travel blog iceland

The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Iceland

By: Author Monica

Categories Iceland

Not so long ago, Iceland was a relatively unheard of destination, with only the few most extreme adventurers choosing to travel there. Finding a guide to Iceland would have been a real challenge.

These days, it’s one of the world’s most popular destinations, and there are so many Iceland travel guides out there that it’s hard to know where to start. It’s a good problem to have, and it’s only happened because Iceland is one unbelievably epic destination to visit, so there’s always a lot to say when you come back from a trip there! Iceland is one of my favourite destinations and whenever anyone asks me for a weekend break suggestion I’ll always tell them Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, especially a first-time trip, it can be hard to sift through all of the information out there to find the blog posts and articles that will really help you.

That’s why I created The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Iceland, which rounds up all of my favourite blog posts on this destination so that you have everything you need to plan your trip to Iceland!

Iceland Travel Tips and Guides

Iceland offers a totally different experience in every season. To help you plan your trip, Kiki from The Blonde Abroad gives a guide to Iceland in each season, including the weather and festivals to look out for, so you can decide on the best time to visit Iceland.

Iceland is such a surprising place, full of myths and legends and customs that will confuse and delight you. These (admittedly random) facts are some of the things I learned on my first trip to Iceland (including when to celebrate National Beer Day).

Elle shares some of the lessons she wishes she’d known before visiting Iceland’s capital city, including what to expect at the famous Blue Lagoon (i.e. what no one tells you about what your hair will feel like afterwards) and the best time to arrive.

21 Things I Wish I Knew About Iceland Before My Trip – Away from the Office

Rebecca from Away from the Office shares insights that will help to make a first-timer’s trip to Iceland the best it possibly can be. This guide to Iceland offers some tips on how to save money, and shares prices you can expect for an average meal, which can be a shock for first-time visitors to Iceland.

How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland – Life with a View

A lot of visitors to Iceland come in the hopes of spotting the incredible and magical Northern Lights, but it’s not as easy as just turning up and spotting them. Jeannie offers practical tips to give you the best chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis when you visit Iceland.

Not sure if Iceland is the right destination for solo female travel? Milly from Mini Adventures shares why it’s the perfect place to travel alone, based on her trip there, which was her first ever solo travel destination.

Iceland Itineraries

Iceland is a fantastic destination for a stopover, especially on the way from London to New York, or vice versa. Brooke shows how you can see loads in a short time thanks to this spectacular 4 day itinerary, which includes many of the country’s most famous sights.

Got a little bit longer to explore? This guide to Iceland, which includes a handy map, breaks down the two weeks day by day, including expected drive times, recommended accommodation, and what you can see along the way.

Not sure how long you need to spend in Iceland? This post shows you what you can do with a quick layover vs a week or longer, so you can plan better and work out how much you really want to see…probably all of it, let’s be honest!

This Iceland itinerary is a little bit different because it’s specific to winter, which is a season that brings its own beauty (and its own set of challenges, too). Learn how to see as much as possible, and get useful tips on how to navigate Iceland in the middle of winter.

There’s so much to see all around Iceland, but the city of Reykjavik has plenty to offer, and you can easily stay in the city and still have a whole lot of adventure. In this post, Kaelene shares how to base your Iceland holiday in Reykjavik, and offers tips to make the most of your Icelandic city break.

When I visited Iceland back in 2015 for a long weekend, I knew it would be amazing, but I was blown away by how utterly incredible this 36 hour trip really was! From champagne on black sand beaches to helicopter tours, it was the kind of trip I know I’ll never forget in my lifetime!

Iceland Road Trip Tips and Routes

The most famous driving route in Iceland, the Ring Road, is full of sights and wonders to stop and admire along the way. We Are Travel Girls break down the best stops to make as you drive the perimeter of the country, including where to go to spot puffins!

A road trip might be the most epic way to see the best of Iceland, but there are a few things it’s good to know before you hop in your car and hit the road. Marie-Eve shares her top dos and don’ts of road-tripping in Iceland here.

With a handy map to guide you and epic photos to inspire your Iceland road trip, this mega-post will probably make you want to just pack your bags and move there, because there’s so much to see that one trip just isn’t enough!

From when to travel to Iceland for a Ring Road adventure, to weather conditions and tips on knowing Iceland’s road signs, this road trip tips post by Kiki is perfect for first-timers to Iceland.

Summer is when people usually hit Iceland for a road trip, closely followed by winter (because chances are higher of seeing the Northern Lights), but what about the in-between seasons? This guide to Iceland road tripping in spring argues why it’s the best time to go.

Things to do in Iceland

This blog post is something of an Iceland bucket list for beginners. Covering all of the highlights and ‘must dos’, if you ticked everything on this list off during your first time to Iceland, you’ll have had a memorable trip indeed!

With some alternative suggestions for things to do in Iceland (like finding live music in Reykjavik, and seeing a waterfall from a different perspective), this list basically reads like a guide to having the most fun in Iceland!

There might be loads of blog posts out there about visiting Reykjavik, but this one stands out because it offers practical tips, like buying water before going on a tour, and the best way to pay for things when you’re there. If you want to really get to know Reykjavik before you visit Iceland, this is the post for you.

Yes, The Blue Lagoon might be Iceland’s most famous hot spring, but no – it’s not the only one! Some of the other hot springs dotted around the country are absolutely breathtaking, and not overcrowded like The Blue Lagoon can be.

I bet when you think of Iceland, snorkelling isn’t the first activity you imagine doing! But despite the freezing temperatures, it’s possible – and it’s incredible! Take a look at my video from the time I went snorkelling in Iceland. Would you dare?

It can be overwhelming trying to find the right tour for you, especially when there are so many available. Thankfully, Yulia from Miss Tourist has broken it down for you by choosing ten Iceland tours that are worth the money.

The Blue Lagoon is instantly recognisable, and a must-see when in Iceland – after all, we’ve all seen the stunning Instagram photos of milky blue waters surrounded by dramatic black volcanic rocks. But what is it really like to visit? I share my top tips here.

Budget Iceland Travel

Iceland is notoriously expensive. Even if you’re expecting high prices, it’s usually even more pricey than first-time visitors anticipated. This in-depth guide covers average costs of travel expenses, as well as offering 21 practical ways to save money in Iceland.

Can you ever have too many Iceland money saving tips? I don’t think so. This guide to Iceland on a budget offers some brilliant tips (including where to find cool second hand stores to look for one of those cute Icelandic wool jumpers for less).

One of the best ways to save money in Iceland is to camp, rather than paying for costly accommodation in hotels or hostels every night. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be immersed in some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Here’s how to do it.

Going out to eat in Iceland is jaw-droppingly expensive, so Victoria and Terrence offer some alternative food options, as well as other money-saving tips for a trip to Iceland.

I love it when bloggers break down the exact costs of their trip – it’s so useful to understand how much to budget – and Milly does exactly this in her Iceland budget post. She doesn’t hide any expenses, and itemises each cost from food to transfers to flights, to give you a great idea of just how much you need to budget to visit Iceland.

Packing for Iceland

Iceland’s weather is rarely predictable, even in the warmer summer months, so packing can be really tricky. This post by Shana shares packing lists and tips for the city or for outdoorsy Icelandic adventures, for the whole family.

From the essential jackets you’ll need to pack for Iceland to perfecting the art of layering, this packing guide by Amalia will put your mind at ease and make sure you’re as prepared as you possibly can be for Iceland’s unpredictable climate.

After my first trip, I picked eight items that you just can’t travel to Iceland without. This guide to Iceland packing essentials covers all activities, from hanging out in the city to outdoor adventuring – and a little in between.

Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, Suzanne’s got you covered with these practical Iceland packing tips. She’s got some clever recommendations, like those tech gloves that mean you don’t have to expose your fingers to the cold when you take a photo. Genius.

Packing for a summer holiday is usually pretty easy and stress-free, but not so when you’re travelling to Iceland. Don’t get caught out without the right gear – with this guide by Greta, you won’t have to.

Food and Drink in Iceland

Sure, eating out in Iceland is famous for being expensive, but there are a few places that are worth the splurge. This list of unusual places to eat at in Reykjavik includes an establishment no trip to Iceland would be complete without visiting: Baejarins Beztu Pylsur, also known as the hot dog stand!

Don’t worry, if you’re travelling to Iceland on a budget, you don’t have to survive on bread for your trip. This guide to budget eats in Reykjavik includes local recommendations that are both tasty and easy on your wallet. That Indian street food looks incredible!

Don’t read this blog post while you’re hungry! This guide to Iceland’s best food offers some seriously mouth-watering options all around the Golden Circle region, from the best brunch to the tastiest ice cream and where to get fresh lobster soup every day.

Where to stay in Iceland

Hotels in Iceland might be expensive, but when the hostels are this amazing, who needs a hotel anyway? KEX Hostel is a quirky, friendly option for visitors to Iceland who don’t want to spend a fortune (but who also want a bit of style in their stay!).

Forget about a five star hotel…how about a five million star hotel? This bubble hotel is fully transparent, so you have uninterrupted views of the Icelandic sky. It’s perfect for watching the Northern Lights, but it would be magical even if you didn’t see the Aurora. Definitely one for the bucket list.

From luxurious hotels to cosy and comfortable home stays, there are plenty of options for accommodation in Iceland. This comprehensive guide breaks it down by region so you can plan your entire trip, night by night.

Do you have any more tips to add to this guide to Iceland?

Saturday 6th of July 2019

I just returned from 5 days in Iceland (2-1/2 day more than necessary). The scenery is beautiful, but has a certain sameness wherever you go. There are a few unimpressive geysers, some thundering waterfalls, and the sunsets are impressive (at about 12:15 AM local time). I chose the sunsets. One must chose because sunrise follows sunsets by 2-12 hours. I couldn't stay up for both.

Visiting Iceland is a great deal like blue-ocean sailing: you are always, wet, always cold, moving slowly and at great expense. Can't overemphasize the expense part: Tokyo is cheaper. Some of the much heralded hotel spas will disappoint you. Service is insipid; and there is everywhere the lingering odor of sulfur.

Been there (and nearly everywhere else). I recommend nearly everywhere else, first, then Iceland. Maybe next year, Greenland.

Top 13 Blogs About Iceland

• I Heart Reykjavik

What do you like most about Iceland?

What makes iceland stand out as a travel destination.

• What’s your favourite location in Iceland?
• The Blonde Abroad

What is your favourite place in Iceland?

• Nomadic Matt
• Miss Tourist
• CasualTravelist
• The Culture Map
• One Mile at a Time
• From Ice to Spice
• Expert Vagabond
• Hand Luggage Only
• Two Monkeys Travel Group
• Passion Passport
• Guide to Iceland Locals

Richard aka Wanda Star

• Jón Hilmarsson
• Read Even More About Iceland!

Are you looking for the best travel blogs about Iceland? Find the best and most comprehensive local and international Iceland blogs here. Read on to discover Iceland travel blogs, nature blogs, food blogs, photography blogs, lifestyle blogs and everything in-between.

• Learn more in Icelandic Literature for Beginners
• Secure your spot on this  West Iceland Sightseeing Day Tour | Nature and Culture
• On the other side of the country? This  East Iceland's Nature and Culture Super Jeep Tour  is for you

Since Guide to Iceland launched in 2012, we’ve focused on publishing informative, quality articles and helpful blogs. We’re constantly adding new content, and on our site, you can find a diverse array of articles, covering everything from  The Midnight Sun in Iceland  to  Gender Equality in Iceland .

Popular self-drive tours

10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes, best 1-week summer self-drive tour of the ring road of iceland & golden circle, best 7-day northern lights self drive tour through south iceland to jokulsarlon ice cave.

Obviously, we aren’t the only ones providing great content, and below, in no particular order, we’ve listed our favourite blogs about Iceland, just in case you want to read different voices and see even more gorgeous pictures of our beautiful country.

We got in touch with the founders of these blogs and asked them a couple of questions.

I Heart Reykjavik  

Picture from I Heart Reykjavík

I Heart Reykjavík is by far the largest local Icelandic blog you can find. It’s run by Auður, an Icelander with a passion for both her hometown Reykjavík and for Iceland’s nature. Her travel blog is completely focused on Iceland, so everything you read here is an insider tip on the country and its capital. 

I Heart Reykjavík is, in her own words “a travel blog about Iceland, seen from the eyes of the local. It’s useful for anyone planning to visit Iceland, no matter their style of travel or budget.”

"What I like most about living in Iceland is first and foremost just that it’s my home and as such, I have a strong connection to it. I love our nature, our clean air (sounds like a cliché but it’s true) and as a parent, I enjoy how safe it is to raise a family here."

"What makes Iceland a great travel destination, apart from the culture and people that live in the country, is our spectacular nature. Although many of the things you’ll see in Iceland are not necessarily unique in the world (although some of it is) what makes Iceland so special is that all these amazing things are right here in one spot in an area about the of the size of Kentucky."

What’s your favourite location in Iceland?

"I don’t have a favourite place in Iceland, asking me to name one is like asking a mother name her favourite child. However, I always think Þórsmörk is kind of magical."

• See also: Top 10 things to do in Reykjavik
• To visit Þórsmörk, see Highland Tours

The Blonde Abroad  

Picture from The Blonde Abroad

The Blonde Abroad is run by Kiersten, a Californian who left her job in corporate finance to travel the world. Her blog features more than 20 articles about Iceland, as well as a fun video of her winter trip in Iceland.

The Blonde Abroad is, in her own words, "one of the leading resources for travellers around the world. I focus on photography, curated destination guides, hotel reviews, packing guides, and travel tips for solo and female travellers, based on my own travels and experiences in over 58 countries around the globe!"

"Out of all the places I've been, I've learned that Iceland is unlike any other place I've travelled to. I've visited twice now and the second time I drove a camper van around the Ring Road and explored spots off the beaten path. The pristine landscapes, natural beauty, the variety of adventures, food and local culture is one of the best, and why I plan to return over and over again!"

"I think that Iceland offers activities for all types of travellers. If you're an adventure seeker, you can hike through ice caves and climb glaciers. If you're a photographer, you'll be blown away by the landscapes and waterfalls. If you're an outdoors person, you'll enjoy camping around the Ring Road and getting to lesser known, hidden gems. And if you just want to get away to relax, Iceland offers amazing geothermal pools and spas that would suit any taste!"

"It's hard to pick a favourite because every corner of Iceland is awe-inspiring, but my most unforgettable moment was watching the northern lights over Goðafoss ."

• See also: The Northern Lights
• Rent a camper van here

Nomadic Matt  

Picture from Nomadic Matt

Nomadic Matt is run by Matt, who grew up in Boston. On a holiday in Thailand in 2005 he realised he didn't need to be rich in order to travel and on his site you'll find lots of money saving tips when in Iceland, as well as several articles.

In his own words, Nomadic Matt "proves that travelling isn't just for the rich by teaching people how to travel for as cheaply as possible! My website is for anyone around the world who wants to travel on a budget and off the beaten path."

"Iceland left me spellbound as I wandered from place to place. It quickly became one of my favourite countries in the world after my first visit. It’s such a beautiful country filled with warm and welcoming people (who are also beautiful). The landscape here is like nothing else in the world. It’s magic! Everyone told me Iceland would blow my mind. It definitely did."

" The locals were warm and welcoming, took me around, and showed me their homes. They were incredibly hospitable, and I made a lot of Icelandic friends on my trip. And, while locals make any destination better, what blew my mind was the magnificence of the natural landscape. It’s bewitching.

I only managed to see a fraction of Iceland during my trips, but my visits have always lived up to my high expectations. No photo or movie I saw did it justice. It was even better in person."

"I loved visiting the Mývatn Nature Baths. These were quieter and less expensive than the famous Blue Lagoon outside Reykjavik. I relaxed here by myself for over an hour mellowing out in the warm waters. I also loved seeing the waterfalls, and there are so many waterfalls to visit throughout the country. But my favourite region is probably the northwest. It's pretty empty up there and there aren't a lot of tourists or people. I love the quiet and the hiking."

• See also: 19 tips on how to save money in Iceland
• See also: Waterfalls in Iceland

Miss Tourist  

Picture from Miss Tourist

Miss Tourist is run by Yulia, a Russian girl who likes to travel in a smart way. Her blog has several articles about Iceland, covering a 14-day road trip all around the country, and some budget tips.

In Yulia's own words, Miss Tourist is "all about travelling to extraordinary destinations and making the most of your time there! I will give you tips on how to avoid waiting in the line to popular attractions; money savers tips (something that I call "smart travel"); tips on not paying if you don't need to (discounts, free days etc.); and do-it-yourself practical tips on how to organise your vacation in the best possible way!"

"Oh, Iceland is my favourite country in the world (and I have been to some)! I love the stunning nature that you cannot find anywhere else in the world, the sense of connecting with nature and diversity that Iceland has to offer—summer in one day and from geysers to glaciers again!"

"As I said, it has absolutely unique nature that I haven't seen anywhere else before and, even despite the fact that Iceland is becoming a more popular tourist destination, it is still far from being crowded. You can for example really feel the power of a waterfall without having to queue for hours to see it and needing to find a spot without people for an epic picture."

"Good question and a very hard one! I think the small hidden waterfall called Gljúfrabúi  would be a good choice!  Gljúfrabúi  is located near Seljalandsfoss waterfall and in order to get there, you need to climb through a narrow opening in the cliff and cross a small river. You can't really see it from the outside so, save a pin on a map in order not to miss it!"

• See also: 9 Worst Tourist Traps in Iceland
• See also: Best Attractions by the Ring Road of Iceland

Casual Travelist  

Picture from Casual Travelist

Casual Travelist is run by Brianna who's written half a dozen informative articles about Iceland. Unlike many of the other bloggers, she isn't a full-time blogger, but writes about "laid back luxury, with a focus on culinary, city and nature travel."

Or as she puts it: "Balancing a full-time career with a love of travel I have been sharing my experiences and tips at the Casual Travelist since 2014 where I aim to show other working professionals how they too can get out and explore the world."

"I quickly fell in love with Iceland during a trip to Reykjavík and the south coast. Volcanoes, glaciers , mountains and the sea merge to create some of the most beautiful views on Earth. 

Climbing the Sólheimajökull glacier and witnessing the vastness of the glacier-carved landscape and how far the glaciers has retreated made me realise just how powerful and fragile the glacial ecosystem is."

"Visiting a glacier lagoon is on many people’s wishlist when they visit Iceland and while Jökulsárlón is a popular tourist destination nearby Fjallsárlón is just as stunning and you may have the entire place to yourself."

• See also: Glacier Tours
• See also: Glaciers and Glacier Hiking in Iceland

The Culture Map  

Picture from The Culture Map

The Culture Map is run by Shing from the UK. She's got a great big love for the Nordic countries and on her blog, you can find a handful of articles about Iceland.

In her own words The Culture Map "focuses on Scandinavia and the Arctic, though I feature all the destinations I visit but to a lesser extent—which is around 45 countries!"

"The list is truly endless - do you have all day? In a nutshell, I really feel that this is where Mother Nature spends most of her time, happily showing off her diversity in a vast pool of technicolour. Specifically speaking, the waterfalls in Iceland deserve a special mention too – Dettifoss, Gullfoss, Svartifoss, Skógafoss, Dynjandi, Háifoss and so many more!"

"Iceland makes an impact on you whether you are there for three days or three weeks. If you are only based in Reykjavik you can choose from a variety of day trips like the Golden Circle route , whale-watching, horseback riding and glacier hiking, that way you will see a microcosm of the country if you are restrained by time."

"Such a difficult question to narrow down. Although I suspect my answer would change depending on my mood, I think it would have to be the area around Lake Mývatn in North Iceland. It makes me feel like I’m on Mars with its bubbling mud pools, geothermal caves and gigantic craters. I can’t wait to return."

• See also: Golden Circle Tours
• See also: Mývatn Tours

One Mile at a Time  

One Mile at a Time consists of a team of bloggers, although it was started by frequent flyer Lucky, aka Ben Schlappig. The focus is on flights and aviation, and there are several blogs about new routes going to Iceland, as well as advice on what to do while you are actually in the country.

For Lucky travelling is more about the journey than the destination, so you can read up about plenty of frequent flyer programs and reviews on business class and first class on the airlines flying to Iceland. He also describes projects or initiatives such as Icelandair's Stopover Buddy Service in detail.

If there's anything you need to know about new airlines flying to Iceland or the aircraft you'll be going on to reach Iceland, you'll be sure to find the information at One Mile at a Time. 

• See also: Flights to Iceland: All You Need to Know
• See also: What to Do & Where to Go

From Ice to Spice  

Picture from From Ice to Spice

From Ice to Spice is run by Icelandic blogger and photographer Ása. She travels a lot around Iceland, but also around the world, giving a great Icelandic insight into other destinations in the world too. Besides Iceland, she likes to travel to less travelled areas.

When asked about her blog, Ása has this to say: "My blog has centred on travelling from the very start! Like so many travel blogs it all started with one year of constant travelling through Asia.

My boyfriend and I loved documenting our trip through photos and words, providing local tips and information for other travellers. This slowly evolved into a true passion for me and since then I have posted over 60 articles from various countries in the world.

Although I don’t have a specific niche, I do tend to travel to less visited areas such as the Middle East, Mongolia and North Korea. I also love blogging about bizarre things like the “Suicide Forest” and “The Bunny Island” in Japan."

"The diversity, the people, the silence. Homy feeling, nature, culture. Coming back to Iceland after a one year journey definitely gave me a new perspective on my own country and really made me appreciate it more than before. What I especially value is the complete isolation, the utter silence and the unworldly landscapes which are still unrivalled compared to the 52 countries I have visited so far."

"So many different things to see, the diversity. You don't have to travel far, there is nature everywhere. The natural hot springs . To add to the above, I’d say the immense wealth of geothermal hot water is a huge attraction here at home and has been deeply rooted in our culture for a long time.

Not only do we see farmers and small-towners bathe in the natural hot springs…we also have geothermal pools in every single neighbourhood in the “big” capital Reykjavík. Needless to say, there is nothing more rewarding than a strenuous mountain hike ending in a perfect 39°C natural geothermal pool with a view to die for, all to yourself."

"The Westfjords have always been highly valued in my heart. Along with my favourite waterfall, Dynjandi, here you’ll find Iceland’s most beautiful and most remote nature reserve, Hornstrandir."

• See also: 14 Day Self Drive Tour | Circle of Iceland and the Westfjords
• See also: The Westfjords of Iceland

Expert Vagabond  

Picture from Expert Vagabond

Expert Vagabond is run by Matthew Carsten. Unfortunately Matt was away travelling and didn't have time to answer our questions but allowed us to use his picture here.

On Expert Vagabond, you'll find half a dozen articles about Iceland, and Matt's been chasing Iceland's Northern Lights, visited crystal ice caves, visited the plane wreck on Sólheimasandur in south Iceland, driven the Golden Circle, been snorkelling and driven Iceland's ring road and to Snæfellsnes in wintertime.

He even managed to see an erupting volcano as he came during Iceland's latest eruption in Holuhraun.

In one article about photography in Iceland, he says "Iceland is the most beautiful country I've ever visited. A mysterious land of icy glaciers & fiery volcanoes that provides countless opportunities for stunning photography at every turn."

So we don't know his favourite place in Iceland but can guess that Iceland itself is one of his favourite countries and we do know that Matt will be returning to Iceland and writing more great content about it.

• See also: 15 Incredible Photographs of the Holuhraun Volcano in Iceland
• Visit the DC plane wreck in this South Coast Elements Tour

Hand Luggage Only  

Picture from Hand Luggage Only

Hand Luggage Only is run by Yaya and Lloyd from the UK. They've been to Iceland a couple of times and have lots of articles about Iceland's nature, attractions and the best food you can find in the country. 

In their own words then they set up their blog "to showcase and share advice on travelling to some of the most exciting, picturesque, pretty and immersive destinations in the world. We wanted to share our tips and help fellow travellers to find the very best places to explore."

"We love how beautiful the natural landscape is. It really is an unspoilt paradise that is so perfect for exploring. Not only that, the people of Iceland are so friendly and warm, too."

"As a travel destination, Iceland really is unique, especially for all the different experiences it offers us, travellers. From the geothermal pools of the Blue Lagoon, seeing the Northern Lights dancing, hiking up glaciers, seeing some of the world's most iconic waterfalls and whale watching in the deep seas. It's a country that's jam-packed with things to do."

"For us, it has to be the Blue Lagoon. It's so surreal bathing in the piping hot waters, all whilst in the sub-zero temperatures outside. We stayed in the Blue Lagoon hotel, that offers later opening to the private lagoon, which was perfect for laying in whilst watching the northern lights above. It really is very special."

• See also: Blue Lagoon Tours
• See also: Best Restaurants in Reykjavík

Two Monkeys Travel Group  

Picture from Two Monkeys Travel Group

Two Monkeys Travel Group is run by Kach from the Philippines and Jonathan from the UK who are currently on their year-long honeymoon and didn't have time to answer our questions as they are refurbishing a boat!

Two Monkeys Travel Group has just over half-a-dozen articles about Iceland, including tips on what to do as a first timer in Iceland, driving around yourself, chasing the Northern Lights, the Golden Circle , the Blue Lagoon, glacier hiking and a list of the best backpacker hostels.

They blend together adventure and luxury on their travels, or in their own words they seek out "the most incredible experiences on foot, mountain bike, motorbike, up mountains, through rivers and out of aeroplanes, before arriving at a luxury hotel, to be soothed back to life with a spa, a massage and some fine food! We love volunteering!

We started volunteering while investing in our Tantra Yoga certification and Ayurveda massage therapy. After getting certified, we practiced and made a living out of it. After all of those experiences, we decided to have our own travel blog as our main source of income."

We just hope that they're including Iceland in their honeymoon, as you can find a lot of romantic destinations in Iceland !

Kach travels on a passport from the Philippines and gives her readers a lot of information about visas and how to obtain them if you are travelling from the Philippines.

Find out here which nationalities need a visa to visit Iceland .

• See also: Yoga in Iceland
• See also: Top 10 Hotels in Iceland

Passion Passport  

Picture by Zeb Goodman from Passion Passport

Passion Passport is a community of bloggers, founded by Zach Houghton. On their site, you can find dozens of articles and material about Iceland, written by several people.

Britton Perelman on their editorial team says that "Passion Passport is a creative community of travel enthusiasts. Our founder, Zach, wanted to create an organisation that existed to promote meaningful and transformative travel.

We pride ourselves on producing content that adheres to these core values, whether that be in an Instagram post, a Tweet, or story on our website. In that sense, Passion Passport is for anyone who loves travel and understands the immense impact it can have on our lives."

"The phrase “there’s nowhere else like it,” is so overused, but is truer when used to describe Iceland. Geographically, it’s a country with a vastly different landscape than anywhere else in the world, and Icelandic culture developed the way it did, in large part, to match that unusual geography.

The landscape—full of waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, and wide, open fields—prompts creativity. As you explore, it’s hard not to feel inspired by Iceland."

"Iceland still has an “undiscovered” atmosphere. It recently became popular with travellers and, consequently, is very much a place that is uniquely special for each person who visits. This is due partially to the fact that there’s so much open space, which gives the illusion that you are experiencing the island as a lone explorer. But it’s also part of the charm of Iceland: as a destination, it allows each person to make it their own.

Iceland is also hard to pass up as creative people, because it naturally lends itself to visual storytelling. Photos of Iceland tell a story in and of themselves—of a vast, beautiful place with a rich history and new things to be unearthed. There’s just something otherworldly about Iceland that continues to draw people in."

"Iceland is hugely popular with the Passion Passport community and the travel community as a whole. Many of our contributors have written about looping the Ring Road and exploring every part of Iceland from Reykjavík in the west to the Southern Coast and more difficult areas in the east and north. We’ve also had several stories about the search for the abandoned airplane on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur.

Personally, members of our team have an affinity for Búðir on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Akureyri in the north, Dyrhólaey Arch, and Hjörleifshöfði Mountain in the south."

