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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.

Jessica Chapel

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

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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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.

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!

40 Best Things To Do In Iceland: Ultimate Iceland Bucket List

March 14, 2023 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the best things to do in Iceland ? This guide has some of the most amazing places to visit in Iceland.

When people think of the best activities in Iceland, they often think of hot springs, glaciers, and waterfalls. And while Iceland does have all of those amazing natural wonders, it has even more to offer!

This magical country also has stark black sand beaches, winding canyons, adorable churches, and gravity-defying rock formations. Basically, the list of interesting places in Iceland can go on and on!

Whether this is your first trip to Iceland or you have been many times in the past, we bet you will find something new and exciting to see in this amazing country!

We have broken this list down by region so you can easily use it to write your own Iceland itinerary.

No matter when you are plan n ing to go to Iceland , there will be something epic to see!

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

Best Things To Do In South Iceland

Soak in the warmth of the blue lagoon.

If you are looking for what to do in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is undeniably one of the most popular attractions in the Land of Fire and Ice!

There are a ton of hot springs in Iceland and the Blue Lagoon, found just outside of Reykjavik, is one of the most notable because of its iconic, milky blue color.

This color comes from a mix of algae, silica, and minerals. The minerals are great for your skin and the constant 102-degree Fahrenheit water will relax your muscles.

This is easily one of the best Reykjavik hot springs , but it can be a bit pricey. Check out our tips on traveling to Iceland on a budget .

Book Here: Blue Lagoon: Entry Ticket with Drink, Towel, and Mud Mask

Hike To Bruarfoss Waterfall

There are so many stunning waterfalls in Iceland , and the Bruarfoss Waterfall is one of them!

While Bruarfoss Waterfall is quite small in comparison to the other Iceland waterfalls, it’s the colors that make it stand out.

With its brilliant, turquoise water, this waterfall pops with dazzling hues. These colors actually make it one of the most popular stops of the Golden Circle .

The easy hike to the waterfall is about 2.2 miles and very scenic with two other waterfalls along the way.

Watch the Eruption of Strokkur

Another Golden Circle attraction is Strokkur, an epic geyser in the Haukadalur Valley.

This geyser is very active, shooting into the sky every five to ten minutes. It usually reaches heights of about 50 to 60 feet but has been known to break 100 feet.

Interestingly, this geyser is found next to Geysir. This is where the word geyser comes from, however, it is no longer active.

This is one of the best day trips from Reykjavik . If you are traveling with your family, it is also one of the best things to do in Iceland with kids.

Book Here: Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater

Hike Through Þakgil Valley

Þakgil, or Thakgil, Valley is filled with marvelous hikes through a greenery-laden canyon. The name means “Roof Canyon.”

Just as Iceland is filled with so many different geographical features, Þakgil Valley is as well. While you can hike through canyons, you can also venture to glaciers and trek to waterfalls.

There is also one of the best campsites in Iceland here. Make sure to check out our complete guide on camping in Iceland !

Feel The Spray Of The Gullfoss Waterfall

The Gullfoss Waterfall is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the country, making it one of the most fun things to do in Iceland. Its name means “Golden Falls.”

It’s so powerful you can feel the waterfall mist fleck your face. As a matter of fact, the mist of this 105-foot waterfall often creates a colorful rainbow during summer in Iceland , making a picture-perfect image.

If you want to see a waterfall that does not require a hike, Gullfoss is for you. It is only a short walk to the main viewpoint.

Book Here: Reykjavik: The Golden Circle Day Tour

Take A Dip In The Reykjadalur Hot Springs

Reykjadalur Hot Springs is one of the coolest hot springs in Iceland !

Typically, when people think of a hot spring, they think of a warm, natural pool. Reykjadalur Hot Springs is a little different, in that it is a river rather than a pool.

To reach Reykjadalur Hot Springs, you will have to hike for about an hour and the trail is steep. The hike boasts a beauty of its own, including untouched waterfalls and grazing sheep.

Keep in mind that there are no changing rooms here, only partitions that provide a little privacy.

Even so , this is one of the cool things to do in Iceland for a great memory!

Book Here: Private Reykjadalur Hike & Hot River Geothermal Tour

Peek Behind The Magic Of The Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Typically, you can view waterfalls from in front or above. The Seljalandsfoss Waterfall provides an alternate viewing experience as you can venture behind this cascading 200-foot waterfall!

While you can visit the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall at any time of the year, do know that the path behind the waterfall may close temporarily in the winter for your safety.

The waterfall is only a short walk from the parking lot.

Book Here: From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip

And Then Find The Gljufrabui Waterfall

While everyone goes to see the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, most have no idea that the Gljufrabui Waterfall is not far away!

To reach the Gljufrabui Waterfall, head right from Seljalandsfoss and continue until you see a sign for the Gljufrabui Waterfall. You’ll see a cavern with a river, and you’ll have to hop through the river on the rocks (preferably in waterproof boots).

Then, when you finally reach the cavern, you’ll find the Gljufrabui Waterfall. When you look up, you’ll be standing at the base of a 130-foot waterfall and a natural skylight.

It truly feels like an otherworldly place and should be on any Iceland itinerary!

Peek At The Skogafoss Waterfall From Above

Many of the best things to do in Iceland are hopping from one waterfall to another. Why not add the Skogafoss Waterfall to your list?

This 200-foot waterfall can be viewed from both the base and from the top.

Both views are wonderful, but, if you’re adventurous enough to climb the 500 steps to the top, you can continue your adventure with an extended hike along the Skoga River to hunt for a few more breathtaking Icelandic waterfalls.

Book Here: South Coast Classic: Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik

Explore The Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

Situated on the Solheimasandur black sand beach, the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck looks like it was swiped from a dystopian Hollywood movie set.

In 1973, this DC-3 US navy plane crash-landed on the beach. Mercifully, everyone onboard survived, but the wreckage has remained for nearly fifty years!

It is a moderate 4.6-mile hike to the plane. It is a must-see in Iceland!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: South Coast, Plane Wreck, & Beach ATV Tour

Enjoy The Natural Set-Up Of The Hrunalaug Hot Springs

Hrunalaug Hot Springs is one of the small gems of Iceland. There are three different pools of warm water (all of different temperatures), so you can find the one you like best.

This wonderful hot spring can only hold about ten people before it starts feeling crowded, so plan accordingly!

If you do choose to visit Hrunalaug Hot Spring, please be respectful! Many recent visitors have not treated the hot spring well, causing the owner to consider closing it down.

Please do your part to keep this wonderful Iceland gem preserved and open.

Stare In Awe At Haifoss Waterfall

At over 400 feet, Haifoss Waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland. It’s accompanied by the just-as-tall Granni Waterfall, making this pair a force to be reckoned with.

You’d think this would be one of the busiest places to visit in Iceland, but that’s not the case. You need a 4×4 in Iceland to reach these flowing waterfalls, and it’s often closed off during the winter months.

All of that said, it’s one of the best stops on the South Coast and a must-do in Iceland.

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Landmannalaugar & Háifoss Waterfall Tour

Catch A Stunning View of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach From Dyrholaey

While you’ll have to venture off the paved road for a little bit, Dyrholaey is definitely worth a stop, especially if you’re tackling Iceland’s Ring Road .

In addition to a natural stone arch, Dyrholaey also presents unparalleled views of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

This is one of the best free things to do in Iceland if you love views!

Visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Then, after you’ve seen Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach from above, head down to the beach itself to see the stark black sand close up.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of the best black sand beaches in Iceland , due to its stark color, towering basalt columns, and roaring waves.

Make sure not to get close to the water and keep your eyes on the waves. The sneaker waves are dangerous and are known to take lives.

This beach is one of the best things to do in Vik !

Book Here: Iceland: Full-Day South Coast, Black Beach & Waterfalls Tour

Discover the Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is one of the best experiences you can have! This natural phenomenon is a sight to behold and is an Iceland bucket list activity.

The dancing lights can be spotted all over the country from September through March. There’s even the chance to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik if you are not able to venture far.

For the Northern Lights to be visible, the conditions have to be right. The sky needs to be dark and clear.

For the best chance to see the lights, consider booking a Northern Lights tour with experts who know where and when to look.

Check out our guide on photographing the Northern Lights too so you can capture some gorgeous photos while enjoying one of the top things to do in Iceland at night!

Book Here: Iceland: Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

Take A Game of Thrones Tour

Most Game of Thrones fans know that the most of otherworldly landscapes of the show are actually in Iceland.

While the filming locations for Game of Thrones are all around the country, most of them are along Iceland’s South Coast. So why not take a Game of Thrones tour during your time in Iceland?

You will see some of the most impressive landmarks in Iceland!

Best Things To Do In Southeast Iceland

Take in the views of fjadrargljufur canyon.

Between the astounding depth and brilliant greenery, the beauty of Fjadrargljufur Canyon lives up to the rest of Iceland’s attractions.

It is easily one of the best canyons in Iceland !

And in the winter, when snowflakes dust the canyon, it transforms it into a completely different landscape of wonder.

Recently, Fjadrargljufur Canyon has gained a lot of popularity. While lots of visitors can be great, many visitors have chosen to wander off the designated paths, consequently destroying some of the canyon’s beauty.

If you do choose to visit, please be respectful of the canyon and its rules! Moss, especially, should not be touched or stepped on. This is one of our top Iceland travel tips .

Get Your Fill Of Waterfalls In Mulagljufur Canyon

Mulagljufur Canyon rivals the depth and greenery of Fjadrargljufur Canyon while also boasting a couple of waterfalls.

Over the course of the 1.5-mile hike, you’ll meander through muddy pathways and cross over rivers before reaching the 164-foot Mulafoss and 400-foot Hangandifoss.

Because Mulagljufur Canyon is rather well-hidden, there’s a good chance you’ll have this Iceland hidden gem all to yourself.

Gape At the Towering Basalt Columns Surrounding The Svartifoss Waterfall

While the 65-foot Svartifoss Waterfall isn’t the tallest of Iceland’s waterfalls, it is still special enough to make it onto this list of the best things to do in Iceland.

What it lacks in height, it makes up for in towering basalt columns. These black, octagonal columns surround the flow of water until it reaches its natural pool at the base.

