fermented shark are served on toothpicks, and traditionally washed down with Brennivin, a strong liquor similar to vodka.

Hakarl is truly disgusting – it smells like harsh chemicals, and has a very fishy and chewy taste. But it’s also definitely a cultural experience, is really only a small bite, and you’ll have bragging rights after!

Langoustines

Being on the coast, seafood is a popular and delicious food to eat in Iceland. Langoustines are particularly good on the south coast of Iceland, and the best way to eat them is on a langoustine pizza at Ishusid Pizzeria in the town of Hofn. 

Best Hotels in South Iceland

Many people who visit south Iceland choose to camp in campervans or RVs, and regular towns with regular hotels are few and far between. However, there are still some really beautiful hotels to stay in in South Iceland. These are a few top picks: 

Reykjavik: The Fosshótel Rauðará Hotel

The hotel is centrally located in downtown Reykjavik, and offers free parking in the city. Read Fosshotel Rauðará reviews at TripAdvisor and find the best prices at Hotels.com or Booking.com .

Vik: Hotel Vík í Mýrdal

Hotel Vík í Mýrdal is a nice, modern, centrally located place to stay in Vik, close to Reynisfjara Beach, the Sólheimasandur plane, Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, and Seljavallalaug.

The beach views are absolutely amazing! You can see the sea and the Reynisdrangar Pillars from here. The cliffs are really impressive, and there are lots of birds around, including puffins on Mt. Reynisfjall, just a short distance away.

They offer a free breakfast buffet and have a happy hour, restaurant, and bar.

Read Hotel Vík í Mýrdal reviews at TripAdvisor and find the best prices at Hotels.com or Booking.com .

Hveragardi: The Greenhouse Hotel

This is a beautiful property with tons of windows and plants, not far from the Thermal River. Hiking, swimming, fishing, golfing, biking, and riding are all nearby. This is a great choice in winter if you want to see amazing views of the moon, stars and Northern Lights.

Read Greenhouse Hotel reviews at TripAdvisor and find the best prices at Hotels.com or Booking.com .

7 Fun Facts about Iceland

• The Iceland Parliament that was formed and held at Thingvellir was the world’s oldest parliament
• Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world – you can feel secure and comfortable traveling around the country. 
• Iceland has the most waterfalls per square foot in the world. Seriously, everywhere you look in Iceland, you will see a waterfall. 
• The Vatnajokull Glacier in south Iceland, in addition to being the largest glacier in the country, is also the largest glacier in all of Europe. 
• Iceland’s water is naturally very fresh and clean, as much of it comes directly from glacial runoff. 
• There are very few trees and no large forests in Iceland, especially in south Iceland. 
• Reindeer are a common sighting in Iceland, especially as you head east. 

Best Time to Visit South Iceland

Iceland can be a great place to visit throughout the year, however, the seasons are very different. During the winter , there is very little light, with just a few hours of light during the middle of the day, and high wind and snow can happen anytime. However, tourism is very low during this time and the chance of seeing the northern lights is high.

Summer is the complete opposite – there is absolutely no darkness, the sky stays light all day long. Summer is still chilly in Iceland, and you can expect to still need winter gear when visiting during summer, as highs are often in the 40’s-60’s. There’s no chance of seeing northern lights, but you can admire the midnight sun. 

Fall and spring look like more “typical” days, with a defined daytime and nighttime, and chances of seeing northern lights. Winds can be high and temperatures very cold, but it’s a great time to visit the country. 

The Wrap Up

Despite having visited many of the great cities of Europe, majestic deserts, stunning mountains, and tropical paradises, Iceland is still the most incredible trip I have done.

You will find a huge variety of dramatic landscapes and features to experience and make lasting memories. So take these tips and go plan your south Iceland adventure!

Recommended Travel Resources

• Travel Insurance: World Nomads .
• Transport: CheapOAir and Skyscanner (Best Sites to Research Flight Prices) 
• Best Car Rental Deals: Rentalcars.com
• Best Sites to Find Hotel Deals: Hotels.com and Booking.com
• My Favorite Hotel Review Website: TripAdvisor
• Best Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide

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The post South Coast of Iceland: 31 Attractions and Awesome Things to Do appeared first on 52 Perfect Days .

30 of the Best Places To Visit In Iceland

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Take a journey through these unique places to visit in Iceland with the Adventographer . Iceland has exploded in popularity as a tourist destination over the last few years. Nowadays the tourists outnumber residents nearly 3:1 in the peak summer months. But even with this huge influx of tourists and the endless information available about the country online most visitors miss out on some of the most unique places in Iceland .

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In Iceland

In this post, rather than bore you with places everyone else is talking about, we’ll explore some of the best ‘off-the-beaten-path’ and unique places to visit in Iceland. But don’t worry, we’ll check out the best places to visit that are a little more well-trodden as well. Read more at 15 Interesting Facts About Iceland

Hallgrimskirkja – Reykjavik

Located in the capital city of Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja church is Iceland’s tallest building. It is one of Reykjavik’s best-known landmarks, the Hallgrimskirkja church looms over the City Skyline. It’s visible from almost everywhere in town yet many tourists never bother to visit this brutalist church on the hill. But bypassing this structure is a mistake.

Built over a period of 41 years it resembles the impressive landscapes around Iceland. Not only does the bell tower provide an impressive sight over the expanse of Reykjavik but the interior is impressive on its own housing a 15m tall concert organ sporting 5275 pipes!

The Westfjords

One of the best things to do in Iceland is in one of the least visited regions. The West Fjords are often bypassed due to their remoteness and distance from other popular must-see Iceland attractions. Perhaps this helps to keep the West Fjords one of the best places to visit.

Due to the relative lack of tourists passing through the area, its attractions remain undiscovered by the masses. Here in the West Fjords, you’ll find sparse fishing villages tucked into sheltered coves, grand sweeping views, and landscapes that time (and tourists) have all but forgotten. And that’s about as good a reason as any to visit!

Rauðasandur Beach

While the black-sand-beach Reynisfjara is famous in the south, its pink-sand cousin Rauðasandur is unknown. This beautiful beach in the Westfjords is pink due to pulverized scallop shells. Stretching 10 km from the Látrabjarg bird cliff, it is the largest sea bird cliff in all of Europe. And it is a great place to spy puffins.

Dynjandi Waterfall

Every Tourist to Iceland knows Gullfoss waterfall but who among them knows the much more impressive Dynjandi? Dynjandi, hidden away in the West Fjords, is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Iceland . (without the crowds) Translated literally its name means ‘thunderous’ and it doesn’t disappoint!

This gargantuan waterfall is felt before it’s seen, and an impressive sight it is! Unlike other waterfalls around Iceland that commonly drop vertically, Dynjandi is a cascading waterfall. This lends to its 60m wide and 100+m tall beauty.