• See also: Walking Inside a Beautiful Nothing
• See also: 20 Hidden Gems in Iceland

Guide to Iceland Locals  

Last, but definitely not least, are our own local bloggers on Guide to Iceland. On Guide to Iceland's site you can connect with locals from all over the country, with various interests.

Our locals are both Icelandic people, born and raised in Iceland, or people from around the world who have now decided to make Iceland their home—or their very frequent destination. As a result, the blogs are written in a myriad of languages, English, German, Spanish, Chinese, French, Taiwanese, Polish, Dutch... the list goes on and on. Mostly, however, they are written in English. 

Following are just a few of our local bloggers, but there are dozens more to discover and new ones joining in regularly!

Regína

Our local Regína is one of the most active bloggers on Guide to Iceland and has been writing blogs almost since the website started in 2012. She is born and raised in Reykjavík, and writes in English, although she also speaks Danish and Serbian (as well as Icelandic of course). She's written more than 260 travel-blogs about all sorts of topics related to Iceland! The other local bloggers refer to her as the living encyclopaedia of Iceland.

Besides Icelandic nature, she has a special interest in Icelandic turf houses , Icelandic traditions and folklore. Have a look at her popular blog about Sænautasel Turf House in the Highlands of Iceland .

She is also responsible for coining the term Diamond Beach, when she wrote Iceland Has Got a Diamond Beach . This stunning black sand beach by Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon that's eternally scattered with glistening icebergs was referred to in a multitude of ways before she wrote that blog.

In her blogs, she always urges people to treat Iceland's nature with respect and be careful at dangerous locations, such as the  Reynisfjara black sand beach .

• Find all of Regína's blogs here

I myself, Nanna , keep a blog on Guide to Iceland as well as writing articles for the page. Whereas the articles have a hint of personal flair, they tend to be more on the informative and impartial side. In my blogs however I get more personal and tend to write about my interests, such as food and good restaurants, current events, theatre, dance and arts, equal rights , Icelandic humour and my favourite locations in Iceland in close to a hundred blogs.

I also try to explain Icelandic attitudes, often in a humorous way, and am responsible for writing an April's Fool blog each year for Guide to Iceland.

Although people like to read about topics such as  the best fish restaurant in Iceland , my blogs about Icelandic attitudes towards  Sex and Nudity  and What Not to Say to Icelanders are by far the most popular blogs I've written!

• Find all of Nanna's blogs here

Richard  both writes articles and blogs for Guide to Iceland. In fact Richard has 2 blogs on Guide to Iceland, since he also writes under his alter ego name Wanda Star . Whereas Richard writes about beautiful natural attractions in Iceland from a British standpoint, such as the hidden gem Brimketill on the Reykjanes peninsula , and delves into the Icelandic LGBTQ history in articles such as Gay Iceland: All you need to know , it's through his character Wanda Star that his fierce side blossoms.

Wanda is one of Iceland's harshest, most sarcastic, black-humoured writers. This drag-queen diva is also in her own words the most beautiful woman in Iceland. Her satirical blogs about Iceland have given her a large fan base—along with some haters! We find her rants hysterical, what do you think? Give the UGLY truth about Iceland  and Surviving the Horrors of Greenland a read to find out.

• Find all of Richard's blogs here
• Find all of Wanda's blogs here

Jórunn

Jórunn  is a photographer and has a few dozen blog posts on Guide to Iceland's site, mostly focusing on Icelandic nature and all adorned with her stunning photography. She has a lot of blogs centred around particular waterfalls in Iceland, but has also travelled all over the country photographing geothermal areas , hiking trails, mountains, valleys and glaciers.

Some of her most popular blog titles include Chasing waterfalls in Iceland  and Attractions by Skaftafell Nature Reserve .

• Find all of Jórunn's blogs here

Jón Hilmarsson

Our local  Jón  is another photographer who especially enjoys taking pictures of the Northern Lights . He spent a while living in north Iceland where he was surrounded by beautiful landscapes and held his first photography exhibition in Hofsós in Skagafjörður.

Have a look at his popular blogs  The Milky Way in Iceland  and  Aurora in Panorama .

• Find all of Jón's blogs here

Our local Mads is Danish and although he doesn't live in Iceland, he visits Iceland frequently. Mads' niche is also photography , and he will explain to his readers what makes locations in Iceland fantastic photographic destinations.

Take a look at Svartifoss as a Photography Destination  and Dynjandi as a Photography Location .

• Find all of Mads' blogs here

Read Even More About Iceland!  

If you want to find out even more about Iceland, then have a read through some of our articles, all written by locals as well.

Our articles are sectioned up into the  Nature of Iceland ,  Travel Information ,  Reykjavík Guide ,  History & Culture ,  Music of Iceland ,  The Northern Lights ,  Best of Iceland  and  Itineraries . 

For example, if you're wondering what's happening each week in terms of art, culture and live music, then you can find a weekly update as well as a list of all of Iceland's festivals in  The Top 10 Festivals in Iceland  in the Best of Iceland category. If you want to know what Iceland is like in a particular month, head to the Nature of Iceland section. Or if you want tips on what to do for a weekend, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 days or longer, then you can find out in articles in the Itineraries section.

We’ve also recently opened up a  forum  where travellers can ask questions and find answers to frequently asked questions.   

Popular articles

Guide to Iceland | The Story of the Leading Travel Agency of Iceland

The Complete Guide to the Midnight Sun in Iceland

Top 20 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland

22 Photos of the Aurora in Iceland

Mountains in Iceland

Other interesting articles.

Where is Iceland?

22 Best Things to Do on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Best Italian Restaurants in Reykjavik

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Top things to do in Iceland

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South Coast Tours

Iceland Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Iceland , but not sure where to start? This guide is for you!

Iceland is a unique place, one that impresses every visitor beyond expectations. It’s a country that has a lot to offer even to the most seasoned travelers. Iceland also transforms every season and no two trips here will ever be exactly the same. One thing is certain – no matter when or how you choose to visit Iceland, this magical place will not disappoint.

Maybe you are still undecided about visiting Iceland and are looking for travel inspiration? Or maybe you are planning your Iceland trip itinerary and don’t know where to start? Or maybe you just need some practical advice or reassurance for your upcoming trip to Iceland… You should be able to find all the information you are looking for in our Iceland travel guide.

To make your Iceland trip planning and research easier, I created this page that bundles up all our blog posts about traveling to Iceland. From sample trip itineraries and detailed guides to some of the nicest places in Iceland to practical tips and packing lists for all seasons… This travel guide should help you plan your own perfect trip to Iceland!

Our Iceland travel blog is a result of multiple trips to Iceland. Road tripping around the Ring Road in Iceland in spring, in summer, and in autumn, visiting the Icelandic highlands, exploring Iceland in winter – we’ve done it all.

Below you can find a big selection of articles filled with travel stories, inspiring images, and experience-based tips that will help you plan your own dream trip to Iceland. Our Iceland travel guide. Take a look!

* This page contains affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a qualifying purchase through such a link. More info:  Disclosure.

Practical Information for Visiting Iceland

Here you can find some practical advice for your trip to Iceland. From budget tips to packing lists and everything else you may want to know before traveling to Iceland.

• Iceland Travel Tips
• How Expensive is Iceland (+ How To Save Money)
• What to Pack and What to Wear in Iceland in Summer
• What to Pack and What to Wear in Iceland in Winter
• How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport (Complete Guide to Airport Transfers) – (also in German: Flughafentransfer Reykjavik )

Iceland Itinerary Suggestions

Here you can find our suggestions for some of the best itineraries in Iceland.

• Iceland Itinerary  (Suggestions from 1 to 14 days)
• Iceland Ring Road Itinerary (complete Ring Road in 10 days)
• Iceland Winter Trip Itinerary  (Covers all the highlights of the South Coast in 7 days in winter months, when daylight is limited)
• Iceland 4 Days Itinerary (Perfect for the first trip to Iceland, covers all the highlights of the South Coast)
• Iceland 7 Days Itinerary (Even better than the 4-day itinerary – you’ll love this trip!)
• Iceland 10 Days Itinerary (West, North and the Highlands – a mix of well-known places and off the beaten path destinations)

When to Go to Iceland

Iceland is magical in any season. It’s also so completely different in winter than it is in summer that it’s like two different countries.

If you are not sure when to visit Iceland, take a look at our articles below – they should help you decide.

• When to Visit Iceland – Summer vs. Winter
• 12 Reasons to Visit Iceland in September

Iceland in Winter

• Iceland in Winter (Travel Tips & Useful Info)
• Iceland Winter Itinerary
• Driving in Iceland in Winter
• Top 5 Winter Experiences in Iceland
• Northern Lights in Iceland (Complete Guide and FAQ)
• How To See and Photograph The Northern Lights
• My Favorite Photos from Iceland

Iceland Travel Inspiration & Destination Guides

Here you can find more detailed guides to different areas and activities in Iceland. Check it out!

• Best Places to Visit in Iceland
• Different travel inspiration – Nordic Gifts (gifts inspired by the Nordic countries and culture)

Reykjavik & South Iceland

• Best Things to Do in Reykjavik
• One Day in Reykjavik Itinerary
• Best Things to Do on the South Coast in Iceland
• Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting
• Perlan Museum in Reykjavik
• Reykjavik Hotels Guide
• Reykjanes Peninsula
• Westman Islands – Visiting Heimaey Island
• Glacier Hiking in Iceland (also in German: Gletscherwanderung Island )

West Iceland

• Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Best Things to Do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• Westfjords Itinerary
• Raudasandur Beach – Westfjords
• Dynjandi Waterfall

North Iceland

• Things to Do in Myvatn
• Hvitserkur & Vatnsnes Peninsula
• Trollaskagi Peninsula
• Siglufjordur

Icelandic Highlands

• See The Best of Iceland’s Highlands with a Private Driver – 4 Day Itinerary  (Bucket list trip, one of my favorite trips ever. If you are looking for something truly unique and want to get off the beaten path in Iceland, check it out!)
• How to Visit Haifoss Waterfall  (Can Do On Your Own)

TIP: Below is a short video featuring some of our favorite places in Iceland. Check it out for some inspiration on where to go!

Best Tours and Day Trips in Iceland

There are so many organized tours, excursions, and activities in Iceland that it’s often difficult to know where to even start. I, therefore, created some guides where I selected the very best price-quality tours available. Take a look below!

• Best Guided Tours in Iceland (All Seasons) – (also in German: Besten Touren und Aktivitäten in Island )
• Best Iceland Day Trips from Reykjavik in Winter
• Amazing Half Day Tours from Reykjavik

TIP:   For our own trips, we book pretty much all our day tours and organized activities via  GetYourGuide . It’s our favorite one-stop shop for all organized tours because they have the best customer service and cancellation policy we have ever seen. Booking directly with a local company usually means that you can’t cancel for free, let alone get a refund in case something goes wrong (as recent events recently proved…). For that, it’s always helpful to have a strong intermediary and GYG is the best one we know.

This is based on our personal experience and that of many of our readers.

Camping in Iceland

If you are planning to camp in Iceland, make sure to read this guide. It should answer all your questions!

• The most complete guide to camping in Iceland 

Accommodation in Iceland

If I can give you one piece of advice is to book your Iceland accommodation well in advance. Take a look below for some tips!

• Where to Stay in Iceland : Iceland accommodation guide for Reykjavik and along the Ring Road
• Where to Stay in Reykjavik : Complete guide to Reykjavik hotels
• Where to Stay on Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Booking.com  is our first resource when booking accommodation for all our trips, also in Iceland. They have the best selection of hotels, B&Bs, and privately owned accommodations. Furthermore, they also have the most transparent booking system with the biggest flexibility regarding cancellations.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations all over Iceland . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you can zoom in and out to find the best deals at any location. Check it out!

Car Rental in Iceland

If you are looking to rent a car in Iceland , nowadays, we recommend renting your car via Booking.com as well.

Not only can you compare different providers and find the best deals, but you are also much better protected in case a local company has issues or even goes bankrupt as it has happened with our favorite local provider in Iceland. Our experience shows that it’s best to stick to the biggest companies with the most flexible cancellation policies.

We have used Booking.com’s car rental service to book our rental cars for many destinations worldwide. We canceled and changed more rentals than I can remember and they fully reimbursed us every time, within days. Once, we also had to file an insurance claim (we always take the 100% insurance offered by them), and the money was on our account two days later. That’s the kind of service I don’t hesitate to recommend to all our readers!

Getting to Iceland

Iceland is more accessible than ever before. There are too many flight options to even try to list them here. I advise to use the most popular flight search engines to find the best deal for your trip.

If you live in Europe, it’s also possible to visit Iceland with your own car. For that, you’ll have to take a car ferry from Denmark via the Faroe Islands, to Iceland. It’s a long trip, however, so I’d only recommend doing this if you are planning to stay in Iceland for at least 3-4 weeks.

Nearby Destinations

If you are visiting Iceland and have some extra time to spare, you may want to also look into visiting the Faroe Islands and/or Greenland. Both are easy to get to from Iceland.

Here you can find inspiration for your trip to the  Faroe Islands  and here you can find some tips and an itinerary for  visiting Greenland .

Not sure where to go?  Check out our guide to  Iceland vs. Greenland

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Iceland Travel Guide

Land of extremes! Discover powerful waterfalls, natural hot springs, and the largest glaciers and most active volcanoes in Europe.

Best time to visit Iceland

Best places to visit in iceland, 6 x most picturesque churches in iceland, 6 best hot springs in iceland, 6 places to visit on snaefellsnes peninsula (west-iceland), 7 most beautiful waterfalls in iceland, map of iceland, weather in iceland.

The warmest months in Iceland are July and August, the most popular time to visit, with endless daylight perfect for exploring. For the Nothern Lights, November to March offers the best chance to witness this incredible phenomenon!

Preparing for Iceland

Iceland packing list: what to wear in iceland in summer, complete guide to camping in iceland, destinations in iceland, best things to do in reykjavik, iceland, discover the art village seydisfjordur in iceland, iceland packing list, guide to camping in iceland, best travel insurances.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Iceland via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Iceland worth visiting?

Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is home to stunning natural beauty! With unparalleled landscapes, geothermal wonders, and awe-inspiring Northern Lights, it’s a destination that promises adventure and unforgettable memories.

Is Iceland cheap to visit?

Iceland is definitely not a cheap vacation destination, but the experience is 100% worth it! There are ways to save money by camping instead of staying in hotels, preparing your own meals instead of eating out, and avoiding alcohol.

Can I drink tap water in Iceland?

Absolutely! Iceland has some of the cleanest tap water in the world. Enjoy it straight from the source using your reusable water bottle – it’s pure and very refreshing!

Do I need a visa for traveling in Iceland?

If you’re from the EU, US, and several other countries, you typically don’t need a visa for visits up to 90 days. Check the entry requirements for your country well in advance for peace of mind.

What language do they speak in Iceland?

The official language is Icelandic, a challenging language to read and pronounce. But don’t worry; most people are multilingual, speaking English and many other languages, making communication with locals a breeze.

Do I need travel insurance for Iceland?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for your trip to Iceland. It ensures peace of mind for unexpected events, like medical emergencies or trip cancellations, making your Icelandic adventure worry-free!

Is Iceland safe?

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime is exceptionally low, and the natural wonders are well-maintained, making it a secure and welcoming destination for travelers.

Why do people love Iceland?

People fall in love with Iceland’s unspoiled nature and captivating landscapes of waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, and natural hot springs. Even in the high seasons, you can always find hidden gems to explore away from crowds, offering a unique sense of tranquility.

Travel to Iceland

Nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, Iceland is a magical land of untamed beauty, where fire and ice coexist in perfect harmony. With its rugged Mars-like landscape, bubbling hot springs, and breathtaking waterfalls, Iceland is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you’re a backpacking enthusiast or seeking a cozy vacation in Iceland, this incredible island will leave you in awe.

How to plan your trip to Iceland

Follow our Iceland travel guides to plan the ultimate trip! From the charming capital city of Reykjavik , where you’ll most likely start your journey, to the remote corners of the countryside, there are plenty of things to do in Iceland.

Due to the ever-changing weather conditions and terrain, check out the Iceland packing list to ensure you don’t get caught out on your trip.

Planning to camp around Iceland? Our 2-week road trip takes you around Iceland’s ring roads and to loads of hidden gems!

Iceland’s weather varies throughout the year. When planning your journey, you’ll want to consider the unique charms each season in Iceland brings.

Summer (June – August): The summer months are the prime time to experience Iceland at its most vibrant. During this period, the days are incredibly long, with the middle to the end of June experiencing the midnight sun, where it’ll never set. The summer months are also when the weather is at its mildest, at around 10 – 15°C, making it the perfect time to travel Iceland for outdoor activities and camping adventures .

Winter (December – February): The winter months offer an entirely different yet captivating experience. While the weather will be much colder at around 0°C, this is the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights, a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon. The wintery landscapes, snow-covered volcanoes, and frozen waterfalls create a magical setting.

Shoulder Seasons (Spring and Autumn): If you prefer a balance between the two extremes, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn may be your best bet. In these transitional periods, prices will be slightly lower, and the climate in Iceland is a little more bearable, but still with the potential of seeing the Northern Lights.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your preferences. Whether it’s the endless daylight of summer, the snow-covered scenes in winter, or a mix of everything in the shoulder seasons, Iceland’s weather and climate provide unique opportunities for every type of traveler.

Coastlines and beaches in Iceland

Iceland boasts some of the most unique coastlines and beaches in the world. While you won’t find the typical white-sand, tropical beaches, Iceland’s shores have their own enchanting allure.

The dark, volcanic sands of beaches like Reynisfjara and Diamond Beach are some of the best places in Iceland to visit, creating a surreal contrast against the frothy waves and scattered blocks of ice that wash ashore from the glacier lagoon; it’s a truly magical sight. The geothermal beaches near Geysir are just as unique, where warm hot springs meet the cold ocean waters, creating pockets of warmth, showcasing Iceland’s natural diversity.

Iceland’s beaches also offer opportunities for adventure, whether that’s exploring sea caves, observing puffins in their natural habitat, or being brave enough to surf the arctic waters. Though it may not be your typical sun, sea, and sand destination, the raw and unspoiled charm of the coastline will leave a lasting impression on your holiday to Iceland.

Food, culture and religion in Iceland

Iceland is a land of contrasts, where food, culture, and religion are as diverse and captivating as its natural beauty.

Food: Icelands cuisine today is a unique blend of traditional Nordic flavors and modern culinary influences. However, in the past, resources for food used to be sparse; the Icelandic diet used to consist of fish, lamb, skyr yogurt, and some more controversial dishes like puffin and fermented shark. While those traditional influences are still prevalent, you’ll find much more variety thanks to new technology to grow vegetables and the availability of imported food, so don’t worry if you’re vegetarian.

Culture: Iceland is a Nordic country, meaning its culture is deeply rooted in its Viking history. The locals are proud of this heritage and love to share it with visitors, being incredibly welcoming people. The country is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with literature and music playing crucial roles. This is highlighted throughout the capital city of Reykjavik, with loads of art galleries and colorful houses, and Seydisfjordur , arguably one of the most beautiful towns in Iceland.

Religion: Iceland was originally populated by pagan Norse who worshipped a variety of gods and then went on to blend with Christianity. Today, the religion of most Icelanders is the Evangelical Lutheran Church, with around 5% of the population practicing ásatrú, the traditional Norse religion. This fusion is prominent in how they celebrate various holidays, such as Þorrablót, which features traditional feasting and festivities.

Why you should travel to Iceland

Iceland, often referred to as the Land of Fire and Ice, is a destination that should be at the top of your travel bucket list. From cascading waterfalls to the rugged Mars-like terrain, every corner of this country is breathtaking. The sheer diversity and uniqueness of Iceland’s landscapes will leave you in awe.

Whether you choose to book your Iceland vacation in the spring, summer, autumn, or winter, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the incredible sights that await you. The warmer months offer a chance to experience the endless sun and unforgettable activities, while the winter allows you the opportunity to see the Northern Lights or go glacier hiking.

What makes your Iceland travel unique is the unmatched collection of natural wonders. It’s a place where natural hot springs, powerful waterfalls, active volcanoes, and glaciers coexist harmoniously — a destination like no other.

Safety and travel advice Iceland

Iceland is not only renowned for its breathtaking landscapes but also as one of the safest countries in the world! However, it’s important to stay informed on your holiday in Iceland, particularly about natural disasters, weather, and road conditions.

Weather and Climate: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes even during summer. Be prepared for varying conditions, packing layers, and waterproof gear. Monitor weather updates and road conditions, especially if you plan to venture into remote areas.

Natural Disasters: Iceland is the land of active volcanoes, and eruptions can occur anytime. The country is well-prepared for volcanic events, and the authorities closely monitor volcanic activity, so always follow the advice of the local authorities. Iceland also sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is why it experiences frequent earthquakes. Most of these are minor and go unnoticed, but occasionally, larger quakes can occur.

Tip: Register with your embassy to receive emergency updates on your trip, and always take advice on the conditions before you travel to Iceland.

Crime and Safety in Iceland: Crime rates are exceptionally low, and violent crime is nearly non-existent. However, like anywhere, it’s advisable to take standard precautions such as safeguarding your belongings and locking your vehicle.

Driving: Be cautious on Iceland’s narrow and sometimes gravel roads. Always obey road signs, adhere to speed limits, and exercise caution when passing animals. Don’t underestimate the impact of strong winds on your vehicle, and be mindful of sudden snow or rain showers.

Travel Insurance: To ensure a stress-free vacation in Iceland, investing in travel insurance is definitely worth it. This can provide coverage against unforeseen disruptions, lost luggage, and unexpected accidents. Check out the best travel insurance .

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The Absolute Best Iceland Itinerary: 7 days

Iceland is one of those countries that seems to be popping up on everyone’s Instagram lately. The stunning country is filled with so many jaw-dropping views. It has become wildly famous for good reason. The country is full of waterfalls, black sand beaches, white peaked mountains, cute churches, blue glaciers, hot springs galore, and so much more. It is honestly a nature lover’s dream paradise. And, the best part is that it is super easy to plan a trip. With the acceptance of credit cards everywhere and most attractions being just a car drive away, its no wonder people flock to Iceland every year. After spending my Thanksgiving in this magnificent place, I have decided to make it easy for everyone and listed out the perfect 7 days Iceland itinerary which also includes tours if you are not in the mood to rent a car. So keep reading on for the best Iceland Itinerary 7 days edition!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

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Iceland winter itinerary vs iceland summer itinerary.

Choosing when to visit Iceland can be difficult, especially if you are spending 7 days in Iceland. On one hand, the summer months bring easy weather; but on the other hand, winter has fewer crowds. Either way, you will not be disappointed no matter what time of the year you go. I went in the winter to save money and it was still epic. My winter trip just made me want to come back in the summer to experience a different landscape.

• In the Winter:  Weather can be unpredictable, it is cheaper, less sunlight, snowy landscape, less crowded, the best sunrise and sunset pictures.
• In the Summer: Weather is the best, super crowded, green landscape, more sunlight, more costly.

How To Travel Around Iceland

There are three options on getting around Iceland in 7 days:

• Rental Car: We chose this option. I am from Texas where we drive everywhere, so I don’t like to be limited on where I go. Plus, I love getting away from the crowds so it was an easy choice to rent a car. Since we went in the winter, we stayed in hotels instead of campsites. I do not advice camping in the winter as it can be dangerous. The Iceland roads were pretty easy to travel in as the road conditions were good. I will warn you that driving in Iceland in winter can be dangerous due to random snow storms, so be wary.
• Tour Guides: There are soooo many tours in Iceland that you no longer need a car to explore. Throughout the article, I have listed the most popular tours for you. Tours are a great option if you don’t feel like planning much 🙂
• Rent a Campervan: This is a great way to save some money! You don’t need camping gear or a hotel, just your campervan. >Rent Your Campervan Here

Read More: 11+ Tips on Renting a Campervan in Iceland

Iceland Road Map

Below is the Iceland 7 day Itinerary map. You can download the map and turn on and off all the layers as needed:

Iceland Tips

• Even though Iceland is part of the EU, the country uses the Icelandic Króna instead of the EUR. Many people exchange their money, but I feel it is unnecessary. Most places accepts credit cards, and if you have a credit card that has no international/foreign exchange fees, you can skip the hassle of getting the Krona.
• If you want to avoid the crowds, the best approach is to travel further away from Reykjavik. It is easiest by renting a car or an RV. In my opinion, the best way to see Iceland is to rent a car.
• Spending one week in Iceland can be expensive. The best way to save money is to not eat at restaurants. I suggest going to grocery stores and buying food in Reykjavik or Vik. Another way to save money is to purchase sandwiches from gas stations. Most days, my husband and I ate sandwiches from the gas station and they were quite tasty. I would get different types every time so I wouldn’t get tired of them.
• Don’t go driving off-road because it is illegal.
• Only hike on established trails.
• Book all your tours in advance. Iceland is a popular travel destination so they might get sold out.
• Bring the correct type of clothing. Summer months do not mean warm months. Come prepared.

Iceland Itinerary 7 days

Day 1: fly into keflavik, blue lagoon and hang out at reykjavik.

Blue Lagoon

There are so many articles on why you should or shouldn’t visit the famous Blue Lagoon. The articles over-analyze the super touristy spot. I am one of those individuals who needs to experience it on my own to form my personal opinion. So of course, I booked my ticket right away.

My conclusion is that if you are on a fence, add it to your Iceland travel itinerary. Experience it at least once in your life. If you hate it, then never go back again. But at least you tried it out.

It is a bit crowded, but the smokey, baby blue colors and the relaxation is worth it. I recommend booking a ticket early in the day (8:00 am or 9:00am) just so there are fewer people. Based on the setup, I can imagine the place can become a madhouse at peak hours.

When you arrive,  you are given a bracelet, which will allow you to lock your belongings in a locker. Right after you put your personal items in the locker, you are required to take a shower prior to jumping into the lagoon. I recommend women to put their hair in a bun and then slather conditioner all over your hair. Don’t worry, conditioner is provided in the showers. The blue lagoon waters do dry out your hair so avoid getting your hair wet.

After the shower, you walk outside and enter the lagoon. Once the toes hit the water, all of your problems and stress magically melt away. I recommend exploring all the areas of Blue Lagoon. The lagoon has three “stands” which offer different things such as drinks, massages, and mud mask products. The drink stand will give you your first drink free, and the silica mask is free as well. Your bracelet will be assigned to you which allow you to “purchase” drinks or face masks.  At the end of the experience, you will be able to check out and pay your tab.

• Blue Lagoon Admission Ticket – Buy this ticket as soon as you buy your airplane ticket to Iceland since the Blue Lagoon admissions tickets tend to sell out. Schedule it the day you arrive in Iceland or the day you leave Iceland  >Buy The Admission Ticket Here
• From Reykjavik Airport Transport – If you are not renting a car, getting transport to and from is a great option. >Buy Your Transport Here

First Day in Reykjavik

After spending some time at the Blue Lagoon, it is time to head to the capital city of Iceland – Reykjavik. Reykjavik is located on the south western part of Iceland, making it quite nice and easy to explore the rest of the country from here.

Blue Lagoon/Keflavik to Reykjavik is about 45 minutes to 1 hour drive away. Upon arriving at Reykjavik, head to your hotel to check-in. We stayed at Ion City Hotel , which is such a chic, beautiful hotel. After checking in, it is time for some quick exploration. It is recommended that you explore Reykjavik by walking – as some of the lanes don’t allow for vehicle entry.

First stop is the Laugavegur Street. This is one of the prettiest streets in Reykjavik and also their main street. You will find beautiful murals on the walls, street art, great restaurants, bars and souvenir stores at Laugavegur Street. Our favorite restaurant here was the Scandinavia and Joe and Juice, which became a morning ritual.

The city offers numerous wonderful tours which are conducted in the afternoons. These walking tours are an amazing way to learn about Iceland’s history – from Vikings to the establishment of the Alpingi (parliament) and the modern day economic recession and revival of Icelandic economy with the tourism and nationalized banks. The tours typically last 2-3 hours.

