Iceland is an incredibly scenic and surprisingly accessible country that’s quickly becoming a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the world. With its active volcanoes, mesmerizing waterfalls, vast lava fields, geothermal pools, nature parks, and striking black sand beaches, Iceland offers a landscape that’s almost otherworldly.
If you’re planning a trip, here are some of our top recommendations for places to visit and experiences to have in this beautiful country.
Reykjavik:
As the capital city, Reykjavik is usually the starting point for most visitors. It’s a charming city, known for its colorful buildings, vibrant nightlife, fascinating museums, and excellent restaurants. It also holds the title of being the world’s most northerly capital, and we believe it’s one of the prettiest capitals in Europe. Imagine small, scenic houses set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the vast ocean. In the winter, you might catch the Northern Lights with a good forecast, and in the summer, the city enjoys nearly 22 hours of daylight.
When in Reykjavik, make sure to visit Hallgrimskirkja, a striking Lutheran church that towers at 74.5 meters high, making it one of the tallest buildings in the country. Another highlight is the golden-sanded geothermal beach at Nautholsvik, which is a little oasis with a warm lagoon and a steaming hot tub, perfect for relaxation. Don’t miss Reykjavik’s geothermal pools filled with volcanic water; they are absolutely heavenly.
Blue Lagoon:
A short trip from Reykjavik will lead you to the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous thermal pools. Set in a black lava field near the road between Keflavik and Grindavik, the Blue Lagoon offers a unique bathing experience with water temperatures between 37-39°C, rich with silica, algae, and mineral salts that are great for the skin.
Golden Circle Route:
If you’re short on time, the Golden Circle Route is a fantastic way to see some of Iceland’s main attractions in a day. This 250 km route includes some spectacular sights and is an ideal day trip from Reykjavik.
Puffin Watching:
Puffins, with their bright-colored beaks, are one of Iceland’s beloved birds. Around 60% of the world’s puffin population comes to breed in Iceland during the summer. You can spot these charming birds in colonies on coastal cliffs or offshore islands, particularly at locations such as Latrabjarg, Lundey, and Vestmannaeyjar.
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis):
The Northern Lights are a magical natural phenomenon you can witness in Iceland’s high-latitude regions. These stunning lights occur when solar wind collides with the earth’s atmosphere. The best time to see the Northern Lights is from September to mid-April, and some of the prime viewing spots include Dimmuborgir, Westfjords, Vík, and Thingvellir National Park. For those who prefer not to drive, guided tours are available to enhance your aurora-chasing experience.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula:
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is one of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes, featuring volcanic peaks, lava fields, sea cliffs, and lush fjords. Highlights include the Berserkjahraun lava field with its expansive black volcanic rock formations covered in green moss, the charming harbor town of Stykkisholmur, and the picturesque Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, which is set beside the iconic Kirkjufell mountain. Whale-watching excursions in Olafsvik and visits to the beautiful golden sands of Skardsvik Bay are also must-dos. Additionally, Snæfellsjökull National Park, home to the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull stratovolcano, offers incredible hiking opportunities, especially in the summer.
Waterfalls:
Iceland boasts some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world. Dettifoss, located in Vatnajökull National Park, is the largest waterfall in Europe by volume and absolutely awe-inspiring. Another must-see is Gljúfrafoss, a hidden gem inside a cave that requires a bit of an adventure to access. Godafoss, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” is a stunning sight with its curved, 12-meter-high drop, conveniently located along the main ring road. Don’t miss the majestic Skogafoss on the Skógá River, standing 60 meters high and 25 meters wide. Lastly, Seljalandsfoss is famous for allowing visitors to walk behind its 63-meter-high cascades, offering a unique perspective of the waterfall.
Iceland is rich with natural wonders and cultural experiences that ensure a memorable visit. From its dynamic volcanic landscapes to its charming cities and extraordinary wildlife, this island nation offers adventure and beauty at every turn.