Iceland is a land of endless adventures and natural wonders. With its rugged landscapes, stunning glaciers, and picturesque fjords, Iceland offers a plethora of activities and attractions that are perfect for every traveler. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Iceland has something for everyone. In this post, we'll take a closer look at the 10 best places to see in Iceland, so you can make the most of your trip.
Top 10 Things to do in Iceland
Visit the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa located in a lava field in Grindavík. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland and attracts over a million visitors every year. The cost of admission starts at 6990 ISK (58 USD) per person. I highly recommend you to book the tickets early in advance once you have your flights booked. You can then choose to visit on the first day or last day of your trip as it is close to the airport. As of experience I recommend coming on your last day so you can recover and relax after your adventurous trip.
Insider tip: Book an early morning or late evening slot as it is less crowded! Get your ticket here
Explore Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland and offers a variety of attractions, from museums to galleries and shopping streets. Visitors can explore the colorful buildings of the old town, check out the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, or relax in one of the many cafes and restaurants. I love walking down the main street from the church to the Rainbow Street in Reykjavik. It is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. Painted as sign of support for the LGBTQ community, this colorful street is now one of the city's focal points. Very closeby you should stop by Brauð & Co as they do have the very best cinnamon buns in town (also vegan!).
Hike on a glacier
Iceland has some of the largest glaciers in Europe, and hiking on one of them is a must-do activity for adventure seekers. You can book a guided tour that includes a glacier walk, or snowmobiling in winter or kayaking, or boat tour in summer. If you are looking for a small group and more private tour check out Heading North - we loved the full day tour and I cannot recommend it more! If you are on a budget you might want to check out the group tours at GetYourGuide.
Visit a wild Beach
There are two beaches I’d like to mention on this top activity: Reynisfjara and Stokksnes. Located on the south coast, Reynisfjara is a famous black sand beach with stunning rock formations and towering basalt columns. It is also famously dangerous as soon as the weather is particularly windy. So this means always respect the warnings at the parking entrance to the beach. Stokksnes is a good drive from Höfn and not crowded at all. With the Vestrahorn in the back and the black sand & roaring ocean it is worth the extra drive. You’ll have to pay a little entrance fee to get into the area (900 ISK ($6.50 USD)).
Experience Icelandic horseback riding
If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Iceland, look no further than a horse riding excursion with Mr. Iceland. This is not your typical horseback riding tour - Mr. Iceland offers a personalized and authentic experience that allows you to truly connect with Iceland's natural beauty and culture. The Icelandic horse is a special breed, known for its strength, endurance, and gentle disposition. As you ride through the stunning countryside, you'll feel a sense of awe and wonder at the raw, natural beauty around you. And with Mr. Iceland as your guide, you'll learn about the history and traditions of Icelandic horsemanship, and gain a deep appreciation for this incredible animal. Whether you're an experienced rider or a beginner, this is an adventure you won't want to miss. So saddle up and get ready for the ride of a lifetime with Mr. Iceland!
Drive the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that includes some of Iceland's most famous attractions, such as the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. You can rent a car or book a tour to explore this scenic route. It’s well suited if you want to see many spectacular places in a relatively short time and avoid too much driving. Book your accommodation along the Circle here.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland's most breathtaking natural wonders, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of a glacial lake surrounded by towering glaciers. The lagoon is located in southeastern Iceland and is fed by the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice cap in Europe. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lagoon, allowing them to get up close and personal with the massive icebergs that float through the crystal clear waters. Alternatively, visitors can take a walk along the lagoon's black sand beach, where they can watch as icebergs drift out to sea. Jökulsárlón is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Iceland, as it offers a glimpse into the country's stunning natural beauty and unique geology. Book your tour here.
See the Northern Lights
Watching the Northern Lights is an incredible experience that should be on everyone's bucket list. Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see this natural phenomenon, and it's an experience you won't forget. The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, are caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with the Earth's atmosphere. The best time to see them in Iceland is from late September to early April. There are several ways to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, including guided tours and self-drive options. Some popular places to see the Northern Lights include Thingvellir National Park, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Vatnajökull Glacier. Make sure to dress warmly, bring a camera, and be patient. Seeing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won't want to miss. Do not worry, you'll not be alone and there are people around at any time of the day and some also simply stop along the road. It's mostly a matter of timing and low light pollution. You can book your tours here too.
Bathe in a hot spring
Iceland has numerous natural hot springs and geothermal pools that are perfect for relaxation. The most famous one is the Blue Lagoon, but there are also other hot springs such as the Secret Lagoon and Mývatn Nature Baths. Newer ones such as Krauma, Sky Lagoon or Hvammsvik. The cost of admission to hot springs starts at 2800 ISK ($23 USD) per person. Many great deals can be found here.
Sleep at the Panorama Glass Lodge
Sleeping at the Panorama Glass Lodge is such a unique experience and definitely one of the top things to do during your trip in Iceland. Located in the heart of Iceland's wild, unspoiled landscape, the lodge offers guests a chance to immerse themselves in the country's rugged beauty while enjoying modern amenities and luxurious comforts. What sets the lodge apart, however, is its floor-to-ceiling glass walls that provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding scenery. From the comfort of their bed, visitors can witness the Northern Lights dancing across the sky or watch the sun rise over the majestic mountains. It's a truly unforgettable experience that combines the best of Iceland's natural wonders with the ultimate in relaxation and comfort. Book it here
Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
This beautiful peninsula is often referred to as "Iceland in miniature" because it contains many of the country's most iconic landscapes, including black sand beaches, waterfalls, glaciers, and lava fields. Some of the top sights to see include Kirkjufell mountain, the Londrangar basalt cliffs, and the Vatnshellir cave.
Iceland is truly a traveler's paradise, offering a unique combination of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and adventurous activities. From exploring glaciers and ice caves to soaking in hot springs and spotting the Northern Lights, Iceland has something for everyone. By checking out some of these 10 best things to do in Iceland, you'll create unforgettable memories and experiences that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this breathtaking country. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your Iceland adventure, and we can't wait for you to experience all that this amazing destination has to offer.