Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Iceland, Europe

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.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Active

Airport

Reykjavik

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

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

13 Best Things to Do in Snæfellsnes Peninsula

1

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Explore Snæfellsjökull Glacier

Hike to the top of a stunning glacier.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Kirkjufell Mountain

Photograph Iceland's most iconic mountain and waterfall.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Arnarstapi and Hellnar Coastal Walk

Enjoy breathtaking coastal views on this scenic trail.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Black Church of Búðakirkja

Marvel at the striking black church against nature.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax in the Landbrotalaug Hot Springs

Soak in a natural hot spring surrounded by nature.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Vatnshellir Cave

Discover the wonders of a lava cave system.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

See the Londrangar Basalt Cliffs

Witness dramatic cliffs formed by ancient lava.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Snæfellsnes Aquarium

Learn about marine life in Iceland's waters.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local seafood at a nearby restaurant

Experience fresh seafood dishes unique to Iceland.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Go whale watching from Ólafsvík

Spot whales in their natural habitat on a tour.

Booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula's lava fields

Walk through unique lava formations and landscapes.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Fishing Village of Stykkishólmur

Experience charming coastal life and local culture.

No booking required
13

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in the Snæfellsnes National Park

Explore diverse landscapes and unique geological features.

No booking required

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)