20 Best Things to Do in Iceland | Ultimate Guide

Iceland is full of amazing sights and adventures. It’s perfect for first-timers or those who’ve been many times. Our Iceland travel guide is packed with top spots. You can see the beautiful Aurora Borealis or relax in unique hot springs. There’s something amazing for everyone here.

See the Westfjords or the colorful Landmannalaugar mountains. You can also experience the midnight sun from mid-May to mid-August. The Ring Road lets you drive around the island easily. It shows off Iceland’s best views. Our visit Iceland guide includes 17 top places, plus an extra tip for those who like driving.

There are many guided tours you can take. Visit the huge Vatnajökull glacier or watch puffins in summer. The Golden Circle takes you to Thingvellir Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall. Don’t miss relaxing at the Blue Lagoon or exploring Mývatn’s unique area.

Are you ready for an unforgettable trip? Use our Iceland travel tips for the best experience. Whether you want excitement or relaxation, Iceland is perfect. Begin your adventure now with our complete guide!

Take a Road Trip on the Ring Road

Embark on an unforgettable journey with an Iceland road trip on the famous Ring Road. This road goes around the country for 828 miles. You’ll see stunning waterfalls, impressive glaciers, beautiful black sand beaches, and amazing geothermal areas.

The best time to travel the Ring Road in Iceland is from late spring to early fall. These seasons have clearer roads, making your trip easier. But, driving in winter can be risky because of snow and ice starting in October. If you’re going in winter, make sure you have a vehicle that can handle ice, like a four-wheel drive.

Starting your road trip from Reykjavik, you can go either clockwise or counterclockwise without missing any beauty. Make sure to visit Gluggafoss waterfall for a special view, and explore the south coast’s lovely spots, if the weather’s good.

For those who love a thrill, the F-roads to the Icelandic Highlands are open from mid-June to mid-September. These roads are perfect for an off-road trip but remember, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle. Always check road.is and safetravel.is for current road conditions before you go.

For a complete trip around the Ring Road, plan for 10-14 days in warmer weather. In winter, it’s wise to give yourself more time. Gas stations, like the N1, are around, but not many in remote places. So, plan your fuel stops ahead.

In Iceland, public transport like buses isn’t great, as they don’t run often. So, driving yourself or taking a guided tour is the best way to see everything. Remember to follow driving rules, like speed limits, to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

The Golden Circle Experience

Iceland’s Golden Circle route takes you on an unforgettable journey. You’ll see some of the country’s most famous landmarks. The route includes Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. It’s a top adventure in Iceland, showing off natural wonders, historical sites, and amazing geology.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park, about 29 miles from Reykjavik, is a great start to your Golden Circle tour. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with both geological and historical importance. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where tectonic plates meet above sea level, is here.

Thingvellir is known for the Silfra fissure, known for its clear waters for snorkeling and diving. Established in 1930 and listed by UNESCO in 2004, it’s significant as Iceland’s first parliament’s site in 930 AD.

Geysir Geothermal Area

A 37-mile drive from Thingvellir takes you to the Geysir Geothermal Area. It’s famous for its lively geothermal activity. The main attraction is the Strokkur geyser, erupting every few minutes up to 66 ft high. Sometimes, it shoots water up to 131 ft.

Even though the Great Geysir is less active, Strokkur still provides an impressive show. This spot is a must-see for its natural displays, and it’s free with lots of parking.

Gullfoss Waterfall

End your Golden Circle tour at Gullfoss Waterfall. Its name means “golden waterfall.” Gullfoss falls down two levels, dropping 105 feet in total. In summer, it flows at 138,753 liters per second.

This waterfall has many viewing spots, open all year. It’s one of Iceland’s top natural sites, stunning everyone who sees it.

Explore Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar is a dream spot for any hiker. It boasts a beautiful range of trails through colorful mountains and wide lava fields. Whether you’re up for a quick visit from Reykjavík or a several days’ trek, there is something for every hiker here.