If you like to explore on your own, then head to the Hallgrímskirkja Church next. Hallgrímskirkja Church is an iconic landmark of Iceland. You can see this tallest church from anywhere in the city of Reykjavik. This is a Lutheran church and it is open to public everyday. Entry to the church is free, but to access the towers, there is an additional charge of $10 USD per adult. We highly recommend that you take the church tower access, you will be rewarded with amazing city views of Reykjavik, with its red, blue and multi-colored houses. You can easily spend 1-2 hours here.

By now, the sun is likely setting. This is the best time to stroll around the city, eat, and grab a drink or two. Reykjavik comes alive in the evening, so definitely check it out.

It is true that Reykjavik is expensive when it comes to food. For meals everyday, it is a good idea to get some Icelandic delicacies from one of their grocery stores (Bonus, Kronas, 10-11 – grocery stores located in downtown Reykjavik). There is a budget eating place in downtown Reykjavik (all you can eat style) – called Reykjavik Street Food. You have to try their Icelandic lamb soup. Not only is it delicious, but it is noticeably cheaper when compared to other restaurants.

Where to Stay In Reykjavik

• Ion City Hotel  is the hotel we stayed at in Reykjavik. It is chic, fancy and in an entertaining area. I love how close everything is and being able to walk around with all the Christmas decorations. Sigh… So magical!  >Check Pricing and Availability
• 101 Hotel  is located only a few minutes walk from the Icelandic Phallological Museum and usually has incredible rates. I stayed here in the summer and I am in love with the black and white modern look of the rooms!  >Check Pricing and Availability 
• The Hotel Lotus  is an affordable accommodation with Kringlan Shopping Center only 0.6 miles away! There is also an in-house restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner.  >Check Pricing and Availability  

Looking for more places to stay in Reykjavik? Read About The Best Places To Stay In Iceland

Day 2: Explore Reykjavik

Next morning, explore more of the Reykjavik city. Reykjavik is located by the Faxa Bay, so you can expect amazing river-front views. Take a stroll along the harbour front and visit some of the other popular tourist spots in the capital city. The Sun Voyager is a sculpture located by the harbor front. It is accessible 24/7. Close to the Sun Voyager is the stunning Harpa Concert Hall. Built in the 2000s, the “Harpa” is home of Icelandic festivals and Orchestra and is characterized by the shiny glass architecture.

There are quite a few interesting museums in the Reykjavik city, that are definitely worth a visit. Iceland Maritime Museum, Icelandic Phallological Museum, Icelandic Art Museum, the National Gallery of Iceland – to name a few.

There is also the new amazing Sky Lagoon that everyone is talking about. This lagoon is located in Reykjavik and is less crowded than the blue lagoon. The views are absolutely gorgeous too. I even did the seven-step ritual and had an amazing experience. >You can book a ticket here

I also recommend doing some shopping around Reykjavik. Iceland is known for its wool, so I bought some sweaters, jackets, blankets, and hats. Icewear Iceland is the best place to shop at for Icelandic wool.

Looking for more things to do in Reykjavik? Read the free and cheap things to do in Reykjavik here .

Reykjavik area written by Mayuri at To Some Place New

Day 3: Golden Circle

Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir National Park)

One of the most famous national parks and a world heritage Unesco site in Iceland is Thingvellir National Park. Thingvellir is a must for your 1 week in Iceland trip. The park is filled with waterfalls, old churches, ruins, and mid-Atlantic rifts which means you will be walking on two continents/ tectonic plates: The North American Plates and the Eurasian Plates. Iceland is the only place in the world where you can walk on two different tectonic plates.

When we entered the park, we slowly walked around and took in all the beauty and took pictures of the waterfalls and the unique landscape. Many people also scuba dive or snorkel in the Silfra. You can book your Silfra snorkel tour here.  If you do book a snorkel or dive tour please note that it will probably take half a day so you might not have time to explore the other areas listed on this day.

The Geysir is an easy attraction to add to your Iceland road trip itinerary. The area has restaurants, tourists shops, and it even has a Geysir! This was our first time seeing a Geysir, so I was super impressed. Parking is free, and it was easy to find a spot even with the crowds. The Geysir sprays water every few minutes (up to 20-40 meters high) so make sure to take videos and pictures of this phenomenon. Just don’t get too close as the water is sweltering:-)

Note: This is a great area to stop and have lunch at.

Gullfoss Waterfall

When we arrived at this waterfall, we were in absolute shock! Gullfoss was the largest waterfall I have ever seen, and there was a 360° rainbow! The only downside was that it was pretty crowded and the floor was slippery, so be careful. I almost fell on my face a couple of times, not going to lie 🙂

Gullfoss translates to “Golden Falls” which was exactly how I felt described this place. I mean look at that picture above, if that doesn’t describe golden falls, I don’t know what will. The waterfall should be thought of as two separate features with one cascade measuring at 11 meters and the taller one measuring at 21 meters.

Kerid Crater

When planning a trip to Iceland, make sure to add this volcanic crater to your list. I loved how the green water looked with the dark red color of the crater. It is a perfect detour from the Gullfoss, Thingvellir, and the Geysir since it isn’t as crowded as the other three sites. You do have to pay for parking which we did with our credit card (about 400 ISK).

You can either hike around the crater or hike down to the water. We decided to get closer to the crater and take more pictures as shown below.

Take Pictures With Icelandic Horses

This honestly can be done on any of the days when seeing Iceland by car, but I decided to add this here since we took pictures with the horses while exploring the Golden Circle. You will have so many opportunities to hang out with the horses because they are everywhere!

Just make sure not to feed the horses and not to touch them. Feeding them or petting them does more harm than good.

Golden Circle Tours

• Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full Day Tour with Kerid Crater –  One of the most popular tours in Iceland, takes you to see Gullfoss Waterfall, the geyser of Strokkur, the volcanic crater at Kerið, and Þingvellir National Park. This tour lasts about 8 hours, and they pick you up at Reykjavik.    >Buy Tour Now

Where To Stay Near The Golden Circle

I recommend staying in Reykjavik on this day. But, if you are driving in Iceland on your own then you can probably stay at a hotel much closer:

• Ion Luxury Adventure Hotel – We stayed at the Ion hotel while we toured the Golden Circle. Super Chic and away from the hustle and bustle. The hotel has a delicious restaurant and a pretty rad looking pool. Perfect for Instagram pictures. >Book Your Stay Here

Day 4: South Iceland

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Day four consists of exploring South Iceland. The first stop is one of the most famous waterfalls called Seljalandsfoss located on route 1 Iceland. The waterfall is about 60 meters tall and is part of the Seljalands River.

When traveling around Iceland, you can usually spot the beautiful waterfall a long ways away before you get to it. It truly is magnificent. You do have to pay for parking, and it is 700ISK per car. There is a Kiosk machine that takes credit cards.

The best part about this waterfall is you can actually walk behind the waterfall. If you want to go behind the waterfall, I highly recommend a raincoat because you will get soaked! In the wintertime going behind the waterfall can be closed due to the path being too slippery.

Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

Located right next to the famous Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi Waterfall is a must stop. The waterfall is located walking distance away from Seljalandsfoss, and it is less crowded. The waterfall is 40 meters high and is blocked from view behind a massive cliff. Bring good rainboots and raincoat as you will get soaked.

Skógafoss Waterfall

One of the most well-known waterfalls in Iceland, Skógafoss should be on everyone’s South Iceland itinerary. The waterfall stands at 60 meters, is 25 meters wide, and is located right off the Iceland highway 1. There is even an option of walking up the steps to view the beautiful waterfall from above (525 steps worth).

Hidden Waterfall

One of my favorite parts of my Iceland road trip itinerary was discovering a hidden waterfall called Kvernufoss. The waterfall is located near the Skogar Museum, and if you walk east, you will find a fence that you will need to hop over. Eventually, the path will lead you to a wonderful waterfall. Make sure to take care of Kvernufoss, and to keep it hidden away from the hordes of tourists.

Dyrhólaey Lighthouse Viewpoint

When we were visiting Iceland, we loved seeing the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse. It was our first time seeing a black sand beach so getting the views from the top were surreal. The area is unfortunately not open all year long for cars due to bird nesting season.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

One of the most famous black sand beaches is located on the south coast near the small city of Vik. This place is usually crowded with tourists, but I still feel it is necessary to stop. The beach is one of a kind and includes crazily shaped basalt rocks, basalt cliffs, and of course black sand. You can usually walk away from the crowds to take some pictures on your own.

The two Basalt Cliffs are called Reynisdrangar and legend has it that the two cliffs are trolls that turned into stone when they stayed too long in the daylight.

South Island Tours

South Island is one of the most popular spots in Iceland. Getting a tour in this area is not difficult at all. Here is the most popular South Island Tour from Reykjavik:

South of Iceland Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik –  The duration is about 10 hours, and you get to visit Seljalandsfoss, Vik, Sólheimajökull glacier, Skógafoss waterfall, and see the black sand beaches of the southern coast.  >Book Your Tour Here

Vik is such a cute town to explore. It is also a great place to grab food, or go grocery shopping. I liked exploring the Vík i Myrdal Church. If you go around the right time (June/July) the area will be filled with wildflowers. It is pretty epic.

Where To Stay In Vik

If you are not doing a south island tour and you are driving around Iceland on your own, I recommend staying at Vik for the night. Driving all the way back to Reykjavik will make you lose precious Iceland exploring time.

• Vik Apartments  are pretty much a home away from home. The hotel comes with a full kitchen, living room, an awesome balcony with stunning views of the black beach. I recommend this place for families or friends traveling together as there are multiple bedrooms.  >Check Pricing and Availability
• Black Beach Suites  was my FAVORITE accommodation in Iceland. I loved that it had a full kitchen and dining table. Hubby even cooked me breakfast in the morning. You can walk to the famous black sand beach from the patio. I wish we had stayed more than one night.  >Check Pricing and Availability
• The Barn  is one of the fanciest hostels I have ever seen. This place is exceptionally chic and clean. I had to go inside to check into our Black Beach Suites, and I was surprised to find out it was a hostel! If you are on a budget, I HIGHLY recommend this place.  >Check Pricing and Availability

Day 5: South East Iceland

Tour around Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

The glacial lagoon was probably my favorite part of my Iceland one-week itinerary. The area is absolutely epic and has so much to offer! You can take a boat tour, visit ice caves, go glacier hiking, or take amazing Instagram pictures at the shores. Regardless of what you do, it will be amazing.

Since we visited Iceland in the Winter, we decided to do the one thing that can not be done all year round: Ice Cave exploring . You must hire a guide for this, and it can only be done in the winter time. I enjoyed it, but one thing that bugged me was how rushed it felt. But, it is understandable since so many people trying to see the Ice Caves as well.

The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a popular destination for tours leading to many other adventure options besides the Ice Caves; like boat tours, and glacier hiking. Most tours start early in the morning near the lagoon.

Our ice cave tour ended in the early afternoon. Afterward, we ate at one of the two food trucks located on site. The food was delicious!

Diamond Beach

Make sure to add this to your Iceland trip itinerary because this beach is spectacular. The ice comes in all shapes and sizes, and they are always changing. This is a great spot to take drone photos and to practice your photography skills (especially during sunset). Winter time is the best time to visit this beach as the diamonds are huge compared to the summer. See the pictures above and below.

Southeast Island Tours

Due to different seasons, I recommend two tours near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. One tour is for the summer, and the other is for the winter:

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour –  This tour departs from Reykjavik and also includes Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Vik. This is a 14-hour tour. This is an excellent option for the summer.   >Book Your Tour Here
• Crystal Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon –   The tour meets in the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon so you will have to find transportation to the lagoon yourselves. This is the tour we took, and we enjoyed it.  >Book Your Tour Here

Where To Stay In Höfn

Staying at Höfn is an excellent idea after exploring around Jökulsárlón all day. The city has several accommodations and isn’t as crowded as many of the other towns near Reykjavik. If you have extra time and want to soak in a hot tub, check out the Hoffell hot tubs  near Höfn.

• Seljavellir Guesthouse  is a great hotel with big patio window doors with wonderful views of the outdoors. There is even a bar and a terrace to relax.  >Check Pricing and Availability
• Milk Factory  is a cute bed and breakfast that used to be an actual Milk Factory! Recently renovated the B&B has some great views of the surrounding mountains.  >Check Pricing and Availability
• Höfn Hostel  If you are looking for cheap accommodation the Hofn Hostel is for you. This hostel is an environmentally friendly place with a guest kitchen and laundry services.   >Check Pricing and Availability

Day 6: Explore Höfn and Stokksness and Drive Back To Reykjavik

If you are touring Iceland by car, you need to stop by Stokksnes. The peninsula holds the stunning and tall mountains called Vestrahorn. You do have to pay for a small entrance fee but doing so is entirely worth it. The black sand beach next to tall spiring mountains is a perfect spot for photographers.

We also got some killer sunset and sunrise shots in this area (as seen below). I just loved how there were fewer crowds near Höfn. After being surrounded by people every step of the way, it was nice to get some pictures without people around.

Svartifoss should be in your Iceland self drive itinerary. The waterfall is about 20 meters tall and has black columnar basalt walls. The waterfall is located in Skaftafell which is part of Vatnajökull National Park.

Get to the Skaftafell visitor center and ask for a hiking map to get to Svartifoss. The hike is about 1.5Km from the visitors center and can take 1.5-3 hours to complete (depending on how long you like to take pictures).

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

If you are driving around Iceland, make sure to stop at the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. The canyon is believed to be formed at the end of the last Ice Age, about nine thousand years ago. You can hike around the edge of the canyon to view from above. There are many stopping points throughout the canyon to take pictures. At the end of the hike, there is a stunning tall flowing waterfall.

More than likely you will be coming back to Reykjavik either in the late afternoon or evening. On our last night, we went to the Staff Kitchen and Bar . The tapas plate we ordered to share was pretty good.

Day 7: Head to The Airport

After a road trip around Iceland, it is time to get back home. If you didn’t rent a car, then book a bus transfer from Reykjavik and Keflavik here.

Additional Readings

Welp this is how we spent a week in Iceland. Make sure to check out some of my other blog posts and let me know if you have any questions in the comments below:

• Things to Do In Iceland In The Winter
• Ultimate Guide to What To Wear In Iceland

Also, follow me on Instagram, where I discuss all things hiking, camping, and backpacking. You can get ready for your next outdoor adventure!   Follow Me Here .

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Ready to start hiking? Grab my free hiking checklist and never forget anything at home!

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33 comments.

Your maps are fantastic! It is so helpful having an idea of where everything is, especially when all the names look similar!

Thank you 🙂

Your Iceland itinerary looks amazing! The crater and waterfall look out of this world, and I so want to see the super cute Icelandic horses. I’ll pin this for my trip!

I can’t believe how many stunning photos you’ve fit into one post! I’d love to do a campervan trip around Iceland someday, and this is the first guide I’ve read that’s seriously made me consider going in the winter– those ice caves! Diamond Beach!

I know Diamond Beach is such a dream!

This looks like an amazing itinerary and it’s very well written! I’m trying to plan a trip to Iceland and this has given me so much inspiration on where to start!

Awww I am so glad you liked it!

Wow! Phenomenal post, map, and itinerary! I spent 21 days in Iceland in 2011 and am planning a week-long trip for my family to go next summer. This is very helpful and has me fired up! Your images are spectacular and the writing is top-notch as well. I have one question. The map seems to be missing day two; is it me or am did I do something on my end to remove the second day? Thanks for sharing this fantastic work and I wish you many more journeys! Todd

Hey Todd! Wow, thank you for your kind words I can not appreciate it enough! Yes, you were so right! My map was missing the 2nd day so I have updated it! I really appreciate you telling me and I really hope you have a great time with your family 🙂 Cheers!

I really enjoyed reading your blog. I’m planning a 7 day self guided road trip to Iceland next summer and this helped so much with getting some ideas. I loved how you incorporated map and pictures as well as suggestions of where to stay.

I am so glad you liked it! I love when blogs include maps and places to stay. It makes it so much easier for us!

I love your outfits and hats so much. What are the brands of the boots and jackets you have in the pictures you have posted? You are so cute in them!!

Hey Sherry here is my packing list 🙂

Hello! I just wanted to say thanks so much for this post. We recently took a road trip through Iceland, and I followed this post for inspiration and a route. I agree, we really liked Black Beach Suites and Seljavellir Guesthouse. You saved me a lot of time! Thanks again!

Thank you so much! That makes me so happy to hear 😀

Hi, Looking to go to Iceland in January. Where would I go the see the Northern lights? Thanks, Al

The best time to see them is in the winter. You can usually see them in most places in Iceland. But it is better if you get out of Reykjavik. Just keep on looking online to see updates on when it is out. You can also get the hotel to wake you if there is any activity.

I have been searching near and far for some tips on a Feb. Iceland trip and I cannot thank you enough for this post! Seriously the most perfect fit for our trip – THANK YOU!

Thank you Karin! So happy you liked it 🙂

Your pictures are phenomenal! What camera are you using? Your itinerary has been so helpful and have saved me so much time!

Thank you! I used the Sony A6000!

What would you recommend if you had one extra day? We are planning on following your itinerary but have one extra full day!

I recommend Snaefellsjokull National Park!

This is incredible! My boyfriend and I are planning to go to Iceland next June. I told him I would be happy doing everything on your blog. This is very informative and makes me so excited to go!! Thank you for such great info!

Yay I am so happy you like it 🙂

This looks like an amazing trip! I’m trying to plan for next year (hoping travel is okay from a COVID standpoint by then). Did you see the Northern Lights? If so, where did you see them? Thanks!

I saw them but they were not as pretty as I have seen in pictures. It looked like a cloud. I think I was just not lucky.

I just used your itinerary as the basis for my own trip (June 2022) and I have to say it was balanced, well-paced, and super fun. I even cross-referenced your stops with other sites like Lonely Planet and Reddit and this definitely has the highlights you want to see. We ended up making some changes to accommodations and tacked on some extra days in Reykjavik at the end, but if you are thinking of visiting Iceland (and not doing the Ring Road), I really recommend doing a version similar to this. If you are going in summer, instead of the Ice Cave, I highly recommend going kayaking in the Glacier Lagoon instead. Thanks for posting this!

Thank you so much for this comment! As a blogger, I rarely get feedback after people’s trips, so good to know you enjoyed it. I will be going back next month so hopefully, I can write a 14-day itinerary:-D.

Hi Michelle, Thank you for your itinerary. My husband and I just got back from Iceland, and we used it as our planning tool. It was awesome 🙂 Allison

Yay so glad you liked it!

Hi! I wanted to let you know I used your itinerary information extensively this past week when I took my 18-year old son to Iceland for his birthday/high school graduation trip, and it was amazing!! We did 7 days + 2 days for air travel, and we added a day on Westman Islands to your suggestions. It was amazing! The weather was phenomenal and we saw so much beauty! Thanks for putting this out there into the universe for other people to benefit from. ❤️

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27 Absolute Best Things to do in Iceland

Home » Blog » Europe » Iceland » 27 Absolute Best Things to do in Iceland

There are so many incredible things to do in Iceland it can be overwhelming to try and plan your trip. We’ve rounded up the top adventures, sights to see and culinary experiences so you can create your own Iceland bucket list.

With active volcanoes, black sand beaches, rushing waterfalls and glacial lagoons, Iceland is a nature-lover’s haven. And for those who get excited by culture and foodie delights, there are plenty of charming towns, historic sights and elevated culinary experiences to make your heart pitter-patter.

With so many things to do in Iceland, where is one to start? Well, we think we have a pretty darn good list to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Whether you’re an adventure junkie seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience or you have an affinity for the finer things in life, Iceland is sure to knock your travel socks right off. Before you know it you’ll be planning a return trip to this spectacular country. (We’re already dreaming about our third visit!)

Without further adieu, let’s dive into our curated list of the very best things to do in Iceland – complete with insider tips so you can start planning your own Icelandic adventure!

Iceland Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Iceland, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

• How many days do you need
• Iceland itinerary
• Best time to visit
• How to get around
• Tips for visiting
• What to pack

Top things to do in Iceland

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Iceland, here are our top recommendations: 

• Go on an epic road trip
• Soak in as many hot springs as possible
• Discover the Golden Circle
• Hike the Fimmvörðuháls trail
• Chase waterfalls
• Explore Reykjavik

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Iceland. 

1. Go on an epic road trip 

Iceland is a country made for road tripping. If you have more than 3 days, we’d highly, highly recommend renting a car , or better yet, a campervan , and hit the road to explore!

Outside of Reykjavík, it’s very difficult to experience much of this country without your own vehicle. 

Pack your favorite snacks, crank the tunes and roll down the windows… well, maybe not – it gets pretty cold in Iceland – and prepare for the road trip of a lifetime!

Use our Iceland road trip planning guide to help you plan your trip. 

Here are some of the top Iceland road trips we’d recommend:

• South Iceland: See the highlights of Iceland’s southern coast on this perfect Iceland itinerary
• Ring Road : If you have the time, we highly recommend doing a road trip around the entire Ring Road that encircles the country. 
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula: If you’re pressed for time, or just want to see something different, check out the beauty on this peninsula just a few hours north of Reykjavik.
• Golden Circle : An absolute must on your first trip to Iceland, see #3 for details!

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We’ve traveled to Iceland 3 times now and spent weeks living in a campervan, traveling around the country. We’ve been able to explore a lot of what Iceland has to offer!

We’ve compiled our experience to create the  perfect Iceland itinerary . Our itinerary is for 7-9 days and meant to be explored while traveling in a campervan. It includes the  highlights of the southern coast of Iceland. 

We’ll send you our complete 7-9 day customizable itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  perfect Iceland itinerary  today!

2. Soak in as many hot springs as possible  

Being that Iceland is known for its geothermal activity, it should come as no surprise that hot springs are about as numerous as sheep. Well, that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but you get the point. 

From rustic hot pots in the middle of nowhere to bougie hot spring resorts where you can enjoy a massage, a facial and Prosecco all while soaking in tepid waters *Blue Lagoon, cough, cough*, there are quite a variety of hot springs to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure and don’t mind a bit of effort (or algae!) or you prefer being pampered and would prefer your soaking experience be algae-free, visiting a hot spring (or 5!) in Iceland should definitely be on your itinerary. 

Our favorite Iceland hot springs

• Fosslaug : Small riverside pool requiring a short and easy walk to reach
• Hrunalaug : A very natural hot spring that looks like a scene out of Lord of the Rings
• Reyklajular Thermal River : A picturesque geo-thermal river that requires a roughly 1 hour hike in
• Sky Lagoon : Luxury bathing near Reykjavík with pools overlooking the ocean
• Blue Lagoon : Iceland’s most famous hot spring known for its milky-blue color
• Myvatn Nature Baths : Located in north Iceland, this is a great alternative to the Blue Lagoon without the crowds. 
• Secret Lagoon : Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, although far from “secret” as the name would suggest

We’ve created a list of our favorite hot springs in Iceland , including our own personal tips and things you should know before you don your bikini. 

This round-up includes an array of different soaking options — from totally free and little-known hot springs to the luxurious resorts that are known around the world.

3. Discover the Golden Circle

Driving the Golden Circle is sort of a rite of passage on most visitors’ first trip to Iceland. This route encircles three major attractions:

• Thingvellir National Park
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Geysir 

Lucky for you, we have an entire guide to the Golden Circle , packed with useful tidbits and hidden gems along the way.

4. Hike the Fimmvörðuháls trail

While this suggestion may not be for every traveler, if you are an avid hiker you’ll definitely want to put this trek on your Iceland bucket list. 

This 15.5-mile trail brings you through some of the most dramatically diverse landscapes in the country , making it one of the best hikes in Iceland .

Sound like fun? We’ve written a super comprehensive guide to the Fimmvörðuháls hike so you can know exactly what to expect!

5. Go chasing waterfalls

Iceland has the highest concentration of waterfalls of any place we’ve ever visited in the world. (And that’s saying a lot for two people who live in the Pacific Northwest!)

There are waterfalls everywhere. You’ll be driving and BOOM – you’ll see one waterfall after another. 

And these aren’t just trickles, friends. I’m talking about legitimate, gushing waterfalls. 

So how do you determine which waterfalls are worth seeing? That’s a tough question to answer, but we’ll get your started with a list of our top recs.

Our favorite waterfalls in Iceland

• Gullfoss waterfall : Often hailed as the most famous waterfall in Iceland
• Brúarfoss : An off-the-beaten path attraction and possibly the bluest waterfall in all of Iceland
• Glymur waterfall : The second tallest waterfall in Iceland
• Seljalandsfoss waterfall : Can walk behind the falls⁠—best to see at sunset
• Gluggafoss : A quick detour from Ring Road and much less crowded
• Kirkjufellsfoss : A good one to photograph with a a cone-shaped mountain looming in the near distance
• Skógafoss waterfall : Another ultra-popular site, but very cool to see and you can walk right up to the water
• Dettifoss waterfall : The largest waterfall in Iceland by volume!

We’ve put together a list of the best waterfalls in Iceland – from the uber famous (and rightly so!) Skógafoss to seldom-visited falls that require a bit of effort to reach.

6. Explore Reykjavík 

Despite being a relatively small capital city, Reykjavík is absolutely packed with fun things to do. With next-level restaurants that’ll impress even the snobbiest of foodies to eclectic and colorful street art , this city is sure to charm just about any traveler.

While exploring downtown Reykjavík, be sure to wander the colorful streets , take advantage of the vibrant food and nightlife scene , and experience some free sightseeing along the way.

We’ve rounded up our top things to do in Reykjavík so all the research has basically been done for you!

7. Wake up with a view 

We may be biased, but we think camping is the best way to experience all the beauty and adventure that Iceland has to offer . Whether you choose to pitch a tent or rent a campervan in Iceland , you’re in for one hell of an adventure!

While campervanning around Iceland, we fell asleep under the stars and woke up with coffee next to waterfalls. We ventured to remote canyons and hidden hot springs. And we made memories we’ll be talking about for years.

If that sounds dreamy to you, be sure to check out our complete guide to camping in Iceland . It legitimately has everything you need to know to prepare for a trip of a lifetime. Plus, we’ll answer all your burning questions, so it’s good to check out if you’re on the fence.

8. Stay at unique accommodation

There are all sorts of cool places to stay at in Iceland – bubble hotels, farm stays, mountain huts, and luxurious “cabins” made of glass (perfect for *hopefully* seeing the Northern Lights!).

One of the best ways to find cool accommodation in Iceland is to search on Airbnb using their filters. You can set it up so it only shows you “unique stays” or “stays with hot tubs”, for instance. 

Want a shortcut? We rounded up some of the best Airbnbs in Iceland just for you!

9. Try Icelandic cuisine

One of our favorite things to do while traveling anywhere in the world is to indulge in the local flavors because: 

a) we like to eat (!!!) 

b) it gives you a glimpse into the culture and how locals live

And Iceland was no exception. We ate our way through the country, all in the name of “research”. 

Icelandic cuisine is heavy on seafood, lamb and potatoes, and can be described as a whole as “comfort food for a cozy fall day”. (Well, at least that’s how I like to describe it!)

We’ve rounded up all the best foods to try in Iceland so you have a go-to checklist of dishes to sample on your trip. And we’ve also explained which foods you can skip during your trip to Iceland.

Calling all foodies! If you too love eating on your travels (hey, let’s be friends!), we’d highly recommend doing a food tour with Reykjavík Food Walk . Use the discount code TWS10 when you check out to get 10% off your tour price.

10. Take a hike!

No, we’re not telling you to get lost.

Hiking in is one of the absolute, all-time, CAN’T-MISS things to do in Iceland. This country was absolutely made for exploring on foot. 

Whether you’re an avid hiker or you’re simply up for a bit of a heart-thumping adventure on your trip to Iceland, there are plenty of trails around the country that’ll make you fall head-over-hiking boots. Corny, but true.

As hiking enthusiasts ourselves, we’ve done quite a bit of trekking around this jaw-dropping country and we’ve compiled a list of our favorite Iceland hikes to share with you.

