If you are looking for a destination that combines stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and endless adventure, look no further than Iceland. This Nordic island nation is a wonderland of glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, geysers, and hot springs, as well as charming towns, museums, and festivals. Whether you want to explore the capital city of Reykjavik, drive along the scenic South Coast, or venture into the remote wilderness of the Westfjords, Iceland has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit in Iceland and what to do there.
Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Iceland, and a great place to start your journey. You can admire the striking architecture of Hallgrimskirkja church and Harpa concert hall, learn about the country’s history and culture at the National Museum and the Icelandic Phallological Museum, or enjoy the views from Perlan dome. Reykjavik is also a base for many outdoor activities, such as whale watching, puffin spotting, and hiking in the nearby nature reserves. Don’t miss the vibrant nightlife scene, where you can dance, drink, and listen to live music until dawn.
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a popular sightseeing route that covers some of Iceland’s most iconic attractions. You can visit Thingvellir National Park, where you can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and the site of the world’s first parliament. You can also witness the erupting geysers at Geysir geothermal area, and marvel at the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. Along the way, you can also stop at other interesting places, such as Kerid crater lake, Fridheimar tomato farm, and Laugarvatn Fontana geothermal baths.
The South Coast
The South Coast is another scenic route that offers a variety of natural wonders and cultural experiences. You can see the impressive waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, where you can walk behind or climb to the top for different perspectives. You can also visit the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, where you can see the basalt columns and sea stacks of Reynisdrangar. Further along the coast, you can explore the Skaftafell nature reserve, where you can hike to more waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain peaks. You can also witness the beauty of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where icebergs float on the blue water, and Diamond Beach, where they wash up on the shore.
Akureyri
Akureyri is a charming town in northern Iceland, situated in a scenic fjord. It offers a variety of cultural and natural attractions, from the impressive Akureyrarkirkja church that overlooks the town, to the botanical garden that showcases the diverse flora of Iceland. Akureyri is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside, where you can enjoy activities such as whale watching, skiing, hiking, and horse riding. If you visit Akureyri in August, you can join the locals in celebrating the annual Cosy Days festival, which features music, art, and entertainment.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a region in western Iceland that is often called “Iceland in miniature” because it has a bit of everything that makes the country so unique. You can admire the stunning Snaefellsjokull glacier and volcano, which inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. You can also see the beautiful Mount Kirkjufell, which is one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland. Other attractions include black sand beaches, lava fields, fishing villages, bird cliffs, and caves.
Fludir
Fludir is a small town in south Iceland that is best known for its mushroom greenhouse. If you love mushrooms, you can visit the greenhouse’s bistro and try various dishes made with them. You can also enjoy authentic Ethiopian food at Minilik restaurant. Fludir is also a great place to relax in natural hot springs, such as the Secret Lagoon and Hrunalaug. Fludir is on the Golden Circle route with some of Iceland’s best-known attractions within reach.
Mosfellsbaer
Mosfellsbaer is a friendly rural town near Reykjavik that offers a quiet escape from the city. Its biggest attractions are the small mountains that surround it,
such as Ulfarsfell, Mosfell, Helgafell and Reykjafell – all great for short hikes. Lake Hafravatn is a gem that locals flock to for swimming and kayaking fun. You can also visit Gljufrasteinn museum dedicated to Nobel Prize laureate Halldor Laxness,
and Laxnes farm, which offers horseback riding tours. Alafosskvos is a tiny art and design village with a long-standing yarn store and local craft stores full of beautifully made items.
Stokkseyri
Stokkseyri is a charming coastal village that attracts foodies from far and wide to its seafood restaurant Fjorubordid – the lobster is especially popular. Kayaking in its narrow channels is a calm and fun activity, and there are also more challenging tours available if you’re up for it. You can learn about – and get scared by – some of the country’s most infamous ghosts at the Ghost Museum. The neighboring village of Eyrarbakki has beautifully restored timber houses and a heritage museum in a home that seems frozen in time.