Hiking Trails in Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar hikes show off amazing views that include vibrant hills and deep valleys. Some famous hikes are:

• Laugahraun Lava Field: A 4.3 km (2.7 miles) walk amidst an impressive lava field.
• Mt. Blahnúkúr: A bit longer, this route is 6.1 km (3.8 miles).
• Mt. Brennisteinsalda: At 6.5 km (4 miles), it’s great for those seeking a challenge.
• Blahnúkúr Brennisteinsalda Loop: This 9.7 km (6 miles) trail is perfect for a day-long journey.
• Ljótipollur: The 13.3 km (8.3 miles) path is best for the experienced hiker.
• Stútur: A brief 0.5 km stroll for quick explorations.
• Sudurnamur: An 8.5 km (5.3 miles) trail with diverse landscapes.
• Skalli: The toughest at 15 km (9.3 miles), meant for the hardcore adventurer.

Geothermal Hot Springs

Relaxing in the hot springs after hiking is a highlight of Landmannalaugar. The geothermal springs offer a peaceful spot to ease tired muscles. They provide a scenic setting for relaxation.

You can reach this unique area from June to September. A four-hour bus ride from Reykjavík gets you there. With three different paths available, it’s a must-see for nature fans. Hiking in Landmannalaugar and soaking in the hot springs is the best of Icelandic adventures.

Chase the Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern lights in Iceland is unforgettable. They shine from September to April. These lights, called the Aurora Borealis, create a stunning show in the Icelandic skies.

The Aurora Borealis appears about 40 hours after solar storms hit Earth. When particles collide with the atmosphere, they glow. Mostly green, sometimes with violet or red, they light up the Northern Lights Belt in Iceland.

The lights are brightest from October to March, especially between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. It’s important to be patient. For a better view, go places with dark skies, like the Westfjords or the Golden Circle.

Wear warm clothes to stay comfy while looking for the lights. Photographers should bring a camera that can focus manually, a tripod, and extra batteries. Less light pollution means better visibility, so places like Seltjarnarnes Peninsula are great for watching.

Check the Icelandic forecast for the aurora. It rates from one to nine, with three and up being great for watching. Catching the Aurora Borealis takes luck and patience.

Visit the Stunning Skógafoss Waterfall

Located in Southern Iceland, the Skógafoss Waterfall is famous worldwide. It falls 197 feet down and spans 82 feet across. It’s a sight you must see in Iceland.

There are two spots to view Skógafoss. At the base, you get up close to its power and might see rainbows on sunny days. A steep climb of 527 steps takes you to the top for broad views of the landscape.

The Skógá river area features over 30 waterfalls, making for an epic hike. The Skógafoss Waterfall Hike covers 16 km (10 mi) and takes about 4-6 hours to complete. It’s best from June to September, with 500 m (1,640 ft) of elevation gain.

A legend claims a hidden treasure lies beneath Skógafoss, linked to the saga of Þrasi. This area lets you explore both the stunning nature and interesting folklore.

The beauty of Skógafoss and its legends are compelling reasons to visit. It’s an essential stop in Iceland, offering stunning views and fascinating stories.

Hike the Scenic Waterfall Way

Start an unforgettable adventure by hiking the Waterfall Way. It’s along the beautiful trails of Skógá River. This path in Iceland lets you see over 25 amazing waterfalls. It’s perfect for those who love nature and taking photos.

Starting Point at Skógafoss

Your hike starts at the stunning Skógafoss Waterfall. It’s one of the biggest and most beautiful in Iceland. The beginning of the trail is easy to find and well marked. It is a favorite spot for enjoying breathtaking waterfall views. When you walk up the Skógá River trails, the loud roar of Skógafoss greets you. It prepares you for the magnificent hike ahead.

Waterfalls along the Skógá River

The Skógá River trails have many impressive waterfalls. Each one has its own charm and beauty. The trail extends for 16 km (10 miles) round trip. It goes up about 500 meters. You should plan 4 to 6 hours for this hike. This gives you enough time to enjoy the peaceful views and powerful waterfalls.

The trail is open from June to September. This ensures the paths are clear of snow and safe. You’ll see remarkable waterfalls like Kvernufoss, with water falling into a green canyon. And don’t miss the smaller but lovely Subtle Falls. Each spot is great for taking photos and enjoying the view.