A short 15minute hike from the parking lot following the river and some smaller cascades will get you face to face with the fury of Dynjandi. Don’t forget your Camera! Dynjandi is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Iceland and you’ll want your photo taken in front of it for scale! Read more: Mighty Not to Miss Iceland Waterfalls

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve 

While visiting the Westfjiords, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. It encompasses 580 square km. (220 square miles). Check out: Iceland – Experience the Land of Fire and Ice

Gullfoss Waterfall

Okay, I know I said everyone knows Gullfoss, but no Iceland travel guide would be complete without mentioning the Mighty Gullfoss. Gullfoss is Iceland’s Niagara Falls and its thundering waters will terrify and delight. This waterfall plunges 32 meters (104 feet) into the Hvitá River. It is located in the Southwest of Iceland and is a popular stop on the Ring Road. It is a wonder of Iceland and truly one of the best things to do.

Iceland Phallological Museum

A weird and wonderful Icelandic museum in the Captial City is dedicated to all things phallic. You heard right… The Iceland Phallological Museum is the world’s foremost collection of phallic specimens; in fact, they have specimens belonging to all the various types of mammal found in the country!

It’s a weird, after lunch kind of stop while roaming around Reykjavik. Understandably it’s not for everyone, but if nothing else it makes for a good story to tell when you return home, and unique? Most definitely!

Strandagaldur – The Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft

The majority of Icelandic people believe in all kinds of fanciful ideas. From elves to witchcraft you’ll find a local who will swear it’s real. I can’t say I’m a big believer, but when in Rome right?

Located in the small, sleepy village of Hólmavík in Iceland’s West Fjords the macabre Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft is sure to spark your imagination or make your skin crawl.

I can’t help but think Silence of the Lambs when viewing the weirdest item in the museum, a set of trousers made from human skin. This is definitely one of the most unique places in Iceland!

• Check out the Movie Eurovision – Rachel McAdams’s character definitely believes in the magic of elves.

Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir National Park)

Located just 47 Minutes from Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park is easily accessible from the capital city. If you are traveling in clockwise direction on the Golden Circle Tours, it is one of the first stops! Thingvellir National park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historic significance where the Vikings claimed independence from Denmark. It houses the largest lake in Iceland Lake Þingvallavatn.

Located on the Rift Valley of Two Continents, many of the best things to do in the country are found right here.

Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir NP

Most visitors to Iceland don’t realize that the country is literally being torn in two continents. Sitting atop the mid-Atlantic ridge and spanning two different tectonic plates Iceland is growing at the rate of about 25mm per year. Nowhere is this more apparent than at the Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park.

Silfra fissure is the rift formed by these mighty tectonic forces at work. Here hundred-year-old glacial meltwater percolates through the porous lava rock feeding Thingvellir lake and lending to one of its world-renown qualities, visibility.

Snorkelers and divers from across the world flock to swim through the fissure, effectively floating in no-mans-land between the continents! With 100m+ visibility, you truly feel as if you’re flying, it’s only the 2°C water that snaps you back to reality. If you’re hunting for unique places to visit in Iceland Silfra is definitely one! Read all about Diving in Silfra – Iceland Underwater

Bridge Between The Continents

Continuing to play on Iceland’s stretching waistline, you can locate another part of the evergrowing rift south-west of Reykjavik on the Reykjanes peninsula. There’s no diving or snorkeling here, rather a bridge crossing the much more visible gap.

Known as the bridge between the continents it was built as a symbol of the connection & cooperation enjoyed between Europe and North America.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (Iceberg Lagoon)

Iceland is covered in glaciers, but most tourists pass them by with only a photo or a faint memory to their credit. On Iceland’s south coast lays a real treasure. A treasure where you can get up close and personal with not only Iceland’s glaciers but also the icebergs that they produce.

Jokulsarlon is an expansive glacier lagoon on the coast just a few hundred meters inland from the sea. Here while the seals play and tourists zip around on zodiac boat tours the icebergs nonchalantly bob along before being sucked out to see and subsequently washed up on the beaches flanking the lagoon.

Perhaps not as off the beaten track as the rest of these destinations, Jokulsarlon makes the list because it’s simply unique. It is truly one of the natural wonders of Iceland.

Diamond Beach

Speaking of Natural Wonders, the famous black sand beach nearby is not to be missed. While exploring Jokulsarlon be sure to cross the road and see the stunning black sand beach. 

It’s famous for the icebergs that wash up on shore as they make their way out of Jokulsarlon down the river to the Atlantic Ocean. One of the best things to do is to go for a walk along the beach at sunrise. That is when the icebergs really seem to be cluttering the shore. Both of these popular stops are located on the Iceland circle route.

Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Hiding away just off Iceland’s main ring road is Fjadrargljufur canyon. It waited here patiently in relative obscurity until thrust into the spotlight recently by Justin Beber and his hit Music video for “ I’ll Show You ”.

Fjadrargljufur is a stunningly craggy canyon jutting out from the rolling green hills nearby. This picturesque canyon is a favorite among photographers and Instagrammers. It’s easy to see why!

While it doesn’t have the scale of the Grand Canyon or the depth of Copper Canyon in Mexico its narrow width and sheer cliff walls make it stunning none the less.

Seljavallalaug Hot Spring / Hot Pool

Iceland’s oldest swimming pool perhaps isn’t something that would typically draw tourists. But when you see a photo of Seljavallalaug tucked into the hillside of a verdant, mountain-ringed valley and realize that you can still swim in this geothermally fed pool you too will want to drop your day’s plans and visit!

A short walk from the makeshift parking area next to a farm follows the river into an ever-narrowing valley before crossing the river in a few spots and delivering you to Seljavallalaug. The water is warm but not hot, and the pool makes for a great mid-day break along the south coast!

Grjótagjá Hot Spring Cave

Grjótagjá is one of the most unique hot springs in Iceland and might seem familiar if you’re a fan of the hit television series Game of Thrones. This lava cave hot spring appears in a season three episode as the setting for a much-anticipated love scene between the main characters. (John Snow and Ygritte)

While bathing here is not allowed (the water is too hot and slightly acidic) venturing into and discovering the cave comes with a high recommendation from me!

Myvatn Nature Baths

If you really do want to dip in a hot spring the Myvatn Nature Baths are just up the road and a great way to round out a day of exploring in Iceland!

Snæfellsjökull National Park

Snæfellsjökull National Park is another unique location in Iceland that gets fewer visitors than it deserves. Formed in 2001 to protect the distinct landscapes and important historical relics it also provides the infrastructure that allows tourists to access this wild peninsula.

Here you can descend into and explore an 8000-year-old lava tube at Vatnshellir Cave, climb into an extinct volcano at the Saxholl Crater and even search for puffins along the rugged black basalt cliffs of Londrangar.

The Snaefellsness peninsula and Snæfellsjökull National Park are places well worth adding to your Icelandic Itinerary!

Glymur Waterfall

Until recently Glymur was the tallest waterfall in Iceland. Simply because of this fact you’d expect it to be a common stop for visitors to the country. However, Its somewhat remote and involves a bit of a hike, so, even the tourists that do come through the area are likely to skip it. Accessible only in the summer months you’ll want to plan for a 3 hour round trip.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Beach is definitely the most famous place in Iceland. It has shown up in every Medieval and fantastic movie out there. Located beside the town of Vik, this striking coast features huge black basalt stacks. It is about 120 km from Reykjavik making it a popular day trip and it is located on the Ring Road. You’ll see many sea birds along here and it’s one of the best places to spot puffins.