11. Walk on Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Iceland’s coast is dotted with black sand beaches. With all of the volcanic activity on this island nation, it’s easy to see why. While traveling in Iceland, be sure to stroll along at least one black sand beach – there are plenty to choose from. 

One of the most famous and most beautiful beaches in Iceland is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach . Situated on Iceland’s south coast not far from the small town of Vík, this is a good black sand beach to add to your itinerary.

12. Visit the tranquil (but eerie) Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool

Built in 1923, this is one of the oldest public pools in all of Iceland (some accounts claim it is the oldest). We’ve visited this hot pool twice – once in 2016 and again in 2021 – and we enjoyed our visit both times. That said, there are a few things you should know…

Seljavallalaug is a 25-meter outdoor public pool fed by a natural hot spring . The water in the pool is lukewarm (not hot), and the bottom of the pool has algae so it’s a little slippery in places.

It didn’t bother us, but don’t expect clean, pristine water here. There was also some trash around left from other visitors and graffiti in the changing rooms when we visited. 

The facilities are minimal , changing rooms are separated by gender, but there are no doors, just stalls, so it’s not that private. There are no toilets here either. 

The “hike in” is an easy 20-minute walk along the riverbed to reach this pool. On our most recent visit, we were the only ones there for a while.

Find out exactly how to get there and everything else you need to know in our guide to visiting Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool .

13. (Try to) see the Northern Lights

Gazing up at a sky dancing in hues of green is on many-a-travelers’ bucket lists. And while seeing the Aurora Borealis in person is an experience that you will cherish forever, I’m going to pop in and be a bit of a buzzkill…

You have to be very lucky to see the Northern Lights. If you go into your trip expecting to see this natural phenomenon, you very likely may be disappointed.

But if you go in with an open mind and a few tricks to hopefully help you spot them, this may be a highlight of your trip.

Tips for seeing the Northern Lights

• Plan your trip right
• Download a Northern Lights app (it’s one of our top Iceland app recommendations )
• Watch the weather
• Try again and again
• Set an alarm

14. Go whale watching

Being that Iceland is an island nation, there are plenty of opportunities to go whale watching. The two most popular spots are in Husavik (a small town on Iceland’s northern coast) and in the waters just outside of Reykjavík.

While it is never guaranteed that you will see whales – they are wild creatures, after all – you do have a pretty good chance of spotting these gentle giants breaching. 

Our experience:

We went whale watching with North Sailing and while it was fun to be out on the water on a rare sunny and hot Icelandic day, we didn’t get very lucky with spotting whales. We saw a small minke whale from a distance, but that was it.

That said, we appreciate that laws in Iceland prevent tour companies from chasing whales or using sonar technology to find them. This makes it a much better environment for the whales, and even more special when you do get to see them up close.

Insider tip: If you tend to get seasick, be sure to take medicine or natural remedies with you.

15. See puffins

If you are traveling to Iceland during the spring and summer months, you have a good chance of spotting these cuties if you know where to look. 

Iceland is one of the best places to see these charismatic black and white birds, as more than half of the world’s Atlantic puffin population make a visit to Iceland each year. From late March to late August, it is estimated that between 8 and 10 million puffins flock to Iceland, forming large breeding colonies.

With their cute, clown-like faces and playful nature, these birds are incredibly fun to photograph. Just be sure to maintain your distance (use a zoom lens!), and never feed them (or any wild animal, on that note).

Fun fact: Did you know that puffins mate for life?!

Best places to spot puffins in Iceland:

• Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands): This is the largest puffin colony in the world, but it requires a bit of effort to get here as you will need to take a ferry to the island.
• Dyrhólaey: This cliffside on Iceland’s south coast is where we have seen puffins on two separate trips. While not the largest colony, this is a convenient place to spot them as most visitors driving the Ring Road will pass by this location.
• Látrabjarg: These remote cliffs in the Westfjords are a great place to see puffins if your itinerary brings you to Iceland’s sparsely populated western region. 
• Lundey & Akurey Islands: If you want the best chance of spotting puffins without venturing far from Reykjavík, this is your best bet. You can catch a short boat ride from the city’s old harbor to these uninhabited neighboring islands that are known for Iceland’s favorite bird. In fact Lundey translates to “puffin island”. 
• Borgarfjörður Eystri: This cliffside area is located in the east fjords, and 1 1.5-hour detour off of the Ring Road. Those who make the journey will be rewarded with the sight of nearly 10,000 pairs of puffins that call nesting at Borgarfjörður Eystri home each summer.

16. Wander cute Icelandic towns

For a small country, Iceland has a surprising number of super cute towns. Well, I suppose that’s a subjective statement, but if you think fishing villages flanked by mountains, colorful buildings and a quaint atmosphere is cute , then you’ll surely agree with me. And if you don’t think that’s a winning combination, you may want to check your pulse.

Here are some of the cutest towns in Iceland (in our opinion!):

• Seydisfjordur

17. Snorkel between continents

Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure is an experience you can’t get anywhere else in the world. This is the spot where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. They are pulling apart slowly and have created a rift that can be seen above ground and just below the water’s surface. 

The water hovers around around 36°F (2°C) year round (yes, this tour can be done during any season). Because of the near-freezing temps, you won’t see much underwater life, but this place boasts visibility up to 100 meters (330 feet), which is unparalleled and an experience in and of itself. 

Are you a scuba diver? This is ranked time and time again as one of the best places to dive in the world. The catch? You must either carry a certification for dry suit diving or you must have 10 logged dry suit dives (one of which must have been during the last 2 years).

18. Be wowed by Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

One of the coolest – both literally and figuratively – natural  wonders in Iceland are the glacier lagoons. 

Whether you’re driving around the whole Ring Road or you’re just exploring Iceland for a handful of days, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of the best stops you can make.

It is utter magic. Imagine giant chunks of ice in all shades of blue floating in a body of water in front of you as sea birds swoop down from above and seals break the water’s surface with their whiskered noses. 

While you can book a glacier lagoon kayak tour or a motorized boat excursion, simply just walking around the lagoon and enjoying the sight from shore is an experience that you won’t soon forget.

After getting your fill at Jökulsárlón Lagoon itself, be sure to make your way to the nearby Diamond Beach where you can see ice chunks that have washed up on the black sand shore

Good to know: Jökulsárlón is undoubtedly the most famous glacier lagoon in Iceland, but it’s not the only one. Fjallsárlón is not far from its more popular sister, but it’s pretty cool to check out this lesser-known lagoon if you have the time. 

19. Hike to Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

There aren’t many places in the world where you can see a plane wreck on a black sand beach… Come to think of it, this may be the only one.

The Sólheimasandur plane wreck is on Iceland’s south coast, not far from the town of Vík, and is popular with photographers and travelers seeking a unique sight . Near the ocean’s edge, you’ll find the remains of a 1973 U.S. Navy plane that crashed at this spot after running out of fuel. Thankfully, everyone on board survived.

Visiting this popular spot is easy. You simply park in this lot , and follow the marked path for a little more than 2 miles (3.5 km) until you reach the wreckage. In total, this is a 4.5-mile (7.25 km) walk.

Good to know: The walk to the plane is kind of long and very boring. It’s flat, so you won’t have to worry about elevation gain, but it’s important to pack plenty of layers and rain gear.

20. Explore the magical basalt columns of Studlagil Canyon

Located in eastern Iceland, Studlagil Canyon is quite a gem. With towering black basalt columns set against (sometimes) turquoise waters, this otherworldly place is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Getting here can be a bit confusing, so we created a guide to Studlagil Canyon complete with a free map, precise directions and insider tips we wished we would have known before our visit.

21. Photograph Icelandic churches

As you drive around Iceland, you’ll see quaint churches dotted all throughout the countryside and in each town, no matter how small. Some of these churches have a rich history which is typically documented on a sign outside the building. 

If you see one that strikes your fancy, pull over, get out of your car and explore a bit. Oh, and don’t forget your camera because Icelandic churches are next-level photogenic.

22. Taste rye bread that was baked underground

Experience for yourself the power of harnessing geothermal energy by sampling bread that was baked underground. This method of cooking was once used out of necessity, but today it is more or less as a way to taste history.

While on the Ring Road, you can stop at Laugarvatn Fontana, where they lead daily Rye Bread Tasting Tours. The tour lasts about 30 minutes and walks you through the baking process. As a group, you’ll uncover a pot that has been underground for 24 hours, and you’ll place a new one near a thermal spring for another tour group to collect the following day.

It is quite interesting to learn about the process, but the best part is trying the finished product. The rye bread is dense and sweet, almost like cake. And topped with a generous amount of smjor (Icelandic butter) and smoked trout, it is absolutely addicting, and definitely a food you should try in Iceland .  The details: This tour runs daily at 11:45 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. and costs 1700 ISK per person ($13).

23.  Meet Icelandic horses

You won’t drive very far before seeing your first Icelandic horse. These beauties are smaller than the horses you may be used to, and they have short legs and a thick coat of fur. 

Oftentimes, these horses will gather at a fence alongside the road, as if begging for a photo. If you can safely pull over, this is usually considered just fine. 

However, there are a few things you should not do:

• Don’t park improperly. Make sure that if you pull over, other cars have enough space to pass. Better yet, search for a designated pull-out as stopping on the side of the road is strongly discouraged. 
• Don’t ever cross over the fence , as this would be trespassing on private property.
• Don’t feed the horses, as this can cause them to have excess food. Just imagine if you were a farmer and 10 visitors a day fed your horses. This means you don’t have any control over what’s being fed to them and they may be developing bad habits. 

If you want a more intimate experience with Icelandic horses, you may want to look into a horseback riding tour. They run all over the country – from remote farms to those just outside of Reykjavík that can pick you up from your hotel.

24. Try glacier hiking

Hiking on a glacier is one of the most unique and adventurous experiences you can have in Iceland. Being that the glaciers are actively melting, this may not be something visitors can do in years to come, so this truly may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The best place for glacier hiking in Iceland will be at Vatnajökull National Park, which is a vast expanse encompassing the majority of Iceland’s glaciers.  

Glacier hiking is an activity you must do with a guide, and there are quite a few tour companies to choose from. 

A guided tour includes all the equipment you’ll need, like a harness, an ice axe, crampons and a helmet, as well as a guide who is experienced with the area and glacier safety.

Insider Tip: After doing a bit of research, we read many recommendations that suggested choosing a 5-hour glacier tour over a 3-hour tour, as you get to see much more of the glacier itself. Being that it does take a bit of time to actually reach the glacier, we’d agree with these recommendations.

During the tour, you’ll traverse a pretty large section of a glacier and see some pretty incredible sights. You may even be lucky enough to be (safely) lowered into a small ice cave, which feels like an entirely different world.

Are you visiting Iceland in the winter? You may want to also look into visiting an ice cave with a tour guide. This looks like a pretty incredible experience, but with the exception of a couple, most ice caves can only be visited during the late fall and winter months.

25. Learn about volcanoes

Being that Iceland is a volcanic island, it makes sense that it is a great place to learn about, well, volcanoes. 

Now how you choose to learn about them is up to you, but we have a few fun suggestions:

Go to the Lava Show in Vík

How would you like to see real lava up close? Well, this is your chance!

The Lava Show , located in the small town of Vík, boasts that it is the “only place in the world where you can safely experience hot molten lava in close proximity”. And whew, we can attest that it is quite a unique experience. During this 1-hour long show, you’ll have front row seats as you watch molten lava (1,100°C / 2,000°F) flowing right in front of you. 

The creator of this experience, Júlíus, is extremely passionate about all things volcanoes and lava, and makes it an entertaining and educational show for both adults and children.

Do the “Inside the Volcano” experience

Have you ever thought about going inside a volcano?! Yep, you read that right – inside! On this tour, guests board a cable lift and descend 120 meters (400 feet) to the bottom of the crater for an experience you can’t get anywhere else. At more than $330 per person, there’s no doubt this is a huge splurge, but the reviews seem to speak for themselves. While we haven’t personally done this tour, it does sound like a pretty cool way to learn about volcanoes.

Hike, hike, hike!

If you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that Iceland has some incredible hiking opportunities. And many of the hikes in Iceland are through volcanic landscapes including lava fields. 

In our opinion, there’s no better way to learn about something than by getting up close and personal with it. Plus, it won’t cost you a thing, which is a bonus if you’re traveling Iceland on a budget .

26. Scope out traditional Turf Houses

Turf houses are quite the sight to see, but if you don’t know where they are on the map, you may just miss them. These historic relics give us an idea of how people once lived in Iceland, though their purpose today is only the preservation of the past.

Why did people build turf houses? The answer is quite simple. While much of Iceland was once forested, people cut down trees for construction, almost completely eliminating this resource from the small island nation. Since lumber was hard to find, Icelanders resorted to a different method of building. 

Turf houses were already popular in neighboring Scandinavian countries and being that the sod provided extra insulation, it was an easy choice. Turf houses were known for keeping the temperature stable throughout the year, staying cool in the summertime and keeping residents warm through the long winter months.

Where can you find turf houses? There aren’t that many remaining, but here are a handful to check out:

• Skógar Museum
• Church in Víðimýri
• Glaumbær Farm & Museum
• Laufás Museum

Note: Some of these are museums that allow visitors to enter the houses in exchange for admission. If you’d simply like to see a turf house from the outside, that’s okay too.

27. Walk the rim of colorful Kerið Crater

Perhaps the most colorful stop along Iceland’s Golden Circle is the aquamarine lake that sits inside Kerið Crater. The crater itself is a volcanic caldera, flanked by red volcanic rock and bursts of lime green moss in a shocking display of Mother Nature’s artistic side.

Good to know: Kerið Crater is pronounced “kair-ith”, as the “ð” symbol in Icelandic has a “th” sound.

After purchasing a ticket for 400 ISK ($3) at the trail entrance , you can walk the gravel trail that encircles the rim of Kerið Crater. 

This loop trail is just under a mile long and is relatively flat and easy and shouldn’t take much more than a half hour in total (including photo stops). You can also descend on a staircase down towards the water for a different perspective.

Find the stats and trail notes here.

How many days do you need in Iceland?

In order to get a good taste of all that Iceland has to offer, we’d suggest spending a minimum of one week in Iceland. If you happen to have more time than that, great! 

There is so much to see and do in this country you could spend months here and not get bored.  

We think 7-9 days is the perfect amount of time to soak up plenty of the highlights and get to know the country a bit better. 

Perfect Iceland itinerary

Raise your hand if you don’t want to spend hours of time researching and you just want all the info right at your fingertips!

If your hand is up, keep reading…

If you  like  the research, all the power to you! Feel free to use our itinerary outlines as a starting point as well as our Iceland guides for more ideas (we’ve got a bunch of them!):

• Ring Road Iceland: Can’t-Miss Stops!
• Actually Cool Things to Do in Reykjavik
• Best Iceland Waterfalls + Exact Locations
• Where to Get the Best Pictures in Iceland (+ photography tips!)
• Beautiful Iceland Hikes
• Dreamy Iceland Honeymoon Experiences
• …the list goes on! (See ALL of our Iceland content here )

But if you want to save some hours of your life, we’ve already put in more than enough for you and us combined.  Trust us.

And we’re happy to share everything we learned  — from digging through reviews, Youtube and all sorts of Internet rabbit holes, as well as actually traveling  in  Iceland on 3 separate occasions.

We’ve put together the perfect Iceland itinerary for your first visit. This itinerary includes day-by-day instructions, photos and tips that will help you plan your road trip through southern Iceland and the iconic Golden Circle.

In this 7-9 day itinerary, you’ll find:

• Can’t miss sights and experiences 
• suggestions for what to order
• the best campsites to stay on the route
• unique stays along the way
• Insider Tips
• Suggestions for extending this trip

We’ve spent hours of research putting this all together, just for you!

In full transparency, this is a  paid itinerary  since it has taken an incredible amount of time for us to create. 

However, we keep all of our paid itineraries affordable –  just  $17 for an entire 7-9 day itinerary . We think this is an incredible value considering almost all your planning will be done for you!

Best time to visit Iceland

In general you’ll have the best weather and opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities during the summer months, from June – August . 

If viewing the Northern Lights is what you seek, visiting during the shoulder seasons of September – October and February – March are when we’d recommend.

While you’ll have chances of cold weather year round (yes, even in the summertime!), you’ll most likely want to avoid traveling to Iceland in winter if you don’t do well in frigid temperatures.

For an in-depth guide on the regional seasons, weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide to the best time to visit Iceland . 

How to get around Iceland

There  aren’t many options for public transportation in Iceland, outside of the capital city of Reykjavik. For this reason, we’d highly recommend renting your own vehicle to explore more of the country at your own pace. 

Having a rental car in Iceland will give you the freedom you need to explore the country fully on an epic road trip . Plus, it may be cheaper than you think, especially if you decide to tent camp along the way instead of paying for expensive accommodations. 

We’ve rented cars in Iceland on two separate occasions and found it to be incredibly convenient! 

We have an entire guide to renting a car in Iceland that will walk you through the ins and outs, including where we found the best rental deals and tips for driving (hint: you won’t want to skip this section!). 

By campervan

Exploring Iceland in a campervan was a dream trip of ours for many years. When we finally made it happen, I can honestly say it lived up to our expectations in every possible way.

The great thing about renting a campervan in Iceland is that you’ll save tons of money on accommodation costs. 

Check out our Iceland campervan rental guide where we break down all of the FAQs about traveling Iceland in a campervan, plus tell you about the best Iceland campervan rental company which we just so happen to have an exclusive discount code for .

Tips for visiting Iceland

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, here are the top tips to make the most of your visit:

• Plan your itinerary in advance. Iceland offers a wide range of breathtaking natural wonders and attractions, so it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance to maximize your time. Identify the places you want to visit, prioritize them based on your interests, and map out a realistic route. 
• Pack for diverse weather conditions. Iceland’s weather can change on a dime and it’s not uncommon to experience 4 seasons in just one day. Be prepared for a mix of sunshine, rain, wind, and potentially even snow, depending on the season.
• Download these essential apps before you go. We tested out all the recommended Iceland travel apps on our latest trip and there are a few we could not live without!
• Rent a car or campervan to explore. Renting your own vehicle is highly recommended in Iceland, as it allows you to explore the country at your own pace and venture off the beaten path. 
• Respect the environment and practice Leave No Trace .  Iceland’s natural beauty is fragile, and it’s essential to be a responsible traveler . Stay on designated paths and trails to minimize damage to the delicate ecosystems. Respect any signs or guidelines for conservation areas and wildlife protection. 
• Book an airport shuttle. If you need to get to Reykjavík from the airport, or vice versa, skip the taxis and instead book a shuttle bus. Unless you have a large group of people traveling together, this will save you money! Flybus is the most popular airport shuttle service that runs from Keflavik airport to Reykjavík and back.  

What to pack for traveling to Iceland

One of the most frequently asked questions we get from people planning a trip to Iceland seems to be what to pack for Iceland and what to wear on your trip. 

Here are some specific items we’d recommend packing for Iceland:

• bug repellant (solids are the way to go)
• insulated water bottle and thermos
• reusable straw & reusable bag ( say no to single-use plastic! )
• gloves, winter hat, scarves
• thermal long underwear (for highland activities and travels)
• sun protection
• portable charger
• travel umbrella
• backpack with rain cover
• waterproof jacket (the outer layer should be water and windproof)
• hiking pants or rain pants
• hiking boots (or winter boots depending on the time of year you travel)

Get our complete Iceland packing list , packed with insider tips and valuable information in this downloadable PDF. All you have to do is click below to enter your email and we’ll send it straight to your inbox, completely FREE!

Are you planning a trip to Iceland?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Iceland and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our  Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Perfect Iceland Itinerary
• Fimmvörðuháls Hike: Guide to Iceland’s Best Day Hike
• Iceland Campervan Rental Guide (+ Exclusive Discount)

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Iceland travel blog — The fullest Iceland travel guide blog for the first-timers

Iceland is a beautiful island nation located between the Greenland sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, the Northwest of the UK. Iceland attracts millions of tourists each year by the extremely majestic, surreal and beautiful natural scenery from the vast serenity grasslands in the countryside, the high mountains, the great glaciers or the spectacular waterfalls … The central of the island is the cold plateau. More than three hundred thousand of Iceland’s inhabitants live mainly on the coast, of which nearly half live in Reykjavík. The capital over a thousand years old with a name that means Smoky Bay that has a little dreamy, a little ancient and most houses have a simple, small, beautiful architectural style. Icelanders do not need massive buildings because of the wonderful nature, which is enough to overwhelm people, is one of the most attractive destinations in Europe.

The ultimate Iceland hiking guide: Everything you need to know. Best hiking routes & useful tips

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So, if you are planning to explore this land then you cannot ignore this article. And if you are looking for a trip to Iceland on a budget? Let’s check it out our Iceland travel blog (Iceland blog) with the fullest Iceland travel guide blog for a budget trip to Iceland for the first time from best time to visit, how to get to Iceland, where to stay to best places to visit, top things to do in Iceland, suggested Iceland itinerary for 4 days and 17 days, etc with Living Nomads below.

Iceland travel guide: When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Iceland has two main seasons: cold and very cold. In summer, the temperature will fluctuate in the range of 7-16 degrees Celsius. The hottest days in the hottest month in Iceland are only reach 25 degrees Celsius. The winter temperature can drop to -10 degrees Celsius, so no matter what season you go, don’t forget the warm clothes.

So, when is the best time to visit Iceland? The answer to this question depends on what you want to see here. Active volcanoes and cold winter turn Iceland into a paradise for those who love adventure to explore in both winter and summer.

If you go to Iceland for the purpose of climbing, watching whales, puffins, exploring strange beautiful volcanoes, some places like paradise, some places like hell, in the center of the island, you must come in the summer, from June to September. F routes (lanes dedicated for 4×4 cars) are only open at this time. We think June and September are the best time, when the number of tourists is not too crowded and it is not very cold, it is still possible to camp to reduce costs. At the end of September, if you’re lucky, you can see the aurora (northern lights) too.

July and August are considered to have the best weather of the year, but there are disadvantages of overcrowding of tourists, which partly reduces the charm of this land. Of course the concept of “beautiful weather” is also very relative. We went 17 days in July, only have 3 sunny days and temperature also only 5 to 15 degrees Celsius during the day.

If you want to go to see the aurora, explore the ice caves, you should come in winter, from October to March. In particular, perhaps October is the best time to see aurora.

Iceland travel blog: How to get to Iceland?

The best and most convenient way to get to Iceland is by plane. If you fly to Iceland from European countries or UK, you can refer to WOW Air or Icelandair airlines. Wow Air is a low cost airline of Iceland, so it will usually have more preferential airfares, however, hand luggage in the fare only includes a backpack / handbag (42x32x25cm) without the usual small suitcase as other airlines, so if you need to bring lots of luggage, you should buy additional hand luggage package (~ EUR 30 / one trip).

We fly from Toulouse to Reykjavik (transit in Munich). Flight tickets booked 6 months in advance: €320 / round trip. Tickets will be cheaper if you fly from major European cities with non-stop flights, served by low-cost airlines, such as WOW Air, Transavia … The airfares of Paris–Reykjavik route are sometimes just under €100 / round trip.

Tips: Iceland Air has «Stopover» tickets between Europe, Iceland and North America. You can buy tickets from Europe to the US or Canada, and stop in Iceland for up to 7 days at very reasonable prices and suitable for your Iceland itinerary in 7 days.

You can getting to Iceland by boat. Let’s drive to Hirtshals – Denmark. From then there is a ship to Seyðisfjörður, a lovely small city located in Northeast Iceland (transit in the Faroe Island – Denmark). The tickets prices range from budget with € 300 / 1 person / round trip (bring no car and sleep in a room with 4 single beds), to expensive with € 1200 / 1 person / round trip (include a big car, sleep in a VIP double bedroom). The journey in the sea is 50 to 60 hours long, sounds crazy but if you want to stay in Iceland for a long time and travel by private car, this is the most economical way.

Refer to website: https://www.smyrilline.com/

Getting from the airport to Reykjavik

There are several bus firms running day and night from Keflavik International Airport (KEF) to central Reykjavik, about 45 minutes, 1 hour after each flight arrives. The bus will brings each group of visitors to hotels and campsites in the city. If you stay at Airbnb , Google to find the name of a hotel near your accommodation and request the bus take to that hotel door.

The bus tickets are different a little bit between firms, around 3000 ISK / one trip (~ €23), 6000 ISK / round trip. You can buy the bus tickets in advance on its website or at the counter at the airport with the same price. Note that if you buy on the web, you still have to go to the counter to appear before get up the bus because they need give your stop point name to the driver. If you buy tickets at the counter, you can pay the ticket in € with a reasonable exchange rate, convenient for those who come from Europe.

For example, two bus companies:

• Grayline : http://grayline.is
• Flybus : https://www.re.is/flybus/

Like at other airports, you can also take a taxi but the price is not cheap, from €125 / 1 taxi or more.

Iceland travel blog: Getting around Iceland

The public transport system in Iceland is extremely poor while the main attractions are far from the city, so you have to know that there are only 2 main vehicles that are self-driving car or tour.

The roads in Iceland seem to be born for road trips. Highway No. 1, as its name Ring Road, runs around the island, more than 1330 km long, passing through most “big” cities and many popular tourist spots.

Self-driving car

Self-driving car will be more suitable for those who travel in a group of 3-5 people because you will be more proactive and cost-effective. Cars are the means of transportation to help you be most proactive about your time in Iceland. You do not need to hire a 4×4 car if you are planning to visit only some spots along Ring Road. The rental price for a car 4×4 is about more 1.5 times or double the price of renting a normal tourist car.

3 things to keep in mind when driving in Iceland that the car owner told us are:

• Be careful when crossing the river. The road to the center of Iceland’s highland is quite difficult to travel, with many sections having to drive across the river. However, if your vehicle is stuck or damaged on the river, you must call the garage, the cost will not be covered by insurance. This amount can be up to nearly the value of the vehicle, depending on the location and the degree of failure.
• Keep the door in the wind. Rain and wind are two of Iceland’s free specialties that anyone who has experienced when came Iceland. Indeed, the coastal wind is very strong, can blow the door. And of course, insurance does not cover this.
• Drive the car into Landmannalaugar. The Landmannalaugar is a “must–go” place for anyone who likes to trekking with the famous Landmannalaugar – Thorsmork route for 4 days. However, if you don’t have healthy enough or time, you can also go a few short (10–20 km) around camping Landmannalaugar – one of Iceland’s most beautiful and cold, uncomfortable campsites. There are 3 access roads to Landmannalaugar: 2 from the west – F208 from Gjains and F225, and 1 from the east – F208 from Vik. The car owner advised us to go F208 from Gjains (reach from the west) because there is no need to cross the river, while the F225 road must cross the river 3 times and 6 times with the road F208. When you go out of Landmannalaugar, you also should follow the same road.

This is also a good way to explore Iceland. From June to September every year, bus routes take visitors between cities, stopping for about 30 minutes each time passing through famous tourist spots. Of course, you can also combine tourist car hire (not 4×4 type) and buy a bus ticket when you need to go to highland.

You can also explore Iceland by bike. The mountainous terrain and rainy weather make Iceland an ideal place to challenge yourself.

If you have little time or don’t know how to drive and go in winter without bus, Iceland is still at your fingertips with countless tours for half a day or one to two days for about €100 / 1 day from big cities. Iceland’s tours are very good and many companies have this service so you don’t need to book in advance, just go to the visitor information counter to know all the information. We also try a glacier walk tour of Glacier Guides in Skaftafell (Website: https://www.glacierguides.is/ ). They are very young, friendly and enthusiastic.

You can look up tours on travel review sites. We usually book tour at Getyourguide.com because the tours booked here are usually the best prices, and can be canceled free within 24 hours and guarantee credibility.

If you have a lot of time and love to adventure, you can also go around Iceland by catching a car on the road for free. However, the hitchhike also comes with many disadvantages and risks because in addition to a section of Ring Road in the south and a few popular tourist spots around Myvatn Lake in the north, the remain regions of Iceland are deserted.

