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Every day, there is an adventure waiting to happen in Iceland. With it's abundance of mountains, volcanoes, glaciers, rivers, lakes, caves and otherwise rough terrain waiting to be tackled, Iceland is truly and outdoor enthusiast's paradise. But, it is also warm and welcoming place for the rest of us.

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14 things to know before visiting Iceland in 2024

Feb 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Here's everything to consider when planning your trip to Iceland © Cavan Images / Getty Images

The number of visitors to small, ravishingly beautiful Iceland is soaring.

But this tiny country wasn't always so popular, and there are many important things to be aware of ahead of your visit. In these wild landscapes, small errors can lead to life-threatening situations for both the visitor and the search and rescue operations mounted to save them. 

This handy guide will help first-time visitors avoid social embarrassment, travel responsibly and have a safe and informed trip.

1. Keep up-to-date on Iceland's volcanic eruptions

Travelers heading to Iceland in 2024 will be aware there has been a series of volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula in south-west Iceland, not far from Keflavik International Airport, the main entry point to the capital Reykjavik . No flights have been affected so far, and the rest of Iceland is safe to visit.

The volcanic activity has only affected the town of Grindavik and the local area. All roads to Grindavik and the surrounding area are closed due to danger related to new crevasse openings. Hiking in the area is also prohibited. Icelanders have asked "lava chasers" to respectfully stay away.

The Blue Lagoon , one of Iceland's most popular attractions, also closed for a series of days due to seismic activity in the area but has since reopened.

The UK Foreign Office recommends checking alerts and advice from  Icelandic Met Office  and  Safe Travel Iceland . 

2. Use common sense to stay safe in the wild

Some tourists have been a little foolish in Iceland's incredible landscapes. Visitors have been seen strolling onto the  Sólheimajökull glacier in sneakers and light jackets; a family attempted to drive across Langjökull  glacier in a small SUV. We've also watched a teenager jump into 2°C (35°F) waters at Þingvellir National Park for a dare and witnessed tourists being sucked into the waves at black-sand Djúpalónssandur beach, one of Iceland's best .

Though Iceland's dramatic terrain can be perilous, there are usually no safety rails beside cliff edges and no ropes alongside plummeting waterfalls. Icelanders prefer not to mar beauty with obvious signs, or railings, instead they rely on people to be smart. If there are signs or barriers, heed them!

3. Plan ahead when hitting the road

Having your own wheels in Iceland is a wonderful treat: it allows you to roam the grand countryside at your leisure. Always prepare before setting out: investigate driving times and road conditions (via the Icelandic Road Administration ), weather forecasts, safety issues and, if you're walking in nature, trail conditions and requirements.

Plan an itinerary that's realistic for you. Ask locals, who will know the tricks and troubles of each place. You don't want to be caught on a hillside in fog or sleet (whether on foot or in your car) with no food and water and no idea how to get back to safety.

Safe Travel is a site run by ICE-SAR (Icelandic Search & Rescue), with travel and weather alerts and information, a smartphone app (useful in emergencies) and procedures for filing a travel plan.

4. Do not drive off-road

Never drive off-road. It's illegal and incredibly damaging to the fragile environment. Cavalier tourists leave tracks where they've flouted the rule, and those tracks entice others to do the same. Even with a 4WD, stick to marked roads.

5. Always shower with soap before taking a dip in hot springs

Part of the unique gift of Iceland's volcanic landscape is the excellent natural hot springs you'll find from the town center to the fjord side. It's practically a national pastime to hit the local hotpot, soak and gossip. It is, however, an absolute mandatory hygiene and etiquette rule to wash thoroughly with soap before donning your swimsuit to enter the hot springs and pools.

Most pools are untreated with chemicals, so cleanliness is a real factor. Whether you're at the famous Blue Lagoon  or the remote Krossneslaug, there's no quicker way to disgust an Icelander than to jump in dirty. You should also take your shoes off and put them on the rack provided as you enter the changing room.

6. Dress appropriately for hikes and pack proper outdoor gear

Bring good maps and appropriate gear, plus (you've heard it before): common sense. Consult a proper hiking or cold-weather packing list. Consider this – if you had no access to a car or building, would you be warm and dry enough in what you are wearing?

Never go hiking in jeans. Don't climb on glaciers without proper guidance. Don't try fording rivers in subcompact cars. And don't go camping without hardcore waterproof tents. With proper gear you can relax and enjoy all that beauty, no fear required.

Being prepared can open up great wilderness areas such as the Westfjords' beautiful Hornstrandir Nature Reserve , known for its Arctic foxes, spectacular birding cliffs and unspoiled hiking and camping.

If you need additional equipment once in Iceland, Reykjavík has a bevy of suppliers for gear purchase or rental, including  Fjallakofinn .

Another good information source is Ferðafélag Íslands (the Icelandic Touring Association), which runs many huts, campgrounds and hiking trails.

7. When driving, stick to the right road for your vehicle

Know which roads are accessible in the type of vehicle you're driving. Beyond Iceland's main Ring Road (Route 1), fingers of sealed road or gravel stretch out to most communities until you reach the F Roads, bumpy tracks only passable by 4WD.

F roads are truly unsafe for small cars. If you travel on them in a hired 2WD, you will also invalidate your insurance. Steer clear, hire a 4WD or take a 4WD bus or super-Jeep tour. Similarly, trying to ford a river in a 2WD vehicle or low-slung 4WD is asking for trouble.

8. Take a tour of the more remote or dangerous landscapes

Iceland's tour operators are a professional and knowledgeable bunch and can get you out into rugged country via super-Jeep, amphibious bus, snowmobile, helicopter and more. Going on a tour can offer insights and guidance through dangerous landscapes you shouldn't tackle alone.

9. Understand the impact of tourism on Iceland

Iceland has a population of around 366,000. Before travelers started arriving in droves (with numbers that topped 2 million per year in 2019), most Icelandic sights , from thundering waterfall Skógafoss and basalt beach Reynisfjara to the wild interiors at Landmannalaugar & Þórsmörk, had no need for big car parks, safety placards or hordes of park rangers.

Developing an infrastructure that can cope with its appreciative new visitors while maintaining the untouched feeling of one of the world's most unique landscapes has been a major challenge for Iceland.

10. Travel responsibly and sustainably

Remember the basics of responsible travel: don't litter, reduce your environmental footprint, leave places better than you found them, and protect wild animals and natural flora. This applies to popular sights like the Golden Circle as well as the wild interior where it's just you, the glaciers and volcanoes.

11. Appreciate the open-minded creativity of Icelanders

Icelanders are a generally hardy and open-minded group with a dry but vibrant sense of humor. They tend to speak impeccable English and are game for a chat, or to tell you about their favorite places to go. Respecting local etiquette and laws (along with not whingeing about the weather, or how hard it is to get to the natural wonders) will go a long way in endearing you to them and open opportunities for local connections.

They are also broad in their curiosities – it seems like half of Icelanders are in a band or making some sort of art or craft. They're used to thinking big and having fun. Why not get out there and join them.

12. Take the weather seriously

You may encounter bus tours and droves of visitors in popular places, but Icelandic weather is highly volatile, no matter where you are. A sunny day can quickly turn to snow flurries, and the stakes get even higher as you head into the true wilds. Never underestimate the weather – plan ahead with forecasts from the Icelandic Met Office .

13. Remove your shoes indoors

Icelanders often remove their shoes when they head inside. Pack flip-flops or slippers for indoors.

14. Yes, you can drink the tap water

It's pure and wonderful; Icelanders will look at you askance if you ask for bottled water.

This article was first published July 2015 and updated February 2024

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This Nordic Nation Was Named One of the Safest and Most Peaceful Countries on Earth — How to Plan the Perfect Trip

How to plan the perfect trip to the land of fire and ice.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

Iceland has become one of the top adventure travel destinations in the world. Though, in many respects, it still feels like a well-guarded secret. Perhaps that's because of its bountiful natural resources, empty roads that wind through the vast volcanic landscape, or the swaths of open land with nothing but wild horses and waterfalls for miles.

Not surprisingly, most travelers come to seek out the stunning natural beauty —  from Skógafoss to Thingvellir National Park — and are ready for adventure. To that end, ecologists and environmentalists recommend not eating puffin or whale — sometimes presented to tourists — and following the leave no trace rule. That means taking all of your trash with you and sticking to marked paths to avoid harming the precious ecosystem.  