Snaefellsjokul National Park

Located on the West Coast of Iceland, Snaefellsjokul national park is a must-visit on a tour of Iceland. Located on the tip of the Snaefellsjokul Peninsula it has a beautiful basalt landscape where you can explore lava tubes, the Buðahraun lava field, the Snæfellsjökull Glacier and volcano.

Vatnajokull National Park 

Vatnajokull  National Park is the land of Fire and Ice due to its volcanic activity mixed with glacier movement. It is Europe’s largest national park covering 12% of the country. It sees fewer tourists than other tourist destinations and you can take 4X4 trips, do some hiking and take guided tours onto the Vatnajökull ice cap and ice caves.  

It also houses the Dettifoss Waterfall, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. It is definitely worth the trip to Northern Iceland. It also houses the largest glacier in Europe. Vatnajökull Glacier is actually an ice cap that encompasses 8100 square km.

Asbyrgi Canyon

Asbyrgi Canyon is located in North Iceland and just 30 km from Dettifoss Waterfall. The 100 meter high cliffs form a horseshoe canyon. It reminds me of the Cliffs of Moher of Ireland (without the water of course). You can camp in Asbyrgi Canyon and it is a good place for hiking.

Lake Myvatn

When driving Iceland, many people take drive the ring road or do the Golden Circle Tour, but there is an alternative called, the Diamond Circle. Lake Myvatn is located on this circle. The unique landscape of Lake Myvatn is what makes it so interesting to visit. There are many intersting sites around Iceland’s fourth-largest lake including Dimmuborgir lava formations, the picturesque Hverfjall Volcano Crater, the geothermal area of Leirhnjukur, and the Lofthellir Ice Cave located in the Búrfell lava field.

Like much of Iceland you can take a dip in the hot springs and visit geothermal waters. The Myvatn Mineral Baths area fantastic alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

Iceland is the land of Waterfalls and our favourite was Godafoss. Located on the Ring Road or in North Iceland, Godafoss is known as the Waterfall of the Gods. It is located in Myvatn and Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland.

See the Northern Lights

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Many people plan their entire trip around seeing the Aurora Borealis.What is great about the hotels in Iceland is that they will keep a lookout for the Northern Lights and wake you up when they are active. Just let the front desk know that you are interested and they’ll make sure you don’t miss them.

Geysir Geothermal Area 

No trip to Iceland would be complete without witnessing the Geyser Hot Spring Area. The Strokker Geyser shoots 30 meters into the air. While it is a very popular stop on the Golden Circle, it is on the list because it is so unique!

Fjallabak Nature Reserve 

You May have heard of Rainbow Mountain in Peru, well Iceland has its own colorful mountains. This valley is filled with rainbow colored mountains and geothermal pools. For hiking in Iceland, this is the one to do, the Laugavegur Trail was rated as one of the top hikes in the world.

Blue Lagoon

When visiting Iceland there are plenty of “must-see” sights, there’s no arguing that. The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous hot springs. And even though it is overcrowded, no trip to Iceland would be complete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon. What makes it easy is that it is close to the airport so you can pop in before your flight out. (Like we did). The Geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon are what drew tourists to Iceland and it is worth visiting at least once in your lifetime.

Read our full breakdown of the Blue Lagoon here: How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland

But getting off the tourist trail and exploring the less known and more unique places in Iceland is sure to leave you speechless.

Some of the top things to do in Iceland (that are on the popular tourist trail are:

• Lava Fields – the largest lava flow in the world located in the south of Iceland.
• Vik Rock Formations – Sea stacks and caves
• Gullfoss Waterfall – Iceland’s most popular waterfall
• Golden Circle Route – This is the popular ring road that circles around the country
• Icelandic Horses – These horses are unique to Iceland and nothing compares to going for a ride and trying to Tolt on an Icelandic horse.
• Whale Watching and Bird Watching.

Iceland Tours

• Independent travel in Iceland is possible when renting a car but you may want to book some tours in advance if you are not driving.
• We use GetYourGuide as a tour company as it is easy to book in advance, cancel with 24 hours notice and we have enjoyed the tours we’ve taken with them.
• Golden Circle Tour – Pick up from Reykjavik and explore the highlights of Southern Iceland including the Geyser, discover where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet in Þingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall Click here for details
• Whale Watching – Húsavík as the capital of whale watching in Iceland and this is the original. If you are going to go whale watching this is a good option.

For more information on Iceland check out our Iceland Travel Guide

Enjoy perusing all these attractions of Iceland? Why not save this to Pinterest for future reference?

These are simply 13 of the hundreds of unique attractions in Iceland. We’ve barely scratched the surface of what the country has to offer.

If you get the chance to visit the land of fire and Ice I’d urge you to drop everything and take it! Iceland has quickly become one of my favorite destinations and somewhere I look forward to returning to again and again!

About Patrick

Patrick is an internationally published Canadian travel photographer and blogger from Adventographer.com who explores the world fuelled by culture, sunsets, street food, and good coffee.

He writes from a wealth of travel experiences both good and bad and endeavors to create & share unique and inspiring content from around the world as a catalyst for change with the mantra Explore.Create.Educate . Find him on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter or Pinterest

Read More About Iceland Travels

• How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland
• What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Iceland
• Iceland Pictures – Incredible Images of Mind Blowing Beauty
• The Icelandic Horse – All you Need to Know About this Beautiful Breed

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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10 thoughts on “30 of the Best Places To Visit In Iceland”

thank for sharing the beauty of iceland, the picture quality and information force me to write comment. keep sharing this type of information

This article gives a clear picture of Iceland and I hope to visit this place soon. Thanks for sharing.

I am very happy to read this blog beacuse this is one of my dream place.In this article you have mentioned about the hot spring caves, glaciers, lagoons and i like it.Thanks for your blog and it did really helped me to get a overall picture.

I also explored these all fabulous places during my last journey and we acme back with stunning memories,

Nice Article! Thanks for sharing.

Are you currently blogging as a side hustle in the niche topic of “travel?”

Iceland is simply breathtaking! thank you guys for sharing this entire thing with us. I am in love with the Silfra Fissure, Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach. I really hope to visit Iceland soon. You guys are amazing travel bloggers.

I just had to double back and give you a shoutout for staying consistent with your “travel blogging.” You and someone else is quietly inspiring me to consider start heavily promoting travel related affiliate programs. But I’m deciding how to start out with the budget I have now using PPC advertising. Thank you for just being you. 🙂

Great article!

looks like a very beautiful place there my friend. The truth is, I don’t know about visiting there. I do want to travel back to Santa Barbara, California in next three years. Hopefully sooner than that. 🙂

• Things to see

10 Most Famous Landmarks in Iceland: Must-Sees

9 minute read

By Ragnheiður Harpa Haraldsdóttir

28 August 2019

Iceland is a country of great extremes. On one hand, you have sparkling glaciers and the other voluminous volcanoes. In between, you might find a lava field, a glacier, a fertile greenfield, or maybe even a gorge. The variety is without comparison.