Tips: Map or GPS. We hardly use GPS in Iceland because the several times we tried to enter the location name, but the GPS that attach with the car was not found them. Luckily, we didn’t get lost for 14 days on the way. Most of the time we only use Google maps and paper maps of National Geographic, very detailed, with the number of kilometers between each turn, all famous tourist spots, camping areas, … Tough and impermeable paper.

Iceland trip blog: Where to stay in Iceland?

As well as other tourist destinations, Iceland is also full of options for accommodation from hotels, guesthouses, dormitories to homestays. But in recent years, Iceland tourism is growing too fast while the number of guesthouses and hotels is not enough to meet the accommodation needs, so the run out of accommodation is very frequent, especially in the peak season. Indeed Iceland is the place with the most expensive hotel prices in the places I’ve ever visited. In the peak season, the lowest room price starts from around €130 / 1 night / 1 double room. In addition to the hotel, you can considering the following options:

Price is about € 10 (ISK 130-140) / 1 person / 1 night.

• Advantages: Low cost, very mobile because there is no need to book in advance, you can chat with a lot of backpackers from everywhere, get a lot of good experience. Iceland has many camping zones, only 30 to 50 km apart.
• Disadvantages: Must carry a lot of bulky camping gear. Hard, wet, cold when the weather is not favorable. Not all camping areas has a kitchen or a kitchen that is not large enough, so sometimes you have to cook outside in the cold wind.

Tips: Many camping sites only have cold water (very cold). Most places with hot water must pay around ISK 100 / 1 minute of bathing. Queuing for the turn is also quite long. However, you can take a bath in the pool, hot water is comfortable. Every city has a hot mineral water pool, closed at about 21pm.

About €30 / 1 bed. Most cities in Iceland are small, without a hostel, but camping sites also offers similar services.

• Advantages: Cheap price. Not sleeping in the cold rain like sleeping tent.
• Disadvantages: Also are camping visitors, so the facilities for hot water, kitchen … are similar to those in tents. You have to reserve for a long time (maybe many months).

Guesthouse and Airbnb

About 70 – €100 / 1 room for 2 people.

• Advantages: Can bathe, wash clothes, cook comfortably in the house, sleep in a warm and soft bed.
• Disadvantages: There are very few guesthouse and Airbnb is located outside the big cities. Most have to book in advance, need to schedule carefully.

Continued reading…

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Heading to Iceland for the First Time? Here’s a Five Day Itinerary

by Andy | May 4, 2021 | Iceland , Travel | 2 comments

Well-known and well-traveled for its wide variety of landscapes and waterfalls, Iceland is truly a natural wonderland.  

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Iceland three separate times, and I thought I’d do you a favor and put together a sample itinerary to give you some ideas for your trip!  I’m leaving out soooooo much in this itinerary but I think it’s a good introduction to this incredible country.

Day One: Drive as far east as you can

So here’s the basic deal about Iceland: most trips (with the exception of the Golden Circle, which is, you guessed it, a circle) are out-and-backs.  The main highway, Highway 1, is called the Ring Road because it goes around the entire island, but it takes longer than 4-5 days to drive.  You’ll be landing in Keflavik, on the Reykjanes peninsula in the southwest part of the country.  Pick up your rental car there and head towards Reykjavik.

The famous Blue Lagoon is between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik if you fancy a visit.  I personally have never been but I know many who have and they enjoyed it.

The plan for Day One…it’s a drive to the southeast part of Iceland.  It will be a long drive but you will see some incredible scenery along the way.

Let’s take a look at a Google Map.

Ok ok ok I know it says it’s a six-hour drive.  That’s a long drive if you’re jet-lagged.  But don’t worry, we’re going to stop along the way.

You’ll drive into Reykjavik on your way to the Ring Road.  They drive on the right side of the road and traffic laws are similar to the United States (there’s no concept of Right on Red)  It’s an easy drive, but get ready for the speed limit.  It’s 90km/h, roughly 55mph.  Do not speed.  There are cameras.  The fines are spensive.  

There are plenty of quick stops in Reykjavik you can make.  There’s the Hallgrimskirkja, an amazing Lutheran church built to resemble the basalt columns famous around many of Iceland’s waterfalls.

There are also a few Costco stores if you’re a member and would like to get some snackies for your trip, as food prices in Iceland can be very high.

Don’t tarry long in Reykjavik, we need to hit the road.  Head over to Highway 1 and point east, towards the town of Vik.

(note: I won’t judge you if the idea of a six-hour drive sounds brutal after a too-short flight across the Atlantic, feel free to grab a hotel in Reykjavik and enjoy exploring the city!)

As you’re driving, you’ll encounter incredible landscapes and some wonderful photo spots.  Stop and take some pictures!  After about an hour and a half you’ll see an enormous waterfall just off the highway, the legendary Seljalandsfoss.  Keep going, we’ll stop by Seljalandsfoss on our way back!  30 minutes later, you’ll see a mammoth waterfall back a ways from the highway.  This would be the mighty Skogafoss.  Yep, keep going, we’ll come back.

A quick vocabulary lesson: “foss” loosely means “waterfall” in Icelandic.  So the waterfall called Skogafoss is the waterfall from the Skogar River that runs through the town of Skogar.  Yep, you guessed it, Seljalandsfoss is the waterfall near the community of Seljaland

Back to the road trip.  Stop when you need to stop, get you some caffeine (for some reason I only drink Red Bulls in Iceland during road trips).  You may also see a random parking lot on your right filled with cars and people walking out towards the coast.  But we’ll get to that later.  We’re finally at our first rest stop: the lovely town of Vik.

Vik, Iceland

Vik is a great place to stop for lunch on your way east.  The best place to stop for lunch?  The Smidjan Brugghus (operating with limited hours right now from Thursday-Sunday but hopefully will open up more broadly soon).  It’s a great little microbrewery that cooks a wonderful burger and serves a wonderful beer.  

After lunch, you’ll want to stretch your legs and see some of the beauty that Iceland has to offer.  Head up the hill towards this little church, called Reyniskirkja.  There’s a parking lot at the church, you don’t need to walk.

In the summer you will see fields of lupines around Reyniskirkja, but even in the late fall like the above picture it’s just a beautiful scene.

Oh, and the view from the church isn’t bad either.

There’s more to do around Vik, but let’s keep going east instead.  After another hour or so you’ll start seeing some mountains.  “Big deal Andy, we’ve already seen a ton of mountains,” you’ll say, alarming everyone else in your car while they wonder who Andy is and what was in that Red Bull can you were drinking.  You have seen mountains, but these mountains have  glaciers on them .

This means you’re getting close.  Your first official destination of The Official Andy’s Travel Blog Intro to Iceland Itinerary.

Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon

The Vatnajökull glacier is Europe’s largest glacier.  Glaciers are in motion, carving out their path against the mountain as they slowly creep along.  Where does all that ice end up?  Well, a lot of it ends up in the Jokulsarlon lagoon.  The ice breaks off into icebergs that float through the lagoon.  The lagoon itself is the deepest body of water in Iceland and you’ll typically see a lot of seals swimming around the lagoon looking for food, dodging icebergs on their quest.

(I just realized these two pictures are of the same iceberg, sorryyyyyyyy)

There are all sort of Zodiac tours through the lagoon that you can book when you’re there.  Covid restrictions have shrunk the size of the tours a bit but they’re still running, so that’s good.  Enjoy the incredible scenery of icebergs, wildlife, and thousand-year-old icebergs floating idly by.  

Once you’re done naturing, get in your car and drive across the highway to the coast, you’ll see cars parked in the makeshift parking lot.  Get out of your car and grab your camera because you’ve arrived at Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach

What happens to the icebergs in the Jokulsarlon lagoon?  Over time they gradually make their way through the lagoon and out to the ocean.  The ocean then rudely slams them back onto the shore of the beach.  So if you’ve ever wanted to see iceberg fragments, some the size of hatchbacks, on a beach, this is the spot.

If I know my timing right, you should end up at Jokulsarlon and the Diamond Beach fairly close to sunset (depending on the time of year), so there are so many amazing pictures to take here.

Where to stay for Day One

Jokulsarlon isn’t incredibly close to any large towns.  There’s a town about an hour east called Höfn and some smaller villages before then.  You’re going to drive past the lagoon a bit but I think it’s worth it.  The place I recommend is actually a bit isolated from Höfn, it’s called the Viking Cafe.  It’s…well, a cafe, but they’ve built an addition onto the side of it.  The accommodations are humble, but the location is perfect, because the cafe sits next to a movie set built for a movie about Vikings which was never filmed, and that’s all well and good, but the Viking Cafe also sits next to the incredible Vestrahorn Mountain.

If you’re in the area during aurora season (October-March), there’s a great chance you can find the aurora with the mountains below!

Whether you sleep in Höfn or the Viking Cafe, get some rest, and it’s ok if you’re exhausted.  This was a long day.

Day Two: Let’s do some hiking

If you’re coming from the USA, you’ll probably be up early from jetlag.  If you are and fancy a great place for sunrise, head out to Vestrahorn!  This is much easier if you’re staying at the Viking Cafe, since the road out to Vestrahorn is on private property (it’s about $9 to enter).  Photographically the mountains look relatively isolated against the foreground of a black sand beach, just a beautiful sight to see early in the morning.  You’ll see a photographer here and there taking some pictures but there’s a lot of great views to take in, especially in colder weather when the water freezes on the coastline.

Day Two can really begin wherever you’d like it.  If you’re at Vestrahorn, go get you some Vestrahorn.  If you stayed in Höfn, grab some breakfast and some coffee and put on your favorite hiking garments.

If you haven’t figured it out by now, we’re on an out-and-back trip from Reykjavik.  I know it seems weird that we’re already “heading back” at the beginning of the second day but I promise there is so much to see along the southern coast that it’ll be fine.

Get back to Highway 1 and head west.

Optional: Revisit Jokulsarlon

Depending on when you go there (and how Covid-y things are), morning can be the best time to visit Jokulsarlon and the Diamond Beach again, away from the crowds.  Spend as long as you’d like here (if you’re a photographer and want to get some Streaky Water Iceberg Shots on the beach, remember your ND filters).  When you’re done, head west to Skaftafell National Park and get ready for four beautiful waterfalls.

Optional: Hike to Mulagljufur

This is a wonderful hike that feels a bit more rustic than other well-marked tracks along the south coast.  I posted a blog post about how to find the trail, which isn’t far from Jokulsarlon.

My guide to Mulgljufur is here .

Svartifoss is a beautiful and “skinny” waterfall that has an enormous chamber of basalt columns around it.  I’m continually fascinated that nature would align basalt into columns like this and, maybe apart from Aldeyjarfoss in the north, there’s no better place to see it than Svartifoss.

An Editor’s Note about calling this a “Hike”: I’m basing the classification of the hike up to Svartifoss as a “hike” because I live a relatively sedentary life and have a desk job.  Aside from my Pelaton, I don’t really get into cardio on a regular basis.  This is not a difficult hike.  

When you enter Skaftafell, park in one of the clearly marked lots and go pay for parking at the little stanchion.  Then head towards the very clearly marked trail.  The trail goes uphill pretty quickly, so be ready for that (my calves felt it for a few days).  All in all, though, it’s 1.5 kilometers and should take you 45 minutes or so.  It’s not hard.  Along the way, you’ll see three other waterfalls, but there will be no question when you’ve made it to Svartifoss.  Enjoy the power of the waterfall as it strikes the rocks below, slowly carving out a canyon over the next ten thousand or so years.  Odds are there will be plenty of other people waiting to see it, so make sure you have a plan for the pictures you’d like to take when it’s your turn and play nice with everyone.

If you’re a photographer, the rock I took this from will be pretty obvious.  It will help if you have waterproof shoes for this one but they’re not absolutely necessary.  Just be really careful on the slippery rocks, I nearly fell into the river with my $10,000 Fuji GFX100 in my hand.

When you’re done with Svartifoss, head back down to your vehicle.  There are plenty of other things to see and do in Skaftafell, so free-style and stay longer if you wish!  

Fjaðrárgljúfur

This canyon is as beautiful as the name is hard to pronounce.  It’s just off Highway 1, not far from our last stop.

This is one of the most prominent This Looks Like Another Planet locations we’ll see on our trip.

You can park very close to the canyon and the paths alongside the canyon are easy to follow (you can no longer go into the canyon, unfortunately).  The footpath will take you all the way up the sides of the canyon to the countryside beyond.  It’s worth a stop to see just how crazy the landscape becomes.

By this point you’re probably a bit hungry.  Let’s head back west to a now familiar place: Vik.

Up Next: Reynisfjara

There are two wonderful scenic places to see in and around Vik.  We’ve been to the church, the microbrewery, now it’s time for The Nature.  Two options to choose from (don’t worry, we’ll go to the other one tomorrow): black sand epic beach with basalt columns or a beautiful cliff overlooking the ocean.

Reynisfjara

Reynisfjara is a beautiful black sand beach that runs along the coast.  It’s super close to Vik and has convenient parking right next to it.

There are other black sand beaches by Vik but Reynisfjara is by far the most well-known.  When you get to the parking lot, if you head to the left you’ll see some incredible basalt columns and a really cool cave.  If you like, you can pose in front of some of the columns and try to look majestic.

If you go to the right from the parking lot and walk for a ways you’ll end up with a great view of Dyrhólaey, the arch in the cliff.  There are some really cool lava stacks close to the arch called Reynisdrangar.  I didn’t walk all the way over to the cliff when I visited last time but I’d think it’s absolutely worth the (roughly 2-mile) walk.

Where to stay for Day Two: Vik, Iceland

Grab yourself a bit to eat somewhere in Vik (maybe a return to the Smidgen Brugghus even) and relax for a minute!  I’m saying you can get something to eat in Vik, but realistically many of you will have eaten lunch somewhere else and this will be around the end of your Day Two.  Vik is a decently-sized town, so grab a bed somewhere in Vik or nearby.  You’ve already seen way more than most people see in their entire trip and you’ve only been in Iceland for two days!

Realistic Note: You don’t have to move this fast Ok, so this itinerary is quite aggressive.  There is lots to see in this great country, and you don’t need to see everything on your first trip.  If you feel like doing everything I’ve said so far, go for it!  If you don’t feel like doing everything, rest!

Day Three: More Waterfalls

Enjoy a well-deserved good night of rest in or around Vik.  Tomorrow you don’t need to get up quite as early if you don’t want to.  Enjoy some coffee, yawn a bit.  Our first destination isn’t far at all.  In fact, it’s on top of the arch that you saw last evening.

Dyrhólaey

Going atop the cliff is very easy, but, a small warning, during some summer months, you may have to park away from the cliffside a bit to protect the mating ground of birds who nest in the cliffs.  You’re able to walk up to the cliffs but  please respect the nesting grounds and keep your distance from the wildlife.

Ok now that I’ve disclaimer’d at everyone: OH MY GOSH THERE ARE PUFFINS ON TOP OF DYRHOLAEY.  I’ve never seen them in person but they’re usually there from April-August/September.  They’re simply the most amazing and cute birds ever.  I cannot wait to see them for myself someday.

From Dyrhólaey you can see down either coast for miles, or you can turn north and see Mýrdalsjökull glacier.  There’s also a beautiful (and still active) lighthouse on top as well.  Enjoy the views for a while and then get ready to see a plane!

The DC-3 Plane Wreck

A short drive away from Dyrhólaey you’ll see a parking lot to your left.  Park there and walk about 2 miles south (the path is easy but not incredibly well-marked, make sure you don’t try to go in bad weather) and you’ll see the wreckage of a crashed airplane.  In 1973 a US Navy DC-3 was flying around South Iceland and ran out of fuel.  It crash-landed on the beach and, thankfully, everyone survived.  The plane is still there today.  It’s free to visit and you can actually go into the plane and explore through it.  It’s well worth a visit!

Now, finally, get ready for two of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls!

The incredible Skogafoss waterfall is absurdly close to the DC-3 parking lot.  Like 10 minutes away.

You can see the waterfall from the road, it’s that massive.  Towering 200 feet (60 meters) above the landscape, it’s incredibly powerful and you can walk right up to it!

As you get close to the falls you’ll get wet so do be careful if you’re bringing nice camera equipment!

Skogafoss will probably be crowded, as it’s super popular, and for good reason!  You can climb the steps next to it to get a great view of the water flowing over the falls.

(Shhh…there’s a waterfall called Kvernufoss really close to Skogafoss, go there too)

From the Skogafoss parking lot, head over to the Skogar Museum (detailing the history of the small town of Skogar).  Park behind it.  Face the fence in front of you and look to the left.  You’ll see a tiny little ladder going over the fence.  Climb over that ladder and walk along the path that runs alongside the hillside.  When you can turn left, turn left.  You’ll see Kvernufoss in the distance.

I love Kvernufoss.  It’s right next to Skogafoss but is not nearly as crowded as its more popular neighbor.  Skogafoss was massively full last time I visited and there were only a handful of people at Kvernufoss.  You can even walk behind the falls like Seljalandsfoss!

I cannot recommend you visit Kvernufoss strongly enough!

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland.  It’s incredible, powerful, and boy is it popular.  You can easily see the falls from Highway 1 and there are two big parking lots around the falls.  You do need to pay for parking, as a warning.  Either way it’s a short drive over from Skogafoss.

There are going to be  a lot of people at Seljalandsfoss.  It’s so nice though, it’s definitely worth a stop.  You can walk up to the falls and walk right behind them as well for some really cool views of the countryside.  It gets very wet behind the falls, so again be careful with nicer camera gear.

(Shhh…there’s a waterfall called Gljúfrabúi really close to Seljalandsfoss, go there too)

Just like Kvernufoss and Skogafoss, there’s another waterfall by Seljalandsfoss.  It’s relatively hidden but super close by.  Odds are it will be far less crowded as well.

You don’t even need to park anywhere else.  In the picture above, if you walk counter-clockwise around the back of the falls, and go to the right, walk along the path where the hillside meets the plains.  You’re looking for a giant crack in the hill.

You’ll have to walk through some water for this one, so have some waterproof shoes or expect your shoes to get wet.  Wait your turn (it’s kind of a one-way entry) and walk 10-20 feet and you’ll see it: Gljúfrabúi, the hidden waterfall.

It’s absolutely beautiful.  And you can climb up on that rock to the right and get some cool pictures taken.  There won’t be as many people here as there are at Seljalandsfoss but it might feel a little more crowded, as a warning, just because the waterfall chamber isn’t quite as large.

Where to stay for Day Three

When you’ve had your fill of Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi, guess where you’re heading next?  Back to Reykjavik!

I recommend going back into Iceland’s capital and making it your home base for the next two nights.  I know it isn’t the most local place ever, but I’ve stayed at the Hilton Nordica in the middle of town and have enjoyed it every time, even though it’s more like a typical big hotel here in the states.

While in Reykjavik, like I mentioned at the beginning of this itinerary, there are cool sights to see in this walkable capital.  The food scene, and especially the coffee scene, is burgeoning in the aftermath of the pandemic, so find some good restaurants and check them out!  If you’re not in the mood for a full restaurant vibe, there are plenty of hot dog stands around the capital (they’re inexpensive and taste great!).

You’ve been seeing so much nature, so many waterfalls, I’m sure the city is a nice change of pace.

Day Four: Golden Circle or Volcano, your choice!

One of the main reasons we’re back in Reykjavik, depending on when you’re reading this post, is that Reykjavik has plenty of COVID testing available for those who need a negative test to re-enter their home country.  Andrew at The Points Guy posted a great guide on pandemic travel to Iceland, including how he got his test, here .  I posted my experience in Akureyri, on the northern coast, here .  Starting your final full day in Iceland with a COVID test will be critical if you’d like to board your flight home!  Make sure you tell the staff that you need a printout of your test results as well and ask where to pick up the printout.

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a (you’d never guess this) circular drive from Reykjavik that is easily doable in a day.  It hits three great spots: 

• Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park
• Geysir Geothermal Area
• Gullfoss waterfall

The drive only takes about 3 hours round trip, but it will take you the better part of a day to do, since there are plenty of great stops along the way.

There are many great guides to the Golden Circle out there, one of my favorites (because I’ve never done it myself) is this one from Guide to Iceland .

Optional: The Blue Lagoon

Yep, the Blue Lagoon: Iceland’s super-popular geothermal tourist attraction.  It’s actually really close to Keflavik (where the airport is located) but a relatively drive from Reykjavik, about an hour away.  Their website has all the great details you’ll need, especially opening hours, which vary from season to season.  I’ve known many people who tried to go the morning that they were leaving but the opening hours did not leave them enough time to really enjoy the experience, so I recommend going the day before you leave.

The Blue Lagoon’s website has all the information you need to know.  I’ve never personally visited but I imagine I will at some point.  From everything I’ve heard, yes it is touristy but it’s still pretty cool.  I’ve visited other geothermally-heated pools in Iceland and enjoyed it, the Blue Lagoon is just a more commercialized version of it.

Where to stay for Day Four

I would stay back in Reykjavik, a great ending to a wonderful trip.  Go out to a nice restaurant and have a few drinks, and gawk at the price you paid for those drinks.  

Day Five: Fly Home!

Today will feature a drive to Keflavik Airport, turning in your rental car, boarding your flight and heading home!

Ok so what did I leave out from this itinerary?

Omg there’s so much to see in Iceland.  Next time you visit you could go up the west coast to the Snaefellsness Peninsula to see Kirkjufell and keep going into the Westfjords.  You could take the Ring Road around the entire country.  You could go to the north coast and places like Akureyri or Siglufjordur.  You could really go remote and head into the Highlands during the summer for some camping.

Iceland enthusiasts will no doubt say this is a very touristy look at Iceland, and they’re not wrong.  It’s hard to take anything other than a sip from this great country the first time you visit.  I always encourage people to travel as if they’ll visit again, and Iceland is no exception.  An area I would love to drink deeply of is the Westfjords, I just sampled its greatness in 2018 and could easily spend a week or longer in that region.

Most of all, I really hope this guide comes across as a love letter to this beautiful country.  I have many great memories here and look forward to creating more of them in the years ahead.  I hope this gives you some ideas of what to do when you visit and, most of all, gets you excited to visit Iceland!

This was my first-ever guide to a country after only 8.5 years of blogging, how did I do?  What would you like to see in future guides like this?  Tell me in the comments below!

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Really lovely guide. Thank you for the incredibly detailed maps and gorgeous photos! I spent 3 days there and it wasn’t enough. I look forward to going back with your recommendations!

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Iceland Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

Iceland is a magical place. It’s the land of sheep, northern lights, volcanoes with unpronounceable names (try saying “Eyjafjallajökull”), rugged landscapes, waterfalls, mountains, and natural hot springs. Its stunning, scenic landscape feels out of this world.

Iceland quickly became one of my favorite countries after my first visit. It’s such a beautiful island filled with warm, welcoming people and sweeping vistas you won’t find anywhere else in the world. I have relished every subsequent visit to the country.

However, Iceland is expensive.

Traveling here on a budget is difficult as Iceland is definitely not a cheap country (and the growing influx of tourists is only increasing prices further).

Fortunately, it is possible to see a lot without going broke if you plan ahead. You won’t be living large if you’re here to backpack, but Iceland is worth the expense.

This travel guide to Iceland can help you plan your trip and see the sights without breaking the bank!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Iceland

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Iceland

1. Visit the Mývatn Nature Baths

Mývatn is quieter and less expensive than the famous Blue Lagoon (more on that below). The water from the underground hot springs is pulled from depths of up to 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) and reaches 37–39°C (98–102°F). The pool’s iconic milky blue color is created from the reflection of the sun on silica-rich water. Grab some local geyser-baked bread that they sell at the little cafe and relax, or enjoy a cocktail from the swim-up bar. After your soak you can head in for a geothermal steam bath, naturally created from the steam that rises through the floorboards. The Northeast area of Iceland where the pools are located is abundant with wildlife, so you might even spot local birds while you swim. Admission to Mývatn Nature Baths is 6,490 ISK.

2. See the Northern Lights

Seeing this natural phenomenon was one of the most awe-inspiring things I have ever witnessed. Aurora Borealis is named after the Roman Goddess of dawn and the north wind. They are a stunning sight that is caused by electrically charged particles as they speed into the earth’s atmosphere. They’re only visible in the arctic regions of the world, as the earth’s magnetic field is weaker there. The lights are best admired in remote places away from city lights. The best time to catch them is from mid-September to mid-April. However, it depends on the weather. The longer you stay, the better your chances. If you don’t have a car, you can take a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik for 7,700 ISK.

3. Tour Reykjavik

Reykjavik is awash in cozy cafes, high-energy clubs, friendly pubs, and brightly colored wooden row houses. It’s super small and worth a few days to get a feel for the art and cafe culture of the city. Reykjavik translates to ‘smoky bay’ and was named for the steam that rises from the hot springs. It’s the northernmost capital of the world and despite its intimate size, the city is home to about 60% of Iceland’s population, making it one of the liveliest places in the country. Foodies will love the ever-expanding culinary scene where you can try options ranging from fine dining to tasty street food. If you’re a night owl, you’ll love the party scene here but be warned: they don’t go out until about midnight and drinks aren’t cheap!

4. Check out the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon

Located in the southeast of Iceland within Vatnajökull National Park, this ice flow is one of the most popular attractions in the country. It’s the deepest lake in Iceland and is formed from the melting glaciers. Deep blue water is littered with icebergs which move through the lagoon towards the Atlantic Ocean, and you might spot seals perched on floating chunks of ice or swimming in the frosty water. Over the past 50 years the lake has grown significantly due to rising temperatures and currently covers 18 square kilometers (11 square miles). I enjoyed just sitting down and listening to the ice crash into each other on its way out to sea. For an up-close look at the glaciers, consider exploring the lagoon by boat.

5. See the waterfalls

Iceland is the king of waterfalls with over 10,000 cascades to explore. Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Europe with a huge volume of water cascading over the falls every minute, at 45 meters (147 feet) tall and 100 meters (328 feet) wide. Gullfoss is one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland and is close to Iceland’s famous golden circle (its name translates to ‘golden waterfall’). Seljalandsfoss is beautiful and you can walk behind the falls to get up close and personal with the powerful water. And then there’s Skogafoss which can be found along the Skógá River, and Svartifoss, which is surrounded by towering black cliffs.

Other Things to See and Do in Iceland

1. soak in the blue lagoon.

While I found the Mývatn baths to be a more relaxing and less expensive option, you cannot deny that Iceland’s most famous geothermal pool is the country’s top tourist attraction. It might be crowded and expensive, but there’s nothing like it in the world. This huge, milky-blue spa is fed by mineral-rich heated seawater from the nearby geothermal plant. Add the silvery towers of the plant, rolling clouds of steam, and people covered in white mud, and you’ll think you’re in the twilight zone – in a good way! Admission with a drink, towel, and mud mask is 14,000 ISK.

2. Take a Game of Thrones tour

The harsh climate north of the Wall in HBO’s hit series was predominantly filmed in Iceland. Explore the film locations on a guided tour, with both single- and multi-day options available, to get a behind-the-scenes look at this epic series. An 8-hour day tour starts at 15,470 ISK.

3. Explore Thingvellir National Park

This national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is interesting for two reasons: it’s the original site of the longest-running parliament in the world (Vikings held political meetings here in the 10th century), and it’s also where the North American and European continental shelf plates are being torn apart (you can actually scuba dive between the plates for around 35,000 ISK). It’s one of the main stops in the Golden Circle and has several trails if you want to get out and stretch your legs. There are also some campgrounds here if you want to stay the night. Admission is free.

4. See Maelifell Volcano

Found in Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park north of Vik, Maelifell’s perfect cone shape gives this volcano that ‘classic’ volcano look. During the summer, snow melts to reveal a lavish green surface covered with moss. There is plenty to do and see in the surrounding park which is full of volcanoes, hot springs, and hiking trails. During the winter, a lot of the roads in the park close, so the summer season is the best time to go if you want to see the volcano up close. You can get to the volcano in 90 minutes by car from Vik.

