best places to visit in Iceland
Unforgettable Iceland: Best Places to Visit & Things to Do Iceland is a land of fire and ice, where volcanoes coexist with glaciers, and where the Northern Lights dance across the sky in winter while the sun barely sets in summer. This Nordic island nation offers a breathtaking blend of dramatic natural landscapes, rich Viking history, geothermal marvels, and vibrant urban life.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, this detailed guide will help you explore the best of what Iceland has to offer. From the energetic capital Reykjavik to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle, Iceland is a destination that never ceases to amaze.
Why Visit Iceland? best places to visit in Iceland
Iceland’s Unique Appeal:
- Active volcanoes and lava fields best places to visit in Iceland
- Majestic glaciers and glacial lagoons
- Iconic waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skógafoss
- Natural hot springs and geothermal pools
- Pristine fjords and black sand beaches
- The magical aurora borealis (Northern Lights)
Iceland appeals to adventurers, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking solitude and raw, untouched landscapes.
Best Time to Visit Iceland
Summer (June to August) best places to visit in Iceland
- Long daylight hours with the Midnight Sun
- Warmer temperatures (10–15°C)
- Access to highland areas and more road trips
- Ideal for whale watching and puffin sightings
Shoulder Season (May and September) best places to visit in Iceland
- Fewer tourists
- Good weather and lower prices
- Autumn colors or spring bloom
Winter (October to March)
- Best for seeing the Northern Lights
- Snow-covered landscapes
- Ice caving, glacier hiking, and snowmobiling
Must-See Natural Wonders in Iceland
1. The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that includes three major sites:
- Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
- Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the famous Strokkur geyser which erupts every 5–10 minutes.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most iconic and powerful waterfalls.
2. Blue Lagoon
Located near Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa with mineral-rich waters known for their healing properties. It offers a luxurious and relaxing experience amidst lava fields.
3. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
A surreal glacial lake filled with floating icebergs, located at the edge of Vatnajökull National Park. You can also visit the nearby Diamond Beach.
4. Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
Visible from September to March, the Northern Lights are best seen in darker, clearer skies away from city lights. Good viewing spots include:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Vik
- Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- Akureyri
5. Black Sand Beaches
Iceland’s south coast is known for its dramatic black sand beaches like:
- Reynisfjara Beach: With basalt columns and sea stacks
- Dyrhólaey: Offers stunning views and puffin nesting areas
6. Waterfalls
- Seljalandsfoss: A waterfall you can walk behind
- Skógafoss: Tall and powerful, often producing rainbows
- Dettifoss: Europe’s most powerful waterfall in the north
Popular Activities in Iceland
1. Whale Watching
Best experienced from Husavik, Reykjavik, or Akureyri, whale watching tours offer sightings of humpbacks, minkes, and orcas.
2. Glacier Hiking & Ice Caving
Guided tours on Vatnajökull and other glaciers let you explore surreal ice caves and crevasses.
3. Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools
Aside from the Blue Lagoon, don’t miss:
- Secret Lagoon in Flúðir
- Mývatn Nature Baths
- Reykjadalur Hot Springs (hot river hike)
4. Hiking & Trekking
Top trails include:
- Laugavegur Trail (multi-day trek)
- Fimmvörðuháls Pass
- Landmannalaugar area
5. Horseback Riding
Ride the unique Icelandic horse, known for its special gait (tölt), in scenic countryside settings.
Icelandic Cities & Towns Worth Visiting
1. Reykjavik
Iceland’s capital offers a great mix of modern culture and history. Top attractions include:
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
- Harpa Concert Hall
- Sun Voyager sculpture
- Laugavegur shopping street
- National Museum of Iceland
Nightlife: Reykjavik has a surprisingly vibrant nightlife scene with music festivals, bars, and craft breweries.
2. Akureyri
Often called the Capital of North Iceland, Akureyri has:
- Akureyri Church
- Botanical Gardens
- Access to whale watching tours
3. Husavik
Known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, Husavik also offers the GeoSea Geothermal Baths.
4. Vik
A small village on the south coast near the black sand beaches and dramatic sea cliffs.
Tour Packages & Transportation
Golden Circle Tours
- Full-day or half-day bus tours from Reykjavik
- Includes geysers, waterfalls, and Þingvellir
Northern Lights Tours
- Guided night tours by bus or jeep
- Better chances with expert guides
Self-Drive Tours
- Car rentals are popular for flexible road trips
- Ring Road (Route 1) circles the entire island
Multi-Day Tours
- Combine South Coast, Golden Circle, and Westfjords
- Include lodging and meals
Cost of Traveling in Iceland
Iceland is considered one of Europe’s more expensive destinations. Approximate prices:
- Hotel: $120–$250 per night
- Meal at restaurant: $25–$60
- Tour package: $80–$300/day
- Car rental: $40–$100/day
Tips to Save:
- Stay in hostels or guesthouses
- Shop at local supermarkets (Bonus, Kronan)
- Use Reykjavik City Card for discounts
Travel Requirements and Safety
- Schengen Visa: Required for many non-EU travelers; U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Weather Precautions: Sudden changes in weather are common. Always check forecasts and road conditions.
- Emergency Services: Dial 112 in case of emergency.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended due to remote locations and costly healthcare.
Final Thoughts
Iceland is a truly magical destination that promises unforgettable memories for travelers of all types. Whether you’re soaking in a geothermal lagoon, marveling at cascading waterfalls, or watching the sky light up with auroras, every moment in Iceland feels like a scene from a fantasy.
Plan your itinerary carefully depending on the season, and be ready for a raw, wild adventure that connects you with nature in its most elemental form.