Besides unimaginable scenery, Iceland provides a wealth of local culture. It's known for having warm hospitality and a strong national pride in its history and mythology. Reykjavik, the capital and largest city brims with museums, churches, cozy restaurants, and bars. Icelanders are quite friendly and helpful. It’s the most peaceful country in the world, according to a recent Global Peace Index report, and the crime rate is extremely low. All this makes it an excellent destination for worry-free solo travel. 

Ready to plan an epic trip to the land of fire and Iceland? Scroll on for expert-approved picks for the best places to explore, eat, drink, and stay.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

A spa lover's dream, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland ranks among the most upscale and relaxing stays in the country. On the pampering side of things, it has an award-winning subterranean spa for mind-body treatments and a private lagoon fed by healing, geothermal waters. Guests also get to enjoy morning yoga, Icelandic coffee time, Michelin-starred dining, and modern suites. "The property is a great choice for the end of an Iceland trip," said Susmita Baral, Travel + Leisure 's travel editor. "Not only is it a great way to relax and indulge in self-care before returning home, but it's also just 20 minutes from the airport."

The Reykjavik Edition

The Reykjavik Edition is a luxury hotel right in the heart of downtown. In addition to a prime location, the newly built property possesses contemporary rooms and a sleek spa with a hammam, steam room, and sauna. Ryan Connolly, owner and a guide for Hidden Iceland , suggests heading up to the rooftop bar in the winter months for cocktails, a lively atmosphere, and a chance to spot the northern lights on a clear night. 

Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll

Surrounded by the remote, untouched wilderness of Iceland’s central highlands, the newly minted Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll supplies the ideal home base for adrenaline-fueled adventures. There are special packages for northern lights chasers and snowmobile enthusiasts. After all the thrills, tuck into a cozy sanctuary with neutral decor, sweeping views, and protection from the elements. "Whether you want to explore the outdoors or stay in, this hotel is truly a cozy base," said Baral. "There's even an underground passageway so you can access the restaurant and other parts of the property without stepping foot outside."

Panorama Glass Lodge

If you’ve ever dreamt of glimpsing the northern lights from the comfort of bed, Panorama Glass Lodge in southern Iceland will turn those fantasies into reality. “The tiny cabins in the middle of nowhere are completely made of glass and come with both private hot tubs and saunas to warm up on cold days and nights,” says Kyana Sue Powers , Iceland expert and travel advisor.

Hotel Rangá

Courtesy of Hotel Rangá

Imagine staying at the base of a volcano! Hotel Rangá boasts such a unique location that it's almost always booked at the height of the season. Available tours emphasize the beauty of the stars and northern lights as well as the luxurious experience of geothermal baths. It’s also a great launchpad for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking.

Golden Circle

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

The most popular tourist route in Iceland, the Golden Circle is an easy path between three stunning, famous natural spots: Thingvellir National Park , the Geysir geothermal area , and the Gullfoss waterfall. You can either drive or arrange a guided tour.

Diamond Circle

nicolamargaret/Getty Images

Located in northern Iceland, the Diamond Circle has four primary stops: Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, Ásbyrgi glacial canyon, and the fishing town of Húsavík (home to the Húsavík Whale Museum). Such scenic and cultural wonders make it one of Iceland's most popular sightseeing routes.

South Coast

Tours of Iceland’s south coast typically begin in either Reykjavik or Vík and bring travelers to many striking natural sights — namely the famous Eyjafjallajökull glacier and Skógafoss, a towering waterfall that often produces a rainbow on sunny days. Other highlights include the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Sólheimajökull glacier, and Reynisfjara black-sand beach.

Blue Lagoon

While Iceland brims with rugged adventures, it’s also a great place for relaxing. Situated in a lava field near Grindavík, the Blue Lagoon is a bucket-list geothermal spa that’s famed for its mineral-rich waters and mud. It’s the perfect spot to spend the day soothing sore muscles and unwinding. (Pro-tip: If you don't want your hair feeling like straw, be sure to lather it in conditioner when you're changing at the property.)

Ice Cave Tour

Ratnakorn Piyasirisorost/Getty Images

One of the most unique features of Iceland, the natural ice caves form in late fall, gleem blue all winter, and melt in the spring. “This makes each visit truly unlike any other,” says Connolly. Due to the rough terrain and the need for glacier safety training, it’s essential to go with a guide. “ KatlaTrack offers tours to the best and most accessible ice caves every year.”

OX Restaurant

One of the best and most unique dining experiences in Iceland, Michelin-starred OX Restaurant serves flavorful fine dining dishes in an intimate, 16-seat counter setting. “The chef doesn’t just prepare incredible food with local products but also shares the story of where the ingredients came from and the inspiration behind the dishes,” adds Connolly.

Hailed as the best new restaurant in Reykjavik by both critics and diners, Oto is a rather unique concept. “On paper, a culinary fusion of Japanese and Spanish influences made with Icelandic ingredients sounds quite unconventional. I’m this case, thinking outside the box results in some exceptional sharing dishes,” says Connolly. “Don’t forget to try the cocktails and mocktails.”

Fish Company

Tucked inside the old Zimsen building, a former store built in the 19th century, the Fish Company feels at once contemporary and cozy — a style also reflected in the seasonally influenced menu. Chef Lárus Gunnar Jónasson whips up gourmet fare with an emphasis on local seafood and other fresh Icelandic ingredients. 

You have to take a 45-minute ferry to the Westman Islands to reach Næs (pronounced like "nice"). “I make the trip time and time again because it’s such a lovely place with delicious food,” says Powers. “The sweet tomatoes and stracciatella alone are well worth the journey.

Moss Restaurant

The perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or savor a spectacular post-spa meal, the Michelin-starred Moss Restaurant occupies the top floor of the Blue Lagoon Icelandic ingredients shine in wildly creative ways through chef-prepared coursed menus — including a vegan option. "Every course was delicious," said Baral, "But I will say the cod crisps were addictive — light, crispy, and flavorful. It was created to use the entire fish and minimize food waste."

Powers advises to “ask for a tour of the wine cellar, where world-class vintages are held underground in an alcove between volcanic rocks.”

Iceland is a country of extremes in many ways. The best time to visit really depends on what you’re hoping to see and do. Peak viewing season for the northern lights stretches from September through March, but the country also gets quite cold then and daylight only lasts about five hours. Connolly also steers visitors away from attempting to navigate Route 1 between mid-October and mid-April. "Regardless of how good or skilled of a driver you are, it’s about changing weather and road closures.” 

The period between early June and late August brings temperate weather for visiting countless natural wonders. Travelers should be advised to bring a sleeping mask — at the height of summer, the sun stays up until the middle of the night. 

Icelandair and PLAY operate low-cost direct flights between many major U.S. airports and Reykjavik. You can usually score a deal, which makes a trip to Iceland — or a multi-day stopover on the way to another European destination — an economical (and exciting) option.

Reykjavik: Vibrant, welcoming, and gorgeous, Reykjavik is the capital and most popular tourist destination in Iceland. This makes sense given that it’s the largest city, close to the airport, and in the middle of some of the most famous landmarks. 

Kridtin Wongpoovarak/Getty Images

Akureyri: Sometimes referred to as the “capital of the North,” Akureyri is a port city at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord that’s home to Akureyri Church, the Akureyri Botanical Garden, and some of the best whale watching in the world, plus

Húsavík: Most people visit Húsavík to see Húsavíkurkirkja, the iconic wooden church built in 1907. Travelers will also enjoy the geothermal baths and Húsavík Whale Museum. 

Höfn: Primarily known for scenic views of the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice cap in Europe, the fishing town of Höfn in southeast Iceland also supplies shoals and beaches that make it a popular film location. 

Vík í Mýrdal: A village of just 300 people, Vík í Mýrdal (or just Vík) ranks among the most popular stops on the Ring Road for those taking the south coast sightseeing route. Two of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls — Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss — sit between Reykjavik and Vík, making the two-and-a-half-hour drive more than worth it. On clear days, the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers are visible, too. However, the biggest draw is without question the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara.

Ísafjörður: Surrounded by sweeping vistas, Ísafjörður hosts Iceland's popular musical festivals — the Ísafjörður Rock Festival and Við Djúpið Music Festival. "If you make it here, definitely visit Tjöruhúsið for a meal," said Baral. "The restaurant serves the daily fresh catch in a family-style buffet in the warmer months."

