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Iceland

Photo by Robert Lukeman on Unsplash

Iceland

Europe

Iceland is a land of stunning contrasts, featuring dramatic landscapes of volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and lava fields. Its vibrant culture blends Norse heritage and modern creativity, evident in its art scenes and rich folklore. Major attractions include the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights, making it a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Visitors are captivated by its unique geothermal wonders and the warm hospitality of the Icelandic people, all while enjoying local delicacies like fermented shark and skyr yogurt.

Quick facts

Target stay

7-10 days

Cost

Very Expensive

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

Language

Icelandic

(80%+ speak English)

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

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Iceland

1. Reykjavik

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, is a blend of rich history and modern culture, known for its colorful buildings, stunning architecture, and thriving arts scene. Explore iconic sites like Hallgrímskirkja and the Harpa Concert Hall, unwind in geothermal pools, and dive into nightlife that never sleeps. The nearby Golden Circle showcases breathtaking natural wonders, and you may catch glimpses of the Northern Lights during winter months, making Reykjavik a captivating destination year-round.

Place type

City

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Other

Known for
Iceland

2. Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is an iconic route in Iceland, celebrated for its stunning natural landmarks and rich geothermal activity. Visitors can marvel at the spectacular geysers in Haukadalur, stand in awe of Gulfloss waterfall's cascading tiers, and explore Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where tectonic plates meet. The landscape features bubbling hot springs, colorful fields, and mesmerizing views, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Place type

Region

Target stay

2-3 days

Vibe

History

Known for
Iceland

3. South Coast

The South Coast of Iceland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, featuring dramatic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, black sand beaches at Vik, and the stunning Reynisfjara sea stacks. The region offers unique experiences such as glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull and exploring the otherworldly terrain of Vatnajökull National Park. This area is appealing for its diverse natural beauty, making it perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, and it's easily accessible from Reykjavik.

Place type

Region

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Active

Known for
Iceland

4. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a microcosm of Iceland's natural beauty, featuring dramatic landscapes, majestic volcanoes, and stunning coastlines. Known for the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier, the area offers hiking through lava fields, the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi, and the surreal rock formations at Londrangar. With opportunities to see wildlife, including seals and birds, and capture breathtaking sunsets at Kirkjufell, this region is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Place type

Region

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Active

Known for
Iceland

5. Westfjords

The Westfjords, a remote and rugged region of Iceland, is known for its dramatic landscapes featuring steep cliffs, deep fjords, and secluded beaches. Visitors can explore breathtaking waterfalls like Dynjandi, hike in the untouched wilderness of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, and experience rich wildlife, including puffins and seals. The area's rich Viking history, inviting hot springs, and minimalist, stunning scenery offer a unique backdrop for adventure and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and explorers.

Place type

Region

Target stay

4-7 days

Vibe

Active

Known for
Iceland

6. North Iceland

North Iceland is a land of dramatic landscapes, featuring geothermal wonders, stunning waterfalls, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Known for its unique attractions such as Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, and Akureyri - Iceland's second city, it offers opportunities for whale watching, hot springs, and adventurous hikes. With fewer tourists compared to the south, it provides an authentic Icelandic experience amidst captivating natural beauty.

Place type

Region

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Active

Known for
Iceland

7. East Fjords

The East Fjords are a breathtaking blend of rugged mountains, crystal-clear waters, and charming fishing villages. Known for their dramatic scenery and tranquility, the region offers unique attractions like Seyðisfjörður with its vibrant art scene, stunning hikes in Hallormsstaðaskógur, and the opportunity to see puffins and seals along the coastline. It's a perfect getaway for those seeking nature, culture, and adventure, far from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy areas of Iceland.

Place type

Region

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for
Iceland

8. Vik

Vik is a picturesque coastal village renowned for its stunning black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs. The iconic Reynisfjara beach, surrounded by basalt columns and towering sea stacks, offers breathtaking views. Nearby, the charming church perched on a hill provides panoramic vistas. Vik is also a gateway to adventure, with easy access to breathtaking hiking trails in the surrounding landscapes and access to the magical South Coast. The captivating scenery and rich Icelandic culture make it a must-visit destination.

Place type

Town

Target stay

2-4 days

Vibe

Active

Known for
Iceland

9. Lake Myvatn

Lake Mývatn, known for its stunning landscapes, geothermal activity, and rich birdlife, is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the surreal pseudocraters at Skútustaðagígar, enjoy the colorful pools of Hverir, and unwind in the natural hot springs at Mývatn Nature Baths. The area is also famous for the unique lava formations at Dimmuborgir and the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights during winter. This diverse region offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit destination in Iceland.

Place type

Body of Water

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for
Iceland

10. Hornstrandir

Hornstrandir, a remote wilderness in Iceland, is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, pristine landscapes, and rich wildlife, including Arctic foxes and diverse bird species. This uninhabited region offers exceptional hiking trails, such as the Hornsund trail, leading to stunning fjords and rugged coastlines. Exploring this untouched paradise allows for immersive experiences with nature and solitude away from bustling tourist spots, making it ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Place type

Region

Target stay

3-7 days

Vibe

Active

Known for
Iceland

11. Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where you can witness the majestic rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Famous for its rich history, it's also a stunning natural wonder with breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and unique geological formations. Visitors can explore dramatic cliffs, dive in the Silfra fissure, and stroll through historical sites where Iceland's parliament was established in 930 AD. It's the perfect blend of culture and nature, making it essential for any Iceland itinerary.

Place type

Nature Reserve

Target stay

2-3 days

Vibe

History

Known for
Iceland

12. Akureyri

Akureyri, the 'Capital of North Iceland', is a charming town known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural surroundings. Home to picturesque landscapes, it boasts the beautiful Akureyri Botanical Garden, iconic church Akureyrarkirkja, and proximity to the stunning Lake Mývatn Geothermal Area. It's appealing for its unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventure, including winter sports and northern lights viewing, making it a perfect base for exploring the majestic fjords and waterfalls of the region.

Place type

Town

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Other

Known for
Iceland

13. Skaftafell National Park

Skaftafell National Park, part of Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland, boasts stunning glaciers, towering mountains, and lush valleys. Famous for its breathtaking waterfalls like Svartifoss, framed by basalt columns, and hiking trails that lead to panoramic vistas, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore ice caves, and witness unique wildlife like reindeer. Its ethereal landscapes and proximity to Vatnajökull glacier make Skaftafell a bucket-list destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Place type

Nature Reserve

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Active

Known for

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

10 (#8 globally)

Cost

Very Expensive

Currency

Iceland Krona

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Icelandic

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional dish. (National dish)

Skyr

V

Icelandic yogurt, thick and creamy.

Kjötsúpa

Hearty lamb soup with vegetables.

Pylsur

Icelandic hot dog, served with various toppings.

Rúgbrauð

VE

Dark rye bread, often served with butter.

Phrases to learn

English

Icelandic

Hello

Halló

(Ha-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nei

(Yow / Nay)

Thank you

Takk

(Tack)

Excuse me

Afsakið

(Af-sah-kith)

How much?

Hversu mikið?

(Kwer-soo mee-kith)