If you do choose to visit the Svartifoss Waterfall in Skaftafell Nature Preserve, be sure to pay attention to the signs and stick to the designated areas.

The natural landscape around this waterfall is particularly fragile, so please do your part to try to preserve it!

Take A Glacier Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a unique natural wonder. Once upon a time, it was a full-on glacier, but, over time, it has melted to become Iceland’s largest lake (although it does still include large chunks of the glacier).

During the summer months, the ice continues to melt, and the waters teem with wildlife. During winter in Iceland , these same waters start to refreeze.

Basically, every time you visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, it will look completely different.

The best way to immerse yourself in the wonder of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is by taking a glacier tour by boat.

Then, you’ll be able to sail through all of the hidden iceberg nooks rather than simply seeing what is visible from the shore. This is one of the best Iceland activities!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

Adore The Glacier Chunks Gracing The Black Sand Of Diamond Beach

Arguably just as cool as a glacier tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a visit to Diamond Beach.

Located just across the highway from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is littered with frozen glacier chunks!

When contrasted with the obsidian color of the sand, Diamond Beach makes for a truly one-of-a-kind landscape. It will also look different each time you visit.

Book Here: Reykjavik: South Coast Waterfall Tour with Diamond Beach

Best Things To Do In East Iceland

Stand in the shadow of the towering vestrahorn mountain.

Situated on the Stokksnes Peninsula, Vestrahorn Mountain is one of Iceland’s most memorable mountains.

There’s really no question of why this mountain made it onto this list of the best places to go in Iceland. The sharp gray peaks topped with a sprinkle of white snow contrast with the ebony-colored sand below.

As if this striking picture was not enough, you can also capture the coolest picture with Vestrahorn’s reflection in the waves of the black sand beach.

Then, add the warm colors of a sunrise or sunset, and it’s like pure magic. It is definitely one of the best Iceland photography locations !

Skip Along The Rainbow Street To The Sky Blue Church

In the tiny town of Seydisfjordur is one of the most adorable churches in Iceland : the Seydisfjordurkirkja Church.

A rainbow pathway leads through the town’s shops to this tiny powder-blue church. It’s sure to put a smile on your face!

The drive to one of the cutest towns in Iceland is picture-perfect as well. You will cruise through the mountains before coming down into the fjord.

It is one of the best places to visit in Iceland !

Tackle Two Hikes At Once To Hengifoss And Litlanesfoss

At a staggering 420 feet, Hengifoss is the third-highest waterfall in Iceland.

Unfortunately, it takes three miles of moderately difficult hiking to see it. Fortunately, your efforts will not go unrewarded as, in addition to Hengifoss, you’ll also see the 100-foot Litlanesfoss about halfway through your journey.

In other words, you’ll get to see two waterfalls for the effort of just one!

Bask In The Otherworldly Landscape of Studlagil Canyon

We often forget the world can change and shift, creating new, beautiful landscapes. Studlagil Canyon is one of those new creations.

In 2009, humans played a small role in the creation of Studlagil Canyon when the hydroelectric plant Karahnjukavirkjun was built.

This allowed the bright blue waters of the Jokla glacial river to lower, revealing the orange and gray basalt columns.

You do not want to miss one of the best things to do in East Iceland !

Best Things To Do in North Iceland

Soak in the power of dettifoss waterfall.

Dettifoss is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Iceland. As a matter of fact, it’s been given the title of the most powerful waterfall in all of Europe!

As you stand alongside this rush of water, you’ll feel dwarfed by its sheer massiveness – in the best way possible, of course.

There are two different viewpoints to see Dettifoss: The East and the West. While they are both lovely, I recommend choosing just one, because they are an hour apart.

Book Here: From Akureyri: Private Dettifoss Waterfall Jeep Tour

Take A Dip In The Myvatn Nature Baths

Often dubbed the Blue Lagoon of the North, the Myvatn Nature Baths are a perfect way to escape the cold Icelandic air.

The temperatures of the different pools hover between 97 degrees Fahrenheit and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect temperature for soaking.

This is one of the best things to do in Iceland for adults who want to relax.

Book Here: Mývatn: Myvatn Nature Baths Admission Ticket

Watch Whales Breach In Husavik

Husavik is known as the whale capital of Iceland as these marvelous creatures often like to settle here during the summer months.

I recommend taking a whale-watching tour to get a better view of the whales, but you can also spot them at certain places along the shoreline, including the Geosea Spa.

This is one of the best places in North Iceland for a soak!

Book Here: Húsavík: Whale Watching Tour with Guide

Take In The Beautiful Hvitserkur Rock Formation

Through the natural rise and fall of powerful waves, Iceland has become home to a myriad of fascinating rock formations, including the Hvitserkur Rock Formation.

With two arches carved through the base, many have decided the rock formation looks like an animal, although people haven’t been able to agree on which one.

Some say an elephant, some say a rhino, and some say a dragon. I guess you’ll just have to visit for yourself to decide!

Beam In the Beauty Of Godafoss, The Waterfall Of The Gods

Hands down, one of the best things to do in Iceland is visiting Godafoss.

The name of this stunning semi-circle of cascading water actually means “Waterfall of the Gods,” and this natural landmark certainly lives up to its name.

As if the waterfall wasn’t beautiful enough on its own, it settles into an eye-catching turquoise pool at the base. The two-mile loop trail is so worth it!

This epic waterfall is also one of the best things to do in Iceland in winter . It looks amazing surrounded by snow.

Book Here: From Akureyri: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall Day Trip

Head Off The Beaten Path To Aldeyjarfoss

Iceland has a lot of waterfalls and basalt columns. For another chance to see them together, visit Aldeyjarfoss.

Found on the Skjalfandafljot River, this 65-foot waterfall is one of the best places to visit in the highlands of Iceland.

From the parking lot, it is only a ten-minute walk to the viewpoint.

Best Things To Do In West Iceland

Veer off the ring road to the westfjords.

When most people visit Iceland, they stick to the Ring Road. Little do they know, they’re missing out on the Westfjords , which should definitely be added to everyone’s Iceland itinerary!

Hands down, the best thing to see in the Westfjords is the Dynjandi Waterfall. This waterfall flows down a set of natural lava rock steps, creating an almost lace-like quality to it.

But if you’re tired of Iceland’s waterfalls, you can also venture to the Dragnes Hot Pots, spot the puffins at the Latrabjarg Cliffs, or gape at the red sand of Raudasandur Beach.

Test Your Balance As You Head Off On The Natural Bridge At Arnarstapi

Located on the Snaefellnes Peninsula , the little town of Arnarstapi rarely gets the recognition it deserves. The village is adorable, the fish and chips is delicious, and the people are kind.

If there’s one stop you have to make in Arnarstapi though, it’s the natural archway known as Gatklettur. If rock formations really pique your interest, take your time exploring the nearby area, because it’s filled with them!

There is a natural stone bridge nearby perfect for a cool photo-op too!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

Photograph The Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellfoss Waterfall

The most photographed mountain in Iceland is Kirkjufell Mountain. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may know it as Arrowhead Mountain.

This soaring mountain is accompanied by the wonderful Kirkjufellfoss Waterfall, both of which look gorgeous no matter the time of year.

If you’re really up for an adventure, you can hike to the top with the help of a guide, but most people just choose to take pictures from afar.

Book Here: Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Day Trip

Check Out The Hraunfossar Waterfall And Barnafoss Waterfall

The Hraunfossar Waterfall and Barnafoss Waterfall are another pair of lovely Icelandic waterfalls.

Hraunfossar Waterfall cascades down a rugged obsidian terrain, creating an entrancing lacy effect with many small streams. The glacial water here is a gorgeous blue you will love.

Barnafoss Waterfall cascades powerfully through a rocky gorge, spaying light blue water.

Each waterfall is found on an easy boardwalk path. This is one of the best places in West Iceland !

Book Here: Reykjavik: Silver Circ le, Canyon B aths, and Waterfalls Tour

Tackle The Trail To The Glymur Waterfall

At a staggering 650 feet, Glymur Waterfall claims the title of Iceland’s second-tallest waterfall, making it one of the best things to do in Iceland.

But the trail to Glymur Waterfall is not easy. With sections steep enough to warrant using ropes and a few river crossings, the 4.5-mile hike to the Glymur Waterfall is not for the faint of heart.

Watch The Waters Boil At Deildartunguhver Hot Springs

While you can enter most of Iceland’s hot springs, you can’t enter Deildartunguhver Hot Springs – but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit.

With temperatures reaching nearly 400 degrees Fahrenheit, these hot springs are a tribute to the powerful geothermal activity reverberating throughout Iceland.

Best Things To Do In Reykjavik

Climb the tower of the hallgrimskirkja church.

One of the most popular things to do in Reykjavik is to visit the Hallgrimskirkja Church. This iconic building towers over all of the others in the city, making quite a statement.

It is free to enter the church. There is a small fee to climb the tower, but it offers stunning views of the city, so it’s worth it.

The church has a very modern design completely different than other churches in Iceland.

Make sure to check out our full Reykjavik itinerary !

Book Here: Reykjavik: Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Viking

Marvel At The Sun Voyager Sculpture

The dream-like Sun Voyager sculpture was created by the artist Joe Gunnar.

Made of stainless steel, this boat-shaped structure glistens in the sunlight and looks particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

Trek Up Mount Esja

Mount Esja is often called the “city mountain,” because it is located just 20 minutes outside of Reykjavik.

Once you reach the end of this five-mile hike, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city and beyond. It is one of the best hikes in Iceland !

This list just scratches the surface of the best things to do in Iceland. There are just so many amazing attractions in Iceland

We’re excited you’re considering what to see in Iceland and where to go in Iceland. Please let us know in the comments section if you have any questions or just want to share what you think are some of the top things to do in Iceland. 

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30+ Magnificent Places to Visit in Iceland (You Need on Your Bucket List!)

Last Updated: May 11, 2021

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Until you see it for yourself, it’s hard to believe a place like Iceland actually exists.

In fact, there are so many jawdropping places to visit in Iceland that some might say it’s Mother Nature’s ‘best hits’ album. 

Staggering waterfalls mixed with milky blue water, mindblowing national parks next to glittering ice caves… 

I could throw a million adjectives at you, but no word better describes Iceland’s beauty than extreme, with a surplus of sights that are equal parts stunning and… totally able to wipe you out in a split second.  