Vestmannaeyjar: A volcanic archipelago off Iceland’s south coast Vestmannaeyjar (or the Westman Islands) is accessible by ferry. It’s a must-visit to see some diverse wildlife — including puffins and Beluga whales.

Iceland has one main highway, called Ring Road or Route 1. As you might expect based on the name, it goes all the way around the island country. Many of the most famous and beautiful natural wonders sit along or near this route. Most travelers start in Reykjavik, the city closest to Keflavík International Airport (KEF), and either rent a car and do a self-drive itinerary or arrange a multi-day tour through one of the many local operators. Within the capital, it’s possible to utilize the public bus service or take a shuttle to attractions such as the Blue Lagoon.

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Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about Iceland here. Nordic Visitor’s travel guide includes all the essential information, including top attractions, preparation tips, and popular ways to travel.

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Most popular places

Take a look at these incredible bucket list destinations in Iceland.

• Þingvellir National Park
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Blue Lagoon
• Lake Mývatn
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• Seljalandsfoss
• Goðafoss
• Húsavík
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• Central Highlands of Iceland
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I must tell you that my tour with you is probably THE best tour I've ever taken (and I've taken a lot). My guide Rico set a bar so high that I don’t know i...

Iceland is a place where nature reigns supreme - find out how to make the most of your time with our Iceland travel guide. Aside from the modern and cosmopolitan capital, Reykjavík, population centres are small, with diminutive towns, fishing villages, farms and minute hamlets clustered along the coastal fringes. The interior of the country, meanwhile, is a starkly beautiful wilderness of ice fields, windswept upland plateaux, infertile lava and ash deserts, and the frigid vastness of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier.

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Iceland travel itineraries, best things in iceland, swimming and hot pools in iceland, fishing in iceland, hiking in iceland, horseriding in iceland, snow sports in iceland, festivals in iceland, travel visa requirements for iceland, travel safety in iceland.

Iceland’s location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge also gives it one of the most volcanically active landscapes on Earth. It is peppered with everything from naturally occurring hot springs, scaldingly hot bubbling mud pools and noisy steam vents to a string of unpredictably violent volcanoes, which have regularly devastated huge parts of the country.

Travel to Iceland and you can visit intriguing museums, take part in good old-fashioned rúntur pub crawls, seek out puffin colonies, marvel at the Northern Lights, or go whale-watching. It’s the kind of country that has to be seen to be believed. Our Iceland travel guide will give you the tools you need to plan your trip and find unique things to do , but you’ll have to experience it for yourself to truly understand its allure.

• Language: Icelandic
• Currency: króna (krónur in the plural), abbreviated to either Isk, Ikr or kr. notes are issued in 5000kr, 2000kr, 1000kr and 500kr denominations
• Population: Iceland’s population is tiny – at barely 323,000, it’s no bigger than many towns in other countries
• Tourism numbers : Tourism to Iceland has rocketed in recent years – visitor numbers rose from a million in 2015 to over two million in 2018, six times the national population
• Literary talent: Iceland boasts more writers per capita than any other country in the world. The long dark winter months are said to be the reason so many folk put pen to paper, and native- language books on all matters Icelandic can be found in shops across the country.
• Historical ‘sagas’: Iceland is famous for its ‘sagas’ - epic tales based on events that happened from approximately 9AD-11AD. Reykjavík’s Landnámssýningin museum (Saga Museum) boasts some of Europe’s oldest and finest medieval manuscripts.

Gullfoss, the Golden Falls - one of the sights to include in your trip to Iceland © Thomas Lusth/Shutterstock

Most people visiting Iceland travel to Reykjavík , and it is certainly not a place to miss. Yet Iceland has so much more to offer, and as every good Iceland travel guide will tell you, you need to go beyond Reykjavík and into the wild.

To see the wild side of Iceland, travel on Route 1, the Ringroad, where you’ll see brilliant green wide spaces, red and black sands on pristine coastlines, and brooding hills and mountains.

Travel to Iceland’s most dramatic scenery, the West Fjords , where little fishing villages sit snugly below table-top mountains. Ísafjörður's proximity to the wilds of the Hornstrandir peninsula makes for fantastic hiking opportunities. However, if you want the least touristy part of Iceland, head for the East Fjords .

Make time for a stop off in Akureyri , Iceland's second largest town. Known as the capital of the north, it's a relaxing place to spend a couple of days, with cafés and restaurants and a wonderful botanical garden. It's also a good jumping off point for visits to Lake Mývatn, the island's most visited attraction after Reykjavík, as well as Húsavík and the Jökulsárgljúfur National Park.

For puffin spotting you can't go wrong with Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands and the location of one of the largest puffin colonies in the world. It's also the site of a solidified lavafield, the result of a huge eruption in 1973 which destroyed much of the town below.

Isafjordur in the West Fjords is one of the best placese to go in Iceland - © Shutterstock

Discover more places in Iceland

• Northwest Iceland Travel Guide
• Southwestern Iceland Travel Guide
• The west coast Travel Guide
• The West Fjords Travel Guide

When you visit Iceland you will quickly find that you can’t rely on the weather. Icelandic weather is spectacularly changeable. Although summer sees its fair share of sunny days with temperatures sometimes climbing to 17°C, it can just as easily drop to 10°C and landscapes can suddenly be shrouded in mist and rain.

Your Iceland travel plans might also need to take into account the sun patterns. Although almost all of Iceland lies south of the Arctic Circle and therefore doesn’t experience a true Midnight Sun, nights are light from mid-May to early August across the country; in the north, the sun never fully sets during June. In winter, temperatures in Iceland fluctuate at 7–8°C either side of freezing point and daylight is limited to a few hours – in Reykjavík, sunrise isn’t until almost 11am in December; the sun is already sinking slowly back towards the horizon after 1pm.

If you want to make the most of the tourist attractions, then the best time to visit Iceland is between late May and early September, when most museums and attractions are open. Travelling around Iceland is easier at these times, too, as this is when buses run their fullest schedules. However, if your main reason for travelling to Iceland is to see the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, then you’d be best off going between September and January – this is when the natural phenomenon can often be seen throughout the country.

Check the best time to travel to Iceland for seeing the Norther Lights - © Shutterstock

When you visit Iceland you’ll most probably be heading to Keflavík International Airport, about 40km west of Reykjavík. This airport is connected by plentiful flights to Europe, the UK, Scandinavia, the US, and Canada.

It’s also possible to travel to Iceland year-round by sea via the Faroese super- ferry Norröna, which performs a regular crossing of the North Atlantic.

Once you’re there, Iceland’s small scale makes getting around fairly straightforward – at least during the warmer months. From Reykjavík, it’s possible to fly or catch a bus to all major centres, and in the summer there are even scheduled buses through the Interior.

On the ground, you’ll probably spend a good deal of time on Route 1, or the Ringroad (known in Icelandic as the Hringbraut ), which largely follows the coast in a 1500km circuit of the country via Reykjavík, Akureyri, Egilsstaðir and Höfn. Virtually the entire Ringroad is sealed, and in winter snow ploughs do their best to keep the route open to all vehicles.

Elsewhere, while stretches around towns might be surfaced, the majority of Icelandic roads are gravel. While many of these are accessible to all vehicles, some – such as most roads through the Interior – are only negotiable in high-clearance four-wheel-drives.

Hiking in Hornstrandir

One of the best ways to see Iceland is by hiking. This way you’ll get the best views of the outstanding and beautiful Icelandic landscapes. The total remoteness and majestic landscape make isolated Hornstrandir a fantastic destination for dedicated hikers. Once you’ve seen the remote snow-covered hills and cliffs of the Snæ allaströnd coastline, you’ll have an idea of what lies immediately north. A claw-shaped peninsula of land bordered by the Jökul rðir ords to the south and the Greenland Sea to the north, and attached to the rest of the West Fjords by a narrow neck of land just 6km wide, Hornstrandir represents Iceland’s very last corner of inhospitable terrain where habitation was at least attempted – the last settlements here were abandoned in the 1950s due to the harsh climate – and its coastline is the most magnificent in the country.

The Interior

Nothing you might see elsewhere in Iceland prepares you for the desolate, raw beauty of the barren upland plateau that is the Interior – known in Icelandic as hálendið or “highlands” – Europe’s last true wilderness. The violence of the elements here means that Iceland’s heart is a desolate and uninhabited place, with no towns or villages, just cinematic vistas of seemingly infinite grey gravel plains, glacial rivers and lava fields punctuated by ice caps, volcanoes and jagged mountains.