Reaching the bridge over the Skógá River is a top moment of the hike. You can see amazing rocky landscapes and distant glaciers from here. Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull mountains look incredible.

To enjoy this Iceland hike, you need to get ready. Start early, wear good shoes, and bring water, snacks, and a camera. Waterfall Way shows you Iceland’s wild beauty. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

Best Hikes in Iceland: Fimmvörðuháls

The Fimmvörðuháls hike is a top pick among Iceland’s best hikes. It runs 25 km from the stunning Skógafoss waterfall to Básar Hut in Thórsmörk. It’s a perfect journey for those passionate about hiking in Iceland.

This hike lets you see 26 waterfalls, 2 volcanos, and 2 glaciers. You’ll trek up to 1068 meters (3504 feet) high. The views of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers are breath-taking. Most hikers spend 8 to 12 hours on this 25 km (15.5 miles) trail, but some take up to 14 hours.

If you’re thinking about this hike, here’s what you need to know:

• Trail Distance: 25 km/13 miles
• Elevation Gain: Roughly 4265 feet
• Duration: 8-12 hours, but this can vary a lot
• Best Time to Hike: Mid-June to early September
• Transport: A 4×4 bus ride from Thórsmörk to Seljalandsfoss is available (about 1 hour, ~4500 ISK/$40)
• Accommodation: There are two huts (Baldvinsskáli and Fimmvörðuháls Hut) for overnight stays

The path changes as you go, from lush green riverbanks to volcanic grounds, and across glaciers. You can choose to climb Módi mountain or tackle the Cat’s Spine Ridge into Thórsmörk.

Be ready for the weather. It can shift suddenly, especially in July at high elevations.

All in all, the Fimmvörðuháls hike combines Iceland’s stunning nature with a dash of adventure. It’s one of Iceland’s best hikes, unforgettable whether done in one day or leisurely over two.

Photograph Kirkjufell Mountain

Kirkjufell Mountain is Iceland’s most photographed mountain. It stands tall at 463 meters on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Its beautiful setting, with Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, draws photographers and nature lovers.

Near Grundarfjörður, Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall has three spouts. Here, Kirkjufell’s unique shape and the waterfall create a perfect scene. Both amateur and seasoned photographers will find it idyllic.

Photographers from around the world love this mountain. The Northern Lights often appear here, adding magic. The area’s foliage in autumn turns into vibrant oranges, reds, and golds.

In winter, Kirkjufell is covered in snow, offering peaceful moments before sunrise. Although summer is busy, each season has its charm. This makes Kirkjufell a must-see for photography lovers all year.

It’s only a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavik. ‘Game of Thrones’ fans will recognize it from the show. This adds to its fame.

Visiting Iceland means seeing Kirkjufell Mountain. Its unique shape, waterfalls, and auroras offer an unforgettable experience. This famous Iceland mountain is truly special.

Relax at the Blue Lagoon

Going to Iceland? Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon. It’s close to Keflavik International Airport and not far from Reykjavik. National Geographic lists it as one of the world’s top wonders.

The Blue Lagoon is known for its luxurious spa treatments. It’s famous for its warm, mineral-rich waters. These waters come from underground heat and are great for your skin.

You can pick from different types of tickets:

• Comfort Ticket: This gives you lagoon access, a silica mud mask, a towel, and a drink.
• Premium Ticket: You get more, like extra masks and a bathrobe.

There’s a lot to do at the Blue Lagoon. Enjoy steam rooms, saunas, and relaxation areas. Fancy an in-water massage? That’s an option too. The Comfort and Premium tickets add even more to your spa day.

Famous people like Beyonce and Kim Kardashian have visited. It’s a luxury spot for sure. Coming early can help you miss the big crowds.

Make sure to visit the Blue Lagoon on your Iceland trip. It’s where natural beauty meets top-notch spa care. It’ll make your trip unforgettable.

Discover the Wonders of Mývatn

Mývatn is a beautiful area in northern Iceland known for its varied attractions and geothermal marvels. The lake covers around 14 square miles (37 square kilometers) and is about 8 feet (2.5 meters) deep on average. It’s perfect for those who love nature. We’ll look at some top places to visit, like Grjótagjá Cave, the Hverir Geothermal Area, and the relaxing Mývatn Nature Baths.