• See Iceland’s best-loved landmarks on a guided group tour .

There are endless surprises around every corner. The crème de la crème of Iceland’s natural landmarks were not easy to select because each part of the country offers something so different from the other. Yet somehow each location and each site is special in its own way.

But, after careful consideration, we were able to choose 10. So, without further delay here they are.

10. Sólfarið sculpture

Reykjavík is a colorful and quirky city with unbelievable street art and charming architecture. The city center is relatively small, but packed with amazing restaurants, shops, and galleries. Strolling around the city you will stumble upon many sculptures and art pieces but only very few get as much attention as Sólfarið or the ‘Sun Voyager’. 

The dazzling steel formation is located right at the brim of Sæbraut, in the middle of the waterfront pathway loved by locals. The sculpture resembles a Viking longship and it is a common way to describe it. However, the Icelandic sculptor who designed it, Jón Gunnar Árnason, had a very different idea in mind. 

Sun Voyager was meant to represent a boat of one’s dreams. Something that Jón Gunnar saw as an ode to the sun. It should within itself hold the promise of undiscovered territory and a beautiful dream of hope, progress and freedom.

Sun Voyager was one of Jón Gunnar’s last pieces as he sadly passed of leukemia a year before the sculpture was placed in its current location. Some have even said that he thought of the ship as a vessel transporting a soul from this world to the next. 

But be this as it may, most travelers still refer to the sculpture as the Viking ship down by the waterfront. The one with the Esja mountain in the background and on a clear day, even the volcanic glacier, Snæfellsjökull. It is a fantastic photographic location, especially during sunrise and sunset. 

9. Lake Mývatn

A visit to Lake Mývatn and its surrounding attractions is truly a surreal experience. Mývatn is simply put a geological wonderland sculpted by thousands of years worth of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and other natural phenomenons.

It is one of the largest lakes in Iceland and a nesting ground for many bird species. Some have even gone as far as to say that no other place on Earth is home to as many different species of duck. 

Everywhere you can find volcanic craters and multicolored bubbling sulfuric hot springs. They together create a scene straight out of the movies which Hollywood producers have started to take notice. The steams from the hot springs were used in the hit TV show, Game of Thrones , during which Sam is struggling to get through the foggy storm but in reality it’s just the steam from the springs.

Interesting sights to visit around lake Mývatn are Mývatn Nature Baths, Námaskarð, Hverfjall, Dimmuborgir, the Askja and Krafla volcanic craters, and the Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters. 

8. Hallgrímskirkja church

Hallgrímskirkja is the landmark symbol of Reykjavik. This towering gray pillar stands tall above all else in the otherwise modest architecture of the city. All around it are corrugated iron houses painted in all the colors of the rainbow, with the occasional wooden home sticking out in between.

The view from Hallgrímskirkja tower offers a splendid opportunity to see all the colored houses and the views of the harbor and Esja beyond. And of course, it’s an absolute can’t-miss photo opportunity. 

The church was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, one of Iceland’s most famous and beloved architects. His inspiration is said to have come from Svartifoss waterfall, yet another landmark worth checking out. When compared, it is not hard to see the inspiration. The basalt rocks framing the waterfall are the rising pillars on each side of the church tower.

Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran parish church and reaches 74 meters (242 feet). This makes it the tallest church in Iceland. Inside the grand church, you can see the impressive and world-renowned pipe organ. Built by the famous organ builder Johannes Klais of Bonn, the organ is a staggering 15 meters high (49 ft) and unbelievably heavy, weighing 25 metric tons. It has four manuals, 102 ranks, 72 stops, and 5,275 pipes.

Outside the church, you’ll find the famous Leifur Eiríksson statue. It was a gift from the United States to commemorate the 1,000 year anniversary of Alþingi, the Icelandic parliament. Icelanders see this gift-giving as a formal acceptance on the part of Americans and an acknowledgment that Leifur Eiríksson, an Icelander, was the first European to find America, not Christopher Columbus.

7. Hvítserkur 

Hvítserkur or ‘Dinosaur Rock’ in the north is another awe-inspiring sight. Its location, incredible form, and stature is something you can’t help but admire. It is located in the northwest, not far from the villages of Hvammstangi or Blönduós. The drive there is an additional 40 minutes but well worth it. It is placed out on Vatnsnes peninsula, away from the typical tourist route. 

To many Icelanders, this place is pure magic. Not only because of its fairytale-like form but also because of its link to local folklore.

Some say that Hvítserkur is actually a petrified troll and once this very troll is said to have lived in Strandir, east of Hvítserkur. A few fjords away was a church called Þingeyrarkirkja. Henceforth, loud noises from its church bells would often be heard around the region. In short, this would send the troll into a craze.

He set off to rip them down but took too long and turned to stone midway. There he stands still today.

6. Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park needs no introduction. This UNESCO world heritage site is one of three stops forming the Golden Circle . Therefore being one of the most visited places in Iceland. It is not just a place of groundbreaking history – pun intended – but also a place where the ground literally breaks or put precisely, where the North American and the Eurasian continental plates meet and drift apart. This you can see with your eyes and the most adventurous can even snorkel or dive in between the plates.

Even though Þingvellir is largely recognized today for its immense beauty and geological wonders, it once played a different role. The Vikings would gather there to host Alþingi, Iceland’s parliament.

The parliament was founded in the year 930 making it one of the oldest parliaments in the world. You can just picture the scene when you visit. The leading Viking standing tall on Lögberg rock and reciting all the laws for the crowd. 

Furthermore, if you feel like you recognize this place. You just might. Þingvellir was one of the shooting locations of Game of Thrones and the Almannagjá gorge is where the walk to the Vail is seen take place.

5. Geysir/Strokkur

Geysir is the first thing about Iceland you can read about in old travel books. The spouting hot spring that could reach the tallest skyscrapers sparked a story that traveled far. It later became the namesake to all the other geysers in the world and still, today holds the title. Sadly it hasn’t erupted for some time.

Nonetheless, you are in for quite a show, should you visit. Geysir’s baby brother Strokkur now holds the fort, shooting hot water into the sky every 4–10 minutes. Unlike his big brother, Strokkur is very timely and predictable.

Together with Þingvellir and Gullfoss, the trio makes up the Golden Circle. Undoubtedly the most popular tour in Iceland.

4. Gullfoss

Gullfoss or ‘Golden Falls’ is a marvelous two-story water cascade in South Iceland. 

It is the third attraction of the Golden Circle and to many photographers the highlight. No matter the season, this powerful waterfall is visible, sending water rushing down its glacier-carved canyon for viewers to admire. 

Gullfoss’ water comes from a the nearby Langjökull glacier, which is the second-largest glacier in Iceland. As well as feeding Gullfoss, the Langjökull glacier is also the source of the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

The waterfall has 3 different viewing points from which allow you to take in the glory. We recommend to visit all of them but know that the viewpoint closest to the falls will have you leaving damp!

