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18 Best Places To See in North Iceland

June 28, 2020 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

North Iceland has no shortage of stunning and breathtaking landscapes to take in! If you are driving the whole Ring Road In Iceland , you are in for a real treat.

The scenery is vast and ever-changing. From craters of bright blue water to powerfully thundering waterfalls to towns that revert you to the beginnings of civilization.

North Iceland has endless adventure and is steeped in rich cultural history that permeates in almost every structure and attraction you will visit!

Some of the attractions may be far apart, or a relatively long hike, but if you are interested in seeing some unforgettable landscapes, or the panoramic view from the Island of Birds it is worth adding to your Iceland Itinerary! Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

Detifoss and Selfoss

Detifoss and Selfoss are two stunningly impressive waterfalls in North Iceland. Fed by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River, these waterfalls are two you do not want to skip on your next trip. They are located in one of the more remote National Parks in Iceland!

The power and majesty of Detifoss is unmatched. The thundering of this magnificent natural force will captivate you. It is said to be the most powerful waterfall in iceland and you will undertamd why once you are standing near its raging waters.

Selfoss is just s short half mile walk from Detifoss. When it comes to power, there is no comparison between the two, however, Selfoss is a beatufil majestic waterfall that deserves to been seen.

It’s peaceful to see the horse shoe shaped waterfall plunge from both sides into the canyon.

When visiting Detifoss you will find that there are two parking lots to choose from, East and West. Each has its on distinct view of the waterfall.

With Detifoss being such a large and powerful waterfall, it makes sense that the parking lots are relatively far from each other. They are about an hour apart, so sticking to one before you start out will save a lot of time.

Rim of Viti Crater

Viti Crater is one of those stops in North Iceland that don’t seem real. This is the site of an ancient crater that is filled with brilliantly blue water that is in beautiful contrast of the landscape around it.

This crater was formed by the volcanic eruption of Krafla.

The best views of Viti Crater are by walking the rim of the crater. This is a nice light walk that will take about 20 minutes to make it around the whole crater. Keep and eye out though, because there is often construction on the path to fortify the walkway. When the walkways are partially closed there is still a good chance of seeing the great views this crater has to offer.

When visiting this site, you’ll see that there are some smaller lakes near by. Some of the small lakes are geothermal and you can even see some lava fields nearby as well!

Be sure to add Viti Crater and its astounding surroundings to your next itinerary.

Myvatn Nature Baths

Essentially, the Myvatn Nature baths are the Blue Lagoon of the North. These geothermal springs make for the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of Iceland all year round. It is truly one of the best things to do in Iceland!

These springs sit around 36ºC to 40º C making the steamy warmth of the water perfect for gazing out at the northern lights if you are there at the right time.

While the Myvatn Nature Baths are not as pricey as the blue lagoon, they are becoming more of a tourists attraction and are not inexpensive. The views and the esthetic are worth it, though. It’s also a bonus that there are steam rooms on the premisis.

One thing to keep in mind is the water does attribute some of its warmth to sulfer so be wary of bringin jewlery in the water with you.

The cold Iceland days can definetly take a toll during your visit. So why not warm up and catch some beauitful views at the blue lagoon of the North?

 Grjotagja Cave

Underground cave filled with a beautiful pool of water? Count me in! Grjotahja Cave is a specitcal to see and it can be a nice short stop on your journey around Iceland!

As you enter the cave through the narrow passageway and see the underground lake canopied by stunning rock formations, you may be tempted to stick your hand in the water. Please don’t.

While the water used to be safe to swin in, due to volcanic activity the temperature has a tendency to fluctuate so it’s been deemed unsafe.

If you just want to visit this cave for the sole reason that it was used in Game of Thrones Season 3, we don’t blame you. But you also won’t be disappointed in the natural beauty this underground cave has to offer.

Godafoss Waterfall

Godafoss Waterfall is another stunning waterfall the merges beauty and power effortlessly. It is one of the best waterfalls in Iceland and the most popular in the north.

This waterfall is a near perfect half circle that is split down the center by a rock formation. This formation has a smaller thinner waterfall that runs down its rockface creating a truly amazing view.

It is truly amazing to witness natures beauty at Godafoss waterfall. You are able to decend to the bottom and stand near the green-blue pool of water that forms beneath the falls.

If you don’t want to venture to the bottom of the falls, staying up top offers great views and gift shop at the East entrance. Pick a nice dry spot on the edge and spend time soaking up some North Iceland beauty at Godafoss

Aldeyjarfoss

When it comes to strake and memorable imagery, Aldeyjarfoss does not disappoint.

Iceland is known for is basalt rock faces and waterfalls, and Aldeyjarfoss is one of the many ways to see these natural wonders. What makes this waterfall unique is that it looks like the falls have burst through the walls making for an unforgettable sight.

It is not one of the tallest waterfalls, measuring in at just about 65 meters, but it’s power and majesty are captivating.

Unfortunately, none of the pools surrounding Aldeyjarfoss are not geothermal. The waterfall’s roots come from the Vatnajokull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe.

These falls are accessible all year round, but they are easier to access during the summer months.

In Summer you can drive right up to the falls. In winter, however, the parking lot is farther away making it about a 40 minute walk to the falls. It is still very much worth it if you don’t mind a nice brisk walk to a scenic waterfall.

Husavik a charming town in north Iceland that has plenty of attractions in the surrounding areas!

This small town is the whale watching capital of Europe! Even from shore you are more likely to see a whale than anywhere else in the world! There are many amazing Whale Watching Tours you can take to see them up close.

The bay that Husavik sits on is flush with minerals that wash in naturally from the melting ice caps. The whales are provided a flourishing ecosystem in which they thrive!

Take a tour with any of the many whale watching tours in Husavik and get a glimpse of some of nature’s most mesmerizing creatures. Some whale watching companies will even take you to Bird Island where you can hike, and see the adorable Puffins in their natural habitat.

Once back on shore there are plenty of attractions nearby this northern Iceland gem! In town you will find a few muesums including history, exploration, and a spectacular whale museum!

Venturing outside of town you will also find horseback riding and geothermal pools that will have you totally relaxed!

As we mentioned, Husavik has some of the best geothermal pools. Geosea Spa is the perfect way to wind down after a long day on the water.

Geosea spa is a geothermal infinity pool looking over the ocean. With this being such a beautiful spot, the number of visitors continues to increase. It is definitely worth it to make a reservation, then spend however much time you like in the warm, mineral waters at Geosea Spa.

This infinity pool overlooks the same waters where whale watching takes place. So there’s a possibility you may see some whales while you warm up on shore!

Considered to be the capitol of the North, Akureyri is the biggest city outside of Reykjavik. This town is filled with attractions for the whole family and is filled with history.

One of the main attractions of this town is Akureyrarkirkja Church. It is a beautiful structure that has a sprawling staircase leading to the entrance which is great for photos!

One of the most fun and interesting stops to take is the year-round Christmas house! There’s just something about Iceland that makes the idea of Christmas more magical, and this house delivers 365 days a year!

If you’re visiting in the summer, drop by the intricate Botanical Garden that offers views of the beautiful foliage. Another great summer itinerary place holder can be the city swimming pools, or stopping by an ice cream shop; which we don’t discourage from any time of year.

This is also a great place to stock up on goodies and gas before you hit the roads again! If you are interested, check out our list of the Best Hotels And Hostels In Akureyri!

The Infinity Pool In The Town Of Hofsos

There is no shortage of heated swimming pools in Northern Iceland. You can take your pick of locations where you can take a relaxing heated swim.

The infinity pool in Hofsos is one of the prettiest and most scenic infinity pools. Hofsos is a small fishing town which is definitely not bustling. However, the infinity pool looking over the bay gives a great reason to stop by for a bit.

The heated pool is accompanied by a warmer hot tub and has a small museum of emigration nearby!

While basking in the pool, you look over the water and have an impressive view of the island of Drangey. The pool blends effortlessly with the body of water below, making for a great way to take in the beauty of Iceland for a couple of hours.

The astonishing rock formation at Hvitserkur is a must see in North Iceland.

The formation appears on the beach and rises from beneath the water, towering above everything in the vicinity.

This stunning formation resembles many creatures Common identifications are an elephant, a rhino, and even a dragon. Local legend says it is actually a troll that was turned to stone as first light rose. However you interpret it, this almost 50 ft formation is beyond impressive.

During low tide, you can walk right up to and feel absolutely dwarfed by this mammoth monolith!

Over time the tide has eroded the rock. It has to be reinforced at the base, but that has just preserved this magnificent structure for years to come.

Asbyrgi Canyon

Vatnajokull National Park is full of beautiful sprawling landscapes and Asbyrgi Canyon is one that should be on the list to be explored.

This horseshoe-shaped canyon was believed, by Vikings, to have been formed by a Sleipnir which is a mythical flying horse. It’s easy to see how this myth came about because the shape and size of this canyon are truly magical.

Take a hike through the canyon and you’ll find Eyjan, a phenomenal rock formation that splits the canyon in two. It runs for about half the canyon’s length. Beyond Eyjan, you will be surrounded by the 100-meter canyon walls. At the end of the trail, you’ll find yourself face to face with a peaceful pond nestled in the birch forest.

If you are looking for a great spot to settle down and camp for the night Asbyrgi has a campsite right near the entrance! Feel free to get cozy near these magical cliffs in North Iceland

The ancient town of Laufas looks like something out of a fairytale.

The old turf homes seem to rise from the ground in the ancient farming village. These homes from another time were built with turf roofs to reinforce them through Iceland’s harsh weather conditions.

Just a stone’s throw from the turf houses is a church that is equally as exquisite. It is now a museum where tourists can get a glimpse of what life was like on this early farm.

Laufas was originally built between 874-940. It was destroyed by a powerful storm and rebuilt in the mid-1800s. The turf homes provided housing for everyone who worked on this successful farm.

Take in the farm from another era while being surrounded by scenic views of the towering nearby mountains. There is a gift shop and the museum provides information on the origins of this settlement.

If you have at least an hour to spend, take a short scenic trip down to Laufas. You won’t regret it!

Arctic henge

Constructed to be the sun dial for North Iceland, Arctic henge is a fasicnating structure that is steeped in astrology and lore.

When the construction is finished. the aligned gateways at Arctic Henge will capture sunlight and cast shadows precisely into the structure.

The plan is for it to be a modern version of Stone Henge that will capture the rays of the midnight sun that shines during the summer months in Iceland.

Stepping into Arctic Henge will encapsulate Icelandic history and lore. The entire location is based on the eddic poem Völuspá, and the Dwarf’s names from this poem will be instrumental to the structure.

When Arctic Henge is complete, the names of the72 dwarfs will be etched in the stone of the structure in a circle, representing the year. Five days will be dedicated to each dwarf. Following the calendar, visitors will be able to find their birthday Dwarf!

This will be a spectacular location for tourists to take in all the beauties of Iceland from the midnight sun, to the northern lights.

Hljodaklettar

If you haven’t noticed yet, Iceland is known for its unique rock formations. However, not many of them are famous for their acoustics and echos.

Hljodaklettar is a cluster of basalt columns that are arranged in no particular order. They are uniquely in disarray and form interesting rock faces and caves!

What is most interesting about these formations is they have a tendency to produce eerie and intriguing echoes.

To get a good look at the formation near the entrance Vesturdalur, in the Vatnajökull National Park, there a few paths you can take. There is an easy short path that is maked in blue that will take about 30 minutes.

The more intense path is marked in red and will take about 2 hours to complete. This one, however, has some great views of this North Iceland attraction and leads in a circle around the area.

The circular path leads to three equally interesting rock formations that are nearby. The formations are called the castle, the troll, and the church. Each of the basalt formations resembles their name with the same rugged rock faces seen throughout the cluster.

Grettislaug Hot Springs

Located just north or Saudarkrokur in Skagafjordur fjord, Grettislaug Hot Springs are the perfect place to sit back and take in the natural beauty of North Iceland!

What makes Grettislaug Hot Springs unique is they have. a much more rustic and natural look than some other hot springs in Iceland.

They feel more like they are part of the natural surroundings instead of being a way to view them.

These natural hot springs are around 39º C all year round making for a wonderful way to relax outdoors!

The springs are near the edge of the peninsula. They have a great view of Drangey and there are even some quaint turf houses nearby!

One of the most known attractions in North Iceland is Drangey, or Bird Island.

This island is home to thousands of birds that live undisturbed on the giant island, including corky puffins!

The only way to the island is through one of the guided boat tours. On these tours you have a good chance of seeing whales. Drangey is near Husavik which is popular for all of its whale watching tours.

Do you want a glimpse of the rare birds that inhabit this ancient island? Then you better be prepared for a bit of a hike!

Once you land on Drangey the only way on the island is up. A 180-meter climb up rope ladders is the only way to find yourself on top of this remarkable island. Don’t worry though, you are more than welcome to stay near the boat if you don’t want to make the climb.

Once on top, it is a sensational view of the surrounding landscapes and the ocean. You will not regret making the trip up to the beautiful bird island of Drangey!

Kolugljufur Canyon

North Iceland is just the place to have a gorgeous canyon and waterfall right off the main road.

Kolugljufur is home to a serene river that quickly falls off into Kolufoss. This waterfall is mesmerizing and unique due to the layers and ridges that make up the face of the falls.

Take the time for a short trip off of Ring Road, to watch the river wind through the deep green canyon. There is a viewing platform on site to help you take in the views, and it will barely cost any time!

If you want to walk the path alongside the canyon, you will find gorgeous waterfalls! However, taking in the views right off the road on the viewing platform will be something you won’t forget!

The beauty of North Iceland is unmatched. Not many places in the world offer so many natural wonders in one spot. It is filled with charming towns steeped in lore.

There are geothermal pools where you can gaze upon wild whales. There are even waterfalls you won’t believe with your own eyes. North Iceland’s natural beauty is something that cannot be ignored. When you see these wonders on your next trip to northern Iceland, it’s fair to say you will be in awe.

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Home » Travel Guides » Iceland » 15 Best Things to Do in North Iceland

15 Best Things to Do in North Iceland

Volcanoes, steaming lava fields, bubbling mud pools, waterfalls and geothermal springs all await in primordial North Iceland.

In this region just a few kilometres from the Arctic Circle you may feel at the end or the beginning of the earth.

North Iceland’s natural marvels are spread around a vast and unpopulated area, where the largest town by far is Akureyri, home to just 18,000 people.

To make things easier you can follow itineraries like the Diamond Circle, leading from the lonely port at Húsavík to awesome glacial canyons, the most powerful waterfall in Europe and Lake Mývatn, which has a world of alien volcanic landforms on its shores.

The coast, on the Greenland Sea is the best place to see whales in Iceland and Húsavík has a world-class museum about the cetaceans of the North Atlantic.

Let’s explore the best things to do in North Iceland :

1. Herring Era Museum

In Siglufjörður there’s a salting station that was once the centre of Iceland’s lucrative herring fishery.

In the first half of the 20th century Siglufjörður was sometimes described as the “Atlantic Klondike”, with thousands of speculators showing up for a slice of the vast wealth generated by the Atlantic herring.

The salting station was abandoned 1969 after herring simply disappeared from this corner of the Atlantic, and an ensemble of buildings was converted into a museum in 1994. The Róaldsbrakki, a Norwegian salting station, dates to 1907 and has artefacts like salting barrels and black and white photos conveying the atmosphere in Siglufjörður at the time.

Grána is a herring factory from the 1930s, with heavy machinery gathered from herring sites around Iceland, while the Boathouse recalls the bustling waterfront in Siglufjörður and has ten vessels docked on its piers.

2. Lake Mývatn

Close to the Krafla Volcano, Lake Mývatn is prized for its salmon and trout stocks, while the surrounding wetlands are protected as a natural park.

The lake was created by an eruption 2,300 years ago and is embedded in a peculiar volcanic landscape of rootless vents and lava pillars.

The birdlife on the shores is astonishingly rich, and a new Bird Museum has been opened to document the many waterfowl species (common scoter, red-breasted merganser, gadwall) that frequent the lake in summer.

Enclosing the lake is a world of bizarre volcanic sights, from craters to geothermal pools and bubbling sulphur springs.

Ten kilometres in diameter and up to two kilometres deep, the active Krafla caldera near Lake Mývatn has lava fields that are still warm and scattered with volcanic features like rifts, gullies and lava flows.

There were nine eruptions at Krafla between 1975 and 1984, during which an epic magma chamber became visible from the surface.

At Leirhnjukur there’s a hiking trail through a sulphuric terrain, where steam rises from the ground and there are neon-coloured mosses by the path.

Just remember to avoid the light clay, as it can be hot enough to melt the soles of your shoes.

Víti Maar (Crater of Hell) meanwhile is a crater that took shape after a steam explosion in 1724 and has a teal-coloured lake.

4. Mývatn Nature Bath

Up the slope from Lake Mývatn is a quieter North Icelandic equivalent to the Blue Lagoon in Grindavík.

With a view of the lake, the Mývatn Nature Bath is an inviting geothermal pool, which may be just what you need after picking your way over lava flows.

The waters are claimed to be beneficial for respiratory and skin complaints.

There’s more room to move around at the Mývatn Nature Bath, and everything’s a bit more relaxed: You can even take a beverage into the water with you and look down towards the green shores of Lake Mývatn.

The main pool has a temperature in the high-30s, and there are also two steam baths, which get closer to 50°C.

5. Hveraströnd Sulphur Springs

East of Lake Mývatn and in the shadow of Námafjall is a geothermal field on the mid-Atlantic Ridge, where temperatures not far below the surface soar to more than 200°C. Above, the landscape looks like something from another planet, with boiling mud pools, steam fumaroles and earth tinted yellow by the sulphur.

There’s no vegetation to speak of at Hveraströnd, and you have to bring a camera to capture the desolation and the plumes of steams rising from the hissing fumaroles and pools.

In the late-Medieval period Hveraströnd was a key source of the sulphur that went into early gunpowder.

6. Grjótagjá

Avid Game of Thrones watchers may want to make the pilgrimage to this beautiful lava cave with a hot spring, around 1.5 kilometres east of Lake Mývatn.

In the episode Kissed by Fire in season 3, this is where Jon Snow and Ygritte have an “encounter” causing Jon Snow to break his Night’s Watch oath.

The pool in the cave had been used for bathing since the 1930s, but became dangerously hot after the Krafla eruptions in the 70s and 80s.

Since the 90s temperatures have slipped below 45°C and bathing has been allowed once more.

7. Dimmuborgir

Translating to “Dark Castles”, Dimmuborgir is a group of strange lava fields left over from an eruption in the Þrengslaborgir and Lúdentsborgir crater row 2,300 years ago.

Just past the east shore of Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir was formed when lava, ten metres deep, pooled on top of a small lake and marsh.

As the water underneath boiled, the steam rising through the lava created bizarre formations like pillars, arches and bridges.

The top layer of lava drained away down the slope, leaving these eerie structures behind.

Dimmuborgir is the only place in the world where you can see these kinds of volcanic formations on land.

At the cafe you can try Hverabrauð, a sweet rye bread made in special wooden casks buried in geothermally heated ground.

8. Jökulsárgljúfur

The second longest river in Iceland, the glacial Jökulsá á Fjöllum has hewn away at the basalt to create an awe-inspiring canyon, 25 kilometres long, up to 500 metres wide and 120 metres deep.

In the canyon there is a chain of waterfalls: Selfoss, Dettifoss, Hafragilsfoss and Réttarfoss.

This natural monument is now the northernmost part of the enormous Vatnajökull National Park, which encompasses much of eastern Iceland.

One of the sights to search for in the canyon is Hljóðaklettar, a cluster of strange basalt columns, standing vertically, horizontally and diagonally.

Like many of the spots on this list, Ásbyrgi is on the Diamond Circle and has to be seen when you come by the Jökulsárgljúfur.

This horseshoe-shaped canyon is not far west of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river and was shaped by catastrophic glacial flooding at the end of the last Ice Age, about 8,000-10,000 years ago and then again approximately 3,000 years ago.

The canyon walls are up to 100 metres high and shelter a forest of birch, willow, larch, spruce and pine on the fringes of the Botnstjörn lake, a remnant of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum, which has long since changed course.

The Eyjan (Island) rock sits in the middle of this formation and has a photo-worthy panorama of this breathtaking scene.

The traditional explanation for Ásbyrgi is that it was formed by the hoof of Sleipnir Odin’s eight-legged horse.

10. Goðafoss

Thirty metres across and twelve metres high, Goðafoss (Waterfall of the Gods) is sensational all year round and regarded as one of Europe’s most beautiful waterfalls.

If there’s a time when the falls are absolutely unmissable it’s around late-spring when the water is encrusted with icicles.

The name, Goðafoss comes from a story in Ari Þorgilsson’s Íslendingabók, written in the early 12th century.