Grjótagjá Cave

Grjótagjá Cave is a striking lava cave with a warm thermal spring inside. It became famous after being featured in Game of Thrones. Visiting Grjótagjá lets you get right into Mývatn’s unique geothermal scene.

Hverir Geothermal Area

The Hverir Geothermal Area sits on Mount Namafjall. It’s filled with steaming fumaroles and colorful clay. It’s an essential place to visit in Mývatn. You can learn a lot about geothermal energy by seeing it in action here.

Mývatn Nature Baths

The Mývatn Nature Baths are known as the North’s Blue Lagoon. They are less crowded than other spots. The water’s warmth, between 97 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (36 to 40 degrees Celsius), makes it a superb natural spa. Bathing here under the midnight sun or Northern Lights is magical.

Visit Mývatn’s attractions to see Iceland’s stunning natural beauty. From explosive craters to calming, steamy baths, Mývatn has many unforgettable sights and activities.

Witness the Power of Dettifoss and Selfoss

In Northeast Iceland, Dettifoss and Selfoss Waterfalls are Europe’s most dynamic. They show nature’s wild, untamed power. A power Iceland is known for.

Dettifoss amazes visitors with its force. It falls 144 feet down and stretches 330 feet across. Known as Europe’s most powerful waterfall, its roaring waters captivate nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Not far, Selfoss offers a different but equally breathtaking sight. With a 36-foot drop, its wide horseshoe shape mesmerizes viewers. Together, they let travelers see two awe-inspiring natural wonders in one trip.

Iceland’s unique terrain adds to the waterfalls’ dramatic surroundings. This mix of towering waterfalls and striking landscapes captures the spirit of Icelandic wilderness. It gives visitors an experience they’ll never forget.

The beauty and power of Dettifoss and Selfoss will profoundly impact you. They make your Icelandic journey even more memorable.

Experience Whale Watching in Húsavík

Húsavík is known as one of Europe’s top spots for whale watching. It’s a must-see for anyone wanting to see whales in Iceland. Despite its small size, with less than 2,500 people, it offers a great chance to see various whale species up close.

In summer, Húsavík tours have a 96% chance of seeing whales, and 92% in winter. You might see minke, humpback, and even blue whales in Skjálfandi Bay. This spot is just below the Arctic Circle. The tours usually last three hours, giving you enough time to watch these amazing animals.

North Sailing in Húsavík focuses on silent whale watching and being eco-friendly. Their ship, Opal, uses renewable energy for a carbon-neutral journey. They keep a safe distance from the whales to protect them. Plus, until August 20th, you can also see puffins on Puffin Island.

Húsavík offers the best chance to see whales in Iceland. It’s not just about the whales; the area has beautiful hiking trails and spots like Botnsvatn lake. This makes Húsavík perfect for nature fans and wildlife enthusiasts.

“Húsavík is easily among the top 10 places in the world for whale watching, drawing visitors from around the globe for an unparalleled experience.”

Don’t miss this amazing chance to see majestic whales and other marine life in Húsavík. It’s a top spot for whale watching in Iceland.

Glacier Walk on Sólheimajökull

Going on a glacier walk on Sólheimajökull is an adventure everyone should try. Expert guides lead the way through Iceland’s rugged glacier terrain. The trip takes about three hours to complete, perfect for seeing deep crevasses and old ice formations. With the right gear like crampons and ice axes, anyone can safely explore Sólheimajökull.

In 2018, students found out Sólheimajökull had gotten smaller by 110 meters. This change shows how fast Iceland’s glaciers are melting. The glacier has ice that’s 500 years old, showing its long history. Volcanic ash layers from past eruptions can also be seen on the glacier.

Since 2010, the Sólheimajökull glacier tongue has shrunk by about 379 meters. In front of it, a lagoon formed around 2007 is now 70 meters deep. The hike starts at the glacier’s base and takes about an hour to reach the pure white ice. Guides like Hang from China focus on everyone’s safety and share knowledge about the glacier. This journey is a chance to see Iceland’s beautiful and changing nature up close.