Other extraordinary waterfalls in Iceland include Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Svartifoss, Goðafoss, Dettifoss, Dynjandi, Hengifoss, and Hraunfossar.

2. Blue Lagoon

The first thing most people hear about Iceland is the Blue Lagoon . Perhaps not surprisingly given its incredible unique location, color, and medically proven healing powers. It is located smack in the middle of the Reykjanes peninsula between Keflavík airport and Reykjavík, making it the ideal stop on the way to or from the airport.

Today the Blue Lagoon is a world-class spa with a built-in bar, lava flooring, steam cave, sauna, massage area in the water… the list just goes on. You now have options to stay at two different hotels and bathe in the geothermal waterfalls throughout the day.

Additionally, there are amazing restaurants, both Lava and Moss and the menus are packed with delicious Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist. There is no shortage of things to do at the Blue Lagoon. In conclusion, this is the perfect place to recharge or get that jet lag out of your system!  

The story of the Blue Lagoon

The story of the Blue Lagoon is quite strange as its existence comes to be by pure accident. The Reykjanes peninsula on which it stands on is known for its admirable geothermal powers and the energy has been utilized for a long time. The power plant drills down for hot water, which then shoots up and pushes the turbine to create electricity.

On a very noteworthy day, the plant workers were drilling down a new hole when odd water came up. For some reason, they decided to just to see what happens. Unfortunately, the water was not like any other water. In fact, its materials quickly started coating the turbines, shutting them down completely.

This meant bad news. Iceland isn’t exactly known for warm weather and the people were in dire need. So, as quickly as they could the workers dumped the water and went back to an old hole.

However, the material in the water coated the sharp lava rocks and a lagoon was formed. Little did anyone know what was happening.

The first soak in the Blue Lagoon

Due to the unique turquoise color of the water, people were frightened of it and thought it to be poisonous. However, one man, Valur Márgeirsson, who had worked in the plant thought off it in a different way. He had psoriasis and no cure had worked. While he had worked with the turquoise water his hands seemed to get better. This Valur noticed and talked it over with his doctor.

In spite of not receiving good feedback initially, Valur found a doctor who said it was worth a shot. Geothermal bathing is a longstanding tradition in Iceland and he pretty much couldn’t get worse. 

So, Valur decided to give it a shot and took a bath in the ‘dangerous’ lagoon. Remarkably, after only a few dips he was much better! Word spread and in only about 30 years this place has grown to the facility you see today. All thanks to a brave man named Valur.

1. Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon (and Diamond Beach)

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is in a league of its own. This glistening utopia is located on the southeast coast of Iceland, about 6 hours’ drive from Reykjavík. The surrounding area is dominated by the great Vatnajökull glacier which is Europe’s largest glacier. In fact, Vatnajökull’s outlet glacier Breiðamerkurjökull feeds the lagoon.

The name, Jökulsárlón, would roughly translate as ‘glacial river lagoon’, which sums its up quite well. Actually, the lagoon is the deepest found in Iceland carved out by the river and its feeding glacier.

The multicolored icebergs break off Breiðamerkurjökull, to drop into the lagoon only to keep floating around until they reach the black beach below. Once they have made it to the beach, the icebergs are much smaller. This is where most spent their last moments before being united with the Atlantic Ocean.

This black sand beach where they melt away is therefore often called the Diamond Beach. 

The icebergs in Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon can be in many different colors. Which usually has to due with the amount of oxygen inside each block. In the summertime, visitors can join boat tours to get closer to the icebergs. An experience many say they will never forget. 

Seals swim around in the lagoon and the arctic tern is the dominant bird in the area. Jökulsárlón is a lively place despite being surrounded by ancient ice. It is a place of true serenity. When you sit at its bay and watch the icebergs slowly float around you recharge somehow. This gets me every time!

• Hot springs ,

About the author

Ragnheiður is a nature lover first and foremost, having studied anthropology and media at university. She also loves sharing her passion about her home country, Iceland, with everyone she meets. You’ll often find her traveling the Icelandic countryside, especially the Westfjords and south coast, although her hometown is Reykjavík. Her interests include Icelandic food and drink, plants and wildlife, and cultural traditions.

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Money latest: JD Sports introducing tagging sprays in stores

JD Sports is introducing tagging sprays across its stores nationwide as part of a ramping up of security measures. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment in the box.

Tuesday 30 April 2024 21:02, UK

• State pensions 'could be in doubt for future generations'
• Average UK rents hit new high
• Higher food prices warning as new Brexit checks begin
• JD Sports introducing tagging sprays in stores

Essential reads

• Turns out supermarket boss was right about self-checkouts
• Swap rates are the reason mortgage rates are rising - what are they?
• Gameboys and 1950s furniture: Items in your attic that could be worth small fortune
• Money Problem : 'Builders won't repair dodgy work - what are my rights?'  
• '£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches
• Train strikes in May - everything you need to know

Ask a question or make a comment

Taxpayers will be forced to cover £85bn of losses made by the Bank of England on its quantitative easing programme, estimates suggest. 

The £895bn bond-buying scheme was carried out between 2009 and 2021, and had aimed to support the UK during economic shocks - but it has been blamed by some for allowing inflation to take root. 

Recent chancellors have agreed to indemnify the Bank against any losses on the scheme - meaning the taxpayer will be paying for them.

Greene King is moving from its 200-year-old brewery in Bury St Edmunds. 

The pub chain will be opening a new £40m facility in a town that will produce more modern, fizzy craft beers alongside its traditional cask ales. 

The majority of Greene King's brewing will be moved to the new site, as part of a wider shift away from traditional cask beers. 

It will take about three years to complete. 

Butlin's has launched legal action against its insurance company Aviva over who foots a £60m bill.

The holiday park operator's Minehead resort was forced to close in September 2023 because of flooding caused by heavy rainfall.

It has said the incident cost the business £60m and has filed a claim at the High Court against Aviva for not covering the entire bill.

In legal documents seen by  The Telegraph , Butlins have questioned the definition of a "storm" and argued that a "named storm" had not been declared when the flooding happened.

Oil traders working for the US firm Exxon Mobil Corp in Brussels could lose their job if they refuse to move to London, according to reports.

Under the new proposal employees moving to the UK capital would be expected to be in the office five days a week.

But traders working for the oil giant said in an internal union-led survey they did not want to move to London due to "uncompetitive" pay and a "lack of flexibility", a union statement reads, according to  Bloomberg .

Up to 37 trading employees now face having their contracts terminated as a result of this.

ExxonMobil has said it "remains open to resolving the situation".

The sports retailer is introducing tagging sprays across its stores nationwide as part of a ramping up of security measures. 

It will start using SelectaDNA sprays, which can be misted on property and criminals. 

The sprays work by leaving a synthetic DNA and UV marker which does not wash off and can be used to link assets to owners and criminals to crime scenes. 

JD Sports said the measure was in response to a significant increase in shoplifting in UK.

In particular, it said it had seen a rise in "steaming" - where large gangs run into stores, threaten staff with violence and then run off with armfuls of stolen products.

The SelectaDNA spray reportedly does not cause any harm or damage to skin, clothing or property.