A century before, in 999, the lawspeaker Thorgeir Ljosvetningagodi threw his pagan idols into the falls after deciding that Iceland should officially adopt Christianity at the Althing (parliament). The falls are on the 178-kilometre Skjálfandafljót river, beginning at the Vatnajökull ice cap in the Highlands.

11. Dettifoss

In terms of discharge, Dettifoss on the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon is Iceland’s largest waterfall.

In bare rocky scenery, this colossus is 40 metres high and 100 metres wide and has an average flow rate of 193 cubic metres a second.

Dettifoss is a mainstay of the Diamond Circle, and you may have seen it in Ridley Scott’s Prometheus (2012). The high water discharge generates a thunderous roar, and propels spray high above the canyon walls.

On sunny days there’s invariably a rainbow in the canyon.

Dettifoss can be accessed by the gravel Route 864 and the recently laid 862, which has a tarmac surface.

You can embark on the hike of a lifetime from these falls to Ásbyrgi, around 30 kilometres away.

12. Húsavík

Just below the Arctic Circle, the fishing port of Húsavík in Skjálfandi Bay was, according to the Landnámabók (Book of Settlement), the first place in Iceland to be settled by Norse man, in the winter of 870. And from this the port, silica harvested at Lake Mývatn was exported to Scandinavia and the European mainland.

Now it’s a hub for the fishing industry on the north coast, and the best place in Iceland for whale spotting expeditions.

Appropriately, Húsavík Whale Museum, set in the town’s old slaughterhouse is a supreme exhibition on the whales that inhabit the North Atlantic.

There’s in-depth information about each of these cetacean species, their eco-systems and the history and present of the whaling industry in Iceland.

You can view complete skeletons of minke, sperm, pilot, humpback, beaked and bottlenose whales.

13. Whale Watching Tours

More than 20 types of cetacean can be spotted in the waters around Iceland from April to September, and Húsavík’s location in Skjálfandi Bay on the Greenland Sea makes it the prime whale watching location.

For round ISK 12,500 ($100) a variety of companies will take you on a three-hour tour of the bay where the likelihood of sighting fins, tails, blowholes or full breaches is always high.

You’ll be in the company of an expert and personable guide who can fill you in on the behaviour of minke, humpback and blue whales, and ensure you don’t miss anything.

The island’s in the bay, like Flatey and Lundey also have huge puffin colonies that you can observe.

Cold-weather gear will often be provided, and a cup of hot chocolate and a cinnamon will keep your spirits up.

On Eyjafjörður, Laufás was first mentioned in the earliest days of the Settlement of Iceland at the turn of the 10th century.

You can head there now to explore a manor/farm dating back to the 1600s, all with a photogenic mountainous backdrop.

The unusually grand manor house has was built in the second half of the 19th century using timbers from 200 years before, while the church on the site is from the same period but its fittings are much older and include a pulpit from 1698. The manor’s out buildings, including a row of delightful Icelandic turf houses, are furnished with farming tools and everyday implements from the turn of the 20th century when the farm was still running.

15. Akureyri Botanical Garden

In the town of Akureyri at the southern end of Eyjafjörður, this restful plant-based attraction has one of the most extreme locations for botanical garden on the planet.

Akureyri is just 50 kilometres south of the Arctic Circle, but there’s an unusually warm microclimate as the mountains buffer the fjord against the vicious winds.

This space was opened to the public as a park in 1912 and has been a botanical garden since 1957, now growing around 7,000 species from Arctic, temperate and mountainous zones.

Some 400 of these, growing in the southeastern corner of the garden, are flowers native to Iceland’s heaths and mountains, like dwarf birch, Bellard’s kobresia, the highland rush, dwarf fireweed and moss campion.

15 Best Things to Do in North Iceland:

• Herring Era Museum
• Lake Mývatn
• Mývatn Nature Bath
• Hveraströnd Sulphur Springs
• Dimmuborgir
• Jökulsárgljúfur
• Whale Watching Tours
• Akureyri Botanical Garden

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23 best things to do in Northern Iceland (+ Map + Photos)

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

Since it is further from Reykjavik, North Iceland is less visited than the South.  Yet, it has incredible landscapes and things to do. In Summer, it is my favorite region with many incredible volcanic features, especially around Lake Myvatn. Below is my Northern Iceland Travel Guide to help you plan your itinerary including map, tips, photos and my favorite places to see.

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

My favorite platform to rent a car in Iceland: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Whale Watching

Fun activity: Swimming in Silfra Fissure

My favorite places to stay:

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

Why visit Northern Iceland? 

North Iceland is a world of powerful landscapes:

• giant volcano craters,
• geothermal areas,
• impressive lava fields
• rushing waterfalls. 

When you travel to Northern Iceland, especially around Lake Myvatn, it feels like landing on another planet or waking up in a post-apocalyptic world , especially when you end up walking alone in a lava field still fuming!

Let me show you around…

Below is a short video showing you a snapshot of the many of the beautiful landscapes of North Iceland including waterfalls, geothermal areas, lava pillars and volcano craters:

Is North or South Iceland better?

Most visitors visit the South Region as it is easier to access. However, both regions are very different and worth a visit. To summarize, I think that :

• South Iceland is more romantic with elegant waterfalls, lagoons, icebergs…
• North Iceland is more impressive with a post-apocalyptic feel: geothermal fields, craters, lava, canyons…

More photos after the planning tips.

Planning tips – How to get to North Iceland and Lake Myvatn

How to get to north iceland.

The Northern Region is easily accessed by car via the Ring Road (Road 1) . It leads you to Akureyri (the largest town) and to Lake Mytvan.

• Reykjavik to Akureyri – 4h30 drive
• Akureyri to Myvatn – 1h20 drive
• Myvatn to Husavik – 1h drive

Another option is to fly from Reykjavik to Akureyri. It is a short flight from the domestic airport (45min, operated by Icelandair). And if you are lucky like I was, the sky will be clear, and you will be able to admire the landscapes from above. I even saw the fumes from an eruption in the distance.

It is a great region to discover on your  Road trip around Iceland .

How long to plan to visit North Iceland?

It was my favorite region in Iceland, there is a lot to see. But what is great is that you can settle in Lake Myvatn which is very central and see everything from there! I would say you need at least 3 days but 5 days would be better to really explore it.

Option 1 – Self-drive

For the freedom of stopping wherever you want and spend more time in the places you really enjoy, renting a car is the best solution. Driving in this region is actually really easy. Many of the top attractions are along or not far from the Ring Road. However, if you are hesitating, note that some of interesting places are only accessible by 4WD. You can read my articles about:

• planning an Iceland road trip
• how to rent a car in Iceland  
• driving in Iceland

Need to rent a car in Iceland?

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

See all my tips

Option 2 – Northern Iceland Tours from Akureyri

If you don’t want to drive, you can base yourself in Akureyri and book day trips such as:

• Lake Myvatn Classic Tour – See some of the best volcanic features around Myvatn including: Dimmuborgir, pseudo-craters, Grjotagja and the Myvatn bath. Plus a few other nice stops – Check out program and book
• The Diamond Circle with Dettifoss, Husavik, Godafoss… And in Summer, they make an extra stop to see puffins! – Check out program and book
• Northern light hunt from Akureyri (keep in mind that seeing northern light is not guaranteed since it is a natural phenomenon – Check out program and Book

North Iceland Map, Itinerary tips and Places to stay

Top 5 things to do in north iceland – map.

Let’s start with a map highlighting 5 of the most famous attractions in North Iceland to help you get oriented:

• Hverir geothermal area
• Godafoss waterfall
• Dimmuborgir lava field
• Dettifoss waterfall
• Whale watching (from Akureyri or Husavik)

And maybe I should also include the Myvatn Nature Baths (the equivalent to the Blue Lagoon – located between 1 and 3)

My favorite 5 places to see in Northern Iceland

My personal favorites are (and this is very difficult to select):

• Skutustadir and its pseudocraters
• Leirhnjukur
• Dimmuborgir
• The Trollaskagi peninsula

All my favorite locations (more than those) and detailed maps are included in my travel guide eBook that helps you plan your Iceland road trip :

Plan your dream trip in Iceland thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 100+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• Tips to make the most of your time
• 130+ original photos to help you choose

The towns of North Iceland

Some of the main touristic towns are :

• Akureyri, the main town
• Dalvik (on the coast of the Trollaskagi peninsula)
• Reykjahlid – on the shore of Lake Myvatn
• Husavik, on the North coast
• Egillstadir to make the jonction with the East Fjords

Road trip in North Iceland – Itinerary Tips

• I recommend basing yourself at least for a couple of nights in Myvatn . There is so much to see around and it is quite a peaceful spot just to relax
• There are 2 roads to see Dettifoss from both sides of the canyon. If you have time, I recommend both because the view is quite different, but if you are limited in time, I recommend the West Bank
• Visit Dimmuborgir at opening time . It can become crowded during the day and you enjoy a lot less the crazy formations around you
• Enjoy the pseudocraters at dawn, the place is quite magical
• Visiting Northern Iceland requires a lot more walking than South Iceland. But most walks in the attractions are easy to moderate
• Don’t climb Hverfjall when it is very windy

Note: If you don’t want to book everything yourself, consider booking a Self-Drive Tour Package (see my article to help you choose )

5 days around North Iceland – itinerary example

Doing the Ring Road clockwise, I would:

• Day 1 Visit Akureyri Enjoy Godafoss waterfall (head to Aldeyjarfoss if you have a 4WD) Sleep near Godafoss to see sunset –  See photos and availability
• Day 2 Head to Husavik – do a whale watching Tour Visit the Whale Museum Drive to Myvatn – 3 nights in Myvatn –  Choose one of the lake Myvatn accommodations
• Day 3 & 4 Enjoy the attractions around Lake Myvatn including Hverir geothermal area, Leirhnjukur fuming lava field, Dimmuborgir, the Skutustadir pseudocraters, Krafla Viti lake, Hverfjall crater… Relax at the Myvatn Nature Baths in the evening
• Day 5 Drive to Iceland’s grand canyon with the waterfalls of Dettifoss, Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss. Drive to Egilsstadir to spend the night and be ready for the East Fjords –  See best rated accommodations For example I enjoyed the IcelandAir hotel – see photos and availability

Or you can do the opposite, of course, if you are traveling counterclockwise.

For more itinerary including North Iceland, you can check out:

• My suggested for 7 days in Iceland itineraries
• My 4 itineraries to spend 10 days in Iceland
• And my favorite itinerary for 14 days around Iceland

What to wear in Northern Iceland

Check out my complete article with detailed suggestions and tips on what to wear and pack for Iceland

And keep track of your own trip!

Where to stay in Northern Iceland

• Lake Myvatn This places is incredible. You should really not miss it. There is much to see and do within 1h drive of the lake. I recommend staying at least one night, but I think 2 or more is better. The Dimmuborgir Guesthouse is one of my favorite places to stay in Iceland (I booked myself and paid entirely for my stay). Right next to the lake and with the Hverfjall crater in the background… perfect!  See more photos and check availability Or Choose one of the lake Myvatn accommodations

• Akureyri It is the capital of the North.  From here you don’t have to drive, you can explore by tours. There is a large choice or restaurants and great boat tours to see wildlife See best rated accommodations
• Egilsstadir If you are traveling from the East Fjords or to them, the town of Eilgsstadir is a perfect mid-way point to stay for a night. See best rated accommodations For example I enjoyed the IcelandAir hotel with large room and Northern lights wake up call! – see photos and availability
• Husavik Husavik is famous for its wildlife attractions. It is a small town but with wide open views, a place to breathe. See best rated accommodations
• Godafoss If you want to enjoy Godafoss at sunset, sunrise and under the stars, you can stay one night right next to it. The Fossholl Guesthouse, right on Route 1 near Godafoss. See photos and availability

More tips in my article about Where to stay in North Iceland

Where to stay in Iceland?

My favorites:

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

10 Best Things to do at Lake Myvatn

Lake Myvatn is for me the highlight of North Iceland. There are so many places to see and natural attractions concentrated there: lake, pseudo-craters, eruption craters, geothermal areas… 

1. Lake Myvatn itself

A large area, with a lake and wetlands, which has a rich fauna. It is a dream destination for those who love geology and bird watching. The lake was created by a large eruption over 2000 years ago.

Great views from near the entrance to Dimmuborgir.

2. Pseudo-craters

Skutustadagigar is a peninsula on lake Myvatn with a series of beautifully shaped pseudo-craters created when lava flowed over water.

More photos an Info on my article about the Pseudocraters

Hofdi is a park with many trees in the middle of the bare landscape. One of the paths leads you to the Lava pillars standing in lake Myvatn.

More photos an Info on my article about Hofdi

4. Dimmuborgir

Dimmuborgir is a special area around lake Myvatn where the lava created some spectacular shapes. Many paths lead you through the incredible landscape.

More photos an Info on my article about Dimmuborgir

5. Hverfjall Crater

Hverfjall is one of the largest symmetrical and circular eruption craters in the world. There are trails to climb it and tour its rim.

More photos an Info on my article about Hverfjall

6. Grjotagja

Grjotagja is a small cave created by a fissure in the crust. It is filled with geothermally heated water in a pool.

More photos an Info on my article about Grjotagja

It may be closed as it is on private property.

7. Myvatn Nature Baths

The Nature Baths are the equivalent of the Blue Lagoon but it a more intimate experience. After all the walking in the area it is nice to relax in these hot waters.

More photos an Info on my article about the Myvatn Nature Baths

Hverir is a geothermal area at the foothill of Namafjall. Features include colorful sulphurous mud springs, steam vents, cracked mud and fumaroles.

More photos an Info on my article about Hverir

9. Leirhnjukur

Leirhnjukur is a geothermal area where one of the trails allows you to walk through lava that is still fuming. 

More photos an Info on my article about Leirhnjukur

10. Krafla Viti Crater

Krafla Viti is circular crater filled with deep blue water and surrounded by colorful mountains. A trail leads you all around its rim.

More photos an Info on my article about Krafla Viti Crater

I don’t drink coffee

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

9 best things things to do in North Iceland (attractions outside Myvatn)

And here comes my selection of the best things to do in the rest of Northern Iceland:

11. Godafoss

Godafoss is an elegant horse-shoe shaped waterfall that you can easily admire from both sides. It is just next to Road 1.

More photos an Info on my article about Godafoss

12. Aldeyjarfoss

Aldeyjarfoss is an off-the beaten track waterfall with a narrow flow but a large pool and interesting lava shapes. The surrounding landscape feels like another planet.

More photos an Info on my article about Aldeyjarfoss

13. Trollaskagi Peninsula

The Trollaskagi peninsula, located North of Akureyri, is full of stunning landscapes. I especially recommend driving trough via the central road.

More photos an Info on my article about Troll peninsula

14. Dettifoss

Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Iceland with can be admired from both sides of the canyon. It is one of the most powerful in Europe.

More photos and Info on my article about Dettifoss & Selfoss

15. Selfoss

A trail leads from Dettifoss to Selfoss, a horseshoe-shaped waterfall with a multitude of others, creating a veil.

More photos an Info on my article about Dettifoss & Selfoss

16. Hafragilsfoss

Hafragilsfoss can be admired from far away as it is canyon. It is a classic curtain waterfall, but the surroundings make the sight fascinating.

More photos an Info on my article about Hafragilsfoss

17. Glaumbaer

Driving west of Akureyri on Road 1 you can take a detour to admire the turf houses of the Glaumbaer farm. It is also a small museum where you can see old farm tools.

More photos an Info on my article about Glaumbaer

18. Akureyri

Akureyri is the capital of Northern Iceland. It is a quaint town at the end of a fjords. Great if you are looking for a break from Nature. LOL.

19. Husavik

Charming fishing town with a long history around Whales. Visit the museum, take a deep breath and enjoy a whale watching or puffin watching adventure!

Plan your trip to Iceland this Summer:

• My itineraries :  5 days ,  1 week ,  10 days ,  2 weeks
• Where to stay in Iceland
• Where to stay in Reykjavik: best hotels
• 36 tips to rent a car in Iceland
• Guide to driving in Iceland
• How to plan a road trip in Iceland

4 unforgettable Northern Iceland activities

Want to take a break from all that driving? There are some great activities to have fun and see Iceland in another way. Have a look:

20 – Whale watching

North Iceland is the best places to see whales around Iceland. Tours depart all year round. You can book tours from Akureyri – see tour options and availabilities But the most famous destinations for whale watching tours is Husavik – see tour options and availabilities

21 – Horseback riding

Just you, the Icelandic horses and the landscapes. A majestic way of exploring North Iceland! From March to September

See options

22 – Super Jeep to the Central Highlands

Enjoy the thrill of getting off road in a super jeep. Head to the Central Highlands and the famous Aksja area. (June to Oct only) See program and availability

23 – Whitewater rafting

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, check out whitewater rafting on the Jokulsa river. See details and availability

OR opt for a family version of rafting See details and availability

The flies around lake Myvatn

Lake Myvatn is one of my favorite places in Iceland but it has one major issue: the flies. 

Myvatn is a thriving ecosystems with many fishes in the lake and plenty of birds. All that means flies. I was luck in September they were not that bad but still it was annoying. I can’t imagine being there when they are aggressive. Only 2 recommendations to help you there:

• Wear a head-net. Swallow your pride and forget how you look like!
• Do not do a horse ride. They are very attracted to the horses

Another solution is to stop breathing as they are attracted to the CO2 but it is not sustainable.

North Iceland and Myvatn in Winter

The North of Iceland gets a lot of snow in Winter. The experience is completely different in black and white. Some of the attractions are not accessible. But it is still worth a visit. Check out my article about Myvatn in Winter

Want to see more of the best Iceland has to offer?

• 45 Most beautiful landscapes in Iceland in pictures – read article
• The best stops on the Ring Road – read article
• The best locations off the beaten path around Iceland – read article
• 21 Most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland – read article
• Top 5 places to see around Myvatn – read article
• 5 best Lava Fields in Iceland – read article
• The 10 best lava caves in Iceland –  read article
• The 5 most beautiful black sand beaches in Iceland – read article
• The Golden Circle – read article
• The Snaefellsnes peninsula – read article

Planning a trip to Iceland?

Check out my travel guides to help you plan:

Plan your dream trip to Iceland with my guides!

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

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

Vestrahorn Iceland

NEXT: 

WEST OF AKUREYRI

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Reader Interactions

May 11, 2018 at 1:16 PM

Great travel guide Claire, many thanks.

May 11, 2018 at 8:05 PM

Great to read. Thanks Happy travels!

Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191

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10 Must-sees in North Iceland: Best Places to Visit

Prepare to be blown away by the natural and cultural wonders of North Iceland.

Touring North Iceland offers you the chance to experience remote landscapes and charming towns in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Must-see North Iceland attractions include active volcanoes, secluded fjords, thundering waterfalls, rustic fishing villages and bubbling hot springs. You could go whale watching, uncover Icelandic folklore, or go hiking in the most extraordinary of locations.

And have you heard about the Diamond Circle? This route is the north’s answer to the famous Golden Circle. The scenic journey covers some of the best places to visit in North Iceland, including the first 5 must-see attractions below.

Read on to find out which spots you shouldn’t miss on your North Iceland adventure.

• Explore these must-see sights on a North Iceland tour package

1. Dettifoss waterfall

Stand in awe before Dettifoss , the most powerful waterfall in Europe and the largest in Iceland. Dettifoss is one of the most jaw-dropping places in this part of the country, where you can really get a sense of nature’s immense energy.

As you approach Dettifoss, you’ll hear the roar of water reverberating in the air before you even lay eyes on it.

The best place for you to stand and admire the waterfall is on the east bank. Follow the pathway to the main viewpoint and prepare to be stunned by the raw power of Dettifoss.

Then, watch as the Jökulslá river drops into the canyon below from a height of 45 metres (148 feet), sprawled across a width of 100 metres (328 feet). You may even feel the spray from the river as it rises up from the depths of the canyon.

• Related: Top 10 waterfalls in Iceland

2. Ásbyrgi canyon

Head to the northernmost corner of Vatnajökull National Park to witness the impressive canyon landscape of Ásbyrgi .

Look down in wonder from the top of Ásbyrgi’s rock walls and you’ll see a horseshoe-shaped canyon carpeted in lush forest and plantlife. This greenery has been able to flourish thanks to the towering cliffs and large rock “island” that provide shelter from strong weather forces.

With its well-maintained hiking trails, thriving birdlife, rivers and waterfalls, Ásbyrgi is a must-see in North Iceland.

You might wonder how Ásbyrgi was formed. There are two answers to this question.

Scientists will tell you that the canyon was probably shaped by glacial flooding of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river after the last Ice Age.