Save this list of places to visit in Iceland for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Iceland is certifiably badass, powerful, and photogenic… so in honour of this magnificent country (one of my favourites in the world!), I’ve rounded up some of the best Iceland places I saw during my epic Ring Road trip so you can plan your own dream vacation and see them all for yourself. 

PS: For your convenience, this list of places to visit in Iceland is organized in a counter-clockwise direction starting from Reykjavik, as I assume that’s where you’ll be starting your journey. I’ve also divided the must-sees into regions/areas so you can organize your itinerary more easily.

Of course, we’ll start with the obvious – Reykjavik, Iceland’s tiny fun-sized capital that is home to many impressive feats of architecture, and some of the quirkiest museums you’ll find in the world (like the Iceland Phallogical Museum ).

While most visitors flock to Iceland for the natural sights, a stop in Reykjavik is a must to savour a completely different side of the country… with plenty to offer visitors even if ogling animal dongs isn’t your typical idea of fun.

Some wonderful places to visit in Reykjavik include the Harpa and  Hallgrimskirkja Church.

The Harpa is Reykjavik’s main concert hall and conference centre.

Its glittering glass facade is filled with colourful geometric panels supposedly inspired by the distinctive basalt landscapes seen across the country. 

Definitely a must-visit when you’re exploring Reykjavik… and in need of an epic photo opp or two.

Another must see is the towering, Hallgrimskirkja Church, which is actually the largest church Iceland has to offer.

Similar to the Harpa, this church’s aesthetic was also inspired by Iceland’s unique landscapes, with an expressionist design that takes inspiration from Iceland’s famous mountains and glaciers. 

It took over four decades to properly complete this church, but today it’s a true sight to behold, with the best views in town found on top!

Be sure to grab tickets at the church’s shop for the ride up top. More info here.

The Reykjanes Peninsula

This piece of Iceland southwest of Reykjavik is one you might have never heard of, but it’s actually home to Keflavik Airport, and one of Iceland’s most beloved attractions: The Blue Lagoon!

The landscapes here are perhaps lesser known than some of the more Instagrammed sights across Iceland, but take some time to explore this region and you’ll find expansive lava fields topped in swathes of moss, bubbling hot springs and even a drift zone between continents.

Some must-visit sights in this area include the Blue Lagoon, which is of course one of the most famous attractions in the entire country.

This geothermal spa attracts millions of visitors a year thanks to its milky blue water (caused by silica), and while it’s one of the most crowded and more expensive experiences in Iceland, I still had a great time and would recommend it. 

I saved this attraction for last during my road trip, simply because it was the perfect treat after a week’s worth of grimy van living (with infrequent showers and many, sweaty layers of winter clothes).

The water is every bit as blue and spectacular as you see in all the photos, and there’s even a swim-up bar if “getting drunk in a milky blue pool of tourists” is on your bucket list.

Besides the Blue Lagoon, there are also several cool attractions in the Reykjanes Peninsula, like The Bridge Between Continents , a footbridge where you can walk over a fissure between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Yes, there’s even signs that tell you “Welcome to Europe” and “Welcome to America”.

Fun fact: this bridge used to be called the “Leif the Lucky” Bridge, after Leif Eriksson, an Icelandic explorer who many consider to have been the 1st European to visit North America 500 years before Christopher Columbus did.

The Golden Circle

If you’re looking for some of the most famous places to visit in Iceland, then the Golden Circle is where you need to head.

This scenic route encompasses three of Iceland’s top natural attractions: Gullfoss, Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir Geothermal Area, all linked in a 230km loop that can be done in a day from Reykjavik. 

This convenience is precisely what makes the Golden Circle THE most popular place in Iceland for tours and (of course) tourists.

Depending on your taste, this might make it a must-do thanks to the many tours that are offered, or a must-skip due to crowds.

My honest opinion? I think any traveller should visit the Golden Circle no matter what, but maybe plan a self-drive route and visit early in the day to avoid the tourists masses.

Some of the highlights of the Golden Circle include Gullfoss (“Golden Falls”), a thundering two-tiered waterfall that dramatically spouts out water from the Langjökull glacier to the tune of 109 cubic metres PER SECOND in the summer:

There’s also Þingvellir National Park, one of only three official national parks in Iceland.

The rugged and exaggerated landscape of Þingvellir is more than reason enough to stop by, but don’t lose sight of the park’s historical significance either! It was here that the Icelandic parliament assembled for centuries and centuries, starting from the year 930 AD.

And of course, there’s the Geysir Geothermal Area, a geothermal field spanning about 3km² filled with hot springs, boiling mud pits, and exploding geysers.

If watching scalding hot water gush over 70m into the air is your idea of fun, then this area is a must-visit. 

Fun fact: the English word “geyser” actually originates from the Great Geysir, which can be found here.

Of course, like anywhere in Iceland, it’s possible to find more offbeat places too along the Golden Circle.

Looking for a less touristy spa experience than the Blue Lagoon? Laugarvatn Fontana is awesome.

They have warm geothermal pools (though sadly, not milky blue!), a series of steam rooms and a gorgeous lakeside location that makes for a great relaxing break:

There’s also Kerið Crater, a 3000 year old lake in a volcanic crater known for its red rocks and bright azure colour.

It’s not part of all Golden Circle tours, but thanks to its proximity to the route’s other main sights, it’s often an extra add-on or easy stopover if you’re driving the route yourself.

Seljalandsfoss

I consider Seljalandsfoss to be one of the best places to visit in Iceland for SO many different reasons. 

Found near Iceland’s south coast, this striking 60m waterfall is one you can actually walk behind, with a clear path that takes you behind the falls for some unique, breathtaking (and misty) views. 

Get the timing right and you’ll also be able to capture the falls with a perfect rainbow in front of it. 

Last but not least, if you’re a recovering Belieber, you might also recognize this waterfall from the iconic “I’ll Show You” music video. 

Not far from Seljalandsfoss, you’ll find another wonderful waterfall worth visiting – Skogafoss . With a width of 25m and a height of 60m, this is not only one of the most photogenic waterfalls to visit in Iceland, it’s also one of the biggest.

And in case you think it looks familiar, that’s because Skogafoss is another Icelandic waterfall that has been somewhat immortalized in pop culture, thanks to appearances in many movies and TV shows, including Game of Thrones.

Vík & Reynisfjara Black Beach

Vík  is Iceland’s southernmost village, and is a must visit destination for many tourists thanks to its #1 attraction: Reynisfjara Black Beach.

This dark, emo beach is as alien as it gets, with pitch black volcanic ashes that create the ultimate moody atmosphere for your next album cover. 

Completing the look is of course a slew of Iceland’s signature basalt columns just off the shoreline. According to local legend, these rocks are actually mischevious trolls who were turned to stone.

One story posits that they were simply dumb trolls who stayed up until dawn while trying to pull ships from the ocean, whereas another claims that the trolls were frozen there as part of one man’s vengeance plan for the murder/kidnapping of his wife.

Whichever tale you choose, be sure to think of trolls when you’re posing by those big basalt columns!

NOTE: The ferocity of the waves at Reynisfjara Black Beach can’t be understated. “Sneaker” waves in this area are common, and have swept many unsuspecting visitors out into the water over the years.

Vatnajökull National Park

This gigantic national park in Eastern Iceland is one of only three national parks in the country, and because it covers so much scenic ground, it’s of course one of the top places you must visit in Iceland. 

Vatnajökull National Park is so big in fact that it actually encompasses 14% of Iceland’s territory , including two former national parks (Saftafell and Jökulsárgljúfur) within it, along with several iconic Iceland sights.

There is of course Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier found outside the arctic, whose glacial ice reaches almost 1km thickness at its thickest points, concealing numerous mountains and even active volcanos.

Today, visitors can tour this massive icy wonderland via jeep or snowmobile by booking a tour.

And while you won’t be able to see it (it’s subglacial and under an ice cap), you should know that this national park is also home to Grímsvötn, the most frequently active volcano in Iceland.

Another must-visit place in Iceland that’s part of Vatnajökull National Park is Jökulsárlón (whose name means ‘glacial river lagoon’).

This massive glacial lake in the southern portion of the park has been popularized by plenty of movies and TV shows (Amazing Race included) and remains one of the most popular places to visit in Iceland for visitors from around the world. 

Interestingly, Jökulsárlón is the deepest lake in the country, and one that continues to increase in size as years go on as nearby glaciers melt.

Unfortunately, the weather gods were hardly on my side when I visited (with fog obscuring most of the view), but it’s nonetheless one of the most impressive sights in Iceland, and one that I would recommend visiting.

Another nearby Iceland attraction to visit is Breiðamerkursandur , known more coloquially as Diamond Beach.

This jet black beach is where jagged icebergs float in from Jökulsárlón, creating a glittering display of diamond-like ice shards.

If it’s a uniquely Icelandic photo opportunity you’re looking for, this beach is a must-visit.

As previously mentioned, Vatnajökull National Park absorbed Skaftafell National Park back in 2008.

This area is where you’ll find Svartifoss, another must-visit waterfall in Iceland known for its unique aesthetic surrounded by towering lava columns:

You’ll also find Iceland’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss here, but it’s more in the Northeastern part of the country, so we’ll expand more on that later.

The Viking Village

Looking for a really offbeat and quirky place to visit in Iceland? What if I told you there was an abandoned viking village film set left over from a production that never actually happened?

Because that exists, and you’ll find it in Eastern Iceland, along with a “Viking Café” and adorable guesthouse. 

Long story short, this Viking Village set was built in 2010 for a film production that (after many years of funding issues) never actually happened.

Today, the set still stands for your eager exploration, and has in the meantime picked up a few roles in productions as well, finally fulfilling its original purpose.

Read more about the visit here.

The Eastfjords

Iceland’s Eastern coastline is definitely one of the best places to visit in Iceland if you’re looking for a more remote (and more crowdless) travel experience.

The Eastfjords of Iceland refer to the (approximately) 120 km stretch of the country’s Eastern coastline spanning from Borgarfjörður Eystri to Berufjörður.

Some interesting places to visit in this area are Seyðisfjarðarkirkja , a charming little town famous for its rainbow road church:

And Hengifoss, Iceland’s third highest waterfall known for its distinctive red and black pattern.