Lidl plans to open hundreds more supermarkets across Britain.

The German discount chain, which is now the UK's sixth biggest supermarket, is targeting thousands of new shoppers as it continues its expansion.

It currently has about 960 stores but is targeting more than 1,100 across England, Wales and Scotland.

In the coming months, the chain will welcome shoppers to new stores across the country, from Bristol, Birmingham and Berwick in Scotland. 

In London, it will be opening new stores in Wandsworth, Fulham, Hoxton and Canning Town.

But it says it is eyeing growth in more locations. If it successfully finds a good location, it is willing to pay a finder's fee of 1.5% of the total freehold purchase price, or 10% of the first year's rent for leaseholds, which would equate to £22,500 for a completed £1.5m site purchase.

A finder's fee can be paid to any member of the public who identifies a suitable site for it to open a new store.

Richard Taylor, Lidl Great Britain's chief development officer, said the company was "continuing to invest in new locations whilst exploring innovative routes to expansion".

"As we look ahead, we're excited to welcome even more new shoppers to our existing stores, as well as those we're planning to open across the country in the coming months and years," he said.

Mortgage approvals rose to 61,300 in March - the highest number since September 2022.

They had been at 60,500 in February, according to the Bank of England.

While this is positive, industry experts are reporting that uncertainty over the direction of interest rates this year is prompting caution.

Mortgage rates have risen in the last few weeks as markets went from pricing in a base rate cut in June to thinking it may be August.

US inflation proving stubborn has led to concern here that the path to the 2% target may be bumpy - meaning the base rate may have to stay high in order to constrain spending and thus ease price rises.

Forecasts of three cuts this year from the current 5.25% have been scaled back to two.

Hina Bhudia, partner at Knight Frank Finance, said: "The sun is out and buyers are returning from their Easter break, so we'd usually expect these to be the busy weeks before the summer; however, the uncertain outlook for mortgage rates will undoubtedly weigh on activity.

"It's not just buyers that are frustrated. The lenders are eager to rebuild their businesses after a subdued 2023; however, they are constrained by stubborn inflation and the resulting impact on their cost of funding."

Following Sainsbury's boss Simon Roberts' claim that Britons like self-checkouts...

...we asked Money blog readers, and followers of our LinkedIn page , for their views.

While our inbox was filled with a lot of hate for self-checkouts, our poll of 2,613 people on LinkedIn shows that, overall, Mr Roberts was right...

We have rounded up some of your views here...

Self-checkout is the worst thing to ever happen. Standing like a child with your hand up, one person running up and down to deal with this, underpaid and understaffed. Janice Karaaziz, Money reader

I'll go out of my way to find a cashier, largely because my five-year-old will make a beeline for pressing the scales. I've noticed my local store having fewer and fewer cashiers on - and on many occasions there have been none. We need to think about inclusivity here. There will be some customers who will need a cashier for various reasons, so would expect there to always be at least one on, so stores are accessible for everyone. KaraS, LinkedIn

I try and limit my social interactions as much as possible, out of choice, so most of the time self-checkouts are convenient. Alasdair Corton, LinkedIn

They induce a level of irritation. Sometimes I can be heard answering them back. In general I choose to have my items flung at me by Lidl checkout staff. Siobhan W, LinkedIn

Self-checkout provides a great alternative to customers, especially those with smaller quantity purchases, but personally I think it's sad to see them dominate the front of Sainsbury's stores. In my opinion, it's the removal of one of the greatest ways to provide good customer service. Tom Tregay, LinkedIn

Self-checkouts are great, I will always choose to use one instead of a normal checkout. Some are easier to use than others, the Co-op and Tesco have easy-to-use interfaces whereas Morrisons is a bit more complicated. They'll evolve over time and there's always staff to help out. CG, LinkedIn

They're useful, but when they trigger a "basket check" on nearly every single shop, they begin to lose attractiveness Nicola Bradley, LinkedIn

I tend to argue with them lol. Especially when I can't get it to scan a particular item or you need approval for something so you have to wait for assistance anyway! Plus as a disabled customer I have to juggle my crutch, shopping, scanning and packing. With reduced staff in shops you can't always get the help you actually need. Elizabeth Graney, LinkedIn

Definitely not. So when I go to Sainsbury's I see a lot of older people and no way do they want to use self-checkouts. My mother lives in assisted living and all of them say they hate them. Get a grip, Simon - they are not faster, they are saving you employing more staff. I know my aunt has stood at an Asda til they put a staff member on there. Andrea Robinson, LinkedIn

Robots should never replace humans. Interaction is essential... if machines replace people no one will work, it's a crazy dangerous road. Nicola van Eerten, LinkedIn

The self-checkout is a money-saving exercise. They cut back everywhere. No staff on the shop floor to help. Paper bags in the veg section now cost 30p - for absolutely no reason. Mark, Money reader

Average advertised rents have hit a new high in the UK, according to Rightmove .

Across Britain, excluding London, the average monthly rent being asked for a property coming on the market in the first quarter of 2024 was £1,291, the property website found. This was 8.5% higher than a year earlier.

The average advertised rent in London also hit a fresh high in the first quarter of 2024 at £2,633 per month but this was just £2 higher than the average asking rent in the fourth quarter of 2023.

While average rents have climbed, the property website says there are signs that the pace of the increases is slowing.

There are also indications that more landlords are having to reduce their asking rents, particularly for bigger homes, to meet what tenants can afford.

Rightmove's director of property science, Tim Bannister, said the rental market was "no longer at peak boiling point" but it "remains at a very hot simmer".

By James Sillars , business reporter

The index rose by 0.3% to 8,174 points at the open.

Only real estate stocks were proving any kind of drag.

Among the companies leading the gainers was HSBC.

It climbed by more than 2.6% in London after the Asia-focused bank announced a rise in shareholder awards despite a slight drop in quarterly profits.

The share price reaction also reflected news that chief executive Noel Quinn is to retire - read the full story of that here ...

Among the other gainers in early dealing was Whitbread.

The Premier Inn owner's annual results revealed a sharp rise in annual profits but also a new focus on hotel investment at the expense of its restaurant brands.

That was placing 1,500 jobs at risk, it warned - read the full story here ...

By Jess Sharp , Money team

We first came across Tom McPhail when he posted this on X... 

The pensions expert appeared to be suggesting state pensions were at risk of disappearing.  

After speaking to him on the phone, he confirmed that was exactly his concern, warning something needed to be done sooner rather than later to avoid a "catastrophic" situation.  

He described state pensions as a social contract – each generation pays taxes and national insurance, which funds the pensions of today's older people, and they hope the following generation will do the same for them.

But with population growth slowing, there's a worry there may simply not be enough people to keep the system afloat in the future.  

"There's a significant demographic shift going on in the UK. It started before the Second World War, cohorts of people born in the 1930s have been experiencing significantly longer lives than was the case prior to that, so people now in their 80s are living quite a lot longer," he said. 

"But at the same time, we've got fewer children coming through. And so this exacerbates the shift in the age of the population."