But according to Norse mythology, Ásbyrgi was created when the god Odin flew over the region on his 8-legged flying horse, Sleipnir. The mythical creature touched the earth with his giant hoof and the vast canyon was formed.

• Take a road trip around North Iceland on one of these self-drive tour packages
• Related: Tips for driving the Diamond Circle, Iceland

3. Lake Mývatn

Lake Mývatn is one of the top North Iceland attractions you should visit, with fascinating volcanic geology to discover. If you take a Full Circle tour of the country, you can’t miss this vast lake, situated close to the Ring Road.

Mývatn is an ethereal expanse of shallow water that stretches over 37 square kilometres (14 square miles). It was formed by a basaltic lava eruption some 2,300 years ago.

You can spot other signs that this is a region shaped by volcanic activity. Lake Mývatn is surrounded by lunar-like formations such as lava pillars and rootless vents. Check out the pseudo-craters at Skútustaðir , created by gas explosions.

You’ll also want to take a closer look at the Hverfjall crater, found just to the east of the lake. Measuring 1 kilometre (3,280 feet), this is one of Europe’s largest tephra (tuff ring) craters.

Then there are the Námaskarð mud pools, also located to the east of Lake Mývatn. Marvel at the yellow and brown colours of the clay along with the gray-filled mud pools. It looks like a movie scene from another planet!

• Related: All you need to know about driving Iceland’s Ring Road

4. Goðafoss waterfall

Lay your eyes on the awe-inspiring “Waterfall of the Gods” – a North Iceland wonder. Goðafoss will dazzle you with its beautiful cascades that drape over two horseshoe-shaped falls.

In a country full of stunning waterfalls, what sets Goðafoss apart is the sheer width of the tumbling falls. White water from the Skjálfandafljót river surges over the rim, thundering down and crashing into the rocks. 

These falls are captivating to behold all year round. Watch the falls under the midnight sun in summer, or come in winter to see them cloaked in ice and snow.

Why is it called “Waterfall of the Gods”, you ask? Icelanders’ sagas have it that Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, a lawmaker, cast his statues of the pagan gods into the rushing water. This was after deciding, in the year 1000, that Iceland should adopt Christianity.

• Get to know North Iceland like a local on a guided small group tour

5. Húsavík

You might recognise Húsavík from Netflix’s Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga . Húsavík was one of the Eurovision movie’s filming locations , the hometown of characters Sigrit and Lars – played by Rachel McAdams and Will Ferrell.

In real life you’ll discover that the seafront town of Húsavík is one of the most charming places to visit in North Iceland.

Admire the traditional Icelandic architecture, including the distinctive, wooden church which dates back to 1907. Enjoy views of the Kinnarfjöll mountains across the bay, where fishing boats bob on the water’s surface.

Above all else, you shouldn’t miss a whale-watching tour from Húsavík.

The success rate of whale sightings here is the highest in the country, which is why many call Húsavík the “Whale-watching Capital of Iceland”. You could spot up to 23 different species of cetaceans on your boat tour along the Arctic coast, including humpback, minke and blue whales.

• Related: Your complete guide to whale watching in Iceland

6. Dimmuborgir lava formations

As you now know, the Lake Mývatn area in North Iceland is brimming with otherworldly volcanic formations that are intriguing to behold. Another place you should visit in this part of Iceland is Dimmuborgir .

Situated to the east of Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir is a strange lava landscape. Its name  means “Dark Castles,” owed to the interesting rock formations jutting out of the ground, resembling a fort from an ancient city.

Walk through this extraordinary place to see columns, caves and arches, including the most famous formation: Kirkjan (“the Church”).

The black lava pillars were born from a collapsed lava tube from a large volcanic eruption more than 2,000 years ago.

• See North Iceland with an expert on a privately guided tour

7. Skagafjörður valley

Discover the blissfully remote Skagafjörður , a valley set by a beautiful fjord of the same name in North Iceland. Skagafjörður is the perfect place to explore if you’re looking for a picturesque countryside retreat during your North Iceland tour .

Here you’ll find sweeping pastures roamed by Icelandic horses, a breed that is unique to the country. In fact, these Icelandic animals outnumber the human population in Skagafjörður. This makes it the ideal spot for a horse riding excursion.

Skagafjörður is also home to mighty gorges, soaring mountains, and rocky islands. From the coastline you can see the isles of Málmey, Drangey and Lundey rising from the fjord waters.

Come at dusk to witness the breathtaking sunset over the North Atlantic Ocean. If you’re visiting Iceland in summer , you might stay up late to experience the midnight sun. You could even take a detour to Hvítserkur, west of Skagafjörður. This sea stack looks like a dragon drinking from the water.

Or choose a winter trip to Iceland to chase the northern lights. With its wide open landscapes, proximity to the Arctic Circle, and lack of light pollution, Skagafjörður is a great place to hunt for the aurora borealis.

• Explore these northern lights tours of Iceland
• Related: Iceland's hidden gems: things to do off the beaten path

8. Krafla volcano

Imagine staring down at a crater on the slopes of a volcano, in an area that’s still geothermally active. This is what it’s like when you visit Krafla , a volcano that’s 818 metres (2,690 feet) high with a caldera that’s 10 kilometres (6 miles) across.

Krafla, which is set on a fissure zone in North Iceland, erupted 9 times between 1974 and 1984. This series of events is known as the “Fires of Krafla”.

You’ll sense the raw power of this volcanic landscape as you explore the fumaroles, mud pots and lava fields around Krafla and the neighbouring Leirhnjúkur.

Don’t miss Víti, one of the best-known craters in Iceland. You can reach this jade green, volcanic crater lake via a 20-minute walk from the Krafla car park. It’s a fascinating example of Iceland’s fiery nature.

• Related: 7 volcanic experiences to have in Iceland

9. Akureyri

Although the great majority of North Iceland’s star attractions are natural ones, you shouldn’t miss a visit to its biggest cultural hub.

Akureyri is the second largest town in Iceland, after Reykjavík, and is nicknamed the “Capital of the North”. It’s still small, with a population of just 18,000. But when you’re journeying through the vast landscapes in the region, that’ll feel pretty big!

Wander through the old town in Akureyri and keep an eye out for original buildings like the theatre, school house and hospital. These all date back to 1827. Then there’s the wooden house, Laxdalshús, which was constructed in 1795.

As well as admiring the architecture of Akureyri, you could visit the world’s northernmost botanical garden: Lystigarðurinn. There are also museums to pop into, such as the Icelandic Folk Art Museum which bestows you with a view of the Eyjafjörður fjord.

And, just like Húsavík, Akureyri is a great place to enjoy some whale watching.

• Choose a multi-day tour of Iceland to take day trips from Akureyri and Reykjavík

10. Mývatn Nature Baths

One of the coolest things about exploring North Iceland? You have the chance to dip in the naturally heated waters of a geothermal pool: Mývatn Nature Baths .

Soak up the views of the ethereal landscape near Lake Mývatn while you bathe in one of Iceland’s best geothermal pools . The waters, fed by a hot spring, are rich in minerals and sulphur, which is thought to help soothe skin conditions and asthma.

Enjoy delightfully warm temperatures of between 38 and 40°C (100 and 104°F). This may already seem hot to you, but the waters are actually cooled from a natural temperature of 130°C (266°F)!

Then why not relax in the steam baths at this geothermal spa? You still get to see the view though, thanks to the wide windows that frame your surroundings.

• Related: Nordic spa and wellness traditions

When you’re ready to explore North Iceland for yourself, Nordic Visitor can help.

Our Iceland travel experts are based in Reykjavík and know the country inside out. They’ll be able to plan a tour of North Iceland for you, incorporating all the must-see sights that you’d like to experience.

Your dedicated travel consultant will design and book your trip for you, while you relax, reserve your flights, and look forward to your getaway.

Leave it to us to arrange your stays in handpicked accommodation, your transport, and any guided activities. You also get daily breakfast as part of the package and access to our 24/7 helpline throughout your tour, just in case you need us.

Get in touch with our Iceland travel team to make your dream trip a reality.

Wanderlust has taken Emma across much of the world, but it was Scotland that she made her adopted home. Aside from enjoying countryside walks, campervan weekends and gigs in Glasgow, you’ll often find her writing about European travel and plotting her next trip.

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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• Last Updated: March 14, 2024
• Viktória Komjáti

Most Iceland visitors tour Reykjavík, the Golden Circle , and the country’s famed South Coast , then leave again. They’ll have a wonderful time, to be sure, but are also missing out. A stone’s throw from the Arctic Circle, North Iceland offers a remote grandeur that makes it well worth feeling like you’re at the edge of the world. Epic snow-capped peaks, lush pastures lining fjords, dramatic waterfalls and canyons, exciting volcanic history, and waters alive with dolphins, seals, and whales are yours to discover if you travel just a little further.

North Iceland’s capital is Akureyri, a delightful little city once deemed “ The Best Place to Visit in Europe ” by Lonely Planet. But most of the region is sparsely populated by around 40,000 people and many more sheep and horses.

Guided Tours

Infrastructure and road conditions, north iceland weather, geology and landscape, kayaking and sailing, whale watching, skiing, ski touring, and heli-skiing.

Read on to find out how the weather of North Iceland differs from that in the south, about the geology that formed its unique landscape, and what are the best things to do in the region. In a separate article, we’ve listed the 20 most exciting attractions you shouldn’t miss out on when visiting North Iceland .

How to Get About

Nordurland, as the area is known in Icelandic, is easily reached from Reykjavík via just one road: the Ring Road, which circles the country. Reykjavík to Akureyri is a trip of around five hours if you drive non-stop, but as you’ll certainly want to pull over frequently for photos, it’s best to plan a whole day for the journey. The route to North Iceland is lined throughout by glories and attractions you can’t possibly ignore.

You’ll need at the very least three days to feel like you’ve discovered most North Iceland has to offer. For those wanting to spend less time in a car and more time exploring, it’s best to plan for four to five days. Whether you hire a campervan, car, or motorhome or take a multi-day guided tour, you’ll make the most of being in this glorious region.

As buses to Akureyri run just once a day and don’t make stops at the natural attractions, public transport isn’t an option. So group tours with a guide are a great choice if you don’t want to drive. These tours aren’t much more expensive than traveling by public transport, with the bonuses of more stops accompanied by invaluable information delivered in English. Another great advantage of guided multiday tours is that accommodation and meals are included, simplifying your planning and removing the hassle and uncertainties of booking accommodation.

Tours to North Iceland depart from Reykjavík and last a minimum of three days. Or, if you prefer, you can join an “ around Iceland ” tour of the entire island lasting anywhere from six to twenty days. When deciding on the length, bear in mind that the longer tours provide an opportunity to capture both sweeping and intimate pictures of it all.

There are also many shorter guided activity tours you can book after you arrive. You can try exciting physical activities like Superjeep tours or horseback riding. Incredible whale-watching tours depart regularly from Akureyri, Dalvik, and Húsavík. Being the largest northern city, Akureyri offers many day tours, as well as multi-day trekking tours into the stunning Highlands area. Guesthouses, tourist information centers, and most other tourism facilities can offer detailed information to help you choose.

Self-Drive Tours

If guided tours aren’t your thing, you can, of course, plan your trip, requiring you to rent and drive your vehicle and journey around the North Iceland region without direct assistance. This takes some planning but is entirely doable. Remember to include a minimum of three to four days just to travel from Reykjavík to North Iceland and return, and plan for as many more days as you can spare in North Iceland for the most memorable experience possible.

We can make it easier for you here and create your custom self-drive itinerary, including accommodation and activity bookings and anything you need for a perfect plan! If you need our help, don’t hesitate to contact us!

The sparse population of North Iceland, mostly in small villages, of course, means there can be somewhat limited options when it comes to food shopping or eating out. Akureyri is the country’s second-largest city; however, it has a vibrant variety of city activities, cafés and restaurants, food, and other shopping, all with that unique Icelandic style and vibe.

Of the larger towns in the region, Dalvík, Húsavík, Siglufjörður, and Varmahlíð are the best known. They do contain some lovely places to eat, shop, and stay. But consider that options for countryside accommodation and shopping are more limited than those in the cities, so it’s advisable to plan and book ahead of time.

Iceland’s main Ring Road is easily navigated and in good condition. However, while it benefits from year-round maintenance, in winter, the weather conditions can change swiftly so that even that road can see closures for short spells. The smaller roads in fjord areas can be less well-maintained and tricky to drive on during that season.

It’s best to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle if choosing to explore North Iceland from November to April (or any time of year if approaching the region from the Highlands). If you’re not experienced in driving through the wintry conditions you might encounter during that period, it’s safest and best to join a guided tour instead. But you don’t have to worry about that during the summer months: driving around North Iceland in any kind of vehicle should be a breeze, provided that you stick to paved roads.

Average temperatures in the north are slightly cooler than in southern and western parts of the country, its proximity to the Arctic Circle sometimes feeling quite evident. Winter arrives sooner, and spring arrives later there than in Reykjavík.

Winter nights in the north are long and extra-dark, the daytime lasting as little as three hours. This makes the region the most statistically-probable place for clear winter skies. So if the aurora borealis, or northern lights, are what you’re after, North Iceland is your dream destination.

You’ll be pleased to hear that statistically, North Iceland is also the driest and sunniest part of the country. Somewhat lower precipitation and fewer clouds make it a bit more pleasant than the rest of the country. Though even the summer months are slightly cooler than elsewhere, the sunnier weather and longer days make it glorious. Unlike in the southerly regions, you may even be able to see the midnight sun: a true Arctic Circle experience.

Iceland is a latecomer to Europe, forming over 100 million years later than the continent, about 26-44 million years ago. The entire country lies directly on top of a geological hotspot; hence it is well-known for geothermal heat and volcanic activity.

North Iceland is divided in two by an active volcanic zone, a fissure in the Myvatn area, which runs from north to south and is part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. This accounts for the volcanic system of the region. It includes two central volcanoes, Askja in the eastern Highlands and Krafla in the North, associated eruptions, high-temperature geothermal fields, lava flows, and rhyolite and silicic rocks. So the dramatic and unusual landscape was formed by that very Krafla-Námafjall fissure, which has erupted many times for centuries.

The most famous eruption in the area is known as the Mývatn Fires, which occurred from 1724-1729. Many different fissure vents opened simultaneously, creating a lava flow that destroyed farms near Reykjahlíð, thankfully with no fatalities. The event caused lava fountains to be observed from the country’s south.

In December 1975, one of the largest modern Icelandic eruptions began, lasting almost nine years. The “Fires of Krafla” as it is known, saw the eponymous volcano erupt nine times over that period, taking a break now and then in between. By the time it was finished, a lava field measuring 36 square kilometers, or 13.9 square miles, had been formed.

There have been no further eruptions since 1984; nonetheless, a hot geothermal field remains inside Krafla’s crater, and the area continues to be replete with powerful volcanic activity. This is very useful for nearby communities that harvest geothermal power for electricity and hot water for their homes and swimming pools.

The famous Blue Lagoon in the south is matched by the northern Myvatn Nature Baths, a gift from all the geothermal activity to balance the risks. Lake Mývatn is part of the system and is surrounded by many great geological beauties, such as picturesque lava fields and pseudo-craters.

But the region offers more than ‘just’ volcanoes and volcanic offspring. It also contains incredible mountains, some snow-capped throughout the year, with the mountainous Highlands of central North Iceland hosting small cirque and rock glaciers. You can find those tall mountains on the Tröllaskagi Peninsula, which is an essential destination in summer or winter if you love hiking or skiing.

The incredibly varied and fascinating geological features of North Iceland are born of a complex interaction between fluctuating sea levels, glacial rivers, glaciers, lakes, and volcanic activity. It is, therefore unique, not just in the world but even in comparison to the landscape you’ll find in the east, south, or Westfjords of Iceland. And in addition to all of that, you can observe the boundaries between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. There’s nowhere else like it.

Things to Do in North Iceland

With so many astonishing sights and exhilarating activities in this most unique of countries, taking your time to travel extensively will make the most of it and leave you with far more memories and experiences than a flying visit. Exploring North Iceland thoroughly, whether self-driving or touring, is something you’ll never regret.

Start road-tripping by following the Ring Road northwards out of Reykjavík, but take detours as you go to explore the peninsulas we’ve described above. In a city, a detour is often a negative experience caused by roadworks; the opposite is true here.

Stop at every village possible for a coffee, which is a very important beverage in Iceland. Explore each place and enjoy what’s there, whether strolling in a harbor, chatting with local people, learning from a historical site, or trying a local specialty. Even the smallest and most remote villages are prepared for visitors, and you can expect warm welcomes.

We listed North Iceland’s must-visit attractions in this separate article .

You don’t have to feel rushed or regimented. Remember to breathe deeply in the crisp air, listen to the birdsong, watch the skies change, and relax as you soak in the plethora of geothermal pools.

If you’re touring in winter, be sure to have a suitable vehicle, and check weather and driving conditions frequently. Remember that if you don’t have winter driving experience, it’s easy to book a guided tour and put yourself in the safe hands of a local who knows the roads and meteorology.

The Ring Road is closed only occasionally when the weather is truly bad and rarely for longer than a few hours. While smaller roads may be difficult to drive or entirely inaccessible in winter, it’s always possible to get to Akureyri as long as the Ring Road is passable. In summer, however, it’s safe and simple to drive in North Iceland, though do consider a four-wheel drive vehicle if traversing the Highlands.

North Iceland is a paradise for people who love hiking in nature. Great trails can be found in the mountains near Akureyri, in the areas of Myvatn and Krafla, and on the peninsulas with their fascinating cliffs. But the best destination for hiking is probably Ásbyrgi Canyon because it is so unique in Iceland and the world.

Different paths crisscross the small but dense forest between the massive canyon walls. The trails end at an impressive wall 100 meters (328 feet) high, at the foot of which is a small turquoise and green pond, sometimes with birds floating calmly on it. It’s like stumbling across a colorful jewel at the foot of a castle. The most appealing thing about that place is the acoustics, which magnifies sounds. The ducks still quack away, but human visitors find themselves whispering, so they don’t disturb the peace or perhaps to avoid disturbing any ‘little people.

The fjord waters of North Iceland are generally safe and calm to paddle around, especially for experienced kayakers, so exploring and viewing the landscape from the water is highly recommended. If you have little or no experience with paddling or sea travel, you can gain some by booking a guided boat or kayak tour available in many villages. Some boat tours even give you the option of traveling to more remote islands and within the Arctic Circle, which also provides the bonus of possibly spotting such sealife as dolphins, seals, and even whales.

No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, heading north gives you the best chance of experiencing the unforgettable phenomena known as the northern lights and the midnight sun.

The northern lights can be seen between late August and late March. North Iceland is the ideal location to gasp and gaze at them due to its longer nights and clearer and less cloudy skies than the south. To maximize your chances, use apps and websites to track predictions of aurora activity and weather conditions, avoid city lights and a full moon, stay up late (there is statistically more activity from midnight onwards), look to the northern horizon, and look out for them on more than one night.

Northern Iceland is also best for seeing the midnight sun due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle. This unending sunset can be observed in June and July and only from a few places up north. So don’t try it from Reykjavik, and plan.

The GeoSea Baths mentioned above, set on a high cliff in Húsavík, have an idyllic viewpoint over the North Atlantic and opening times that make it possible to bathe and relax while witnessing the northern lights or the midnight sun as well as taking in the landscape.

It would be hard to find a more scenic spot to enjoy geothermal pools than this North Icelandic heaven. Having said that, the pool in Hosfós has just as beautiful a view, though it is perhaps a little less luxurious. Try them both and see which one is the favorite to which you’ll long to return.

The Mývatn Nature Baths are often referred to as the northern counterpart of the world-famous Blue Lagoon Spa. Its water has very similar characteristics to the Blue Lagoon. However, the facilities are less luxurious, but the entrance fee is also much cheaper. It’s the only pool of its size in the area and is ever-increasing in popularity.

As with sky watching, you’re better off dolphin, porpoise, and whale watching in North Iceland, as it’s the best part of the country for successful sightings of the marvelous creatures. You can take tours from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Reykjavík, but the success rate in North Iceland is nearly 100% in the summer months. The proof is that northern companies offer a free second trip or a guaranteed refund if you see no cetaceans.

Iceland’s waters are host to over 20 species of these incredible creatures, some seen more frequently than others. Tours in the north tend to light upon eight cetacean species in particular. Humpback whales are naturally curious and friendly, so there’s a good chance of seeing those, as well as harbor porpoises and white-beaked dolphins. Minke and pilot whales are seen less often but not uncommonly. While shyer, the stupendous blue whales are seen at least a few times each summer season. Why not try your luck?