5. Check out the geysers

Volcanic activities underneath the surface of Iceland have created a lot of geysers, underground springs, and thermal pools. Strokkur, in the southwest of Iceland, is currently the most popular geyser in the country. It erupts every 15 minutes and shoots a spray of water over 10 meters (32 feet) into the air. Geysir (from which the English word geyser is derived), was the first popular geyser known to tourists, though it no longer erupts frequently (you can still visit it though). There is no admission to see Strokkur (or Geysir, which is nearby). Arrive early to beat the hordes of tourists that come by bus as this is a main Golden Circle tourist stop.

6. Drive the Golden Circle Tourist Trail

The Golden Circle is a 230 kilometer (140 mile) route that includes some of the most popular sites near Reykjavik, including Gullfoss, Thingvellir, and Geysir/Strokkur. This is the main route for tourists visiting for just a day or two and lots of tourist buses drive this route. Other stops include the Kerið volcano crater, Hveragerði greenhouse village, Skálholt church, and the Nesjavellir or Hellisheiði geothermal power plant. If you have a vehicle, start your day early to beat the buses. You can drive the whole route in a few hours. If you don’t have your own car you can take a guided tour of the Golden Circle for 9,555 ISK.

7. Hike the Laugavegur trail

This 55 kilometer (34 mile) trail runs between Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk and is a popular hike. Considered one of the most extraordinary hiking trails in the world, it offers a gorgeous variety of landscapes, including mountains in various colors, hot springs and glaciers, rivers, and lakes. Its well-worn trail, cozy huts, steady stream of trekkers, and frequent signposts make it a relatively safe and logistically easy venture. You can stay in huts for around 10,200 ISK per night, or camp in the designated areas outside the huts for just 2,500 ISK. You can hike the entire trail in 3-5 days.

8. Hike the Fimmvörðuháls Trail

If the full Laugavegur hike is too much, try your hand at the shorter (but equally as stunning) Fimmvorduhals trail. Stretching between Þórsmörk and Skógar, this trail can be done in a day or broken up into a two-day adventure. You can either camp or book one of the mountain huts located along the route. Just be aware: the huts sell out fast! The trail is moderately challenging so you’ll need to have solid footwear and be in good shape. Make sure you have rain gear as the weather can change quickly. Hiking is free if you don’t camp and there is a bus that can take you from Þórsmörk back to Skógar if you parked your car there (it’s 8,000 ISK each way).

9. Go fishing

Iceland is famous for its fish. With tons of salmon, trout, cod, and haddock, fishing here is incredibly popular and a big part of Icelandic culture and cuisine. You can find fishing tours from Reykjavik as well as more remote destinations like the Westfjords. They’re pretty much available everywhere! Expect to pay around 16,000 ISK for a three-hour fishing tour.

10. See the Skaftafell Ice Cave

These beautiful ice caves in Vatnajökull National Park attract adventurers from around the globe. The caves are part of the largest ice cap in the country and the second-largest in all of Europe. They are only accessible in winter. Guided tours take you into the caves where, armed with an ax and crampons, you can explore this otherworldly landscape. Tours start at 19,200 ISK per person and last around 4 hours.

11. Go whale watching

Iceland is home to some 20 different species of whale, as well as dolphins and harbor porpoises. Minke, fin, and humpback whales are the most commonly seen, and orcas and sperm whales appear regularly as well. The prime whale-watching season is from April to September, with most tours leaving from the south (Reykjavik) or north (Akureyri). Tours start at 10,000 ISK and go up from there. They usually last 2-3 hours.

12. Visit Landmannalaugar

Located in the interior highlands, these multicolored rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and volcanoes are a popular tourist destination for anyone looking to get off the main tourist trail. The striking landscapes look like a different planet. Horseback riding trips can be done here, starting at 11,000 ISK for a one-hour guided tour. For a short day hike, try the Sulpher Wave Trail. It takes around two hours. Note: to get here you need to drive on F-roads, which means you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle.

13. See Kirkjufell Mountain

Near the small town of Grundarfjörður in western Iceland, this iconic mountain juts out from the landscape. Surrounding this striking mountain are a bunch of waterfalls. If you come in the winter, it’s a gorgeous place to spot the northern lights. The mountain is one of the most photographed sights in all of Iceland (you’ve probably seen it on Instagram).

14. Hike the Snaefellsnes peninsula

Stretching out from the west coast, this peninsula is topped by a large national park. It’s a great place to take a hike or a stroll along the windy and winding coast. There are numerous hills and mountains to climb, including Snæfellsjökull. If you’re feeling adventurous (and have the money!) book a glacier walking tour for 17,000 ISK. These tours take you out over the remote glacier where you can hike, peer into crevasses, and learn about this martian landscape.

15. Search for puffins

Puffins can be spotted nesting all over Iceland between mid-April and mid-August. The larger populations are found on the Westman Islands and in the Westfjords, as well as in certain parts of the East Fjords. While you can try and spot some yourself (ask locals for help!) you can also book a tour to see them up close. Tours cost around 8,900 ISK.

16. Take a culinary tour

If you want to learn more about Icelandic cuisine and try some local favorites, take a culinary tour in Reykjavik. Companies like The Reykjavik Food Walk take you to 5-6 local restaurants for a 3.5-hour tour for around 16,000 ISK. You can try local dishes, learn how they are made, and get first-hand experience of Iceland’s unique cuisine.

17. Visit the National Museum of Iceland

This museum in Reykjavik contains informative exhibits about the first settlers to the island, Christianity in Iceland, the island under both Norwegian and Danish rule, and the independence movement. While not terribly large (you can probably get through it in a couple of hours at the most) it’s a great visit if you are interested in knowing more about the history and culture of the people. General admission is 2,500 ISK.

18. Take a course at the Icelandic Elf School

The Icelandic Elf School is a school that teaches students and visitors about Icelandic folklore. They teach about the “hidden people” and the 13 different kinds of elves that the school believes inhabit the country of Iceland. This is probably one of the strangest things to check out while in Reykjavik, which makes it one of the best. While the 9,058 ISK cost might be a little high, you also get a meal of pancakes and jam, teas, and chocolates to go along with the 3-4-hour lecture!

19. Visit the Penis Museum

The Phallological Museum, colloquially known as the Penis Museum, is a small institution home to the world’s largest collection of penises and penis-themed art. There are almost 300 items in the museum, including whale penises and (allegedly) troll penises! It’s a small museum but it’s incredibly informative — if you’re not too shy! Admission is 2,500 ISK.

Iceland Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a hostel dorm with 8-10 beds costs around 4,500-7,500 ISK per person per night. Private rooms cost 18,000-28,000 ISK. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities.

Many hostels in Iceland charge extra for linens/blankets. You can bring your own, however, you cannot use a sleeping bag instead. Additionally, many of the hostels around the country are HI hostels which offer 5-10% discounts to members.

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds are available all around the country costing 1,600-2,700 ISK for a basic plot for two people without electricity. Wild camping, while technically legal, is frowned upon by locals.

Budget hotel prices – Expect to pay between 13,500-20,000 ISK per night for a double room with a private bathroom (usually with breakfast included). Free Wi-Fi is usually included, as well as other basic amenities like AC and a coffee/tea maker.

Since hotels are so expensive in Iceland, I much prefer to rent a room or apartment on Airbnb. Private rooms can be found for around 13,000 ISK while entire homes/apartments cost at least 19,000-25,000 ISK. Prices double when not booked early.

Food – Fish, lamb, and dairy are the main staples of Icelandic cuisine. Food here is very similar to what you’ll find across Scandinavia. Smoked lamb, cured meat, dark bread, and skyr (a local yogurt) are all incredibly popular. Haddock and herring are some of the most widely eaten fish. Shrimp is very common too. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to try snúður (a cinnamon roll with chocolate on top).

If you are going to eat out here, expect to pay around 2,500 ISK for a cheap meal of local cuisine. You can find kebabs, soups, and other quick eats for around 1,500 ISK or less. Fast food (which is rare here) usually costs around 2,000 ISK for a combo meal.

For cheap meals, consider grabbing a hot dog (you can find them in every city and at gas stations). They cost around 500-650 ISK. Surprisingly, a decent place to eat cheaply in Iceland is at the gas stations. Most gas stations sell everything from deli sandwiches, pizzas, Icelandic soups, hot meals, fruit, and they have whole aisles of candy! It’s decent fast food and some of the cheapest you’ll find (albeit not the healthiest).

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal with a drink costs around 6,500 ISK.

Beer costs around 1,400 ISK. A latte/cappuccino is around 615 ISK. Bottled water (which you won’t need here) is around 270 ISK.

If you plan on cooking your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 9,500 ISK. This includes basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and a little bit of meat.

Backpacking Iceland Suggested Budgets

On a bare-bones backpacker budget of 7,000 ISK per day, you can camp, cook all your meals, hitchhike to get around, skip drinking, and do free activities like hiking or visiting waterfalls. If you plan on drinking, add 1,000-2000 ISK per day to your budget.

On a more reasonable backpacking budget of 10,500 ISK per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, cook most of your food and have a couple of cheap fast food meals, enjoy a drink here and there, take public transportation to get around and do a couple paid activities like museum visits in Reykjavik.

On a mid-range budget of 23,000 ISK per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat fast food with the occasional traditional meal, split a car rental to get around, drink a little more, and do more paid activities like a puffin tour or whale watching.

On a “luxury” budget of 36,000 ISK per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out at cheap restaurants serving local cuisine, drink out at the bar a few times, rent your own car, and do more expensive excursions like glacier hikes or scuba diving. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in ISK.

Iceland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Iceland is an expensive country to visit. Almost everything is imported, taxes are high, and there’s not a lot of local industry. But that doesn’t mean the country has to break the bank. In fact, there are many ways to save money in Iceland thanks in part of all the free outdoor activities you can do! Here are a few ways to cut down your costs:

• Hitchhike – Iceland is one of the easiest and safest countries in the world for hitchhikers (in fact, it’s the safest country in the world!). You can find rides throughout the country, though it’s especially easy in the southern part of Iceland. While harder, it’s also not impossible to find a ride in the off-season or in the less populated northern regions. One way to find rides is by asking around in hostels — people are usually driving the main Ring Road (M1) that circles the country. That’s how I found my rides.
• Bring a water bottle – The water in Iceland is incredibly clean and drinkable. In fact, you can fill up directly from streams and rivers! LifeStraw is my go-to company for reusable water bottles as their bottles include built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Camp – Camping is available everywhere in Iceland. You can camp in designated campgrounds for under 2,400 ISK per night and some hostels allow you to put up tents too. You’ll need to have your own gear and sleeping bag. If you plan on camping often, consider purchasing the Campingcard as it can save you quite a bit of money.
• Bring your own sheets – Like in other Scandinavian countries, many hostels in Iceland charge you a fee for bed sheets if you don’t have your own (pillows are free!). Linen fees usually begin at 1,350 ISK; however, some hostels are starting to include them for free. Usually, they will allow you to bring your own blankets but not a sleeping bag.
• Don’t drink – Due to high taxes, it’s very expensive to drink in Iceland. Save money and don’t drink. Ok, maybe once in Reykjavik since its nightlife is world-famous. But other than that, don’t. You’ll save a bundle and feel a lot better. No one wants to hike a volcano with a hangover!
• Cook your own food – With dining out being so pricey, I found the best thing to do is go grocery shopping. Buy everything you need (such as eggs, cereal, pre-made sandwiches, and pasta) and cook it yourself. Most hostels, guesthouses, and campsites have kitchens. Shop at BONUS food stores as they have the cheapest prices.
• Eat hotdogs – If you are going to eat out, eat at the sandwich and hotdog stalls you find throughout the cities. They offer the cheapest (although, not the healthiest) food in the country. You can also find cheap hotdogs at many gas stations, too.
• Stay with a local – Iceland has a very active Couchsurfing community. I stayed with hosts in Reykjavik and Akureyri. Getting involved with the community here is a surefire way to save money, get local insights, meet wonderful people, and get a free place to stay.
• Use Samferda – This website can help you find passengers (or rides). It’s especially popular in the larger cities and it’s cheaper than the bus.

Where to Stay in Iceland

Iceland has tons of hostels all around the country. They are the cheapest form of accommodation. My favorite places to stay are:

• KEX (Reykjavik)
• Hafnarstræti Hostel (Akureyri)
• Akureyri HI Hostel (Akureyri)
• Start Hostel (Keflavik)

For more recommendations, check out this list of my favorite hostels in Iceland

How to Get Around Iceland

Public transportation – The larger cities of Reykjavik and Akureyri both have a reliable public bus network, although both cities are small enough that you can walk just about everywhere. Strætó is the public bus network and you can plot your route on their website. Bus fare is 490 ISK.

Bus – Using buses to travel around the country is the best option if you don’t have a car. The Strætó bus network goes all around the country (though some regions aren’t covered and routes can be a little infrequent).

A bus from Reykjavik to Akureyri costs 7,100 ISK, while Akureyri to Husavik is around 2,500 ISK. Reykjavik to Vik is 3,850 ISK. Keep in mind though that these are public buses that will get you from point A to point B — there are no stops at attractions. You can look up routes and schedules on the Strætó website or download their app.

There are other bus/tour companies geared specifically towers travelers in Iceland, however, including:

• Reykjavík Excursions
• SBA-Norðurleið

Reykjavík Excursions departs from Reykjavík and offers tours and day trips, but they also have an “Iceland On Your Own” deal where you can buy passes and be more flexible with your route (prices depend on where you’re going).

Trex Hiker is catered specifically for hikers and runs people between Reykjavik and popular hiking routes like Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk.

Flying – The two main domestic airlines within Iceland are Icelandair and Eagle Air. Destinations covered include Reykjavík, Akureyri, Grímsey, Ísafjörður, and Egilsstaðir (among others). The biggest airport outside of Reykjavík is in Akureyri. A flight here would allow you to cross the entire country in about 30 minutes. If you’re short on time but still want to visit the north, flying is your best option. Expect to pay 15,000-17,500 ISK for a one-way ticket.

Car rental – Renting a car is the best way to travel to Iceland. Small cars cost as little as 6,200 ISK per day and you can split the costs with traveling companions. SADcars and Iceland Car Rental are two of cheapest car rental companies in the country.

If you’re on a budget and have extra space in your car you can use the website Samferda to find passengers.

When to Go to Iceland

Your experience in Iceland will be largely influenced by the time of year you visit. June to September is the best time to visit, as temperatures are pleasant and average between 10-15°C (50-59°F). The days are long and the sun only sets for a few hours. This is also when tourism is at its busiest.

The spring and fall months (shoulder season) are both excellent times to visit as well. The crowds have thinned out, and although temperatures are chilly — ranging from 4-7°C (40-45°F) — there’s still a lot of sunshine. You’ll also get cheaper accommodation too.

Winter (from October to April) can be harsh, but it’s still an interesting time to visit. The days are short and temperatures drop below freezing. However, there are plenty of opportunities to see the northern lights. Driving conditions are hazardous though so this isn’t a good time to rent a vehicle.

How to Stay Safe in Iceland

Iceland is the safest country in the world! You will not be the victim of any crime here. There’s no murder here and no petty crime. I mean I wouldn’t leave your valuables unattended but that’s not beause of locals but because of travelers! Your biggest concern here is the elements. Iceland’s environment can be harsh and unpredictable, especially in the winter. The Iceland Meteorological Office and the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration are two valuable websites to check in with as you travel.

If you go out hiking, bring water, sunscreen, and rain gear. The weather can change rapidly.

If you rent a vehicle, make sure you are careful with the doors. The wind here is extreme and can rip car doors right off your vehicle (this is surprisingly common). Always make sure you have comprehensive insurance coverage when you rent a car.

F-roads (rugged dirt roads) should only be driven on with a 4×4 vehicle. Don’t try driving on them without one!

Scams here are non-existent, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Iceland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Get My Guide to Iceland!

It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and exciting destinations in the world.

• My favorite things to see and do
• Money-saving tips
• Budget advice
• Transportation advice
• My favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars
• And much more!!

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Iceland Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Iceland travel and continue planning your trip:

13 Iceland Road Trip Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go

The 9 Best Hostels in Iceland

The 7 Best Tour Companies in Iceland

Visiting Iceland: Detailed Itineraries for the Land of Fire and Ice

22 Free (Or Cheap) Things to Do in Reykjavik

The 13 Best Things to Do in Iceland

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5 Day Itinerary Iceland: Hidden Gems and Classics

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 17/02/2024

Many people dream of seeing the natural wonders that are dispersed around the nordic nation, Iceland. From bursts of green, orange and red twinkling in the sky, volcanic marvels and green fjords, Iceland captures the imaginations of adventurers from all scenes of the world.

Did you know that it would only take you 12-13 hours to drive around the entire country of Iceland? This essentially means travellers can see all parts of the country in a short number of days – as you will see in this 5 day itinerary Iceland.

This Iceland vacation itinerary will lead you around the awe-inspiring coastal cliffs and mythical mountains to discover the most iconic and cherished parts of Iceland.

Let’s explore what a 5-day itinerary for Iceland entails, and the wonders that you’ll unearth along the way. And be sure to check out my post on everything you need to know before visiting Iceland , to be well prepared.

5 Day Itinerary Iceland: How to Get to there and How to Get Around

If you are flying into Iceland from abroad, you’ll arrive at the Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located 50-minutes from Reykjavik. The capital city also has an airport, but it only services domestic flights or flights to Greenland.

⇒ Flights to Reykjavik

Keflavik Airport is also only about half an hour from the Blue Lagoon . This is why most visitors tend to visit the Blue Lagoon on the first or last day of their trips. In this 5 day itinerary Iceland, I have suggested visiting the Blue Lagoon on the last day of your vacation.

⇒ Don’t miss reading My Guide to the Blue Lagoon and is the Premium Package Worth it?

Getting from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

The airport shuttle service provides fly buses that will take you to Reykjavik. You can choose your hotel as a drop-off point or the central bus terminal (BSI terminal) in the city centre. 

There are 2 companies that run airport buses . You can buy tickets for the Flybus onboard Icelandair flights. Grayline is the other company.

⇒ Save Money & Time – Book Your Transfer from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

Getting around Iceland

Without question, the best way to see Iceland is to Hire a Car.  Not only will it save you a fortune it is the best way to see most of the sites in 3 days in Iceland. Most of the key sites are free eg the Golden Circle so if you have a car costs drop dramatically – especially if you are with a group. And do make sure to check the weather in Iceland for a road trip for the time of year that you will be visiting.

And if you are going to hire a car for your Iceland trip then the best option is to pick it up at Keflavik airport. This will save you the transfer cost between the airport and Reykjavik. This is one of my top travel tips for Iceland .

5 Day Iceland Travel Itinerary: Day 1: The Golden Circle Tour

The Golden Circle tour is Iceland’s most popular day trip. This is generally a full day tour which departs from Reykjavik around 8am and returns at 5pm. If your flight is arriving a bit later you can opt for an afternoon tour  around the Golden Circle.

The core of the Golden Circle tour is the following 3 activities

Pingvellir National Park

Pronounced Thingvellir in English, the park is a UNESCO world heritage site and holds historical significance – it’s the location where Iceland’s first parliament was held.

Thingvellir National Park is located 40-minutes from Reykjavik and has several attractions. It’s geologically unique, where you can see a continental divide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

In the southern part of the park lies the largest natural lake in Iceland, the Thingvallavtn (Pingvallavatn). You can dive or go snorkelling here, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Geysir Thermal Area

After exploring the park, it’ll be a 40-minute drive to the Geysir thermal area. “Geysir” is a geyser in the geothermal area along the Golden Circle. Get your cameras ready to snap pictures of bubbling mud pots, springs shooting up boiling water and steaming air from the earth.

Along the way, before you arrive at the Geysir, you’ll pass by a lovely farm restaurant, the Efstidalur II, that provides some delicious foods.

Gullfoss Waterfalls

Just a quick 10-minute drive from Geysir is one of Iceland’s most iconic falls found in the Hvítá glacial river. It’s a wide, two-tiered waterfall that cascades down a 32-meter drop. For me this was the most stunning waterfall in Iceland.

There are several viewpoints where you can take pictures from. Be mindful that you should wear waterproof clothing and shoes when exploring these spectacular natural wonders.

Boutique Hotels in Reykjavik

Reykjavik has a fantastic boutique hotel scene with some great high end design options as well as some interesting concept hotels.

The classic Reykjavik boutique hotel is Hotel Borg . This was essentially Iceland’s first boutique hotel and is still modern in style and delivering on luxury. It also has a fantastic location on Austurvöllur Square, home to Reykjavik’s unique cathedral.

⇒ Read more Reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

101 Reykjavik is a member of the Design Hotels group and is all about sleek and minimalist black and white design. It features the work of local artists and a very stylish bar.

Normally I would never recommend staying at a hostel. However, Reykjavik has two unique hostel concepts and staying at these may give you more cash to enjoy Icelandic lobster.

Kex is the Icelandic word for biscuit. This really has nothing to do with anything but this is the perfect place to stay for solo travelers who like a bit of luxury. They have a fantastic bar and restaurant with live music and wine prices that are dirt cheap for Reykjavik.

They offer singles and doubles (as well as dorms – shudder) which are simple in design but still clean and stylish as this is Iceland.

The second hostel option is the Galaxy Luxury Pod Hotel . This is luxurious budget accommodation (I think that is an oxymoron but will continue). The only option here is a dorm room but instead of a bunk bed you will have your own enclosed pod. And there is a virtual reality gaming room.

If you’re looking to keep all of your cash for full on day trips and Icelandic lamb Air bnb have loads of properties in Reykjavik so this could be a great way to experience real Iceland.

Iceland Trip Itinerary Day 2: Bláfjöll Country Park and Reykjavik South Coast

Upon arriving in Bláfjöll Country Park, you’ll have a couple of hours to spend discovering one of Iceland’s secret natural gems, the Þríhnúkagígur volcano.

After the awe-inspiring venture, drive to the south coast of Reykjavik, where you’ll spot incredible natural attractions and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Bláfjöll Country Park

Begin your second day in Iceland by driving 20km to the east of Reykjavik, where you’ll arrive in Bláfjöll Country Park in the late morning. One of Iceland’s greatest natural phenomenons, an empty volcanic magma chamber of Þríhnúkagígur volcano, is found here.

The tour to the chambers or Inside the Volcano begins with a 3km hike, followed by a cable cart ride that descends 120m into the heart of the dormant volcano.

After the thrilling experience in the scarlet, orange volcano, drive to the small town of Hveragerði, nicknamed the earthquake town. There are supermarkets and a cafe here – the perfect place to grab some food for fueling your adventures.

Reykjavik South Coast

The scenic drive from Bláfjöll Country Park to the south coast will take you around 5 hours, depending on the weather. You’ll most likely arrive in the late evening.

Locals and international travellers are continuously blown away by the beauty that’s found along the south coast of Reykjavik.

Many travellers choose to explore the area in different ways. Embark on a group driving tour or drive around the area and find the beauty yourself. You’ll spot dried lava fields, breathtaking cliff sides and quaint fishing villages.

Check out my article on things to do on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

If you’re travelling during winter, as the night starts to fall, take a drive to the edge of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon . You might get lucky and see the celebrated Northern Lights.

If you’re interested in seeing the Northern Lights I highly recommend staying at Hotel Ranga in Hella. This is one of the two best Iceland Northern Lights hotel options to stay in – in my opinion.

⇒ Read Reviews of Hotel Ranga Iceland on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

Iceland Travel Itinerary: Day 3: Egilsstadir & the East Fjords

On the third day of your itinerary for Iceland, you’ll be venturing out to the quintessential town of Egilsstadir. The 4-hour drive to the town will reward you an array of waterfall sightings, mountainous landscapes and jagged fjords.

Egilsstadir

The town of Egilsstadir is split by Iceland’s largest river, Lagarfljót. It’s in these waters that it’s believed the Loch Ness monster lived. Use this visit as an opportunity to discover the culture, food and folklore found in the east of Iceland.

These parts of Iceland are also the only regions where you’ll spot wild reindeer roaming around. The tree-covered grounds are also particularly rare on the island and a great place to go for a light stroll is at the Hallormsstaðaskógur National Forest .

The East Fjords

The east fjords are known globally for their wild beauty, and often the scene of Viking inspired movies and series. Charming fishing villages and glaciers surround the steep cliffs that are nestled along the coast.  And they’re often complemented with thundering waterfalls and crystal clear bodies of water.

Boutique Hotels in Egilsstadir

Hotel 1001 Nott is a luxury family-owned hotel on a quiet lake about 4km from Egilsstadir. Every room has floor to ceiling windows and contemporary and modern design.

The restaurant at Hotel 1001 Nott also has floor to ceiling windows to take advantage of the beautiful vistas – and it is well known for its reindeer burgers.

Or why not stay at an Icelandic farmhouse? Hotel Eyvindara is another family-run hotel just 2 km from Egilsstadir. Many of their simple and modern rooms also have private balconies. Their restaurant serves a mix of Icelandic and international dishes.

Iceland Travel Itinerary: Day 4: Husavik & Akureyri

A leisurely drive of around 3 hours will take you from Egilsstadir to the coastal town Husavik, which is famous for whale-watching and for its role in the fantastic Eurovision Song Contest Film: The Story of Fire Saga .

Given that the main spectacle is the chance to watch whales breaching over the water, try to leave Eglisstadir as early as possible to reach Husavik, and then Akureyri.

Thousands of travellers are drawn to Husavik to catch the chance of spotting whales. On the traditional whale tour , you’ll also often encounter the harbour porpoise, the titanic blue whale and plenty of white-beaked dolphins.

Once you’ve gotten your thrill of seeing the sea life, visit the Exploration Museum and Whale Museum , to discover even more weird and wonderful facts about these sea creatures.

An hours drive from Husavik is Akureyri, the second largest town of Iceland which holds a vibrant, bustling population. And with a city this big, an exciting array of activities await you.

Consider doing something you’ve probably never done before, visit an arctic botanical garden. The garden encompasses every flower species native to Iceland, and fairy-like paths will lead you through the wonderful scenery. Entrance is free, a nice bonus.

End of the day by dining at Strikið , one of the best restaurants in the country. The classy establishment shows off views of the surrounding fjords. Those brave enough for the cold can choose to enjoy their meal of the terrain with even better views.

Spend the night in Akureyri before making your way back to Reykjavik.

Hotel Akureyri is a super cute and quirky boutique hotel with micro suites in downtown Akureyri. They have a mix of rooms that feature ocean views or sloping ceilings or private balconies.

Hotel Kea is located in the heart of Akureyri next to its famous church. Their 104 rooms have contemporary wooden floorboards and modern interior design. They also have an excellent in house restaurant Mulaberg Bistro & bar.

Reykjavik Itinerary: Day 5: Back to Reykjavik to Explore the City and/or visit the Blue Lagoon

After a good night’s rest in Akureyri, start your morning bright and early, and journey back to Reykjavik. The drive will take you approximately 5 hours. This will be your last day to experience the capital of Iceland.

Depending on the time of your flight, you may well be able to explore Reykjavik and visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon on your way to Keflavik airport.

If you are short on time I would recommend prioritizing a visit to the Blue Lagoon. Reykjavik is a very cute town with lots of atmosphere but the Blue Lagoon is a genuinely unique experience that you won’t encounter elsewhere.

City Life in Reykjavik

Start your day wandering along the streets and through the charming neighbourhood. Or venture to Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, which shows off the icy sea waters and views of Mount Esja in the background. Don’t miss the stunning Sun Voyager sculpture on the harbor.

There are plenty of museums that can be visited in the Icelandic capital. Choose between visiting the Saga Museum, the Maritime Museum or the National Museum of Iceland. A visit will most likely take you 1-2 hours, which leaves you with time to wander the lively streets.

Visit the tallest church in Iceland – the Hallgrimskirkja which has fantastic views over Reykjavik and if you’re a coffee-lover, pop into Reykjavik Roasters for a fantastic cup of coffee.