See Strokkur erupting at Geysir, after which all geysers are named. Visible from many kilometres away as a pall of steam rising above the plains, hot springs at the Geysir thermal area bubble out over a grassy slope at the foot of Bjarnfell, studded with circular pools atop grey, mineral-streaked mounds. The area has been active for thousands of years, but the springs’ positions have periodically shifted as geological seams crack open or close down; the current vents appeared following a thirteenth-century earthquake.

Whale watching at Húsavík © SasinTipchai/Shutterstock

Whale watching in Húsavík

Get up close to minke and humpback whales on a whale-watching tour from Húsavík. Despite the resumption of commercial whaling in 2006, whale stocks off Húsavík remain high, and the chances of seeing some are good. Dolphins, porpoises and medium-sized minke whales are encountered most frequently, with much larger humpback whales runners-up; these are identified by lengthy flippers and their habit of “breaching” – making spectacular, crashing leaps out of the water. Similar-looking fin whales are the next most likely candidates, with rarer sightings of colossal blue whales, orca and square-headed sperm whales.

The Northern Lights

Thanks to its northerly location, Iceland is a great place from which to see the Aurora Borealis. Take one of the special tours which operate from Reykjavík and prepare to be amazed. The best time to see the Northern Lights is usually between October and March, and one of the best ways to view them is to take a boat trip from Reykjavík harbour, which allows you to get well away from the city lights. Bear in mind, though, that the sky needs to be clear and free of cloud; on days when it’s too windy to put out to sea, the tour transfers to a coach that drives out of the city.

Auror Borealis or Northern Lights © MikeDrago.cz/Shutterstock

Iceland’s best beaches

The empty, golden strands at Breiðavík in the West Fjords are sublime on a sunny day, and the black volcanic sands near Vík on the south coast are equally compelling. The idyllic Breiðavík bay has open views westwards over white sand to the aquamarine waters of the Atlantic. This exquisite beach, without a doubt one of Iceland’s finest, is irresistible, and when the sun shines the sands are seen to their best advantage.

The Museum of Witchcraft and Sorcery

Galdrasýning á Ströndum (Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft) is an offbeat exhibition in the West Fjords. In The Rough Guide to Everywhere travel podcast we spoke to the founder and owner of this unusual place and you can listen to the full episode here .

Iceland’s difficult terrain takes time to negotiate, and you can’t cover the country in a single trip. Forward-planning, researching different itineraries, will ensure you get the best Iceland trip to suit your time and budget.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Iceland, created by local experts

8 days  / from 2092 USD

Iceland: A Game of Thrones Road Trip

This themed road trip will take you around Iceland, home to many filming locations of the hit TV series, Game of Thrones. Travel around the country's coastline, past the many dramatic glaciers and cliffs, relax in geothermal spas, and spot whales in the rough seas. Warning: Spoiler alert!

8 days  / from 2052 USD

Iceland's Wild West

Welcome to the road trip of a lifetime, which will bring you to some of western Iceland’s wildest and most remote spots. On this adventure, you will pay unforgettable visits to Hraunfossar Waterfalls, as well as the Barnafoss and Deildartunguhver hot springs, and much more!

6 days  / from 1680 USD

Iceland's Highlights from East to West

Take a flight to the East where you get to enjoy the enchanting Eastfjords before you drive south. If you are looking to focus on a few regions with a mix of the most popular sights and something off the beaten path; and to avoid backtracking with a one-way domestic flight, this is the perfect trip.

Our Grand Tour concentrates on Iceland’s main sights, while our other Iceland routes focus on two fascinating regions, the island’s west and north, and the south and east.

Grand Tour of Iceland

Two weeks in Iceland and no idea where to start? Our Grand Tour puts you on the right track.

• Reykjavík Though one of Europe’s smaller capitals, the vibrant heart of Iceland offers everything from style-conscious bars and restaurants to great museums and galleries.
• Blue Lagoon Take a dip in the sublime waters of this famous open-air swimming pool, fed by geothermal water and set in the middle of a lavafield.
• Golden Circle See Þingvellir, site of Iceland’s original open-air parliament, hot waterspouts at Geysir, and a stunning two-tier waterfall at Gullfoss.
• Akureyri Chill on the north coast in Iceland’s second-largest town, renowned for its sunny summer days and thriving bar and restaurant scene.
• Húsavík Whale watching is on everybody’s list of must-dos in Iceland, and the expertly run tours from Húsavík offer virtually guaranteed sightings.
• Lake Mývatn A proliferation of geological oddities, from bubbling mud pools to steam vents, clustered around a beautiful lake teeming with birdlife.

You can travel our suggested itineraries independently, but you can also book your Iceland trip through the Rough Guides Tailor-Made Trips service. Use the suggested itineraries as inspiration and let us know what exactly you’d like to do. Our Iceland travel expert will plan a bespoke trip especially for you, which you can modify until you are completely happy.

Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral, Reykjavik © Ververidis Vasilis/Shutterstock

The lava plains, black-sand deserts, glacier-capped plateaux, alpine meadows, convoluted fjords and capricious volcanoes that make Iceland such an extraordinary place also offer tremendous potential for outdoor activities.

Whether you’ve come for wildlife or to hike, ride, ski, snowmobile or four-wheel-drive your way across the horizon, these activities are all on offer. Further information is always at hand in local tourist offices, while you can find out more about the few national parks and reserves from the Department of Forestry or various Icelandic hiking organizations.

Many activities can be undertaken as part of an organized tour, sometimes with the necessary gear supplied or available for rent. Check out our list of favourite activities in Iceland here.

You probably won’t be travelling to Iceland to swim, but in fact this is a major year-round social activity with Icelanders. Just about every settlement has a swimming pool, usually an outdoor affair and heated by the nearest hot spring to around 28˚C. There are also almost always one or two spa baths or hot pots, providing much hotter soaks at 35–40˚C – another great Icelandic institution, and particularly fun in winter, when you can sit up to your neck in near-scalding water while the snow falls thickly around you.

Out in the wilds, hot pots are replaced by natural hot springs – a welcome way to relax trail-weary muscles.

Icelandic swimming pools have their own etiquette that you need to follow. Remove your shoes before entering the changing rooms (there will be a rack in the pool lobby); leave your towel in the shower area between the changing rooms and the pool, not in your locker (this is so you can towel off before returning to the changing rooms, keeping them dry); and shower fully, with soap and without swimwear, before getting in the pool. Note that though there are always separate male and female changing rooms, very few pools have private cubicles.

As Iceland is surrounded by the richest fishing grounds in the North Atlantic, sea fishing has always been seen as more of a career than a sport. The country’s rivers and lakes, however, are also well stocked with salmon and trout, pulling in hordes of fly fishers during the fishing season (April 1 to September 20 for trout; June 20 to mid-September for salmon). Both fish are plentiful in all the country’s bigger waterways, though the finest salmon is said to come from the Laxá in northeast Iceland, and the Rangá in the south. During the winter, people cut holes in the ice and fish for arctic char; the best spots for this are at Þingvallavatn and Mývatn.

You always need a permit to fish. Those for char or trout are fairly cheap and easy to obtain on the spot from local tourist offices and some accommodation, but permits for salmon are extremely expensive and often need to be reserved a year in advance, as there is a limit per river. For further information, contact the Federation of Icelandic River Owners, whose website has a huge amount of English-language information.

Hiking gets you closer to the scenery than anything else in Iceland. In reserves and national parks you’ll find a few marked trails, though even here guideposts tend to be erratic and you’ll always need to be competent at using navigational aids, especially in poor weather.

However long you’re hiking for, always carry warm, weatherproof clothing, food and water (there are plenty of places where porous soil makes finding surface water unlikely), as well as a torch, lighter, penknife, first aid kit, a foil insulation blanket and a whistle or mirror for attracting attention. The country is carpeted in sharp rocks and rough ground, so good-quality, tough hiking boots are essential – though a pair of neoprene surf boots with thick soles are useful to ford rivers.

When and where to hike

The best months for hiking are June through to August, when the weather is relatively warm, flowers are in bloom, and the wildlife is out and about – though even then the Interior and higher ground elsewhere can get snowbound at short notice. Outside the prime time, weather is very problematic and you might not be able to reach the area you want to explore, let alone hike around it.