As for wintertime, there are still whale-watching tours in operation; it’s just that your chances of sightings are lower, at around 90–95% of North Iceland-based trips. But going whale watching at any time of year is more than just an adventure and often a delight. It also supports an economy that arose as an alternative to hunting and killing whales. For this reason, the Icelandic whale-watching industry motto is, “Meet us, don’t eat us!”

The ski areas in North Iceland offer especially breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. Seven well-equipped ski resorts in the region are open from mid-November to May. Offering ski rentals and ski schools for everyone, the slopes are suited to children and adults. Whether a beginner or an extreme skier, you’ll find what you’re looking for!

Experienced skiers can immerse themselves in backcountry skiing; the opportunities are endless. The most popular skiing destination is Troll Peninsula, where long runs can reach up to 1,500 meters (4 921 ft) vertical. With upwards of about 100 mountains to discover on the Troll Peninsula, there is an endless amount of untouched snow. The peninsula is surrounded by the Arctic Ocean, so you can ski down right to the coast. The terrain looks as if it had been specially created for ski touring, snowboarding, and heli-skiing, all of which are available activities for the avid skier.

Backcountry skiing on virgin slopes requires special snow conditions; therefore, the season differs from the regular ski season. In North Iceland, snow conditions usually remain favorable well into spring, the season lasting from mid-February to the end of June.

We’ve covered the most interesting facts and most exciting activities regarding North Iceland in our article. In this separate article , you can read about what to see in the region. Contact us for your tailor-made vacation package, and a local professional will personally help you to plan your perfect North Iceland holiday.

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North Iceland

Iceland’s mammoth and magnificent north is a geologist’s heaven. A wonderland of moonlike lava fields, belching mudpots, epic waterfalls, snowcapped peaks and whale-filled bays – this is Iceland at its best. The region’s top sights are variations on a couple of themes: the grumbling, volcanically active earth, and water and ice coursing towards the broad coast.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

The tiny rocky islet of Drangey (drown-gay), in the middle of Skagafjörður, is a dramatic flat-topped mass of volcanic tuff with 180m-high sheer…

The 18th-century turf-farm museum at Glaumbær is the best museum of its type in northern Iceland and worth the easy 8km detour off the Ring Road,…

Herring Era Museum

Tröllaskagi

Lovingly created over 16 years, this award-winning museum does a stunning job of recreating Siglufjörður’s boom days between 1903 and 1968, when it was…

Dimmuborgir

Mývatn Region

The giant jagged lava field at Dimmuborgir (literally ‘Dark Castles’) is one of the most fascinating flows in the country. A series of nontaxing, colour…

Hljóðaklettar

The bizarre swirls, spirals, rosettes, honeycombs and basalt columns at Hljóðaklettar (Echo Rocks) are a highlight of any hike around Vesturdalur and a…

The dramatic lava cave at Lofthellir is a stunning destination, with magnificent natural ice sculptures dominating the interior. Although it's one of…

Goðafoss (Waterfall of the Gods) rips straight through the Bárðardalur lava field along Rte 1. Although smaller and less powerful than some of Iceland’s…

Dominating the lava fields on the eastern edge of Mývatn is the classic tephra ring Hverfjall (also called Hverfell). This near-symmetrical crater…

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• What to see

North Iceland

Northern Iceland and the Trollaskagi Peninsula are a must on any route through Iceland and are an ideal region for enjoying nature and whale or puffin watching .

What to see in North Iceland

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With just over 2000 inhabitants, Húsavík has established itself as an essential stop on any route around Iceland as it is an ideal place to see whales and puffins.

7 Awesome things you can do in Northern Iceland

Last Updated on November 4, 2023 by

Northern Iceland is often overshadowed by the abundant mind-blowing landscapes of the South, but it’s truly a diamond in the rough, waiting to be discovered. While venturing north is sometimes considered an adventure for the brave, I firmly believe that Northern Iceland is a fantastic alternative to the more frequented paths in the country. If you’re seeking an experience beyond the the busy roads of the Golden Circle , then heading north is the way to go. In this guide, you’ll find a detailed itinerary for a 2-3 day road trip to Northern Iceland, offering insights into the best things to do and helping you plan your next fantastic adventure in this remarkable region.

Table of Contents

Tips for Visiting Northern Iceland

In this section, you will find the best tips to plan your adventure to Northern Iceland. Indeed, this part of the country, is slightly different from the Southern part, making travel slightly challenging in adverse weather conditions.

When is the best time to visit Northern Iceland?

The roads and weather conditions in Northern Iceland can be quite different from other regions of the country, particularly to the more touristy areas. While visiting during winter has its advantages, such as the chance to witness the Northern Lights, it also comes with potential hazards such as heavy ice on the roads and adverse weather conditions. For the most comfortable and accessible experience, the best time to visit Northern Iceland typically ranges from late April to mid-October. However, for personal experience, during April, you might still encounter some icy roads, but most of the attractions are open and visitable, providing a more pleasant and safer travel experience.

Road accessibility and weather conditions in Northern Iceland

It’s crucial to consider the timing of your visit to Northern Iceland, especially in terms of road accessibility. While other areas of Iceland may have passable roads, some routes in Northern Iceland might be closed due to snow and ice. For example, when we visited in April, we couldn’t access Dettifoss because the road was blocked by snow and ice.

Weather in Iceland can be highly unpredictable and this might affect your journey in a serious way. For this reason there are two essential tools that you need to keep handy for your journey. The first is the app Veður. This is developed by Icelandic Meteorological Office and gives you accurate weather predictions for your area. This includes also notifications for potential weather hazards in your area (e.g. we received one when we were in Reynisfjara).

You can download Veður on both IOS and Android .

The second, is the Road and Weather conditions live updates from Road.is. There used to be an app but this has been discontinued and now you can check live updates here . This is a very useful tour if you are doing an Iceland road trip as it gives you an easy to understand and updated report of most roads in the nation.

Lastly, Avoid driving at night on unfamiliar and icy roads, and whenever possible, stay on the Ring Road if you have doubts about road conditions. Icelandic roads can become extremely treacherous in unpredictable weather conditions. Your safety should always be the top priority, so exercise caution and make informed choices when traveling in these conditions.

Dining and Grocery in Northern Iceland

It is wise to plan your activities in advance, especially where and when you intend to dine. Dining options can be limited in this region. Therefore, I recommend choosing one of the main cities like Húsavík or Akureyri, which offer more extensive services. If you’re staying in an isolated location, be sure to pack groceries before starting your trip. Indeed, there are not many supermarkets along the road in the more remote areas of Northern Iceland. If you are driving longer stretch of road ensure to check the fuel stations and any supermarket/restaurants along the way before embarking on your journey.

Proper planning will enhance your experience and ensure you have what you need during your journey.

What to wear in Northern Iceland

Wearing proper waterproof and insulated boots is a smart choice when visiting Northern Iceland. You’ll often find yourself walking on snowy terrain, and the temperatures in this region can be colder than in Southern Iceland. Wearing layers is always an optimal choice when visiting colder places.

How many days do I need to visit Northern Iceland?

Northern Iceland is a region brimming with incredible sights and natural wonders. To fully explore the area and experience all it has to offer, dedicating 5 days would be an optimal timeframe. However, if you are on a longer itinerary of Iceland or have time constraints, 2 or 3 days are still sufficient to cover the main highlights and immerse yourself in the beauty of Northern Iceland. It’s a versatile destination that can be tailored to different lengths of stay, ensuring a memorable experience regardless of your schedule.

Can I see the Northern Lights in North Iceland?

Absolutely! Northern Iceland is one of the best places to spot the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis. It offers several advantages for aurora hunting, including being less populated, having longer hours of darkness, and experiencing less cloud cover than other regions. Lake Myvatn, in particular, is renowned as a top spot for Northern Lights viewing.

However, it’s important to note that the area can be quite challenging to navigate, especially at night and in icy conditions. If you plan to venture off the beaten path for Northern Lights viewing, it’s advisable to undertake an organized tour. These tours typically provide experienced guides and the necessary equipment to ensure a safe and successful aurora-watching experience in Northern Iceland.

Why I should visit Northern Iceland?

A Geological Heaven

The Northern part of Iceland is truly a geological heaven, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes and dramatic scenery. This region has no reason to envy the more famous Southern Iceland, as it boasts equally stunning natural wonders. What sets Northern Iceland apart is its relative lack of tourist attention, even during high season. This means that, even at the peak of travel, you have the opportunity to explore and experience many places with a sense of solitude.

During the spring season, temperatures can be quite chilly in the northern areas, given their proximity to the Arctic Circle. However, outdoor life remains enjoyable, and there are ample opportunities for day trips and outdoor adventures. The region is so rich in natural beauty and attractions that two days hardly seem sufficient to take it all in. I wish we spent more time exploring it!

Two-day itinerary of Northern Iceland

The map of Northern Iceland below provides a suggested two-day itinerary that’s easy to follow and covers some of the region’s top attractions. If you have more time at your disposal, you can easily incorporate additional attractions and points of interest along the way to further enrich your experience in this captivating part of Iceland.

Day one in Northern Iceland

On your first day in Northern Iceland, a great starting point is the city of Húsavík (Point A). Here, you can stock up on groceries for the day and plan your activities. Húsavík is located approximately 69 kilometers from your next destination, Krafla (Point B). The drive is relatively short, taking about one hour, and the landscape along the way is absolutely breathtaking. Depending on the conditions of Krafla (for example, when we visited, it was entirely frozen), you can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour exploring the area.

From Krafla, it’s a quick drive of less than 10 kilometers (about 12 minutes) to reach your next stop, the stunning and colorful landscapes of Námafjall (Point C). If you have spare time and a sense of adventure, you can opt for a half-day hike in the volcanic mountains of Hverir. Alternatively, after your visit to Námafjall, you can hop back in the car and head to the Grjótagjá Cave (Point D), which is only 5.8 kilometers away (about an 8-minute drive).

The final stop of the day is the magnificent Goðafoss waterfall. This is located approximately 53 kilometers from your current position, and the drive takes about one hour. For the first day, we decided to stay in a pod in the middle of nowhere in Laxamýri. This location is only 39 kilometers from Goðafoss, making it an ideal place to potentially spot the Northern Lights and continue with your Northern Iceland itinerary.

Day 2 on Northern Iceland

On your second day in Northern Iceland, you can begin in the city of Akureyri ( Point F). This charming city offers plenty of opportunities for leisure, including exploring its lovely cafes and shops. You can easily entertain yourself here for a half day or more.

A second stop on your itinerary can be the delightful museum of Glaumbær (Point G), which is located approximately 102 kilometers from Akureyri. The drive will take around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Admittedly, on our second day, we took it easy and enjoyed a more relaxed pace, as we had been on the road for several days by that point and wanted to enjoy the surrounding landscape. However, if you’re looking to add more spots to your itinerary, this part of Iceland offers plenty of attractions and natural wonders to explore. The choice is yours, and you can tailor your journey to your preferences and schedule.

Additional itinerary suggestions for Northern Iceland

If you have more time to dedicate to this wonderful region, I warmly suggest you to plan the following stops:

• Lake Mývatn and its Nature Baths is known for its stunning natural beauty. We visited briefly but not enough to consider it a proper stop. While there, you can consider relaxing in the Nature Baths , which are similar to the Blue Lagoon but less crowded. Entrance fee starts at 6,490 ISK per person.
• Dettifoss Waterfall is one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. As said before, this was one of our original stops but all the roads leading to the waterfall were closed for ice.
• The caldera of Askja is volcanic wonderland featuring a stunning caldera. Once you are there, if the weather allows it, you take a dip in the Víti crater’s geothermal lake.
• Hiking in the Súlur mountain. For those who enjoy hiking, consider adding an extra day to conquer the Súlur mountain, offering panoramic views and a rewarding outdoor adventure.
• Reykjafoss Waterfall is regarded as one of Skagafjörður’s hidden treasures. The path to reach the waterfall should be ok in every season.

7 awesome things to do in Northern Iceland

1. go whale-watching in húsavík.

Húsavík, a charming small fishing town nestled along Skjálfandi Bay, has a rich history. Its name, which literally means “bay of the houses,” hints at its historical significance. Indeed, according to Icelandic sources, Húsavík may well be the oldest Icelandic settlement. It’s believed that the Swedish explorer Garðar wintered here in 867. This would make Húsavík the first inhabited Icelandic settlement, pre-dating Ingolfur Arnasson’s settlement in Reykjavik.

While there may be no physical remnants of the old Norse village, the town has since transformed into a beautiful and vibrant community. Today, Húsavík is celebrated as a major tourist hub. Every year, it attracts visitors with its natural beauty, whale-watching tours, and a range of attractions that make it a must-visit destination in Northern Iceland.

 Other things to do in Húsavík

In Húsavík, if whale watching isn’t on your agenda or you’re looking for alternative activities, there are many other delightful options to explore in this charming town. You can take a leisurely stroll around its peaceful harbor, soaking in the maritime atmosphere and scenic views.

For those interested in culture and history, consider taking a cultural tour through the town’s museums. Two major museums in Húsavík are The Museum of Exploration and the Húsavík Whale Museum . Both of them offer valuable insights into the region’s heritage and natural wonders.

Don’t forget to visit the photogenic Húsavíkurkirkja, a wooden church that has graced the main street of Húsavík since 1907. This charming church is a visual delight and a piece of local history that you won’t want to miss during your visit to the city.

2. Hiking in the Krafla caldera

The caldera of Krafla, which features a main crater known as Viti (meaning ‘Hell’ in Icelandic), has a fascinating history. This crater was formed during a massive explosive eruption that began in 1724 and lasted for approximately five years. In the years following the eruption, the crater truly resembled a “boiling hell,” earning its fiery name.

Today, the Viti crater boasts a diameter of 300 meters. This is fully walkable, offering visitors the chance to explore its remarkable landscape. During the summer, you’ll find a stunning turquoise lake at the bottom of the crater, creating a picturesque scene. While we couldn’t witness this due to the frozen conditions during our visit (we just hiked up and down), the beauty of the Krafla area is still undeniable. The smoke rising from the volcanic ground added a unique mood to the atmosphere.

As you approach the crater, you’ll also encounter intriguing structures. These belong to the nearby Power Station, which operates in close proximity to the caldera. These structures, resembling lunar bases, are quite photogenic and add to the otherworldly ambiance of the area.

3. Walk in a Mars-looking scenery at Námafjall Hverir

Can you see how beautiful is this scenery? Well, prepare yourself for an equal amount of smell! Indeed, these amazing colours are due to the sulphur crystals surrounding the mud pools and sulfataras characterising the area. The pungent smell is a testament to the geothermal activity beneath the surface. However, it’s remarkable how one can acclimate to the smell and fully appreciate the breathtaking landscape. Námafjall was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our Northern Iceland tour. Moreover, its expansive geothermal area is one of the largest in the country.

Námafjall’s accessibility from Lake Myvatn and the East Fjords makes it a convenient addition to the North Iceland itinerary. Especially if you’re planning a day trip to Krafla. The active fumaroles, that abound in this geothermal area, truly enhance the scenic beauty. This will make you feel as if you’ve stepped onto another world. It’s a surreal and captivating experience that will adds a unique dimension to your Northern Iceland journey

Visiting Námafjall Hverir. Things to know

Navigating the Námafjall geothermal area requires caution. Indeed, the paths may not always be clearly visible, and getting too close to the mud pools can be dangerous. If you have the time and an adventurous spirit, the Námaskarð Pass hike is very recommended. Indeed, it provides an opportunity to delve deeper into a landscape that resembles something out of a science fiction novel, akin to the surface of Mars.

What’s even more mind-blowing is that despite its Martian appearance, Námafjall played a significant role in NASA’s training for the Apollo lunar missions. In fact, the geological conditions found in some Icelandic areas serve as planetary analogs to those of the moon.

The intense smell and the steam coming from the ground work as a good reminder of how powerful and beautiful is our planet! I really enjoyed my visit to this place and I hope to go for a second round tour!

4. Live a GoT adventure in the Grjótagjá Cave

If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, you don’t want to miss the occasion of visiting this little hidden gem at just ten minutes from Námafjall and Lake Myvatn. Famous for being the Jon Snow and Ygritte’s cave, Grjótagjá was actually used as a thermal bath by Icelanders. Nevertheless, this was until the ’70, when a powerful eruption caused a sudden rise of the water temperature, which became above 50 degrees.

Today, bathing in Grjótagjá is not recommended . In fact, the water temperature is still very fluctuating passing from mild to boiling hot. The cave is also quite small and with a low ceiling. Unless you want to swim, I’m not sure it would fit more than five people.

5. Search for the Norse Gods at Goðafoss

Have you ever visited a natural landscape that is also a piece of history? Well, Goðafoss is precisely that. In fact, its name literally means “Waterfall of the Gods.” The waterfall is nothing less than a reminder of a significant chapter in Icelandic history.

The name originates from a famous “episode” involving Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, a lawmaker of Þingvellir. He made the difficult decision to abandon paganism in favor of the new Christian religion in the year 1,000. According to the Icelandic Saga, this decision followed a very difficult and sleepless night. During this night, the Asatru priest, as a symbol of this change, cast the idols of the Norse Gods into the waterfall. From that moment onward, the waterfall acquired the name Goðafoss.

Reaching the waterfall is very easy. You can find it along the road between Akureyri and Husavik. There are plenty of road signs clearly indicating the location of the waterfall. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about getting lost. Goðafoss falls from a height of 12 meters and has a width of about 30 meters. If you are visiting during the summer season, you might also want to consider adding the nearby Dettifoss to your North Iceland itinerary.

6. Warm your afternoon in a Akureyi café.

Akureyri is the second-largest urban area in Iceland, following Reykjavik. It’s often referred to as the “Iceland’s capital of the North.” According to Icelandic sources, the area was colonized during the early Middle Ages by Norse populations. Today, this vibrant city is primarily known as a fishing and cultural centre.

The city is much quieter than Reykjavik, especially in the winter and spring, with fewer tourists and crowds. Akureyri is a fascinating place, with its vibrant colours and lively atmosphere.

The city offers many charming cafes where you can warm up after a day of exploring in the cold North Icelandic breeze. One of the nicest cafes we visited was Bláa Kannan Café , located on the main street of the city, offering a great selection of cakes and freshly baked bread.

We truly enjoyed our time in this cozy cafe, especially when the weather outside was too cold for extended outdoor exploration. One piece of advice: when ordering food, especially cakes, it’s a good idea to ask about the ingredients. Icelanders have unique tastes, and you may encounter some unusual food combinations!

7) Visit the Icelandic version of the Shire at Glaumbær

One of the highlights of our North Iceland itinerary was undoubtedly the isolated village of Glaumbær. The village is entirely constructed using the traditional turf-building technique. This has been used in Iceland since the time of the Vikings. While these houses were once inhabited by Icelanders, the entire area has now been turned into a museum.

Glaumbær dates back to the 18th century and is one of the best-preserved villages of its kind. In cold environments like Iceland, turf houses offered superior insulation compared to wooden structures, until modern architectural techniques were introduced.

It’s worth noting that until the early 20th century, many Icelanders lived in turf houses. However, with the advent of new technologies and improved insulation methods, turf houses gradually have been abandoned in favour of modern homes. Still, as you travel around Iceland, you can spot some of these characteristic buildings that are typical of the Icelandic landscape.

As a Tolkien enthusiast, I must admit I loved how this village resembled an Icelandic version of the Shire. The charming houses covered in grass and the vibrant colours set against the vast valley backdrop, felt like a scene from a Tolkien book.

Tips for visiting Glaumbær

Glaumbær operates as a museum, and there is an entrance fee if you visit in the morning. However, if you choose to visit in the late afternoon or at dusk (as we did), you can freely stroll around these charming houses without any issues. During our visit, we were the only ones there at that time.

Keep in mind that you won’t be able to enter inside the houses during the late afternoon visit. That privilege is reserved for morning visitors. However, if your main goal is to capture some beautiful photos and soak in the unique atmosphere, the late afternoon is likely the best time to do so.

Where to Stay in Northern Iceland

During our stay in Northern Iceland, we opted for two primary accommodations. On the first night, we booked one of the cube flats called Laxhús . This location is situated roughly 58.8 miles from Laxamyri and only 5 miles from Husavik.

Laxhús can be a bit on the pricey side compared to some other accommodations in Iceland, with a cost of about £170 or €200 per night. However, it offers excellent value for the price, providing all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. The well-equipped kitchen includes a cutlery set, microwave, plates, and a coffee machine. You also get your own private terrace, a TV, and a spacious bedroom. Not to mention, the stunning Icelandic views directly from your window are worth the expense. Additionally, we were fortunate enough to witness the Northern Lights during our stay here. If you can’t catch the aurora from your terrace, you’re free to use the open area behind the cube for stargazing.