Blue Lagoon

After exploring Reykjavik, venture to the Blue Lagoon , which is one of the most popular things to do in Iceland. The man-made lagoon, which features milky blue waters, is supplied by warm waters from Svartsengi, the nearby geothermal power plant. Travellers enjoy taking dips in the water or venturing the spa and resort.

It’s recommended you book a ticket in advance to skip the queues to get into the Blue lagoon. This is a must-do during your 5 day Itinerary Iceland and a perfect way to finish your vacation.

Blue Lagoon is a 50-minute drive from the city centre. You can take Reykjanesbraut, Highway 42, through to Grindavíkurvegur, Highway 43, and then simply follow the signs to Blue Lagoon and then drive on to Keflavik airport once you’ve finished.

The Blue Lagoon is open from 8 am – 8 pm, and ticket prices will vary depending on the time.

Best Time to Visit Iceland

While it’s not a problem to visit Iceland all-year-round, different seasons provide different opportunities for travellers.

5 days in Iceland during summer is always going to be great for outdoor adventure tours and hikes through the wildlife. Summer will last from June to August, and it’s one of the most popular times for visiting the country.

However, the shorter days in the winter months will create a better opportunity to see the glorious Northern Lights. You can also spend more time visiting museums, cosying up by the fire and galavanting in the snowy forests. September to mid-April are the coldest months in Iceland.

Things to Know before you go to Iceland

⇒ If you have not hired a 4 WD car check in with your hotel on where you are going to make sure that your car will be ok. Quite a few roads are 4WD only and they show up quickly.

⇒ There is no need to buy a SIM card for Iceland. Indeed my UK provider Vodafone covered me under my normal UK plan.

⇒ Also, there is wifi virtually everywhere in Iceland and it is almost always free. This is from the hotels to the major tourist attractions.

⇒ You can save a lot of money by  grabbing your lunch at a supermarket.  The supermarkets in Iceland are great – loads of good quality produce.

⇒ Icelandic chocolate is also delicious. We also bought crisps, dips etc at the supermarket for pre-dinner snacks. A key item you must try whilst in Iceland is the national yoghurt Skyr .

⇒ Wine is very expensive in Iceland. However, there are several ways around this. Firstly when you arrive in Iceland and go to baggage claim there is a giant duty and tax-free store . Iceland is I believe the only place in the world to have shopping that is both tax and duty-free.

⇒ Virtually everywhere in Iceland accepts cards – even the toilets. This is much easier than dealing with cash. It is also quite easy to pay individually when you are in a group.

Get Ready to Embark on a 5 Day Trip to Iceland

The strikingly beautiful landscapes in Iceland will leave you breathless, no matter how many times you’ve explored the nordic country. Fortunately, the country is so small; it allows travellers the opportunity to discover all the magical destinations and natural wonders.

Perhaps 5 days may be too long for you. If so, be sure to check out my best Iceland Itinerary for 3 days , which includes many fantastic ventures.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Best Times and Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

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How To Make Your Honeymoon a Bucket List Experience

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6 Bucket List Holidays You'll Want to Explore

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5 Best Road Trips in Iceland: A Local Expert's View

Best time to visit iceland: your complete guide, driving iceland's golden circle: all you need to know, how long does it take to drive around iceland, 4 best ways to spend a week in iceland.

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10 Reasons why Iceland is the Perfect Instagram Honeymoon Destination

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8 Volcanic Experiences to Have in Iceland

6 best icelandic islands: your complete guide.

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8 Must-See Geothermal Attractions in Iceland

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Top 10 Experiences to Have in Iceland

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8 Ways to Experience Glaciers in Iceland

What to wear in iceland : your guide.

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Driving Iceland's Ring Road: All You Need to Know

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10 Ways to Enjoy the Snow in Iceland

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Top 10 Waterfalls in Iceland

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In Focus: Iceland's Golden Circle

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6 Reasons to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Iceland

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A Little Something about the Northern Lights

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Top 10 Things to Do in Iceland in Winter

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Considering a Honeymoon in Iceland?

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5 Food Experiences Not to Miss in Iceland

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The South Coast of Iceland: Your Complete Guide

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What To Do In Iceland's Westfjords

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Wondering What to See in West Iceland?

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South Iceland: Hidden Pools to Local Hangouts

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Iceland In Focus: The Remote and Hauntingly Beautiful Highlands

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10 Must-sees in North Iceland: Best Places to Visit

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In Focus: 6 Must-Sees in East Iceland

My snæfellsnes: west is best.

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Photo of the Month: South Iceland Winter Adventure

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Christmas in Iceland with the Yule Lads

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Christmas Traditions in the Nordics

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Jökulsárlón: Sailing Among the Icebergs

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Photo of the Month: Autumnal Iceland

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Like Sheep and Tradition? Join Iceland’s Annual Réttir

Photo of the month: iceland rocks, in brief: iceland’s volcanic westman islands.

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How to Celebrate the Summer Solstice in the Nordics

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Pop Quiz: Can you name this destination?

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Photo of the Month: Iceland's Chilling Beauty

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Puffin Facts: 5 Things You May Not Know About The Puffin

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Our Favourite Social Snaps of the Week

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8 Incredible Places to See on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Photo of the month: photography & fun in iceland.

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We Tried It: The Secret Lagoon in Flúðir

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Photo of the Month: One Last Hurrah

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We Tried It: Eyjafjallajökull Exclusive

Thinking of a honeymoon in iceland.

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7 Incredible Things to Experience in Iceland in 2016

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6 Þorrablót Foods for the Culinarily Brave

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Photo of the Month - Changing Seasons in Iceland

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My Iceland: The Other Flatey

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Photo of the Month: Chasing Waterfalls

We tried it: vatnshellir cave.

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Aurora Surprise: Traveller Stories

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Tips & Tricks: Dressing for Northern Lights Viewing

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In Brief: Spending a Day in Reykjavík

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Photo of the Month: Timing it Right in Iceland

In focus: northern lights.

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We Tried It: Iceland's Homemade Ice Cream

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My East Fjords: Iceland's Hidden Side

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Alice & Bob's Iceland Grand Tour: Part 3 - Closing the Loop

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Alice & Bob's Iceland Grand Tour: Part 2 - East to West

Alice & bob's iceland grand tour: part 1 - reykjavik to höfn, my reykjavík: a photographer's dream.

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Iceland’s Animals & Wildlife: Your Guide

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11 Weird and Unusual Things to Do in Iceland

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Shark meat & summer snow: an Iceland tale

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We tried it: Reykjavík on 2 Wheels

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Photo of the Month: Chillin’ at Jökulsárlón

Akureyri: lonely planet’s 2015 best place in europe.

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A Little Something about Icelandic holidays

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My Iceland: The South at Leisure

Photo of the month: best seat in iceland, 10 things to love about the midnight sun.

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My Iceland: Into the Glacier

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Nordic Photo of the Month: Horsing Around in Iceland

Nordic eats: what's the deal with licorice.

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My Skagafjörður: Horses, Islands & Sunsets

My iceland: in astronauts' footsteps, my iceland: snowmobiling among giants, quiz: what is your nordic city break style.

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A Little Something About Easter in the Nordics

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Nordic Photo of the Month: Puppy Love in Lapland

A little something about icelandic design.

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Photo of the Month: Iceland's Glowing Gullfoss

Favourite family-friendly activities in reykjavik.

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Glowing Ice - November 2014 Photo Winner

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Iceland Ring Road Adventure: The Story

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Oh Baby! October 2014 Photo Winner

Iceland ring road adventure: day 5 - home, iceland ring road adventure: day 4 - snow, iceland ring road adventure: day 3 - fjords, iceland ring road adventure: day 2 - ice, iceland ring road adventure: day 1 - go, our favourite museums for a rainy day.

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September 2014 Photo of the Month

My iceland: magical snæfellsnes peninsula, photo of the month - july 2014 winner, photo of the month - may 2014 winner, my iceland: hafdís and her ring road faves.

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Deluxe 4x4 Jeep Adventures in Iceland

Nordic visitor receives education award in iceland.

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The Best in Nordic Travel for 2014

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The Nordic Countries in a Nutshell: a Travel Story

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Where & When to See the Midnight Sun

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Reykjavik from Above

Aurora borealis: a bright outlook for winter.

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Iceland Travel Blog

Wondering when the best time to travel is? Want to know more about a particular destination?  Here on our blog, we share our insider travel tips, insights, itinerary suggestions, and our experiences.

The Aurora Hunter’s Practical Guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland – 2024 Winter Edition

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The Spa Lover’s Guide to Iceland: 9 Luxurious Geothermal Baths to Visit in 2024

Every visitor should add at least one geothermal spa to their itinerary. You can read below some of the best places to look at before deciding which one, or ones, are for you.

24 Unique Things to Try in Iceland in 2024

Iceland is considered by many to be the world’s most beautiful country. The wide variety of natural wonders available on a tiny island is unsurpassable.

13 Exciting Attractions to Visit on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Reykjanes is home to some of Iceland’s top attractions. Explore its stunning coastlines, dramatic cliffs, active volcanoes, steaming geothermal areas,, mossy lava fields, and more!

Top Attractions in West Iceland’s Borgafjörður and the Silver Circle

Borgafjörður is a remarkable region in the west of Iceland; it deserves more attention than it gets. Its attractions can be visited on a single-day trip from Reykjavík, making it an especially convenient travel destination.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Breiðafjörður – Attractions and Travel Tips

We’ll take you through the most awesome places to visit around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and let you into a few hidden gems to consider adding to your bucket list.

The Traveler’s Guide to West Iceland – Weather, Geology, and Things to do

West Iceland is an extremely diverse region. Its natural environment is stunning; volcanoes, a dramatic coastline, fishing villages, vast lava fields, and giant waterfalls. Visit Vesturland, and you will see all of this!

Iceland in April – Events, and Activities, Where to go, What to Wear, and More

Iceland is a world of wonder any time of the year, with terrific activities and fascinating sights year-round. Visiting Iceland in April provides an excellent

Iceland in March – Weather, Packing List, What to do and More

Iceland is a world of wonder any time of the year, with terrific activities and fascinating sights year-round. Whether March is a good time for

The Smart Traveler’s Guide to Iceland – Essential Information for Discerning Visitors

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The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in East Iceland

The eastern region of Iceland has received little attention; being too far from the capital is a common observation. It’s a mistake because East Iceland

The Traveler’s Guide to East Iceland – Weather, Landscape, and Things to do

Most visitors to Iceland tend to concentrate on the immediate area around Reykjavik. As a result, the eastern region has received little attention to date;

The Most Beautiful North Iceland Attractions to Visit – Top 20 Places

Most Iceland visitors tour Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, and the country’s famed South Coast, then leave again. They’ll have a wonderful time, to be sure,

The Traveler’s Guide to North Iceland – Weather, Landscape, and Things to do

Visiting Iceland in February – All You Need to Know

Despite the lingering winter chill and long hours of darkness, February is an exciting month in Iceland. It’s a time when Iceland starts to look

Iceland in January – Attractions, Things to Do, Travel Tips and More

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Iceland in December – Things to Know Before Your Trip

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What to Pack for Travel in Iceland: the Ultimate Packing Checklist for Every Season

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The Golden Circle of Iceland: a Detailed Guide and a Map of 22 Top-rated Attractions

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The Traveler’s Guide to Iceland’s South Coast: 30 Stunning Places You Must Visit

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Best Time to Visit Iceland: Seasons, Tips & More

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8 Ultimate Steps for Planning Your Dream Vacation in Iceland

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The Ultimate Guide to Super Jeeps in Iceland

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How to drive in Iceland

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Fun Iceland facts

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The Geology of the Blue Lagoon

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Waterfalls in Iceland

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Iceland Summer Packing List: Expert Tips on How To Pack for Your Adventure

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Solo Travel in Iceland: Why it’s the Best Country in the World to Visit Alone

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Where To Stay in Iceland in 2024: Best Areas and Hotels

Jenna Gottlieb Last Updated: September 26, 2023

Planning your epic Iceland vacation but aren’t sure where to base yourself? Whether you’re a first-time or a seasoned visitor, Iceland has something for everyone. And with so much to see and do, where you choose to stay will depend on how you want to spend your time here. In this guide, I share the six best regions to stay in, plus excellent accommodation options and nearby attractions. Here’s where to stay in Iceland.

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with the best restaurants in Rekjavík and the top things to do in Iceland in the summer .

The Best Hotels and Regions to Stay in Iceland

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Iceland is barely populated. The country only has about 370,000 inhabitants and one major city, the capital of Reykjavík, where the majority of people live. So, instead of “towns and cities,” it’s best to think of Iceland in terms of regions to travel to like the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Golden Circle area.

No matter your interests and travel style, you’ll have plenty of choice when it comes to places to stay in Iceland that’ll make your trip truly memorable. In this guide, we cover a breakdown of Iceland’s top areas, the best hotels, and nearby attractions. That way, you can easily decide where to stay in Iceland. Here are our recommended areas to explore:

• Reykjavík (West)
• Golden Circle Area (South)
• Reykjanes Peninsula (Southwest)
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula (West)
• Akureyri (North)
• Höfn (East)

Our Partnership with Booking.com . If you like our content, please book by clicking on our Booking.com links. The price is the same for you, and we get a small commission that helps support our blog. We’ve partnered with Booking.com because they have the most options, great prices, and a solid loyalty program. Just about every hotel is on Booking so our recommendations are not incentivized.

Reykjavík is typically the first (or only) stop for most travelers after arriving at Keflavik International Airport, which is a 45-minute drive to the capital city. Located in the southwest of Iceland, the city is home to fascinating museums, an exciting restaurant scene, eclectic shops, and beautiful outdoor spaces. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want to be in a city.

There’s something to do in Reykjavík every season, from northern lights hunting and snowmobiling in the winter to swimming at Nauthólsvík geothermal beach and exploring the city on foot in the summer.

Iceland’s capital is a small, charming city with a concentrated city center called 101 Reykjavík. It’s a very walkable city. So, if you stay anywhere in the 101 postcode , you’ll be central to most attractions, museums, shops, and restaurants.

Why I Love Reykjavík:

• The high concentration of great museums and art galleries
• Numerous cool bars
• Best place to shop
• Lots of great restaurants (check out the best restaurants in Reykjavík )

Attractions near Reykjavík:

• Hallgrímskirkja
• Laugardalslaug swimming pool
• Harpa Concert Hall
• Sólfar Sun Voyager
• Whale-watching from Reykjavík Harbor

Best restaurants in Reykjavík:

• Grillmarkaðurinn
• Fiskfélagið
• Sushi Social

Best hotels in Reykjavík:

The reykjavík edition.

$$$$ I 5 Star I Nordic Luxury I Restaurant and Bar | Next to Harpa | Stunning Views

Looking for a luxury hotel experience in Reykjavík? This is it. It’s located right next to Harpa, with stunning ocean and mountain views. Rooms feature design elements curated by the world-renowned hotelier Ian Schrager. Expect bespoke furniture, lush rugs, and Icelandic art.

Location, photos, and booking

$$ I 4 Star I Cozy Rooms | Mini Fridges | Restaurant

You’re right in the thick of it all when you stay at Alda. It’s perfect for being within walking distance of everything in Reykjavik. Rooms are comfortable even if not totally new, but they have a mini fridge which is helpful if you have kids.

Canopy By Hilton Reykjavík

$$$$ I 4 Star I Upscale I Stylish | Central

Just steps from Laugavegur, this hotel is full of art and interesting architecture with a hip lobby and spacious rooms. Room decor features soft, muted colors, hardwood floors, and exquisite linens. Each room has a Nespresso coffee maker and a memory foam bed.

$$+ I 4 Star I Contemporary I Located on Laugavegur

I love how modern this hotel is! Rooms have that Scandinavian chic feel with a mix of elegance. The hotel boasts an unbeatable location on the main street, Laugavegur, and is directly above one of the best bakeries in the city, Sandholt.

The Golden Circle Area

If you ask a local which tour or drive you should take for a taste of Iceland outside of Reykjavík, they will most likely recommend the Golden Circle. It encompasses the three most visited sights in south Iceland, and you just might fall in love with the area and want to stay at the edge of the lake.

Hotels will be a bit more expensive in this popular area. However, it’s also a great place to find a secluded hotel to view the northern lights in the winter !

Travelers will get a slice of Icelandic history at Þingvellir National Park, a view of Iceland’s bubbling geothermal activity at Geysir, and a close-up of the powerful waterfall Gullfoss. The sights are classically Icelandic, postcard-perfect in summer or winter, and close to several excellent hotels.

Why I love the Golden Circle:

• The classic sites of Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir
• Views of the mighty Hekla volcano
• Outdoor activities like hiking, jeep tours, and fishing
• Swimming in the Secret Lagoon

Attractions near the Golden Circle:

• Þingvellir National Park
• Secret Lagoon
• Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouses

Best restaurants in the Golden Circle:

• Geysir Restaurant
• Mjólkurbúið
• Ingólfsskáli Viking Restaurant

Best hotels in the Golden Circle:

Hótel geysir.

$$ I 4 Star I Modern and Chic I Next to Geysir | Families

You can’t stay any closer to the geysers than this! This property features double rooms and suites just across the road from Geysir. The decor’s muted colors blend perfectly with the scenery and the hotel has a very modern feel to it. Visitors have access to an on-site restaurant, spa, and swimming pool.

ION Adventure Hotel

$$$ I 3 Star I Modern | Amazing Views | Geothermal Spa

Located perfectly between Reykjavik and Selfoss, the ION Adventure hotel is one of my favorite hotels. It’s well-designed and inviting. Best of all, you can use the geothermal spa to soak those tired feet after a day of hiking in the Golden Circle.

Frost & Fire Boutique Hotel

$$$ I 3 Star I Quiet Spot | Hot Tub on River

For a secluded stay in the Golden Circle, I can’t recommend this hotel enough. It’s a boutique hotel on a river with hot tubs for that evening soak in the dark and a restaurant onsite. The rooms could be updated a bit. And the northern lights? Yep, you’ll be able to see them here in the winter.

360 Hotel & Thermal Baths

$$$$ I 4 Star I Modern and Cozy I Stunning Views

360 Hotel & Spa offers deluxe rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and breathtaking panoramic views of south Iceland. You’ll have access to the hotel’s thermal baths, which include outdoor and indoor pools with warm geothermal water. There’s also a cold water pool, a sauna room, and massage services.

Reykjanes Peninsula

Want to stay near the airport or Blue Lagoon? The Reykjanes Peninsula is perfect for you, but it’s going to cost. It’s on the southwestern edge of Iceland with volcanic craters, lava fields, bubbling mud pools, and the world-famous Blue Lagoon. The region is also a hotbed for outdoor activities, including horse riding, ATV tours, and hiking.

Every tourist’s journey begins in Reykjanes, as Iceland’s only international airport, Keflavík, is located here. If you arrive in the morning, I highly recommend visiting the Blue Lagoon right away as it’s so close to the airport.

But there’s more to the region than the Blue Lagoon. There are well-maintained hiking trails, majestic sea cliffs with thousands of birds, and the unique landscape of miles of barren lava fields. Some spectacular hotels have opened up in the region in the last few years, so choose from below!

Why I love the Reykjanes Peninsula:

• It’s home to the epic Blue Lagoon
• Numerous hiking trails
• You can cross the Bridge Between Continents
• Horse riding tours

Attractions near the Reykjanes Peninsula:

• Blue Lagoon
• Bridge Between Continents
• Kleifarvatn lake
• Site of the recent eruption at Fagradalsfjall volcano

Best restaurants on the Reykjanes Peninsula:

• Lava Restaurant at the Blue Lagoon
• Moss Restaurant at the Blue Lagoon
• Sjávarsetrið
• Café Bryggjan

Best hotels on the Reykjanes Peninsula:

Silica hotel at the blue lagoon.

$$$+ I 4 Star I Modern I Blue Lagoon I Stunning Views | Couples

Couples love this spot! The Blue Lagoon Silica Hotel is a luxurious hotel connected to the Blue Lagoon. It has bright, airy double rooms and a terrace overlooking the surrounding lava fields. Silica offers luxury beds, modern decor, and beautiful views of the lagoon. You’ll even have access to a private lagoon open daily.

The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon

$$$$ I 5 Star I Luxury at its Best I Blue Lagoon

Also at the Blue Lagoon, The Retreat opened in 2018 to target luxury travelers, so stay here if your budget is big. Suites start at $1,500 per night and overlook the private Retreat Lagoon—a body of water with the same geothermally heated seawater as the Blue Lagoon. With access to spa treatments at a hidden spa and reservations for Moss Restaurant, you’ll love it here.

Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik Keflavik Airport

$$$ I 4 Star I Convenient | Close to Keflavik Airport | Families

This is a convenient option for travelers that want a hotel close to the airport with spacious rooms and numerous amenities. It’s a Marriott, so it’s going to have what you expect. There’s an in-house restaurant and a 24/7 fitness center. Rooms are large with blackout curtains, flat-screen TVs, and mini refrigerators, which makes it helpful for families.

Snæfellsnes

Snæfellsnes is considered the jewel of the western coast of Iceland, in part because the region has a taste of everything. You’ll enjoy mountains, glacier walks on Snæfellsnesjökull, and dramatic black sand beaches and lava fields.

Expect hotels with views of Kirkjufell Mountain and incredible beaches here. It’s ideal for those who want to stay in an almost remote area that isn’t far from Reykjavik. Not to mention it’s perfect for “Game of Thrones” fans.

After the south, Snæfellsnes is probably the most popular region of Iceland to visit. Its proximity to the south and numerous attractions make Snæfellsnes a year-round destination with something for everyone, including charming fishing villages, ample hiking routes, and a very diverse landscape.

Why I love the Snæfellsnes Peninsula:

• Glacier walks on Snæfellsjökull
• Black sand beaches and lava cave tours
• Birdwatching and whale-watching opportunities
• Scenic small towns like Stykkishólmur and Hellissandur

Attractions near the Snæfellsnes Peninsula:

• Snæfellsjökull National Park
• Vatnshellir Lava Cave
• Djúpalónssandur Beach

Best restaurants in Snæfellsnes:

• Sjávarpakkhúsið
• Sker Restaurant
• Narfeyrarstofa

Best hotels in Snæfellsnes:

Hotel búdir.

$$$ I 3 Star I Remote Luxury I Stunning Views

Guests at Hótel Búðir are treated to a comfortable stay with spectacular views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier. The 20-room boutique hotel is exceptionally cozy, featuring rustic rooms with private bathrooms and views of either Snæfellsjökull glacier, the mountains, the ocean, the black church, or vast lava fields.

Fosshotel Stykkisholmur

$$ I 3 Star I Convenient location I Close to the harbor

Fosshotel Stykkishólmur is chic, stylish, and inviting. All rooms are large with comfortable beds and quality linen. The hotel is close to the harbor as well as nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions. This is a great place to stay before you head out to visit the island of Flatey, as it’s close to where the ferry departs early in the morning.

Kirkjufell Hotel

$$ I 3 Star I Close to Kirkufell mountain I Located in Grundarfjörður

Kirkjufell Hotel is in the glorious town of Grundarfjörður on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Close to the striking Kirkjufell mountain (pictured), the hotel boasts a central location and is close to attractions. Room decor is effortless and authentically Scandinavian. Some rooms have stunning views of the mountainous landscape.

In the summer, I highly recommend staying in Iceland’s northern territory! Frequently referred to as Iceland’s “second city,” Akureyri has just 18,000 people! The city has its own personality and looks and feels quite different from Reykjavík—more low-key and relaxed than the capital city. The town has an impressive restaurant scene and first-rate hotels, with a concert hall (Hof) and a scenic harbor.

Many tourists choose Akureyri as their home base when exploring the north. I recommend spending your nights in the town and booking day tours to explore or renting a car to see places like Siglufjörður, Mývatn, and Húsavík. While driving up north can be trickier in the winter, it’s worth a visit for its outdoor activities like skiing, snowmobiling, and even dog-sledding! How fun!

Why I love Akureyri:

• Great restaurants and museums
• The bustling harbor with whale-watching tours and paddleboats
• Proximity to natural sites like Góðafoss
• The relaxing Skógarböðin geothermal baths

Attractions near Akureyri:

• Skógarböðin (Forest Lagoon)
• Hof Cultural Center
• Whale watching

Best restaurants in Akureyri:

• Greifinn Restaurant

Best hotels in Akureyri:

$$ I 4 Star I Central Location I Next to Akureyri church

Hótel Kea–Akureyri has modern amenities and first-class service. The hotel is close to Akureyri Church and features an elegant interior. Expect spacious rooms (great for families), hardwood floors, and big, comfortable beds. The hotel is located just off the main street and is close to Akureyri Art Museum.

Berjaya Iceland Hotels – Akureyri

$$ I 3 Star I Contemporary I Central Location

Berjaya Iceland Hotels—Akureyri is a lovely hotel with Nordic design accents in every corner of the property. The hotel is situated in the center of town and close to museums, shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to spend a couple of nights in Akureyri.

Hotel Akureyri

$$ I 3 Star I Boutique Hotel I Fantastic Restaurant | Close To Town Center

Hótel Akureyri is a boutique hotel spread across four separate properties close to the center of town. All rooms are comfortable and designed with a modern Scandinavian aesthetic. Award-winning Icelandic chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason recently opened his restaurant NORTH at Hótel Akureyri. It’s spectacular. Also, the hotel is close to the harbor and paddleboats are available to rent in the summer.

Höfn, a small fishing town of fewer than 2,000 people in southeast Iceland, really comes alive in the summer. Thousands of travelers make Höfn their base for exploring the southeast, taking glacier walking tours on Vatnajökull glacier, and visiting the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the diamond beach.

It’s an ideal place to stay as you travel the Ring Road , though you’ll have to book early to grab a room. Though there are summer tourists, it’s not overly crowded since it’s not a huge town. That makes it nice for a low-key stop with a view.

There are a few hotels and guesthouses and a handful of restaurants, but it’s a great place to base yourself in the southeast. The winter can be more limiting than the summer. For those who don’t want to drive a rental car, don’t worry, there are numerous guided tours that visit the region.

Why I love Höfn:

• The east is the most unexplored region of Iceland, it feels untouched
• Spending hours at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Ample hiking trails
• The beauty of Vatnajökull National Park

Attractions Near Höfn:

• Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon
• Fjallsárlón
• Diamond Beach
• Vatnajökull Glacier

Best restaurants in Höfn:

• Pakkhús Restaurant
• Fosshotel Vatnajökull Restaurant
• Hafnnarbúðin

Best hotels in Höfn:

Fosshótel vatnajökull.

$$ I 3 Star I Close To Vatnajökull Glacier I Stunning Views

Fosshotel Vatnajökull overlooks Vatnajökull glacier and the surrounding mountains. The view is unbeatable! Rooms are large and tastefully decorated. The in-house restaurant has dynamite food with local langoustines stealing the spotlight!

Berjaya Iceland Hotels – Höfn

$$ I 3 Star I Comfortable | Close To Town

Berjaya Iceland Hotels—Höfn is a chain hotel offering spacious and bright rooms close to the town center. The amenities are good and the rooms are minimalist. It’s very close to Vatnajökull glacier, which covers about 8% of Iceland!

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Tips to travel Iceland on a budget, plus travel expert-approved gear

Where to get local deals, take a dip in a hot spring and more.

Need some summer vacation ideas that won't break the bank? "Good Morning America" is off to Iceland and packing expert tips to help create the perfect travel bucket list on a budget.

From free dips in hot springs to the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall, ABC News' Ashan Singh explored the Nordic island nation and shared the top ways to enjoy every stop of the trip without overspending.

"Iceland is a tremendous deal from the Boston area in particular -- flights are only about five hours in each direction -- you could take just a long weekend there and still get an action-packed trip," Eric Rosen director of travel content for The Points Guy, told "GMA."

TPG has seen deals for as low as $400 and for travelers who don't care where they're seated on the plane, some fares drop as low as $230.