One of the beauties of Iceland is that you can walk just about anywhere, assuming you can cope with local conditions, though there are, of course, highlights. Close to Reykjavík, the Reykjanes Peninsula offers extended treks across imposingly desolate lava rubble; there are some short, easy hikes along steaming valleys near Hveragerði, while trails at Þingvellir include historic sites and an introduction to rift valley geology. Further east, Laugavegur is an exceptional four-day trail; and Þórsmörk is one of the most popular hiking spots in the country, a wooded, elevated valley surrounded by glaciers and mountain peaks with a well-trodden network of paths.

Along the west coast, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is notoriously damp but peaks with the ice-bound summit of Snæfellsjökull, the dormant volcano used as a fictional gateway into the centre of the earth by writer Jules Verne. Further north there’s Hornstrandir, the wildest and most isolated extremity of the West Fjords, a region of twisted coastlines, sheer cliffs and rugged hill walks.

Those after an easier time should head to Mývatn, the shallow northeastern lake where you can make simple day-hikes to extinct craters, billowing mud-pits, and still steaming lava flows; longer but also relatively easy are the well-marked riverside trails around nearby Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, which features some awesome canyon scenery.

Over in the east, the best of the hikes take in the highland moors and glaciated fringes of the massive Vatnajökull ice cap: at Snæfell, a peak inland from Egilsstaðir; Lónsöræfi reserve near Höfn; and Skaftafell National Park, another popular camping spot on Vatnajökull’s southern edge.

Icelandic hikes: six of the best

• Laugavegur - An epic four-day hike over snowfields, moorland and desert between hot springs at Landmannalaugar and the highland valley of Þórsmörk.
• Jökulsárgljúfur - Straightforward though lengthy trails follow a glacier river canyon down to Europe’s largest waterfall.
• Hornstrandir - You can spend days hiking across this totally unpopulated peninsula, which is probably the wildest, most remote corner of Iceland that is still accessible.
• Þórsmörk - Isolated glacier valley in the southwest, covered in dwarf birch and wildflowers, with almost limitless hiking potential.
• Skaftafell - Easily reached moorland plateau between two glaciers, with plenty of well-marked trails of up to a day’s duration.
• Skógar to Þórsmörk - Relatively straightforward 25km hike over mountains and snowfields, passing solidified lava from the 2010 eruption.

Grading hikes

Hiking trails in Iceland are not formally graded, though local organizations sometimes use a boot icon to indicate difficulty (one boot easy, five boots tough). It’s always prudent to seek local advice about routes, but note that Icelanders, hardened since birth to the country’s conditions, tend to make light of difficulties: a “straightforward” trail often means anything that doesn’t actually involve technical skills and climbing gear, but might well include traversing knife-edge ridges or dangerously loose scree slopes.

The Blue Lagoon © Jacksoo999/Shutterstock

Horses came to Iceland with the first settlers, and have remained true to their original stocky Scandinavian breed. Horses also had a religious place in Viking times and were often dedicated or sacrificed to the pagan gods. With the advent of Christianity, eating horse meat was banned, being seen as a sign of paganism. Nowadays, horses are used for the autumn livestock round-up, and for recreational purposes.

Icelandic horses are sturdy, even-tempered creatures which, in addition to the usual walk, trot, gallop and canter, can move smoothly across rough ground using the gliding tölt gait. The biggest breeding centres are in the country’s south, but you can hire horses from farms all over Iceland, for anything from an hour in the saddle to two-week-long treks across the Interior. To organize something in advance, contact Íshestar or Eldhestar, which run treks of all lengths and experience levels right across the country.

Snow sports – which in Iceland are not just practised in winter – have, surprisingly, only recently begun to catch on. Partly this is because the bulk of Iceland’s population lives in the mild southwestern corner of the country, but also because snow was seen as just something you had to put up with; cross-country skiing, for instance, is such a fact of life in the northeastern winters that locals refer to it simply as “walking”, and were baffled when foreign tour operators first brought in groups to do it for fun.

The possibilities for cross-country skiing are pretty limitless in winter, though you’ll have to bring in your own gear. Downhill skiing and snowboarding are the most popular snow sports, with winter slopes at Bláfjöll only 20km from Reykjavík.

Plenty of tour operators offer glacier trips on snowmobiles or skidoos, which are like jet-skis for snow – the only way for the inexperienced to get a taste of Iceland’s massive ice fields, and huge fun. Several of southwestern Iceland’s larger rivers have caught the attention of whitewater rafting enthusiasts, while Iceland also has surprisingly good scuba diving potential, the prime sites being in Þingvallavatn’s cool but amazingly clear waters, at various shipwrecks, and at seal colonies around the coast. Dive Iceland can sort out the details, though you’ll need dry-suit skills.

Another thing to consider when planning your trip to Iceland, is the national holidays that take place throughout the year.

Though Iceland’s calendar is essentially Christian, many official holidays and festivals have a secular theme, and at least one dates from pagan times. Some are already familiar: Christmas, Easter Monday, and New Year are all holidays in Iceland.

• Þorrablót - February: A midwinter celebration that originally honoured the weather god Þorri, and became something to look forward to during the bleakest time of the year. Locals throw parties centred around the consumption of traditional foods such as svið and hákarl , with some restaurants also laying on special menus.
• Sjomannadagur (Seamen’s Day) - June 4: One of the biggest holidays of the year, with communities organizing mock sea-rescue demonstrations, swimming races and tug-of-war events. This is followed by another break for Independence Day (June 17), the day that the Icelandic state separated from Denmark in 1944.
• Jónsmessa - June 24: Although not an official holiday, this is the day that elves and other magical creatures are said to be out in force, playing tricks on the unwary. Some people celebrate with a big bonfire, and it’s also meant to be good for your health to run around naked.
• Verslunnarmannahelgi - first weekend of August: Traditionally, on Labour Day weekend, everybody heads into the countryside, sets up camp, and spends the rest of the holiday drinking and partying themselves into oblivion. On Heimaey in the Westman Islands, Þjódhátið is held on the same day and celebrated in the same way – there’s live music, too, and a huge bonfire – though it nominally commemorates Iceland’s achieving partial political autonomy in 1874.

Route 1, or the Ring Road © Mathias Berlin/Shutterstock

Travel advice for Iceland

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Iceland

• Sports and Outdoor activities in Iceland
• Eating and drinking in Iceland
• Getting around Iceland: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Iceland for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Iceland

Whilst visiting Iceland, be prepared to spend a fair bit of money on your expenses. If you plan transport and accommodation ahead of arrival and research all your Iceland travel essentials , it is a relatively easy place to travel.

Costs and money

Iceland is a very expensive country to visit. Iceland’s currency is the króna. You can get around Iceland without ever touching cash: almost everywhere takes credit cards.

To keep costs as low as possible try to be self-sufficient. If you're opting for budget self-catering accommodation bring a sleeping bag – and food, if possible. If you're intending to camp, bring the camping equipment you'll need. To get a few hundred krónur a night off youth hostel rates get a Hostelling International Card. And invest in a bus pass to keep transport costs down.

Mid-range travel still means using a bus pass to get around, but favouring hostels and eating out cheaply most of the time will set you back about 18,000kr a day. Staying only in guest-houses or hotels and eating in restaurants for every meal means that you’re looking at daily expenses of upwards of 30,000kr.

Alcohol is also expensive – pick up a bottle on arrival (Keflavík airport’s duty-free is the cheapest place to buy alcohol in the country) – and, with the exception of beer, it’s only sold in bars, clubs, restaurants, and state-owned liquor stores known as vinbúð.

Culture and etiquette for Iceland travellers

The major social blunders made by visitors are usually at swimming pools; make sure you follow the rules about shoes, towels, and showering.

Travellers with special needs

Iceland is fairly well-prepared for disabled travellers. New hotels are required by law to make a percentage of their rooms accessible, while transport can make provisions for wheelchair users if notified in advance.

Travelling with children

Iceland presents few difficulties for travelling with children. Icelanders are very child-friendly people; cities and towns are relatively safe, low-crime places with familiar amenities; and supermarkets and pharmacies are well stocked with nappies, formula and other items.

Citizens from Schengen countries, the European Economic Area, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other nations require no visa to visit Iceland for up to ninety days providing that their passport is valid for at least ninety days after the date of arrival. For the full list, and information on how to apply for a visa if you do require one, contact the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration (utl.is).

If you plan to stay in Iceland for over 90 days then you must apply for an Iceland residency permit. This can be done at the Embassy, Consulate, or VAC of Iceland in whichever country you live. However, always double-check the most up-to-date visa requirements before planning your trip to Iceland.