On our second night in Northern Iceland, we chose to stay at Guest House 46 (formerly known as Guesthouse Höfðabraut) in Hvammstangi. The hosts, Steinbjörn and Eva-Lena, were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. Our room was on the smaller side but still cozy, and we enjoyed a fantastic view. Steinbjörn even prepared breakfast for all the guests in the morning. If you’re looking to connect with locals and experience an authentic Icelandic atmosphere, this is one of the best places to consider. Rates start at £65 per night for a double room.

Where to eat in North Iceland

Cooking at “home” during our North Iceland trip turned out to be a great choice. We found supermarkets in the cities of Akureyri, Húsavík, and Hvammstangi, which made it convenient to shop for groceries. Most Icelandic guesthouses are well-equipped for cooking, so we prepared our own dinners. Not only did we save more than 75% on our budget, but we also enjoyed the experience. Since many places outside of the major cities don’t have restaurants open at night, having a meal in the comfort of your accommodations is a practical and enjoyable option.

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North Iceland

North Iceland is home to many natural and cultural wonders, many of which are tied to Norse mythology and fascinating tidbits from Iceland’s rich history.

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Top attractions in North Iceland

Akureyri, the largest town outside of the greater Reykjavik area, is situated in...

Lake Mývatn

Mývatn is a shallow eutrophic lake situated in an area of active volcanism in the north...

The lush Ásbyrgi canyon is more than one kilometre wide and over three kilometres long,...

Goðafoss, ("Waterfall of the Gods“) is among the most beautiful falls in the country....

Mývatn Nature Baths

The North’s answer to the Blue Lagoon, the Mývatn Nature Baths are an ideal spot to stop...

Dimmuborgir

The natural stone labyrinth of Dimmuborgir is located to the east of Lake Mývatn. It is...

The most powerful waterfall in all of Europe, you’ll hear Dettifoss’ mighty rumble long...

If you like whales, Húsavík is the place to be. This fishing village of 2,300...

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Other attractions in North Iceland

Hljóðaklettar

The ‘echo rocks’ or Hljóðaklettar, are a collection of basalt columns lying in every...

The 10 km in diameter Krafla caldera is located along a 90 km long fissure zone in the...

The enormous tephra crater Hverfjall was formed in an explosive eruption some 2,500...

Skútustaðir

The Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters are located in the Lake Mývatn area. The craters...

The Herring Era Museum

The award-winning museum delivers visitors back to the times when a booming fishing...

Skagafjörður

Skagafjörður is one of the most historically famous districts in Iceland. Sometimes...

Glaumbær Folk Museum

Within Skagafjörður is the folk museum at Glaumbær, situated in an old traditional turf...

Grimsey is the northernmost inhabited part of Iceland, located forty kilometres north of...

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Reykjavík - The Capital

Reykjanes Peninsula

The Westfjords

The North of Iceland truly is a land of contrasts. Its long valleys and peninsulas are interspersed with mountains, lava fields and smooth hills carved out by rivers. The deep and numerous indentations in the coast of the North are at times lush with vegetation, at others barren. As one nears the Arctic Circle in the Northern latitudes, the midnight sun is invariably awe-inspiring.

Visit North Iceland is the official destination marketing and management organization for the northern part of Iceland. Find out more about the area on their website.

Stunning destinations of the North

Many towns of the North are dedicated to marine life. The Húsavík Whale Museum and the Seal Center in Hvammstangi are two options for visitors. Close by in the northern reaches of the Vatnajökull National Park is the impressive Ásbyrgi Canyon, as well as the Dettifoss Waterfall—the most powerful in Europe. The nearby Lake Mývatn and its surrounding wetlands has an exceptional variety of waterbirds and rock formations.

The North is home to Iceland's second largest urban area, Akureyri, located in Iceland's longest fjord, the mild-weathered Eyjafjörður. Akureyri, rich in culture and history, has a charming downtown full of late nineteenth century wooden houses. In summer, golfers can take advantage of the midnight sun at the Arctic Open. North Iceland is also home to many historic coastal towns.

TRAVEL THE ARCTIC COAST WAY

Travelling the Arctic Coast Way means leaving the common routes behind you and going off the beaten track to discover some of the most remote places in North Iceland; a unique adventure following 900 km of coastal roads close to the Arctic Circle.

Find out more at the official website of the  Arctic Coast Way

EXPERIENCE THE DIAMOND CIRCLE

The Diamond Circle can be described as a magnificent circuit of 250km in the Northeast of Iceland, which includes some of the most stunning sights and spots for unearthly landscapes.

The Diamond Circle has 5 key destinations which include the historical and picturesque Goðafoss, the unearthly blue and green landscapes of Lake Mývatn nature paradise, the uncontrollable white energy of Dettifoss the most powerful waterfall of Europe, the crescent-shaped wonder of Ásbyrgi canyon and Húsavík the buzzing whale watching capital of Iceland with the deep blue seas ahead.

Find out more at the official website of the  Diamond Circle.

These are only a few examples of the interesting sites that can be found all over North Iceland.

Rich in history

North Iceland is known for its rich history and the local tourism is culturally connected. There are several possibilities to see and visit ancient places associated with famous Icelanders.

North Iceland has many museums and information centers, many of which have received well-deserved attention domestically and abroad. Explore the museums of North Iceland

Find out more on VISIT NORTH ICELAND

Winter activities.

North Iceland is also the perfect destination for winter activities. View video below.

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Experience some of Iceland's amazing routes and destinations in the North.

Arctic Coast Way

An opportunity to get to know Iceland off the beaten path and experience life closest to the Ar...

The Diamond Circle

The backtracking is over. The highlights of the northeastern Iceland have, at last, been looped...

Minibreak North Iceland

Spiked with picturesque fishing villages, historical sites and experiences of nature, this sect...

Day in Dalvík

The fishing town sits nestled around a harbor, full of small and colorful fishing boats moored ...

To-Dos in Hvammstangi

Hvammstangi (pronounced: Kvamm-stown-gee) is the western starting point of the new tourist rout...

Island hopping Iceland

The image of Iceland is predominantly of a fairly large island in the middle of the North-Atlan...

Around Vatnsnes peninsula

Vatnsnes is either the starting or end point of the Arctic Coast Way, a scenic route along the ...

Day in Sauðárkrókur

On the rim of Skagafjörður, in Northwest Island, sits the region’s largest town: Sauðárkrókur, ...

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• 10 Things to Do in North Iceland

10 THINGS TO DO IN NORTH ICELAND

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Already soaked in the Blue Lagoon and drove through the South Coast? Go North! North Iceland is charming, unique and filled with fascinating attractions and wildlife.

Already soaked in the   Blue Lagoon   and drove through the   South Coast ? Go North! North Iceland is charming, unique and filled with fascinating attractions and wildlife. Get inspired, create your own Northern Iceland itinerary and have the adventure of a lifetime.

Here’s a list of the   best things to do in North Iceland :

1. Visit the Arctic Henge

The Arctic Henge is an enormous stone sculpture in the northeastern village   Raufarhöfn . It’s currently under construction and is intended to be a symbol of Nordic paganism in Iceland.

The Arctic Henge project started in 1996. Essentially it’s a sundial, which will capture the midnight sun perfectly in the aligned gateways.

Heimskautsgerðið   (The Arctic Henge) was inspired by the old Eddic poem Völuspá (Prophecy of the Seeress). The 72 small blocks of rock, each inscribed with their own dwarven name, represent the 72 weeks of the year. The rocks circle 4 bigger stone monuments, formed as an arch, which then circle one massive basalt column.

You can enjoy some solitude at the   Arctic Henge as it is yet to be discovered by the masses.

The mystical arctic henge in Raufarhofn in Iceland

How to get to the Arctic Henge?

Take Road 85 (Hófaskarðsleið) from the northern part of the Ring Road, then take Nordausturvegur Road and drive further up north. After 13mi (21 km) you should reach   Raufarhöfn . 

When can I go to Arctic Henge?

All year round. If you’re going there in the winter, beware of the road closures and weather conditions.

2. Explore Askja Area

For lunar-like landscapes and solitude, head to   Askja . Located in the northern Icelandic Highlands, Askja is a volcanic caldera with three geothermal crater lakes:   Askja Lake,   Öskjuvatn Lake , and   Viti Volcano Lake . It’s a breathtaking area, dwarfed by the high peaks of   Dyngjufjoll (Dragon) Mountains   and dotted with turquoise lakes. 

Hikers looking at Geothermal crater lake near the Askja volcano

Due to its otherworldly scenery, the Askja area was one of the main sites NASA used to train pilots before the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.

When can I go to Askja?

Due to unpredictable Icelandic weather, the Askja area is mostly accessible during the summer months. Before heading to bathe in Viti Lake, visit the visitor center. 

Oskjuvatn lake at Askja, Iceland

How to get to Askja?

To get to Askja, you’ll need a proper 4×4 vehicle. Make sure your 4WD will be able to cross at least two rivers. The easiest way to get to Askja Lake is by driving the   Ring Road   past   Akureyri and Myvatn . Get off the Ring Road onto Road 901 and turn right onto the F910. Drive for approximately 13 mi (21 km), take Road F910 and drive further for 38 mi (62 km). At the end of the road, you will see the visitor center and campsites.

3. Soak in Beer Spa

Soak in a warm beer bath – a unique experience that pretty much sums up the Icelandic way of living. Located not far from Dalvik,   Bjorbodin Beer Spa   combines young beer body treatment with a relaxing soak. The beer in the tub is undrinkable so there’s no age limit. Next to the tub you’ll find a draft with Icelanders’ favorite beer, Kaldi. 

Beer bathtubs are made of   Kambala wood   and filled with young beer, water, hops, live beer yeast, beer oil, beer, salt, and water. The contents of the bath are high in potassium, protein, iron, magnesium, and zink, which will revitalize your skin and hair. Note, it’s recommended not to shower for at least 4 hours after the soak.

When can I go to the beer spa?

North Iceland’s Beer Spa is one of the best Northern Iceland attractions and is available all year round.

How to get to Bjorbodin Beer Spa?

The Beer Spa is located in   Árskógssandur , a small community on the shores of Eyjafjörður Fiord between   Dalvik   and   Akureyri . You can get there by taking Road 82 on the northern part of the Ring Road. Head North for about 14 mi (24 km).

4. Feel the magic of Myvatn Area

Myvatn combines all the natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Deserted craters, hot spring caves, and lofty lava formations are just a few highlights found in this microcosm.

The crown jewel of the area is   Lake Myvatn . This shallow lake is surrounded by high geothermal activity. Nestled among towering lava formations, the lake is the North’s answer to the Blue Lagoon. While you’re there, visit   Hverir Geothermal Area   and watch the ground melt away into hot mud puddles or feel the strength of   Dettifoss , Europe’s second most powerful waterfall.

Cap your day off with a hike up the   Hverfell Crater Mountain , a tuff ring volcano, or   Skutustadagigar Pseudocraters , a conservation area to the south of Lake Myvatn.

When can I go to Lake Myvatn?

The area around Lake Myvatn is open all year round. However, due to adverse winter conditions, some roads might be closed. 

How to get to Lake Myvatn?

Lake Myvatn is located next to   Reykjahlid , which is right on the   Ring Road . 

5. Voyage to Grimsey Island

If you’re looking to tick the   Arctic Circle   off your bucket list, then a voyage to Grimsey is perfect! Grimsey Island is located 25 mi (40 km) off the northern shores of Iceland and straddles the Arctic Circle. 

North Atlantic puffins sitting in front of orange lighthouse in Iceland

Home to more birds than people, Grimsey Island has a lot more to offer than just the Arctic Circle crossing. During summer, the   Midnight Sun   creates the perfect backdrop for nature and wildlife photography. While in the winter, the sky is colored with dancing flares from the   Northern Lights . Grimsey is one of the top destinations to watch the Northern Lights. 

Here you can also visit an 800-year-old church, try local cuisine, go for a swim in a newly built pool and visit the all-in-one school, library, and community center.

Lonely church and puffins at the cost of Grimsey island

A great variety of birds call Grimsey their home. Nearly all main birds that visit Iceland during the year can be found on the island. Some of the most popular ones include black-legged kittiwake, northern fulmar, Atlantic puffin, razorbill, and the black guillemot. Grimsey has one of the biggest tern nesting sites and   one of the largest puffin colonies in Iceland.

When can I go to Grimsey Island?

All year round. The guesthouse on the island is open throughout the year so you can visit anytime you want. Keep in mind though, Grimsey is a remote island with a northern climate so be prepared if you decide to go there during the winter.

How to get to Grimsey Island?

Take a ferry from   Dalvik   or a plane from   Akureyri . The ferry to Grimsey Island leaves three times a week all year round and flights from Akureyri are scheduled three times a week during winter and seven times a week during the summer. 

6. Whale watching in Dalvik

An authentic fishing village,   Dalvik   is Iceland’s whale watching capital. The village is located in   Trollaskagi Peninsula , right on the shores of the North Atlantic Ocean which is home to a variety of whales during the summer. Hop on a boat and sail out into the ocean in search of these gentle giants on our   whale watching tour from Dalvik . Our guides are experts in seeking out whale hiding spots with a 98% success rate. 

Iceland, Dalvik – watching crazy humpback whale

Besides whale watching, Dalvik is full of things to do for every adventurous soul. For one, this fishing village is home to the best alpine skiing in Iceland. Also, a great variety of hiking trails with views of the Trollaskagi Peninsula are available to you. 

When can I go whale watching in Dalvik?

The biggest success rate of whale sightings in Dalvik is during the summer months.

How can I get to Dalvik?

Take Road 82 off the Northern part of the Ring Road and drive for approximately 20 mi (33 km). If whale watching is a must, check the 5-Day North and West Iceland Tour which combines the best activities within these areas. A multi-day tour organises all the accommodation and transport, so you can sit back and enjoy the journey to your next activity.

7. A self-drive tour of the Arctic Coast Way

Looking for a true taste of Iceland? Go off the beaten path and discover Iceland’s hidden gems on a self-drive adventure of the   Arctic Coast Way . The road takes you through   18 geothermal pools ,   16 charming fishing villages ,   6 islands , and many attractions unique to North Iceland. Visit the most remote areas in Northern Iceland and seek out wildlife that call the Arctic their home.

The Arctic Coast Way is around 560-mi (900-km) long and can be driven in winter and summer. Both seasons will grant you with seasonal and unique Iceland adventures. During the summer, you will be rewarded with 24 hour days as the   Midnight Sun   never sets. During the winter, you’ll be able to watch   Northern Lights   dance across the Arctic sky form the best locations in the world.

Book our   self-drive Arctic Coast   tour and see the best that Northern Iceland has to offer.

When can I drive the Arctic Coastway?

All year round. However, keep in mind that winter in North Iceland can be harsh and it might take you longer than usual to reach certain sites. 

Scenic view of the historic town of Husavik

How to get to the Arctic Coastway?

If you choose to start your journey from the West –    Hvammstangi   is your starting point. If you choose to experience the Arctic Coastway from the East,   Bakkafjordur   is your starting point. 

8. Experience the Power of Dettifoss

Every waterfall hunter should add   Dettifoss   to their list, it’s a must-see in North Iceland. Dettifoss, the second most powerful waterfall in Europe is known for its size rather than beauty. The waterfall is 330 ft (100 m) wide and drops a whopping 144 ft (44 m). The sheer size of it is what will leave you stunned. Surprisingly, for such a vast waterfall, you won’t hear the cascading water until you get really close to it. 

Iceland waterfall – Dettifoss

To explore the waterfall will take you around 2 to 3 hours. Once you’re done, go on a 21-mi (34-km) long hiking trail. The trail will take you above and around the waterfall, and straight into   Asbyrgi Canyon   where you can further enjoy the Icelandic landscape.

When can I visit Dettifoss?

It’s best to visit the waterfall during the summer. In summer months, the waterfall is at its mightiest, rewarding you with the water show of a lifetime. During winter, you’ll have very little daylight and slippery approach to the waterfall, which can be dangerous. 

How to get to Dettifoss?

Turn onto Road 864 from the northern part of the Ring Road and head North for about 19 mi (32 km). 

9. Find the oldest turf church, Grafarkirkja

Grafarkirkja, the oldest church in Iceland, is located on the western shore of the   Trollaskagi Peninsula . Built in the 17th century the church is also one of the very few in Iceland that has been embellished. It is said that a carver by the name of   Guðmundur Guðmundsson   built the church on the remains of an even older church.

Grafarkirkja, the oldest church in Iceland

The church was deconsecrated not long after Guðmundur built it and used as a tool shed for quite some time. Surprisingly, the turf oratory remained in good condition and was easy to renovate for the   National Museum of Iceland   in the 1950s.

When can I visit Grafarkirkja Church?

All year round. As with other attractions in the North, it’s possible that you won’t be able to access the church due to adverse weather conditions during the winter months. 

How can I get to the church?

Take road 76 just off the northern part of the Ring Road and head towards the small town of   Hofsos .

10. Visit Hvitserkur Sea Stack

Looking for what to see in North Iceland? A truly unique attraction in North Iceland is the   Hvitserkur Sea Stack . The sea stack is located off the shores of the   Vatnsnes Peninsula   and is 49 ft (15 m) high. The monolith formation looks like an elephant or a dragon drinking water and is home to a variety of seabirds. 

Top places of Iceland – Hvítserkur

Legend has it that   the sea stack   was once a scarred troll, who was on his way to Þingeyraklaustur Convent from Strandir. Iceland’s trolls are not Christian, so Hvitserkur was on a mission to tear down the bells of the convent. He wasn’t fast enough and as the sun was rising, he turned into this charming monolith stack. 

The sea stack was getting worn with each wave of the North Atlantic Ocean and would’ve collapsed soon. Locals of the area wanted to save Hvitserkur so they all pitched in and got the base of the stack reinforced with concrete.

When can I see Hvitserkur Sea Stack?

All year round. In winter, beware of the possible road closures.

How to get to the Hvitserkur Sea Stack?

Take Road 711 from the northern part of the Ring Road and drive North for around 18 mi (30 km).

Fallen in love with North Iceland?   Book our   11-Day Self-Drive Tour on Iceland’s Arctic Coastway   and do all the things in North Iceland listed above! Or if you're a little more limited on time, see where our day tours could take you.

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Godafoss, Mývatn and Askja Volcano Tour

The North of Iceland is a whole new planet to discover. The Volcanic activity, the colorful mountains, and dramatic mountains make the most beautiful landscapes which Kay visited on the Goðafoss, Mývatn and Askja Volcano tour. Here she tell...

Iceland is the puffin watching capital of the world. Bird watchers and scientists from all over the globe come to Iceland to see this interesting species for themselves. Thanks to their incredibly cute and funny appearance, puffin watching ...

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What to see and do in northern Iceland

Many visitors to Iceland fly into Reykjavik, do the Golden Circle tour and stick around the southwestern corner of the country. And, indeed if you’re only here for a few days, there’s more than enough to see and do in this region to fill a short trip. But, if you do have a little longer, you may well want to venture further afield than the capital and its surroundings and head out into the wilds to explore the little-visited region of northern Iceland.

So, first things first: is northern Iceland worth visiting? Well, if you like snow-capped mountains, fjords dotted with tiny fishing villages, gushing waterfalls, thermal hot pools, great hikes and miles and miles of awe-inspiring scenery – then yes, it certainly is.

With its indented coastline, undulating rural landscapes, lakes, gorges and volcanic craters, many people consider the north to be the most beautiful part of Iceland.

It’s also the closest part of the country to the Arctic Circle – and with a very small population and few settlements to cause light pollution, northern Iceland is a great place to see the northern lights. From late-September to late-March, you’ve got a good chance of catching this amazing light show in the north.

There’s no shortage of nature and history to explore in this beautiful region, so we’ve picked some of the best things to see and do in northern Iceland.

Check out the waterfalls

Claiming to be Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettisfoss certainly is an impressive sight, with 500 cubic metres of water plunging over its edge every second. Fed by meltwater from Europe’s largest glacier, it’s about 100m wide and the water thunders down some 50m when it’s in full spate.

You can get there along a beautiful 34km hiking path which runs alongside a canyon in the Vatnajökull National Park – or, if you’re visiting in summer, simply drive there. In winter the road is often unpassable, though, and you’ll definitely need a 4WD.

And if that’s not enough thundering water for you, Goðafoss (meaning “waterfall of the Gods”) is another spectacular horseshoe-shaped waterfall in northern Iceland. Fed by Iceland’s fourth largest river, Goðafoss is easily visited all year-round – though again you’ll need a 4WD in winter.

If you don’t like the idea of driving yourself, there’s the option of a private jeep tour that will take you to both Dettifoss and Goðafoss waterfalls.

Visit the hot pots at Hverir

The Hverir geothermal area is an other-worldly region of bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles. Cracks and fissures criss-cross the orangey-red landscape, belching out steam and a potent smell of sulphur. Watch where you step – and be prepared for the smell!