Unlike some of Iceland’s more popular waterfalls, this one does require an hour-ish hike, but it’s worth it for views like this:

And gorgeous sights along the way like the Litlanesfoss , a waterfall gloriously framed by some of those towering  basalt columns we’ve come to obsess over: 

Arctic Henge

And if you want to go to Northern Iceland (very very far North), then another interesting place to check out is Iceland’s Arctic Henge, where you’ll find a series of arches and statues inspired by Norse Mythology.

You’ll find it near the village of Raufarhöfn.

The Diamond Circle

Iceland seems to have a fondness for circles, from its famous circular Ring Road to its best-known tourist area: the Golden Circle.

Well, if you’re exploring Northern Iceland, it should come as no surprise that they have a Circle for you too – the Diamond Circle! 

This sightseeing route comprises of four main attractions: the famous lake of Mývatn, mega-waterfall Dettifoss, the epic canyon of Ásbyrgi and the adorable fishing town of Húsavik.

Lake Mývatn is one of the biggest lakes in Iceland, and the region surrounding it is known for its surplus of unique natural wonders, from striking landscapes and sizzling hot springs to an impressive roster of flora and fauna.

If you’re keen on taking a detour to Mars, the sulfuric mud springs of Námaskarð (near Lake Mývatn) are as close to Martian landscape as you can get here on Earth (except Lanzarote , maybe).

Does the sulphur make the whole area smell of boiled eggs? Absolutely, but it’s  a stench worth braving for landscapes like these: 

Another must-visit part of the Diamond Circle is Dettifoss, which is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe (and THE most powerful one in Iceland), with an average waterflow of 193 meters cubed per SECOND. 

Its muddy and dark greyish hues are thanks to a high density of sediments in the water, adding to the falls’ apocalyptic charm:

If you don’t mind a short walk while visiting Dettifoss, consider walking to Selfoss too.

It’s about 1km away, and offers some glorious views.

This is one of the few popular waterfalls in Iceland whose width (100m) far exceeds its height (11m), making it a nice stop for some variety.

Another stop along the Diamond Circle is Ásbyrgi, an impressive glacial canyon shaped like a horseshoe, with a dramatic aesthetic upheld by steep cliff faces and an expansive woodland stretching far into the distance.

While this canyon isn’t as famous as some of the other sights along the Diamond Circle, it’s a worthwhile off the beaten path place to visit in Iceland, with plenty of hiking trails to enjoy. Click here for some more ideas on things to do in the area.

The final stop of the Diamond Circle route is Husavik, a small fishing town recently popularized by Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga .

Besides being the namesake for one of my favourite songs of 2020 ( listen here ), it’s also the whale watching capital of the country, with various species of whales frequently spotted in the vicinity.

With a name like “Waterfall of the Gods” in a country so renowned for waterfalls, you shouldn’t be surprised that Goðafoss has made it onto my Places to Visit in Iceland list.

Found in Northern Iceland , Goðafoss is often considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, with a distinctive curved shape that stretches 30m wide:

Aldeyjarfoss

This is a waterfall I sadly haven’t been able to see for myself yet, but once I saw a photo, I knew it needed to be included in this list of Iceland’s top places. 

Found in North Iceland, this glorious waterfall has a dramatic drop of 20m, made all the more epic by its location surrounded by moody basalt columns: 

While Akureyri is the Capital of North Iceland, it often doesn’t get a ton of love on “must-see places in Iceland” lists because it is, at first glance, a fairly ordinary town. 

But while it doesn’t have a ton of attractions to offer within the “city” itself, there are still a few points of interest that make Akureyri a worthwhile place to visit fo a few hours, or as a base for your other Northern Iceland adventures.

Some nice spots to check out in Akureyri include the Laufas Turf Houses, the Akureyri Church and (nearby), the adorable Christmas House in Jólahúsið.

Tröllaskagi Peninsula

Another fairly offbeat place to visit in Iceland I’d recommend is the Tröllaskagi Peninsula.

We stayed overnight here during our van trip and it was honestly so raw and beautiful, I don’t understand why it’s not talked about more!

This peninsula in Northern Iceland is best known for its majestic Icelandic horses, so if you want to see some of those fluffy beauties in person, here would be a great place to do that.

You’ll also find some of the tallest mountains in the country here, along with other iconic Icelandic landscapes like waterfalls and rock formations

Vatnsnes Peninsula 

In Northwest Iceland, you’ll find another beautiful peninsula that’s a bit more off the beaten path for most visitors – the Vatnsnes Peninsula, best known for its abundance of seal colonies, and its many unique rock formations.

The most famous of these formations is the Hvítserkur, which stands at a tall 15m, and is often compared to a variety of animals, from elephants and rhinos to dinosaurs and dragons. 

Here’s a photo – what do you think?

Kolugljúfur Canyon

Another offbeat place in Iceland I’d highly recommend visiting is the majestic Kolugljúfur Canyon, a dramatic and ruggedly beautiful gorge where you’ll find the Kolufossar Falls (pictured below).

Of course, there’s no shortage of wonderful waterfalls to admire in Iceland, but these are truly a breathtaking sight to behold:

The Westfjords

Iceland’s Westfjords refer to the scenic piece of Northwestern Iceland that juts out like a little claw from the northwestermost point of the Ring Road.

Because it’s quite a lengthy detour from the typical Ring Road route, this is an area often missed by visitors, making it one of the quieter and more remote places in Iceland you can visit.

While for the most part, the Westfjords are only accessible in the summer, those who time their visit appropriately are treated to staggering landscapes with a fraction of the crowds seen elsewhere in Iceland’s tourist hotspots. 

What kind of sights can you experience in the Westfjords? Highlights include quirky museums dedicated to sea monsters and sorcery, Látrabjarg cliff, and Dynjandi, this epic waterfall right here:

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Of all the wonderful places to visit in Iceland, I think the Snæfellsnes Peninsula may have been my favourite.

This peninsula (located in Western Iceland) is often considered “Iceland in a nutshell” because it contains most of the incredible landscapes that make Iceland so special…

Imagine picturesque glaciers, endless lava fields, black beaches, jawdropping rock formations, cool wildlife and much, much more.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula spans about 90km, so there’s a lot of ground to cover, but it’s definitely worth a spot on your itinerary.

After all, some of the most gorgeous places to visit in Iceland can be found right here, with (relatively) fewer crowds than some of the hotter tourist hotspots in the South like the Golden Circle.

One of the most epic places to visit in this part of Iceland is the iconic Kirkjufell (best viewed from the Kirkjusfellfoss).

This perfectly pointy mountain is ripped right out of a child’s sketchbook.

I didn’t get the chance to climb it, but it supposedly takes less than two hours and offers an (understandably) epic view.

Hankering for an amazing photo spot? The little Kirkjufellsfoss offers plenty of opportunities for that perfect capture.

Another one of my favourite stops along here? Definitely the super cool Gatklettur (arch rock) , a natural stone arch found between Arnarstapi and Hellnar:

There’s also the dreamy and surreal Búðakirkja, a picturesque black church found along the peninsula’s south coast:

And the Djúpalónssandur Black Beach , which is dotted with bright yellow iron pieces from a ship wreck back in 1948:

Of course, while exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Saxholar Crater (found on the peninsula’s western tip) is a must-visit.

Its easy walking path allows you to scope out the crater up-close for spectacular views. 

A short drive away you’ll also find the Svörtuloft Lighthouse , which is a photogenic yellow gem with great coastal views and photo opps:

And lastly, there’s the Gerðuberg basalt cliffs, which are a stretch of hexagonal columns that run for about a kilometre on the southern half of the peninsula.

Hraunfossar

Also known as “Lava Falls”, Hraunfossar was one of my favourite waterfalls I saw during my trip.

You can find it in Western Iceland near Reykholt, with a gentler trickle than most of Iceland’s more powerful waterfalls, but with an electric blue colour that makes it still among the most beautiful.

Real talk though: can you  believe  the colour of this water? 

The Iceland Highlands

Dramatic landscapes are abundant in Iceland, but if you want to go really off the beaten path, then the Iceland Highlands (the 40,000km squared territory making up central Iceland) are a must visit. 

From bubbling mud pots and natural pools to volcanic craters and colourful mountains, the Highlands have plenty to offer those who are adventurous enough to seek them out.

For a detailed guide on visiting this part of Iceland, check out this excellent guide from Anywhere We Roam.

Westman Islands 

Last but not least, let’s finish off this list of great places to visit in Iceland with the Westman Islands, a set of islands found off the south coast of Iceland, often done as a day trip from Reykjavik. 

While only one of the islands (Heimaey) is inhabited, those willing to brave the the dramatic weather conditions are treated to a quieter, more remote slice of Iceland that feels a world away from the mainland.

From steep windy cliffs and scenic hikes to unique museums and puffin spotting, the Westman Islands has a ton to offer, which is why many consider to be one of Iceland’s best kept secrets.

Did I miss any of your favourite places to visit in Iceland?

Let me know in the comments! I can’t wait to go back.

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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.

More on Iceland

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

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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. 🙂

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21 Best Things to Do in Iceland

By Kerry Spencer

Last updated: May 30th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

The best things to do in Iceland, a cinematic island in the North Atlantic Ocean, range from hiking to cascading waterfalls to gazing at show-stopping scenery shaped by volcanoes and glaciers.

Lying a few miles south of the Arctic Circle, this small country, roughly the size of Kentucky, packs in some of the most dramatic landscapes in the world. Think ice caps, countless fjords, and extraordinary wildlife. Indeed, nature is a huge draw, with puffin colonies, migrating whales, and charismatic Arctic foxes to spot.

In the capital, Reykjavík, there’s an abundance of museums, shopping, and gastronomy, with some world-beating architecture to admire, too. Other cities, such as Akureyri and Ísafjörður in the north offer quaint museums, welcoming coffee shops, and fantastic whale watching. From hiking mountains carpeted in wildflowers to bathing in steaming geothermal pools, here are some of the best things to do in Iceland.

Marvel at Spectacular Waterfalls

There is no shortage of spectacular waterfalls in Iceland , including Gullfoss, a gasp-inducing waterfall that’s around 70 miles east of Reykjavík. Gullfoss, which translates as golden waterfall, lies in the Hvítá river canyon, with water flowing from the mighty Langjökull glacier, the second-largest glacier in Iceland.