When it comes to hotels, Rosen offered another simple tip, spend now on credit cards from brands like Hilton or Marriott that, once the spending threshold is reached, offer large bonus points.

"Hilton cards for instance, offer anywhere from 130 to 180,000 points typically as part of their bonus," he said. "And that's going to be good enough for two maybe even three nights at some of these hotels in Reykjavik. And that could be your whole trip right there."

Iceland activities on a budget

Get a taste of the city's culture with the Reykjavík City Card, which gives visitors access to multiple museums, art galleries, pools and even bus transportation for free.

Enjoy going home with a fashionable souvenir? Local knits are quintessentially Iceland, but with handmade sweaters priced up to $500, Singh sought out second hand store, Extraloppan to score a sweater as low as $50.

Rent a car. Singh found deals for as low as $86 a day.

Save on a more extravagant meal by finding a deal through the Dineout Iceland app, which for a small fee offers discounts all over the land of fire and ice.

Looking for a cheap and quick local bite? Try a roadside hot dog for just $4.

Visit the free National Parks and take in sights like waterfalls and geysers, but Singh suggests skipping the Blue Lagoon, which can cost $350 for a family of four, instead opt for taking a dip in a local, free hot spring.

Editor’s Picks

Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

It's not too late to book summer travel deals, these expert tips make it easier

Google reveals top destinations for summer vacation 2024

Expert recommended travel gear.

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Lonely Planet Iceland (Travel Guide)

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45 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Iceland

Posted: February 15, 2024 | Last updated: February 15, 2024

Iceland, the stunning Nordic gem, known for its beautiful lagoons, waterfalls, and their magnificent night sky.

But did you know that there’s no McDonald’s in Iceland? Or that pretty much the entire country is on a first-name basis?

Here are 45 weird and interesting things you should know about Iceland, The Land of Fire and Ice .

Iceland is One of the Last Countries to Have Human Settlers

Iceland is one of the last counties in the world to have human settlers. It was still uninhabited long after the rest of Western Europe had been settled.

Iceland Had the First Parliament

Iceland has one of the oldest known parliaments in human history.

Dating all the way back to the year 930, the first national parliament was founded in Thingvellir—which is now a national park.

Iceland Has a Low Population

Iceland’s population is only about 350,000 —which is around 1/10th of the population of San Francisco.

They have about 8 people per square mile, with Reykjavik housing roughly one-third of the country’s entire population.

There is No Standing Army in Iceland

Iceland is known to be a fairly laid-back country with minimal unlawful activity going on—thankfully, because is it the only NATO country to not have a standing army, air force or navy.

It does have a small Crisis Response Unit (ICRU), but the staff do not carry arms or wear a uniform in most circumstances.

There is No McDonalds in Iceland

At one time, Big Macs were available—until the financial crash in 2008. Imported ingredients were hard to come by and prices soared leading to the shut down of all McDonalds restaurants in the country (which weren’t very many to begin with).

Even after things seemingly got better, Iceland chose to keep McDonalds outside their borders.

Iceland is a Free Country

Iceland is known as one of the freest countries in the world. It was ranked 4th in the 2019 Index of Economical Freedom, with high rankings for “labor freedom” and “government integrity”.

The country ranked 3rd in the world in a Personal Freedom chart by the Legatum Prosperity Index.

Iceland Has a Celebratory Brew Day

Back in 1908, Iceland voted on an alcohol ban—but that didn’t stick around because it started to affect their import/export business. So, instead, they put the ban on beer only.

The beer ban stuck around for 74 years, finally being squashed in 1989. The country now celebrates “ Beer Day”, on March 1st.

Iceland Had the First Female President

Vigdís Finnbogadóttir is an Icelandic politician who served as the fourth president of Iceland from 1980 to 1996. Vigdís is the first woman in the world to be democratically elected as president.

Iceland Has the Largest Glacier in Europe

Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Europe . It covers over 8100 square kilometers and has around 30 outlet glaciers.

Iceland Has a Naming Committee

Iceland has a naming committee that approves or declines people’s names. There is an official register of approved Icelandic given names, and specific names that are not allowed.

For example, the letter C is not included in the Icelandic alphabet, so any name that begins with that letter is not allowed.

Iceland Has the Purest Water

Almost all of the water in Iceland is pure, refreshing and you can drink it from any and every tap in the country. There is no need for water purifiers, and bottled water is not regularly purchased or consumed by Icelanders, as there is no need.

The tap water is pure, and free!

Iceland Was Named After Its Landscape

Its fairly obvious where Iceland got its name—the ice. Over 10% of country is covered in glaciers. In total, there are about 269 recognized glaciers in Iceland.

You Can Swim Outdoors All Year Round

Even though it is almost always cold in Iceland, you can swim outdoors at any time of the year. This is because there are natural geothermal swimming pools —and there is one in nearly every town in the country.

Geothermal swimming pools are hot springs where the water temperature varies between warm and fairly hot, depending on its location.

Icelanders Favorite Snacks

This may not be true for all Icelanders, but it is a common belief that the most popular snacks in Iceland are ice cream and black licorice.

There is a historical reason for this: the first settlers did not have sugar or honey, so they used licorice root as a sweetener. The flavor stuck, and it is now in all sorts of candy and snacks around the country.

Iceland Has No Dangerous Wildlife

Due to its climate, it’s no surprise that Iceland has almost no dangerous wildlife. There are no snakes, bears, mosquitos, or poisonous bugs in the entire country.

The most dangerous animal would be polar bears—but they are typically far from city life and pose very minimal threat to humans.

There Are No Trains in Iceland

There are no trains or railway system in Iceland. The only way to get in and out of the country are by air and sea. Travel from one city to another is typically by bus or domestic flight.

Iceland is Home to Global Beauties

Even with Iceland’s fairly small population, they still took the crown in several Miss World competitions. It is one of the most successful countries at the Miss World pageant with three victories.

Iceland Holds a Record for Published Books

Icelanders publish more books per capita than any other nation in the world. They even have a book-giving holiday – Jolabokaflod – on Christmas Eve.

Iceland Has a Phallological Museum

This museum is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. It is the world only genuine “manhood” museum.

According to its website, The Icelandic Phallological Museum, is “dedicated to collecting, studying and presenting actual phalluses and all things phallic.”

It’s complete with bistro that serves penile shaped food, and a gift shop with all things penile.

Iceland Has One Seriously Long Word

The longest word found in the Icelandic language is: vaðlaheiðarvegavinnuverkfærageymsluskúraútidyralyklakippuhringur. 

It word refers to, “the key ring to the tool work shed in the road works of Vaðlaheiði”. It is often been considered a joke, but road workers maintain that the word refers to the actual key ring for the shed they use.

Babies Nap Outside in Iceland

From infancy to about 2 years old, Icelandic children sleep outside in baby carriages for their noon nap. This is on the belief that fresh air is imperative for a good sleep, and child development.

It also builds trust, as babies are left alone, and promotes openness.

Icelanders Can Easily Trace Their Heritage

All Icelanders can access a website called Íslendingabók to trace their heritage back to the Vikings and even see how they are related to other Icelanders.

Typically, the question is not if they are related, it is how much they are related.

Icelanders Are on a First Name Basis

Icelanders always address each other by their first names. This is the same for all  Icelanders, even if they might be speaking to the president. Their culture is very laid back.

Icelandic Horses Are Unique

Icelandic horses have a unique gait—referred to as tölt—and have not been mixed with other breeds for over 1,000 years.

Iceland Has a Midnight Sun

The Midnight Sun is an annual occurrence taking place from June to July. This means you can witness light for 24 hours a day during that one-month period.

Men Are Commonly Named After Elves

Traditionally, a lot of male Icelanders were named “Alfur”, which translates to “Elf”. This dates back to their early beliefs about elves—having some sort of control over good and bad things that happen to the community.

Female Clubs Are Banned in Iceland

Clubs where women typically take off their clothing are completely banned in Iceland, specifically “all businesses that profit off unclothed employees”.

Local Authorities Are Unarmed in Iceland

Given that the country is known as one of the safest countries in the world, the local authorities do not feel it is necessary to bare arms.

Most unlawful activity in Iceland is not dangerous and authorities are able to do their job without using force.

The Northern Lights in Iceland Are Different

The Northern Lights you typically see from most parts are the globe are usually green with some yellow. But the Northern lights you witness in Iceland shows stunning hues of red, purple and pink.

This is due to altitude.

Earthquakes and Volcanoes Are Common in Iceland

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are fairly common in Iceland. So, the locals are trained to react appropriately from a young age. Their homes are built with this in mind, and children are taught not to overreact to common rumbles and vibrations.

Iceland Only Has One Native Mammal

The Arctic fox is the only species of land mammal native to Iceland.

It apparently survived on the island through the last ice age and stuck around once the thick glacial ice receded.

Iceland Sits on Two Tectonic Plates

Iceland sits on the meeting of two tectonic plates, one is the North American plate and the other is the Eurasian plate.

It is also the only place in the world  where you can snorkel between two tectonic plates.

Iceland’s Airport Sits in a Lava Field

Iceland only has one international airport, and it sits in the middle of a lava field. In fact, a volcano in the area has erupted several times, sometimes twice in one year.

Aside from a 2010 eruption that led to widespread airspace closures in Europe, the erupting volcano doesn’t seem to affect air travel.

Many Waterfalls in Iceland Have No Names

There are so many stunning waterfalls in Iceland—many that are actually quite popular among tourists. However, because they are a common sight to see, many of them are not officially named.

The Icelandic Language is Unique

The Icelandic language is so unique that there are numerous words that do not have any direct English translation. They also have many Icelandic words for one English word, such as “wind”.

Given the county’s isolation, Icelandic is one of the smallest “nation-state” languages in the world.

Iceland Ranks High in Equality

Iceland was once voted the best place for women to live. This is because women’s equality is literally protected by law.

The Act on Equal Status and Equal Rights of Women and Men is the reason gender equality is a hallmark of Icelandic culture.

Iceland's Seasons Are Drastically Different

Iceland is a beautiful place to visit all year round, however the best time to travel depends on what you plan to see.

While winter is better for exploring glaciers and seeing the northern lights, summer is better for swimming in geothermal pools and going on long hikes through lava fields.

Iceland Was the First Country to Have an Openly Gay Prime Minister

Iceland has a president, who is the head of state, and a prime minister who serves as the head of government in a multi-party system.

Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir became Prime Minister in 2009, and was Iceland's first female Prime Minister and the world's first openly LGBT head of government .

Iceland Has Several Different Species of Whales

Iceland has more than 20 different species of whales that can be found swimming in the sea around the island.

There Were No Dinosaurs in Iceland

No dinosaur bones have ever been found in Iceland as the land mass is only about 20 million years old. The last of the giant dinosaurs died out 66 million years ago.

Iceland Has Universal Healthcare

Iceland has a universal healthcare system (which is paid for via taxes), and does not have any private hospitals on the island.

Everyone is entitled to emergency medical assistance covered by Icelandic Health Insurance (IHI).

Iceland Has Religious Freedom

Freedom of religion in Iceland is guaranteed by the 64th article of the Constitution of Iceland.

Although, it also states that the Evangelical Lutheran Church shall be the national church (þjóðkirkja) and the national curriculum places emphasis on Christian studies, the constitution still protects the right to form other religious associations.

Iceland is Expensive

Iceland is the eighth most expensive country in the world with a cost of living 15.8% higher than the US, according to Numbeo's global cost of living index.

The country has fairly high costs of food, housing and transportation, and they also have a limited job market, particularly for foreigners.

Icelanders Love Sauce

This may not be true for all, but it is said that Icelanders love their sauce. Apparently, they enjoy covering their food in all kinds of sauces, but mostly gravy and bearnaise sauce.

They have a sauce for everything—even ice cream!

Icelanders Enjoy Being Unclothed

As with many European cultures, unclothed Icelanders is not an uncommon sight, in fact, it is quite normal.

It is common to shower, without swim suits, prior to swimming in the public geothermal pools in order to keep them clean. Icelanders are typically not shy and will bare all to whomever is around at the time.

Final Thoughts

While Iceland is a relatively cold climate, it remains one of the best countries to live in. While it may be an expensive country to reside, Icelanders are one of the happiest cultures who take pride in equality and love their sauces.

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Money blog: Loud budgeting - the taboo-busting money hack you can do without giving up daily coffee

Created accidentally by a comedian, "loud budgeting" is breaking down the taboo of speaking about money. Read this and the rest of our Weekend Money features, and leave a comment, and we'll be back with rolling personal finance and consumer news on Monday.

Sunday 12 May 2024 08:58, UK

Weekend Money

• 'Loud budgeting': The money-saving trend that has nothing to do with giving up your daily coffee
• What is most in-demand period property?
• £12m tea advert, downsizing, £320 tasting menus and job interview mistakes: What readers have said this week
• Free childcare applications about to open for new age band
• Where has huge week for UK economy left us?

Best of the week

• How to avoid a holiday data roaming charge (while still using the internet)
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Ask a question or make a comment

From Sunday, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old in England will be able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

This will then be granted from September. 

Check if you're eligible  here  - or read on for our explainer on free childcare across the UK.

Three and four year olds

In England, all parents of children aged three and four in England can claim 15 hours of free childcare per week, for 1,140 hours (38 weeks) a year, at an approved provider.

This is a universal offer open to all.

It can be extended to 30 hours where both parents (or the sole parent) are in work, earn the weekly minimum equivalent of 16 hours at the national minimum or living wage, and have an income of less than £100,000 per year.

Two year olds

Previously, only parents in receipt of certain benefits were eligible for 15 hours of free childcare.

But, as of last month, this was extended to working parents.

This is not a universal offer, however.

A working parent must earn more than £8,670 but less than £100,000 per year. For couples, the rule applies to both parents.

Nine months old

In September, this same 15-hour offer will be extended to working parents of children aged from nine months. From 12 May, those whose children will be at least nine months old on 31 August can apply to received the 15 hours of care from September.

From September 2025

The final change to the childcare offer in England will be rolled out in September 2025, when eligible working parents of all children under the age of five will be able to claim 30 hours of free childcare a week.

In some areas of Wales, the Flying Start early years programme offers 12.5 hours of free childcare for 39 weeks, for eligible children aged two to three. The scheme is based on your postcode area, though it is currently being expanded.

All three and four-year-olds are entitled to free early education of 10 hours per week in approved settings during term time under the Welsh government's childcare offer.

Some children of this age are entitled to up to 30 hours per week of free early education and childcare over 48 weeks of the year. The hours can be split - but at least 10 need to be used on early education.

To qualify for this, each parent must earn less than £100,000 per year, be employed and earn at least the equivalent of working 16 hours a week at the national minimum wage, or be enrolled on an undergraduate, postgraduate or further education course that is at least 10 weeks in length.

All three and four-year-olds living in Scotland are entitled to at least 1,140 hours per year of free childcare, with no work or earnings requirements for parents. 

This is usually taken as 30 hours per week over term time (38 weeks), though each provider will have their own approach.

Some households can claim free childcare for two-year-olds. To be eligible you have to be claiming certain benefits such as Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance or Universal Credit, or have a child that is in the care of their local council or living with you under a guardianship order or kinship care order.

Northern Ireland

There is no scheme for free childcare in Northern Ireland. Some other limited support is available.

Working parents can access support from UK-wide schemes such as tax credits, Universal Credit, childcare vouchers and tax-free childcare.

Aside from this, all parents of children aged three or four can apply for at least 12.5 hours a week of funded pre-school education during term time. But over 90% of three-year-olds have a funded pre-school place - and of course this is different to childcare.

What other help could I be eligible for?

Tax-free childcare  - Working parents in the UK can claim up to £500 every three months (up to £2,000 a year) for each of their children to help with childcare costs. 

If the child is disabled, the amount goes up to £1,000 every three months (up to £4,000 a year).

To claim the benefit, parents will need to open a tax-free childcare account online. For every 80p paid into the account, the government will top it up by 20p.

The scheme is available until the September after the child turns 11.

Universal credit  - Working families on universal credit can claim back up to 85% of their monthly childcare costs, as long as the care is paid for upfront. The most you can claim per month is £951 for one child or £1,630 for two or more children.

Tax credits -  People claiming working tax credit can get up to 70% of what they pay for childcare if their costs are no more than £175 per week for one child or £300 per work for multiple children.

By Jess Sharp , Money team 

Money saving trends are constantly popping up on social media - but one in particular has been gaining huge amounts of attention.

Created accidentally by a comedian, loud budgeting is breaking down the taboo of speaking about money.

The idea is based on being firmer/more vocal about your financial boundaries in social situations and setting out what you are happy to spend your money on, instead of "Keeping up with the Joneses". 

On TikTok alone, videos published under the hashtag #loudbudgeting have garnered more than 30 million views - and that figure is continuing to climb. 

We spoke to Lukas Battle - the 26-year-old who unintentionally created the trend as part of a comedy sketch. 

Based in New York, he came up with the term in a skit about the "quiet luxury" hype, which had spread online in 2023 inspired by shows like Succession. 

The term was used for humble bragging about your wealth with expensive items that were subtle in their design - for example, Gwyneth Paltrow's  £3,900 moss green wool coat from The Row, which she wore during her ski resort trial...

"I was never a big fan of the quiet luxury trend, so I just kind of switched the words and wrote 'loud budgeting is in'. I'm tired of spending money and I don't want to pretend to be rich," Lukas said. 

"That's how it started and then the TikTok comments were just obsessed with that original idea." 

This was the first time he mentioned it...

Lukas explained that it wasn't about "being poor" but about not being afraid of sharing your financial limits and "what's profitable for you personally". 

"It's not 'skip a coffee a day and you'll become a millionaire'."

While talking money has been seen as rude or taboo, he said it's something his generation is more comfortable doing. 

"I've seen more debate around the topic and I think people are really intrigued and attracted by the idea," he said. 

"It's just focusing your spending and time on things you enjoy and cutting out the things you might feel pressured to spend your money on."  

He has incorporated loud budgeting into his own life, telling his friends "it's free to go outside" and opting for cheaper dinner alternatives.

"Having the terminology and knowing it's a trend helps people understand it and there's no awkward conversation around it," he said. 

The trend has been a big hit with so-called American "finfluencers", or "financial influencers", but people in the UK have started practising it as well. 

Mia Westrap has taken up loud budgeting by embarking on a no-buy year and sharing her finances with her 11.3k TikTok followers. 

Earning roughly £2,100 a month, she spends around £1,200 on essentials, like rent, petrol and car insurance, but limits what else she can purchase. 

Clothes, fizzy drinks, beauty treatments, makeup, dinners out and train tickets are just some things on her "red list". 

The 26-year-old PHD student first came across the idea back in 2017, but decided to take up the challenge this year after realising she was living "pay check to pay check". 

She said her "biggest fear" in the beginning was that her friends wouldn't understand what she was doing, but she found loud budgeting helped. 

"I'm still trying my best to just go along with what everyone wants to do but I just won't spend money while we do it and my friends don't mind that, we don't make a big deal out of it," she said. 

So far, she has been able to save £1,700, and she said talking openly about her money has been "really helpful". 

"There's no way I could have got this far if I wasn't baring my soul to the internet about the money I have spent. It has been a really motivating factor."

Financial expert John Webb said loud budgeting has the ability to help many "feel empowered" and create a "more realistic" relationship with money.

"This is helping to normalise having open and honest conversations about finances," the consumer affair manager at Experien said. 

"It can also reduce the anxiety some might have by keeping their financial worries to themselves." 

However, he warned it's important to be cautious and to take the reality of life into consideration. 

"It could cause troubles within friendship groups if they're not on the same page as you or have different financial goals," he said.

"This challenge isn't meant to stop you from having fun, but it is designed to help people become more conscious and intentional when it comes to money, and reduce the stigma around talking about it." 

Rightmove's keyword tool shows Victorian-era houses are the most commonly searched period properties, with people drawn to their ornate designs and features.

Georgian and Edwardian-style are second and third respectively, followed by Tudor properties. Regency ranked in fifth place.

Rightmove property expert Tim Bannister said: "Home hunters continue to be captivated by the character and charm of properties that we see in period dramas.

"Victorian homes remain particularly popular, characterised by their historic charm, solid construction, and spacious interiors. You'll often find Victorian houses in some of the most desirable locations which include convenient access to schools and transport links."

Throughout the week Money blog readers have shared their thoughts on the stories we've been covering, with the most correspondence coming in on...

• A hotly contested debate on the best brand of tea
• Downsizing homes
• The cost of Michelin-starred food

Job interview mistakes

On Wednesday we reported on a new £12m ad from PG Tips in response to it falling behind rivals such as Twinings, Yorkshire Tea and Tetley....

We had lots of comments like this...

How on earth was the PG Tips advert so expensive? I prefer Tetley tea, PG Tips is never strong enough flavour for me. Shellyleppard

The reason for the sales drop with PG Tips could be because they increased the price and reduced the quantity of bags from 240 to 180 - it's obvious. Royston

And then this question which we've tried to answer below...

Why have PG Tips changed from Pyramid shape tea bags, to a square? Sam

Last year PG Tips said it was changing to a square bag that left more room for leaves to infuse, as the bags wouldn't fold over themselves.

We reported on data showing how downsizing could save you money for retirement - more than £400,000, in some regions, by swapping four beds for two.

Some of our readers shared their experiences...

We are downsizing and moving South so it's costing us £100k extra for a smaller place, all money from retirement fund. AlanNorth

Interesting read about downsizing for retirement. We recently did this to have the means to retire early at 52. However, we bought a house in the south of France for the price of a flat in our town in West Sussex. Now living the dream! OliSarah

How much should we pay for food?

Executive chef at London's two-Michelin-starred Ikoyi, Jeremy Chan, raised eyebrows when he suggested to the Money blog that Britons don't pay enough for restaurant food.

Ikoyi, the 35th best restaurant in the world, charges £320 for its tasting menu. 

"I don't think people pay enough money for food, I think we charge too little, [but] we want to always be accessible to as many people as possible, we're always trying our best to do that," he said, in a piece about his restaurant's tie up with Uber Eats... 

We had this in... 

Are they serious? That is two weeks' worth of food shopping for me, if the rich can afford this "tasting menu" then they need to be taxed even more by the government, it's just crazy! Steve T

If the rate of pay is proportionate to the vastly overpriced costs of the double Michelin star menu, I would gladly peel quail eggs for four-hour stints over continuing to be abused as a UK supply teacher. AndrewWard

Does this two-star Michelin star chef live in the real world? Who gives a toss if he stands and peels his quails eggs for four hours, and he can get the best turbot from the fishmonger fresh on a daily basis? It doesn't justify the outrageous price he is charging for his tasting menu. Topaztraveller

Chefs do make me laugh, a steak is just a steak, they don't make the meat! They just cook it like the rest of us, but we eat out because we can't be bothered cooking! StevieGrah

Finally, many of you reacted to this feature on common mistakes in job interviews...

Those 10 biggest mistakes people make in interviews is the dumbest thing I've ever read. They expect all that and they'll be offering a £25k a year job. Why wouldn't I want to know about benefits and basic sick pay? And also a limp handshake? How's that relevant to how you work? Jre90

Others brought their own tips...

Whenever I go for an interview I stick to three points: 1. Be yourself 2. Own the interview 3. Wear the clothes that match the job you are applying Kevin James Blakey

Two big economic moments dominated the news agenda in Money this week - interest rates and GDP.

As expected, the Bank of England held the base rate at 5.25% on Wednesday - but a shift in language was instructive about what may happen next.

Bank governor Andrew Bailey opened the door to a summer cut to 5%, telling reporters that an easing of rates at the next Monetary Policy Committee meeting on 20 June was neither ruled out nor a fait accompli.

More surprisingly, he suggested that rate cuts, when they start, could go deeper "than currently priced into market rates".

He refused to be drawn on what that path might look like - but markets had thought rates could bottom out at 4.5% or 4.75% this year, and potentially 3.5% or 4% next.

"To make sure that inflation stays around the 2% target - that inflation will neither be too high nor too low - it's likely that we will need to cut Bank rate over the coming quarters and make monetary policy somewhat less restrictive over the forecast period," Mr Bailey said.

You can read economics editor Ed Conway's analysis of the Bank's decision here ...

On Friday we discovered the UK is no longer in recession.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.6% between January and March, the Office for National Statistics said.

This followed two consecutive quarters of the economy shrinking.

The data was more positive than anticipated.

"Britain is not just out of recession," wrote Conway. "It is out of recession with a bang."

The UK has seen its fastest growth since the tailend of the pandemic - and Conway picked out three other reasons for optimism.

1/ An economic growth rate of 0.6% is near enough to what economists used to call "trend growth". It's the kind of number that signifies the economy growing at more or less "normal" rates.

2/ 0.6% means the UK is, alongside Canada, the fastest-growing economy in the G7 (we've yet to hear from Japan, but economists expect its economy to contract in the first quarter).

3/ Third, it's not just gross domestic product that's up. So too is gross domestic product per head - the number you get when you divide our national income by every person in the country. After seven years without any growth, GDP per head rose by 0.4% in the first quarter.

GDP per head is a more accurate yardstick for the "feelgood factor", said Conway - perhaps meaning people will finally start to feel better off.

For more on where Friday's figures leaves us, listen to an Ian King Business Podcast special...

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money .

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

If you've missed any of the features we've been running in Money this year, or want to check back on something you've previously seen in the blog, this archive of our most popular articles may help...

Loaves of bread have been recalled from shelves in Japan after they were found to contain the remains of a rat.

Production of the bread in Tokyo has been halted after parts of a "small animal" were found by at least two people.

Pasco Shikishima Corp, which produces the bread, said 104,000 packages have been recalled as it apologised and promised compensation.

A company representative told Sky News's US partner network, NBC News, that a "small black rat" was found in the bread. No customers were reported to have fallen ill as a result of ingesting the contaminated bread.

"We deeply apologise for the serious inconvenience and trouble this has caused to our customers, suppliers, and other concerned parties," the spokesman said.

Pasco added in a separate statement that "we will do our utmost to strengthen our quality controls so that this will never happen again. We ask for your understanding and your co-operation."

Japanese media reports said at least two people who bought the bread in the Gunma prefecture, north-west of Tokyo, complained to the company about finding a rodent in the bread.

Record levels of shoplifting appear to be declining as fewer shopkeepers reported thefts last year, new figures show. 

A survey by the Office for National Statistics shows 26% of retailers experienced customer theft in 2023, down from a record high of 28% in 2022.

This comes despite a number of reports suggesting shoplifting is becoming more frequent. 

A  separate ONS finding , which used police crime data, showed reports of shoplifting were at their highest level in 20 years in 2023, with law enforcements logging 430,000 instances of the crime.

Let's get you up to speed on the biggest business news of the past 24 hours. 

A privately owned used-car platform is circling Cazoo Group, its stricken US-listed rival, which is on the brink of administration.

Sky News has learnt that Motors.co.uk is a leading contender to acquire Cazoo's marketplace operation, which would include its brand and intellectual property assets.

The process to auction the used-car platform's constituent parts comes after it spent tens of millions of pounds on sponsorship deals in football, snooker and darts in a rapid attempt to gain market share.

The owner of British Airways has reported a sharp rise in profits amid soaring demand for trips and a fall in the cost of fuel.

International Airlines Group said its operating profit for the first three months of the year was €68m (£58.5m) - above expectations and up from €9m (£7.7m) during the same period in 2023.

The company, which also owns Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling, said earnings had soared thanks to strong demand, particularly over the Easter holidays.

The prospect of a strike across Tata Steel's UK operations has gained further traction after a key union secured support for industrial action.

Community, which has more than 3,000 members, said 85% voted in favour of fighting the India-owned company's plans for up to 2,800 job losses, the majority of them at the country's biggest steelworks in Port Talbot, South Wales.

Tata confirmed last month it was to press ahead with the closure of the blast furnaces at the plant, replacing them with electric arc furnaces to reduce emissions and costs.

In doing so, the company rejected an alternative plan put forward by the Community, GMB and Unite unions that, they said, would raise productivity and protect jobs across the supply chain.

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