Drive the Arctic Coast Way

One of the best ways of exploring northern Iceland is to drive the Arctic Coast Way . This 900km route winds along the fjords of the northern coast from Hvammstangi to Bakkafjörður, passing pretty fishing villages, sandy beaches, craggy inlets and dramatic basalt rock formations.

You can stop off en route to go hiking, seal-spotting, whale-watching, horse-riding, bathing in hot pools and even Arctic surfing. And because the route is so close to the Arctic Circle, you get great views of the midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in winter.

Enjoy the bright lights of Akureyi

And if all this wilderness and nature is getting to you, you may want to explore the town of Akureyi, which sits in a picturesque location at the bottom of the Eyjafjörður, one of Iceland’s longest fjords.

It may be Iceland’s second largest city, but with a population of just 20,000 it’s a laid-back, low-key place that makes a good base from which to explore the rest of northern Iceland. It’s a five-hour drive from Reykjavik, with direct international flights from some European cities, including London, at certain times of the year.

Visit the volcanic Lake Mývatn

Check out the beautiful Lake Mývatn surrounded by volcanic landscapes and home to a huge variety of birdlife, including geese, owls, ptarmigan, gulls, ducks and snipe. Look out over the lake from the Mývatn Nature baths, where you can swim in natural mineral-rich waters of around 36–40C – or simply lie back in the warmth and admire the views.

Have a beer spa

If it’s not enough to bathe in natural mineral waters, Bjórböðin , on the western side of the Eyjafjörður, has wooden tubs where you can lie back in a bath filled with beer. The mixture of beer, yeast, hops and water is rich in vitamin B and antioxidants, and relaxing in it is supposed to be good for the skin and hair.

You can’t drink the bath water, but each tub comes with own private draught beer pump, where you can help yourself to a brew. And, you can always take a dip in the outside hot tubs afterwards – though these are just filled with plain water!

Go whale-watching in Husavik

The north coast town of Husavik is known as Europe’s whale-watching capital – and indeed, there are plenty of boat trips leaving from here on whale safaris.

The waters around Husavik are rich in sea mammals, with minke whales, harbour porpoises and dolphins often seen, while migrating humpback whales visit these waters too at certain times of the year. This whale safari cruises round Skjálfandi Bay on a traditional wooden Icelandic fishing boat in search of whales, dolphins and sea birds.

Get “Trapped” in Siglufjörður

Fans of Icelandic crime drama Trapped will want to visit the pretty coastal town of Siglufjörður, tucked alongside a long fjord overlooked by glowering mountains. You can even stay here in the upmarket Siglo Hotel , which featured prominently in scenes from the drama.

See also: The best boat tours and cruises from Reykjavik 10 of the best Airbnbs in Iceland Alternatives to the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

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• Jul 7, 2023

Top 13 Things To Do in Northern Iceland: Full Itinerary + Map

Do you want to explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Northern Iceland ? Then look no further! Discover Northern Iceland's iconic attractions, such as the basalt columns at Dimmuborgir, or unearth hidden gems like Mývatn Nature Baths.

This guide unveils the best things to do in Northern Iceland . With a full itinerary and Map, all that's left is for you to pack your bags and start exploring this breathtaking region! So read on if you're looking for an unforgettable experience in one of Europe's most unique destinations.

The Best Things To Do in North Iceland

Iceland's north coast has plenty of hidden gems for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers. From glacier lagoons to thermal hot springs, the region offers an array of unique attractions and activities that will make your trip unforgettable.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed getaway, Northern Iceland has something for everyone! From surfing and whale watching in northern Iceland to snowmobiling and dog sledding, here are some of the best north Iceland attractions.

1. Go Whale Watching in Northern Iceland

To experience the beauty of Iceland's animals , head out on a whale-watching tour . The waters around Northern Iceland are teeming with:

Humpback whales

From the comfort of a boat, you can watch these majestic creatures splash and play in the sea. Whale watching in northern Iceland is a one-of-a-kind experience and a must-do activity in the region.

2. Experience the Thrill of Extreme Sports

Experience the thrill of extreme sports in Northern Iceland , where the stunning landscapes offer endless possibilities for adventure. From glacier climbing to ice caving , these heart-pounding activities are among the top things to do in Northern Iceland. Push your limits and immerse yourself in the raw and captivating beauty of this remarkable region.

3. Observe Charming Puffins Up Close

If you're wondering what to see in northern Iceland, make sure to add puffins in Iceland to your list. These charming birds are a common sight along the north coast of Iceland. Visit one of the region's puffin colonies to see these feathered friends up close. It's a great chance to appreciate the wildlife of this remarkable country and snap some beautiful photos.

4. Enjoy Hiking in Northern Iceland

Discover the beauty of Northern Iceland through hiking. Explore diverse terrains, from cascading waterfalls to rugged lava fields. Hiking in Northern Iceland offers breathtaking landscapes and a sense of tranquility , rejuvenating the soul with every step taken in this outdoor paradise. Hiking in Iceland is an activity that should not be missed!

5. Catch the Waves and Surf in the North Atlantic

Engage in thrilling activities in North Iceland by catching the waves and experiencing the exhilaration of surfing in Iceland . With its wild coastline and challenging swells, North Iceland offers surfers an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a beginner or an expert surfer, surfing in northern Iceland is something you won't want to miss.

6. Take a Dog Sledding Tour in Iceland

One of the best things to do in northern Iceland is to take a dog sledding tour . The sleds are pulled by Siberian Huskies , whose friendly and cheerful personalities make the tour even more special. This traditional form of transportation offers a unique way to explore the icy terrain of Northern Iceland. Dog sledding in Iceland is the perfect tour for adventure seekers and dog lovers alike!

7. Speed Across Snowfields and Glaciers on a Snowmobile

Experience the excitement of snowmobiling in Iceland , where you can speed across snowfields and glaciers. It's one of the must-try things to do in north Iceland, providing thrilling adventure and stunning scenery.

Discover the beauty of this region on a snowmobile tour of Lake Mývatn and the surrounding area. The tour is very popular, and bookings are highly recommended.

8. Camp in Scenic Locations Amidst Iceland's Untouched Nature

Immerse yourself in the untouched nature of northern Iceland by camping amidst its scenic landscapes. It's a perfect choice when deciding what to do in northern Iceland, offering a unique connection with the environment.

Set up camp in picturesque locations such as the Dettifoss Waterfall or Lake Mývatn . Enjoy breathtaking views and peaceful tranquility in these awe-inspiring places. Camping in Iceland is a must-do activity for outdoor enthusiasts.

9. Take a Dip in Mývatn Nature Baths

Indulge in relaxation at Mývatn Nature Baths, a must-visit Iceland spa and one of the top places to visit in North Iceland. Immerse yourself in the soothing geothermal waters, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. This tranquil oasis offers a rejuvenating experience, providing the perfect escape amidst the natural wonders of the region.

10. Ski in Iceland's Mountainous Terrain

Experience the thrill of skiing in Northern Iceland, a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Hit the slopes of Mt. Akureyri and enjoy the adrenaline rush while surrounded by breathtaking northern Iceland attractions. Skiing in Iceland offers a unique combination of adventure and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable winter experience.

11. Enjoy Vibrant Music Festivals in Northern Iceland

Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene of Northern Iceland by attending thrilling Iceland music festivals , one of the top things to do in Northern Iceland.

The Aldrei Fór Eg Suður Rock Music Festival is held annually in Ísafjörður, a town located in the Westfjords region of Northern Iceland. This festival celebrates Icelandic rock music and has been running since 2004.

12. Fish in Abundant Rivers and Lakes in Northern Iceland

Enjoy the thrill of fishing in Northern Iceland's abundant rivers and lakes, regardless of the weather in Northern Iceland. With its pristine waterways, the region offers a haven for anglers. Cast your line amidst stunning landscapes and embrace the tranquility of nature while indulging in the rewarding experience of fishing in Iceland .

13. Marvel at Basalt Columns in Iceland's Unique Geological Formations

The basalt columns in northern Iceland are among the most fascinating things to see in northern Iceland. These unique geological formations , formed by lava cooling and hardening into hexagonal shapes, can be found throughout the region. From the iconic Dimmuborgir to the dramatic Godafoss waterfall, visitors can marvel at these natural wonders.

Northern Iceland Itinerary: Experience the Best of Northern Iceland in 5 Days

If you're looking for things to see in north Iceland, this 5-day northern Iceland itinerary is perfect for exploring the best of this captivating region. Not only will you experience the best of Iceland's wonders, but you will also take part in thrilling activities and embrace the culture of this unique area. So if you're ready, here is what you can explore in North Iceland!

Day 1: Go Whale Watching off the Coast of North Iceland

Start your journey in Husavik, one of the best towns to visit in northern Iceland. Husavik is a seaside town known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland.

Take a whale-watching tour and see these majestic creatures up close. Whale watching in northern Iceland is an activity you won't want to miss! In the afternoon, head to Dettifoss Waterfall for an incredible view of the largest waterfall in Europe.

End your day by camping near the picturesque Mývatn Nature Baths. We also recommend sleeping at Húsavík Green Hostel , one of the best hostels in this part of Iceland.

Driving Distance: 147 km/91 mi

Travel Time: 2 Hours

Day 2: Explore the Lake Mývatn Region and Take a Dog Sledding Tour

Spend your second day in the Mývatn area, one of the top places to visit in North Iceland. Start by taking a dog sledding tour and exploring the icy terrain.

In the afternoon, visit Dimmuborgir and marvel at its impressive basalt columns. This is a north Iceland must-see and the perfect place to take photos. Then, head to Námafjall, known for its bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles.

Afterward, relax in the Mývatn Nature Baths and enjoy its therapeutic waters. For accommodation, we recommend staying at one of the hotels in Akureyri or one of the cottages near Lake Mývatn.

Driving Distance: 114 km/71 mi

Travel Time: 1 Hour 40 Minutes

Day 3: Go Snowmobiling on Glaciers and Skiing in Mt. Akureyri

Explore the snow-covered terrain of northern Iceland and go snowmobiling on the glaciers. Spend your afternoon skiing in Mt. Súlur and take breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Next, head to the capital of north Iceland, Akureyri. This charming town is known for its quaint buildings and vibrant music scene. Before you end your day, make sure to visit the Akureyri Church and explore its vibrant artwork.

Stay at one of the hotels in Akureyri or book a camping spot at Hlíð Camping and Guesthouse near Lake Mývatn on the Icelandic ring road .

Driving Distance: 27 km/17 mi

Travel Time: 31 Minutes

Day 4: Fish in Abundant Rivers and Lakes and Visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden

Spend the day fishing for salmon and sea trout in the Húseyjarkvísl River or the plentiful lakes of North Iceland. Take in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the stunning views.

In the afternoon, visit Akureyri Botanical Garden and marvel at its exotic plants. This lush oasis, located in the heart of Akureyri, is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and admire the colorful flowers.

For accommodation, we recommend staying at Hótel Akureyri or one of the hotels in Akureyri.

Driving Distance: 95 km/59 mi

Travel Time: 1 Hour 10 Minutes

Day 5: Visit the Westfjords and Attend A Music Festival

On your last day, drive to the Westfjords region and experience the beauty of this isolated part of Iceland. If you're going to Iceland during Easter, make sure to attend the Aldrei Fór Eg Suður Music Festival in Ísafjörður, a town located in the middle of the Westfjords. This festival celebrates Icelandic rock music and has been running since 2004.

In the afternoon, explore Latrabjarg Bird Cliffs , located on Iceland's westernmost tip. This is one of the best north Iceland attractions and a great place to view puffins and other seabirds. Afterward, relax at the Gjögur swimming pool and enjoy its natural hot springs.

We recommend staying at one of the hostels in Ísafjörður or opting for a cabin in Isafjordur, which is close to the festival.

Driving Distance: 389 km/241 mi

Travel Time: 6 Hours

A Captivating Escape: Discover the Beauty of Northern Iceland

Northern Iceland offers a captivating escape where natural beauty reigns supreme. From stunning waterfalls and geothermal hot springs to otherworldly landscapes and charming coastal towns, this region is a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

To make the most of your journey and explore the hidden gems that Northern Iceland has to offer, we highly recommend renting a car. With the freedom to chart your own course, you can effortlessly navigate the rugged terrain, discover remote locations, and immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness.

Renting a car in Iceland will unlock a world of possibilities, allowing you to create unforgettable memories as you uncover the breathtaking beauty of Northern Iceland.

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20 Awesome Things to Do in North Iceland

• Iceland , Scandinavia
• Updated: February 12, 2024

The best things to see and do in North Iceland

I’m sure you’ve heard about Iceland’s otherworldly landscape, but nothing prepares you for just how diverse and surreal it is, especially in North Iceland.

If you’re going to the North, chances are you’ve already explored the South Coast , and whilst you’ll agree, it’s absolutely mind-blowing, so much more awaits you in the North.

What’s more, it receives a lot less tourism, so you might just have many of these natural wonders to yourself! 

Accommodation in North Iceland

If you have a car I recommend staying in Mývatn, where nature is truly on your doorstep. I thought Hotel Laxa was the best in the area. You might also want to look at cabin accommodation, I saw quite a few but I’ve not personally stayed in any myself so I’m not able to make a sound recommendation.

Alternatively, if you don’t have a car, I recommend staying in Akureyri, the ‘Capital of the North’. Here, you can pick from a variety of restaurants and excursion companies to get the most out of your time in North Iceland.

I would suggest staying at  Berjaya Iceland Hotel  in Akureyri. But if you’re on a budget, you can browse and book more hotels here . 

1. See Goðafoss – waterfall of the Gods

2. visit dettifoss – europe’s most powerful waterfall.

To experience the wrath of Mother Nature go to Dettifoss. Believed to be the most powerful waterfall in the whole of Europe with a colossal 500 cubic meters of water falling each second! So powerful, you can feel the ground shake as you get closer and hear the velocity of water crashing into an earth-shattering abyss. Easily one of Iceland’s most extraordinary natural attractions, Dettifoss was famously immortalised in the opening scene of Ridley Scott’s 2012 film, Prometheus.

3. See the Rock Formations at Dimmuborgir

A world of its own; a park filled with bizarre lava formations. Dimmuborgir has inspired much Icelandic folklore, it is believed this is where the earth connects with the infernal regions. If there’s one place where you’re going to believe elves exist, it’s going to be here!

4. Hverir Geothermal Area

There’s a high chance that you’ll smell this place before you even see it, for this is a high temperature geothermal area emitting a strong bouquet of rotten eggs! You’ll be amazed at huge bubbling mud pools, fumaroles and sticky red soil. This is easily one of my favourite places in North Iceland.

Read more: Hverir Geothermal Area in North Iceland

5. hike up hverfell.

This volcano can be seen from miles away: broad, conical, black and shaped in a cone. Hverfell demands attention in an otherwise flat landscape.  Formed around 2500 years ago when Hverfell erupted over the Myvatn region, you have the opportunity to take the short hike to the top of the crater for 360 degree views of the surrounding area.

6. Climb inside Grjótagjá lava cave

7. viti crater.

Icelanders have a favourite word for gaping craters that blast out millions of tons of volcanic debris – víti, meaning hell. Translating to Hell’s crater, this explosion crater formed in 1734 by a massive eruption in the Krafla volcano. It became known as Myvatnseldar and lasted for five years.

8. Explore the Skutustadir pseudo craters

Iceland is often compared to Mars and this is one reason why. Scientific interest in these pseudo craters increased after the discovery of the Athabasca Valles region of Mars, where lava flows superheated groundwater in the underlying rocks. These pseudo craters are among the largest and most beautifully shaped on Earth making here an ideal setting for some scenic hiking, but you’ll also be joined by midges that feed from the lake – you’ve been warned!

9. Soak in Myvatn Nature Baths

Imagine the Blue Lagoon on a smaller scale and with only a fraction of the people (and price) and Myvatn Nature Baths will come to mind. After a day of hiking up volcanoes and traversing lava fields you’ll deserve it.

10. See basalt rocks at Hofsos

This tiny fishing port with a population of only 200 people is home to stunning coastal views. Most visitors come here to soak in a pool overlooking the ocean, but the real attraction is the huge expanse of basalt columns stretching all along the coastline. Surprisingly, very little has been written about these basalt columns so I want to get the message out – don’t miss this natural wonder!

Read more: Geology Rocks! Basalt Columns in Iceland

11. grettislaug hot pool.

Nearby Hofsos you’ll discover Gettislaug hot pools which overlooks a huge fjord. Now located on private land, there’s an entrance fee of approx £3.50 and you can soak in the hot pools for as long as you like. They are several pools to jump between and there’s a very good chance of having this place to yourself when you’re travelling out of season.

12. The Pretty Fishing Village of Siglufjordur

The small yet perfectly formed village of Siglufjordur was once nicknamed ‘Herring Town’ due to its abundance of herring which made the water look silver. The golden age of herring lasted just over 100 years, from 1867 to 1968, leading to an economic boom which Siglufjordrur was at the centre of. Once upon a time, the herring from this one town alone provided more than 20% of the country’s total export income.

Though there is no longer any herring, its heritage has been wonderfully preserved at the Herring Museum, complete with herring boats, factory and live re-enactments.

A new addition to the village is Siglo Hotel . It is stunning 4-star hotel located in the heart of the town and boasts spectacular panoramic view of the mountains and fjord. I spent the night here and didn’t want to leave because it’s easily one of the best hotels in the whole of Iceland.

13. Akureyri – the ‘Capital of the North’

Iceland’s largest town outside of the Reykjavik area is dubbed the ‘capital of the North’ and is home to a modest 14,000 residents. On the edge of a fjord, Akureyri has a handful of decent restaurants, cafés, shops and museums. Akureyri is also North Iceland’s tourist hub, with the best selection of hotels and tour companies offering day tours and adventure trips of the surrounding area. If I’d more time I definitely would have gone on a Whale Safari Tour . This region is famous for spotting them.

The city’s most striking landmark (like Reykjavik) is its cathedral which sits on top a set of steep steps, from where you can enjoy great views across the town and the fjord.

If you’re a fan of street art, you’ll be able to find this huge mural on the main the high street in Akureyri, North Iceland.

14. Hvitserkur – The Drinking Dragon

 © Wikipedia Commons

On Vatnsnes in Húnafjörður an awesome rock formation called Hvítserkur. It is a 15 m high monolith eroded into a strange formation which most people think looks like a drinking dragon, though legend has it Hvítserkur was a troll caught by the sunrise while attempting to destroy the Christian monastery at Þingeyrar.

15. Lofthellir Ice Cave

Want to know what it looks like inside an ice cave? Regrettably I’ve not done this tour so I can’t personally vouch for it, but the tour with Saga Travel gets excellent reviews.

16. Whale Watching at Húsavik

It’s not surprising that Húsavik has become Europe’s whale watching capital: Minke whales are seen on most boat trips in Skjalfandi Bay, while harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins are also common. Humpback whales are also regular visitors and there have even been close encounters with blue whales but you’d be considered very lucky to see one.

The harbour side Whale Museum has an interesting collection of artefacts and skeletons and is well worth a visit. If you’re staying in Akureyri, you can book beforehand here and the trip takes you all around this region.

17. Dalvik and Grimsey Island

North of Akureyri, the vibrant fishing port of Dalvik is the departure point for ferries to Grimsey Island. Straddling the Arctic Circle 40km off Iceland’s north coast, this lonely fishing outpost is barely five square kilometres in area. Guided walks reveal the island’s history and birdlife, and you can also hire bikes and bask in the midnight sun during summer.

18. Bathe in Hell at Askja

© Wikipedia Commons

Getting to this famous caldera you’ll need to venture further south than everywhere else on this list of things to do in North Iceland, but it’s achievable after a couple of hours negotiating the vast ash, sand and lava desert of the island’s core. Interestingly, the area was used during training for the Apollo program to prepare astronauts for the lunar missions. Their main objective in Askja was to study geology but nowadays most people come here to swim in the tepid, stinking water of this huge caldera – how times change!

19. Aldeyjarfoss

Located in the Highlands, Aldeyjarfoss is a little out of the way to reach, and probably requires a 4×4, but it’s definitely one of Iceland’s most unique waterfalls . If you want something off the beaten track, and also have a penchant for basalt rock, then this waterfall will deliver that and more!

20. Turf houses at Glaumbær

These gorgeous little turf houses at Glaumbær now operate as a museum. They are a great way in seeing how the past used to live. Made from peat it might seem primitive but this kind of cladding retains a lot of warmth, which is something the Icelanders didn’t have much of before they tapped into geothermal energy! Plus, just look how photogenic they are – you’ve simply gotta go.

20 Awesome Things to do in South Iceland

Need more inspiration.