The two-tiered waterfall drops 105 ft and lies on the country’s famous Golden Circle route, which also encompasses Haukadalur, a valley rich in geothermal activity, and Þingvellir National Park. It’s best to visit Gullfoss during summer, when it’s estimated around 459 cubic feet of foaming water pours down the canyon every second.

In the north of Iceland, a 30-minute drive east of Akureyri, Goðafoss is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland . The waterfall also lies on a glacier river, Skjalfandafljot, and surges 39 feet over a curved, 100-foot-wide precipice.

Enjoy the cool spray as you marvel at the white water tumbling over the ledge and the backdrop of green mountains before learning about folklore tales associated with Goðafoss.

Dynjandi Waterfall

In the wild and remote Westfjords, in northwest Iceland, Dynjandi is another of the country’s captivating waterfalls. Here, travelers can marvel at the gushing water drop 325 feet to form a chalk-white veil.

Dynjandi is an awe-inspiring waterfall, 98 feet wide at the top, spreading to almost 200 feet at the bottom. On the path to reach Dynjandi, you’re treated to seven smaller falls, each flowing into the next before reaching the Arnarfjordur, the second-largest fjord of the Westfjords.

Bathe in Soothing Geothermal Water

Mývatn Nature Baths

Iceland is well known for harnessing geothermal water to create soothing bathing spots nestled in nature. One such spot is Mývatn Nature Baths, 65 miles south of the Arctic Circle. This milky lagoon is heated through a deep fissure in the Earth’s surface.

There’s a swim-up bar with a selection of libations, a steam room that sees steam dramatically rise up through vents in the floor, and a café with indoor and outdoor seating.

One of the most famous geothermal bathing spots to experience Iceland’s nature is the Blue Lagoon, located on the fiery Reykjanes Peninsula. Lying among black rock formations, the Blue Lagoon is a 40-minute drive from Reykjavík and has been considered one of the best things to do in Iceland since opening in 1987.

Blue Lagoon

Lather mud onto your skin and relax in the silica and sulfur-rich water, which is heated to a sumptuous 100°F (38°C). There’s also a spa, where therapists use the Blue Lagoon’s own healing and nourishing products, a café, a restaurant, and a gift shop.

Another tranquil spot, a 45-minute drive north of Reykjavík , is Hvammsvík Hot Springs. Here, eight natural tidal pools cling to the oceanfront, with temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 107°F (42°C). Subject to weather conditions, paddleboards can be hired and steam baths and outdoor showers are available year round. Due to the natural rocky surface at Hvammsvík, bathers are advised to wear aqua shoes.

Admire Magnificent Icelandic Horses

Icelandic horses

Just a few miles south of Akureyri , Brunir Horse Farm is a family-run farm that hosts enthralling horse shows throughout summertime.

Icelandic horses are as symbolic of Iceland as volcanoes and hot springs. They’re typically small, unique for their five gaits (walk, trot, gallop, tölt, and flying pace) and are traditionally used for herding sheep, showing, and racing.

At Brunir Horse Farm you can learn how Icelandic horses, the only breed of horse in Iceland, were bred from ponies as early as the 9th century. Visitors can meet farmers Einar and Hugrún and their twin daughters, Guðbjörg and Þórhildur, and meet some of these majestic creatures

After taking in a horse show, browse the farm’s art exhibition, featuring artwork by Einar and other Icelandic artists. There’a a café, too, where visitors can savor warming coffee, homemade bread, soup, cakes, and pastries.

Wander Siglufjörður Village

Siglufjörður Village

Iceland’s most northern village is the postcard-worthy Siglufjörður. Once the country’s herring fishing capital, Siglufjörður is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lying on the Siglufjordur fjord on the remote Trollaskagi peninsula.

Herring Era Museum, Siglufjörður

Though small, there’s plenty here to captivate travelers, including the cleverly executed Herring Era Museum on Siglufjörður’s waterfront. As the name suggests, this three-building museum charts the region’s herring industry. The museum is housed in a former herring salting station and offers a window into the once thriving industry, which collapsed in 1969 due to a lack of herring stock.

Nearby, there’s a craft brewery, Segull 67, where thirsty travelers can take a tour before sampling the selection of excellent IPAs, lagers, and stouts. Siglufjörður also boasts a folklore center housed in a mustard-yellow building, an art gallery, and several cafés and restaurants.

Go Whitewater Rafting on the Hvita River

Hvita River

Adrenaline-seekers game for a white-water adventure can try rafting on the twists and turns of the Hvita river, which flows 25 miles from the enormous Langjokull glacier in Iceland’s highlands to Gullfoss waterfall.

Hvita widens to combine three rivers from the gorge at Gullfoss. Doubling in width, it’s perfect for white water rafting . Depart from Reykjavik on a short drive to the river where you will don a wetsuit, helmet, and life jacket and prepare to embark on one of the most thrilling things to do in Iceland.

Prepare to navigate sharp turns in the valley and steer around rocky outcrops that punctuate the frothing water. It’s not all raging rapids and rushing water, with moments of calm and tranquility encountered when you can safely admire canyons covered in green moss while gently floating along.

White water rafting is suited to adults and older children, such as those older than 11. Pack a towel and a spare set of clothes to change into after your river adventure.

Read: What to Pack for Iceland

See a Puffin Colony on Vigur Island

A speck of an island situated in Ísafjarðardjúp fjord in the secluded Westfjords, Vigur is a green and fertile island that’s a mecca for seabirds—eider ducks, a rare colony of black guillemots, razorbills, and Arctic terns—during summertime.

There’s also a seal colony on the south of the island and whales are often spotted in the frigid waters surrounding Vigur, making a trip here one of the best things to do in Iceland for nature lovers.

A highlight is spotting some of the orange-billed Atlantic puffins, especially if you spot them clutching a beak filled with sprats (small silvery fish). There are an eye-popping 100,000 taking to Vigur Island annually between May and August, making it one of the largest puffin colonies in Iceland.

Vigur Island

Join a guided walk around the island to see an array of squawking seabirds and watch the annual eiderdown harvest and processing take place between May and August. The island’s only residents are a family of three and their occasional seasonal help who collect the silky-soft eiderdown left behind by the eider ducks. The island’s precious gray harvest is then exported around the world.

Vigur also has a tiny post office, considered the smallest in Europe, where you can mail a postcard back home, and a delightful café serving warm slices of Hjónabandssæla, a traditional Icelandic rhubarb pie topped with crumbly oatmeal.

Gaze at Reykjavik from Hallgrímskirkja’s Observation Deck

Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik

One of the most famous buildings in Iceland is Hallgrimskirkja, a modern church that soars above the city in downtown Reykjavík. At 244 feet, it’s one of the tallest buildings in Iceland, with its architecture mimicking the appearance of cooling lava as it chrysalises into pillars of igneous rock.

Completed in 1846 following a 40-year build, this unique building has become a symbol of Reykjavík’s modernity, with the striking design the work of architect Guðjón Samúelsson.

Admire this eye-catching church from the square outside where there is a statue of Leifur Eiríksson, a Norse explorer who is considered the first European to arrive on continental America.

Step inside the church to see the 5,275-pipe organ that was installed in 1992 before taking the elevator to Hallgrimskirkja’s open-air observation deck. The views unfurl to the hazy horizon of Iceland’s mountains and ocean beyond the city.

Spot Cetaceans on the Edge of the Arctic Circle

Whale watching in Akureyri

One of the best places in the world to go whale watching is in Iceland, in the lively waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. Here, majestic cetaceans, including sperm whales and harbor porpoises, are plentiful, particularly during summertime, when they’re drawn to the mix of cold and warm sea currents, and waters rich with fish.

Minke whales and white-beaked dolphins are most commonly spotted around Iceland, including on whale-watching trips from Reykjavik. Orcas, or killer whales, can also be seen throughout the year, swimming closer to shore during summer in Iceland .

For some of the best whale watching in Iceland, however, join a summer tour from Akureyri in the north. Have your camera ready for peeking dorsal fins of minke whales, tail slapping humpbacks, and orcas leaping clean out of the water, putting on a wonderful display.

Enjoy a Bird’s Eye View from a Helicopter

Reykjanes Peninsula

A helicopter tour is one of the failsafe things to do in Iceland to really capture the magnitude of the country’s colossal natural sights.

Bucket-list flights depart from Reykjavik Domestic Airport, just outside of the city center. Passengers are whisked high above the city’s traditional tin roofs for a bird’s-eye view of the pointed Hallgrimskirkja church, before reaching the volcanic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

See bubbling Icelandic hot springs and fumaroles before gazing at the extraordinary Sundhnukagigar craters and sites of the Litli-Hrutur and Fagradalsfjall eruptions near the town of Grindavik before returning to the capital with stirring memories of Iceland.

Explore Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park

The UNESCO-listed Thingvellir, or Þingvellir in Icelandic, is not only an active volcanic area, but the site of the country’s first parliament. Iceland’s open-air assembly was established in 930 AD and remained here, by the river Öxará, roughly 27 miles east of Reykjavik, until 1798.

You could visit the site where lawmakers once met, with the remains of around 50 turf and stone-built booths, plus further 10th-century remains buried underground, within the park. Learn about the history of Iceland and this breathtaking national park at the visitor’s center near the pretty Þingvellir church.

Perhaps what lured Iceland’s lawmakers over one millennia ago was the sensational scenery. Thingvellir lies on the Mid-Atlantic rift, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. There are rugged mountains, rousing waterfalls, and the central Lake Þingvallavatn—the largest lake in Iceland—filled with brown trout and Arctic char.

Signposted hiking trails lead to a series of abandoned farms, including Hrauntún, Skógarkot, and Vatnskot. A popular walk is to Öxaráfoss waterfall via the Almannagjá gorge on the edge of the North American plate.

Silfra Fissure, Thingvellir National Park

Experienced divers could plunge into the lake’s sapphire-blue water at one of two underwater rifts, including Silfra, close to the park’s visitor center. The underwater visibility is extraordinary, making it one of the best diving spots in the world . However, travelers are required to hold a drysuit certificate or have done at least 10 registered drysuit dives in the last two years.