He said if he was 20 today, he would be "sceptical" about the promise of a state pension because he isn't sure how it's going to be paid for.  

At the moment, the state pension system costs around £120bn a year and more than half of retired people rely on it to make up at least 50% of their income, he added.  

Over the next 50 years, Tom predicts the proportion of GDP the state spends on older people will increase from around 16% to 25%.  

"I hesitate to use the word unsustainable, but it will certainly start to look challenging," he said.  

"If we suddenly switched off the state pension or significantly reduced it, people would be in trouble, so the government can’t do that. 

"You can't keep on progressively ratcheting up a more and more generous state pension. The costs of state pensions is going to become increasingly difficult for the younger cohorts to bear."

He pointed to a few ways to potentially salvage the state pension – policy change, more babies being born or people working until they are in their 70s.  

"Politicians are going to have to make decisions about how to get out of this kind of political bind," Tom added. 

"Time and time again it's just kick the can down the road on the pension question, just put a sticking plaster on it and let the next government deal with the problem. 

"You can't keep doing that. So I would really like to see, on the other side of this forthcoming general election... whoever's in power, in collaboration with whoever's in opposition, to just really open it up to some honest conversations about where the demographics are going to take us." 

He does note there is one piece of good news: "This happens quite slowly, so we do have time on our side." 

Basically, swap rates dictate the pricing of fixed-rate mortgages.

Lenders, such as banks and building societies, borrow in order to lend.

They borrow from financial markets and often these transactions are made using Sterling Overnight Index Average (SONIA) swap rates, which can move around.

By contrast, most domestic mortgages are set on what is known as a "term" rate – in other words, the borrower knows how much interest they will be paying for a set period of time.

To avoid a situation where the SONIA rate goes above the rate it is charging borrowers, which would leave the bank or building society lending at a loss, the lender will seek to enter a "swap" arrangement which protects them from such a situation.

Under such agreements, two parties exchange cash flows with each other. The lending bank will swap the variable payments it may make to service a mortgage (which is fixed to the SONIA rate) for payments at a fixed rate. This insulates the lending bank from unexpected increases in the SONIA rate.

Once a deal is struck based on the swap rate, mortgage providers set their fixed deals for customers, with their own profit margin priced in.

How are swap rates decided?

Swap rates are based on what the markets think will happen to interest rates in the future.

When they go up, so do the rates being offered on the high street, as we have seen in the last week or two amid uncertainty over whether forecasts for a summer base rate cut are accurate.

Read other entries in our Basically... series:

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Most Unique Experiences in Iceland

• Go Dog Sledding
• Explore a Volcano - From the Inside

Do a Midnight Sun Activity

Midnight sun: horseback riding, midnight sun: golf, midnight sun: hot springs, midnight sun: glacier hiking, midnight sun: kayaking, see iceland from above by helicopter, admire the northern lights.

• Snorkel Between the Continents
• Visit a Natural Ice Cave

Snowmobile on a Glacier

Iceland is a country unlike anywhere else in the world, boasting a wealth of rare attractions and exceptional activities. In this article, read on to check out eight of the most unique experiences that you can enjoy during your stay Iceland.

Iceland is full of exciting activities and breathtaking landscapes. You can witness geysers, waterfalls, glaciers , volcanoes, valleys and endless stretches of black sandy beaches. For activities, you can go hiking, biking, snowmobiling , kayaking or just soak up the warmth of a natural hot spring. The options are endless. 

Top Adventure Tours in Iceland

Best ice cave tour in vatnajokull glacier starting from jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, inside the volcano thrihnukagigur tour with transfer from reykjavik, small group tour of snaefellsnes national park with transfer from reykjavik.

With so much on offer, it is hard to pinpoint both the best places to go and the most exceptional things to do. Some experiences can only be enjoyed in the summertime, others only in wintertime, some all year long—the most unique only happen occasionally (such as volcanoes erupting!). 

Witnessing a volcanic eruption has got to be the most spectacular and unique experience that Iceland has to offer. The last eruption stopped in February 2015, but while we wait on the next one, here are a few natural phenomena and activities that we think stand out from the crowd, making Iceland a unique and unforgettable destination.

Go Dog Sledding         

Not many people can say they've been dogsledding in their lifetime, so if you're looking for a unique activity where all you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the view, then dog sledding is a good pick for you!

It's possible to go dog sledding here all year round, either on dry land or across the snowy fields of Iceland's countryside. If the conditions are right, one could even sled across one of the country's might glaciers. 

Thankfully, dog sledding can picked up easily. Two people mount each sled (plus the Musher steering the sled), who are then whisked off through the beautiful landscape by 6-8 energetic and adorable Husky dogs. Most of the dogs come from Greenland, although there are also some Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Huskies. If you're a dog lover, you'll find this is the right tour for you!

Enjoy the scenic landscape, remember to dress warmly (or, at least, according to the weather), and get ready to rub some furry bellies. 

Top Dog Sledding Tours

Explore a volcano - from the inside.

Iceland is known the world over as the land of ice and fire. As well as containing a multitude of glaciers and snow-peaked mountains,  volcanoes are also dotted around the island. Þríhnjúkagígur volcano, in the south of Iceland, is just one of them but stands as a prime example of just how incredible these geological phenomena are. The volcano's name translates to 'Three Top Crater', though it has not erupted since the second century BC, making it perfectly safe to enter.

What makes this volcano unique is the fact that you can actually go inside the magma chamber! The magma chamber is 213 metres deep (699 ft) and covers 3,270 square metres (35,200 sq ft). To get there, you will board a specially constructed elevator that will you take you all the way down to the bottom.

Two bands have played inside Þríhnúkagígur's magma chamber to date. The Icelandic band, Kaleo, performed their song 'Way Down We Go' for a live recording, and the American artist Chino Moreno of Deftones held a public concert in 2016 for the music festival, Secret Solstice.

Exploring the inside of the volcano is a colourful and exciting experience that’s not to be missed by any serious traveller to Iceland. The Inside The Volcano tour  is available in the summertime only, from the 15 th of May until the end of September. 

• Read more about Volcanoes in Iceland here

Any activity during an Icelandic summer night instantly becomes unique with the gorgeous midnight sun  hovering above. The midnight sun only occurs during summertime, meaning the following experiences are only available sometime between late May to early August.

Horseback riding in Iceland is always a unique experience as the Icelandic horses are famous for having an extra gait and being smaller than horses elsewhere. So how do you make a horseback riding trip even more unique? By doing it under the midnight sun, of course. Where else in the world can boast trail riding quite so surreal as this?

Top Horse Riding Tours

• See also: The Icelandic Horse | A Comprehensive Guide

In Iceland, you have the distinctive opportunity to play golf throughout the summer nights; many golf courses are open 24 hours a day, allowing golfers a seemingly endless amount of time to smack a ball into a hole. You might be surprised to hear that Iceland boasts a wide variety of golf courses; for such a small population, there are, in total, 65 golf courses found all over the country. Many of them are easily accessible, whilst some are a challenge to even the most experienced players. 16 of these courses are 18-hole, 2 of them are 27-hole, but most golf courses in Iceland have 9 holes. 