As regards customs regulations, all visitors to Iceland can bring in the following: camping gear and other travelling equipment for their own use in Iceland (including foodstuffs and other supplies, but no uncooked meat of any sort); and either 1 litre of spirits and 1 litre of wine, or 1 litre of spirits and 6 litres of beer, or 1.5 litres of wine and 6 litres of beer or 3 litres of wine. In addition to this, 200 cigarettes, or 250g of other tobacco products, are also permitted.

Iceland is a peaceful country, and it’s unlikely that you’ll encounter much trouble here. Most public places are well lit and secure, people are helpful, if somewhat reserved, and street crime and hassles are rare. needless to say, hitching alone, or wandering around central Reykjavík late at night, is unwise.

Most incidents involve petty crime and are largely confined to Reykjavík. Many criminals are drug addicts or alcoholics after easy money; keep tabs on your cash and passport (and don’t leave anything visible in your car when you park it) and you should have little reason to visit the police ( lögreglan ). If you do seek them out, you’ll find them unarmed, concerned and usually able to speak English – remember to get an insurance report from them if you have anything stolen.

As for offences you might commit, drink-driving is taken extremely seriously, so don’t do it: catch a taxi. Being incoherently drunk in public in Reykjavík might also get you into trouble, but in a country campsite you probably won’t be the only one, and (within reason) nobody is going to care. Drugs, however, are treated as harshly here as in much of the rest of Europe.

Women in Iceland

Sexual harassment is less of a problem in Iceland than elsewhere in Europe. Although you might receive occasional unwelcome attention in Reykjavík clubs, there’s very rarely any kind of violent intent. If you do have any problems, the fact that almost everyone understands English makes it easy to get across an unambiguous response.

Natural Hazards

Awareness of Iceland’s natural hazards – including the weather and geology – is taken very much for granted; don’t expect to find warning signs, safety barriers or guide ropes at even patently dangerous locations on the edge of waterfalls, volcanoes or boiling mud pits. Always exercise caution, especially at heavily touristed locations – where you’ll often see locals (and uninformed tourists) taking insane risks.

On lava, watch out for volcanic fissures, cracks in the ground ranging from a few centimetres to several metres across. These are easy enough to avoid when you can see them, but blanketed by snow they’ll be invisible, so use a hiking pole to test the path ahead.

Another hazard is river crossings, which you’ll have to make on various trails all over the country. Glacier-fed rivers are at their lowest first thing in the morning, and rise through the day as the sun melts the ice and snow that feed into them. When looking for a crossing point, remember the river will be shallowest at its widest point. Before crossing, make sure that your backpack straps are loose so that you can ditch it in a hurry if necessary. Face into the current as you cross and be prepared to give up if the water gets above your thighs. Never attempt a crossing alone, and remember that some rivers have no safe fords at all if you’re on foot – you’ll have to hitch across in a vehicle.

Top image: The village of Vík © Nido Huebl/Shutterstock

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 29.06.2021

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

The Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide For All Seasons

July 19, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   2 Comments

If you are planning your Iceland travels, this is where you should start!

This page has all of the pertinent information that you need to know all in one place so that when you are planning your Iceland travel, you can easily have this on hand!

Iceland is one of our favorite places and one of the most unique and amazing places on the planet! It is the reason so many travelers keep getting hooked and coming back again and again!

We know that planning a trip to Iceland can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Our Iceland travel guide will be a “starting off” point for you so that you can visualize a lot of our favorite and most helpful posts on this website!

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.

We will help you compare costs, find tours, choose the perfect Iceland itinerary, learn how to pack, explore different regions, and decide when the best time to travel Iceland is for you!

Luckily for you, all seasons have their benefits when visiting Iceland, it just depends on what you hope to get out of your trip!

Our detailed Iceland travel guide has come to be as a result of many trips to Iceland over the course of many years but at one point, we started just like you!

We didn’t know what to do or where to go. But with a ton of research and traveling Iceland in all seasons, we are here to make it easy for you to understand!

Below you can find a selection of our suggested Iceland travel articles to get you started on planning your trip. Our website has a whole lot more than just these articles, but this is a jumping off point for you to begin.

Make sure to search our website if you are looking for something specific because we probably just forgot to add it here!

Discover our custom Iceland travel itineraries! While we have hundreds of helpful posts, sometimes it is nice to have a pre-packaged itinerary you can use right away!

Practical Information For Traveling Iceland

Here are some practical tips and information for your Iceland travels! From money in Iceland to how much it is going to cost to visit, this is where you can start the overall planning of your journey!

• 7 Helpful Things To Know About Money In Iceland
• 12 Best Apps For Iceland To Download For Your Trip
• Prices In Iceland: How To Figure Out Your Trip Cost
• 48 Inspiring Quotes About Iceland
• What To Wear In Iceland: Iceland Packing List For Winter + Summer

When To Travel To Iceland

Of course the question of the hour is when to plan your Iceland travels! And we totally get this!

At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong time to travel to Iceland! There are pros and cons to each season and each season depends on what you are looking to get out of your trip.

We break down how to choose and the articles below can help you decide!

• How To Choose The Best Time To Visit Iceland
• 5 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In Spring
• 6 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In January
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In February
• 6 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In March
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In April
• 6 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In May
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In June
• 6 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In July
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In August
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In September
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In October
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In November
• 5 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In December

Winter Travel In Iceland

Traveling to Iceland in winter is an entirely different ballgame. Iceland is actually quite mild in winter, but there are some things you need to know in order to safely experience the country.

For example, weather changes quickly and you could be caught in a dangerous storm if you aren’t careful. And how about tips for chasing the Northern Lights?

• The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Iceland In Winter
• 10 Epic Iceland Glacier Tours
• How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours In Iceland

Iceland Travel Itineraries

After visiting Iceland many times, we like to think that our Iceland itinerary suggestions are pretty good! They have helped hundreds of thousands [no really!] of people plan their trips over the years.

Below, we break it down so that you can easily plan your trip to Iceland, no matter what amount of time you plan to be there!

• Best Iceland Itinerary Ideas From 1 Day To 2 Weeks
• The Ultimate 4 Days In Iceland Itinerary
• The Best 5 Days In Iceland Itinerary + Hidden Gems!
• The Ultimate Golden Circle Itinerary
• 60 Best Stops On Your Ring Road Itinerary
• 15 Epic Iceland Road Trip Itineraries
• The Best 3 Days In Iceland Itinerary For Any Time Of Year

Where To Stay In Iceland

Somehow, Iceland has a lot of places and very few places to stay! There are lots of places if you know the right spots, or it can feel like options are limited if you aren’t looking in the right places.

Luckily for you, we know all the right places to look and have compiled these lists of where to stay during your Iceland travels. This includes tips and help for all budgets.

Whether you are visiting Iceland on large budget or a shoestring budget, there is somewhere amazing for you to stay!

• Best Airbnbs in Iceland (Cabins, Cottages And More)
• Where To Stay In Iceland: Best Hotels By Area
• Exactly Where To Stay In Reykjavik On Any Budget
• The Ultimate Guide To Camping In Iceland
• 15 Best Luxury Hotels In Iceland
• 15 Best Hotels In Vik Iceland
• 12 Best Akureyri Hotels And Hostels For All Budgets
• 12 Best Hofn Hotels And Hostels For All Budgets

Best Tours And Day Trips In Iceland

Depending on your travel style, you may want to do a variety of tours during your Iceland trip! We have done many tours in Iceland and there are some experiences you can’t even have on your own!

If you aren’t usually a tour person, that is okay! But just keep in mind that some experiences such as glacier hikes or whale watching must be done on a tour.

We have pulled together a great deal of information on affordable and high quality tours to experience during your travels to Iceland!

• 16 Best Tours In Iceland
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours
• 14 Best Golden Circle Tours
• 26 Best Day Tripos From Reykjavik

Driving In Iceland

Don’t want to do a tour and prefer to drive? That is okay! This is probably the most important Iceland travel section as it is highly important to safely drive a car in Iceland!

Even if you are taking some tours, you may want to drive as it is! Here are our massive posts on driving in Iceland that you really should read!

• Everything You Need To Know Before Driving In Iceland
• 7 Big Mistakes To Avoid When Renting A Car In Iceland

Things To Do In Iceland

There are so many things to do in Iceland! We have an entire tab/section about this on our website and we couldn’t possibly list all of the amazing things to do and see here!