Divers are also required to obtain a permit from the park’s visitor center. It’s worth it, though, to see the meeting of the tectonic plates and spot the small, but resilient spined stickleback, a shimmering fish also found in the lake.

Visit a Deserted Village in the Westfjords

Adventurous travelers will relish the chance to visit a deserted village, Hesteyri, on the edge of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the Westfjords.

Hesteyri lies in one of the most remote parts of Iceland, where an abundance of flora and fauna thrives, including Arctic foxes, seals, tundra, and wildflowers, while humpbacks can often be seen on the boat ride across the fjord from Ísafjörður .

Join a local guide to learn about Hesteyri’s history. Eighty people once lived in this fishing and whaling village on the Jökulfirdir fjord, though it has been abandoned since 1952. This haunting landscape is marked by an abandoned whaling station, dotted with swan-white huts.

Stop for coffee and cake at the small building known as the Old Doctor’s House. You could also enjoy an exhilarating walk by following the headland trail to spot nesting birds and seals.

Read: Best Things to Do in Isafjordur

Savor Icelandic Cuisine in Reykjavik

Icelandic food

Thanks to a bounty of top-notch produce—think ultra-fresh seafood, free-grazing lamb, mountain herbs, and local cheeses—combined with some excellent cooking, Iceland is a top destination for foodies.

Savor some of the best Icelandic cuisine on a walking tour with a local guide to try traditional Skyr (a dairy product similar to yogurt), grass-fed lamb, mouthwatering seafood soup, and homemade ice cream. Finish a tour at the city’s beloved hotdog stand, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, by the harbor. Order the works, complete with fried onions, mustard, remoulade, and tomato ketchup.

RVK Brewing Company, Reykjavik

You could also sip on local libations at one of the city’s many craft breweries , with a rising number popping up in the capital, including Skúli Craft Bar. Several taps are available, including Úlfur (Indian Pale Ale), Ríó (Pilsner), and Garún (Imperial Stout). There’s also RVK Brewing Company, where the refreshing Barfluga lager is a must try, and Bryggjan Brugghús for a brewery tour and tasting.

Foodie travelers who prefer to sit down over a sophisticated meal are in luck, too, with a slew of stellar restaurants in the city including Brut, Dill, and Óx, where patrons are treated to sublime Icelandic dishes in a stylish setting.

Step into the Arctic Circle on Grímsey Island

Grímsey Island

Windswept Grímsey is one of the best places to visit in Iceland . This far-flung island, 25 miles off Iceland’s north coast, is home to just 100 people and roughly one million seabirds that are drawn here because of the fish-filled waters.

The island, lying directly on the Arctic Circle, features high sea cliffs and is typically blanketed in snow during winter and carpeted in luxuriant green during summer. The kaleidoscope of bird life includes Atlantic puffins between April and August, razorbill, black-legged kittiwake, black guillemot, northern fulmar, and thick-billed murre. Grímsey is also one of Iceland’s largest tern nesting sites, so be careful if you venture into these; the tiny and fearless Arctic terns will dive-bomb intruders to drive them away.

The island’s small village, Sandvík, is reachable by boat from the mainland, and features a wooden church, one restaurant, and a scattering of houses facing the harbor.

There’s also a charming green road train operating (June to August) the length of the island, from the orange lighthouse on the southern tip, through the village, toward the concrete orb-like Arctic Circle monument on the north side. The hop-on, hop-off road-train is a great way to spot some of Grímsey’s bird life.

If you’re a cold water swimmer, Grímsey is the perfect place to do it during summer. The water will be cold, but it’s deliciously clear. The best place to go for a refreshing dip is close to the harbor, on the west coast. Consider thermal swimwear and a robe to wrap up in when you emerge from the Arctic water.

Wander Among Dimmuborgir Lava Field

Dimmuborgir Lava Field

Dimmuborgir, which roughly translates as dark city, is a mystical and craggy landscape of lava fields, steeped in folklore to the east of Lake Mývatn in northern Iceland.

This sculptural landscape was created 2,300 years ago, the result of lava flowing from a massive eruption into a lake, which caused the lake’s water to boil. The rising steam led to some of the hardening lava to shatter, resulting in Dimmuborgir’s towering black stacks and imposing rock formations.

Walking among Dimmuborgir is one of the best things to do in Iceland, not just for geology buffs, but keen photographers, and fans of popular culture (the location has been used as a backdrop in a famous fantasy TV show), too.

Learn about tales of trolls who allegedly lived in Dimmuborgir’s lava caves, including the Yule Lads,  Iceland’s folkloric, mountain-dwelling Father Christmases (there are 13), as you follow one of the dedicated paths around the lava fields.

Tour Glaumbær Farm Museum

Glaumbær Farm Museum

A visit to Glaumbær Farm, owned by the National Museum of Iceland, near Akureyri is one of the most fascinating things to do in Iceland.

Glaumbær Farm is made up of 13 traditional turf houses constructed in the 1800s on the site of a settlement that can be traced back to 874. These white-painted houses are a piece of Iceland’s history, with the homes occupied until as recently as 1947.

Roam Glaumbær Farm to learn more about Iceland’s history of grass-roofed houses and take a peek inside to picture what home life was like here 200 years ago. While the turf houses appear like separate buildings from the outside, inside, they’re all connected and feature a communal living space called a baðstofa—a cozy space where families would gather to socialize, play games, knit, and tell stories.

Walk Among the Bubbling Haukadalur Valley

Strokkur Geyser

One of the most famous sights in Iceland is the gushing Strokkur Geyser in the Haukadalur valley, 66 miles east of Reykjavik. Visiting this magical spot is easily one of the best things to do in Iceland, with plumes of pressurized hot water shooting into the air, heated by bubbling magma below the earth’s surface.

Strokkur puts on a fabulous display, erupting through the porous rock roughly every five to 10 minutes. First, the surface around Strokkur heats to around 250°F before the steaming water erupts.

Wander among the designated areas within Haukadalur, with smaller geysers, fumaroles, hot springs, and mud-pits also bubbling away in this geothermal valley. Notice the color of the earth in places shimmers from yellow to green, and then red, displaying the sulfur, copper, and iron elements.

There’s an inviting café and restaurant for refreshments, and a lovely gift shop for picking up souvenirs to take home.

Shop for Souvenirs in Downtown Reykjavik

Souvenirs in Iceland

Not all things to do in Iceland involve exploring the country’s jaw-dropping landscape, as incredible as it is. Downtown Reykjavik , festooned with street art and concept stores, is a wonderful place to indulge in retail therapy.

This walkable city center is a treasure trove of arts and crafts, vintage fashion, and independent retailers of homeware and gourmet goods.

Focus a shopping trip on Skólavörðustígur, a one-mile pedestrian strip jam-packed with restaurants, bars, and shops, neighboring Laugavegur, and the interconnecting lanes.

Skólavörðustígur, Reykjavik

On Skólavörðustígur, Fotografi is the spot to pick up beautiful photography of Iceland. Orrifinn sells one-of-a-kind jewelry, and Inga Elín offers gorgeous hand-crafted ceramics.

Browse the Blue Lagoon’s outpost on Laugavegur, selling the geothermal spa’s luxury hair, body, and skincare products, and stop by As We Grow for silky-soft knitwear for men, women, and children. Spúútnik, also on Laugavegur, is a mecca for jaunty vintage pieces, and there’s Aftur for highbrow sustainable fashion, accessories, and perfumes,

There’s more, including art shops, active-wear stores, bookshops, and places to pick up Viking-themed souvenirs in this wonderfully vibrant district of the city.

Read: Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

Discover Majestic Lake Mývatn

Lake Mývatn

Mývatn is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world . Located in northern Iceland, it is surrounded by lava fields, pseudocraters, and lava pillars that were created following a basaltic lava eruption that occurred close by around 2,300 years ago.

The 14-square-mile lake is home to an array of dazzling wildlife, including fish and many migratory ducks that arrive from springtime and stay for the summer, including tufted duck, harlequin duck, Arctic tern, and mallard.

Sigurgeir’s Bird Museum, on the north side of the lake, is a great place to learn more about the bird life and geology of Lake Mývatn. The museum is known for its impressive bird specimens, including almost every type of Icelandic breeding bird on display.

There are hiking routes and viewing areas around the lake, plus plenty of points of interest, including Stóragjá, on the northeast corner of the lake, home to a series of ancient caverns containing unique rock formations, geothermally-heated pools, and hot springs.

Take a Road Trip to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Ytri Tunga Beach

Iceland’s Snaefellsnes peninsula makes for a breezy road trip, lying across Faxafloi bay from Reykjavik, a picturesque two-hour drive from the capital city .

This western arm of Iceland juts out into the Atlantic Ocean and is home to the magnificent scenery of Snaefellsjokull National Park. There is a glacier-capped volcano and rousing mountains, plus tiny villages and glorious beaches strung around the coastline.

Relax at the golden Ytri Tunga Beach as you look for lazing harbor and gray seals found lying on kelp-covered rocks. Continuing along the peninsula’s south shore, stop at Búðir. Surrounded by lava fields, here there is a solitary church behind another blond beach that makes for a superb photo opportunity.

Stykkisholmur

The 700,000-year-old Snæfellsjökull glacier looms in the distance, behind the village of Arnarstapi, while the largest town on the peninsula is Stykkisholmur, on the north shore. Facing the Westfjords, Stykkisholmur is roughly a two-and-a-half hour drive from Reykjavik, and as with anywhere in Iceland, getting there is half the fun.

The town is also close to the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum, a fascinating stop on a tour of Iceland, revealing why shark meat is traditionally fermented for six months before being consumed. If you have a strong stomach, you can even try this Icelandic delicacy on a visit but be warned that it’s an acquired taste; most Icelandic people today wouldn’t touch it.

Hike Ásbyrgi Canyon

Ásbyrgi Canyon

Iceland is home to many head-turning landscapes, including the horseshoe-shaped Asbyrgi canyon, with cliffs that rise up to 330 feet in parts, within Vatnajökull National Park in the country’s far north.

If you believe in Norse folklore, this deep groove covered in lush vegetation was formed by the hoof of Odin’s eight-legged horse (Odin was the bearded God of War and Death and the God of Poetry and Wisdom in Norse mythology). The more scientific explanation is that Asbyrgi formed as the result of two catastrophic floods from the Vatnajökull glacier, some 3,000 and 10,000 years ago.