Unfortunately, Iceland is known to be quite windy, however, the wind often dies down in the bright summer nights. You'll also be rewarded with incredible scenery on Icelandic golf courses, playing within lava fields with views towards impressive mountainscapes or out towards the open Atlantic Ocean.

For golf enthusiasts, the courses here offer an experience quite like anywhere else, a point made all the truer during the midnight sun season. To make it even more appealing, the courses are also surprisingly affordable, with many even offering a special discount for couples. 

Iceland is full of hot springs, be they man-made hot tubs or naturally warm rivers. The greater Reykjavík area has 18 swimming pools, as well as a hot foot bath by Grandi and a beach with geothermally heated water.

Around Iceland, one can easily stumble across natural hot springs, though the highest density is found in the Westfjords area. Nothing beats relaxing in a secluded hot spring during the summer; it is truly one of the most wonderful experiences that Iceland has to offer. 

Top Hot Spring Tours in Iceland

• See also: The 5 Best Hot Springs in Iceland
• See also: Best Swimming Pools in Iceland

Visiting a glacier is a unique activity on its own. Although glaciers can be found all over the world, they are slowly diminishing and one glacier in Iceland has already lost its glacier status, the former glacier 'Ok'. The sad reality is, if you would like to hike on a glacier, you should do it sooner rather than later.

In summer, the days don’t get dark and the evenings are cool but bright and bathed in a gorgeous mix of sunset and sunrise. In other words, the conditions are perfect to go hiking!

Iceland boasts many mountains, volcanoes, glaciers and hiking trails; an endless plethora of trails from which to choose from. There are multiple glacier & ice cap tours available, but here is also one example of a  midnight sun glacier hiking  tour. 

Top Glacier Tours

• Read more about Glaciers in Iceland here 

What better way to get close to the nature you are admiring than to get on the water and actually interact with your surroundings. Kayaking presents the opportunity to take in the natural wonder of the landscape in a completely different way and see things from unique angles unknowable from land.

Kayaking in the midnight sun is an authentic and exciting way to take in the breathtaking sights whilst the warm glowing sunlight reflects off the water. The radiance and warmth of the persistent sun will feel genuinely neverending while you navigate Iceland's rich and clean waters.

You can book a midnight sun kayaking tour here to see one of Iceland's most iconic landmarks bathed in the rich oranges and reds of summertime. 

Top Kayaking Tours

There’s nothing quite like seeing Iceland from above – and what better way to do it than in a helicopter? A helicopter brings you high enough to see the vast landscapes from above but is also able to get up close, even landing in spots rarely explored by your average, land-dwelling mammal.

By going on a helicopter tour, you’ll be able to see some parts of Iceland that are otherwise impossible to reach, such as the lava-spewing ground zero of Iceland’s last volcanic eruption. You can also choose to fly over Reykjavík, or over glaciers and waterfalls, perhaps even making a stop at Eyjafjallajökull volcano, just to feel the warm lava still bubbling underneath the surface. The choice, once again, is yours.

Helicopter tours can be arranged all year round, weather depending. 

Top Helicopter Tours

Seeing the Northern Lights is on the bucket list of many people and Iceland is an excellent location to make that dream a reality, despite their notorious elusiveness. Although they occur all year round, it needs to be dark (and a clear sky) to be able to see them—as reality would have it, the lights are only visible in wintertime since the summers don't get dark!

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is between late August/early September through until the end of April. Here you can find more  information about the Northern Lights .

Top Northern Lights Tours & Holidays

Snorkel between the continents.

Plunge into ice-cold water and discover the incredible and unique beauty that exists just metres below the rippling surface.

Þingvellir National Park is a part of the popular  Golden Circle  route and holds Iceland’s largest lake, Þingvallavatn. This is the location where you can see two tectonic plates, the American and the Euro-Asian plate, gradually breaking apart year by year. It is the only place on the entire planet where you can see both tectonic plates exposed dramatically from the earth. 

You can also swim between the two plates by going diving or snorkelling in Silfra, a gorge that’s filled with crystal clear water—so clear, in fact, that the visibility is more than 100 meters! Snorkelling is available all year round.

Top Diving Tours

• See also: Diving and Snorkelling in Iceland

Visit a Natural Ice Cave

Surely the most unique adventure to experience in Iceland is to visit a blue ice cave, found deep inside one of the country's awesome glaciers.

Iceland is brimming with glaciers, some of which are host to some truly spectacular ice caves. These caves are carved out by glacial rivers, caused by the melting ice cap above, during the summertime. The blue colour of the ice really shines through as you walk inside a glacier cave, an unforgettable experience in itself. 

This 2-day tour takes you inside an ice cave, along with other winter attractions of South Iceland

Given that, in summer, the caves are filled with water, it is only possible to explore inside during the winter months. The temperature needs to be cold enough for the ice to stay frozen, meaning that the ice cave season is between mid-October and March; note that some operators do not start tours until November. If you're here in the summertime and still want to visit an ice cave, however, there is no need to despair. Ice tunnels, hundreds of metres long, have been dug through Iceland’s second-largest glacier, Langjökull.

These man-made ice tunnels are Iceland’s newest attraction and have been open from June 2015. During the construction process, a large glacier cave was found deep within the glacier, proving just how alien and unexplored these great ice caps are.

Besides being able to walk 200 metres into the depths of the glacier, where you will witness the stunning blue light in the ice, you can also get married inside an ice chapel, specially made for such occasions!  The ice tunnels  are available all year round.

Additionally, a natural ice cave is accessible near the volcano, Katla. However, the ice inside this natural cave is not blue, though it still presents a unique opportunity to go ice caving during the Icelandic summer! Book the Katla ice cave tour here. 

Top Ice Cave Tours

Snowmobiling in Iceland is, without doubt, one of the most unique, exhilarating and memorable activities that can be undertaken in the country, offering unprecedented access to incredible, untouched ice-caps. Unlike glacier hiking, snowmobiling does away with the need for a physical excursion, allowing you to pick up heart-thumping speeds with the flick of a wrist. 

Iceland’s glaciers act as a bare white canvas for snowmobilers, and whilst a professional and experienced guide will lead you on certain routes, there is still plenty of opportunities to independently weave and carve across these great frozen expanses. 

Three of the most popular ice caps for snowmobiling in Iceland are Langjökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Vatnajökull; snowmobiling on the former is often combined with the popular Golden Circle sightseeing route —tours routinely depart from Gullfoss waterfall car park—whilst the latter two are found along the picturesque South Coast. 

On a side note, Vatnajökull is Europe’s largest glacier, covering approximately 8% of Iceland’s land area, which makes it one of the optimum locations for snowmobiling on the continent. It is possible to go snowmobiling from Iceland's unofficial northern capital, Akureyri, or alternatively, in the mystical 'Troll's Peninsula,'  Tröllaskagi.

Top Snowmobile Tours

What will be your unique experience in Iceland? Have you composed your own bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!

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Top things to do in Iceland

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Explore an Ice Cave

Visit a Live Volcano

Find the Northern Lights

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours