iceland places to travel

25 Absolute-Best Places to Visit in Iceland (+Things to Do & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2024

There is so much written about Iceland that it can get really overwhelming to figure out where exactly to go and what are the best places to visit in Iceland . In this article, we cover some of the most popular areas but also some lesser-known places that I think are worth visiting in Iceland the most. Find out!

Good to know: This article with top things to do in Iceland was initially published after our second trip to Iceland. In the meantime, we have visited Iceland 6 times, and so it was time to update it. I’ve now been to Iceland in all seasons and traveled in pretty much all regions. While there is still so much more to be explored, I feel that I can now give you a much better idea of the best areas to visit and the very best places to see in Iceland.

While the list now contains more than the initial top 10 places, it does not list every single attraction or landmark separately. We also didn’t include all the details about everything that you can do in Iceland.

The aim of this article is to give you an overview of the most beautiful areas, the best things to do, and the nicest places in Iceland that are worth visiting the most . So that you have a good idea of where to travel in Iceland without getting too overwhelmed with all the details.

BEST OF ICELAND IN A NUTSHELL: * MUST-SEE:  South Coast, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Golden Circle, Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes Peninsula. * MUST DO: Blue Lagoon  and/or  Sky Lagoon (book well ahead!!!). * FUN TO DO: Glacier hiking ,  whale watching ,  Silfra snorkeling . * WINTER:   Ice caves  and  Northern lights . * MUST TRY: Icelandic hot dog ( pylsur ), Skyr, lamb, fish stew ( plokkfiskur ). * WHERE TO STAY:   Where to stay in Iceland  –  Where to stay in Reykjavik  –  Where to stay in Snaefellsnes Peninsula .

TIP: If you are looking for more information about each area mentioned in our guide below, please make sure to read the more detailed articles that we link to from this post. If you are looking for ideas on how to plan your trip and day-by-day itinerary suggestions, please check our guides below:

• 4-day South Coast itinerary .
• 7-day winter itinerary .
• One-week Iceland itinerary for summer months .
• Iceland Ring Road itinerary in 10 days .
• Iceland itineraries for any duration (1-14 Days) .

Without further ado, here is a list of the best places to visit in Iceland :

1. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is not coincidentally the first one mentioned on this list. If there is one place that you really don’t want to miss in Iceland, then it’s Jokulsarlon.

The glacier lagoon is just amazing and the scenery changes all the time. Icebergs move all the time and no two visits are ever the same. In addition to the lagoon itself, you should also visit the so-called Diamond Beach , just across the road. When the weather conditions are favorable, you can see the most extraordinary ice formations scattered all over the beach. Shining in the sunlight like huge diamonds…

For me, this beach is even more special than the lagoon itself. Especially on a sunny winter day or at sunset. Magical!

TIP: You may want to check out the nearby Fjalljökull glacial lagoon as well. It’s smaller and less touristic than Jökulsárlón, and it’s very nice too. Nearby Stokksnes headland is also well worth a visit.

How to visit: You can see the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon from ashore, or take a boat tour (May-Oct) between the icebergs. You can choose between an amphibian boat or a zodiac tour.

2. South Coast – Vík Beaches

Iceland’s South Coast is one of the most visited areas in the country and rightly so. This area is simply stunning!

The picturesque village of Vik and the nearby Reynisfjara beach and the impressive coastline are well worth it in any season. Vik black sand beach was once ranked as one of the ten most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world.

TIP: Don’t miss the nearby Dyrhólaey Lighthouse and the stunning rock formations visible from there.

How to visit: There are several parking areas along the coast near Vik. You’ll need a car to get here. Alternatively, you can visit with a South Coast tour from Reykjavik .

Important! Be VERY careful on this beach – the waves here are unpredictable and it’s very dangerous to walk close to the water. Even if the water looks calm, stay as far away as you can. Under no circumstances go into the sea at Reynisfjara beach!

LEARN MORE : Best Stops & Attractions of Iceland’s South Coast

3. Golden Circle

By far the most popular place to visit in Iceland is the so-called Golden Circle . The Golden Circle, formerly also known as the Golden Triangle, refers to three main locations – Thingvellir National Park , Gullfoss waterfall , and Geysir area with a very active Strokkur geyser.

Thingvellir National Park is best known for its continental divide, the Mid Atlantic Ridge. It’s a place where you can see the opening between the tectonic plates of Europe and North America. It’s a beautiful area to explore on foot. Don’t miss the somewhat hidden Öxarárfoss waterfall.

Gullfoss , or The Golden Waterfall, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Must see!

You just cannot go to Iceland and not see a geyser erupt! Geysir area is a geothermal area where the mother of all geysers – Geysir – is located. While Geysir hasn’t been active in a long time, there is a smaller geyser called Strokkur that erupts at regular intervals every 5-10 minutes. So you never have to wait long in order to see it.

TIP: While extremely touristy, the Golden Circle is popular for a reason. If you can, visit early in the morning or late in the evening in order to avoid the biggest crowds.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to explore the Golden Circle. Alternatively, there are lots of organized Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik .

4. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Somewhat lesser visited than the previously mentioned places, Snæfellsnes Peninsula is another region that you really should see in Iceland. This is one of the places that you can quite easily in all seasons.

Best known for its picturesque Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, this area has so much more to offer than that! Volcanic landscapes, rugged coastlines, stunning rock formations, countless waterfalls, beautiful beaches, colorful lighthouses, quaint little villages, and tiny picturesque churches… These are just a few of the reasons to visit Snaefellsnes.

TIP: If you are visiting in summer and have the time, I recommend at least 2 days for this area.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get around. Alternatively, join one of the guided Snaefellsnes day tours from Reykjavik .

LEARN MORE: Complete Guide to Snaefellsnes Best Things to Do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula

5. Blue Lagoon & Sky Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction and is considered the no. 1 must-visit place in Iceland. It’s a huge outdoor geothermal pool with a distinctive blue or milky blue color and nice warm temperatures.

Good to know: Blue Lagoon is extremely popular so it’s essential to reserve your tickets in advance. You can book tickets here .

How to visit: Blue Lagoon is located close to Reykjavik KEF airport and you can either get there by car or by taking a Blue Lagoon bus transfer from Reykjavik . It takes about an hour to get there from the city and you will probably spend at least 2 hours in the water, so count at least 4 hours for your visit.

TIP: You can also visit the Blue Lagoon on your way to or from the airport. Bus transfers are available for Keflavik airport as well (see the link above).

Alternative: Instead of Blue Lagoon (or in addition to), you may want to visit the amazing geothermal pool Sky Lagoon . It’s been opened a few years ago and has quickly become a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

Sky Lagoon is located in Reykjavik, much closer to town, and offers amazing sea views and a unique Spa ritual. You can reserve your tickets here (also here, you really have to book in advance!).

6. Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls

After Gullfoss, these are the most visited waterfalls in Iceland. Located along the South Coast, both – Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss – are among the must-see landmarks in Iceland.

Skogafoss is a really majestic waterfall. It’s so photogenic that if you ever see pictures of a waterfall in Iceland, it’s most likely to be Skogafoss. You can also climb the stairs all the way to the top of the waterfall for some great views of the area.

Seljalandsfoss is the only Icelandic waterfall that I know of where you can walk behind the falling water. In the winter, the waterfall is partially frozen and the whole area around it looks like an ice skating rink, so the walk behind it is usually closed. It’s still nice to see and worth a short stop. But it’s most magical when you can walk behind this waterfall and experience how special this place is. Prepare to get wet!

TIP: Don’t miss the hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall located inside the gorge just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss. It takes just a few minutes to visit – follow the path to the left from Seljalandsfoss and you’ll see informational panels on the right side.

Myvatn Lake in the North of Iceland is another place you really should visit in Iceland. This area is very diverse and has a lot to offer, especially in the warmer season.

Here are some of the best things to do at Myvatn: a walk to the caldera of Krafla volcano and the lava fields, short walk to the pseudocraters at Myvatn Lake , Leirhnjukur hiking trail, Dimmuborgir area of remarkable lava formations and the 45-minute walk to Kirkjan lava tube structure.

Námaskarð geothermal area is also a must-see in North Iceland! It’s an easily reachable compact area with bubbling mud pools and colorful steaming geothermal features. You have to prepare for the smell though.

Myvatn Nature Baths are also not to be missed. This geothermal pool offers beautiful views, and it’s less busy and cheaper than the Blue Lagoon. However, it’s changed a lot in recent years, and so if you travel here in summer, expect it to be very busy. You may want to book your tickets in advance here too!

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get to Myvatn. If you are stopping in Akureyri on a cruise ship, you can visit Myvatn with this popular shore excursion .

LEARN MORE: Things to Do in Myvatn

8. Húsavík

Known as the best place to see whales in Iceland , Húsavík definitely deserves a mention as one of the best places to visit in Iceland as well. If you are visiting Northern Iceland in summer, whale watching in Husavik is a must.

The town is very picturesque too and you can visit the Húsavík Whale Museum .

GeoSea – geothermal sea baths are also very popular and boast stunning sea views. It’s one of the most scenic pools in Iceland.

TIP: There are many whale watching tours that run from Husavik , but they’re extremely popular and have to be booked in advance. One of the best options I always hear people mention is this tour with Gentle Giants .

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get to Husavik.

9. Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel

Located just a short drive from Reykjavik, Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel is one of the most unique places to visit in Iceland.

This underground lava tube was created by a volcanic eruption over 5,000 years ago and is one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland. It’s definitely the easiest one to access and you can visit here all year round.

Good to know: The lava tunnel can only be visited with a guided tour. Tours take about 1 hour and there are several time slots during the day, depending on the season.

How to visit: If you have a car, you can easily drive here on your own (just don’t forget to book a time slot for your visit so that you are sure to have a spot). Alternatively, this is a very nice 3-hour excursion from Reykjavik, and there are several companies organizing tours here.

10. Westfjords Region

If you want to get a bit off the beaten path in Iceland and discover some of its most impressive, vast landscapes, then you really should consider visiting the Westfjords region .

It’s quite far away from everything, however, distances are immense, and most roads are gravel. So it’s best to travel here in summer and come well prepared.

Some of the most beautiful places not to be missed in the Westfjords are Dynjandi waterfall (most beautiful waterfall in Iceland), Látrabjarg bird cliffs (best place to see puffins in summer), Rauðisandur beach (endless red sand beach; unique in Iceland), and Ísafjörður town.

You’ll need at least 2-3 days to see the whole region and it will be rushed, but you can also see the main attractions in 1-2 days.

How to visit: You’ll need a 4WD or a 4×4 vehicle in the Westfjords. Make sure that your car insurance covers driving on gravel roads.

TIP: The easiest way to get to the Westfjords is by taking a car ferry from Stykkishólmur on Snaefellsnes Peninsula. That way, you can also just come for one or two days and see the landmarks on the southern side of the Westfjords region.

LEARN MORE: Westfjords One Day Itinerary

11. Skaftafell National Park

Skaftafell NP is one of the easiest-accessible and most beautiful National Parks in Iceland. It, therefore, deserves a mention on every list of the best places to visit in Iceland.

There are many short hiking trails in this park. The most popular hike is that to Svartifoss – a waterfall surrounded by impressive black basalt columns.

If you have a few hours to spare, consider the Svartifoss – Sjónarsker – Sel walk and the walk to the glacier Skaftafellsjökull. Alternatively, the Svartifoss – Sjónarnípa hike is somewhat longer but even more impressive.

How to visit: Skaftafell NP is located just off the Ring Road in the south of Iceland. You can easily get here in a regular car. There is a Visitors’ Center where you get more information and find detailed hiking maps.

12. Icelandic Highlands

The biggest part of Iceland has hardly any roads and is very little explored, but if there is one part of Iceland that is worth visiting more than anything else, it’s the Icelandic Highlands !

Since the highlands are so vast and there are so many beautiful hidden gems, it would be impossible to mention even a small part of them. At the same time, most areas are very remote and require local knowledge and super jeeps with oversized tires in order to visit them… Furthermore, the highlands are only accessible from approximately mid-June to mid-September.

Some of my favorite places in the highlands that are somewhat easy to visit are Kerlingarfjöll , Háifoss , and Landmannalaugar . Haifoss waterfall is quite easy to visit on your own as well.

How to visit: You’ll need a good 4WD or a 4×4 for all of the places mentioned above, but the easiest way to visit is by joining a tour. If you want to get a taste of what the highlands are about, the most popular highlands tours are those to Landmannalaugar. You can check availability and book Landmannalaugar tours here .

LEARN MORE: Icelandic Highlands Tour with a Private Driver

13. Reykjanes Peninsula

One of the easiest areas to visit in Iceland from this list, the Reykjanes Peninsula is often overlooked by most Iceland visitors. Their loss! This stunning area close to Keflavik airport and Reykjavik city is home to the popular Blue Lagoon and is well worth a visit too.

With colorful geothermal areas, endless lava fields, and stunning rugged coastlines, Reykjanes Peninsula is like the best of Iceland in a nutshell.

Don’t miss the Valahnúkamöl Cliffs at Reykjnesviti Lighthouse and Seltún Geothermal Area . Bridge Between Continents is another nice spot, just as Strandarkirkja and Garður . Krysuvikurberg Cliffs are really beautiful too, but require a 4 WD vehicle to get there.

How to visit: You can easily visit most of the attractions of the Reykjanes Peninsula by yourself with a regular car. Alternatively, join one of the guided tours from Reykjavik . Some areas require a 4WD or even a super jeep.

LEARN MORE: Ultimate Guide to Reykjanes Peninsula

14. Recently-Active Volcanos

This is the newest addition to the best things to do in Iceland – hiking to one of the recently erupted volcanos!

In March 2021, there was an eruption of the Fagradalsfjall volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The nearby Geldingadalir valley was filled with burning lava and the scenery was changing daily. The volcano quickly became the new most popular sight in Iceland attracting locals and tourists alike.

More recently, in August 2022, another volcano erupted just near the first site – Meradalir .

In the summer of 2023, Fagradalsfjall volcano erupted again, but this time it didn’t last long. In the winter of 2023, there was another massive eruption in the same area. It even triggered some evacuations and closures.

At the moment of the last update, these volcano eruptions have stopped. But many of the eruption sites remain a very popular place to see in Iceland, attracting lots of tourists every day.

Good to know: The easiest way to get to the volcano eruption sites is by car or by joining a tour (on foot or by helicopter). There are quite a few volcano tours available . Most of them include pick-up/ drop-off in Reykjavik and some also visit a few of the main highlights of the Reykjanes Peninsula or include tickets to the Blue Lagoon.

15. Tröllaskagi Peninsula

If there is one area in North Iceland that seems to be completely overlooked by international tourists, it’s the beautiful town of Siglufjörður and its surroundings, aka the Tröllaskagi Peninsula . It’s simply stunning!

The fishermen’s town Siglufjörður is extremely picturesque and The Herring Era Museum is well worth a visit. But probably even more impressive is the scenic drive to get there. Road 76 which leads from Varmahlíð to Siglufjörður is probably the most beautiful scenic drive in Iceland.

TIP: Make sure to stop at Hofsós swimming pool . Don’t miss the Grafarkirkja (said to be the oldest church in Iceland)! Víðimýrarkirkja and Glaumbær Farm & Museum are also worth a visit.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to explore this area.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Siglufjörður and Trollaskagi Peninsula

16. Heimaey Island

Part of Iceland’s Westman Islands, Heimaey Island is the biggest island and one of the most beautiful places in Iceland.

It’s a place where you can get acquainted with the more traditional way of living in Iceland and feel what it’s really like to live on a remote island. Especially if you visit off the main season.

The landscapes here are stunning, and in summer, you can see lots of puffins on the island. There is also a whale sanctuary where you can see white Beluga whales.

How to visit: You’ll need to take a ferry to get here. Private tours from Reykjavik are also possible, but very expensive. For comparison, be sure to check this option as well – the prices depend on your group size.

LEARN MORE: Visiting Westman Islands

17. Dettifoss & Asbyrgi

There are two more places in Northern Iceland that are well worth visiting and deserve a mention among the best things to do in Iceland – Dettifoss Waterfall and Asbyrgi Canyon .

Dettifoss is Europe’s most powerful waterfall. With 100 meters (330 ft) in width, a drop of 44 meters (144 ft), and an average water flow of 193 m³/s, this is the place where you feel the power of nature as nowhere else in Iceland. Must see!

Asbyrgi Canyon is a somewhat lesser-known place located between Dettifoss and Husavik and it’s well worth a short stop or a longer visit. It always amazes me how such completely different landscapes can be so close to each other and the tranquility of Asbyrgi is just incomparable to the roaring powerful Dettifoss.

How to visit: Road #862 to Dettifoss is paved and easily accessible (road #864 is not and requires a 4WD). Road #861 to Asbyrgi is also paved. However, road #862 north of Dettifoss is gravel and it’s best to have a 4WD if you are planning to drive here. Alternatively, you can reach Asbyrgi from Husavik.

18. Vatnajökull Glacier

With so many glaciers in Iceland, it’s hard to pick just one to mention as the best one to visit. However, Vatnajökull Glacier is the largest ice cap in Iceland. So if you visit just one glacier in Iceland, it will likely be this one.

With a total area of +- 7,900 km 2 (3,100 sq mi), Vatnajokull is immense. It has around 30 glacier tongues (outlet glaciers), each with its own name, and so it’s likely that you’ll see those names mentioned in the description of various glacier tours and activities.

How to visit: You can see various glacier tongues from the Ring Road in southern Iceland. But the best way to visit glaciers in Iceland is by booking a glacier hiking tour , visiting the ice caves , and snowmobiling . Keep in mind that you need to book an organized tour for any activities where you go on the glacier itself.

In winter – from about October to March – you can also see some of the most beautiful natural ice caves in Iceland. You can only visit with a tour and you should book in advance. There is also one place – Katla – where you can visit a natural ice cave in the summer as well . This is the best tour that goes to Katla ice cave and it departs from Vik. There is also a day tour that visits this ice cave from Reykjavik.

READ ALSO: Glacier Hiking in Iceland

19. East Fjords

Another region that is often overlooked by travelers who just drive the Ring Road from South to North is the East Fjords . It’s a stunning region that is well worth visiting if you pass eastern Iceland!

The nicest towns are probably Eskifjörður and Seyðisfjörður , the latter is famous for its colorful rainbow path leading to the church. In season, Borgarfjörður Eystri is a good place to see puffins.

There are also lots of waterfalls in the area, hiking trails, Laugarfell hot pool, and Petra’s Stone collection in Stöðvarfjörður…

The eastern part of Iceland is where you’re most likely to see reindeer.

How to visit: You will need a car to visit the East Fjords.

20. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon near Kirkjubaejarklaustur used to be one of my favorite places in Iceland. It was so peaceful and undiscovered. Nowadays, it’s so popular that the walking path along the side of the canyon had to be closed so that nature could recover a bit.

There are other incredibly beautiful canyons in Iceland, but this one is the easiest to access. So if you want to visit a canyon in Iceland, Fjaðrárgljúfur is well worth a trip. Just please be respectful to nature and obey the signs.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get here. This Jokulsarlon day tour also stops at Fjadrargljufur.

21. Goðafoss Waterfall

Goðafoss , meaning the waterfall of Gods, is one of the most visited waterfalls in Northern Iceland.

It’s extremely beautiful and especially on a sunny day. Often, you can see a rainbow over the falls and it looks simply magical.

How to visit: Located just next to the Ring Road, Godafoss is very easy to get to by car. All North Iceland tours that visit Myvatn stop here as well. Paved walking paths connected by a pedestrian bridge allow you to see the waterfall from two sides of the river.

22. Hvitserkur

Hvitserkur is a beautiful rhino-shaped rock along the northern coast of Iceland. While the rock itself is very impressive, the entire area around it is simply phenomenal.

We were not sure if it was worth the long drive, but it absolutely is. I, therefore, think that Hvitserkur deserves to be mentioned among the most beautiful places in Iceland. If you are driving in the north anyway, this is just a rather short detour from the Ring Road.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get here. The road is gravel but in good condition.

LEARN MORE: Hvitserkur

23. Reykjavík

While I think that Iceland’s beauty lies mostly in its nature and people rather than its towns, no list of the best places in Iceland would be complete without mentioning its capital city, Reykjavik .

Reykjavik has changed beyond recognition in the past years and it has more to offer to tourists than ever before.

In the past, I would have told you that one day is more than enough to see all the highlights, which include the views from Hallgrimskirkja church tower, discovering the streets of the colorful town center , feeding ducks at the Reykjavik Lake Tjörnin , visiting Harpa concert hall, seeing the Sun Voyager statue, and visiting some museums.

However, there is now so much more to see and do in Reykjavik than that, with new amazing attractions opening up all over the city all the time. So if you do have some extra time to spare, plan a few days in Reykjavik (see here our guide on where to stay in Reykjavik ).

TIP: My favorite museum that I absolutely recommend in Reykjavik is Perlan . Here you can find our guide to Perlan, the best museum in Reykjavik .

Other great attractions include FlyOver Iceland , Whales of Iceland , Magic Ice Bar , and the geothermal pool with cliffside ocean views, Sky Lagoon .

LEARN MORE: Top Things to Do in Reykjavik & Reykjavik 1-Day Itinerary

24. Langjökull Glacier

Langjökull is the second-largest glacier in Iceland. Its name means “the long glacier”.

Because of its proximity to the popular Golden Circle, it’s easy to visit Langjökull glacier when you are touring the area or on a day trip from Reykjavik. It’s also possible to reach the glacier from Húsafell which is closer to Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Important: Keep in mind that you need to go with a local guide who knows the area and potential dangers. You can see what kinds of tours are available here .

The glacier is vast and rather diverse, so there are some unique glacier tours here. There are also some ice caves that you can visit. There is a man-made ice cave that is accessible the whole year round, but there is also a natural ice cave , which is much more impressive, of course.

For many years, the most popular way to visit Langjökull Glacier was by snowmobile which allows you to cover big distances in a short time (there are snowmobile tours starting from Reykjavik or from the Golden Circle).

But if you want to see the ice caves of Langjokull, you should opt for a glacier truck tour instead. You can visit a man-made ice cave from Húsafell , but we recommend the newly-discovered natural ice cave that you can visit from the Golden Circle side instead. This recently launched glacier truck tour is one of the best options if you want to visit a natural ice cave near Reykjavik!

No matter which tour you choose, a visit to Langjökull Glacier is one of the most amazing experiences in Iceland. It will definitely make your trip so much more memorable!

25. Akureyri

For those of you who are wondering why Akureyri is at the bottom of this list… While I think that it’s a nice place to stop for an hour or two if you have plenty of time in Iceland, I also believe that there are so many nicer places to see in North Iceland that are worth your time more.

That being said, if you go to Akureyri, take some time to walk through the old town and also don’t miss the Botanical Gardens . The new attraction here is the geothermal pool called Forest Lagoon . Akureyri is also a popular place for whale-watching excursions .

There are also some nice places to see nearby, so you could use Akureyri as a ‘base’ location for exploring more of Northern Iceland.

If you are just passing by, you may want to stop at the Christmas House just outside of town.

So, this is our guide to some of the very best places to visit in Iceland.

I hope that it will inspire you to discover this beautiful country beyond its most popular tourist attractions like the Golden Circle, Reykjavik, and the South Coast.

Below, is a video showcasing some of our favorite places in Iceland . Take a look! And further down, you can find links to our other guides that should help you plan your own dream trip to Iceland.

How to plan a road trip in Iceland:

• Itinerary Suggestions: Iceland itinerary for 1 to 14 days
• The musts: 4 days in Iceland
• Best summer itinerary for one week: 7 days in Iceland
• Complete Ring Road: Iceland’s Ring Road in 10 days
• Winter trip: Iceland winter itinerary for one week
• A bit off the beaten path: 10 days in Iceland (summer only)

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Iceland

Planning a trip to Iceland and have questions? Please check our recommended articles below and in our Iceland travel guide .

If you have a specific question about any of the places mentioned in this article or want to share your favorite landmarks or attractions in Iceland, feel free to leave a reply below.

More tips for your trip to Iceland:

• Good to know: Iceland Travel Tips
• When to go: When to Visit Iceland – Summer vs. Winter
• Airport transfers: How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
• Budget: How Expensive is Iceland (& How to Save Money)
• Packing: What to Wear in Iceland in Winter & What to Pack for Iceland in Summer
• Tours: Best Tours and Day Trips in Iceland & Best Winter Day Trips from Reykjavik
• Winter trip: Tips for Visiting Iceland in Winter & Northern Lights in Iceland
• For at home: Nordic Gifts

READ ALSO: Northern Lights in Iceland

TIP: Planning a trip to Iceland and have questions? Join our Facebook Group for Iceland and Scandinavia Travel !

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Gustavo Correa

Monday 11th of March 2024

Hi, Jurga. Very nice and interesting your blog. I'm planning a trip with my family to see the Auroras borealis. I know to see Auroras borealis is very dependent from the time and place you go, is it Iceland a place where you can see the auroras borealis with great certainty? Any recommendations on best dates and place to go for it? Thanks, Gustavo

Monday 1st of April 2024

@Jurga, thanks a lot for your prompt answer. Very valuable and precise information. I'm already reviewing the options in Tromso and will give you feedback on my experience. Already subscribed to your Newsletter. Regards. Gustavo

Tuesday 12th of March 2024

Hi Gustavo, Iceland is a good place to see auroras, but it's impossible to predict. If it's cloudy for days in a row, you may not see anything. But if you are lucky, you may see them multiple times during your winter trip. For more practical information, take a look at our guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland for more information. Also remember that there are so many other great things to do in Iceland in winter! That being said, if auroras are your main interest, then consider other places that are closer to the aurora circle = the chances of seeing them are higher. One of the best places for the Northern Lights in the world is Tromso in Northern Norway. But also there, if you are very unlucky with the weather, you may not see them. The good thing is that being that close to the aurora circle, you can see some amazing displays even when the aurora activity is very weak. That's not the case in Iceland where you need a much higher solar activity in order to see really strong auroras. Here you can find our guide to the Northern Lights in Tromso. Whatever destination you choose, the longer you stay, the more chances you have.

Wednesday 29th of November 2023

Darn if I wasn't booked up for the next 2 years I would go here next summer. I can plan this for 2026 though.

Friday 1st of December 2023

Thursday 30th of November 2023

Ha ha, life's too short for all the trips we want to make, isn't it... But if you are making plans for the future, you really can't go wrong with visiting Iceland. It's so different than anywhere else. In the meantime, enjoy all your other trips!

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Hi, Your blog is great and super helpfu!! I love all of the details. I am going to Iceland in February (less than a month). I am doing a 5 day tour that includes a hike on a glacier. I am going a few days early and have 1 day to do an excursion. I am debating between the Glacier Lagoon and Kalta Ice Caves. We will not be going to Vik on the tour. Any thoughts on which is better? If you recommend the ice caves, I was planning on use viatour, but the Kalta tour is no longer available. Any suggestions on tour companies? Thanks, Alissa

Tuesday 24th of January 2023

@Jurga, Hi Thanks for the reply! Unfortunately, I can't get my money back and have already booked my tickets. Here is the tour that I am doing. I have some free time in in Reyjavick on my own before the tour starts and was thinking of doing an excursion. Unfortunately, 2 excursions won't work. I tried to past the website and highlights for my tour, but I couldn't. I will email you the link. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Hi Alissa, I'm not sure I'm following - you are going on a 5-day tour in winter and it doesn't include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and doesn't visit any ice cave??? All the best winter tours - even those that take just 2-3 days include both of these in their itinerary (see a 3-day tour and a 2-day tour). Plus, the ice caves that these tours visit are nicer than Katla, but they are too far to visit from Reykjavik in just a day (that's why it's best to go on a 2-3 day tour). Not knowing what you will see on your tour, it's difficult to suggest much. Except that maybe you should book another tour that has a better itinerary... Sorry, but I can't imagine how they wouldn't at least include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in a 5-day itinerary... It's really one of the must-see places in Iceland. Or are you talking about some other glacier lagoon? Or maybe you didn't read the description of your tour in detail... Anyway, if you want to visit Katla, there are still plenty of tours available for February (see on GetYourGuide - it's better than Viator anyway ;)). Hope this helps. Have a great time in Iceland - no matter what you end up visiting, you'll love it!

Friday 28th of January 2022

thank you so much i got all of my homework done because of this!

Glad to help, Landon. We have lots more info and travel itineraries for Iceland that can help you plan the trip. Happy travels!

Sunday 22nd of August 2021

Hello, this article is very helpful. My daughter wants to go to Iceland for her sweet 16 and I was wondering what the odds of us catching the northern lights in November are? What do you recommend so that I can make her bday memorable? Thanks in advance!

Thursday 6th of October 2022

@Jurga, You recommend not driving on your own - would you say this is due to unpredictable weather or because it is generally not safe to drive on your own in Iceland? Wondering if when I visit, if my home base is in Reykjavik, would it be a good idea to rent a car for a couple days to do a few day trips on our own as opposed to hiring a guide for a few?

Tuesday 24th of August 2021

Hi Jessica, in general, November is a great time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, but it remains a natural phenomenon (and the weather will have a big impact as well), so you can never guarantee that you'll get to see them. I was once in Iceland in November for a week and we had the best weather and the most amazing aurora displays a few times during the trip. But you can also have snowstorms and cloudy skies and not see much. So don't plan the trip just for the auroras - there's so much to see in Iceland and the Northern Lights will be just a nice extra if you get to see them.

I recommend either staying in Reykjavik and booking day tours or taking a multi-day tour with a local guide/driver if visiting Iceland in November. Don't drive on your own! If you stay in Reykjavik, you can visit some cool geothermal baths - Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, and take some nice tours. There are just so many choices, it's hard to suggest something specifically not knowing what your interests are. This might give you some ideas: * Best half-day trips from Reykjavik * Best winter tours from Reykjavik Don't miss the Golden Circle and especially the South Coast! There are also museums, nice restaurants, and other activities in town. Here are just a few suggestions: * Perlan museum * Fly over Iceland experience

For more info on the Northern Lights, please check this article: Northern Lights in Iceland.

One more recommendation comes to mind - you could stay in Reykjavik for the majority of the trip and book a 2-day tour for the South Coast. 2 days is a good time to see the highlights of the South Coast and visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon which is quite far to be done in a day. In addition, most 2-day tours include a visit to an ice cave and that can be the most amazing experience that your daughter will never forget! Take a look at this highly-rated 2-day tour for more info.

Hope this helps.

23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Iceland

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 14, 2023

Author Anietra Hamper has traveled throughout Iceland tackling outdoor adventures, from four-wheel driving over lava fields and fishing to taking in the waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic drives.

Iceland, the island of fire and ice, has become one of the world's top travel destinations , not only for thrill-seeking adventurers but also for nature lovers looking for something different.

Here, you'll discover active volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, glaciers, ice fields, and fjords, for this sparsely populated country, resting at the edge of the Arctic Circle, sits atop one of the world's most volcanically active areas.

One way to explore Iceland is on your own with a rental car, from several days to a week, including a trip along the Ring Road that runs in a complete circle around the country.

Another way to plot your adventure in Iceland is with tours that can take you to the best options to see the northern lights; ATV trekking; and on day trips from Reykjavik to see some of Iceland's most stunning natural beauty, like the Blue Lagoon and waterfalls.

Find out more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Iceland.

1. Explore Reykjavik by Foot

2. ride to the top of hallgrímskirkja, 3. soak in the blue lagoon, grindavík, 4. gullfoss waterfall, 5. spot whales out of reykjavik, 6. watch spectacular geysers, 7. take in the northern lights, aurora borealis, 8. hike in landmannalaugar nature reserve, 9. maelifell volcano & myrdalsjökull glacier park, 10. attend a concert at harpa, 11. explore the skaftafell ice cave, vatnajökull national park, 12. visit an active volcano at askja caldera, 13. feel the spray of dettifoss waterfall, 14. kirkjufell mountain, grundarfjördur, 15. hiking at mount esja, 16. walk the town of akureyri, 17. bird-watching at lake myvatn & nature reserve, 18. the pearl observatory (perlan), 19. rev up adventure with an atv trek, 20. float along a glacial lagoon, 21. reynisfjara black sand beach, 22. tour the raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, 23. visit iceland's quirky museums, best time to visit iceland.

The best way to start your trip to Iceland is by sightseeing in the capital city of Reykjavik . This is a walkable city with many museums, restaurants, attractions, public art, and entertainment.

Take a stroll to see some of the iconic locations in the city, like Hallgrimskirkja church and the Sun Voyager sculpture, or relax in one of Reykjavik's 17 thermal pools. You will enjoy walking up and down the city streets and perhaps stop into one of the many artsy and boutique shops to buy a wool sweater or lava pottery.

You can also book a Reykjavik Food Walk Tour and nibble your way through Reykjavik's food scene enjoying local cheeses, or try an authentic Icelandic hot dog.

Some of the best resorts in Iceland are in Reykjavik, so you can base yourself in the city and take day trips. An extremely popular way to visit nearby areas is on a South Coast Full Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik.

A Reykjavik modernist icon, this visually striking church is one of the city's top attractions, and when you see it, you'll understand why. Hallgrimskirkja is the tallest and most recognizable building in the country .

The Black Falls (a basalt rock formation), which is one of Iceland's natural wonders, inspired the architectural design. A climb to the top of the 73-meter-high tower is particularly rewarding. Here, you'll be treated to spectacular views across the city and surrounding landscape. At the front of the church is a statue of Icelander Leifur Eiriksson ("Leif the Lucky"), the first European to discover America around 1,000 CE. It seems he beat Christopher Columbus by around 500 years or so. For a small fee, you can take the elevator to the top and get the best panoramic view of Reykjavik.

Address: Hallgrímstorg 1 101, Reykjavik

Just 40 minutes' drive from Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon , the most iconic of geothermal spas, is a must-see tourist attraction. Here, you'll find natural bathing in pale blue water in the shadow of a power station.

An entire Blue Lagoon industry has grown around this attraction since it first became a hit with locals in 1976. The water from the underground hot springs reaches 37-39 degrees Celsius and is said to be highly beneficial for both health and skin. If the die-hard Icelanders are anything to go by, don't knock the theory. Aside from bathing in a unique setting, there's a shop selling skincare products, a range of spa treatments, and places to eat and drink. Don't visit Iceland without coming here.

Rub on a mask of natural mud in minerals from one of the tubs located on the edges of the lagoon. For the ultimate relaxing visit, you can stay at one of the two hotels at the Blue Lagoon and add on a day at the Retreat Spa.

It is easy to book a bus trip to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik, but if you want to add an extra element of Iceland adventure, you can book a day trip on an ATV that will have you drive there over lava rock paths and take you back by coach to your hotel.

Address: Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík

Magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall lies around 90 minutes west of Reykjavik and is one of the best waterfalls in Iceland . The river Hvítá plummets into a canyon, which forms three-step terraces, creating a powerful torrent. Gullfoss encompasses two cascades; the upper one drops 11 meters, while the lower one cascades about 21 meters.

Torrents of water flow over Gullfoss at an average rate of 109 cubic meters per second, although heavy floods have recorded an astonishing rate of nearly twenty times that. A word of warning: there are no rails or barriers, just a spine-tingling spectacle to enjoy amid surroundings as nature intended.

No matter what time of year you plan to travel to Iceland, whale watching happens year-round, although summer is the most popular time to see these gentle giants. During the warmer months, trips run day and night, including whale watching in the midnight sun.

Tour operators say there's an 80-95 percent chance of seeing these magnificent creatures, depending on the time of year. Best of all, surfacing often happens right near the boats, so you may well enjoy a ringside seat for one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles.

Other ocean-going tours are also available, such as bird-watching and island visits. Tours are convenient since there are several types available, and they depart from Reykjavik's Old Harbor. Stop for a dinner of fresh cod after you return in one of the many small, rustic restaurants located in the harbor area.

Address: Ægisgardur 5, Reykjavik's Old Harbor

An easy 50-minute drive from Reykjavik , Strokkur Geysir (after which all geysers are named) is the most popular fountain geyser in the country and is famed throughout the world. This highly active hot spring area lies in the southwest of Iceland beside the Hvítá River and is a favorite stop along what's known as the Golden Circle.

Boiling mud pits and around 100 other smaller exploding geysers are waiting to be explored here. Every few minutes, Strokkur shoots water 30 meters into the air. Visit the Geysir Center for exhibits and informative presentations year-round.

A memorable experience is digging up Geysir or "hot spring" bread, rye bread that has been baking underground for 24 hours. Visitors can also help a chef boil eggs in a hot spring to accompany the bread. One popular day tour to the area is the Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik, which has several stops and can ensure you get the iconic geyser photo from your trip.

The northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, are among the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland. This is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights .

Auroras are linked to solar wind, a flow of ions radiating from the sun. These particles become ensnared in the earth's magnetic field and collide with atmospheric molecules, causing bursts of energy, which appear as large circles around the poles. This spectacular natural light show is best admired in remote places and is particularly impressive at times of increased solar activity. Since the appearance of the northern lights is unpredictable, most hotels and lodging operators can provide you with nightly predictions before you go to bed and add you to an overnight call list.

They will call your room if the lights appear, as they may only be visible for a short window of time. For one of the most optimal opportunities to experience the northern lights, you can take a tour like the Northern Lights Night Tour from Reykjavik, which takes you to the remote countryside for the best chance to see this natural wonder.

In the south of Iceland, 180 kilometers from Reykjavik, is Landmannalaugar National Park, one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations. The main features of this mystical landscape are the multi-hued rhyolite mountains, Hekla volcano , and extensive lava fields.

Hiking and horse riding are popular things to do here, and hikes range from a couple of hours to several days. You can visit from June to late September, after which the road is closed. A mountain lodge ( Landmannalaugar Hut ) with basic facilities accommodates 75 people. Expect raw nature, rugged scenery, and utterly spectacular views.

South of Landmannalaugar lies Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park, which for safety reasons can only be visited during summer. Large amounts of rain soak the area, particularly in winter, when roads can be severely damaged. Maelifell volcano is the undisputed jewel-in-the-crown of this wild, rugged glacial landscape.

The perfect cone shape gives Maelifell the look of a classic volcano, however during the warm season, a lavish green covering of moss gives it a surreal, otherworldly appearance. The park is full of volcanoes, hot springs , and other remarkable sites. To the west of Myrdalsjökull is a smaller glacier, Eyjafjallajökull (Island Mountain Glacier). A popular and thrilling way to explore is by snowmobile.

As you plan your time in Iceland, set aside an evening for a concert at the magnificent Harpa , Reykjavik's premier concert hall. If time or performance schedules do not fit your schedule, plan to at least stop by to admire the award-winning architecture of the building. Nighttime is one of the best times to see the array of colorful lights emanating from this honeycomb-shaped structure.

Harpa is a treasured landmark in Iceland, attracting international performances ranging from violinists and classical music to performing arts.

This venue makes for a great night out in the heart of the city. Enjoy dinner at one of Harpa's two restaurants and go for a stroll outside along the waterfront after the performance. The gift shop is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs, many made by local artists.

Address: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavik

In the south of the country, Vatnajökull National Park is a land of glaciers and magnificent ice caves that attracts adventurers from across the globe. This vast national park (one of three in Iceland) is divided into four sections and consists of Vatnajökull glacier and its surroundings.

You'll find a number of visitor centers; those in Skaftafell Ice Cave and Höfn are open year-round, while Skriðuklaustur and Jökulsárgljúfur are closed in winter. The best time to visit Skaftafell Ice Cave is during winter after heavy rain has washed the top layer of the glacier away.

If seen at the right time, the cave is bathed in spectacular blue light. Group visits to all areas can be arranged off-season. If you are in good shape, you might consider doing a glacial trek with an experienced guide. The treks get you on the ice for an unforgettable experience to see glacial cracks and caves and even drink fresh water from small pools on the surface.

In the northern region of Vatnajökull National Park, the Askja caldera and the geothermal pool in the Dyngjufjöll Mountains are not for the faint-hearted. However, if you'd like to say you've taken a dip in a live volcano, then this is for you.

Askja is an impressive 50 square kilometers in size. The surrounding mountain range was formed during volcanic activity, and Askja was partly created by an eruption of burning ash that collapsed the roof of the central volcano's magma chamber.

The water in Viti , the geothermal pool and volcanic crater, is generally around 30 degrees Celsius. A word of warning, the banks can be very slippery, particularly in wet weather.

Dettifoss, in the north of Vatnajökull National Park, truly is a breathtaking example of the raw power of nature. Plunging 45 meters and with a width of 100 meters, it's said to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

Generally, it's best to approach on the east side of the River Jökulsa, where the road is better. Along easy paths from Dettifoss, Selfoss is a smaller waterfall around one kilometer upstream with a drop of around 10 meters. Below Dettifoss, the Hafragilsfoss waterfall tumbles 27 meters into a steep canyon. It's more advisable to drive than walk to Hafragilsfoss.

Around 2.5 hours' drive northwest of Reykjavik is the small town of Grundarfjördur, a charming fishing village centrally located on the north coast of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. The town lies in a picturesque fjord, surrounded by mountains, with Mt. Kirkjufell looming as a striking landmark.

Dotted about the surroundings, you'll discover small streams and waterfalls. During winter, Kirkjufell is a great place to watch the awe-inspiring northern lights . Eyrbyggja Heritage Centre holds exhibitions on Grundarfjördur's seafaring history and is the information center for the whole peninsula.

A 30-minute easterly drive from Reykjavik brings you to Mount Esja in Kjalarnes. The mountain is 914 meters high and very popular with hikers. Even for the inexperienced climber, it's a relatively easy hike. There are terrific views of Reykjavik and the surrounding landscape and ocean.

You can take several routes to the summit depending on your energy levels and how much time you have. You can get to the main starting point at Mount Esja by a 10-minute bus ride on public transportation that leaves out of the Hlemmur main station towards Artun. Check bus schedules and times before your visit.

In the north of the country, Akureyri lies amid mountains on the longest fjord in Iceland about 40 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. With a population of around 18,000, Akureyri's landscape and culture make it one of the best cities in Iceland . Summer days occasionally reach 25 degrees Celsius, and although winters bring heavy snowfall and cold weather, calm and still weather generally prevails.

Despite the town's isolation, cultural life and entertainment flourish here, and a wide range of shops offer brand-name products. The skiing area is the best in the country. Points of interest include the Akureyri Museum and the impressive Aviation Museum at Akureyri Airport .

A little over an hour's easterly drive from Akureyri is Myvatn in northern Iceland. It is a lake district famous for its wealth of birdlife, rich fauna, and large shallow body of water. It's estimated that the area was formed around 2,500 years ago by a gigantic lava eruption.

Today, the surroundings are volcanically active, with an eruption occurring as recently as the mid-1980s. Bubbling clay pits, sulphuric fumes, and lava formations all form part of this unique landscape, which is still in flux.

One of the most interesting scenic features of Myvatn is the rootless vents formed by the volcanic eruption. While the landforms resemble craters, they did not have a lava flow, but the volcanic activity still resulted in their creation, adding to a stunning and unique appearance around the lake.

The name Myvatn literally means "midge-water," a reference to the prolific midges here, especially during summer, so be sure to pack some insect repellent. The area is also a bird-watcher's paradise.

Originally the site of the city's gigantic thermal water tanks, " Perlan ," as it's known locally, is one of Reykjavik's landmark buildings. It occupies an enviable location on Öskjuhlíð hill, where there are in excess of 176,000 trees.

The hill is particularly pleasant, with bicycle trails and footpaths zigzagging up and down. The observatory affords stunning views over the city. Also on-site is a revolving restaurant , as well as gourmet and souvenir shops.

In addition, Perlan regularly hosts concerts and exhibitions in the Winter Garden. The observation deck is a real treat. The new planetarium is spectacular with a virtual trip of Iceland featuring the country's natural elements.

Address: Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík

A popular thing to do and one of the most adventurous ways to experience Iceland is on the back of an ATV, trekking across rugged lava fields, riding up dormant volcanos, and passing pastures with roaming wild Icelandic ponies.

These are views of Iceland that you will never forget and one of the best ways to get up close to the country's most scenic natural environment. Tours like the two-Hour ATV Quad Tour from Reykjavik lets you experience ATV off-road adventure without a huge time commitment. Many tours depart from Reykjavik but they are available in most regions of the country.

While Iceland is full of natural wonders, one of the most spectacular is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You will ride in a boat through large chunks of ice that have separated from the glacier.

The floating ice in the lagoon ranges from the size of small pebbles to the size of cars, but since you are floating in the lagoon with them, they are close enough to touch. Witness the blue hue of glacial cave formations and birds flying above in this natural environment.

The South Coast and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Day Tour from Reykjavik is a popular tour for visitors who want to set up a home base for their visit to Reykjavik and do a day trip to this top attraction. The tour also includes visits to two beautiful waterfalls and spectacular views of mountains and glacial rivers along the south coast.

While Iceland has some stunning beaches, the Reynisfjara black-sand beach on the country's southern coast has an other-worldly appearance. This unique beach is known for its black sand and rocky sea stacks that protrude from the oftentimes ferocious waves coming in from the Atlantic Ocean.

The eerie yet stunning landscape of natural beauty at Reynisfjara beach is one of the reasons it was selected as a filming location for films like Star Wars. The lighting at this beach adds to its contrasting allure, which is why it is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys photography.

As with many natural locations in Iceland, Reynisfjara black-sand beach has dark folklore associated with it. Iceland legend says that the rocky basalt sea stacks were once trolls pulling seafaring ships to shore in the night, and they turned to stone during sunrise.

You are not likely to see any trolls during your visit, but you might see some of the thousands of seabirds, like puffins, guillemots, and fulmars, that nest in the columns.

The 2.5-hour drive to the beach is easy from Reykjavik, or you can take a guided trip along the southern coast that includes this as a stop if you want to spend more time at some of the other features on that side of the island.

Read More: Best Black Sand Beaches in the World

The land of fire and ice has so many intriguing natural elements that visiting is an exciting science lesson into how volcanos work. One way to find out is by visiting the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel in southwest Iceland.

At 4,461 feet, it is one of the longest lava tubes in the country. You can take a guided tour through the cave to get up close to the stunning lava rock formations and colorful walls that have formed below the earth.

A tour through the tunnel will walk you through the path where lava flowed during a volcanic eruption of the Bláfjöll Mountain Range more than 5,000 years ago. These tunnels were formed as flowing magma hardened and thickened, creating a crust roof resulting in a lava tube.

Outside the lava tube, you will see stunning green moss covering lava rock and craters formed from the eruption. It is only about a half hour from Reykjavik, and you can visit year-round. If you visit in the winter, plan on wearing extra layers and sturdy boots for icy and wet conditions.

Iceland has an intriguing history of Vikings that settled on the island and folklore involving trolls and other creatures that still influence the culture today. One of the most interesting ways to learn about the varied tentacles of Icelandic culture is by visiting some of its museums. Some of them are seemingly mainstream, while others, sometimes found off the beaten path, explore some rather unusual finds.

In Reykjavik, the National Museum of Iceland is a good place to visit to explore Icelandic history and settlement. The Saga Museum also gives insight into the Viking heritage, with life-sized replicas of early settlers, offering a nice history lesson before you venture into some of the other types of museums.

Start your quirky museum visit with The Punk Museum on the back street of Reykjavik, which delves into Iceland's punk music scene that emerged in the 1970s. The Árbær Open Air Museum (within the Reykjavik City Museum) is another experience worth trying as you see more than 20 buildings that form a small early settlement village.

Not far from Reykjavik in Njarðvík is the Viking World Museum , which has an exact replica of a Viking ship that was discovered in Norway in the late 1800s and exhibitions detailing the Norse settlement.

One of the more unique museums in Iceland is the Sigurgeir's Bird Museum at Mývatn . The tiny museum features a collection of more than 300 preserved bird specimens representing over 180 species and an extensive collection of eggs.

The Library of Water in Stykkishólmur will give you insight into Iceland's natural environment, with dozens of columns holding water from ice caps. The Nonsense Museum in the Westfjords is a quirky stop to enjoy a large collection of random items, from sugar cubes to police hats that came from forces around the world.

For those who are interested in a deep dive into the history of Iceland's folklore, you should visit The Museum of Icelandic Witchcraft and Sorcery in the Westfjords in Hólmavík village. This museum gives insight into some of the tales and history on which Icelandic beliefs are based. This can be a tough visit for some, and parents should give it a preview before taking their children inside.

When it comes to Iceland, the scenery is naturally stunning year-round, but certain times of the year are better than others to catch some of its most sought-after attributes.

For most visitors, the best time to visit Iceland is in the summer . But, the best time can also depend on what you want to experience. Do you want to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, visit when there is the most hours of daylight, or navigate the Ring Road with no snow? Or, do you want to travel during the low season to get the best rates on hotels and airfare? All of these factors matter when determining the best time to go to Iceland for your specific travel priorities.

Each season in Iceland comes with unique opportunities for exploration and the natural experiences that the island is famous for, like the midnight sun, aurora borealis, and hot springs.

Summer : Summer is hands down one of the best times to go to Iceland. It is the season with the best weather conditions, comfortable temperatures, the best opportunities for sightseeing, and when the roads and hiking trails are open and dry.

You get a front-row seat to the midnight sun. From May through August there is complete sunlight at midnight . While 24 hours of daylight makes it tough to sleep during your trip, it gives you more time to experience all that there is to see and do in Iceland. Summer is a great time to see minke whales out of Reykjavik.

Fall: The fall season is a lovely time to visit Iceland, when temperatures are slightly cooler, the summer tourists are gone, and the weather conditions are still favorable to do things like trekking on a glacier and riding an ATV over lava fields.

Fall colors on the trees are pretty, especially if you are horseback riding or hiking on one of the mountain trails. As fall dips into November, your chances of seeing the northern lights increase, and roads may start to close due to weather conditions. It is also a nice time to visit the Blue Lagoon when there are not so many tourists.

Winter: Winter days in Iceland can have almost 19 hours of darkness. It has the most inclement weather, but the top reason for visiting in the winter months is the chance to see the elusive northern lights. Prices will be cheaper for accommodations, and you will have plenty of availability on tours since it is the off-season.

Winter is a great time to take advantage of the snowfall in Iceland, with excursions like exploring ice caves and snowmobiling. It can be a fun time to visit the Blue Lagoon and the local hot springs where you can warm up – that is, until you get out.

Spring: Early spring in Iceland may still have snow-covered roads, but the days are starting to get longer. You also still have a chance to catch the northern lights during your visit. This shoulder season may limit some winter activities as they come to an end, and some summer excursions may not be available yet.

Spring is a great time to go whale watching, with many kinds of tours available out of Reykjavik. Spring is when you can catch a glimpse of another of Iceland's famous animal residents, the puffin, the unusual-looking bird that is more active in the spring.

More on Iceland

30+ Magnificent Places to Visit in Iceland (You Need on Your Bucket List!)

Last Updated: May 11, 2021

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Until you see it for yourself, it’s hard to believe a place like Iceland actually exists.

In fact, there are so many jawdropping places to visit in Iceland that some might say it’s Mother Nature’s ‘best hits’ album. 

Staggering waterfalls mixed with milky blue water, mindblowing national parks next to glittering ice caves… 

I could throw a million adjectives at you, but no word better describes Iceland’s beauty than extreme, with a surplus of sights that are equal parts stunning and… totally able to wipe you out in a split second.  

Save this list of places to visit in Iceland for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Iceland is certifiably badass, powerful, and photogenic… so in honour of this magnificent country (one of my favourites in the world!), I’ve rounded up some of the best Iceland places I saw during my epic Ring Road trip so you can plan your own dream vacation and see them all for yourself. 

PS: For your convenience, this list of places to visit in Iceland is organized in a counter-clockwise direction starting from Reykjavik, as I assume that’s where you’ll be starting your journey. I’ve also divided the must-sees into regions/areas so you can organize your itinerary more easily.

Of course, we’ll start with the obvious – Reykjavik, Iceland’s tiny fun-sized capital that is home to many impressive feats of architecture, and some of the quirkiest museums you’ll find in the world (like the Iceland Phallogical Museum ).

While most visitors flock to Iceland for the natural sights, a stop in Reykjavik is a must to savour a completely different side of the country… with plenty to offer visitors even if ogling animal dongs isn’t your typical idea of fun.

Some wonderful places to visit in Reykjavik include the Harpa and  Hallgrimskirkja Church.

The Harpa is Reykjavik’s main concert hall and conference centre.

Its glittering glass facade is filled with colourful geometric panels supposedly inspired by the distinctive basalt landscapes seen across the country. 

Definitely a must-visit when you’re exploring Reykjavik… and in need of an epic photo opp or two.

Another must see is the towering, Hallgrimskirkja Church, which is actually the largest church Iceland has to offer.

Similar to the Harpa, this church’s aesthetic was also inspired by Iceland’s unique landscapes, with an expressionist design that takes inspiration from Iceland’s famous mountains and glaciers. 

It took over four decades to properly complete this church, but today it’s a true sight to behold, with the best views in town found on top!

Be sure to grab tickets at the church’s shop for the ride up top. More info here.

The Reykjanes Peninsula

This piece of Iceland southwest of Reykjavik is one you might have never heard of, but it’s actually home to Keflavik Airport, and one of Iceland’s most beloved attractions: The Blue Lagoon!

The landscapes here are perhaps lesser known than some of the more Instagrammed sights across Iceland, but take some time to explore this region and you’ll find expansive lava fields topped in swathes of moss, bubbling hot springs and even a drift zone between continents.

Some must-visit sights in this area include the Blue Lagoon, which is of course one of the most famous attractions in the entire country.

This geothermal spa attracts millions of visitors a year thanks to its milky blue water (caused by silica), and while it’s one of the most crowded and more expensive experiences in Iceland, I still had a great time and would recommend it. 

I saved this attraction for last during my road trip, simply because it was the perfect treat after a week’s worth of grimy van living (with infrequent showers and many, sweaty layers of winter clothes).

The water is every bit as blue and spectacular as you see in all the photos, and there’s even a swim-up bar if “getting drunk in a milky blue pool of tourists” is on your bucket list.

Besides the Blue Lagoon, there are also several cool attractions in the Reykjanes Peninsula, like The Bridge Between Continents , a footbridge where you can walk over a fissure between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Yes, there’s even signs that tell you “Welcome to Europe” and “Welcome to America”.

Fun fact: this bridge used to be called the “Leif the Lucky” Bridge, after Leif Eriksson, an Icelandic explorer who many consider to have been the 1st European to visit North America 500 years before Christopher Columbus did.

The Golden Circle

If you’re looking for some of the most famous places to visit in Iceland, then the Golden Circle is where you need to head.

This scenic route encompasses three of Iceland’s top natural attractions: Gullfoss, Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir Geothermal Area, all linked in a 230km loop that can be done in a day from Reykjavik. 

This convenience is precisely what makes the Golden Circle THE most popular place in Iceland for tours and (of course) tourists.

Depending on your taste, this might make it a must-do thanks to the many tours that are offered, or a must-skip due to crowds.

My honest opinion? I think any traveller should visit the Golden Circle no matter what, but maybe plan a self-drive route and visit early in the day to avoid the tourists masses.

Some of the highlights of the Golden Circle include Gullfoss (“Golden Falls”), a thundering two-tiered waterfall that dramatically spouts out water from the Langjökull glacier to the tune of 109 cubic metres PER SECOND in the summer:

There’s also Þingvellir National Park, one of only three official national parks in Iceland.

The rugged and exaggerated landscape of Þingvellir is more than reason enough to stop by, but don’t lose sight of the park’s historical significance either! It was here that the Icelandic parliament assembled for centuries and centuries, starting from the year 930 AD.

And of course, there’s the Geysir Geothermal Area, a geothermal field spanning about 3km² filled with hot springs, boiling mud pits, and exploding geysers.

If watching scalding hot water gush over 70m into the air is your idea of fun, then this area is a must-visit. 

Fun fact: the English word “geyser” actually originates from the Great Geysir, which can be found here.

Of course, like anywhere in Iceland, it’s possible to find more offbeat places too along the Golden Circle.

Looking for a less touristy spa experience than the Blue Lagoon? Laugarvatn Fontana is awesome.

They have warm geothermal pools (though sadly, not milky blue!), a series of steam rooms and a gorgeous lakeside location that makes for a great relaxing break:

There’s also Kerið Crater, a 3000 year old lake in a volcanic crater known for its red rocks and bright azure colour.

It’s not part of all Golden Circle tours, but thanks to its proximity to the route’s other main sights, it’s often an extra add-on or easy stopover if you’re driving the route yourself.

Seljalandsfoss

I consider Seljalandsfoss to be one of the best places to visit in Iceland for SO many different reasons. 

Found near Iceland’s south coast, this striking 60m waterfall is one you can actually walk behind, with a clear path that takes you behind the falls for some unique, breathtaking (and misty) views. 

Get the timing right and you’ll also be able to capture the falls with a perfect rainbow in front of it. 

Last but not least, if you’re a recovering Belieber, you might also recognize this waterfall from the iconic “I’ll Show You” music video. 

Not far from Seljalandsfoss, you’ll find another wonderful waterfall worth visiting – Skogafoss . With a width of 25m and a height of 60m, this is not only one of the most photogenic waterfalls to visit in Iceland, it’s also one of the biggest.

And in case you think it looks familiar, that’s because Skogafoss is another Icelandic waterfall that has been somewhat immortalized in pop culture, thanks to appearances in many movies and TV shows, including Game of Thrones.

Vík & Reynisfjara Black Beach

Vík  is Iceland’s southernmost village, and is a must visit destination for many tourists thanks to its #1 attraction: Reynisfjara Black Beach.

This dark, emo beach is as alien as it gets, with pitch black volcanic ashes that create the ultimate moody atmosphere for your next album cover. 

Completing the look is of course a slew of Iceland’s signature basalt columns just off the shoreline. According to local legend, these rocks are actually mischevious trolls who were turned to stone.

One story posits that they were simply dumb trolls who stayed up until dawn while trying to pull ships from the ocean, whereas another claims that the trolls were frozen there as part of one man’s vengeance plan for the murder/kidnapping of his wife.

Whichever tale you choose, be sure to think of trolls when you’re posing by those big basalt columns!

NOTE: The ferocity of the waves at Reynisfjara Black Beach can’t be understated. “Sneaker” waves in this area are common, and have swept many unsuspecting visitors out into the water over the years.

Vatnajökull National Park

This gigantic national park in Eastern Iceland is one of only three national parks in the country, and because it covers so much scenic ground, it’s of course one of the top places you must visit in Iceland. 

Vatnajökull National Park is so big in fact that it actually encompasses 14% of Iceland’s territory , including two former national parks (Saftafell and Jökulsárgljúfur) within it, along with several iconic Iceland sights.

There is of course Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier found outside the arctic, whose glacial ice reaches almost 1km thickness at its thickest points, concealing numerous mountains and even active volcanos.

Today, visitors can tour this massive icy wonderland via jeep or snowmobile by booking a tour.

And while you won’t be able to see it (it’s subglacial and under an ice cap), you should know that this national park is also home to Grímsvötn, the most frequently active volcano in Iceland.

Another must-visit place in Iceland that’s part of Vatnajökull National Park is Jökulsárlón (whose name means ‘glacial river lagoon’).

This massive glacial lake in the southern portion of the park has been popularized by plenty of movies and TV shows (Amazing Race included) and remains one of the most popular places to visit in Iceland for visitors from around the world. 

Interestingly, Jökulsárlón is the deepest lake in the country, and one that continues to increase in size as years go on as nearby glaciers melt.

Unfortunately, the weather gods were hardly on my side when I visited (with fog obscuring most of the view), but it’s nonetheless one of the most impressive sights in Iceland, and one that I would recommend visiting.

Another nearby Iceland attraction to visit is Breiðamerkursandur , known more coloquially as Diamond Beach.

This jet black beach is where jagged icebergs float in from Jökulsárlón, creating a glittering display of diamond-like ice shards.

If it’s a uniquely Icelandic photo opportunity you’re looking for, this beach is a must-visit.

As previously mentioned, Vatnajökull National Park absorbed Skaftafell National Park back in 2008.

This area is where you’ll find Svartifoss, another must-visit waterfall in Iceland known for its unique aesthetic surrounded by towering lava columns:

You’ll also find Iceland’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss here, but it’s more in the Northeastern part of the country, so we’ll expand more on that later.

The Viking Village

Looking for a really offbeat and quirky place to visit in Iceland? What if I told you there was an abandoned viking village film set left over from a production that never actually happened?

Because that exists, and you’ll find it in Eastern Iceland, along with a “Viking Café” and adorable guesthouse. 

Long story short, this Viking Village set was built in 2010 for a film production that (after many years of funding issues) never actually happened.

Today, the set still stands for your eager exploration, and has in the meantime picked up a few roles in productions as well, finally fulfilling its original purpose.

Read more about the visit here.

The Eastfjords

Iceland’s Eastern coastline is definitely one of the best places to visit in Iceland if you’re looking for a more remote (and more crowdless) travel experience.

The Eastfjords of Iceland refer to the (approximately) 120 km stretch of the country’s Eastern coastline spanning from Borgarfjörður Eystri to Berufjörður.

Some interesting places to visit in this area are Seyðisfjarðarkirkja , a charming little town famous for its rainbow road church:

And Hengifoss, Iceland’s third highest waterfall known for its distinctive red and black pattern.

Unlike some of Iceland’s more popular waterfalls, this one does require an hour-ish hike, but it’s worth it for views like this:

And gorgeous sights along the way like the Litlanesfoss , a waterfall gloriously framed by some of those towering  basalt columns we’ve come to obsess over: 

Arctic Henge

And if you want to go to Northern Iceland (very very far North), then another interesting place to check out is Iceland’s Arctic Henge, where you’ll find a series of arches and statues inspired by Norse Mythology.

You’ll find it near the village of Raufarhöfn.

The Diamond Circle

Iceland seems to have a fondness for circles, from its famous circular Ring Road to its best-known tourist area: the Golden Circle.

Well, if you’re exploring Northern Iceland, it should come as no surprise that they have a Circle for you too – the Diamond Circle! 

This sightseeing route comprises of four main attractions: the famous lake of Mývatn, mega-waterfall Dettifoss, the epic canyon of Ásbyrgi and the adorable fishing town of Húsavik.

Lake Mývatn is one of the biggest lakes in Iceland, and the region surrounding it is known for its surplus of unique natural wonders, from striking landscapes and sizzling hot springs to an impressive roster of flora and fauna.

If you’re keen on taking a detour to Mars, the sulfuric mud springs of Námaskarð (near Lake Mývatn) are as close to Martian landscape as you can get here on Earth (except Lanzarote , maybe).

Does the sulphur make the whole area smell of boiled eggs? Absolutely, but it’s  a stench worth braving for landscapes like these: 

Another must-visit part of the Diamond Circle is Dettifoss, which is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe (and THE most powerful one in Iceland), with an average waterflow of 193 meters cubed per SECOND. 

Its muddy and dark greyish hues are thanks to a high density of sediments in the water, adding to the falls’ apocalyptic charm:

If you don’t mind a short walk while visiting Dettifoss, consider walking to Selfoss too.

It’s about 1km away, and offers some glorious views.

This is one of the few popular waterfalls in Iceland whose width (100m) far exceeds its height (11m), making it a nice stop for some variety.

Another stop along the Diamond Circle is Ásbyrgi, an impressive glacial canyon shaped like a horseshoe, with a dramatic aesthetic upheld by steep cliff faces and an expansive woodland stretching far into the distance.

While this canyon isn’t as famous as some of the other sights along the Diamond Circle, it’s a worthwhile off the beaten path place to visit in Iceland, with plenty of hiking trails to enjoy. Click here for some more ideas on things to do in the area.

The final stop of the Diamond Circle route is Husavik, a small fishing town recently popularized by Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga .

Besides being the namesake for one of my favourite songs of 2020 ( listen here ), it’s also the whale watching capital of the country, with various species of whales frequently spotted in the vicinity.

With a name like “Waterfall of the Gods” in a country so renowned for waterfalls, you shouldn’t be surprised that Goðafoss has made it onto my Places to Visit in Iceland list.

Found in Northern Iceland , Goðafoss is often considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, with a distinctive curved shape that stretches 30m wide:

Aldeyjarfoss

This is a waterfall I sadly haven’t been able to see for myself yet, but once I saw a photo, I knew it needed to be included in this list of Iceland’s top places. 

Found in North Iceland, this glorious waterfall has a dramatic drop of 20m, made all the more epic by its location surrounded by moody basalt columns: 

While Akureyri is the Capital of North Iceland, it often doesn’t get a ton of love on “must-see places in Iceland” lists because it is, at first glance, a fairly ordinary town. 

But while it doesn’t have a ton of attractions to offer within the “city” itself, there are still a few points of interest that make Akureyri a worthwhile place to visit fo a few hours, or as a base for your other Northern Iceland adventures.

Some nice spots to check out in Akureyri include the Laufas Turf Houses, the Akureyri Church and (nearby), the adorable Christmas House in Jólahúsið.

Tröllaskagi Peninsula

Another fairly offbeat place to visit in Iceland I’d recommend is the Tröllaskagi Peninsula.

We stayed overnight here during our van trip and it was honestly so raw and beautiful, I don’t understand why it’s not talked about more!

This peninsula in Northern Iceland is best known for its majestic Icelandic horses, so if you want to see some of those fluffy beauties in person, here would be a great place to do that.

You’ll also find some of the tallest mountains in the country here, along with other iconic Icelandic landscapes like waterfalls and rock formations

Vatnsnes Peninsula 

In Northwest Iceland, you’ll find another beautiful peninsula that’s a bit more off the beaten path for most visitors – the Vatnsnes Peninsula, best known for its abundance of seal colonies, and its many unique rock formations.

The most famous of these formations is the Hvítserkur, which stands at a tall 15m, and is often compared to a variety of animals, from elephants and rhinos to dinosaurs and dragons. 

Here’s a photo – what do you think?

Kolugljúfur Canyon

Another offbeat place in Iceland I’d highly recommend visiting is the majestic Kolugljúfur Canyon, a dramatic and ruggedly beautiful gorge where you’ll find the Kolufossar Falls (pictured below).

Of course, there’s no shortage of wonderful waterfalls to admire in Iceland, but these are truly a breathtaking sight to behold:

The Westfjords

Iceland’s Westfjords refer to the scenic piece of Northwestern Iceland that juts out like a little claw from the northwestermost point of the Ring Road.

Because it’s quite a lengthy detour from the typical Ring Road route, this is an area often missed by visitors, making it one of the quieter and more remote places in Iceland you can visit.

While for the most part, the Westfjords are only accessible in the summer, those who time their visit appropriately are treated to staggering landscapes with a fraction of the crowds seen elsewhere in Iceland’s tourist hotspots. 

What kind of sights can you experience in the Westfjords? Highlights include quirky museums dedicated to sea monsters and sorcery, Látrabjarg cliff, and Dynjandi, this epic waterfall right here:

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Of all the wonderful places to visit in Iceland, I think the Snæfellsnes Peninsula may have been my favourite.

This peninsula (located in Western Iceland) is often considered “Iceland in a nutshell” because it contains most of the incredible landscapes that make Iceland so special…

Imagine picturesque glaciers, endless lava fields, black beaches, jawdropping rock formations, cool wildlife and much, much more.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula spans about 90km, so there’s a lot of ground to cover, but it’s definitely worth a spot on your itinerary.

After all, some of the most gorgeous places to visit in Iceland can be found right here, with (relatively) fewer crowds than some of the hotter tourist hotspots in the South like the Golden Circle.

One of the most epic places to visit in this part of Iceland is the iconic Kirkjufell (best viewed from the Kirkjusfellfoss).

This perfectly pointy mountain is ripped right out of a child’s sketchbook.

I didn’t get the chance to climb it, but it supposedly takes less than two hours and offers an (understandably) epic view.

Hankering for an amazing photo spot? The little Kirkjufellsfoss offers plenty of opportunities for that perfect capture.

Another one of my favourite stops along here? Definitely the super cool Gatklettur (arch rock) , a natural stone arch found between Arnarstapi and Hellnar:

There’s also the dreamy and surreal Búðakirkja, a picturesque black church found along the peninsula’s south coast:

And the Djúpalónssandur Black Beach , which is dotted with bright yellow iron pieces from a ship wreck back in 1948:

Of course, while exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Saxholar Crater (found on the peninsula’s western tip) is a must-visit.

Its easy walking path allows you to scope out the crater up-close for spectacular views. 

A short drive away you’ll also find the Svörtuloft Lighthouse , which is a photogenic yellow gem with great coastal views and photo opps:

And lastly, there’s the Gerðuberg basalt cliffs, which are a stretch of hexagonal columns that run for about a kilometre on the southern half of the peninsula.

Hraunfossar

Also known as “Lava Falls”, Hraunfossar was one of my favourite waterfalls I saw during my trip.

You can find it in Western Iceland near Reykholt, with a gentler trickle than most of Iceland’s more powerful waterfalls, but with an electric blue colour that makes it still among the most beautiful.

Real talk though: can you  believe  the colour of this water? 

The Iceland Highlands

Dramatic landscapes are abundant in Iceland, but if you want to go really off the beaten path, then the Iceland Highlands (the 40,000km squared territory making up central Iceland) are a must visit. 

From bubbling mud pots and natural pools to volcanic craters and colourful mountains, the Highlands have plenty to offer those who are adventurous enough to seek them out.

For a detailed guide on visiting this part of Iceland, check out this excellent guide from Anywhere We Roam.

Westman Islands 

Last but not least, let’s finish off this list of great places to visit in Iceland with the Westman Islands, a set of islands found off the south coast of Iceland, often done as a day trip from Reykjavik. 

While only one of the islands (Heimaey) is inhabited, those willing to brave the the dramatic weather conditions are treated to a quieter, more remote slice of Iceland that feels a world away from the mainland.

From steep windy cliffs and scenic hikes to unique museums and puffin spotting, the Westman Islands has a ton to offer, which is why many consider to be one of Iceland’s best kept secrets.

Did I miss any of your favourite places to visit in Iceland?

Let me know in the comments! I can’t wait to go back.

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

15 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

Wild, windswept and caked with icecaps from south to Arctic north, Iceland is a land of steaming volcanos and enchanting fishing towns, rugged canyons and colossal fjords, bubbling hot springs and buzzing vodka bars. Here, we take a look at 15 of the top spots that every traveler to this Scandinavian island should have on the menu (along with the uber-fresh fish of course!).

Lets explore the best places to visit in Iceland :

1. The Blue Lagoon

Bubbling and steaming between the rocky promontories of the Reykjanes Peninsula some 40 kilometers from the island’s capital at Reykjavik , the Blue Lagoon hails in as one of Iceland’s most visited tourist attractions. Despite its volcanic nature, the site is actually very young; formed from the leftover plugholes of a geothermal power plant in the 1970s.

Still, the location amidst the ridges around Grindavik is truly enchanting, while the waters come packed with minerals – the reason for the shimmering, whitish hue of the lagoon and the driving force behind the spot’s famed healing powers. Visitors to the lagoon can also enjoy in-water massages, guided tours of the curious geothermal area and luxury lounge facilities besides.

2. Gullfoss Waterfall

Visitors will find the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall roaring over the escarpments and bluffs of south-western Iceland. It’s famed as one of the most dramatic cataracts in the world, and cascades over a series of stepped rocks and terraces before plunging over the 32-meter high crevice that gives the fall its distinct appearance of disappearing into the Icelandic subterrane.

The falls themselves can often be found arched over by rainbows or shrouded in plumes of mist, while by summer, the surrounding hills and ridges come dressed in a verdant covering of grass that makes a fine backdrop for hiking around the banks of the Hvita River.

3. Grundarfjordur

The small and sleepy fishing town of Grundarfjordur makes its home on the ice-caked edge of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where some of West Iceland’s most curious coastal formations edge their way up to the waters of the Greenland Sea.

And while hiking and cliff trekking abounds in the surrounding national park and Grundarfjordur itself is known for its earthy summer folk festivals courtesy of the local Viking Foundation, the town is unquestionably most famed as the jump off point for seeing (and photographing for most) the striking profile of Mount Kirkjufell, which lurches like a rocky shark fin amidst the waterfalls and coves of Snaefellsnes.

4. Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park

Caked in ice all year round, the soaring ridges of the mighty Katla caldera play host to Iceland’s wild and arctic Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park. This snow-packed field encompasses hundreds of square kilometers and represents the fourth-largest of its kind in the country.

It’s known for its otherworldly appearance, as verdant peaks poke their way out above the ice-carved valleys, metamorphic creations crowd above the crevasses and quick sand pools lurk on the edges of Solheimajokul – one of the most striking offshoots of the Myrdalsjokull Glacier. Guided hiking is uber-popular here, with spots like the Fimmvorduhals pass and the ridges of Eyjafjallajokull both offering daring getaways.

5. Landmannalaugar

A deep-cut valley set in the very midst of south-western Iceland’s famous Fjallabak Nature Reserve, the Landmannalaugar is a hidden gem of a destination that comes complete with everything from bubbling volcanic hot springs to ochre-coloured mountain ridges.

Hiking trails surround the entire region, while a campsite right in the middle of the Landmannalaugar and a separate mountain hut offer outdoorsy types the base point they need for hitting the famous Laugavegur trail. The piece de resistance of the area has to be the Brennisteinsalda peak though; a medley of obsidian lava sheets and iron-coloured, sulphur-spotted ridges which is viewable from the trail.

6. Reykjavik

At once sophisticated and quirky, hedonistic and happening, Reykjavik packs one hefty punch for the northernmost capital city on the planet. Its charming downtown of painted timber homes is watched over by the soaring and unforgettable needle-like spire of the Hallgrimskirkja – now a veritable icon of the Icelandic city – while oodles of hearty Scandinavian vodka bars and taverns coalesce between the streets.

Nearby, the beautiful Tjornin pool adds an aquatic edge to the town, while the Alpingi parliament building oozes 19th-century charm and the centre pulses with the likes of the National Gallery of Iceland, the Hafnarhus and the fascinating ancient ruins of the 871±2. In short, this one’s not to be missed!

7. Vatnajokull National Park

Crowned by the seemingly endless ice fields of its eponymous glacier (the largest on the continent outside of the Arctic Circle), the Vatnajokull National Park makes its home over more than 13,000 square kilometers of south-east and central Iceland. The area is famed for the great variation in landscapes, rolling from the flower-packed meadows and roaring waterfalls (don’t miss the famous Dettifoss Fall!) that run through the Skaftafell lowlands (where there are also camping sites aplenty by summer) to the windswept, crevasse-cut glacial fields on the mountaintops.

The wetlands here play host to roaming reindeer, while mighty Hvannadalshnukur (the country’s highest point) stands high and the rugged interior of the Eldgja canyon showcases some truly wondrous volcanic geology – there’s loads to see!

8. Borgarnes

Borgarnes may just look like a small dash of whitewashed timber in its position sandwiched between the coastal plains, the rising peaks of the Hafnarfjall massif and the waters of the Borgarfjordur a little north out of Reykjavik. But this humble fishing town on the edge of the sea actually has mythic roots, in the pages of the Egils Saga, and later the spot became the commercial trading centre for all of west Iceland.

That means travelers can expect an array of shopping opportunities and the likes of the Settlement Centre Museum, which chronicles the earliest days of Borgarnes, all alongside the more obvious draws of the surroundings: coastal hiking; whale spotting; those indelible hot springs!

9. Asbyrgi Canyon

Carving its way out of the rocky inland of north-east Iceland, the chiselled gorges and ridges of Asbyrgi rarely fail to draw a gasp. In all, the sheer-sided edges of the canyon run for more than three kilometers and come in at a whopping 100 meters in height at some points.

Hiking trails can be found piercing deep into the river-carved, glacial valley, weaving past tussock meadows, willow and birch groves and the ancient features of Ice Age cliffs. The spot is also shrouded in Norse legend; thought to have been created by the footfall of Odin’s mythic horse, Sleipnir.

10. Skalholt

Off-the-beaten-track and often overlooked for the southern region’s bigger pulls – the Gullfoss Waterfall and the Golden Circle – Skalholt can be found sat on the rolling fields just on the edge of the Hvita River.

Believe it or not, this small, snow-dusted centre in the wilds was actually one of the most powerful and important spots in the country from the 11th century onwards, and came to be hailed as the epicentre of Icelandic Catholicism. Today, the town is crowned by the oversized Skalholt Cathedral, which was virtually entirely rebuilt in the 1900s, complete with elegant Danish stained-glass pieces.

11. Akureyri

The self-proclaimed capital of North Iceland can come as a real surprise. Despite its humble 18,000 people, this fishing port and seaside gem of a city on the edges of the Eyjafjordur makes some serious waves. Its centre is packed to the brim with interesting independent cafes and teahouses, while the Hafnarstraeti shopping street offers up countless boutiques and craft stores.

Meanwhile, the twin spires of Akureyri Church mimic the snow-mantled summits that shroud the town on all sides, and the local craze for mayo-doused, chip-packed hamburger buns has now become a legend in its own right. Yes sir, Akureyri really is worth the visit!

12. The Westfjords

Jagged and jutting like fingers of rock and stone into the icy rollers of the Greenland Sea, the various tendrils of the Westfjords peninsula are surely amongst the most startling and worthy natural wonders in all of Iceland. A walker’s paradise, they come complete with spots like the Hornstrandir reserve, with its Arctic foxes and seal pods, and the Latrabjarg (Europe’s westernmost point if you don’t count the Azores).

Then there is gloriously-set Isafjordur, found clinging to a spit of sand on the edge of the ocean and boasting a history going all the way back to the 9th century! Sea kayaking, cliff walking and hitting the shimmering sands of Raudasandur are also all favourites.

13. Lake Myvatn

Situated just east out of the so-called northern capital of Akureyri, Lake Myvatn offers up a truly otherworldly landscape that ranges from craggy craters to curious volcanic plug holes to bubbling mud pools and oodles more. It’s thought the lake popped into existence following a volcanic eruption more than two millennia ago, and today it’s much-loved by bird watchers, hikers and adventure seekers alike.

Top attractions in the area include the Namaskard mud pools, the black lava monoliths of Dimmuborgir, hike-able Vindbelgjarfjall at just over 500 meters above sea level and the sulphuric Myvatn Nature Baths (great if you don’t want the crowds of the Blue Lagoon!).

14. Thingvellir National Park

A symphony of volcanic ridges and continental cracks, carved canyons and the flowing cataracts of the mighty Oxara River, the Thingvellir National Park is arguably the most beautiful natural enclave in all of Iceland. Not only is it easily accessible from Reykjavik, but also comes complete with totemic sites like the Silfra fissure and the Peningagja pool, a rift lake that glimmers with coins dating back more than 100 years.

Thingvellir is also a hiker’s dream-come-true, boasting rugged cliff walks and mountain climbs, while history and culture buffs will love uncovering the remains of the country’s first Viking age parliament – established here in 930.

Boasting a truly dramatic location on the small islets and finger-like peninsulas that linger in the Atlantic waters off the Hornafjordur, little Hofn is a prime example of a southern Icelandic fishing town.

As one of the favoured gateways to the wilds of East Iceland and the Vatnajokull National Park, the spot is a great choice for travelers eager to delve into some of the country’s top bucket-list natural sights, while a folk museum, the Ice Land Glacier Exhibition and arguably the best lobster eateries in all of Europe make lingering here for a day or two a fantastic way to get a feel for the rustic, salt-washed vibe of the seafaring locals.

15 Best Places to Visit in Iceland:

• The Blue Lagoon
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Grundarfjordur
• Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park
• Landmannalaugar
• Vatnajokull National Park
• Asbyrgi Canyon
• The Westfjords
• Lake Myvatn
• Thingvellir National Park

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

20 Best Places To Visit In Iceland (+ Unique Attractions)

December 27, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Iceland for your upcoming trip to the land of fire and ice? We’ve got you covered with 20 of the most awe-inspiring, unique locations all around the country. 

Iceland’s appeal lies in its remarkable natural landscape making it an outdoor playground for adventure enthusiasts. From thundering waterfalls and imposing mountains to relaxing hot springs and unusual beaches, there’s more than enough to capture your attention for the duration of your visit. 

The landscapes throughout the country vary greatly. One moment you’ll find yourself traveling through a lava rock-filled volcanic landscape, and the next you’re watching icebergs float to shore. Though this list we’ve put together of places to visit in Iceland covers only a fraction of the beauty this country has to offer, it’s a great place to start. 

Relax In The Mineral-Rich Waters Of The Blue Lagoon

As one of the most iconic tourist locations in the country, the Blue Lagoon should certainly be on your list of the top places to visit in Iceland. Relax in luxury as you soak in the mineral-rich, healing, milky-blue waters and enjoy the unique lava rock-filled scenery surrounding you. 

What once was an accidental collection of discarded water from a nearby geothermal power plant has now become a breathtaking lagoon complete with a swim-up bar along with options to pay more to enjoy the spa, restaurants, and hotels on property. Though even the base price to enjoy the lagoon is expensive, it’s worth it to have the experience at least once. 

Located nearby the Keflavik International Airport, the Blue Lagoon is a common first stop upon arriving in Iceland or last stop on the way out. Whenever you choose to visit, be sure to book well in advance as its ever-growing popularity makes it nearly impossible to book last minute. 

Where To Stay: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

Hike Through The Vast, Impressive Landscape At Thorsmork

In the summer months when the weather is favorable and road conditions are decent, Thorsmork is one of the best places to visit in Iceland. This beautiful nature preserve is a valley located in the highlands making it tricky to reach, but serene and peaceful once you’re there. 

Because the valley is hard to reach, especially for the average tourist, you must be driving a high clearance 4×4 car that is suitable for tackling the numerous river crossings and rocky terrain. Another option is to hire a local guide who will drive you in their super Jeep to make the process easier. 

Thorsmork is one of the best Iceland vacation spots for experienced hikers eager to explore the vast and rugged landscape. Consider trekking to the top of Valahnukur for particularly impressive views. 

Where To Stay: Volcano Huts Þórsmörk

Snorkel the Silfra fissure

Thingvellir National Park , along Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle route, is one of the best places to visit in Iceland for a number of reasons including the fact that you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel between two continents . 

In the national park you’ll find the Silfra fissure, the space between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Naturally filtered glacier water from Thingvallavatn Lake fills the fissure making it some of the cleanest and clearest water you’ll ever have the opportunity to experience. 

These pristine conditions make the fissure ideal for snorkeling as you can see practically everything and anything around you within 100 meters.

If you decide you’d like to take part in this remarkably unique experience, go ahead and book a tour where you’ll be given a dry suit and other proper snorkel gear and be led through the fissure by a guide. As one of the top attractions in Iceland, you’ll want to book your tour well in advance particularly if you plan on visiting during the high season summer months. 

Where To Stay: ION Adventure Hotel

Learn About Icelandic Culture And Enjoy Great Food In Reykjavik

Much of Iceland’s appeal lies in its unique, diverse natural landscape. It’s a hot spot for adventure enthusiasts who love the great outdoors. That being said, its charming capital city should not be overlooked. If you’re wondering where to visit in Iceland, Reykjavik is a great place to start . 

Reykjavik offers a wonderful glimpse into Icelandic culture, provides excellent dining options , and is the perfect spot to shop for a souvenir to take home. 

The city is full of great museums including Perlan’s “Wonders of Iceland,” the Settlement Exhibition with an excavated Viking longhouse at its center, and the Arbær Open Air Museum which provides a home for preserved old sod roof Icelandic buildings. Each museum is unique, fascinating, and highly educational. 

However you choose to spend your time in the city, a trip downtown is not complete without a visit to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church with the statue of Leif Erikson standing guard out front. An admission fee will get you to the tower at the top of the church where you are graced with a 360-degree view of Reykjavik and beyond. 

Where To Stay: Fosshotel Reykjavík

Climb To The Top Of The Cascading Dynjandi Waterfall

The Westfjords is one of the best places to visit in Iceland, and Dynjandi is arguably its crowning glory. Dynjandi is a series of seven cascading waterfalls with the largest, thundering waterfall being at the top. 

The waterfall is unlike any of Iceland’s other major waterfalls in appearance. We realize Iceland has many other spectacular waterfalls, most of which are closer to Reykjavik but the unique sight of Dynjandi is one you won’t want to miss. Reaching widths of 30-60m and a height of 100m, the waterfall streams down the mountainside like a brilliant, sparkling bridal veil. 

If you’re not in the mood for hiking, a striking view of the seven waterfalls can be seen right from the parking lot. If however you’d like to make your way to the largest waterfall and pass the other six along the way, a short but steep hike of around 15 minutes will allow you to get an up-close view of this natural beauty. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Isafjordur – Horn

Visit Iceland’s Only Stave Church On Heimaey

Vestmannaeyjar is a series of islands off the south coast of Iceland, the largest of which is called Heimaey. Its abundance of adorable puffins, fascinating volcanic landscape, and breathtaking views make it one of the best places to visit in Iceland. 

That’s not all that makes the island unique and worth visiting however. Down by the harbor you’ll find the Heimaey Stave Church, a gift from Norway to commemorate the 1000 year anniversary of Iceland adopting Christianity. 

This pitch-black church also happens to be the only stave church in Iceland. With lava rock and the ocean nearby, the whole area with the church as the centerpiece makes for a spectacular scene. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Vestmannaeyjar

Marvel At The Icebergs At The Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon And Diamond Beach

In the southeast lies the Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach , two of the most beautiful places in Iceland. At the Glacier Lagoon, deep blue and white icebergs with streaks of black float in the lagoon with a majestic glacier in the background. 

If you’re visiting in the summer you can choose to take a boat tour and explore the icebergs up close getting a more accurate picture of their size and imposing nature. This icy beauty is one of the top places to visit in Iceland for tourists. 

Across the street you’ll find Diamond Beach where the smaller iceberg chunks float up to the shore. Enjoy walking along the beach, winding your way through the sparkling icebergs. 

The black sand of the beach provides a stark contrast to the icebergs creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape. It’s particularly magical at sunset when the sky lights up and casts a beautiful yellow hue over the surroundings. 

Where To Stay: Skyrhúsid Guest House

Admire The Power And Beauty Of Skogafoss Waterfall

One of the best places to go in Iceland when driving the south coast is the thundering waterfall, Skogafoss . Iceland’s south coast is full of impressive waterfalls, and this is no exception. 

To get a taste of the size and scope of the waterfall, follow the pebble path and take a stroll up to its base. Bring a raincoat and brace for the spray that inevitably comes with viewing a powerful waterfall that close. 

Another option is to climb roughly 500 steps to the top of the waterfall. Your quads might feel the burn but the views from above are worth it. Watching Skogá river transform into a waterfall as it plunges over the edge of the cliff while birds soar by is a breathtaking experience. 

Take a moment to turn around and look back towards the parking lot and admire the sprawling landscape of the south coast while you’re at it. 

Where To Stay: The Garage

Hike To The Brilliant Blue Bruarfoss Waterfall

The size of Bruarfoss pales in comparison to many of Iceland’s other waterfalls, however its brilliant blue water cascading down the rocks makes it one of the best places to visit in Iceland. The color is so remarkable it almost looks as though it’s been painted. 

Reaching Bruarfoss required 4 miles of round trip hiking which can be a deterrent to some, but makes for a much more peaceful experience for those willing to make the trek. Your hike will take you by a couple of smaller waterfalls as well making the journey all the more worth it. 

Typing “Bruarfoss Waterfall Official Parking” into Google Maps will get you to the right spot. From there the hiking path is easy to find. 

Where To Stay: Farmhotel Efstidalur

Photograph The Postcard-Worthy Kirkjufell Mountain

Kirkjufell (Church Mountain) is one of the most iconic places to visit in Iceland. It was featured in the Game of Thrones TV show and is found on a postcard or two in every souvenir shop in the country. This cone-shaped mountain is found on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula . 

Though it’s possible to hike to the top of the mountain with a guide and some serious energy exertion, the best view of Kirkjufell is from the three-tiered Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall where you can capture the postcard image of the waterfall in the foreground and the mountain in the background. 

The landscape is beautiful at any time of year and is worth visiting multiple times to experience it in different seasons. In winter, brilliant white snow drapes itself over the mountain while portions of the waterfall freeze into icicles. In the summer, a coat of mossy green covers the landscape and wildflowers dot the scene. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Búdir

Drive The Iconic Golden Circle Route To Gullfoss, Geyser, And Thingvellir

The iconic Golden Circle route features Thingvellir National Park, Geyser, and Gullfoss, three major Iceland tourist attractions you won’t want to miss. Spanning 190 miles of Iceland’s dramatic landscape, the Golden Circle offers the perfect introduction to the natural wonders this remarkable country has to offer.

You can choose to drive the route yourself in a rental car or book a Golden Circle tour to have it all planned out for you.

Thingvellir National Park is a historic gem that provided a home for Iceland’s first parliament back in 930 AD. It also gives you the rare opportunity to cross over or snorkel through the great rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. 

At Strokkur geyser in the heart of the geothermally active Haukadalur Valley, you’ll have the opportunity to watch an impressive eruption roughly every 5-7 minutes. The area is also home to Geysir, though this geyser has been inactive for many years now making its active neighbor Strokkkur the star of the show. If you walk the area you’ll also find an abundance of rising steam and holes of boiling water. 

The Gullfoss waterfall completes this remarkable trio and is truly a sight to behold. You’ll see the Hvita River thundering down in two sections as it goes crashing into a deep crevice. As you get closer to the waterfall you’ll feel its spray. On a sunny day, you might be fortunate enough to see a rainbow span the width of the waterfall.

Where To Stay: Frost and Fire Hotel

Walk On Water On The Stokksness Peninsula

Vestrahorn Mountain (nicknamed “Batman Mountain”), with its jagged peaks, sits along the edge of the ocean surrounded by black sand, tufts of seagrass, and beautiful purple arctic lupines in the summer. This imposing mountain is located on the Stokksness Peninsula and is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland. 

An 800 ISK entrance fee paid at the Viking Café gives you access to the beach and the Viking village film set beside Vestrahorn. Though this area is stunning regardless of the circumstances, it becomes even more spectacular when a thin layer of water coats the beach right up to the mountain, and as you make your way over the sand staring at the reflection of the mountain, it looks as though you’re walking on water. 

If you have the opportunity, you might consider visiting this landscape at sunrise or sunset to see the vibrant colors frame the mountain and reflect in the water. On high aurora activity nights, you might be lucky enough to catch the Northern Lights dancing over the mountain as well. 

Where To Stay: Glacier World-Hoffell Guesthouse

Soak In The Warm Waters Of The Hrunalaug Hot Springs

Between the public pools, hot springs , and hot rivers, it’s important you pack a swimsuit for your trip. One of the best places to visit in Iceland if you’re looking for a relaxing soak in the middle of nature is the Hrunalaug Hot Springs.

A large hot pot and a smaller, bathtub sized hot pot await you surrounded by a landscape that bursts with green grasses, moss, and yellow flowers in the summer. These hot springs are becoming increasingly popular so we suggest heading there in the early morning or late evening to avoid the larger crowds. 

Though the hot pots were built up and fortified for human use, they struggle to accommodate the increasing tourist crowds and often destructive or careless behavior of visitors. Please pick up after yourself and leave the area around the hot pots (including the small changing hut) clean so others can enjoy the beauty of this unique experience as well. 

Where To Stay: Guesthouse Fludir – Grund

Hike Through A Steam Filled Valley To The Reykjadalur Hot Springs

A hike in Reykjadalur Valley has everything. It gives you a chance to explore the beautiful Icelandic landscape, stretch your legs and get your heart pumping, see a waterfall, walk through steam, befriend some sheep, and soak in a hot river. 

The Reykjadalur Hot Springs is one of the best places to visit in Iceland in the summer when the hills are lush and green and the midnight sun allows for late-night hiking in the soft glow of a sun that seemingly refuses to set. 

A 45-minute hike of moderate difficulty will take you to the bathing section of the river where cold and hot water mix to create the perfect temperature. Lining the river are wood partitions where you can change and leave your belongings, and where sheep occasionally sunbathe. 

The river is sectioned off by small rock walls with the deepest pockets and best bathing sections being right by each wall. When you’ve had your fill of the river and feel rejuvenated, you’ll make the mostly downhill hike back to the parking lot.

Where To Stay: Hotel Örk  

Take Pictures At The Sight Of The Eerie Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

There is an abundance of stunning black sand beaches all over the country, but the 1973 DC-3 Navy plane crash makes Solheimasandur Beach particularly unique. Much about this wreck remains a mystery, but we do know that everyone survived the crash and the hollow fuselage was left behind. 

The remains of the white plane lie in stark contrast to the black sand and you’re left with a rather eerie and dramatic scene. Tourists flock to the site of the wreck which remains one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. This is truly one of the best things to do in Vik!

There are a number of options for reaching the site. The first is to walk 2 miles through a flat, black rock/sand-filled landscape. Though there’s not a lot to see along the way and the wind can prove difficult at times, it’s a great way to stretch your legs and used to be the only way to reach the plane. If you’re short on time or just don’t feel like walking you can pay to take a shuttle bus to and from the site for a quick and easy trip.

Where To Stay: Volcano Hotel

Take In The Breathtaking Site Of The Tall And Powerful Haifoss

Haifoss along with its slightly smaller (but still mighty) neighbor Granni are two of Iceland’s most beautiful and impressive waterfalls . However, because they are located at the edge of the highlands and require some skillful navigating to reach, they’re far less frequented than Iceland’s other south coast waterfalls. 

Haifoss should definitely be on your list of places to go in Iceland in the summer. The roads are typically inaccessible in the winter meaning summertime might be your only opportunity to visit. Besides that, the vibrant green moss of summer gives a splash of life to the scene. 

Once you make it to Haifoss, you can take a small stroll from the parking lot to view the waterfall from a distance allowing you to capture the full image of the waterfall thundering down the cliffside. If you have plenty of time to spend at this location, you can also choose to hike down closer to the waterfall. 

Where To Stay: Rjúpnavellir

Walk Around And Behind The Towering Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

South Iceland is full of stunning waterfalls and Seljalandsfoss will be your first stop on your south coast waterfalls adventure. Seljalandsfoss is one of the most popular places to visit in Iceland because of its beauty and its proximity to Iceland’s Ring Road . 

This 200-foot stunner is easily visible from the road. A path will lead you from the parking lot to the waterfall where you can continue around the backside of the waterfall. Come prepared with rain gear because the spray from this powerful waterfall will hit you particularly on windy days. 

Surrounded by wildflowers and greenery in the summer, and sparking ice/snow in the winter, this narrow but formidable waterfall is the perfect way to kickstart your south coast adventures. 

Where To Stay: Paradise Cave Hostel & Guesthouse

Watch Crashing Sleeper Waves At The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

It can be argued that the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is not only one of the best places to visit in Iceland, it’s also the country’s most popular black sand beach. As you look out towards the raging Atlantic Ocean with basalt columns behind you, you’ll understand why. 

The area is also home to many unusual rock formations including two that rise out of the sea as well as the natural bridge, Dyrholaey, in the distance. The black sand, dark rock formations, and turbulent seas make for a stormy and somewhat ominous, but impressive scene. 

As you enjoy the spectacular scenery, be sure to stay on the lookout for sleeper waves. These large, dramatic waves are mesmerizing to watch, but they pose a threat to the unaware tourist who ventures too close. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Kría

Admire The Sheer Power And Force Of Dettifoss 

If you’re looking for powerful waterfalls that will leave you picking your jaw up off of the floor, then Dettifoss is one of the best places to visit in Iceland. By the time you reach northern Iceland you’ve no doubt seen a whole collection of impressive waterfalls along the way, but you haven’t experienced true power until you’ve watched the glacier water of Dettifoss plunge over the cliff’s edge. 

Dettifoss has been labeled the most powerful waterfall in Europe. You have the privilege of observing this beast from either side, though you’ll need to decide on a side (or choose both) ahead of time as they require different driving routes and parking lots that are an hour apart. 

If you’re looking to get right up close to the waterfall then the east side is the way to go. Either option however will allow you to experience the beauty and sheer power of Dettifoss. On both sides, just a quick walk from the parking lot will put you face to face with this impressive force of nature. 

Where To Stay: Nordic Natura

Sit And Soak In The Cascading Beauty Of Godafoss

As you travel through the north of Iceland you’ll want to take time to stop at Godafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods. This beauty is drastically different from Dettifoss, the other of North Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. 

Godafoss presents itself in a half-circle of elegantly streaming water that collects in a brilliantly blue pool at its base. It’s not a particularly tall waterfall but its unusual shape and width is where its beauty lies. As a result of its unique nature, it remains one of the most popular things to see in Iceland. 

Some of the best views can be found from the west side where you can stand or sit level with the top of the waterfall. If you’d prefer to walk down to the pool, make your way to the east side where you’ll find a path down. 

Where To Stay: Hotel Laxá

We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to explore and immerse yourself in the remarkable landscapes of Iceland. You’re in for a real treat as this country has nothing but unique, memorable experiences to offer. 

With so many spectacular sites, it’s hard to go wrong when choosing which thrilling Iceland vacation spots to visit. If you’d like some help picking the best of the best, we hope this list will provide you with the guidance you need. 

If you have any questions or comments as you go about deciding which of these locations you must see in Iceland while visiting, please feel free to send us a message below.

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This Nordic Nation Was Named One of the Safest and Most Peaceful Countries on Earth — How to Plan the Perfect Trip

How to plan the perfect trip to the land of fire and ice.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, towns and cities to know, how to get around.

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

Iceland has become one of the top adventure travel destinations in the world. Though, in many respects, it still feels like a well-guarded secret. Perhaps that's because of its bountiful natural resources, empty roads that wind through the vast volcanic landscape, or the swaths of open land with nothing but wild horses and waterfalls for miles.

Not surprisingly, most travelers come to seek out the stunning natural beauty —  from Skógafoss to Thingvellir National Park — and are ready for adventure. To that end, ecologists and environmentalists recommend not eating puffin or whale — sometimes presented to tourists — and following the leave no trace rule. That means taking all of your trash with you and sticking to marked paths to avoid harming the precious ecosystem.  

Besides unimaginable scenery, Iceland provides a wealth of local culture. It's known for having warm hospitality and a strong national pride in its history and mythology. Reykjavik, the capital and largest city brims with museums, churches, cozy restaurants, and bars. Icelanders are quite friendly and helpful. It’s the most peaceful country in the world, according to a recent Global Peace Index report, and the crime rate is extremely low. All this makes it an excellent destination for worry-free solo travel. 

Ready to plan an epic trip to the land of fire and Iceland? Scroll on for expert-approved picks for the best places to explore, eat, drink, and stay.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

A spa lover's dream, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland ranks among the most upscale and relaxing stays in the country. On the pampering side of things, it has an award-winning subterranean spa for mind-body treatments and a private lagoon fed by healing, geothermal waters. Guests also get to enjoy morning yoga, Icelandic coffee time, Michelin-starred dining, and modern suites. "The property is a great choice for the end of an Iceland trip," said Susmita Baral, Travel + Leisure 's travel editor. "Not only is it a great way to relax and indulge in self-care before returning home, but it's also just 20 minutes from the airport."

The Reykjavik Edition

The Reykjavik Edition is a luxury hotel right in the heart of downtown. In addition to a prime location, the newly built property possesses contemporary rooms and a sleek spa with a hammam, steam room, and sauna. Ryan Connolly, owner and a guide for Hidden Iceland , suggests heading up to the rooftop bar in the winter months for cocktails, a lively atmosphere, and a chance to spot the northern lights on a clear night. 

Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll

Surrounded by the remote, untouched wilderness of Iceland’s central highlands, the newly minted Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll supplies the ideal home base for adrenaline-fueled adventures. There are special packages for northern lights chasers and snowmobile enthusiasts. After all the thrills, tuck into a cozy sanctuary with neutral decor, sweeping views, and protection from the elements. "Whether you want to explore the outdoors or stay in, this hotel is truly a cozy base," said Baral. "There's even an underground passageway so you can access the restaurant and other parts of the property without stepping foot outside."

Panorama Glass Lodge

If you’ve ever dreamt of glimpsing the northern lights from the comfort of bed, Panorama Glass Lodge in southern Iceland will turn those fantasies into reality. “The tiny cabins in the middle of nowhere are completely made of glass and come with both private hot tubs and saunas to warm up on cold days and nights,” says Kyana Sue Powers , Iceland expert and travel advisor.

Hotel Rangá

Courtesy of Hotel Rangá

Imagine staying at the base of a volcano! Hotel Rangá boasts such a unique location that it's almost always booked at the height of the season. Available tours emphasize the beauty of the stars and northern lights as well as the luxurious experience of geothermal baths. It’s also a great launchpad for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking.

Golden Circle

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

The most popular tourist route in Iceland, the Golden Circle is an easy path between three stunning, famous natural spots: Thingvellir National Park , the Geysir geothermal area , and the Gullfoss waterfall. You can either drive or arrange a guided tour.

Diamond Circle

nicolamargaret/Getty Images

Located in northern Iceland, the Diamond Circle has four primary stops: Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, Ásbyrgi glacial canyon, and the fishing town of Húsavík (home to the Húsavík Whale Museum). Such scenic and cultural wonders make it one of Iceland's most popular sightseeing routes.

South Coast

Tours of Iceland’s south coast typically begin in either Reykjavik or Vík and bring travelers to many striking natural sights — namely the famous Eyjafjallajökull glacier and Skógafoss, a towering waterfall that often produces a rainbow on sunny days. Other highlights include the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Sólheimajökull glacier, and Reynisfjara black-sand beach.

Blue Lagoon

While Iceland brims with rugged adventures, it’s also a great place for relaxing. Situated in a lava field near Grindavík, the Blue Lagoon is a bucket-list geothermal spa that’s famed for its mineral-rich waters and mud. It’s the perfect spot to spend the day soothing sore muscles and unwinding. (Pro-tip: If you don't want your hair feeling like straw, be sure to lather it in conditioner when you're changing at the property.)

Ice Cave Tour

Ratnakorn Piyasirisorost/Getty Images

One of the most unique features of Iceland, the natural ice caves form in late fall, gleem blue all winter, and melt in the spring. “This makes each visit truly unlike any other,” says Connolly. Due to the rough terrain and the need for glacier safety training, it’s essential to go with a guide. “ KatlaTrack offers tours to the best and most accessible ice caves every year.”

OX Restaurant

One of the best and most unique dining experiences in Iceland, Michelin-starred OX Restaurant serves flavorful fine dining dishes in an intimate, 16-seat counter setting. “The chef doesn’t just prepare incredible food with local products but also shares the story of where the ingredients came from and the inspiration behind the dishes,” adds Connolly.

Hailed as the best new restaurant in Reykjavik by both critics and diners, Oto is a rather unique concept. “On paper, a culinary fusion of Japanese and Spanish influences made with Icelandic ingredients sounds quite unconventional. I’m this case, thinking outside the box results in some exceptional sharing dishes,” says Connolly. “Don’t forget to try the cocktails and mocktails.”

Fish Company

Tucked inside the old Zimsen building, a former store built in the 19th century, the Fish Company feels at once contemporary and cozy — a style also reflected in the seasonally influenced menu. Chef Lárus Gunnar Jónasson whips up gourmet fare with an emphasis on local seafood and other fresh Icelandic ingredients. 

You have to take a 45-minute ferry to the Westman Islands to reach Næs (pronounced like "nice"). “I make the trip time and time again because it’s such a lovely place with delicious food,” says Powers. “The sweet tomatoes and stracciatella alone are well worth the journey.

Moss Restaurant

The perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or savor a spectacular post-spa meal, the Michelin-starred Moss Restaurant occupies the top floor of the Blue Lagoon Icelandic ingredients shine in wildly creative ways through chef-prepared coursed menus — including a vegan option. "Every course was delicious," said Baral, "But I will say the cod crisps were addictive — light, crispy, and flavorful. It was created to use the entire fish and minimize food waste."

Powers advises to “ask for a tour of the wine cellar, where world-class vintages are held underground in an alcove between volcanic rocks.”

Iceland is a country of extremes in many ways. The best time to visit really depends on what you’re hoping to see and do. Peak viewing season for the northern lights stretches from September through March, but the country also gets quite cold then and daylight only lasts about five hours. Connolly also steers visitors away from attempting to navigate Route 1 between mid-October and mid-April. "Regardless of how good or skilled of a driver you are, it’s about changing weather and road closures.” 

The period between early June and late August brings temperate weather for visiting countless natural wonders. Travelers should be advised to bring a sleeping mask — at the height of summer, the sun stays up until the middle of the night. 

Icelandair and PLAY operate low-cost direct flights between many major U.S. airports and Reykjavik. You can usually score a deal, which makes a trip to Iceland — or a multi-day stopover on the way to another European destination — an economical (and exciting) option.

Reykjavik: Vibrant, welcoming, and gorgeous, Reykjavik is the capital and most popular tourist destination in Iceland. This makes sense given that it’s the largest city, close to the airport, and in the middle of some of the most famous landmarks. 

Kridtin Wongpoovarak/Getty Images

Akureyri: Sometimes referred to as the “capital of the North,” Akureyri is a port city at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord that’s home to Akureyri Church, the Akureyri Botanical Garden, and some of the best whale watching in the world, plus

Húsavík: Most people visit Húsavík to see Húsavíkurkirkja, the iconic wooden church built in 1907. Travelers will also enjoy the geothermal baths and Húsavík Whale Museum. 

Höfn: Primarily known for scenic views of the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice cap in Europe, the fishing town of Höfn in southeast Iceland also supplies shoals and beaches that make it a popular film location. 

Vík í Mýrdal: A village of just 300 people, Vík í Mýrdal (or just Vík) ranks among the most popular stops on the Ring Road for those taking the south coast sightseeing route. Two of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls — Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss — sit between Reykjavik and Vík, making the two-and-a-half-hour drive more than worth it. On clear days, the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers are visible, too. However, the biggest draw is without question the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara.

Ísafjörður: Surrounded by sweeping vistas, Ísafjörður hosts Iceland's popular musical festivals — the Ísafjörður Rock Festival and Við Djúpið Music Festival. "If you make it here, definitely visit Tjöruhúsið for a meal," said Baral. "The restaurant serves the daily fresh catch in a family-style buffet in the warmer months."

Vestmannaeyjar: A volcanic archipelago off Iceland’s south coast Vestmannaeyjar (or the Westman Islands) is accessible by ferry. It’s a must-visit to see some diverse wildlife — including puffins and Beluga whales.

Iceland has one main highway, called Ring Road or Route 1. As you might expect based on the name, it goes all the way around the island country. Many of the most famous and beautiful natural wonders sit along or near this route. Most travelers start in Reykjavik, the city closest to Keflavík International Airport (KEF), and either rent a car and do a self-drive itinerary or arrange a multi-day tour through one of the many local operators. Within the capital, it’s possible to utilize the public bus service or take a shuttle to attractions such as the Blue Lagoon.

About Iceland

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VOLCANIC ACTIVITY ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA

Since 2021, the Reykjanes Peninsula has witnessed a surge in seismic activity, including several volcanic eruptions. Despite this, Iceland has remained a safe and open destination for travelers. For a detailed look into the recent volcanic activities and their safety implications, the Icelandic Meteorological Office offers insights through this informative video.

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30 of the Best Places To Visit In Iceland

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Take a journey through these unique places to visit in Iceland with the Adventographer . Iceland has exploded in popularity as a tourist destination over the last few years. Nowadays the tourists outnumber residents nearly 3:1 in the peak summer months. But even with this huge influx of tourists and the endless information available about the country online most visitors miss out on some of the most unique places in Iceland .

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In Iceland

In this post, rather than bore you with places everyone else is talking about, we’ll explore some of the best ‘off-the-beaten-path’ and unique places to visit in Iceland. But don’t worry, we’ll check out the best places to visit that are a little more well-trodden as well. Read more at 15 Interesting Facts About Iceland

Hallgrimskirkja – Reykjavik

Located in the capital city of Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja church is Iceland’s tallest building. It is one of Reykjavik’s best-known landmarks, the Hallgrimskirkja church looms over the City Skyline. It’s visible from almost everywhere in town yet many tourists never bother to visit this brutalist church on the hill. But bypassing this structure is a mistake.

Built over a period of 41 years it resembles the impressive landscapes around Iceland. Not only does the bell tower provide an impressive sight over the expanse of Reykjavik but the interior is impressive on its own housing a 15m tall concert organ sporting 5275 pipes!

The Westfjords

One of the best things to do in Iceland is in one of the least visited regions. The West Fjords are often bypassed due to their remoteness and distance from other popular must-see Iceland attractions. Perhaps this helps to keep the West Fjords one of the best places to visit.

Due to the relative lack of tourists passing through the area, its attractions remain undiscovered by the masses. Here in the West Fjords, you’ll find sparse fishing villages tucked into sheltered coves, grand sweeping views, and landscapes that time (and tourists) have all but forgotten. And that’s about as good a reason as any to visit!

Rauðasandur Beach

While the black-sand-beach Reynisfjara is famous in the south, its pink-sand cousin Rauðasandur is unknown. This beautiful beach in the Westfjords is pink due to pulverized scallop shells. Stretching 10 km from the Látrabjarg bird cliff, it is the largest sea bird cliff in all of Europe. And it is a great place to spy puffins.

Dynjandi Waterfall

Every Tourist to Iceland knows Gullfoss waterfall but who among them knows the much more impressive Dynjandi? Dynjandi, hidden away in the West Fjords, is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Iceland . (without the crowds) Translated literally its name means ‘thunderous’ and it doesn’t disappoint!

This gargantuan waterfall is felt before it’s seen, and an impressive sight it is! Unlike other waterfalls around Iceland that commonly drop vertically, Dynjandi is a cascading waterfall. This lends to its 60m wide and 100+m tall beauty.

A short 15minute hike from the parking lot following the river and some smaller cascades will get you face to face with the fury of Dynjandi. Don’t forget your Camera! Dynjandi is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Iceland and you’ll want your photo taken in front of it for scale! Read more: Mighty Not to Miss Iceland Waterfalls

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve 

While visiting the Westfjiords, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. It encompasses 580 square km. (220 square miles). Check out: Iceland – Experience the Land of Fire and Ice

Gullfoss Waterfall

Okay, I know I said everyone knows Gullfoss, but no Iceland travel guide would be complete without mentioning the Mighty Gullfoss. Gullfoss is Iceland’s Niagara Falls and its thundering waters will terrify and delight. This waterfall plunges 32 meters (104 feet) into the Hvitá River. It is located in the Southwest of Iceland and is a popular stop on the Ring Road. It is a wonder of Iceland and truly one of the best things to do.

Iceland Phallological Museum

A weird and wonderful Icelandic museum in the Captial City is dedicated to all things phallic. You heard right… The Iceland Phallological Museum is the world’s foremost collection of phallic specimens; in fact, they have specimens belonging to all the various types of mammal found in the country!

It’s a weird, after lunch kind of stop while roaming around Reykjavik. Understandably it’s not for everyone, but if nothing else it makes for a good story to tell when you return home, and unique? Most definitely!

Strandagaldur – The Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft

The majority of Icelandic people believe in all kinds of fanciful ideas. From elves to witchcraft you’ll find a local who will swear it’s real. I can’t say I’m a big believer, but when in Rome right?

Located in the small, sleepy village of Hólmavík in Iceland’s West Fjords the macabre Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft is sure to spark your imagination or make your skin crawl.

I can’t help but think Silence of the Lambs when viewing the weirdest item in the museum, a set of trousers made from human skin. This is definitely one of the most unique places in Iceland!

• Check out the Movie Eurovision – Rachel McAdams’s character definitely believes in the magic of elves.

Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir National Park)

Located just 47 Minutes from Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park is easily accessible from the capital city. If you are traveling in clockwise direction on the Golden Circle Tours, it is one of the first stops! Thingvellir National park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historic significance where the Vikings claimed independence from Denmark. It houses the largest lake in Iceland Lake Þingvallavatn.

Located on the Rift Valley of Two Continents, many of the best things to do in the country are found right here.

Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir NP

Most visitors to Iceland don’t realize that the country is literally being torn in two continents. Sitting atop the mid-Atlantic ridge and spanning two different tectonic plates Iceland is growing at the rate of about 25mm per year. Nowhere is this more apparent than at the Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park.

Silfra fissure is the rift formed by these mighty tectonic forces at work. Here hundred-year-old glacial meltwater percolates through the porous lava rock feeding Thingvellir lake and lending to one of its world-renown qualities, visibility.

Snorkelers and divers from across the world flock to swim through the fissure, effectively floating in no-mans-land between the continents! With 100m+ visibility, you truly feel as if you’re flying, it’s only the 2°C water that snaps you back to reality. If you’re hunting for unique places to visit in Iceland Silfra is definitely one! Read all about Diving in Silfra – Iceland Underwater

Bridge Between The Continents

Continuing to play on Iceland’s stretching waistline, you can locate another part of the evergrowing rift south-west of Reykjavik on the Reykjanes peninsula. There’s no diving or snorkeling here, rather a bridge crossing the much more visible gap.

Known as the bridge between the continents it was built as a symbol of the connection & cooperation enjoyed between Europe and North America.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (Iceberg Lagoon)

Iceland is covered in glaciers, but most tourists pass them by with only a photo or a faint memory to their credit. On Iceland’s south coast lays a real treasure. A treasure where you can get up close and personal with not only Iceland’s glaciers but also the icebergs that they produce.

Jokulsarlon is an expansive glacier lagoon on the coast just a few hundred meters inland from the sea. Here while the seals play and tourists zip around on zodiac boat tours the icebergs nonchalantly bob along before being sucked out to see and subsequently washed up on the beaches flanking the lagoon.

Perhaps not as off the beaten track as the rest of these destinations, Jokulsarlon makes the list because it’s simply unique. It is truly one of the natural wonders of Iceland.

Diamond Beach

Speaking of Natural Wonders, the famous black sand beach nearby is not to be missed. While exploring Jokulsarlon be sure to cross the road and see the stunning black sand beach. 

It’s famous for the icebergs that wash up on shore as they make their way out of Jokulsarlon down the river to the Atlantic Ocean. One of the best things to do is to go for a walk along the beach at sunrise. That is when the icebergs really seem to be cluttering the shore. Both of these popular stops are located on the Iceland circle route.

Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Hiding away just off Iceland’s main ring road is Fjadrargljufur canyon. It waited here patiently in relative obscurity until thrust into the spotlight recently by Justin Beber and his hit Music video for “ I’ll Show You ”.

Fjadrargljufur is a stunningly craggy canyon jutting out from the rolling green hills nearby. This picturesque canyon is a favorite among photographers and Instagrammers. It’s easy to see why!

While it doesn’t have the scale of the Grand Canyon or the depth of Copper Canyon in Mexico its narrow width and sheer cliff walls make it stunning none the less.

Seljavallalaug Hot Spring / Hot Pool

Iceland’s oldest swimming pool perhaps isn’t something that would typically draw tourists. But when you see a photo of Seljavallalaug tucked into the hillside of a verdant, mountain-ringed valley and realize that you can still swim in this geothermally fed pool you too will want to drop your day’s plans and visit!

A short walk from the makeshift parking area next to a farm follows the river into an ever-narrowing valley before crossing the river in a few spots and delivering you to Seljavallalaug. The water is warm but not hot, and the pool makes for a great mid-day break along the south coast!

Grjótagjá Hot Spring Cave

Grjótagjá is one of the most unique hot springs in Iceland and might seem familiar if you’re a fan of the hit television series Game of Thrones. This lava cave hot spring appears in a season three episode as the setting for a much-anticipated love scene between the main characters. (John Snow and Ygritte)

While bathing here is not allowed (the water is too hot and slightly acidic) venturing into and discovering the cave comes with a high recommendation from me!

Myvatn Nature Baths

If you really do want to dip in a hot spring the Myvatn Nature Baths are just up the road and a great way to round out a day of exploring in Iceland!

Snæfellsjökull National Park

Snæfellsjökull National Park is another unique location in Iceland that gets fewer visitors than it deserves. Formed in 2001 to protect the distinct landscapes and important historical relics it also provides the infrastructure that allows tourists to access this wild peninsula.

Here you can descend into and explore an 8000-year-old lava tube at Vatnshellir Cave, climb into an extinct volcano at the Saxholl Crater and even search for puffins along the rugged black basalt cliffs of Londrangar.

The Snaefellsness peninsula and Snæfellsjökull National Park are places well worth adding to your Icelandic Itinerary!

Glymur Waterfall

Until recently Glymur was the tallest waterfall in Iceland. Simply because of this fact you’d expect it to be a common stop for visitors to the country. However, Its somewhat remote and involves a bit of a hike, so, even the tourists that do come through the area are likely to skip it. Accessible only in the summer months you’ll want to plan for a 3 hour round trip.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Beach is definitely the most famous place in Iceland. It has shown up in every Medieval and fantastic movie out there. Located beside the town of Vik, this striking coast features huge black basalt stacks. It is about 120 km from Reykjavik making it a popular day trip and it is located on the Ring Road. You’ll see many sea birds along here and it’s one of the best places to spot puffins.

Snaefellsjokul National Park

Located on the West Coast of Iceland, Snaefellsjokul national park is a must-visit on a tour of Iceland. Located on the tip of the Snaefellsjokul Peninsula it has a beautiful basalt landscape where you can explore lava tubes, the Buðahraun lava field, the Snæfellsjökull Glacier and volcano.

Vatnajokull National Park 

Vatnajokull  National Park is the land of Fire and Ice due to its volcanic activity mixed with glacier movement. It is Europe’s largest national park covering 12% of the country. It sees fewer tourists than other tourist destinations and you can take 4X4 trips, do some hiking and take guided tours onto the Vatnajökull ice cap and ice caves.  

It also houses the Dettifoss Waterfall, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. It is definitely worth the trip to Northern Iceland. It also houses the largest glacier in Europe. Vatnajökull Glacier is actually an ice cap that encompasses 8100 square km.

Asbyrgi Canyon

Asbyrgi Canyon is located in North Iceland and just 30 km from Dettifoss Waterfall. The 100 meter high cliffs form a horseshoe canyon. It reminds me of the Cliffs of Moher of Ireland (without the water of course). You can camp in Asbyrgi Canyon and it is a good place for hiking.

Lake Myvatn

When driving Iceland, many people take drive the ring road or do the Golden Circle Tour, but there is an alternative called, the Diamond Circle. Lake Myvatn is located on this circle. The unique landscape of Lake Myvatn is what makes it so interesting to visit. There are many intersting sites around Iceland’s fourth-largest lake including Dimmuborgir lava formations, the picturesque Hverfjall Volcano Crater, the geothermal area of Leirhnjukur, and the Lofthellir Ice Cave located in the Búrfell lava field.

Like much of Iceland you can take a dip in the hot springs and visit geothermal waters. The Myvatn Mineral Baths area fantastic alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

Iceland is the land of Waterfalls and our favourite was Godafoss. Located on the Ring Road or in North Iceland, Godafoss is known as the Waterfall of the Gods. It is located in Myvatn and Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland.

See the Northern Lights

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Many people plan their entire trip around seeing the Aurora Borealis.What is great about the hotels in Iceland is that they will keep a lookout for the Northern Lights and wake you up when they are active. Just let the front desk know that you are interested and they’ll make sure you don’t miss them.

Geysir Geothermal Area 

No trip to Iceland would be complete without witnessing the Geyser Hot Spring Area. The Strokker Geyser shoots 30 meters into the air. While it is a very popular stop on the Golden Circle, it is on the list because it is so unique!

Fjallabak Nature Reserve 

You May have heard of Rainbow Mountain in Peru, well Iceland has its own colorful mountains. This valley is filled with rainbow colored mountains and geothermal pools. For hiking in Iceland, this is the one to do, the Laugavegur Trail was rated as one of the top hikes in the world.

Blue Lagoon

When visiting Iceland there are plenty of “must-see” sights, there’s no arguing that. The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous hot springs. And even though it is overcrowded, no trip to Iceland would be complete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon. What makes it easy is that it is close to the airport so you can pop in before your flight out. (Like we did). The Geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon are what drew tourists to Iceland and it is worth visiting at least once in your lifetime.

Read our full breakdown of the Blue Lagoon here: How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland

But getting off the tourist trail and exploring the less known and more unique places in Iceland is sure to leave you speechless.

Some of the top things to do in Iceland (that are on the popular tourist trail are:

• Lava Fields – the largest lava flow in the world located in the south of Iceland.
• Vik Rock Formations – Sea stacks and caves
• Gullfoss Waterfall – Iceland’s most popular waterfall
• Golden Circle Route – This is the popular ring road that circles around the country
• Icelandic Horses – These horses are unique to Iceland and nothing compares to going for a ride and trying to Tolt on an Icelandic horse.
• Whale Watching and Bird Watching.

Iceland Tours

• Independent travel in Iceland is possible when renting a car but you may want to book some tours in advance if you are not driving.
• We use GetYourGuide as a tour company as it is easy to book in advance, cancel with 24 hours notice and we have enjoyed the tours we’ve taken with them.
• Golden Circle Tour – Pick up from Reykjavik and explore the highlights of Southern Iceland including the Geyser, discover where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet in Þingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall Click here for details
• Whale Watching – Húsavík as the capital of whale watching in Iceland and this is the original. If you are going to go whale watching this is a good option.

For more information on Iceland check out our Iceland Travel Guide

Enjoy perusing all these attractions of Iceland? Why not save this to Pinterest for future reference?

These are simply 13 of the hundreds of unique attractions in Iceland. We’ve barely scratched the surface of what the country has to offer.

If you get the chance to visit the land of fire and Ice I’d urge you to drop everything and take it! Iceland has quickly become one of my favorite destinations and somewhere I look forward to returning to again and again!

About Patrick

Patrick is an internationally published Canadian travel photographer and blogger from Adventographer.com who explores the world fuelled by culture, sunsets, street food, and good coffee.

He writes from a wealth of travel experiences both good and bad and endeavors to create & share unique and inspiring content from around the world as a catalyst for change with the mantra Explore.Create.Educate . Find him on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter or Pinterest

Read More About Iceland Travels

• How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland
• What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Iceland
• Iceland Pictures – Incredible Images of Mind Blowing Beauty
• The Icelandic Horse – All you Need to Know About this Beautiful Breed

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10 thoughts on “30 of the Best Places To Visit In Iceland”

thank for sharing the beauty of iceland, the picture quality and information force me to write comment. keep sharing this type of information

This article gives a clear picture of Iceland and I hope to visit this place soon. Thanks for sharing.

I am very happy to read this blog beacuse this is one of my dream place.In this article you have mentioned about the hot spring caves, glaciers, lagoons and i like it.Thanks for your blog and it did really helped me to get a overall picture.

I also explored these all fabulous places during my last journey and we acme back with stunning memories,

Nice Article! Thanks for sharing.

Are you currently blogging as a side hustle in the niche topic of “travel?”

Iceland is simply breathtaking! thank you guys for sharing this entire thing with us. I am in love with the Silfra Fissure, Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach. I really hope to visit Iceland soon. You guys are amazing travel bloggers.

I just had to double back and give you a shoutout for staying consistent with your “travel blogging.” You and someone else is quietly inspiring me to consider start heavily promoting travel related affiliate programs. But I’m deciding how to start out with the budget I have now using PPC advertising. Thank you for just being you. 🙂

Great article!

looks like a very beautiful place there my friend. The truth is, I don’t know about visiting there. I do want to travel back to Santa Barbara, California in next three years. Hopefully sooner than that. 🙂

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10 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

The Land of Fire and Ice has been calling intrepid travellers to its shores for generations. Its landscape has forged ancient lava fields, sparkling glaciers, obsidian beaches, diamond icebergs, rising mountains and cascading waterfalls.

If you’re planning a trip to this incredible country and want to know where the best places to visit in Iceland are, look no further. In this guide, we’ve compiled the legendary sites of this country as well as some hidden gems. So, if you want the know-how to build that bucket-list during a holiday in Iceland , look no further.

1. Reykjavík

While most Icelandic trips start in Reykjavík, this is not a whistle-stop city. Starting or ending your tour in its capital is a great way to understanding the country and the culture.

In Reykjavík, you’ll find fine dining, boutique shopping, and trendy bars. But its real charm is in its famed landmarks, museums, and cultural attractions.

Marvel at Hallgrimskirkja

Start by visiting Hallgrímskirkja, the celebrated church of Reykjavík, whose architecture was inspired by the volcanic landscape. Standing at 73 metres high, this is the largest church in Iceland! You can even take an elevator up the tower to get a sweeping view of the city below!

In front, you’ll find the statue of Leif Eriksson, legendary explorer, who is believed to have been the first European to land in North America around the year 1000.

See a show at Harpa Concert Hall

The Harpa Concert Hall is another architectural landmark of the city, but also serves as a cultural touchstone thanks to the numerous musical festivals and shows it puts on. No matter what time of year you come visit Reykjavík, you can be treated to operatic Viking sagas, symphony orchestras, jazz festivals, and contemporary bands.

Visit the Perlan Museum

Whether or not you’re going to tour the country to discover its rugged and beautiful landscapes, wrought by both fire and ice, then you should visit Perlan Museum whilst in the city.

This interactive museum focuses on showcasing Iceland’s natural wonders. It is the perfect place to learn and experience it all from one location.

Because Perlan sits atop Öskjuhlíð Hill, this also means you’ll be treated to a great view of the city while you’re there. This is an excellent way to kick off a tour to Iceland’s countryside.

2. Blue Lagoon

In the Reykjanes peninsula, in the south-west of Iceland, you’ll find the iconic Blue Lagoon. Gracing Instagram posts and promotional ads alike, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s premier attraction sites. And we promise you the attention is well-deserved.

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa, a hot spring fed by the nearby geothermal plant, meaning the water sits comfortable around 39°C (102°F). Set against a dark lava field background, the milky water is ethereal in contrast. Truly relaxing, beautiful and iconic, it is a must-see.

Because of its location near the airport, but also a short journey from Reykjavík, it is ideal to add on to your trip, either at the beginning or at the end of your Iceland travels .

3. Golden Circle

Whether you take the wheel on a self-drive trip  or decide to join a guided group tour , the Golden Circle should be on your road plan at least once in a lifetime. Enwrapped in this region is the historical heart of Iceland, and some of its most incredible (and famous) natural sites, including impressive waterfalls, geysers, and hot springs.

Be inspired at Þingvellir National Park

The Þingvellir National Park is a major heritage attraction, in part because of its geographical significance (it sits at the junction of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates), and because of its importance in Icelandic history. It is here that in the year 930, over 30 ruling chiefs of Iceland joined and created a rudimentary representative parliament. When you walk through this dramatic landscape, you can still see the foundations of that site today.

Heat things up with Geysir and Strokkur

Iceland is also famous for its geothermal energy and hot springs. Perhaps the most renowned hot spring is the giant Geysir. When it is active (it can be years between active periods), this geyser shoots water up into the air as high as 70m (230 feet). Nearby, you’ll find the much more reliable Strokkur geyser. It erupts every 5-10mins and can manage heights of up to 40m (130 feet).

Walk on the edge at Gullfoss

Gullfoss means ‘Golden Falls’ and its hard to argue with the name when you see this gorgeous waterfall in the sunshine. The falls are fed by the the ice tunnels of the glacier Langjökull that run to the Hvítá river, and it is a spectacular way to be introduced to the waterfalls of Iceland.

4. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

What would a trip to Iceland be without seeing a little ice? The magical Jökulsárlón is a glacier lagoon filled with electric blue and glittering white icebergs.

Watch as they drift across the lagoon and out to sea. Some even wash up to decorate the shore of Breiðamerkursandur, now famously known as Diamond Beach. For photographers, adventurers, and romantics, this is the place to be.

“I highly recommend exploring Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon by doing a boat tour on the lagoon itself. The view from the shore is amazing, overseeing the lagoon and the glacier but the experience of going in between the icebergs and sailing around the magical lagoon is otherworldly” - Helga, Travel Consultant at Nordic Visitor

5. Seljalandsfoss (and nearby waterfalls)

While touring Iceland, you’ll quickly discover why you must see so many waterfalls – that’s because each of them is unique and magnetic in its own way.

You’ll definitely want to stop by Seljalandsfoss, one of the most visited waterfalls in the country (after Gulfoss in the Golden Circle). This waterfall sits on the Seljalandsá river which flows all the way down from the famous glacier-topped Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

It’s defining trait is the shape of the cliff that allows visitors to walk behind the curtain of water. There is a footpath at the base of the falls, but make sure to be careful as the path can be slippery.

Nearby you’ll also find Gljúfrabúi, another gorgeous waterfall located inside a narrow canyon. It is truly a hidden gem, and may be worth going out of your way for a fantastic photography.

Half an hour’s drive away, you could also stop at Skógafoss, a magnificent 60-metre high waterfall where, according to legend, the first Viking settler in the area hid a treasure in the cave behind the cascade.

6. Lake Mývatn

In the north, you’ll find the other-worldly terrain of Lake Mývatn, Iceland’s fourth largest lake, which is set amongst active volcanoes. Beyond the fact that this was a filming site for Game of Thrones and many blockbuster movies, this region is home to a tremendous amount of distinct flora and fauna (ideal for keen bird watchers).

You can explore Lake Mývatn and the surrounds on a journey around the Diamond Circle .

Soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths

If you’ve been on the road for a few days and would like to relax in geothermal waters, make sure to stop at the Mývatn Nature Baths. They are, in fact, considered the north’s answer to the Blue Lagoon.

Be impressed by Krafla and Víti Maar

You’ve seen ice, now it’s time for fire! Near lake Mývatn, make sure to pass by Krafla, a caldera stretching for 10km (7 miles).

It is as collapsed volcanic area that is still active, and where you will also find the Víti explosion crater. Víti Maar, which means Crater of Hell, is now a lake of an opaque teal colour.

This land has been formed and reformed by the volcanic terrain, and its moon-like landscape is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

7. Akureyri

This delightful northern holdfast is Iceland’s second largest city. Sitting at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord, this ‘Capital of the North’ is rich in things to do.

Explore the city area

Wander the streets and you can marvel at its iconic church, visit Akureyri Botanical Gardens, and see the Laufas Turf Homes--quaint, turf-topped examples of how Icelandic homes were made in times gone by.

Go  whale watching

One of the highlights that you could get up to when you’re in the north, is to go discover its fauna.

You can go horse riding through the region’s dramatic landscape, atop Iceland’s sweet and sturdy horses.

This is also a great place to go on a whale-watching boat trip around the Tröllaskagi (Troll Peninsula) – especially if you want to take a peek at some humpback whales!

“Icelanders love to stop by the Christmas House located near Akureyri in the north. The Christmas house is the perfect place to visit in any season. There you can look at the decorations and enjoy their famous taffy.” - Helga, Travel Consultant

8. Vík

On the south coast lies the village of Vík í Mýrdal, looking out to the mighty Atlantic Ocean, nestled beside seaside cliffs. Located right by the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, this small community is a real slice of Icelandic maritime life. Wildlife enthusiasts will love to spot the Arctic tern and puffin populations that have made this part of the country home.

See coastal landmarks like Dyrhólaey and Reynisdrangar

One of the reasons Vík has become such a popular stopping point is thanks to the rock formations of Dyrhólaey and Reynisdrangar. The first is a peninsula that ends in a leaping black arch of lava, and the second refers to the incredible volcanic sea stacks that make up the daunting cliffs. This is a sight to behold!

Go hunting for the northern lights

Because the population of Vík is small, and the local light pollution is so low, this region is one of many wonderful places where you can try to spot the northern lights . Be aware that the best time of year to see the aurora borealis is in the winter months, and as it is a natural phenomenon, sightings cannot be guaranteed.

9. Snæfellsnes

The wild west also exists in Iceland! West Iceland is an off-the-beaten path region that will be worth the detour!

Known for its dramatic landscapes, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is Iceland in miniature. Stretching for 90-km long, this peninsula will show you the diversity of the Icelandic landscape as it comprises It comprises lava fields, craters, waterfalls, hot springs, basalt columns, gorges, volcanoes, and quaint fishing villages all in one.

Make sure to visit the Snaefellsjökull National Park, Iceland’s oldest national park, named after the 1446-metre-tall Snæfellsjökull stratovolcano and its dazzling glacier that dominate the landscape.

10. Vatnajökull National Park

From Snæfellsnes, the smallest national park in Iceland, we go to Vatnajökull National Park, the largest in Europe.

Feel lofty in the Highlands

Vatnajökull stretches into the highlands of Iceland, which are at its centre. The highlands are made up of volcanoes, glacial rivers, and canyons carved out by the country’s namesakes of fire and ice. If you want to see mountains, and the jaw-dropping Svartifoss waterfall, this is where you need to be.

• To really explore this off-the-beaten path region, make sure to  book a tour with an experienced driver and guide

Witness Iceland’s largest glacier!

If you come to this glorious nature reserve, you have to make time for the Vatnajökull glacier, which dominates the park, and has been carving its way through the Highlands for thousands of years.

It is also Europe’s largest glacier. It covers the area of 8000 km2, or 8% of Iceland’s landmass, while the park itself reaches to 14%!

If you come to Iceland, make sure to add some (or all!) of these to your bucket list. Most are available on our tours, and if you want to customise your itinerary to include more, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our local travel consultants who will aim to make your Icelandic dreams a reality.

Contact us for your dream Iceland trip.

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Iceland

From the northern lights to volcanic landscapes, explore iceland's breathtaking beauty with our guide to the most beautiful places to visit..

By: Shubhanjana Das Published: Feb 17, 2024 04:01 PM IST

Step into the surreal landscapes of Iceland, where nature’s wonders await at every turn, each in a different avatar of magnificence. From the captivating black sand beaches of Reynisfjara to the majestic peak of Kirkjufell, Iceland boasts some of the most scenic and beautiful places on earth that defy imagination.

Explore the vibrant city of Reykjavik, where modern art and Viking history converge seamlessly. Journey to Strokkur, where the earth comes alive with erupting geysers, or chase the elusive Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. Iceland’s glacial landscapes, volcanic marvels, and frozen beaches offer a once-in-a-lifetime and superbly memorable journey. Whether it’s your first visit or a return, Iceland’s beautiful places and their splendour are bound to enchant.

Best time to visit scenic and beautiful places in Iceland

The best time to visit scenic and beautiful places in Iceland is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is milder and the landscapes are adorned with vibrant colours. However, if you are visiting solely to witness the spectacle of the Northern Lights, the winter months are the best time to visit Iceland.

Most beautiful and scenic tourist places in Iceland

Reynisfjara.

Experience the surreal beauty of Reynisfjara’s black-sand beach, a must-visit in Iceland. With its towering basalt columns and legends of trolls turned to stone, this beach offers a glimpse into Icelandic folklore. Enjoy the graceful flight of seabirds like puffins against a backdrop of ferocious Atlantic waves. Located just a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavik or as part of a guided tour along the southern coast, Reynisfjara’s eerie yet stunning landscape has drawn filmmakers and photographers alike.

Explore the jet-black sands, basalt columns, and deep caves on foot, but exercise caution – these waters are not suitable for swimming. Complete your adventure with a visit to the nearby fishing village of Vík í Mýrdal. Reynisfjara promises a unique blend of natural wonders and mythical tales, making it one of the most beautiful places in Iceland.

How to reach: Reykjavík Domestic Airport is approximately 187.1 km from Reynisfjara

Best places to stay: Black Beach Suites

Best time to explore: All year round

Book your stay at Black Beach Suites via Booking.com

Venture 2.5 hours northwest of Reykjavik to Grundarfjördur, a quaint fishing village embraced by a scenic fjord and flanked by majestic mountains. At its heart stands the iconic Mt. Kirkjufell, renowned as one of the most photogenic places in Iceland and a prime spot for witnessing the mesmerising northern lights during winter. However, scaling Kirkjufell’s slopes demands caution; its steep trails are treacherous and should only be attempted by seasoned climbers in the summer, preferably with a knowledgeable guide.

How to reach: Reykjavik Domestic Airport is approximately 179.3 km away from Kirkjufell

Best places to stay: Hótel Búðir, Kirkjufell Guesthouse

Best time to explore: Autumn, spring or winter

Book your stay at Hotel Búdir via Booking.com

Book your stay at Hotel Búdir via Agoda.com

Dynjandi Waterfall

Welcome to Dynjandi Waterfall, the “Jewel of the Westfjords” in Iceland. Cascading nearly 330 feet like a tiered wedding cake, it’s truly a sight to behold. Accessible via a short hike, prepare to feel small as you stand beneath its thunderous waters.

Dynjandi, also known as Fjallfoss, is the largest waterfall in the Westfjords, with six smaller falls along the way. Located by Dynjandisvogur Bay and Arnarfjörður Fjord, this protected monument offers breathtaking views of Iceland’s majestic landscape. With its thunderous roar and scenic surroundings, Dynjandi is a must-visit among the beautiful places in Iceland.

How to reach: Ísafjörður Airport is approximately 57.8 km away from Dynjandi Waterfall

Best places to stay: Hótel Flókalundur

Best time to explore: May to October

Book your stay at Hótel Flókalundur via Booking.com

Book your stay at Hótel Flókalundur via Agoda.com

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Vatnajökull.

Explore Vatnajökull, a land of glaciers and magnificent ice caves in southern Iceland. Home to one of the world’s largest glaciers, it offers breathtaking experiences year-round. Visit Skaftafell Ice Cave during winter for stunning blue light. Arrange group visits off-season and consider a glacial trek for an unforgettable adventure.

Discover more than just ice rivers: Vatnajökull boasts active volcanoes , reindeer herds, and stunning waterfalls like Svartifoss and Dettifoss. Base yourself in Höfn for lobster restaurants and glacier views, perfect for exploring Jökulsárlón and other glacial wonders. Vatnajökull promises an Icelandic adventure like no other among the most beautiful places in Iceland.

How to reach: Reykjavík Domestic Airport is approximately 238 km from Vatnajökull

Best places to stay: Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Setberg Guesthouse

Best time to explore: June to August

Book your stay at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon via Booking.com

Book your stay at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon via Agoda.com

Víti Lake

Located in Iceland’s Central Highlands, Víti Crater, meaning “hell” due to its history of eruptions, harbours a stunning geothermal pool with vivid blue waters. Formed during an eruption in 1724, it offers a unique swimming experience amidst its sulphur-rich lake. Despite its remote location, the allure of outdoor swimming in Iceland’s wilds draws visitors, though caution is advised due to the absence of safety measures.

The crater spans 300 m in diameter and is a year-round attraction, showcasing varying shades of blue influenced by geothermal activity. Dive into the beauty of Víti Lake, a must-see among scenic places in Iceland, offering a glimpse into the country’s volcanic landscapes and natural wonders.

How to reach: Akureyri International Airport is approximately 215.2 km from Víti Lake

Best places to stay: Fosshotel Myvatn, Myvatn – Berjaya Iceland Hotels

Book your stay at Berjaya Mývatn Hotel via Booking.com

Book your stay at Berjaya Mývatn Hotel via Agoda.com

Reykjavik, one of the most beautiful cities in Iceland to visit, offers a vibrant start to your Icelandic adventure. Explore iconic landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja church and the Sun Voyager sculpture before relaxing in thermal pools. Indulge in local cuisine with a Reykjavik Food Walk Tour, sampling Icelandic delicacies.

Base yourself in Reykjavik’s top resorts for day trips, including the popular South Coast Full Day Tour. With its Viking history and bustling metropolis, Reykjavik holds great significance and promises diverse experiences for all travellers venturing into Iceland.

How to reach: Reykjavik Domestic Airport is the busiest airport in the city

Best places to stay: Hilton Reykjavik Nordica, The Reykjavik Edition, Tower Suites Reykjavik

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Book your stay at The Reykjavik EDITION via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Reykjavik EDITION via Agoda.com

Strokkur Geysir, a must-see among photogenic places in Iceland, offers a thrilling spectacle just a 50-minute drive from Reykjavik. As the country’s most renowned fountain geyser, it shoots water 30 metres high every few minutes.

Explore the Geysir Geothermal Area with boiling mud pits and smaller geysers. Don’t miss the chance to taste “hot spring” bread, cooked underground for 24 hours. Join the Golden Circle Classic Day Trip for an iconic geyser photo. Situated in the Haukadalur valley, Strokkur is a highlight along Iceland’s Golden Circle route, drawing visitors with its impressive eruptions every five to ten minutes.

How to reach: Reykjavík Domestic Airport is approximately 238 km away

Best places to stay: Brú Guesthouse, Svartaborg

Best time to explore: Year-round, early morning or early evening

Book your stay at Brú Guesthouse via Booking.com

Book your stay at Brú Guesthouse via Agoda.com

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Landmannalaugar.

Landmannalaugar National Park, a gem among beautiful tourist places in Iceland, boasts multi-hued rhyolite mountains and natural hot springs. Popular for hiking and horse riding, it offers breathtaking views and vibrant landscapes. The area is accessible from June to late September, with hikes ranging from a few hours to several days. Experience raw nature and vivid scenery in Iceland’s southern Highlands, where geothermal activity paints the landscape in hues of green, orange, red, black, and brown, making it a must-visit destination during summer.

How to reach: Reykjavík Domestic Airport is approximately 307.5 km away from Landmannalaugar

Best places to stay: Eyvindartunga Farm Cottage, Barn and Guesthouse

Best time to explore: July to early September

Book your stay at Eyvindartunga farm cottage via Booking.com

Book your stay at Eyvindartunga farm cottage via Agoda.com

Mount Mælifell

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mount Mælifell, a volcanic cone adorned with vibrant moss, in Iceland’s Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park. Accessible only in summer due to safety concerns, it boasts a rugged landscape with volcanoes and hot springs. The cone’s perfect shape and lush green moss create an otherworldly sight.

Nearby, Eyjafjallajökull Glacier offers thrilling snowmobile adventures. Drive by Mælifell in summer or encounter it along the famed Laugavegur Route, a popular multi-day hiking trail . This wild, volcanic terrain promises an unforgettable Icelandic adventure amidst stunning natural vistas.

How to reach: Reykjavík Domestic Airport is approximately 148 km away from Mount Mælifell

Best places to stay: Hrífunes Nature Park

Book your stay at Hrifunes Nature Park via Booking.com

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Prepare to be enchanted by Iceland’s awe-inspiring Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a natural wonder that promises a captivating experience like no other. Glide through the serene waters amidst floating icebergs of all shapes and sizes, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this glacial paradise. As you marvel at the striking blue hues of glacial caves and observe birds gracefully soaring above, you’ll find yourself in a truly magical environment.

For an unforgettable adventure, embark on the South Coast and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Day Tour from Reykjavik, which offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Discover the contrast of black volcanic sands against pristine ice formations at Jökulsárlón Beach, fondly known as Diamond Beach, where each visit promises a unique and mesmerising experience amidst the ever-changing landscape. Jökulsárlón is truly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Iceland.

How to reach: Hornafjörðu airport is approximately 73.4 km from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Best places to stay: Lækjarhus Farm Holidays, Ekra Glacier Lagoon

Best time to explore: Mid-October to March

Book your stay at Ekra Glacier Lagoon via Booking.com

Book your stay at Ekra Glacier Lagoon via Agoda.com

Related:  These Cruises Might Be The Best Way To Visit Iceland This Summer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What makes Iceland a must-visit destination for travellers? Iceland’s stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and aurora display make it a must-visit destination for travellers.

– What are the top attractions in Iceland? Top attractions include the Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik, Reynisfjara Beach, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

– How can one experience the Northern Lights in Iceland? Experience the Northern Lights by visiting during winter, away from city lights, and with clear skies.

– What are some hidden gems in Iceland that are less known to tourists? Hidden gems include Glymur Waterfall, Landmannalaugar, and the Westfjords for quieter, off-the-beaten-path adventures.

– What are the best scenic drives in Iceland? Drive the Ring Road for a full loop around Iceland or explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula for scenic drives.

– What are the most unique geological features in Iceland? Unique geological features include geysers, glaciers, volcanic craters, and lava fields scattered across the island.

– What outdoor activities are popular in Iceland’s beautiful locations? Popular outdoor activities include hiking, glacier walks, ice climbing, whale watching, and snorkelling in Silfra.

– Is it safe to travel in Iceland, considering its geological activity? Iceland is generally safe, but be cautious of changing weather, road conditions, and geological activity.

– How to plan a trip to experience the beauty of Iceland? Plan by booking accommodations, renting a car, checking weather forecasts, and prioritising must-see attractions and activities.

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Shubhanjana Das

An English Major, Shubhanjana is an independent culture and lifestyle journalist with extensive experience in fashion and travel writing. Her bylines have appeared in Vogue, Vice, FirstPost, and Mint Lounge, among others. She is a wannabe wine-taster and given the chance, wants to travel for a living and treats true crime podcasts like her lullaby. .. Read More An avid reader, Shubhanjana loves reading magic realism and surrealism literature. Read Less

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20 Hidden Gems in Iceland: Go Off-the-Beaten-Path

• 20. Reykjavik's Hidden Gem: Grotta

19. Seljavallalaug Pool

18. fridheimar tomato farm, 17. gljufrabui waterfall, 16. hvitserkur rock, 15. fjadrargljufur canyon, 14. hofsos swimming pool, 13. vesturdalur valley, 12. thjorsardalur valley and its waterfalls, 11. glymur waterfall, 10. raudasandur beach, 9. siglufjordur village, 8. kjolur road, 7. most famous unknown place: flatey island, 6. holuhraun lava, 5. stakkholtsgja canyon, 4. hvammsvik hot springs, 3. hornstrandir nature reserve, 2. thakgil campground, 1. viknaslodir hiking trails.

While Iceland is renowned for wonders like the Blue Lagoon , the Golden Circle , and the picturesque South Coast , the true charm of this island often lies off the beaten path. As you travel through Iceland's dramatic landscapes, you'll find hidden wonders all around the country.

This means that there's always a memorable experience around the corner, no matter where you're accommodation in Iceland is located. Embrace the adventure and plan a self-drive tour  to see iconic attractions and more hidden locations with our list of 20 hidden gems to visit.

Some of the attractions on our list take the term "Iceland off the beaten path" to a new meaning, whereas others are more regularly visited and thus more easily accessible with a rental car . Taking in a mix of the country's regular hot spots and some of the best-kept secret places in Iceland is the perfect way to plan your trip.

Top Self Drive Tours in Iceland

Best ice cave tour in vatnajokull glacier starting from jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 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, 20. reykjavik's hidden gem: grotta.

Believe it or not, it's possible to get off the beaten path in Reykjavik . The capital city still has a few under-explored corners left. One such example, on the Seltjarnarnes peninsula in the western part of the city, is an area named Grotta .

Grotta is, in fact, a nature reserve due to its rich birdlife. It's the best spot in town to watch the sunset as it shimmers over Faxafloi  bay or to see the northern lights within city limits.

There's even a tiny, artificial hot pool among the rocks that you can dip your feet in called Kvika foot bath. It can often be a little tricky to find, but a top tip is to remember it's near one of the little huts you'll pass by as you drive out onto the peninsula.

From May 1 to June 30 every year, there's no access to the Grotta lighthouse, as it's nesting season. However, if the weather is good, the beach right by Grotta, which stretches up near the golf course on the other side of the peninsula, can be a great spot to watch the sunset or have a picnic. Grotta is one of the locals' favorites of all the hidden gems in Reykjavik.

• For more:  Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Reykjavik
• See also: Birds in Iceland

Top Reykjavik Tours

Inside the volcano thrihnukagigur tour with transfer from reykjavik, small group tour of snaefellsnes national park with transfer from reykjavik, 2 day ice cave tour with south coast waterfalls & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Perhaps not as remote as it used to be, but still considered a hidden gem, is the Seljavallalaug  pool in South Iceland .

Driving the South Coast is popular among tourists, but no bus tours take you to this place at the moment. It makes the experience of walking into the mountains with a well-earned dip between a mountain, glacier, and a volcano all the more enjoyable. It's also one of the more unusual things to do in Iceland that you can't do in many if any, other places in the world.

Among the available pools in Iceland, the Seljavallalaug pool is the oldest and still in pretty good shape. It even has a changing room (though there are no showers). There's no fee, so just bring your swimsuit and enjoy the quietness of nature. We don't want to spoil his hidden beauty, so be sure to bring your respect and care as well.

When driving from Reykjavik, take a left towards Seljavellir before reaching Skogafoss. You'll go past a selection of cabins on your left before joining a gravel road with plenty of potholes - added fun.

Top South Coast Tours

3-day northern lights tour of iceland’s golden circle & south coast with ice caving & glacier hiking.

Photo from  Golden Circle Minibus Tour With Visit to Fridheimar & Kerid Crater Lake

Fridheimar  is an organic tomato farm in Reykholt in South Iceland, a perfect stop along the popular  Golden Circle  route. This is a family-run tomato and cucumber farm and restaurant. They use scratched tomatoes (which are unsuitable for supermarkets) to make tomato soup for lunch to reduce waste.

The soup is spectacular, and you can enjoy this experience right in the greenhouse itself. This helps keep you warm on cold winter days and provides a great atmosphere nestled among tomatoes on the vine.

These guys are all about the tomato. You can get schnapps served in a tomato, tomato ice cream (it sounds weird, but it's delicious), tomato chutney, and, of course, a Bloody or a Virgin Mary. There's also homemade bread and cucumber salsa accompanying the soup.

• Read about the Ultimate Guide to Iceland's Golden Circle  
• See also:  How to Drive Iceland's Golden Circle: A Complete Guide with Maps

The whole atmosphere is friendly, light, airy, and warm; the tomatoes must be in a warm climate and get a lot of light throughout the year. You can even get a tour of the tomato farm before your lunch.

This is a very popular restaurant because of the unique seating environment and the delicious food, so you will have to book a table in Fridheimar ahead of time to visit. You can also enjoy a stop as part of this convinient Golden Circle minibus tour , which includes a visit to the nearby Kerid crater!

Top Golden Circle Tours

8-day guided northern lights winter tour of the complete ring road of iceland.

Photo by  Jórunn Sjöfn

Next to Seljalandsfoss waterfall and another of South Iceland's hidden gems is a waterfall that many people miss. Gljufrabui waterfall is only an 820-yard (750-meter) walk away from Seljalandsfoss, next to a farm, so you have no excuse not to visit if you're already in the neighborhood.

To see the Gljufrabui waterfall, you need to walk between a couple of rocks that form a little cave entrance, and then you'll be able to stand right underneath the waterfall. Bring a raincoat; you'll get wet.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall is a significant stop on most South Coast tours , so you can make this detour during an excursion as long as you're mindful of returning to your tour bus on time.

However, if you don't want to stress with timing things right, you can take this wild South Coast tour with waterfalls and glacier hiking from Reykjavik , which includes a visit to Gljufrabui on the itinerary. Make sure you have sturdy shoes for this excursion, as it involves some stone-hopping on a fast-flowing stream.

Hvitserkur stands by itself just outside the Hunafjordur fjord in Northwest Iceland. It's only a slight detour from the main Ring Road of Iceland, in between the villages of  Reykir and Blonduos .

To reach this hidden gem, drive road 711 from the Ring Road (turn left if you're coming from Reykjavik, turn right if you're coming from Akureyri). There aren't any tours going there, so you'll have to drive yourself to get off the beaten path in Iceland. In summer, you can even do this detour from the Ring Road with a small rental car .

For those coming in the winter months, Hvitserkur can make the perfect foreground for some shots of the northern lights if you're lucky enough to get a great show. Those moments make Hvitserkur one of my favorite secret spots in Iceland.

• See also:  How to Photograph the Northern Lights

Top Summer Self Drive Tours

7-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland.

Another stunning South Iceland hidden gem not far from Ring Road is Fjadrargljufur . Some tourists refer to it as "Sweet Ass Mossy Canyon," which is a pretty accurate description.

However, it's now more known for its appearance in the hit HBO show, " Game of Thrones ." We can't guarantee dragons if you stop by for a visit, though.

The direct translation of Fjadrargljufur is "Feather River Canyon," and it's one of Iceland's most picturesque canyons. Take your time hiking up and enjoying the stunning scenery, but make sure you stick to the path. It's equally stunning during wintertime.

Photo by Robert Bye

To reach it, drive towards Kirkjubaejarklaustur village on Iceland's southern coast (use your drive time to work on your pronunciation of Kirkjubaejarklaustur!). Driving from Reykjavik, the canyon will be on your left-hand side just before reaching Kirkjubaejarklaustur (which translates to "Church Town Convent").

This village is a great base for exploring many stunning attractions, including parts of the Highlands . For example, from there, you can visit Fjadrargljufur as part of this epic 8-hour Super Jeep tour of Lakagigar craters , the site of one of the biggest volcanic eruptions in Iceland's history!

Top Activity Tours

Top-rated glacier walk in skaftafell on vatnajökull glacier, golden circle ​& snowmobiling tour with transfer from reykjavik, snowmobile tour on langjokull glacier with transfer from gullfoss waterfall.

This tiny town on the Trollaskagi peninsula next to Akureyri in North Iceland has Iceland's most gorgeous infinity pool on its hillside. It boasts a stunning view over the fjord. This is not necessarily one of the most secret places in Iceland, but if you plan to explore the North during your trip, it makes the perfect end to a long day of traveling.

Complete a day of adventuring by bathing under the midnight sun from the infinity pool, or watch in awe as the northern lights dance over the fjord.

• Explore Iceland with the Complete Guide to the Midnight Sun

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Michal Klajban . No edits made.

Many people go to lake  Myvatn , Dettifoss  waterfall, and even Asbyrgi  canyon, as they're all part of the Diamond Circle route. But if you're in this area and searching for North Iceland hidden gems, make sure to visit Raudholar and Hljodaklettar , both in Vesturdalur  valley.

They're located on Route 85 towards Husavik village, one of the best places in Iceland for a  whale-watching tour , and 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Asbyrgi canyon. If you're traveling in the area, make sure to include a stop, as these incredible, colorful locations are some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.

Photo from  Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Mickaël Delcey

Hljodaklettar ("Sound Rocks") are basalt columns of every shape and size, twisting and turning in every conceivable direction. Raudholar ("Red Hills") are colorful hills of black and yellow but mainly fiery red. There are few places in Iceland where you'll find colors as vivid as the landscape here.

A tour from Akureyri  or a tour of Myvatn can also take you close to Hljodaklettar. However, the best way to see Vesturdalur valley is by getting off the beaten track and driving yourself with a rental car. For convenience, you can even pick up a rental car in Akureyri !

Top Akureyri Tours

Whale watching tour with transfer from akureyri, lake myvatn sightseeing & hot springs tour from akureyri, northern lights hunt from akureyri.

Thorsardalur  valley is full of gorgeous waterfalls often missed by tourists. The waterfall inside Gjain  canyon is one of them, although the canyon itself is pretty spectacular, too. Haifoss  waterfall is Iceland's third-highest one at 400 feet (122 meters) tall, and the smaller  Granni waterfall is just a stone's throw away. Both are beautiful hidden gems in South Iceland.

Then there's Hjalparfoss  waterfall (its name translates to "Help's Falls") that's a little further down the valley. Lastly, there's Thjofafoss, which translates to "Thief Waterfall." It's on the other side of the mountain Burfell and well worth a visit.

All of these waterfalls are in the same area and can easily be reached on Routes 32 and 26. They're all about a 74-mile (119-kilometer) drive from Reykjavik. You'll need to rent a 4x4 Jeep to access Thorsmork, but be aware that you must cross the dangerous Krossa river, which should not be attempted by those not used to such a driving challenge.

We recommend skipping the drive and taking a tour instead. For example, you can visit the area with this Thorsmork valley Super Jeep and hiking tour .

Top Highland Tours

Landmannalaugar super jeep tour with pickup from reykjavik, landmannalaugar super jeep tour with pickup from the south coast or reykjavik, thorsmork valley super jeep & hiking tour.

Photo by  Jorunn

When the Hvalfjardagong tunnel opened back in 1998, the distance from Reykjavik to Borgarnes was shortened by approximately one hour since people no longer had to drive Hvalfjordur  fjord ("Whale fjord"). Nowadays, it's not as common to drive this gorgeous fjord, so if you want to get off the beaten track in Iceland, Hvalfjordur is a must.

At the bottom of the Hvalfjordur fjord, you'll find a trail leading to Iceland's second tallest waterfall,  Glymur , which is 650 feet (198 meters) high. It used to be thought to be the tallest in Iceland until it was surpassed by Morsarfoss in 2011. The name Glymur translates to "Echo," and for a good reason.

Iceland is very famous for its sandy black beaches. However, you can also find white beaches in the country and even the beautiful Raudasandur red beach in the Westfjords. The color can play tricks on your eyes; it may seem white, orange, yellow, or very red, depending on the natural light. This apparent color change can make Raudasandur beach one of the most magical places in Iceland.

There's nothing there besides the sand, so if you want to go to a tranquil beach - no vendors or shops to distract you - Raudasandur delivers. You can go for a walk all by yourself, which makes for a fantastic, non-touristy thing to do in Iceland and a unique experience.

Photo by  Regína Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir

If 6 miles (10 kilometers) of sand isn't enough for you, travel a little further and go to Latrabjarg cliff , where thousands of puffins reside in the summer months. It's the largest seabird cliff in Iceland and one of those hidden gems in Iceland that make you forget about everything else outside of the moment.

The best way to get to Raudasandur is to either drive all of the Westfjords or take the Baldur ferry from Stykkisholmur to Brjanslaekur and drive from there. The area is usually inaccessible during wintertime, so it's best done as a summer self-drive tour . It's also advisable to rent a four-wheel drive car to best cope in the Westfjords.

• See also:  Where to See Puffins in Iceland

Siglufjordur is a cute little town that used to be the world capital of herring fishing and the fifth-largest town in Iceland. It's found at the northernmost tip of the Trollaskagi peninsula (close to Hofsos pool). Siglufjordur is nestled in a small fjord, surrounded by mountains on three sides. It's remote and overlooked, but some of Iceland's best-hidden gems are found here.

The town's location is somewhat inaccessible, making you feel like you're in a remote place at the end of the world, despite only being a 48-mile (77-kilometer) drive from Akureyri. And if you're wondering where to stay, explore the range of  accommodations available in Siglufjordur . You can even stay at the charming Siglo Hotel for a luxurious experience.

Top Hotels in North Iceland

When the highland roads are opened in the summertime, it's a good idea to drive the  Kjolur  road. It's only accessible with a four-wheel drive vehicle. On the way, you can either make a stop at Kerlingarfjoll mountains,  Hveravellir  hot spring fields, or both.

The road is Route 35, the same road as Gullfoss waterfall. It connects the north and the south of the country and lies between Langjokull  glacier and Hofsjokull  glacier. The highlands in between are sandy but full of hot springs, some of which you can bathe in, and provide some excellent hiking trails.

This six-day highland self-drive tour includes Kjolur, Hveravellir, and Kerlingarfjoll, taking advantage of some of Iceland's less visited natural attractions. It's also a great way to experience Iceland off the beaten path.

A visit to Flatey island is like stepping back in time to Iceland in the 1900s. Its name translates to "Flat Island" and is the easiest name to say of anywhere in Iceland you'll visit!

This small island in Breidafjordur  bay has seasonal habitation. Flatey gets a little busy in the summer, especially with photographers ("a little busy" means a few dozen people or maybe 100). But in winter, only six people reside there.

Surprisingly, many concerts are held on the island, with an event happening almost every week of the summer. It's probably the most famous unknown place in Iceland.

There's one road on the island, but no cars are allowed – it's only 1.2 miles (two kilometers) long and a few yards wide. Even more shocking, there was no cell phone reception on the island until recently.

Stroll around the island, have a peek into the church and the small library, watch the sea and the birds, clear your head, relax, and even say "hi" to the elves. If you're feeling peckish, don't miss out on the fish of the day at Hotel Flatey .

To get there, take the ferry Baldur from Stykkisholmur on the Snaefellsnes peninsula or from Brjanslaekur in the Westfjords. If you're driving around Iceland, you can take your car onto the ferry, and they'll deliver your vehicle at the other end of the bay (in either Stykkisholmur or Brjanslaekur). You can pick it up later in the day, or even some days later if you spend a few days on the island.

From Stykkisholmur, it's 1.5 hours on the ferry, and from Brjanslaekur, it's just a one-hour journey. You can also include a visit in your tour of the Snaefellsnes peninsula as a day trip from Stykkisholmur.

Photo from  Super Jeep Tour to Askja Caldera & Holuhraun Lava Field with Transfer from Myvatn

The new addition to the Icelandic landscape is the lava field at Holuhraun , where a volcanic eruption occurred from August 2014 to February 2015. The area is very much off the beaten track, and you'll need a powerful four-wheel drive vehicle to reach it. It's simplest to visit with a guided tour, like this  Super Jeep tour to Askja caldera and Holuhraun lava field , which departs from lake Myvatn.

Holuhraun is also a candidate for the most famous unknown place in Iceland. Here, you'll be able to feel the newly formed rough lava and see nature in its most raw form. Holuhraun is easily one of the more unique things to do in Iceland and should not be missed by anyone who wants to get off the beaten path here.

• For more:  15 Incredible Photographs of the Holuhraun Volcano in Iceland
• See also:  The Most Infamous Eruptions in Icelandic History

Top Volcano Tours in Iceland

Classic 1 hour lava tunnel caving tour of the raufarholshellir lava tubes.

Photo by  Regína Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir  

This stunning canyon is close to Thorsmork, and if you hike it for about two hours, you'll reach a waterfall deep inside it. It's an easy hike that's suitable for the whole family.

When there are about 330 feet (100 meters) left to the bottom of the canyon, it splits into two parts, and you'll need to wade through a river to reach the waterfall at the end.

Exploring any canyon in Iceland is always a treat, but this one, for the variety and photo opportunities, is one of the best. File under: Another one of the most beautiful places in Iceland.

Top Hiking & Trekking Tours

6 hour super jeep glacier hiking & ice caving tour in vatnajokull with transfer from jokulsarlon.

It's a 45-minute drive away from the city center, and you can visit with this relaxing half-day soaking tour at Hvammsvik , which includes a transfer from Reykjavik. You can also go by yourself with a rental car and book your Hvammsvik Hot Springs admission online.

Photo from  Relaxing Half-Day Hot Spring Soaking Tour at Hvammsvik from Reykjavik

The Hvammsvik Hot Springs is a must-stop when driving the Hvalfjordur fjord, and can be the perfect place to relax if you plan to hike up the nearby Glymur waterfall. They also have an on-site café where you can enjoy a well-earned treat while relaxing.

If you're visiting Iceland in winter, you can even enhance your experience by embarking on this small group Hvammsvik Hot Springs tour with dinner and a northern lights hunt . If luck is with you, you're in for a very magical night!

• See also:  The 30 Best Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools in Iceland

Top Hot Spring Tours in Iceland

Quick blue lagoon shuttle bus transfer from reykjavik, blue lagoon comfort ticket.

The most inaccessible part of Iceland is Hornstrandir , the northernmost tip of the Westfjords. This is about as off the beaten path in Iceland as it gets. No roads lead there, so you can either hike for a week from the end of the road (near Krossnes farm) to get there (plus another week to get back) or take a boat from Isafjordur.

There are no shops or villages, and cell service is unreliable, so be prepared with any supplies you may need if you intend on staying there for a while.

This is also where Iceland's biggest arctic fox colony lives, so try to spot some gorgeous foxes in their natural element. Remote wildlife experiences like this are one of the unique things to do in Iceland that leave a lasting impression long after you have returned home.

A six-day tour option around Hornstrandir will help you make the most of this stunning region. It's truly one of Iceland's hidden gems.

Top Wildlife Tours

The reykjavik whale watching tour, family-run husavík whale watching tour.

Photo by  Alda

Thakgil ("Roof Canyon") is a gorgeous camping ground in South Iceland. This area is not far from the village of Vik .

If you're heading East, turn left after about 3.7 miles (six kilometers) after leaving Vik. Drive along that road for approximately 8.7 miles (14 kilometers), past the abandoned film set, until you reach a lush green flat valley surrounded by rugged mountains and small rivers.

The area is very sheltered from the wind, and there's even a cave to dine inside. You'll need to drive yourself to get there, but the journey is certainly worth the effort.

• See also:  Thakgil: a beautiful hidden gem in South Iceland

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Michal Klajban

Deep in East Iceland, the area around Borgarfjordur Eystri  contains one of Iceland's best hiking areas: Viknaslodir  ("Trails of the Inlets"). A five- to 10-day hike around the area is recommended.

The hike from Borgarfjordur Eystri down to Seydisfjordur town is usually done in four days and is 34 miles (55 kilometers) in length. This is the same as Iceland's most popular hike, Laugavegurinn .

Along the way, you'll see stunning mountain views, valleys, and fjords. Perhaps the most spectacular attraction in the area is Storurd , a gorgeous blue lake covered with giant rock boulders.

When it comes to East Iceland's hidden gems, Viknaslodir is one of the most rewarding and should not be overlooked. Don't skip this place if you want to explore Iceland off the beaten path.

Top Eastfjords Tours

Thrilling 3 hour super jeep tour with glacier snowmobiling on vatnajokull, admission to the serene vok baths of east iceland near egilsstadir.

Additional Tips for Reaching the Hidden Gems of Iceland

To reach most of those hidden places in Iceland, renting a good four-wheel drive vehicle is best because you'll most likely be driving on unpaved gravel or mountain roads. This is also the best way to get off the beaten path in Iceland and is highly recommended.

It's also advised to get full insurance cover options (especially gravel insurance) to ensure you're covered in an emergency.

A final tip is to always focus on driving safely, wearing your seatbelt, and keeping an eye on both the weather forecast and the  accessibility of the roads .

• Read the Ultimate Guide to Driving in Iceland
• Read about How to Drive Safely in Iceland  
• Find out more about the Weather in Iceland & Best Time to Visit  
• Read about What to Do and Where to Go in Iceland  

We hope you enjoyed exploring our hand-picked top 20 list of hidden gems in Iceland. Will you visit any of these spots? Will you go on a guided tour or drive yourself? We'd love to answer any questions you might have and hear about your experiences in the comments below.

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14 things to know before visiting Iceland in 2024

Feb 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Here's everything to consider when planning your trip to Iceland © Cavan Images / Getty Images

The number of visitors to small, ravishingly beautiful Iceland is soaring.

But this tiny country wasn't always so popular, and there are many important things to be aware of ahead of your visit. In these wild landscapes, small errors can lead to life-threatening situations for both the visitor and the search and rescue operations mounted to save them. 

This handy guide will help first-time visitors avoid social embarrassment, travel responsibly and have a safe and informed trip.

1. Keep up-to-date on Iceland's volcanic eruptions

Travelers heading to Iceland in 2024 will be aware there has been a series of volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula in south-west Iceland, not far from Keflavik International Airport, the main entry point to the capital Reykjavik . No flights have been affected so far, and the rest of Iceland is safe to visit.

The volcanic activity has only affected the town of Grindavik and the local area. All roads to Grindavik and the surrounding area are closed due to danger related to new crevasse openings. Hiking in the area is also prohibited. Icelanders have asked "lava chasers" to respectfully stay away.

The Blue Lagoon , one of Iceland's most popular attractions, also closed for a series of days due to seismic activity in the area but has since reopened.

The UK Foreign Office recommends checking alerts and advice from  Icelandic Met Office  and  Safe Travel Iceland . 

2. Use common sense to stay safe in the wild

Some tourists have been a little foolish in Iceland's incredible landscapes. Visitors have been seen strolling onto the  Sólheimajökull glacier in sneakers and light jackets; a family attempted to drive across Langjökull  glacier in a small SUV. We've also watched a teenager jump into 2°C (35°F) waters at Þingvellir National Park for a dare and witnessed tourists being sucked into the waves at black-sand Djúpalónssandur beach, one of Iceland's best .

Though Iceland's dramatic terrain can be perilous, there are usually no safety rails beside cliff edges and no ropes alongside plummeting waterfalls. Icelanders prefer not to mar beauty with obvious signs, or railings, instead they rely on people to be smart. If there are signs or barriers, heed them!

3. Plan ahead when hitting the road

Having your own wheels in Iceland is a wonderful treat: it allows you to roam the grand countryside at your leisure. Always prepare before setting out: investigate driving times and road conditions (via the Icelandic Road Administration ), weather forecasts, safety issues and, if you're walking in nature, trail conditions and requirements.

Plan an itinerary that's realistic for you. Ask locals, who will know the tricks and troubles of each place. You don't want to be caught on a hillside in fog or sleet (whether on foot or in your car) with no food and water and no idea how to get back to safety.

Safe Travel is a site run by ICE-SAR (Icelandic Search & Rescue), with travel and weather alerts and information, a smartphone app (useful in emergencies) and procedures for filing a travel plan.

4. Do not drive off-road

Never drive off-road. It's illegal and incredibly damaging to the fragile environment. Cavalier tourists leave tracks where they've flouted the rule, and those tracks entice others to do the same. Even with a 4WD, stick to marked roads.

5. Always shower with soap before taking a dip in hot springs

Part of the unique gift of Iceland's volcanic landscape is the excellent natural hot springs you'll find from the town center to the fjord side. It's practically a national pastime to hit the local hotpot, soak and gossip. It is, however, an absolute mandatory hygiene and etiquette rule to wash thoroughly with soap before donning your swimsuit to enter the hot springs and pools.

Most pools are untreated with chemicals, so cleanliness is a real factor. Whether you're at the famous Blue Lagoon  or the remote Krossneslaug, there's no quicker way to disgust an Icelander than to jump in dirty. You should also take your shoes off and put them on the rack provided as you enter the changing room.

6. Dress appropriately for hikes and pack proper outdoor gear

Bring good maps and appropriate gear, plus (you've heard it before): common sense. Consult a proper hiking or cold-weather packing list. Consider this – if you had no access to a car or building, would you be warm and dry enough in what you are wearing?

Never go hiking in jeans. Don't climb on glaciers without proper guidance. Don't try fording rivers in subcompact cars. And don't go camping without hardcore waterproof tents. With proper gear you can relax and enjoy all that beauty, no fear required.

Being prepared can open up great wilderness areas such as the Westfjords' beautiful Hornstrandir Nature Reserve , known for its Arctic foxes, spectacular birding cliffs and unspoiled hiking and camping.

If you need additional equipment once in Iceland, Reykjavík has a bevy of suppliers for gear purchase or rental, including  Fjallakofinn .

Another good information source is Ferðafélag Íslands (the Icelandic Touring Association), which runs many huts, campgrounds and hiking trails.

7. When driving, stick to the right road for your vehicle

Know which roads are accessible in the type of vehicle you're driving. Beyond Iceland's main Ring Road (Route 1), fingers of sealed road or gravel stretch out to most communities until you reach the F Roads, bumpy tracks only passable by 4WD.

F roads are truly unsafe for small cars. If you travel on them in a hired 2WD, you will also invalidate your insurance. Steer clear, hire a 4WD or take a 4WD bus or super-Jeep tour. Similarly, trying to ford a river in a 2WD vehicle or low-slung 4WD is asking for trouble.

8. Take a tour of the more remote or dangerous landscapes

Iceland's tour operators are a professional and knowledgeable bunch and can get you out into rugged country via super-Jeep, amphibious bus, snowmobile, helicopter and more. Going on a tour can offer insights and guidance through dangerous landscapes you shouldn't tackle alone.

9. Understand the impact of tourism on Iceland

Iceland has a population of around 366,000. Before travelers started arriving in droves (with numbers that topped 2 million per year in 2019), most Icelandic sights , from thundering waterfall Skógafoss and basalt beach Reynisfjara to the wild interiors at Landmannalaugar & Þórsmörk, had no need for big car parks, safety placards or hordes of park rangers.

Developing an infrastructure that can cope with its appreciative new visitors while maintaining the untouched feeling of one of the world's most unique landscapes has been a major challenge for Iceland.

10. Travel responsibly and sustainably

Remember the basics of responsible travel: don't litter, reduce your environmental footprint, leave places better than you found them, and protect wild animals and natural flora. This applies to popular sights like the Golden Circle as well as the wild interior where it's just you, the glaciers and volcanoes.

11. Appreciate the open-minded creativity of Icelanders

Icelanders are a generally hardy and open-minded group with a dry but vibrant sense of humor. They tend to speak impeccable English and are game for a chat, or to tell you about their favorite places to go. Respecting local etiquette and laws (along with not whingeing about the weather, or how hard it is to get to the natural wonders) will go a long way in endearing you to them and open opportunities for local connections.

They are also broad in their curiosities – it seems like half of Icelanders are in a band or making some sort of art or craft. They're used to thinking big and having fun. Why not get out there and join them.

12. Take the weather seriously

You may encounter bus tours and droves of visitors in popular places, but Icelandic weather is highly volatile, no matter where you are. A sunny day can quickly turn to snow flurries, and the stakes get even higher as you head into the true wilds. Never underestimate the weather – plan ahead with forecasts from the Icelandic Met Office .

13. Remove your shoes indoors

Icelanders often remove their shoes when they head inside. Pack flip-flops or slippers for indoors.

14. Yes, you can drink the tap water

It's pure and wonderful; Icelanders will look at you askance if you ask for bottled water.

This article was first published July 2015 and updated February 2024

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Tiny Footsteps Travel

Best Places to Visit in Iceland in 2024

Choosing the best places to visit in Iceland is no easy task. Iceland is abundant with otherworldly, natural beauty.

There are thousands of waterfalls, oceanside cliffs, unique rock formations and deep canyons and volcanoes. Some of the terrain looks so surreal, almost like its from another planet.

If you’re an outdoorsy person, you will especially love Iceland, since most of the Icelandic attractions involve the outdoors. You could spend all day outside in Iceland, taking in the gorgeous views and taking part outdoor activities, like hiking, kayaking, rock climbing and even snorkeling.

From two different road trips in Iceland at different times of the year, we’ve been lucky to explore the country extensively and want to share the best gems to see while you’re there.

Whether you’re sticking to south Iceland (which is the most common tourist itinerary) or venturing west or north – there are incredible places to see in Iceland.

So, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Iceland, and what you need to know about them.

Best Places to Visit in Iceland

You may find that there are more places to see in Iceland than what you could possibly fit into your trip – and that’s ok. It may not be possible to see all of these places unless you have at least a month in Iceland. But regardless of the places you choose, you will not be disappointed.

1. The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a loop just north of Reykjavik. The whole loop is 230 km (140 miles) and takes 3 hours to drive without stopping – but you will definitely want to make stops.

The stops you can make along the Golden Circle include some of the most famous, sought after places to visit in Iceland – the geysir, the Gulfoss waterfall, and the Kerið crater.

We split our Golden Circle trip into two half days, as we were staying nearby. Overall, you only need about one full day to explore the Golden Circle. This gives you enough time to enjoy your time at the stops and not feel rushed.

Here’s a bit more detail about the highlights on the Golden Circle that you’ll want to check out.

• Kerið crater, with its blue water and red sand. It’s quite large in person, and we walked down to the water’s edge
• The Geysir – it shoots out of the ground every 15 minutes or so, and its surrounded by other hot springs.
• Gulfoss Waterfall , which has a a few walking paths and allows you to get very close to the plunging water

We drove the Golden Circle as we’d rented a car, but there are also day tours from Reykjavik that take you to the highlights.

2. Black Sands Beach

The black sand beach isn’t just one beach as many think, but a series of beaches along the coast of south Iceland that span 180 km (112 miles). The sand is black because of volcanic rock that formed thousands of years ago.

The most popular place along the black sand beach to check out is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, which is famous for having the large basalt columns right along the shore.

We were lucky to be able to get close enough to the basalt columns to sit on them, but sometimes when the tide comes in strongly, this isn’t possible.

Either way, its still worth taking a walk along Reynisfjara beach; admiring the basalt columns, the ‘three trolls’ rock formations which you can see near the shore. There are also areas where you can drive over top to get a bird’s eye view from above.

In addition, I recommend devoting at least a day to the town of Vik, as there are a lot of things to do there besides the black sand beach- more on that below.

Vik is a town less than 1 km away from Reynisfara Black Sands beach mentioned above.

Even though the town only has 300 people and is very small, there are a lot of things to check out in the area besides the black sand beaches – there’s a lava show, the Katla Ice Cave, excursions to the Sólheimajökull glacier, and some decent restaurants (Icelandic and international food.)

One thing underrated about Vik was walking along the black sand beach right in front of it (pictured above) called Víkurfjara Black Sand Beach. It’s a short walk to the Reynisfara Black Sand beach where the basalt columns are.

We were the only ones on Víkurfjara beach, and there are such beautiful views of the town of Vik and the green mountains behind it (pictured above.)

Read my post on things to do in and around Vik to find out more.

4. Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (often just called Glacier Lagoon) and Diamond Beach are probably the two most iconic places in Iceland – they’re located along the southeast coast, and are practically just across the street from each other.

Diamond Beach looks like a regular beach, but has numerous chunks of ice scattered along the shoreline, resembling ‘diamonds.’ We spent a few minutes here, admiring the view and taking photos of the ice chunks – and this was in August (the ice chunks never melt.)

Glacier Lagoon is larger than Diamond Beach, and requires a bit more time spent. We sat on the shore of the lagoon, eating Icelandic hotdogs (I had a veggie hot dog) from a food truck on-site.

You can do boat cruises, and kayak tours in Glacier Lagoon to make your time there even more exciting.

In total, you need 1-2 hours to spend at both, Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, possibly more if you want to get into a boat.

It takes around 5 hours to drive to Glacier Lagoon from Reykjavik, but I wouldn’t recommend driving straight there, as there are lot of amazing places to see along the way.

Not driving? You can also book a day tour from Reykjavik to Diamond Beach and Glacier Lagoon , which will stop at many of the gems along the way.

Book your day trip to Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach from Reykhavik here

5. Skaftafell Nature Preserve

Skaftafell is a scenic area within Vatnajökull National Park, which is located just off the Ring Road 1, in between Vik and Glacier Lagoon.

Skaftafell National Park has a few of Iceland’s records – the tallest mountain (Hvannadalshnúkur), the largest glacier (Vatnajökull), and beautiful Svartifoss waterfall.

You need to walk for about 1 hour on an easy trail on a gravel ground to get to the Svartifoss waterfall pictured above, but of course, the views are worth it.

It’s possible to only spend a couple hours at Skaftafell National Park; visiting the waterfall and enjoying the views.

There are also some hikes and trails you can do in the park. If you want to add those in, then I would give yourself at least a day to spend at Skaftafell.

6. Thörsmork

Thörsmork, (sometimes written as Þórsmörk) is apart of what we call the Icelandic highlands, and is one of the most popular places to go hiking in Iceland.

Thörsmork has beautiful, dramatic terrain – tall cliffs, windy rivers and green moss-covered mountains in the spring and summer.

Thörsmork is home to the well known Laugavegur Trail , which the most popular hiking trail in Iceland which is hiked by over 100,000 people each year. The trail is a long, multi-day hike through rugged terrain.

There are also some shorter, more easygoing hikes in Thörsmork, such as the Mount Valahnúkur  trail which is a 4.3 km (2.3 mile) route. Check out this helpful blog post on hikes in Thörsmork.

Good to Know: Since Thörsmork is in the highlands, you would need to drive on a F-road which requires a 4×4 vehicle and is really only possible during the warmer months, (and even then it is risky.) In the winter, the F roads are usually closed. I would highly recommend taking a bus or super jeep if you want to go to Thörsmork, as the drive is challenging to do on your own.

7. Studlagil Canyon

Stadlagil Canyon is a beautiful gem in the east of Iceland. The water of the river is turquoise, and its surroundings of the tall, linear basalt columns is so beautiful and unusual looking.

Some walking is required to get to the canyon; about 4 km (2.5 miles) and it took us about 45 minutes from the parking area. At certain times of the year, you can climb down to the water-level area to get a closer look at the river.

In the winter, you may have to settle for only seeing this gem from the top area of the cliffs, but rest assured – its still gorgeous, and worth your time.

There is free parking and toilet facilities (available at surcharge) on site.

8. Reykjavik

I always recommend devoting a day or two to Iceland’s capital when you’re in Iceland.

Reykjavik, being the largest city in a country of only 300,000 people, has great museums, cultural landmarks, the famous Hallgrímskirkja, and some scenic views as well.

Reykjavik with kids, or just a group of adults – you’ll find lots to do. When we were in Reykjavik, we did the following which I’d recommend:

• Visit museums: Perlan Wonder’s of Iceland, the Whale Museum, and the Settlement Museum
• Go shopping on Laugavegur street
• Do all or parts of the 5 km (3 mile) walk along the sea wall, enjoying views of the harbour and the Sun Voyager sculpture
• Visit the Hallgrímskirkja (the tallest church in Iceland at 244 ft) and climb to the top – you can get great views of the city

We spent a total of two days in Reykjavik, and felt it was enough time to sufficiently do all of the above without feeling rushed. However, one day is probably enough; especially if you’re only doing some of the above attractions.

9. Perlan – Wonders of Iceland

I mentioned a few museums to visit in Reykjavik, but Perlan deserves a special mention as a place you don’t want to miss while you’re in Iceland.

At Perlan, you have the opportunity to learn some of the interesting science behind the phenomenas that occur in Iceland, such as glaciers, Northern Lights and ice caves.

Perlan has a planetarium with an Aurora show – its narrated by the Aurora Borealis, as if the Aurora are talking right to you.

There’s also a man-made ice cave, so if you didn’t get to experience an ice cave while in Iceland, this allows you to see what its like to be inside one.

All of us, between the ages of 7 and 60 really enjoyed Perlan, it was one of the highlights of our time in Iceland. We spent about 3 hours there, and I would recommend setting aside at least that amount to explore this gem.

Grab your  advance tickets for Perland here , including the planetarium and ice cave

10. Husavik

Husavik is a city in northeast Iceland, and known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Even though you can do whale watching tours in Reykjavik, Husavik is more famous for it.

In addition to whale watching, Husavik is a cool town of 2,700 people to check out – it has a walkable downtown, a nice harbour and the Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths nearby.

Husavik is also the starting point for the Diamond Circle, which is a 250 km loop which takes you around Lake Mývatn to see several waterfalls, and a canyon. Along the Diamond Circle, you can see:

• Dettifoss and Goðafoss waterfalls
• Ásbyrgi Canyon

Husavik is the perfect place to visit if you want to explore North Iceland. Its location in northeast means that you either need to drive or fly there from Reykjavik.

11. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is an underrated attraction in south Iceland, but is well worth pulling over from the main Ring Road.

Fjaðrárgljúfur is a large, deep canyon with unique shaped rocks, and a river flowing through it. You can walk along a boardwalk along a cliff at the top of the canyon, admiring the canyon from several different viewpoints.

Give yourself at least an hour at the canyon. The boardwalk is an out and back loop, so we turned around and went back the same way we came to get back to our car.

My 7 year old was getting sick of stops and wasn’t keen, but we were so glad that we found this place off-hand and stopped here. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is definitely something you don’t want to miss on the Ring Road 1.

12. Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park (also spelled Þingvellir) is the only UNSECO World Heritage Sight on mainland Iceland. Its the only place on Earth where you can stand between two continents – North America and Europe – at once.

Thingvellir was also used in an epic Game of Thrones scene – fans might recognize it as the area where Brienne of Tarth battled against the Hound and won.

Its part of the Golden Circle mentioned above, so it is sometimes used as a stop on a Golden Circle Tour.

We went for a short and easy hike in Thingvellir while we were driving around the Golden Circle. There is also a really cool opportunity to go snorkeling or diving in Silfra , which is the rift right between the two continents.

The water in Silfra comes from Langsköl Glacier nearby, and whether you get into it or not, you will see that it is extremely clear, and you can see over 300 feet away.

Thingvellir is just a 45 minute drive from Reykjavik, and one of the most sought after places to visit in Iceland. If you’re going to be visiting the Golden Circle, then I would check out Thingvellir as well!

13. Snaefellsness Peninsula

The Snaefellness Peninsula is breathtaking route to discover on Iceland’s west coast. It’s name means “snow-mountain”-peninsula, and many people say that it has all the best of what Iceland has to offer.

We agree. What makes Snafellness Peninsula one of the best places to visit in Iceland is because you can see a lot in a short amount of time . While many parts of the Ring Road can be boring, the entire Snafellness Peninsula feels like driving through a painting.

Some of the things you can expect to see on the Snafellness Peninsula are:

• The Gerðuberg Cliffs (more on that below)
• Lýsuhólslaug swimming pool , heated with geothermal energy and has incredible surrounding views
• A large ravine called the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
• Sönghellir Cave (“singing cave” in English)
• Snæfellsjökull National Park, where you can hike a glacier
• Kirkjufell Mountain (which was used in Game of Thrones )

The entire Snafellness Peninsula only takes 2 hours to drive, but that’s without stops. The stops will require many hours, so I would pick and choose the ones you’re most eager to see to make a 1 or 2 day journey on the Snafellness Peninsula.

You need a minimum of 1 day to see everything in the Snafellness Peninsula. We spent one day, but there was so much to see, that I felt that we could have easily done a second day.

So I would definitely include the Snafellness Peninsula in your itinerary if you have at least a full day to devote to it.

14. Skogafoss and Seljandsfoss Waterfalls

The reason they’re lumped together is because they’re quite close to each other.

Skogafoss has an area where you can climb to the top for a view of the water plunging over the cliff. And Seljandsfoss is one of the only waterfalls in Iceland where you can walk behind the waterfall.

They’re perfect for if you’re driving from Reykjavik to Vik. Most tours from Reykjavik that explore south Iceland stop at these two waterfalls. They’re some of the most famous, but also best waterfalls in Iceland.

Both waterfalls have large parking lots, and are just a stone’s throw from the parking lot. They’re both popular, so you’re likely to see other people, regardless of what season you’re in Iceland.

Check availability for seeing Seljandfoss and Skogafoss on a day trip from Reykjavik

15. Blue Lagoon

There are many hot springs in Iceland, but Blue Lagoon deserves a special mention. It’s a large man-made pool, but heated with geothermal energy. Even though the pool is artificial, its in such a natural setting that it feels like it’s feels like its naturally occurring.

The water is warm, its like sitting in a giant hot tub. There are swim-up face mask and smoothie bars. The face masks feel great on your skin and I’d recommend them.

Blue Lagoon is also a spa which makes award winning skincare products, which aren’t cheap. I own the award winning eye serum, and the face cream (luckily, I got them on sale.) Blue Lagoon skin products make great gifts or souvenirs from Iceland if you buy them directly from the Blue Lagoon.

The nice thing about Blue Lagoon is that its so close to the international airport, that I always recommend to do it right before or after your flight (ideally after.) Blue Lagoon makes a perfect first stop in Iceland, and allows you to refresh after your flight.

In addition to the spa and hot spring, there’s also gourmet cuisine and luxury accommodations on-site at Blue Lagoon.

16. Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel

Iceland has dozens of tunnels through lava caves, which were formed by hardened, fossilized lava.

Raufarhólshellir is the longest lava tunnel in Iceland, its open year-round and is conveniently located just outside Reykjavik.

Similar to ice caves and glaciers, you cannot enter a lava tunnel without a guide. Equipment is provided with guided tours, and they last about 1 hour long.

There is normally some time left over after the guided part of the tour for you to take photos and selfies inside the lava cave.

Check availability for the lava cave tour at Raufarhólshellir here

17. Raudasandur (Red Sand) Beach

Unlike the south coast of Iceland with its black sands beach, here you can see an example of a red sand beach.

The best thing about the Red Sand beach is the open, vast beauty. You can take a leisurely walk, enjoying the views of the blue sky along the orangey sand, listening to the waves, and see very few other people.

The sand on the beach isn’t always as red as the name implies – the temperature of the day can affect the colour.

The best time to visit the red sand beach is in the summer, with a low tide. This is the only time I’d recommend heading to red sand beach, because high tide would make it hard to walk along it.

Pro Tip: There is a quaint French-style café that serves Icelandic waffles overlooking the red sand beach, but its only open during the summer months. It’s called Franska kaffihúsið . No website, but you can follow them on Facebook!

18. The Diamond Circle

The Diamond Circe is another circle route in Iceland that takes you along one of the northern tips.

The Diamond Circle drive is a perfect place to visit in Iceland if you’re visiting either Husavik (the whale watching harbour town which is along the circle) or Ayukeri, which is the largest city in northern Iceland.

The Diamond circle loop is 250 km and can be done in about 4 hours, without stops – so you will need at least a full day to see the highlights.

There are a number of gems to check out on the Diamond Circle, such as:

• Dettifoss waterfall, which is the second most powerful in Europe
• Goðafoss waterfall (pictured above) which translates to waterfall of the Gods. It has less volume of water than Dettifoss, but it is slightly prettier in my opinion
• Husavik village (if you’re not already staying there – book a whale watching tour while you’re at it)

Read this guide for more ideas of things to see on the Diamond Circle, as there are too many to name. It’s a beautiful scenic drive that is well worth your time.

If you’ll be spending time in North Iceland, then the Diamond Circle is one of the best places to see.

29. Seyðisfjörður

Iceland has many small villages, and we drove through many of them on our journeys. However, none of them compare to Seyðisfjörður.

Seyðisfjörður is said to be Iceland’s cutest small village , and for a good reason. It has colour, creativity, great restaurants, and the famous rainbow street.

Very few tourists actually make it to Seyðisfjörður because of its location on the east coast (its very much out of the way, unless you plan to do the full Ring Road.)

However, don’t let this fool you – even with a small fraction of tourists coming to Seyðisfjörður; it is still a lot of people so this small town (once a hidden gem) can now get quite busy in the summer months with both Icelanders and international tourists.

However, if you do make it out to the east coast, by either driving or doing a tour – I would highly recommend a stop in this picturesque village.

Here are some reasons (aside from the rainbow road) I consider it to be one of the best places in Iceland:

• Admire the art and hadicrafts. Seyðisfjörður is a creative, artsy town. The rainbow pavement was painted by its own residents
• Take part in the Lunga festival, which happens every July
• Dine in some of the restaurants. Despite being such a small town, Seyðisfjörður has great places to eat year round. Click here to read about which restaurants are open at the time of your visit.

Best Places to Stay in Iceland

There are a ton of epic places to stay in Iceland, but these options below make a good home base for exploring many of the highlights of Iceland that were mentioned above

• Budget: The Swan House Apartments  located right downtown in Reykjavik,
• Mid Range: Hotel Laxnes located in a small town off the Ring road, close to Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and accessible to south Iceland attractions
• Luxury:   Iceland SJF Villa  – A 3-bedroom villa just 3.5 km (2.4 miles) from downtown Reykjavik, so its good for exploring Iceland’s capital, the south coast, the Golden Circle and the west fjords. It has a garden and terrace with views of the sea

Places to Visit in Iceland FAQ

Here are the most commonly asked questions about the best places to visit in Iceland, and how long you need in order to see them

What is the most beautiful part of Iceland?

The most beautiful part of Iceland is likely the south coast, with the West Flords being a close second. Everywhere in Iceland is beautiful, of course. But south Iceland has a lot of the most dramatic and idyllic Icelandic scenery – black sand beaches, waterfalls, glaciers, the Icelandic highlands and volcanoes.

Which part of Iceland is best?

If you only have a short amount of time to spend in Iceland, then you should spejd your time in either south Iceland or the west fjords. South Iceland has more variety, but longer distance between attractions. The west fjords allow you to see more in a short time.

Is 7 days enough to visit Iceland?

Yes, 7 days is enough time in Iceland to see many of the highlights. It’s not enough time to drive around the full ring road, but its certainly enough to drive the entire south coast (ring road 1) which is where most of the spectacular things to see are located.

Final Thoughts on Best Places to Visit in Iceland

By now, you know the best places to visit in Iceland. Regardless of where you go in Iceland, you won’t be disappointed when it comes to the things to do outdoors, and the beautiful scenery.

The only thing that might disappoint you sometimes about Iceland is the weather. Wherever you go, (even during the summer) be sure to bring layers and warm clothes. Even the summer months can be surprisingly chilly by North American and mainland European standards.

Splash Travels

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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Northern Europe and the British Isles

A Smithsonian magazine special report

Made Possible Through the Support of

Travel | January 26, 2024

Get an Eyeful of Iceland in These 15 Photos That Capture Its Natural Beauty

These selections from the Smithsonian magazine photo contest will transport you to the small Scandinavian island

A church with a red roof and steeple sticks out against the sprawling landscape as the sun pokes through the hazy clouds.

Photographs selected by Jeff Campagna

Text by Tracy Scott Forson

It’s known as the Land of Fire and Ice for a reason. Sitting atop a volcanic hot spot, Iceland is a geographical contradiction. The frigid temperatures, icy landscape and glaciers coexist with some of the most active volcanoes in the world. A day of hiking up snowcapped mountains might end with a warm dip in a hot spring. Iceland also boasts one of the world’s few black sand beaches and its own equine breed. Curious yet? Satisfy that curiosity. Take a look.

Get the latest Travel & Culture stories in your inbox.

Jeff Campagna | | READ MORE

Jeff Campagna is a photo editor at Smithsonian magazine. You can follow him on Instagram at @jeffcampagna .

Tracy Scott Forson | READ MORE

Tracy Scott Forson is a senior editor at Smithsonian magazine.

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

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By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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The 10 best countries for solo travel – and top tips for travelling alone

From welcoming japan to adventurous iceland, here’s our pick of destinations for lone globetrotters, article bookmarked.

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While travelling with friends, family or a partner can be a great way to spend quality time with loved ones, embracing alone time can open the door to a wealth of new cultures and experiences .

Solo holidays can range from short-haul city breaks to bucket-list backpacking adventures and active excursions closer to home.

But where to start? Holidays for a party of one are more popular than ever in 2024, though inconsistent pricing and solo supplements can be discouraging for those new to lone adventuring.

And, while solo travellers may end up  paying more  for holidays thanks to single occupancy rates, the freedom of choice without the burden of compromise is thrown in for free.

From dining with the locals in Vietnam to guided tours of the Golden Circle in Iceland , there are myriad destinations well-suited to travellers looking to go it alone.

Here are some top countries for solo travel, plus tips to plan and execute a successful trip of self-discovery.

Read more on solo travel :

• The solo holiday destinations in the UK for a singles getaway
• The best US cities for solo female travellers you might not have considered
• Why Greek island-hopping is a gentle way to ease back into adventures

Best for: Singles city breaks

What better way to kick start a solo adventure than with a long weekend in a city that embraces the essence of  hygge  (a feeling of comfort and contentment)? Alfresco summers meet cosy winters in Denmark and, while Scandinavian prices can be eye-wateringly expensive, it’s not impossible to pull off a city break on a budget.

Eastern capital Copenhagen is consistent in its happy atmosphere, low crime rate and world-renowned cuisine. From budget hot dog stands laden with pickled condiments to the tasting menu at three Michelin-starred restaurant Geranium, gourmet food joints pepper the candle-lit streets. Experience “faellesspisning” or communal eating – affordable bites in the charming company of strangers – if you’re a solo traveller looking to socialise.

Make your money go even further by joining in with laid-back Scandi culture and renting a bike, staying in buzzing hostels such as the central Danhostel and purchasing a Copenhagen Card to get money off attractions, including a boat tour of the city’s canals.

Free activities such as walking along waterfront neighbourhood Nyhavn and catching a summer sunset from the opera house are also facilitated by an efficient ‘S-tog’ train network and buses.

And there’s more to Denmark than its effortlessly stylish capital. Visit Odense for a Hans Christian Anderson literary experience fans of The Little Mermaid will love, and take in the multitude of architecture in the old Viking fishing village-turned-second city, Aarhus, for an insight into to Danish history.

Best for: Solo island hopping

Thailand is a welcoming haven for single party animals or beach bums travelling the well-trodden backpacking trail through  southeast Asia .

A solo slice of Thai comes with an affordable price tag once you’re there. Trains, buses, long-tail boats and tuk-tuks transport travellers to the street food of lively night markets and cooking schools well versed in pad Thai and gaeng daeng for just a few pounds, while there are plentiful cheap and cheerful hostels to stay in, helping solo travellers meet new people and save in accommodation costs.

Culture-stacked cities like  Bangkok  meet jungle-clad interiors in a fusion of thrilling nightlife, rejuvenating yoga ashrams and authentic Buddhist temples.

Island hopping across isolated archipelagos is also often a staple of a tourist’s Thailand itinerary. With 1,430  islands  to choose from, including  Phuket  and the Phi Phi on the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea, try Koh Samui for safe, sociable hostels including  The Rock Samui  and catch the ferry to Koh Phangan to experience festival-style nights at a bucket-list full moon party.

Best for: Personal safety

Find peace of mind travelling alone in clean, safe cities as you experience first-hand the Japanese culture of kindness and respect. Crime and harassment are rare and the efficient train network even features women-only carriages .

Master of hi-tech and hub of creative fashion, Tokyo is the ideal place to start your first solo trip to Japan, but its glitzy tapestry of skyscrapers and all-night karaoke isn’t the only bit you should experience.

Venture to Kyoto via the revolutionary bullet trains to regroup in the ethereal landscapes surrounding Mount Fuji. In spring, the city is awash with pink as the cherry blossoms bloom and rural temple tours tempt visitors into serene Japanese gardens to experience customary tea ceremonies. Ski slopes in Hokkaidō are also great for snowsports enthuiasts.

While not the cheapest destination for holidaymakers on this list, travellers can save on expenses by picking up food from Japan’s extensive variety of vending machines, 100-yen stores and Japanese Rail passes . Capsule hotels like the Nine Hours chain and traditional ryokan rooms with hot springs offer classic Japanese zen in rural areas and the city at affordable prices.

What's more, eating alone is celebrated as the norm at casual restaurants familiar with seating tables for one, while language difficulties are usually met with polite patience.

Best for: Short-haul travel

Swerve language barriers and long stints in the air with a holiday to visit our  Irish  neighbours. The Emerald Isle has forged a reputation as a home from home for British travellers, whether they get there by hopping on a ferry or a flight.

Crumbling castles, rambling countryside and live music await; from  Dublin  to Cork and Limerick, cosmopolitan cities sit side by side with verdant landscapes blessed with an abundance of  walking  and cycling routes that are fun to explore as a lone ranger.

Dublin houses more cultural wonders than the famous Guinness Storehouse – nurse a  proper pint  in traditional old-stone Dublin pub away from tourist favourite, Temple Bar, and discover why the Irish capital is the Unesco city of literature.

Eslewhere, solo day trips can include the beauty of the Cliffs of Moher and the busy shops of Graton Street. The best way to get around is by car, and hiring your own is advisable for road trips to more remote areas such as  Galway  and the Aran Islands.

Best for: Social travellers

A favourite with backpackers,  Vietnam’s  well-established tourist route takes the hassle out of planning for solo travellers eager to buddy up along the way.

Hue’s imperial citadel, capital  Hanoi’s French colonial villas, wartime relics including the Cu Chi tunnels, blissful beaches on Phu Quoc Island and rainbow lanterns at Hoi An’s monthly full moon festival all make Vietnam a compelling destination.

Solo tourists can hop on the back of a motorbike with a local for a tour of the chaotic  Ho Chi Minh City , or cruise to the limestone islands of Unesco-listed Ha Long Bay on targeted excursions for like-minded travellers.

In this wallet-friendly southeast Asian country, easy-to-navigate transport networks, overnight buses that take you down the otherworldly coast, and a sociable, hostel-heavy accommodation scene with bargain price tags add up to a destination that’s ideal for lone travellers keen to make friends.

Best for: Self-discovery

Canada , famed for its friendly people with a knack for warm hospitality, is the ideal place for a lone globetrotter to switch off and get back to nature.

Th world's second biggest country balances cosmopolitan cities with unspoilt, remote wilderness. You’ll be greeted with trendy bars in Toronto and the urban oasis of Stanley Park in waterfront Vancouver , while road trips across the North American giant take you through expansive landscapes, mountain peaks and dazzlingly blue lakes.

A treasure trove of outdoorsy activities can be enjoyed year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in Whistler to kayaking, ice hockey and hiking amid the enchanting glacial lakes and grizzly bears of Banff National Park and the vast Rocky Mountains.

Best for: Off-grid adventures

Iceland is guaranteed to squash any feelings of boredom with its extensive menu of outdoor activities, from snowmobiling to horse riding and hikes in the rugged volcanic landscape.

Aptly nicknamed the “Land of Ice and Fire”, Iceland is a playground for nature enthusiasts to go off-grid solo. Black sand beaches, waterfalls, sapphire glaciers and the geysers of the Golden Circle ring road are all natural thrills in this largely safe and friendly country.

Think whale watching during the midnight sun, hunting the colourful waltz of the Northern Lights and the famous milky waters of the Blue Lagoon spa on a solo city break to the capital, Reykjavik .

Best for: Female solo travellers

In the heart of Europe, Slovenia’s small size and charming spirit make it a hit with female solo travellers.

A fairly priced public transport network facilitates travel between cities and English is widely spoken, enabling easier exploration of Slovenia’s beautiful scenery.

Leafy Ljubljana , the capital, is a tangle of terracotta riverside cafes, markets and family-owned restaurants offering sheep cheeses, struklji rolls and orange wines.

But Slovenia’s crowning jewel is its famous lakes fringed with traditional, pretty villages. Lake Bled, for example, is home to medieval castles, wild swimming opportunities and traditional plenta boat rides.

New Zealand

Best for: hiking holidays.

There’s nowhere like  New Zealand  for a hiking holiday off the beaten path, and it’s ideal for solo adrenaline seekers, thanks to its peaceful and safe reputation.

The English-speaking Pacific paradise offers working holiday opportunities for those looking to secure a travel visa, plus bucket-list activities such as helicopter rides, whale watching and bungee jumping fill a prolonged stopover.

From the home of  hobbits in Rotorua to cruising to the waterfalls of Milford Sounds by boat and exploring the Maori culture of vibrant Christchurch, New Zealand is well worth the ultra-long journey.

In between days spent amid its film-worthy natural landscapes, head to Auckland to climb Mount Eden and the Sky Tower for panoramic city views, or visit the fine wine regions of Waiheke Island, known for their Sauvignon Blancs.

Best for: Culture and cuisine

An unspoiled country closed to tourists until 1974,  Bhutan  is a surprisingly popular destination for a solo holiday.

With a confection of cultural wonders in lush green valleys, fortresses and traditional villages, the Himalayan country appeals to single travellers lusting to step back in time.

Find Bhutanese-style red-roofed houses in the quiet capital of Thimphu, yak herding in Laya and the cliff-hugging Tiger’s Nest Monastery at home in harmonious Paro – not forgetting delicious momo dumplings.

The landlocked nation is ideal for trekking after the 403km long Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022; the mountain kingdom can be explored on private tours with a local guide.

Bhutan’s Buddhist culture has a focus on sustainability that permeates all levels of life, particularly in strict tourism regulations. Factor the country’s steep  tourism tax , designed to deter budget travellers and preserve Bhutan’s heritage, into your trip costs –now $800 (£627) for a traveller staying eight days.

Top 10 tips for solo travellers

• Do your research: take your time to plan ahead before leaving for a solo trip
• Be safety conscious: don’t share your specific location online while you’re still there, be aware of your surroundings and stay connected with people at home about your travel plans
• Be flexible: spontaneous plans are sometimes the best kind and things going “wrong” often lead to the most memorable experiences
• Try something new: whether local cuisines or a new activity, push yourself out of your comfort zone to get the most out of travelling solo
• Stay in a hostel: this can be the best way to meet new and likeminded people for social butterflies
• Learn to love your own company: there’s a freedom to alone time
• Practice local phrases: a “please” and “thank you” in the local language go a long way
• Utilise public transport: don’t blow your budget on Ubers and taxis if you don’t have to
• Bring back-up: printed documents, portable chargers, emergency cash and travel insurance are solo travel essentials
• Don’t overpack: don’t fall at the first hurdle by bringing your entire wardrobe

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Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

• 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
• Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
• A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

Related stories

While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

• Main content

Where to See Your Next Eclipse, From Iceland to Australia

By Maya Silver

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The totality of an eclipse is never long enough. My first total solar eclipse experience in 2017 made for the shortest two minutes of my life: the sun transforming into a blazing diamond ring, the beautiful delirium of darkness, that perfect circle in the sky. Before I knew it, the eclipse was over—and my friends and I were plotting how we could catch our next.

During my second total eclipse in Ohio, I savored nearly double that time—four minutes of totality. Those extra moments gave me time to tune into the full sensory experience. As birds slowed their songs, crickets filled the false twilight with their chirping. All the people around me fell silent amid the cool, still air, and the corona of the sun radiated and wisped above. It wasn’t long after those beautiful four minutes ended that I began scheming, again, about my next opportunity to relive the cosmic experience. Now, I’ve fully embraced my identity as an umbraphile —literally, a “shadow lover,” but better known as someone who chases total solar eclipses.

For umbraphiles like myself based in the United States, the next total solar eclipse to hit the US is in 2033—although it will only grace the western half of Alaska , along with Russia . In 2044, another total solar eclipse will swoop across Canada into Montana and the Dakotas . The next “Great American Eclipse” to cut across a wide swath of the nation won’t arrive until 2045 , though that one will stretch all the way from Northern California to Florida , across Utah , Colorado , Georgia , and many more states.

If you can’t bear to wait more than two decades for that stunning event, the good news is that many more eclipses will occur before then—you just have to go abroad to catch them. Whether you saw the 2024 total solar eclipse and are eager to plan your next trip to the path of totality, or you missed it and want to discover what all the hype is about, consider this your guide to seeing a total solar eclipse in the next four years.

In 2026, travelers to Iceland will have the chance to catch the solar eclipse and northern lights on one trip.

August 12, 2026: The Arctic, Iceland, and Spain

Your earliest chance to catch another total solar eclipse is August 12, 2026 , when the path of totality will curve northeast across the Arctic Ocean and south through remote eastern Greenland , terminating in the Balearic Sea just east of Mallorca . While there are several worthy destinations for umbraphiles during the 2026 eclipse, the totality experience will be relatively short, lasting only 1-2 minutes, depending on where you are within the path.

One spot to add to your eclipse planning list is Western Iceland , where you may also be able to catch Northern Lights on your trip to enhance the cosmic experience. The capital of Reykjavik sits on the edge of totality, making it a fine and accessible viewing destination. The downside? Totality will only last a minute there. To extend the experience, head about three hours west by car. Snæfellsjökull National Park —a seaside park named for a volcano and glacier—will experience 2 minutes and 10 seconds of totality. Stay in the nearby hamlet of Búðir, about 30 minutes away. Or head to the village of Patreksfjordur in the Westfjords, about a five-hour drive from Reykjavik for a similarly longer totality.

If a more Mediterranean eclipse experience appeals, the spot to be is Spain. The path of totality will also clip northeastern Portugal . In northern Spain, the medieval cities of Oviedo (1 minute and 49 seconds totality) or Burgo (1 minute and 44 seconds totality) are good places to watch, right in the center of the totality path. For a more urban experience, consider Zaragoza (1 minute and 24 seconds of totality) or seaside Valencia (1 minute totality).

Perhaps the most unique place to take in the 2026 eclipse in Spain is upon the island of Mallorca. Partying in Palma, reveling in secluded beaches, or overlooking the sea upon the island’s limestone cliffs would all make enviable ways to take in the 1 minute and 36 seconds of totality. With around 300 days of sunshine annually, Mallorca is also a safe bet for clear skies. If you prefer to leave the planning to the pros, consider a guided eclipse trip through a company like Sirius Travel , which is also offering an Iceland eclipse trip. Note that some other guided 2026 eclipse tours are already sold out , so don’t wait to reserve.

One of the most unusual places to witness an eclipse is aboard a cruise ship , and there are already several potential options available—after all, this eclipse is only a couple years out and plans are underway. Bundle up and hop aboard the Greenland Solar Eclipse cruise hosted by Albatros Expeditions . The 13-day itinerary includes a tour of fjords and glaciers, a visit to Nuuk, and of course, the 2-minute, 17-second totality experience (starting at $19,600 per person). Cunard is offering three solar eclipse cruise experiences : one through Norway and Iceland, and two more near Spain and the Mediterranean.

Luxor, Egypt, will see over six minutes of totality during the August 2027 eclipse.

August 2, 2027: Northern Africa and the Middle East

Just a year later, another eclipse will travel across Northern Africa and the western edge of the Middle East —this one with a prodigiously long totality time. The eclipse will cross over the southern tip of Spain and Gibraltar, which will enjoy 4 minutes and 28 seconds of totality.

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

Across Northern Africa, several cities make excellent viewing points. The beaches of Tangier , Morocco, will take in 4 minutes and 50 seconds totality. In Tunisia , the ancient oasis of Gafsa will clock over 5 minutes of totality.

For the longest totality time, consider Luxor, Egypt , which will see a stunning 6 minutes and 22 seconds of darkness, likely amid sunny skies. This is only about a minute shy of the known record for longest totality time : 7 minutes and 28 seconds, back in 743 B.C. Besides, could anything eclipse the mystical sight of a pyramid than a literal eclipse darkening the skies above the Ancient Egyptian monuments?

Cruises and guided tours for the 2027 eclipse are also already on offer. Take a cruise through the Mediterranean with Eclipse Tours and witness totality at sea (starting at $4,999), or tour Morocco and enjoy the eclipse from a beach with Astro Tours (price unlisted).

Head to New Zealand's Otago Peninsula in 2028 to experience three minutes of totality.

July 22, 2028: Australia and New Zealand

If you can wait four years, consider an eclipse trip to Oceania . This eclipse will traverse central Australia and southern New Zealand , and there are many incredible spots to consider within the path for your viewing experience, whether you prefer to dance in the darkness or be immersed in the wild.

In Australia, Sydney is smack dab in the middle of the 2028 path , with 3 minutes and 49 seconds of totality. While no festivals or events are in the works yet, have no doubt Australia will rise to the occasion. For a more nature-based experience, consider the ancient rock formations and trails of Mirima National Park ; stay in the nearby town of Kununurra. This area will enjoy just under three minutes of totality. Of course, an Australia eclipse-themed cruise already awaits, too, though the eclipse itself is to be viewed on land (starting at $14,500).

In New Zealand, enjoy nearly three minutes of totality include Queenstown and Dunedin. Take in the New Zealand eclipse from the stunning shores of Lake Wakatipu of Queenstown, where you can chase the rush of an eclipse with one of the world’s highest bungee jumps . Amid the Scottish-meets-Maori heritage of Dunedin, bookend the eclipse with a visit to the Larnach Castle or the Otago Peninsula and its penguins.

Tips for planning an eclipse trip around the world

You’re not the only traveler drawn to the elusive experience of a total eclipse—which is why places in the path of totality tend to experience a massive spike in tourism . Lodging books early, prices surge, rental cars run out, and those who fail to plan in advance are often left high and dry—or forced to spend a small fortune.

My advice on preparing for an eclipse trip in the US applies doubly when it comes to an international voyage to the path of totality. Here are a few key pointers before you plan your trip, whether to the Arctic, Spain, Egypt, or Australia:

It’s never too early to book: Some tours are already sold out, while hotel reservations are sure to go fast. Make your reservations as soon as you can, especially for the 2026 eclipse—you can always cancel later if your trip falls through. This applies to rental cars and flights as well.

Give yourself a buffer around the eclipse: Don’t plan to show up the day before the eclipse or day of, nor should you plan to depart the day of or day after. Adding some wiggle room will allow you to maximize the serenity of the experience, rather than sabotage it with the chaos of eclipse travel.

Get to your viewing spot at least a few hours in advance: This way your plans won’t be foiled by any unexpected traffic, you can find the perfect perch, and you’ll have time to set up any camera tripods or telescopes.

Hold on to your eclipse glasses—or buy them early: Don’t plan to pick up a pair at your destination. And make sure they’re ISO certified .

Finally, turn your eclipse travels into a longer trip of about a week or two. Look into local observatories or stargazing tours to up the astronomical ante. A few months ahead, research eclipse festivals, events, and viewing parties, if that’s of interest. Meet some fellow travelers who you might be interested in viewing with. Then, one to six minutes of totality will be just the pinnacle of your celestially inspired trip, rather than the entirety of it.

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Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags:

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's vice president of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.

7 Places To See The Next Solar Eclipse In 2033

Only a few places will witness the next solar eclipse in the US (plus areas in Iceland, Canada, the Faroe Islands, and Russia) on March 30, 2033.

• When is the next solar eclipse in the US? It will occur on March 30, 2033, visible only in Alaska and other international destinations, including Iceland and Russia.
• Where is the next solar eclipse? Remote locations like Nome, Utqiaġvik, and Anadyr offer unique visibility due to minimal light pollution.
• Seek partial eclipse experiences in Vancouver, Everett, Húsavík, and Klaksvík for a less remote viewing option.

While the world is filled with places to admire the stars year-round, solar eclipses are arguably the most impressive celestial event to witness. The few minutes the moon precisely aligns to obscure the sun can often be described as memorable, even if it happens regularly.

Yet, being a rare event makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people. A number of locations in the US were among the best places to see the total solar eclipse in April 2024 —but only a few places will witness the next solar eclipse in the US, which will happen on March 30, 2033.

The total eclipse will only happen in Alaska and Russia; however, there are several places to see the next eclipse in 2033 in its various forms, including the United States, Canada, Iceland, and even the Faroe Islands, among others.

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7 nome, alaska, totality: 2 minutes 30 seconds.

Alaska attracts visitors thanks to its many glaciers, explorable by train , as well as its abundant wildlife and outdoor activities. It's also the only place in the US where the 2033 eclipse will be visible, especially in the rural areas. Nome, perched on the Seward Peninsula, is strategically placed on March 30, 2033, as the eclipse will last two and a half minutes .

Before booking a solar eclipse adventure in Alaska, travelers must be aware that March is often cloudy, and they may be disappointed with the weather.

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6 utqiaġvik, alaska, totality: 2 minutes, 37 seconds.

Utqiaġvik, known for being America's northernmost point, along with Point Barrow , might see an increase in visitors in 2033, thanks to the solar eclipse. The town will witness the celestial event a few minutes after it starts in Nome.

The solar eclipse will begin at 9:04 am and last nearly two hours. The weather conditions are similar to Nome, so there is a chance of a cloudy day. According to records, in the past 24 years, the date of March 30 has been cloudy 57% of the time .

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5 anadyr, chukotka, russia, totality: 51 seconds.

For Russians, the next solar eclipse will happen on March 31, 2033. While the partial eclipse can be seen in a few places in the country, the total eclipse will only occur in Chukotka, in the far northeastern corner of Russia, near the Bering Strait.

Anadyr, Chukotka's administrative center, is the best spot to see the solar eclipse in the region. There are advantages to choosing a remote location to witness the event, as Chukotka's sparsely populated landscape results in minimal light pollution, which creates a good location for seeing the eclipse. However, the visibility also depends on the climate conditions.

4 Vancouver, Canada

Duration: 2 hours, 11 minutes.

Seeking places where a partial eclipse will happen is a solution for those unwilling to travel to remote locations in Alaska or Russia. While Vancouver won't experience the whole spectacle of totality in 2033, more than half of the sun will be eclipsed at 10:41 am. The next time Vancouver will witness a total eclipse is in 2044 .

It's important to note that even during a partial eclipse, one must use proper eye protection.

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3 everett, washington, duration: 2 hours, 10 minutes.

Many locations in the US will experience a partial eclipse in 2033. Montana, California, Idaho, North Dakota, and Washington are said to be the best places to see the 2033 eclipse in its partial form, even if the sun isn't 100% covered.

In Everett, Washington, 59.31% of the sun will be obscured , making it one of the best places to see the next eclipse in the US in 2033. The city is strategically located in the Pacific Northwest, so it's a perfect choice for those planning to see the next solar eclipse at a scenic destination, whether near the ocean, mountains, waterways, or forests.

10 Places To See The Northern Lights In The US

2 húsavík, iceland, duration: 1 hour, 40 minutes.

Iceland is home to incredible natural wonders and is a popular destination for travelers planning to see the aurora borealis. Additionally, people visiting the country at the right time will get the chance to see the eclipse, an experience that would make the trip even more memorable.

Húsavík is the best place to see the next eclipse in Iceland, as the partial eclipse will have 47.88% obscurity . It's also possible to see the eclipse from other spots on the island: Akureyri comes as the second-best place, with roughly 46% obscurity.

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1 klaksvík, faroe islands, duration: 42 minutes.

The Faroe Islands is another destination that boasts natural wonders . Klaksvík, like much of the Faroe Islands, will be within the path of the 2033 solar eclipse - even though only 36.5% of the sun will be eclipsed . Tórshavn ranks as the second-best location, with 35.6% of obscurity .

The Faroe Islands' remote location and typically clear skies increase the chances of optimal viewing conditions for the eclipse. However, as with any celestial event, it's essential to plan ahead and be aware the visibility also depends on climate conditions.

If you missed Monday’s solar eclipse, it’s a long wait until the next

A total solar eclipse won’t pass through the contiguous united states again until 2044. but, the next one is in 2026, if you’re willing to travel overseas..

Tens of millions of Americans gawked at the skies in unison Monday, transfixed by the celestial spectacle of the decade. A total solar eclipse traced a path from Mexico to the Canadian Maritimes, crisscrossing states from Texas to Maine, before vanishing over the Atlantic.

2024 total solar eclipse

Experiencing eclipses can be addictive, leaving skywatchers hungry for the next opportunity. And there are many people yearning for another chance because either clouds blocked their view or they were unable to travel into the path.

But, unless you’re willing to travel great distances, it’s going to be awhile before the next total solar eclipse within the contiguous United States. Not until Aug. 23, 2044, to be exact. But if you’re willing to travel to some far-flung locations, the wait could much shorter.

Total eclipses over the next 50 years

This year’s eclipse

CARSON TERBUSH / THE WASHINGTON POST

The next total solar eclipses outside the United States

If you’re willing to exit the United States, your next opportunity to bask in the moon’s shadow will come on Aug. 12, 2026 . A total solar eclipse will begin over remote extreme northern Russia, then pass near the North Pole before tracking southeastward over eastern Greenland, clipping western Iceland and eventually concluding over the Iberian Peninsula.

It will be the first total solar eclipse visible in Iceland since 1954, and the last until June 26, 2196. Then it will sweep through northern Spain, sneaking in between Madrid and Barcelona before ending as a spectacular sunset eclipse for the island of Palma. (I’ll be renting a house in Zaragoza)

Conveniently, the August weather will likely cooperate — Spain’s weather tends to be particularly dry, with a 70 to 80 percent chance of sunshine. Even more important is the Perseid meteor shower, which will be in full swing during the eclipse. It’s possible that a few Perseid “fireballs,” or especially-bright shooting stars, will streak across the sky during totality.

After that, there’s a total solar eclipse on Aug. 2, 2027 that passes over the Strait of Gibraltar, then swings through northern Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt before passing over the western Arabian Peninsula. Totality will be visible from western Saudi Arabia and Yemen. The shadow will cross the Gulf of Aden and swing over northern Tunisia. It will be a particularly long-lasting eclipse, with over 6 minutes 22 seconds of totality on the banks of the Nile River in Egypt near Luxor. (I’m planning to travel to this one, too.)

Then there’s one in Australia in 2028 on July 22 . Flying into Alice Springs would be a good option, then driving north through the Northern Territory. (I’ll be staying in Tennant Creek. By now, you’ve probably figured out that I’m a full-fledged umbraphile, or solar eclipse addict and chaser. Umbraphile literally translates to “lover of the shadow.”)

The next total solar eclipses within the United States

The next total solar eclipse in the United States will occur in northwest Alaska on March 30, 2033 . Eastern Russia will see it too. Nome, on Alaska’s Seward Peninsula, is on the centerline and slated to receive two and a half minutes of totality. (Nome is home to the Iditarod’s finish line.) Utqiagvik, formerly known as Barrow — the nation’s northernmost town — is also extremely close to the centerline, and will get 2 minutes 35 seconds of totality. Unfortunately, Alaskan weather is notoriously capricious during the month of March, and it’s not impossible that the entire viewing area would be clouded over.

In the Lower 48, the next eclipse comes on Aug. 23, 2044 . During that eclipse, totality will commence in the high Arctic, then trace a C-shaped path through Greenland, northwestern Nunavut, the Northwest Territories and along the British Columbia-Alberta border in Canada. Calgary is in the path. Then the shadow sweeps into Montana, North Dakota and far northwest South Dakota at sunset.

If you’re looking for a cross-country eclipse, you hardly have to wait a year after that — one is coming on Aug. 12, 2045 . The shadow sweeps from California to Florida, where totality will last just over six minutes. Totality then passes over the Bahamas, Hispaniola and northeastern South America.

So sure, stateside, you’ll have to wait a couple decades — but consider booking plane tickets and arranging an adventure. Each rendezvous with the moon’s shadow is special, and alignment of sorts between you and the universe. And the best part? Chasing that shadow may take you off the beaten path to parts unknown.

A total solar eclipse passed across the United States on Monday, April 8. See photos and videos from the path of totality and read our reporters’ coverage from scenes across the nation .

Looking ahead: Missed this one? The next eclipse visible in the United States won’t be until 2044 — and then we’ll see another shortly after in 2045. If you did watch this eclipse but without proper eyewear, here’s what to do if your eyes hurt .

The science: This eclipse appeared especially dramatic because the sun was at its most active period in two decades. In the past, solar eclipses have helped scientists learn more about the universe . Here’s everything else to know about the solar eclipse.

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• Clouds part and crowds scream as total solar eclipse delights the U.S. April 8, 2024 Clouds part and crowds scream as total solar eclipse delights the U.S. April 8, 2024