Getting to Ásbyrgi Canyon involves an intrepid coastal journey from Akureyri, taking around two hours. When you arrive, hike to the 82-foot Eyjan, a hulking rock formation that rises from the center of the canyon, surrounded by low-lying forest. The trail runs for a couple of miles and is popular with hikers for the breathtaking views of the canyon’s lush landscape.

Embark on a Tour of Reykjavik Museums

National Museum of Iceland, Reykjavik

For culture-thirsty travelers, spending a day touring Reykjavík’s top museums is one of the best things to do in Iceland.

Start at the National Museum of Iceland, which covers 1,200 years of the country’s cultural landscape, including everything from Viking history to paganism and whaling, displayed over three floors.

The family-friendly Whales of Iceland is a natural history museum dedicated to cetaceans, with 23 whale species on display. There’s also the Maritime Museum in a former fish freezing plant by the harbor for enthralling tales of Iceland’s seafaring heritage, and the Saga Museum where you could try on Viking costumes.

Maritime Museum, Reykjavik Photo by Mosbatho on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 4.0

Experience the arresting Northern Lights year-round at Aurora Reykjavik, a museum dedicated to the aurora borealis. Learn all about the natural phenomenon, including the science behind why these luminous green and purple lights appear.

There’s an interactive exhibition, a 23-foot-wide movie theater showing the Northern Lights, a photography display, and a fun photo booth where you can capture a photo of yourself in front of one of the greatest shows on earth.

With glaciers, waterfalls, mountains, and volcanoes, not to mention a vibrant capital city, a vacation to Iceland is a soul-stirring experience. Explore Celebrity Cruises’ thrilling Iceland cruises to book your next intrepid getaway.

Kerry Spencer

Kerry Spencer has been writing about travel for 15 years. A former magazine editor and the UK editor of Cruise Critic, she lives in London, where she now writes for a number of print and online publications, including Imagine Cruising, Cruise Critic, and Selling Travel, among others.

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6 of the most beautiful places in the world, according to someone who's been to 107 countries

• I've been to 107 countries and am lucky to have seen some of the most stunning places in the world.
• Iceland and Slovenia are absolutely stunning.
• Cape Town and Paro also have incredible views, especially from above. 

When people find out how many countries I have visited, they always ask me which place is my favorite .

I find that hard to answer because it's like choosing your favorite child, and my "favorite" varies according to different criteria.

One way to rank a place is based on its natural beauty and landscape. Across my travels, I've found these six places to be the most beautiful.

And, according to data from the Global Tourism Organization, none of these places are or are in the most visited countries this year — so you might avoid some crowds by checking them out this summer.

If I had to name one city that stands out, it would be Cape Town in South Africa.

Anyone visiting Cape Town would be impressed by its natural beauty. Its landscape features forests, beaches, mountains, and the majestic Table Mountain that looms over the city and bay.

You can reach the top of Table Mountain by hiking or taking the far less strenuous cable car. Despite being fit, I chose the latter option, which allowed me to spend more time at the top.

The views overlooking the ocean are an Instagrammer's dream. For those who prefer to get a bird' s-eye view of Table Mountain, climbing the nearby Lions Head Mountain is also possible, though there is no cable-car option.

Slovenia is often overlooked by visitors to Europe.

It's a shame more folks don't visit Slovenia, as it borders Italy and can be added to any Italian itinerary .

Although the postcard-perfect capital of Ljubljana is beautiful, a trip to Lake Bled shouldn't be missed. Set in the Julian Alps — only about 30 miles from the capital — the lake is the prettiest I have seen.

Standing on the north shore of the lake is the medieval Bled Castle, which makes the perfect backdrop for the lake. Photographers can utilize the lake's reflection to create an artistic masterpiece.

There's nothing like arriving in Paro, the capital of Bhutan.

There is no more spectacular arrival to a country than that into Paro.

Paro's airport has one of the toughest runways in the world. It's in a valley surrounded by 18,000 mountains. Because it's a complicated place to land, fewer than 30 pilots worldwide can land there .

A few minutes before I landed there, the pilot asked us to look out the window and said we were passing Mount Everest. This allowed me to tick off a bucket-list item without climbing to the peak!

Devoid of busloads of tourists, Bhutan has a peaceful serenity that makes it even more beautiful. Although I didn't climb Everest, I did a five-hour hike to see the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery.

Also known as Paro Taktsang, this temple complex was built in the late 17th century and hangs on the edge of a cliff over 10,000 feet above sea level.

My demanding hike started in Paro Valley and took me past serene temples adorned by colorful prayer flags — and my beautiful final destination made the journey well worth it.

If you like water, then you must visit Iceland.

Iceland has waterfalls, thermal lagoons, glaciers, and geysers.

I was fortunate to visit Iceland during summer when the sun never seemed to set, and I even wore sunglasses at midnight. The extra-long days allowed plenty of time to travel this small country and marvel at its natural attractions.

I broke records for the number of photos I posted on social media- earning lots of comments from jealous friends, but none can do the place justice.

Watching nature's fury shoot water hundreds of feet up (geysers) or hundreds of feet down (waterfalls) was mesmerizing and a reminder of our precious earth.

After a long day of exploring, there's nothing better place than a warm thermal bath in the famous Blue Lagoon .

El Salvador pleasantly surprised me with its beauty.

El Salvador is small, but it has a lot to see, from volcanoes to beaches to ancient Mayan ruins.

I loved peacefully starting my days there by sipping fresh Salvadoran coffee while watching the sunrise over volcanoes. I also did a couple of volcano hikes, including the amazing Santa Ana, which offered majestic views over a bright-green crater lake.

I was fortunate to spend a night overlooking Lake Coatepeque, which can change from deep blue to glowing turquoise.

As an Australian, it would be remiss not to include my home country.

Australia has no shortage of natural attractions, from coral reefs to rainforests to the culturally important Uluru Rock.

My favorite, however, is the Great Ocean Road along the Victorian coastline. It is an easy day trip from my hometown of Melbourne, and although I have driven this road many times, I have never tired of it.

The drive is one of the most stunning in the world, as the road clings to the coastline, offering panoramic views. Its highlight is the Twelve Apostles, a natural rock formation caused by thousands of years of erosion.

• Main content

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach Travel Guide

Reynisfjara is a world-famous black-sand beach found on the South Coast of Iceland, just beside Vik í Myrdal, which is the southernmost village on the mainland of Iceland.

Visits to it are included on many South Coast Tours  and almost all Road Trips in Iceland will also take you there. 

Getting to Reynisfjara

With its enormous basalt stacks, roaring Atlantic waves, and stunning panoramas, Reynisfjara is widely considered to be the most beautiful example of Iceland’s black sand beaches. In 1991, National Geographic voted Reynisfjara as one of the Top 10 non-tropical beaches to visit on the planet.

Driving to the beach is particularly easy, taking approximately two and a half hours from the capital on Route 1 , so it can easily be done within half a day, or a full day combined with other features. If you prefer to drive there yourself without joining tours be sure to go here to browse the largest selection of rental cars and find the cheapest car rental prices in Iceland .

Upon visiting the beach, travelers will immediately observe rocky sea stacks sitting off the shoreline, known as Reynisdrangar .

Another legend tells of a husband whose wife was kidnapped and killed by two trolls. The man followed the trolls down to Reynisfjara where he froze them, ensuring that they would never kill again.

The sea stacks themselves are home to thousands of nesting seabirds. Species that can be found nesting on the cliffs include puffins, fulmars, and guillemots, making it a must-see location for birdwatchers.

Surrounding Sites

Reynisfjara beach is located conveniently in the middle of the South Coast, adjacent to the charming village of Vik . This means that those taking the Ring Road around the country, or else those heading to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon , will pass it, and are encouraged to make a stop.

En route to Reynisfjara from Reykjavik, you will discover waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss , and glaciers, such as Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull . Further along the South Coast, you will reach the Vatnajokull National Park , with its many glacier tongues, glacier lagoons, black sand deserts, and the incredible Skaftafell Nature Reserve .

Potential Dangers

Visitors to Reynisfjara must be made well aware of the potential dangers present at the beach. First of all, the roaring waves of Reynisfjara are particularly dangerous, often pushing further up the beach than many would expect.

These are called sneaker waves, and they can appear when least expected, even on incredibly still days. There are no significant landmasses in between Antarctica and the shores of Reynisfjara, meaning waves have thousands of kilometers to build.

Visitors are advised to never turn their back on the waves, and keep a safe distance of at least 30 meters (100 feet).

Aside from these sudden and dramatic shifts in the tide, the rip currents offshore are infamous for their strength and ability to drag helpless people out into the freezing cold open ocean. Fatal accidents do occur at Reynisfjara, the last of which occurred in November 2022.

But if you remain at a safe distance then be sure that a visit to Reynisfjara beach will be one of the highlights of your visit to Iceland.

Popular Tours to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

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The 8 most beautiful places in the world

Posted: January 30, 2024 | Last updated: March 9, 2024

The most beautiful places on Earth

Despite ills such as pollution, climate change, ecological disasters and the destruction of many wild places, Earth is a beautiful place. From waterfalls and islands to forests and mountains, our planet boasts myriad natural wonders that can amaze even the most jaded observer. But it also boasts equally dazzling human-made wonders, like picturesque cities and unique architecture.

Our list of the 10 most beautiful places in the world is subjective, but we think it is eclectic enough to capture the diverse beauty of our planet. If you were to point a camera at any of the places listed here, you'd get a breathtaking image.

ISLE OF SKYE, SCOTLAND

The Isle of Skye has a long history of appearances in songs, stories, novels and poetry. Novelist and poet Walter Scott used the picturesque location as the setting of his epic poem "The Lord of the Isles," and Sir Harold Boulton's romantic ballad "The Skye Boat Song" tells the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie's flight from the Scottish mainland to Skye after his defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. It is unclear where the name Skye comes from, but some sources, such as the Gazetteer of Scotland, claim it comes from the old Norse word "sky-a," meaning "cloud island," likely in reference to the fog that often enshrouds the island. 