We are going to throw in a few posts to start you off, but we highly suggest heading to our things to do tab to learn more! This will help inspire your Iceland travel itinerary.

• 40 Bucket-List Things To Do In Iceland
• The Complete Guide To The Blue Lagoon In Iceland
• Pretty Cities And Towns In Iceland
• Golden Circle Iceland: Best Stops, Driving Tips And Tours
• 8 Amazing National Parks In Iceland
• 11 Prettiest Churches In Iceland
• 17 Unique Things To Do In Reykjavik
• 30 Best Iceland Waterfalls
• 60 Best Iceland Ring Road Stops
• 10 Best Places To See In South Iceland
• 18 Best Places To See In North Iceland
• Visiting Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• 5 Things To Know About Skogafoss Waterfall Iceland
• Tips For Visiting Bruafoss Waterfall
• 14 Best Things To Do In East Iceland
• 11 Best Easy Hikes In Iceland That Will Blow Your Mind
• 7 Big Mistakes To Avoid At The Iceland Plane Crash
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula: 10 Epic Stops
• 5 Things To Know Before Visiting Westfjords Iceland
• 5 Things To Know Before Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall
• 12 Magical Secret Spots And Hidden Gems In Iceland
• 5 Magical Black Sand Beaches In Iceland

Reykjavik Planning Tips

Ah Reykjavik, the capital that everyone must see once! Personally, we don’t suggest more than a half day in Reykjavik because we prefer the nature, but everyone is different!

If you want to see Reykjavik or use it as your home base for your Iceland travels, this is the section for you!

• 17 Unique Things To Do in Reykjavik
• 26 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik
• 10 Best Places To See The Northern Lights in Reykjavik
• 15 Best Restaurants In Reykjavik You Must Try

Romantic Iceland Travel Planning

Iceland is one of the most romantic destinations on earth! Many people plan their honeymoon, elopement, proposal, or wedding in Iceland.

If you fit into any of these categories, then this is the section of this Iceland travel guide for you! We hope you have a wonderful time!

• How To Plan A Wildly Romantic Iceland Honeymoon
• How To Plan Your Dream Iceland Wedding
• The Ultimate Guide To The Blue Lagoon

We hope that you found our Iceland travel guide to be a helpful starting off point for planning your dream trip to Iceland! Iceland is truly one of our favorite places on earth and we are happy to help answer any questions! Feel free to comment below or contact us by email!

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23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Iceland

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 14, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Explore Reykjavik by Foot

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Hallgrímstorg 1 101, Reykjavik

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

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

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

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

Address: Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Ægisgardur 5, Reykjavik's Old Harbor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavik

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Best Black Sand Beaches in the World

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Iceland

• Facts About Iceland
• A Country for All Seasons
• Nature´s Variety show
• Summerhouses & Cottages
• Hotels and Guesthouses
• Farm Hollydays
• TravelGuide
• National Parks
• Culture and Arts
• Dining & Entertainment
• Festivities
• Online Casinos

The world you have never seen in ICELAND

Discover iceland.

Discover Iceland tourist destination by following the best guide to Iceland. Think of Iceland and there are several familiar associations: hip Reykjavík, the beautiful therapeutic Blue Lagoon, or perhaps our musical exports Björk or Sigur Rós. But this land of boiling mud pools, spurting geysers, glaciers and waterfalls is also an adventure playground. Its breathtaking landscape is an inspiration to artists and photographers. Iceland is the least densely populated country in Europe, with a pure, unpolluted and truly magical landscape. Iceland’s summers are surprisingly warm, lush and green, with days lengthening until midsummer, when the sun dips down to the horizon but never sets. During winter you can marvel at the amazing, undulating green, blue, yellow and pink lights of the aurora in the night sky, and the winters are not as cold as you might imagine. And if they are quite cold, you could stay at your cozy hotel and grab a cup of hot cocoa and visit the 5 Star Online Casino where you will get extremely low wagering bonuses that will minimize the risk and requirements when it comes to betting with your own money. Regardless of when you visit, you can be assured of the warmth of the Icelanders’ welcome and their desire to share their culture and make every effort to ensure that your stay is a pleasant one.

Tourism in Iceland

People from all over the world come to see and experience Iceland’s nature, culture, calm, and peaceful atmosphere. There are a lot of tourists that visit Iceland, around 1,5 million per year and contribute from 5% to 10% on the country’s GDP.

Business Iceland is a public-private partnership established to lead the promotion and marketing of Iceland. The job of Business Iceland is to promote and encourage demand for Iceland’s vast array of products, services, investment opportunities, and as an exotic location for film and television shooting.

Íslandstofa takes care of branding and marketing for Iceland and Icelandic export industries, supports Icelandic companies in entering foreign markets and paves the way for foreign investment in the Icelandic economy.

Iceland’s Online Casino

We asked some of the local people, and they said that there are a few of Iceland’s online casinos, but they are not very popular among the people because they are new. They have ads on local websites and Facebook, and some people have given it a try, and they are positively surprised by the variety of slots games that are available.

Pick Your Online Casino

On Iceland tourist boards you will not find any land casinos, video poker, slot games or blackjack rooms. There are some bingo games available, and sports betting is legal, but Iceland’s government does not bother if you play on foreign online casino. We have some friends that live in Iceland, and they say that even the Icelandic people play on the mobile casino that comes from a different country.

Their GDP is high, and their tax is law, they don’t need the extra tax revenue that can be provided from gambling. It’s not declared the happiest country in the world for no reason.

Nature´s variety show

Geologically speaking, Iceland is a very young country; its creation began less than 20 million years ago and is still progressing today. Volcanic eruptions in the Mid Atlantic Ridge, on the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean, created a mountain which grew above sea level, resulting in an island. So Iceland truly has a volcanic origin.This Iceland Travel Blog is a travel guide where you can find travel torus and the most wanted Iceland tourist destination.

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News and Updates

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Iceland Tourism Blog offers you a great variety of tours, some covering large parts of the country, others small areas at a time.There are traditional Iceland travel tours as well as tours quite different from what can be experienced elsewhere. There are nature tours with striking landscapes, young lava fields, roaring waterfalls and majestic glacial ice-caps. In addition, there are organized day tours, and weekend and holiday tours all year round with Icelandic touring clubs where the emphasis is on hiking. As you can see this blog is the best travel guide to Iceland.

Pround Numbers

Facts about Iceland

Iceland is an island of 103.000 km2 (39,756 sq.miles), about one-third larger than Scotland or Ireland. Its highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur, rises to 2.119 m and over 11 per cent of the country is covered by glaciers, including Vatnajökull, the largest in Europe. If you are mountain lover, you might be interested in discovering some tourism information about Iceland, with a little help of this Iceland Tourism Blog.

Tallest Mountain is 2119m

Longest river is 230km

Tallest waterfall is 190m

Largest glacier is 8300km2

Choose from where you want to travel.

Under the Ministry of Industries and Innovation there is the independent authority of the Iceland Tourism Board, who depends on tourism to prosper. Visit the Iceland Tourism Information Office and get to know all possible activities you can do while staying in Iceland.

Iceland Travel Guide This Iceland Travel Blog offers you practical information and useful tips, so you don’t miss the most famous landmarks, mountains, glaciers, caves and many more things in Iceland that are worth to be visited. So many fun activities to try. You can check out Lake Thórisvatn from a different perspective and book a boat. The experience is equally enjoyable as Lake Tahoe boat rentals . You can travel to The best Travel Guide to Iceland can help you plan your holiday, whether you travel during summer or winter season .

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Scenic 4-Day Northern Lights Tour of Vatnajokull Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon & the South Coast

10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes, one week spring break travel package to iceland, best 1-week summer self-drive tour of the ring road of iceland & golden circle.

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Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Visit a Live Volcano

Find the Northern Lights

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

Reykjavik, Iceland Travel Guide: Explore The Culture Beyond The Northern Lights

F or a destination that’s equal parts enchanting and otherworldly, look no further than Reykjavik, Iceland. The charming capital city offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes and the ethereal Northern Lights. Nature lovers, art enthusiasts and foodies can all find something to enjoy in this destination.

• Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), October to April (off-season), May to June and September to October (shoulder season)
• Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
• Currency: ISK (Icelandic Króna or kr)
• Noteworthy: Winter Lights Festival (February), Reykjavik Jazz Festival (August), Culture Night or Menningarnótt (August), Reykjavik International Film Festival or RIFF (September), Iceland Airwaves (November)
• Best for: Culture & History, Art & Music Festivals, Adventure Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Northern Lights Chasers

Play: Things To Do In The Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik food walk – local foodie adventure in iceland.