This   2-week Iceland itinerary is packed with information and tips to help you plan.

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Hi, I'm Shing

Welcome to The Culture Map, a place where I share my travel guides, adventurous tales, and capture the inspiring diversity of our world.

11 Responses

Whenever you write about Iceland, you give me wunderlust Shing! I’ve been to Iceland twice, but never made North. I guess that’s what my third trip is for!

I have a couple of questions: What month did you go? The weather still looks really nice… Can you recommend a hotel in Akureyri? Do you think a week is long enough to see the North and the Westfjords?

Haha, when I write about Iceland I give myself wunderlust too Andy! And since I’m not travelling as much at the moment I’m not quite sure that’s a good thing 😉

Onto your questions: 1. I went in September and I really recommend this time of the month – less crowds, weather still good, and there’s a chance you might see the Northern Lights too. Win-win! 2. Depends what your budget is, if you have spare cash then I would recommend the Icelandair Hotel or Hotel Kea (Kea Hotel is a bit closer to the centre, but the Icelandair Hotel is a bit nicer… weigh up your priority I guess!) and , if you’re on more of a budget then Nordurland Hotel is ok as well, though I still think quite pricey (I guess we are in Iceland). Perhaps you could try Airbnb, but I’ve not used any in Akureyri so I can’t give you any leads I’m afraid. Also, if you have a car you could consider staying outside the town centre and see how the prices compare… 3. It’s a long drive but you can do it! I’ve not been to the Westfjords (yet) but if I had a week in the North I would try my best to get there. Maybe spend 4 nights in the North and then 3 nights in the Westfjords?

Hope this helps and have a fabulous trip!

what a lovely places i cant explain the beauty of this places north Iceland is like a heaven on this earth thanks for sharing this wonderful post ….. nice images

Long lost reader here… Can’t believe it’s that long ago already… Nice to see my Lofthellir pics on your site and I even got an honourable mentioning 🙂 This is a pretty good list Shing, as always very well done! I have to admit that even I who own a couple of properties here in North of Iceland, have not been to all the places on your list, so these recommendations are most certainly well worth it. Unfortunately this year even in September, the area of Myvatn is overrun by hordes of tourists. Mass tourism has now also officially started up here. Well at least we still got winter for ourselves, though I am afraid that might be changing as well in the near future…

Hi Daniel. I’m sorry to say I will be one of those tourists heading to the North in February. I’m coming at that time of year because it will be quieter and you’re probably right that will change with many others thinking like I do. You are so lucky to live in such a wonderful country with so many interesting places to visit. I visited Reykjavik and the South earlier this year and that was magical. In February it will be the Snaefellness Peninsula and The North this time and I cannot wait.

Thanks for the write up Shing and many of these places are on my list to visit too.

We are heading to Iceland February 19 for a week. We are used to driving in snow and have rented a 4×4 and have traveled with somewhat aggressive itineraries in the past – however not in Iceland. Is it feasible to drive around the Island on 1 in a week? Sleeping along the way in various locations? Thanks

Very Nice Written Blog! I really like it. I went to North Iceland last year and I enjoyed a lot there……I visited most of the places which you mentioned above …….Really want to go again…..

What an amazing and fascinating place to visit. I really didn’t know much about this but after reading this post I will surely visit one day. Thanks for sharing such an amazing post.

Great Information, Nice Blog! I really love traveling and I went to Iceland last year with my friends and I truly enjoyed there. Thanks for sharing it.

Hi. I am planning to go to North Iceland because I read in another article that it is the best to most likely see Aurora Borealis. Is that info true? If so, Could you give me an idea on how much money I should bring if I stay there for a week? Also, I am traveling alone, and I am an elderly woman, 67. Is North Iceland safe for solo travelers? Thank you in advance for your reply.

Hello, I am planning to visit Iceland in march. Apart from northern lights which are a must we wish to experience prominent excursions around Reykjavik and visit northern iceland too. We may have 10 to 12 days for the trip. Can anyone let me know how many days needed to cover northern iceland grossly?

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18 Things To Do & Places to Visit In Iceland

Where to Go in Iceland

What to see in iceland, top attractions in iceland, a map of 18 best things to do in iceland, 18. be inspired by snaefellsjokull glacier, 17. be amazed by the beautiful mount kirkjufell, 16. stroll on a black sand beach in south iceland, 15. discover why diamond beach is called diamond beach, 14. decide if reynisdrangar are basalt pillars or frozen trolls, 13. take in the sea-arch dyrholaey, 12. see the largest glacier in europe, 11. enjoy natural treatments at the blue lagoon, 10. go whale watching in husavik, 9. wildlife spotting in the hornstrandir nature reserve, 8. drive to the eastfjords.

• 7. Seek Out Wild Reindeer in Eastfjords

6. Explore the Lake Myvatn Geothermal Area

5. take a detour from the golden circle, 4. photograph the beautiful asbyrgi canyon, 3. hike through skaftafell nature reserve, 2. drive the golden circle, 1. chase the midnight sun or the northern lights, what should you avoid in iceland.

Find the top things to do in Iceland and read about where to go and what to see. Whether it's natural wonders, cultural experiences, or hidden gems, read on and learn all about Iceland's must-see attractions.

There are too many things to do in Iceland to keep count. It’s a realm of stark contrasts. It’s an island of striking landscapes where rivers run through deserts and molten lava erupts from ice.

It’s a country where the natural elements dance between the poles of fire and frost, with endless nights during the depth of winter and summers where the sun never sets.

It can be a little overwhelming to decide what to do and where to go in Iceland. Before you book your trip, there’s a lot to consider. Find the perfect place to stay on the largest selection of accommodations in Iceland and choose from a wide variety of tours  you can be a part of. To enjoy everything Iceland has to offer, it's best to rent a car and the cheapest car rentals in Iceland can be found here .

The first major location in Iceland that almost every traveler will experience is  Reykjavik . You'll reach the island's only city after flying to  Keflavik International Airport  and crossing the volcanic  Reykjanes Peninsula .

The country's capital has spectacular landmarks such as  Hallgrimskirkja church , the  Harpa Concert Hall , and the interactive museum at  Perlan . It is also a brilliant place to experience nature, with whale and puffin watching tours in  Faxafloi Bay  and plenty of conservation reserves, such as  Seltjarnarnes  and  Heidmork .

Along this trail, you'll discover a UNESCO World Heritage Site between two tectonic plates named  Thingvellir National Park , the exploding hot springs of the  Geysir Geothermal Area , and the breathtaking  Gullfoss waterfall . You can also find lesser-known but equally beautiful attractions on longer explorations, such as the  Kerid crater lake .

The  South Coast sightseeing route  is also easy to explore from Reykjavik. This route will expose you to the world-famous  Skogafoss  and  Seljalandsfoss  waterfalls, the  black sand beach of Reynisfjara , and impressive volcanoes such as  Eyjafjallajokull , which notably erupted in 2010.

The Ring Road  encircles Iceland and provides a dream holiday for those eager to marvel over Iceland's diverse nature. Such a journey exposes you to the magical  Eastfjords , the geothermal wonders of  Lake Myvatn  in North Iceland, and countless other attractions.

Top Ring Road Tours

It's no secret that Iceland has some of the world's most unique and stunning nature, shaped by volcanoes and glaciers. The country's small population makes this even more special, as many of its landscapes and features remain untouched and pristine.

Most notable among Iceland's attractions are its incredible waterfalls, bubbling hot springs, gleaming ice caps, dramatic fjords, and lunar-like lava landscapes. Fascinating wildlife also populates the island, with whales and dolphins in the seas and abundant birdlife on the shores and further inland.

Speaking of summer, Iceland is also a great place to enjoy the magical light of the midnight sun. This phenomenon occurs from mid-May to mid-August, when the sun never sets, providing bright nights and plenty of extra hours for sightseeing and adventure.

Top Summer Tours & Packages

Iceland's winters are characterized by the phenomenon known as aurora borealis. This magical display appears between September and April when the sky is dark, clear, and the forecast is strong. Seeing the northern lights in Iceland is a top bucket list activity for almost all winter travelers.

Top Winter Tours & Packages in Iceland

3-day northern lights tour of iceland’s golden circle & south coast with ice caving & glacier hiking, 8-day guided northern lights winter tour of the complete ring road of iceland, scenic 4-day northern lights tour of vatnajokull ice cave, jokulsarlon & the south coast.

Many of the top attractions in Iceland have been mentioned in the paragraphs above. Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the northern lights are all among the most famous, but there are plenty more that travelers should make every effort to see.

• The Blue Lagoon : Iceland has many geothermal spas around the country, but the Blue Lagoon is the most popular. Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula near Keflavik International Airport, this attraction is a perfect place to begin or end a holiday in Iceland.
• The Snaefellsnes peninsula : Nicknamed' Iceland in miniature', this peninsula in West Iceland has everything that makes Iceland famous. Historic villages, abundant wildlife, dramatic mountains, waterfalls, and spectacular beaches can all be explored in a day. The Snaefellsjokull National Park, home to the  Snaefellsjokull glacier , is particularly notable.
• The Westfjords : One of Iceland's most remote and sparsely populated regions, the Westfjords are named after their countless dramatic fjords, framed by enormous flat-topped mountains. Though off the Ring Road and largely only accessible in summer, this is an ideal location for travelers hoping to see untouched nature, tiny fishing villages, and plenty of animals, such as arctic foxes, whales, seals, and puffins.

• North Iceland : This vast region is most famous for the Lake Myvatn area and the beautiful town of  Akureyri . The  Diamond Circle , however, is a fantastic sightseeing route that features the incredible  canyon of Asbyrgi , the whale-watching town of  Husavik , and the second-most powerful waterfall in Europe,  Dettifoss . North Iceland also has countless hidden gems off the beaten track.
• The Eastfjords: Like the Westfjords, the Eastfjords have many beautiful bays, dramatic mountains, and tiny villages. Unlike the Westfjords, however, this area is on the Ring Road and accessible year-round. It is also the only place where you can see wild reindeer in Iceland.

• Vatnajokull National Park : Iceland's greatest national park is centered around the largest ice cap in Europe, the Vatnajokull glacier. Though you can access many of its attractions from the east and north, the most popular are in the south. These include the iceberg-filled Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and the breathtaking Skaftafell Nature Reserve.
• The Highlands : An untouched, uninhabited region defined by volcanoes, hot springs, and glaciers, Iceland's highlands are a fantastic place for adventurers. Hiking is particularly popular here, particularly along the  Laugavegur trail . This route connects the volcanic  Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve  with the dramatic  Thorsmork Valley  and can be crossed in four to six days.

Your average sightseeing guide of Iceland is probably the size of a dictionary. There are so many unique Iceland attractions and landscapes that fitting all of them into a holiday may seem like an impossible task. So, we’ve made a map of must-see places in Iceland below for you to reference:

You might notice that there are only 17 attractions on the map, but that’s because number 18 is not restricted to a location!

To optimize your time in Iceland, we recommend you check out these best self-drive travel plans in Iceland .

Popular self-drive tours

10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes, best 1-week summer self-drive tour of the ring road of iceland & golden circle, best 7-day northern lights self drive tour through south iceland to jokulsarlon ice cave.

If you don’t want to drive, you can book Iceland vacation packages from Keflavik International Airport or Reykjavik, which will take you to the best surrounding sites in fun, small-group, guided tours. 

Top Vacation Packages in Iceland

Whether you’ve decided to self-drive around Iceland or take a tour, we’ve rounded up, not only the top 10 things to do in Iceland but the top 18. This includes the must-see places, things to do and see in Iceland, and what you should avoid.

If you want to see Iceland’s diverse landscapes and features, all you need to do is plan a day trip to the Snaefellsnes peninsula.

The Snaefellsnes peninsula has been nicknamed 'Iceland in Miniature' due to the sheer variety of landscapes, you can see on the peninsula. There’s so much to see and do there that you may want to read our ultimate guide to the Snaefellsnes peninsula .

But its crown jewel is the Snaefellsjokull glacier. It’s a twin-peaked glacier that sits over a volcano on the peninsula’s tip, surrounded by jagged lava fields and a dramatic coastline on three sides. You can see it from some of the area’s other top attractions, such as the all-but-abandoned hamlet of Budir and the Londrangar sea stacks.

The glacier has such a special place in Icelanders’ hearts that they declared it a National Park in 2001. It shares this status with only two other sites in the entire country (both featured on this list).

Many art pieces, particularly literature, have been inspired by the Snaefellsjokull glacier. The most famous is Jules Verne’s classic science fiction novel A Journey to the Center of the Earth from 1864. If you’re wondering what to see in Iceland, the Snaefellsjokull glacier is a great choice.

On a clear day, you can see it all the way from Reykjavik across Faxafloi Bay, but there’s no comparison to seeing the glacier up close.

It’s possible to drive to the glacier and back within a day, but you will probably want to spend more time there. It’s one of Iceland’s must-see attractions included in many self-drive tours, such as a six-day winter self-drive tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & Snaefellsnes because you need to spend more than a day there!

Top Snaefellsnes Tours

There are plenty of Snaefellsnes tours and packages to choose from, including ones that take you on  a snowcat ride on the glacier’s icy surface .

Of all the spectacular places to see in Iceland, Kirkjufell mountain is one of the most impressive. Kirkjufell is one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland. You might also recognize it as the Arrowhead Mountain north of The Wall in the Game of Thrones TV series.

Kirkjufell mountain translates to Church Mountain and is a popular destination for self-drive tours. The water in front of the mountain makes it even more scenic. It produces either a mirror image or becomes a perfect white blanket of ice and snow in the winter.

Iceland’s South Coast is extremely popular among travelers. It’s a region everyone should consider when deciding what to do in Iceland.

Iceland’s glaciers and coastal erosion have left the vast majority of its coastline jagged, with fjords defining the West, North, and East. However, much of the South Coast is vulnerable to glacial flooding, which has flattened the rocks into black sand.

If you decide to take a tour of the South Coast of Iceland , be sure to explore the black sand beaches along the coastline. 

The most famous of these black sand beaches is Reynisfjara, near the village of Vik . Like many of the most beautiful places in Iceland, Reynisfjara beach’s beauty comes from its stark and haunting landscapes.

The black sand beaches might be some of the best things to see in Iceland, but swimming in them is forbidden. The sea is dangerous because of cold water temperatures and strong currents. Reynisfjara is especially risky because of the sneaker waves that unexpectedly surge upon the shore.

You should stay at least 67 to 100 feet (20 to 30 meters) from the surf at all times and take any safety advice provided at attractions seriously.

Top South Coast Tours

Best ice cave tour in vatnajokull glacier starting from jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 2 day ice cave tour with south coast waterfalls & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Reynisfjara is not the only beach on the South Coast worthy of note. Further east is ‘the crown jewel of Iceland’s nature,’ the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, beside Diamond Beach .

The lagoon is full of icebergs that slowly make their way toward the ocean after breaking from a glacial tongue year-round. When they reach the sea, the waves push them onto the beach, and the result is mesmerizing.

The blue of the ice and the white of the surf contrast with the black sand and make Diamond Beach exceptionally beautiful and one of Iceland’s best places to visit.

Add the colors of the northern lights  or the dramatic hues of the midnight sun, and you have a view that looks like a fantasy novelist created it.

As if that wasn’t enough, sometimes you can also spot seals playing in the lagoon and out at sea.

The mighty waves of South Iceland have carved two basalt pillars called Reynisdrangar . They’re near Vik and were featured in Game of Thrones as Eastwatch-by-the-Sea.

Like many of Iceland’s most striking rock formations, some say these pillars are trolls frozen in the morning sun's light. They face Reynisfjall mountain , where you can find Iceland’s famous black basalt hexagonal columns.

In walking distance of Reynisfjara is the magnificent sea arch of Dyrholaey . From its peak, visitors can see incredible views of the surrounding area, and nesting puffins cover the arch in summer. Dyrholaey is just one of the many top places to see puffins in Iceland .

One of the best places to visit in Iceland is the Vatnajokull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. It makes up 8% of Iceland’s landmass with countless stunning ice caves , each a marvelous feat of nature.

Under the ice are at least three active volcanoes and the tallest peak in Iceland. Vatnajokull glacier also feeds countless rivers and outlet glaciers. It’s featured in Games of Thrones and two James Bond movies.

Top Glacier Tours

The Blue Lagoon is the country’s most visited geothermal spa and perhaps the most popular attraction in Iceland. The water here is an opaque, milky blue, unlike anything found elsewhere on earth.

The hot pool is rich in minerals and thriving with good bacteria. Silica masks are available for all guests, too. Both the water and masks have given the lagoon a reputation for healing.

The Blue Lagoon sits within the volcanic Reykjanes peninsula’s incredible nature, which is known for its stark and haunting landscapes.

The spa is surrounded by lava fields coated in grey moss. When seen through a veil of steam, the scene is otherworldly.

A trip here to relax and rejuvenate at the start or end of your journey is perfect. Those looking for something even more luxurious may want to consider some of the private treatments available. 

Some treatments available at the Blue Lagoon include in-water massages and natural beauty treatments tailored to your skin. The latter use rare algae and minerals with specific procedures for those with skin conditions, such as psoriasis.

The lagoon is just 14 miles (22 kilometers) from Keflavik International Airport and 31 miles (49 kilometers) from Reykjavik’s city center. Conveniently, there are affordable airport transfers to the Blue Lagoon.

Top Blue Lagoon Tours

Please note that the Blue Lagoon is a top-rated Iceland attraction, therefore, it's best to  book your admission ticket in advance.

There are over twenty species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises in Iceland’s waters, with many cities offering boat tours .

Whale-watching  is a common activity in ports such as Reykjavik and Akureyri, and in regions such as the Westfjords, you can catch sight of whales from shore. But one of the best places in Iceland to whale watch is the small northern town of Husavik.

Husavik, nicknamed ‘the whale-watching capital of Europe,’ sits by Skjalfandi Bay . The area is teeming with sea life in the summer. You can spot harbor porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, and humpback whales almost every day.

Occasionally, lucky guests may see more unusual species such as orcas, blue whales, fin whales, and even rare narwhals.

Top Whale Watching & Puffin Tours

Summer is also the nesting season for many migratory bird species in Iceland, most notably the puffin. 

You can spot these birds on whale-watching tours from Reykjavik, Akureyri, and Husavik. There are even tours that combine puffin and whale watching from Husavik .

Intertwined with the Sagas and inhabited until the early 20th century, the northernmost part of the Westfjords is called Hornstrandir . Abandoned due to its remoteness and lack of industry, one might think this place doesn’t belong on a list of what to do in Iceland.

But it has recently found new life as an incredibly well-preserved nature reserve.

There’s so much wildlife in this area of Iceland  that it’s one of the best places to go in Iceland for wildlife lovers and photographers. This wild land is the least populated part of the country outside the Highlands and is best known for its non-human residents. 

The magnificent cliffs rise to 1,752 feet (534 meters) above sea level and are home to tens of thousands of seabirds. You have a high chance of spotting Iceland’s only native land mammal in the overgrown fields, the Arctic fox.

Top Westfjords Tours

The animals in this region have no problem with humans getting close to them. While feeding wild animals is heavily discouraged, the fearless foxes here will happily eat out of the palm of your hand.

You can reach the Hornstrandir area by ferries from Isafjordur and the Strandir district. It’s also possible to book tours of the Westfjords , taking the hassle out of the experience.

Where should you visit in Iceland if you like remote, off-the-beaten-path things to see and do? Aside from Hornstrandir, the Eastfjords are sparsely populated and mark the country’s farthest point from Reykjavik.

Only those driving the full ring road or who have booked a vacation package around the country are likely to see them. However, those who visit often return, saying it was their favorite part of the country.

This remote corner of Iceland is far from crowds of travelers, providing the tranquillity many seek on their trip to the island. Renting a car is necessary to reach this remote region of Iceland, so you can explore it at your own pace.

Driving up and down high mountain passes and along dramatic cliff edges, you’ll see magnificent seascapes and incredible views of Vatnajokull National Park and its enormous central glacier.

Despite its remoteness, the East has several settlements such as Djupivogur , Seydisfjordur , and Egilsstadir , where you can find services such as gas, food, and comfortable accommodations. These traditional towns and villages are seated within incredible natural surroundings.

Seydisfjordur is spectacular, nestled deep within a fjord with sheer cliffs and magnificent ocean views. Many of East Iceland’s top attractions are in the area, such as Husey and Borgafjordur Eystri . 

Top Eastfjords Tours

7. seek out wild reindeer in eastfjords .

As you drive through the Eastfjords, keep a keen eye out for the local wildlife. The waters are fertile and filled with marine life, and numerous sea birds fly in the skies above. The Eastfjords are also the only region in the country where you can see reindeer roaming free.