Skye is the largest and northernmost of Scotland's Inner Hebrides, a group of islands located on the country's west coast. The island is roughly 50 miles (80 km) wide from east to west and is made up of a hodgepodge of moors, blue lochs, windswept coastline, fields of heather, stark medieval castles and craggy mountains. Its climate is wet, windy, cool and frequently overcast. But when the sun breaks out, the island is aglow with rainbows, sparkling lochs and some of the most beautiful coastal vistas in the British Isles. "In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes top prize," according to the Lonely Planet travel guide. 

North of Portree, the island's main town, is a cluster of pinnacle-like rocks known as the Old Man of Storr. Farther north is Kilt Rock, a sheer coastal cliff of sedimentary and igneous rock that draws a constant stream of sightseers, many having come to see Mealt Falls, a cascade that drops 164 feet (50 m) straight down to the water. Near the top of the list of jaw-dropping attractions, however, is Spar Cave, a cathedral-like sea grotto filled with calcium carbonate formations. It was a major tourist attraction during Victorian times and continues to draw adventurous hikers. All of these can be viewed at the official Isle of Skye tourist site. 

HUASHAN, CHINA

"Shan" is Mandarin for "mountain," and  hua  means "splendid" or "magnificent." Huashan, a towering mountain located near the city of Huayin in China's Shaanxi province, about 74 miles (120 km) east of Xi'an, lives up to its moniker. 

It consists of five separate peaks, the tallest of which, South Peak, rises to 7,070 feet (2,155 m). The mountain is composed primarily of Mesozoic-era granite upthrust as the result of geologic faulting over millions of years, according to UNESCO. This created the sheer rock faces that characterize the mountain and plunge precipitously to the valley below. The surrounding flora is rich and varied. Mosses, lichens and shrubs characterize the understory, while several species of pine clinging precariously to steep rock faces and sheer cliffs form the overstory. 

Taoists, who are practitioners of the ancient Chinese religion of Taoism, have cherished Huashan for centuries, and it is considered one of China's most sacred mountains. Several Taoist temples dot the mountain's slopes and peaks. The earliest temple, the Shrine of the Western Peak, dates back to the second century B.C.

The mountain is also a major tourist destination. Many people from around the world venture to climb the South Peak, an ascent to the top of the mountain that some have dubbed the "most dangerous hike in the world." The initial ascent is easy enough; it begins relatively flat but gradually transitions to stone steps, which then give way to a wooden plank that hugs the mountainside with a series of chains for handholds. The dangerous trail is only about 1 foot (0.3 m) wide and is known as the "plank walk in the sky." 

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague is known as the "City of a Hundred Spires," a name that references its famous castles, cathedrals, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and medieval squares and bridges. It is home to 1.3 million people. 

The area around Prague is a region known as Bohemia, which has been settled for many millennia, first by Paleolithic peoples and much later by the Celts. But Prague did not acquire the rudiments of a city until the ninth century A.D., according to Encyclopedia Britannica. During the medieval period, the city grew in size, scope and renown, becoming a major city of political and cultural influence in the 14th century. In 1348, the Holy Roman emperor Charles IV founded Charles University in Prague, the first such center of learning in central Europe. And during the latter Middle Ages and into the Renaissance, Prague played a major role during the Reformation, a period of intense religious ferment that gave rise to Protestantism. Under the influence of Catholic Church critics like Jan Hus, Prague became a hotbed of opposition to Roman Catholicism. 

The Vltava River runs north to south as it meanders through the city, passing such famous landmarks as the Prague Astronomical Clock, the Vysehrad Museum and the famous Charles Bridge, a medieval stone bridge that links Prague's Old and New Towns and is famous for its Baroque statuary of prominent saints. 

Perhaps the most picturesque of Prague's buildings, however, is Prague Castle, which sits atop a hill and dominates the city's skyline. It was built in the ninth century and was expanded upon over subsequent centuries. Today, it is the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic. 

In 1992, Prague's historic city center was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List.

JÖKULSÁRLÓN, ICELAND

The first thing you notice about Iceland's largest glacial lagoon is the dazzling blueness of the water. It has a crystalline quality that is mesmerizing and otherworldly. Brilliant white icebergs, broken off of the nearby glacier, float about, resembling clouds drifting in the sky. 

Jökulsárlón, translated as "glacial river lagoon," is Iceland's deepest lake, plunging 813 feet (248 m) below the surface, according to Earth Observatory, a NASA-affiliated site. It covers a surface area of 7 square miles (18 square km) and borders the coast, so at high tide, Atlantic Ocean water spills into the lagoon. Jökulsárlón is part of Vatnajökull National Park, located near the town of Hofn in the southeast part of the country. The park derives its name from Vatnajökull glacier, which is Iceland's largest ice cap and the second-largest ice cap in Europe, after the Severny Island ice cap in Novaya Zemlya, Russia. 

Jökulsárlón formed fairly recently, between 1934 and 1935, when meltwater from Vatnajökull glacier rushed into the lagoon, forming a lake. It has been expanding ever since. Today, the expansion of Jökulsárlón is accelerating as a result of climate change. 

The lagoon is a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over Europe, Asia and the United States. They come to see the icebergs, the wildlife and the amazing vistas, especially Vatnajökull glacier, which rises to 3,000 feet (910 m) and provides a dramatic backdrop to the striking blue lagoon. A plethora of seabirds — including terns, skuas, gulls and puffins — call the area home, and seals are frequent visitors to the lagoon. 

Jökulsárlón and the surrounding area became part of Vatnajökull National Park in 2008. The Park is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

GREAT OCEAN ROAD, AUSTRALIA

Flanked on the south by the tempestuous Southern Ocean, the Great Ocean Road is Australia's most scenic highway. It passes by some of the country's most amazing vistas and natural landmarks, and is on Australia's National Heritage list, a list of places deemed to be of outstanding historical, natural and cultural significance to Australia. 

The Great Ocean Road runs along the southeast coast, from Torquay in the east to Allansford in the west. It covers a length of 151 miles (243 km) and parallels the southern edge of the continent for most of the way, though it occasionally deviates to cut inland and zigzag around a landform or natural formation. The entire route takes about 9.5 hours, and tourists typically spend three days doing the drive. 

The road winds through coastal scenery for most of its length, running along cliff tops, skirting beaches and coves, and passing through rainforests and by waterfalls. Highlights include the Otway rainforest canopy, which takes visitors high up through the canopy of a myrtle beech ( Nothofagus cunninghamii ) forest, and the Grotto, a stretch of limestone coast that has been eroded into fantastical shapes and formations. Perhaps the most spectacular attraction, however, is a series of limestone sea stacks called the Twelve Apostles. These rock formations were part of the mainland 20 million years ago but have eroded over time and now form pinnacles just offshore. 

The idea of creating the Great Ocean Road grew out of a desire to commemorate the Australian soldiers who died during World War I, according to SBS News, an Australian news site. Construction of the road began in 1918, after a survey crew laid out the route the previous year. Many members of the construction crew were servicemen who had returned from the war and needed jobs. The road was constructed piecemeal, and it was completed in 1932.

In 1881, the famous British general Charles "Chinese" Gordon thought he had stumbled across the biblical Garden of Eden — literally. He claimed it was on an island in the middle of the Indian Ocean, now known as Praslin in the Republic of Seychelles. 

Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands nearly 1,000 miles off Africa's east coast. The islands are the epitome of postcard perfect: Stately palm trees sway above pristine white beaches and brilliant turquoise water. 

Most of the islands are granite, according to One Earth Philanthropy, a non-profit environmental group, although several islands are also coral atolls. The Aldabra Group of islands includes Aldabra Island, which is the world's second-largest raised coral atoll and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the endemic Aldabra giant tortoise ( Aldabrachelys gigantea ), which, like the Galapagos giant tortoise, is an example of island gigantism, an evolutionary process whereby certain island-dwelling animals grow to very large sizes. 

Seychelles is a major tourist destination with numerous nature preserves and marine parks. 

ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

A cold, windswept island chain in the north Pacific Ocean is hardly the first location that springs to mind when contemplating the world's most beautiful places. But the Aleutian Islands, located between 51° and 55° N latitude, is a special place that defies all expectations and assumptions. Though beset by fierce winds, thick fog and heavy rainfall, the islands have mystical charm. A haven for seabirds and marine life, the islands are a wonderland of rugged volcanoes and snowcapped peaks surrounded by a vast expanse of deep blue ocean. 

The Aleutians form the northern extension of the Pacific Ring of Fire, extending in an arc westward from the Alaskan Peninsula for 1,200 miles (1,900 km) to the Russian Kamchatka Peninsula. The Aleutians consist of more than 70 islands, including 14 large volcanic islands, 55 smaller islands and several islets. They are located where the Pacific Plate sinks below the North American Plate, creating an active subduction zone. Here, the molten lava bubbles up to the surface, and several of the islands contain active volcanoes. A group of scientists recently proposed that the Aleutian Islands are the interconnected vents of a much more massive underwater caldera, Live Science previously reported. 

Unalaska is the best-known island in the chain and the only one with a permanent population. Attu Island, the westernmost of the Aleutian Islands, is a premier destination for bird-watchers, containing countless resident and migrant seabirds and numerous nesting sites and colonies. Attu Island is also famous for its role in World War II: In May 1943, American and Japanese forces clashed in a bloody month-long battle that culminated in an Allied victory and the withdrawal of Japanese forces from the island chain. 

MACHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu is an ancient city that sits high up in the mountains, surrounded by gauzy wisps of cloud. The extreme altitude and surrounding backdrop of the vegetation-clad slopes of the Andean foothills lend the air an ethereal quality.

Machu Picchu is located in the Andes mountains of southern Peru, in the craggy heights above the Urubamba Valley, also called the Sacred Valley. Archaeologists think Machu Picchu was constructed in the mid-1400s under the direction of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, the ninth ruler of the Inca. The city was built as a citadel for Inca royalty and was occupied for nearly a century until it was abandoned around the time of the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. It contains numerous palaces, residences and stone temples, including the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Three Windows, and is surrounded by expertly made stone walls. The nearest modern city, Cuzco, is 50 miles (80 km) to the southeast.

After its abandonment, the citadel fell into disuse, and as thick vegetation closed in around the site over the centuries, it was reclaimed by the jungle. Although it was well known by the local populace, American explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention in 1911, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.

Today, Machu Picchu is not only one of the most important archaeological sites in South America but also a major tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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