The Reykjavik Food Walk in Iceland is a must for foodie travelers seeking a true taste of Iceland. This 3-hour guided walking tour immerses guests in Reykjavik’s rich culinary local scene. Guests will savor eight or more delectable Icelandic dishes across four to six local spots from food trucks to fine-dining spots. The food walk includes passing iconic landmarks, like Parliament House and the Hallgrimskirkja. Along with the tastings, each walk has a knowledgeable guide that shares local history as guests indulge in Icelandic hot dogs, cheeses, homemade ice cream and more.

Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik with PRO photos

As one of Iceland’s highest-rated tours, the Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik with PRO photos is the ultimate excursion. Visitors will witness the iconic Northern Lights while enjoying complimentary homemade hot chocolate, warm wool blankets and mouthwatering cinnamon buns. Capture memories with free high-quality photos of guests and the lights. With a small family-run company, unmatched service by expert local guides, this tour guarantees the best shot to marvel at the Northern Lights.

The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik

The ultimate Icelandic itinerary has to include The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik. Visitors encounter majestic humpback, orca, blue and minke whales, as they venture into the heart of their natural habitat aboard a cruise. Guided by marine experts, this tour ensures there is minimal disturbance to these remarkable creatures as guests see the Faxafloi Bay’s currents renowned for prime whale watching. There’s no fear of embracing the elements with provided overalls, raincoats and blankets. There’s free WiFi and admission to the Wildlife Exhibition onboard.

Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater

Visiting Iceland means booking a comprehensive day trip to the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater. In a small group, explore Thingvellir, Geysir Hot Spring, Gullfoss waterfall and the stunning Kerid crater. The country’s natural wonders can be seen from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle with free WiFi. The day concludes by unwinding in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. While food and drinks aren’t covered, scheduled stops provide opportunities for refreshments and a complimentary drink at the Blue Lagoon.

Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik

The Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik is an exhilarating excursion that connects nature, culture and community. Guests will see the captivating landscapes of Iceland on this guided tour. Ideal for both beginners and experienced riders, this adventure offers a unique way to explore the country’s remote wonders. This tour is thoughtfully tailored to personal riding proficiency. For a comfortable experience, there is coffee, tea or hot chocolate provided. All equipment, including helmets, rubber boots, rain gear, and warm overalls, is complimentary.

Gourmet: Best Restaurants In Reykjavik, Iceland

Matur og drykkur (food or drink).

Matur og Drykkur, Icelandic for food or drink, creates classical Icelandic cuisine with a modern flair. This family restaurant is committed to reinventing recipes sourced from historic Icelandic cookbooks with their own twist. Using only the finest local ingredients, every element of the menu is freshly homemade. It is housed within a historic Salt Fish factory by the harbor, which creates a cultured ambiance. Enjoy the local Icelandic classic by booking a table and indulging in their six-course Chef’s dining experience.

Baka Baka is a two-level bakery and restaurant that shares the best of both worlds with guests. By day, visitors can indulge in delectable pastries and freshly baked bread while sipping aromatic coffee from their bakery. As the sun sets, this spot transforms into a restaurant with delicious fire-baked pizzas, pasta and a selection of exceptional natural wines. From sunrise to sunset, BakaBaka is a culinary journey that’s worth a breakfast or lunch date.

The harmony of the Nordic-Italian fusion concept at Mat Bar in Reykjavik is one-of-a-kind. Nestled in the heart of the city, this chef-driven gem offers seasonal tapas that delight the taste buds. Guests can enjoy a deliciously baked cheese flatbread drizzled with wasabi honey and walnuts, then a mozzarella di bufala tapas with pickled tomatoes and basil, and finish with an indulgent affogato of espresso and vanilla ice cream. The art of blending flavors creates a dining experience that’s unique to Icelandic culture.

Sweet Aurora

With a mission to share French culinary delights, pastry chef and owner Aurora created the delectable fusion of Icelandic charm and French pastry mastery that is Sweet Aurora in Reykjavik. The menu includes classics like lemon meringue tart, Tonka bean cream-filled chocolate eclairs, and apricot macarons with rosemary-white chocolate ganache. There are seasonal twists, like “volcano macarons,” with smoked chocolate ganache. The all-female team also crafts custom seasonal delights to order, like Fraisier cake and strawberry tart.

Kaffivagninn

The heart of Reykjavik’s culinary history can be found nestled in the Old Harbour at Kaffivagninn. Opened in 1935, it’s the oldest restaurant in Iceland. This charming breakfast and lunch spot lets travelers mingle with locals over scrumptious meals. Weekdays offer a 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., breakfast featuring delightful chia porridge. On weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., brunch platters are loaded with savory and sweet variety, or opt for pancake and French toast platters. The menu includes Icelandic specialties, like smoked trout omelets, fish stew gratin and Danish-style butter breads with a selection of traditional spreads.

Stay: Best Places to Stay in Reykjavik, Iceland

Spacious lovely icelandic flat by the sea.

There is a Spacious Lovely Icelandic Flat By The Sea in the highly sought-after Vesturbær neighborhood. This Airbnb spot is a 15 to 20-minute stroll downtown complemented by a walking path across a scenic shoreline. Guests can enjoy easy access to the local swimming pool, coffee houses, restaurants, bakeries and gourmet food stores. The newly renovated apartment has a modern kitchen, an open layout with ceiling-high openings, and abundant natural light. The generous living space and two large bedrooms accommodate single and medium groups of up to 5 people. Guests can easily stay connected with free WiFi and unwind with both Apple TV and Netflix. 

Cheerful Newly Renovated Downtown Apartment

The Cheerful Newly Renovated Downtown Apartment in the heart of Reykjavik is a 3-bedroom Airbnb gem. Mere steps from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, it is a 4-minute walk to top-tier swimming pools and neighbors Iceland’s premier organic bakeries.  All of the city’s finest dining, entertainment and attractions are within walking distance. Preferably, quieter guests looking for a more peaceful stay would enjoy this stay with a serene atmosphere that is family-friendly. Be mindful of the noise restrictions after 11 p.m., and it is a smoke-free environment, so be mindful of that when booking a stay. 

The Kex Hostel is housed in a former biscuit factory and uses salvaged materials and found treasures. The vintage-industrial aesthetics with a contemporary twist adds to the authenticity of the space. They have dorms and rooms for up to 215 guests plus a bar, restaurant, lounge and heated patio for guest use. Local cafes, museums, shops, and music venues are a short walk away from the city center. It is a truly unique stay with an eclectic library and reading lounge, two guest kitchens, a heated outdoor patio and access to 24/7 reception. They have on-site eats, like the brand new pop-up bar & restaurant, FLATUS, and their breakfast buffet called BAXTUR.

Get Away: Getting To and Around Reykjavik, Iceland

By air .

The main gateway to reach Reykjavik, Iceland is Keflavik International Airport. It is located about 31 miles southwest of the city center. Various airlines offer direct flights from major cities worldwide. Before landing, travelers can see truly stunning aerial views of Iceland’s rugged landscapes. There are efficient transportation options from the airport to Reykjavik for easier travel and more sightseeing from the airport.

Navigating Reykjavik, Iceland with a car is simple enough with multiple rental companies available. The well-maintained roads and clear signage make Reykjavik convenient and efficient to get around. The city also is fairly compact, so there’s easy access to cultural sites, cozy cafes and bustling local markets. Having a personal car grants flexibility for unforgettable day trips to natural wonders. Some options to explore are the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and the most mesmerizing Icelandic waterfalls. There’s an unparalleled freedom to venturing out into the city.

By Public Transit

The public transit system in Reykjavik has well-connected bus routes that link to key landmarks, neighborhoods and attractions. Acquiring a Reykjavik City Card grants unlimited access to buses for a more cost-effective and hassle-free trip. The compact size of the city makes it easy to find the more popular points of interest. Visitors can easily immerse in the local culture from museums and galleries to local markets.

Explore Reykjavik, Iceland on Foot

One way to absorb the city’s unique ambiance is by exploring Reykjavik on foot. With a small-town feel and a big-city personality, the region offers architectural gems, cozy cafes, and boutique shops within walking distance of most accommodations. Strolling through the charming street provides an intimate glimpse into local life. The pedestrian friendly streets create a deeper connection to the culture, history and modernity that makes Reykjavik an ideal Northern European destination.