One reason why they aren’t on most lists of Iceland’s things to see might be because reindeer aren’t native to Iceland. A royal decree introduced them in the 18th century from Norway and Denmark, but only those in the Eastfjords survived. 

The best place to spot them is at the fjord near the town Seydisfjordur or on a super jeep wild reindeer experience tour.

Forty-nine miles (78.8 kilometers) east of the ‘Capital of North Iceland,’ Akureyri, is a geological and geothermal wonderland called the Lake Myvatn area. 

A series of catastrophic eruptions formed these lakes over two millennia ago. The area now boasts a wealth of hidden gems you can reach by taking a tour of Myvatn .

The lakes themselves are beautiful in their formation and the life that flourishes within them.

Dozens of bird species flock to the waters in summer, and those interested in flora should look out for moss balls, which form in a few other places around the world.

But the geology that surrounds Myvatn lake is perhaps even more spectacular. Perfectly formed pseudo-volcanic craters line many banks. You can walk up to and around them and discover the secrets of Iceland’s volcanism.

Dimmuborgir , meanwhile, is a field of lava so dramatic it’s often called the Black Fortress. In this lava field, hidden in a cave, is the increasingly famous Grjotagja hot spring .

Though you cannot bathe in this water due to its ever-changing temperature. Many scenes of the TV series Game of Thrones were shot in Iceland , and this cave was a shooting location for one of the franchise’s most famous love scenes featuring Jon Snow and Ygritte.

However, those who want to take a dip in geothermal waters need not look far. The Myvatn Nature Baths are perfect for unwinding when traveling through the region.

Top Myvatn Tours

Visitors to the Myvatn lake area will find many other fascinating sites just a short drive away. 

For example, Myvatn lake is close to Namaskard Pass , where you can discover seething fumaroles and bubbling mud pits on a stark mountain plateau.

It’s also close to some incredible waterfalls, notably Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

The most popular short road trip in Iceland is, without a doubt, the famous Golden Circle. However, if you want to add a little zest to your self-drive Golden Circle tour , there are also several top things to do in Iceland that require just a slight detour from the route.

Due to these sites’ popularity and the fact it only takes half a day to get around them, many tour operators offer additional fun activities to the Golden Circle .

Thrill-seekers can snorkel in the Silfra rift or join a cold water diving tour (if qualified) in Thingvellir’s freshwater springs,  Silfra  rift , for some of the best underwater sights in the world. 

The adventurous can add a snowmobiling trip , which departs from the Gullfoss waterfall and takes you onto the surface of the mighty Langjokull glacier .

Top Snorkeling Tours

Unforgettable drysuit snorkeling in silfra with underwater photos & transfer from reykjavik, snorkeling tour between continents in silfra with free underwater photos & snacks, meet on location 30 minute snorkeling tour in the crystal waters of silfra.

In Northeast Iceland, just off the beaten track, is a natural feature so intricately formed that legend has it that the canyon was created as a result of divine intervention.

According to the myth, the horseshoe canyon of Asbyrgi was formed when one of the hoofs of Odin’s eight-legged Icelandic horse came in contact with the ground. This is a must-see in Iceland if you’re interested in Norse mythology.

Top Photo Tours

The cliffs surrounding it and the plateau that rises from the center allow for some of the country’s most dramatic views and photographs. 

The valley is also beautiful from within, filled with thickets of birch, willow, fir, larch, and pine. Indeed, it’s so rich with vegetation that it’s hard to imagine this location is actually in Iceland.

It’s no surprise that many myths about Iceland’s hidden people (elves) originate from here.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve has such varied landscapes it was once a national park. 

Now it’s the most alluring and accessible section of Vatnajokull National Park and one of Iceland’s best places to visit for nature lovers.

You can camp in the greens of a birch wood forest by a beautiful glacial stream, just a short walk from haunting black deserts and dramatic lava fields.

The glacier tongues and lagoons throughout the reserve all originate in Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajokull. Those eager to enjoy the magnificent views from the top can book a glacier hiking tour on one of the glacial outlets, Svinafellsjokull .

Even if you don’t want to walk on the ice, you can enjoy the area’s many other hiking trails .

The trail to Svartifoss waterfall is the most notable, where the water flows over an impressive cliff of black basalt columns.

Top Skaftafell Tours

Skaftafell is conveniently located on the South Coast of Iceland, 35 miles (56 kilometers) from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach.

We teased it earlier in the list, but there's no doubt that the Golden Circle is one of the top attractions in Iceland. The route is 186 miles (300 kilometers) long and takes you to the most spectacular Iceland attractions in Southwest Iceland: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.

Thingvellir National Park is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site on Iceland’s mainland. Located in an incredible valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, it boasts a spectacular landscape of lava fields and forests interrupted by crystal-clear streams.

Meanwhile, the Geysir Geothermal Area has such iconic geysers that the word 'geyser' derives from the very same Geysir.

Though Geysir is now virtually dormant, its neighbor Strokkur erupts over 65 feet (20 meters) in the air every five minutes, providing plenty of photographing opportunities.

Gullfoss is the best-known waterfall in Iceland, surging with enormous power down two tiers into an ancient valley carved out during the last ice age. On a sunny day, you might just find a rainbow or two slicing through the mist!

There are plenty of guided tours of the Golden Circle , but many visitors also opt to self-drive so that they can see Iceland’s sights at their own pace.

The charm of a never-setting sun and the beauty of the northern lights are stunning natural sights to behold and a must-see in Iceland. Although not an actual site, they are undoubtedly the top Iceland attractions. Both have a plethora of tours dedicated to them.

We’ve written a whole post on when exactly is the best time to visit Iceland to see the northern lights. Generally, the best time is between late August and April, with mid-winter offering you the best chance of seeing them. Of course, joining a northern lights tour guided by experts also increases your chances of spotting the aurora borealis.

Come to Iceland between May and August and enjoy the never-setting sun if you prefer warm weather. There are many top midnight sun tours to choose from to experience the magical hours. Learn more about this phenomenon in our complete guide to the midnight sun .

Since both are top things to see in Iceland, you may want to visit Iceland twice to witness both the magic of the northern lights in winter and the midnight sun in summer.

Top Northern Lights Tours & Holidays

There are some things to avoid in Iceland for various reasons. We’ve covered all of them in our dumbest things to do in Iceland.

In terms of places to avoid - we’re happy to say that all the attractions in Iceland are as pretty in real life as in photos. That said, the best thing to do to avoid disappointment is to book your visits in advance to famous Iceland tourist spots. The chief among them is the Blue Lagoon.

We hope this helps you find out where to go in Iceland and the best things to do to make the most of your stay here. Let us know your favorite natural attraction in Iceland, and share any hidden gems you discover while traveling across the unique landscape. 

Don’t hesitate to leave your comments and queries below.

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

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The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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17 Best Places To See the Northern Lights

Posted: February 8, 2024 | Last updated: February 8, 2024

One of the most enchanting natural phenomena in the Northern Hemisphere is the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. On the proper night, with perfect weather conditions and peak solar activity, you can see the stunning lights that paint the night sky. Here are some of the best places to view the Northern Lights. 

1. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik offers so much to see and explore, like geothermal pools, volcanic tours, and excellent culture, but visitors should also check out the Northern Lights that appear between September and April. Just a short journey to Hofdabrekka, near Vik in southern Iceland , Aurora Borealis enthusiasts can soak up this wondrous site.

Travel writer Ashlee Fechino shares, “I saw the Northern Lights in September while flying into Reykjavik. It was spectacular and I will remember it for the rest of my life.”

2. Abisko National Park, Sweden

One of the very best places to see the Northern Lights in Sweden is in Abisko National Park. Located in the very north of Sweden, along the Norwegian Sea, visitors can watch in wonder while these beautiful lights dance and fill the winter night sky.

3. Westfjords, Iceland

Long hours in Westfjords and North Iceland make them ideal locations to see the Northern Lights. As a popular viewing destination, there are many tours you can join throughout the area. Plan your trip to Iceland anywhere from September through April for the best chance of spotting the Lights. 

4. Lower and Upper Peninsula, Michigan, U.S.

Find a spot along the Great Lakes of Michigan for the best viewing, preferably somewhere dark without ambient light. The best time to see the Aurora Borealis in Michigan is April, October, and November–though the lights tend to flare throughout the winter into spring.

5. Yellowknife, Canada

About 250 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Yellowknife is part of Canada’s northwest territories. Yellowknife is also the Northern Lights Capital of the North American continent, making it a great destination. Visitors may start to see the lights anywhere from September through the end of March. 

6. Tromso, Norway

Tromso has darkness and good weather that’s conducive to seeing the lights. Book your trip in late January or early February to glimpse the Northern Lights. You can even see them from the cable car on Storsteinen Mountain. 

7. Lapland, Finland

Native Sami people of Finnish Lapland believe the lights occur because of fire foxes running so fast across the sky that their tails brush against the mountains and create sparks in the sky. With an average of 200 nights per year of Aurora Borealis (which means arctic dawn) from September to March, the best time to catch the light show is right before midnight. 

8. Oymyakon, Siberia

The story goes that God looked down on what he created and dropped diamonds that fell across the Yakutia region, which are the Northern Lights often seen in Siberia. Oymyakon is a remote location, but the trip and time spent with locals in their homes (there are no hotels in the area) will make the journey worth it. 

9. Fairbanks, Alaska, U.S.

Fairbanks is a popular spot for tourists to stop on their trip to Alaska, with the upside of possibly seeing the Northern Lights during their stay. Many local hotels also offer complimentary wake-up calls to let you know when the lights are out. Talk about full service!

10. Ilulissat, Greenland

Inuit people of Greenland hold to their belief that the lights were spirits of the dead playing games in the sky with–get this–a walrus skull. Most of the country is uninhabited, which makes it a great place to see the lights without city light pollution. Ilulissat is one of the most popular areas in Greenland for viewing during the autumn months. 

11. Churchill, Canada

Rumor has it that Churchill in Manitoba boasts a whopping 300 nights of visibility of the Northern Lights. You’ll have a good chance of seeing the lights for most of the year. However, visitors should plan their trip to northwestern Canada from January to March for the best time for viewing. 

12. Isle of Skye, Scotland

In Scotland, the Northern Lights are known by locals as the “merry dancers,” thought to be fallen angels and warriors. Autumn and winter see a decrease in visitors, making it the perfect time to travel to one of the most iconic destinations in the country to view the Northern Lights. 

13. Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Another ideal location in Greenland–one of the best in the world–is in the small village of Kangerlussuaq. With less than 1,000 people with limited artificial lights and clear skies, you can experience the Aurora Borealis from October through April. 

14. Svalbard, Norway

Adventure seekers get the most out of their trip to Svalbard. Aside from joining a tour to see the Northern Lights, you can also go on a cruise or join a dog-sledding and hiking trip to make the experience even better. It’s best to travel between October and February, during the darkest months, for the best viewing. 

15. Shetland Islands, Scotland

As the northernmost area of Scotland, the Shetland Islands puts you closest to the Arctic Circle, meaning you’ll have a better chance of viewing the Aurora Borealis here. This relatively remote destination offers excellent viewing of the lights from the end of autumn through early spring. 

16. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

If you’re visiting south Iceland, you can still view the Northern Lights by traveling to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. A drive from a neighboring village, Vik, will take you to the lagoon, or you can find a nearby black sand beach to enjoy the show. 

17. Whitehorse, Canada

The Yukon capital, Whitehorse, is a reasonably accessible area to see the Northern Lights, with lodging and tours for the whole family to enjoy. Winter months will be the best time to spend in Whitehorse. It’s also when many tours are in operation. 

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5 places to see the northern lights in 2024

Apr 29, 2024

Anita Santosh

If witnessing this mesmerizing phenomenon is on your bucket list for 2024, here are five exceptional destinations where you can experience the magic of the Northern Lights:

Tromsø, Norway : Known as the gateway to the Arctic, Tromsø is one of the best places on earth to witness the Northern Lights. Located well within the Arctic Circle, this Norwegian city offers ample opportunities for aurora viewing from September to March.

Abisko, Sweden : Situated in the northernmost reaches of Sweden, near the border with Norway, Abisko is renowned for its optimal conditions for Northern Lights viewing. The area benefits from a unique microclimate that results in clear skies, making it an ideal location for spotting the auroras.

Iceland : Iceland's rugged terrain and minimal light pollution make it another prime destination for witnessing the Northern Lights. The country's proximity to the Arctic Circle means that sightings are possible from September to April, with peak viewing typically occurring in the winter months.

Yellowknife, Canada : Situated in the Northwest Territories of Canada, Yellowknife is often referred to as the "Aurora Capital of North America." Its northern location and clear, dark skies make it a hotspot for aurora chasers seeking unforgettable experiences.

Rovaniemi, Finland : As the capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi is not only famous as the official hometown of Santa Claus but also as an excellent destination for Northern Lights sightings. Situated on the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi experiences aurora displays from late August to early April, with peak visibility occurring in the winter months.

Money latest: Changes to Spotify and energy bills announcement - key money dates in May

As April rolls into May, we take a look at the key money dates to add to your calendar this month - including Spotify price changes and an energy price cap announcement. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment in the box.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 10:36, UK

• Key dates for Spotify customers, energy bills, free childcare and interest rates in May
• Cheapest dates, and days of week, to fly this summer
• Wait for interest rate cut leads to surprise dip in house price growth

Essential reads

• Turns out supermarket boss was right about self-checkouts
• State pensions 'could be in doubt for future generations'
• One of UK's top chefs reveals best Cheap Eats in Norfolk - and cling film tip for amazing cabbage
• Money Problem : 'Builders won't repair dodgy work - what are my rights?'
• '£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches

Ask a question or make a comment

Are you struggling because of high interest rates? Sky News is keen to hear from people who are due to refix their mortgages this year or are on a variable rate or tracker mortgage or trying to get on the housing ladder. 

Email us your stories at  [email protected]  - or WhatsApp us  here .

As April rolls into May, let's take a look at the key money dates to add to your calendar this month. 

A small note before we jump in - May is a month with a couple of bank holidays, so if any of your benefits payments would normally fall on those days, you'll get the money on the previous working day instead.

1 May - Prescription price change

The cost of your NHS prescription increases by 25p today - from £9.65 to £9.90.

Repeat prescription customers can apply for a prepayment certificate (PPC) which charges a fixed amount for a set period of prescriptions.

However, the cost of a one-year PCC will also rise to £114.50 from £111.60 - a rise of almost £3.

9 May - Interest rate decision 

Next week, the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will meet for its latest review of interest rates. 

The MPC has decided to freeze the base rate at 5.25% over recent months.

While nothing is guaranteed, the BoE is widely expected among economists to hold the rate once again - thought to be waiting for inflation to get closer to the Bank's 2% target. 

12 May - Free childcare applications open

From 12 May, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old will be able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

You won't be able to claim the hours until September. 

Check if you're eligible here . 

15 May - Subway loyalty points changes

Sandwich giant Subway has outlined a series of measures in its branches regarding its loyalty schemes. 

Customers have until 14 May to use the current scheme before it changes to a new app-only loyalty scheme. 

From 15 May, any points will expire and become unredeemable.

May 24 - Energy price cap announcement

Regulator Ofgem will announce the new energy price cap for the period 1 July to 30 September.

The current price cap (£1,690 a year) is expected by analysts at Cornwall Insights to fall by just over £100 to around £1,559 for the average household per year. 

Spotify hikes 

As we reported in the Money blog, Spotify will hike its prices by around £2 per month...

Depending on a customer's billing date, payment change to the higher rate will fall in either May or June. 

Spotify has said it will email existing customers with one-month's notice of the increase.

By James Sillars , business reporter

A piece of good news to bring you: a welcome fall in oil costs.

A barrel of Brent crude started the week close to $88.

It is trading at $85 today after three days of declines – the latest in Asian trading today.

The major move lower, however, came yesterday afternoon.

Analysts credited increasing hopes of a ceasefire agreement in the Middle East and on rising US crude inventories and production.

It's been another positive start to the day for the FTSE 100 - rising 0.1% to 8.157 points in early deals.

The index has started higher each session this week but, in truth, it has struggled to make big inroads since last week's record closing high.

Banks and miners are leading the way.

Next, however, was among the fallers despite posting a strong rise in full price sales.

The first quarter increase of 5.7% was above market expectations but the retailer, usually renowned for keeping expectations low and over-delivering, maintained its guidance for annual sales and profits.

Its shares were 1.2% lower.

Among the fallers in the wider market was Aston Martin Lagonda.

The luxury carmaker's stock was almost 9% down after posting bigger than expected quarterly losses.

EasyJet passengers were left scrambling to rebook flights after they were wrongly told their flights were cancelled "due to Israel". 

The airline sent emails and text messages to holidaymakers informing them their flights would not be taking off on 28 April as planned - before scrambling to let them know, an hour later, that there had been a mistake.

Amid the confusion, travellers shared their frustration on social media, with one asking: "Is this a scam? EasyJet App is not showing cancellation and has allowed me to check in."

The airline has since released a statement confirming there was a technical error.

"EasyJet can confirm that unfortunately, on 28 April, some customers received an incorrect notification stating that their flight on 30 April was cancelled," a spokesperson told Sky News.

"This was due to a technical error and all customers were quickly sent updated messages with a confirmation their flight is operating as normal. We would like to apologise for this and any inconvenience caused."

Shifting expectations for UK interest rate cuts have contributed to a dip in house price growth, according to a closely watched measure.

Nationwide reported a 0.4% fall in average property costs last month compared with March, taking the annual rate of growth to 0.6% from 1.6%.

Economists polled by the Reuters news agency had expected month-on-month growth of 0.2%.

The lender's report said the easing reflected "ongoing affordability pressures, with longer term interest rates rising in recent months, reversing the steep fall seen around the turn of the year".

Read the full story here ...

Every Wednesday we get Michelin chefs, top bloggers or critics to pick their favourite Cheap Eats where they live and at home. This week we speak to one of the most renowned chefs in the UK, Galton Blackiston of the Michelin-starred Morston Hall in Norfolk.

He's gone the extra mile in his Cheap Eats at home - uploading a how-to video to Instagram.

Hi  Galton, c an you tell us your favourite places in Norfolk where you can get a meal for two for less than £40?

Allium in Downham Market , a family run restaurant which involves mum, dad, Joe in kitchen and James front of house. Open Wednesday through to Sunday, it has a great vibe on a Saturday evening and great food.

Bure River Restaurant , a tiny restaurant on the broads in Horning cooking lovely fish dishes.

Final cheap place is the Parlour in Binham , where they have a great restaurant and you put money into an honesty box for their local cheese from the village and raw milk from their farm - a great place to visit in Norfolk.

What's your go-to cheap meal at home?

Toad in the hole with a baked potato and hispi cabbage and onion gravy.

A good tip I would say is to colour off the sausages in dripping then pour over the batter, which should be eight eggs, 250g plain flour, one pint of full fat milk, salt pepper and nutmeg. Whisk together and allow to sit for an hour til you use. 

And this is how you do the hispi cabbage with cling film over the pan...

Flight prices often rocket in the summer, but it turns out particular dates can prove cheaper. 

Research by Expedia has revealed the best dates to book your trips... 

The cheapest times to fly 

If you're flying domestic, the best dates for your wallet are 28 July, 19 August and 23 August. 

Expedia also recommends booking your domestic flights for a Wednesday to save roughly 20%. 

For those travelling internationally, the cheapest dates are 2 and 13 June, and 28 August. 

When it comes to booking, you can save about 15% if you book for a Thursday versus at the weekend. 

The quietest times to fly

If you care more about a quieter airport, the least busy dates for flying domestic are 10 June, and 11 and 19 July. 

For international flights, the best dates are 4 June, and 27 and 30 August. 

And the dates to avoid...

The most expensive domestic flights are on 30 June, and 8 and 16 July. 

International flights are pricier on 22, 23 and 29 July. 

Meanwhile, Expedia says 30 June and 24 July will be the busiest air travel days for domestic and international destinations. 

Domestic flights are busiest on 30 June, and 8 and 16 July. 

For international flights, 10, 21 and 24 June are the busiest. 

The advertising watchdog has banned a Premier Inn ad for misleading claims about room prices. 

A paid-for search ad for the hotel chain, seen on 4 November, had stated: "Premier Inn Edinburgh - rooms from only £35 per night."

It was referred to the advertising watchdog after a reader complained they couldn't find any rooms at the advertised price. 

Whitbread Group, trading as Premier Inn, provided the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) with data showing there were a total of 377 rooms on offer for £35 in Edinburgh within the 365-day booking window.

But the ASA said customers would understand the ad to mean a significant proportion of rooms available would be £35.

Read the full story, including Premier Inn's response, here ...

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

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

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

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

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

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

It will take about three years to complete. 

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

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

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

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

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