Welcome to Iceland, a land where fire meets ice, and every twist in the road reveals a new natural wonder! From breathtaking waterfalls to bubbling geothermal hot springs, Iceland is a traveller’s dream come true. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights or hiking across glacier-filled landscapes, there’s something magical waiting for everyone.
In this guide, we’re uncovering Top 10 places to visit in Iceland. And yes! Iceland is still my favourite place I’ve visited! 🇮🇸
The Golden Circle: Iceland's Iconic Route
If you’ve only got a few days in Iceland, the Golden Circle is a must, and for good reason! It’s an incredible experience! This famous route includes three iconic stops:
- Þingvellir National Park – Walk between two tectonic plates! A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic park is both geologically fascinating and culturally significant.
- Geysir Geothermal Area – Watch Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes, sending boiling water shooting high into the sky. Insane experience!!
- Gullfoss Waterfall – A two-tiered waterfall so powerful, it leaves visitors in awe.
These attrations are all within a couple of hours from Reykjavik, making them ideal for a day trip.
Tip: Rent a car and do the Golden Circle at your own pace!
Best Golden Circle Tour:
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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A Floating Wonderland
Picture this! Ancient blue icebergs drifting serenely across a mirror-like lagoon, occasionally calving with a thunderous crack. Jökulsárlón is nature’s own IMAX theatre, and you’ve got front-row seats.
The lagoon has grown fourfold since the 1970s due to climate change, making it Iceland’s deepest lake at 248 meters. During my visit, I watched seals playing among the icebergs (so cute!), a reminder that this isn’t just a stunning landscape, but a vital ecosystem.
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Reykjavik: The Coolest Capital
Small but mighty, Reykjavik packs a punch with its quirky culture and vibrant arts scene. Start with a stroll around the harbour, visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, and dive into Icelandic history at the National Museum. By evening, grab a cosy seat in one of the city’s trendy cafes or breweries – the craft beer scene here is impressive!
Tip: Hit the bars when it is Happy Hour (cheaper drinks) – I recommend Slipbarrin bar at Fooshotel Baron! So good!
Recommended City Card:
Further reading:
The Blue Lagoon: Relax in Geothermal Luxury
Just 45 minutes from Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon isn’t just a geothermal spa – it’s a slice of heaven on Earth. Imagine floating in milky-blue waters, surrounded by black lava fields, while the steam rises around you like nature’s own special effects.
Pro tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most magical experience. Book at least two months in advance during peak season (June-August).
The silica-rich waters maintain a constant temperature of 37-40°C (98-104°F), and studies have shown significant skin benefits from the unique mineral composition. The lagoon’s healing properties have been documented in several dermatological studies published in the Journal of European Academy of Dermatology.
Vík and the Black Sand Beaches
The village of Vík is home to some of Iceland’s most dramatic coastal scenery. The jet-black sand of Reynisfjara Beachcontrasts beautifully with the roaring Atlantic waves and basalt sea stacks rising from the water. Legend has it that these rock formations are trolls turned to stone!
Nearby, check out Dyrhólaey, a massive rock arch offering panoramic views of the coastline – perfect for birdwatchers too, as puffins nest here in summer.
We went Vik in January and it felt like a ghost town (in a good way), strolling through the empty streets!
Tip: Do the Lava Show!!
Continue Below…
Recommended Tours in Iceland
Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Iceland in Miniature
Often called “Iceland in miniature,” this 90km peninsula packs in every landscape Iceland is famous for. From the iconic Kirkjufell mountain (Game of Thrones fans, you know the one!) to hidden black sand beaches, it’s like someone took all of Iceland’s greatest hits and squeezed them into one perfectly road-trippable package.
The local folklore here is as rich as the landscapes. My guide shared tales of elves living in the lava fields, and after seeing the mystical rock formations at twilight, I’m almost convinced!
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
The Northern Lights: A Dance in the Sky
Experiencing the aurora borealis is on every traveller’s bucket list. Iceland’s long winter nights provide the perfect backdrop for this natural light show. Some of the best places to spot the northern lights include Thingvellir National Park, Reykjavik, and the remote Westfjords. Download an aurora forecast app to boost your chances!
Guide to all things Iceland:
Vatnajökull National Park: Glaciers and Ice Caves
If adventure calls, answer it at Vatnajökull National Park. Home to Europe’s largest glacier, this park offers glacier hikes, ice cave explorations, and some of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. During winter, guided tours take you into the heart of crystal-clear ice caves – an experience you’ll never forget. Glacier hiking was the best thing I’ve ever done!
Recommended Glacier Hike:
Landmannalaugar: The Rainbow Mountains
For hikers, Landmannalaugar is paradise. These colourful rhyolite mountains, located in the Icelandic Highlands, look like a painter’s palette. From vibrant reds to deep greens, the landscapes are unlike anything else on Earth. The best time to visit is summer, and the Laugavegur Trail is the most popular multi-day trek for adventurers.
Westfjords: Iceland's Best-Kept Secret
Looking to escape the crowds? Head to the Westfjords, Iceland’s wild and remote northwest corner. Highlights include the towering cliffs of Látrabjarg, home to puffins, and the dramatic Dynjandi Waterfall, cascading like a bridal veil. This off-the-beaten-path region offers pristine nature and the chance to truly disconnect.
Bonus Stop: The Secret Lagoon
Prefer something quieter than the Blue Lagoon? Check out the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir. This natural hot spring is one of Iceland’s oldest, and its rustic charm makes it a local favourite.
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Iceland isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience (and my favourite place!) that will reshape your understanding of what nature is capable of. From the moment you step off the plane, you’re entering a world where every turn in the road might reveal a new wonder, be it a hidden waterfall, a field of lupines strething to the horizon, or steam rising mysteriously from the earth.
Remember, these aren’t just places to tick off a list – they’re opportunities to connect with one of the planet’s last true wildernesses. Each location tells its own story, from the geological forces that shaped the land to the folklore that gives it soul.
Share Your Icelandic Story!
Have you been to Iceland or are you planning your first trip? Share your favourite spots or ask your burning questions in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you!
Related Articles for Iceland:
- The Best Time To Visit Iceland
- The Ultimate Guide to Iceland’s East Fjords
- Iceland Folklore: Legends in the Land of Ice and Fire
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Your Questions, Answered
Where are the best places to see the northern lights in Iceland?
The best spots include Thingvellir National Park, the Westfjords, and remote areas with minimal light pollution. Visiting between September and April offers the best chances.
When is the best time to visit Iceland?
It depends! Summer (June-August) offers long daylight hours and great hiking, while winter (November-March) is perfect for northern lights and ice caves.
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to travel around Iceland?
Not always, but if you’re venturing into the Highlands or during winter, a 4×4 is highly recommended. Many roads, including F-roads, require it.
Is Iceland expensive to visit?
Yes, Iceland can be pricey. To save money, consider self-catering meals, camping, and travelling during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).
What’s the best way to travel around Iceland?
Renting a car is the best way to explore at your own pace. Alternatively, guided tours and public buses are great for specific routes like the Golden Circle.
Recommended Tours for the whole of Iceland
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- SafetyWing for occasional travellers.
- Medjet for global air medical transport and travel security.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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