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

Best places to visit in Iceland

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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 hikingwhale watchingSilfra snorkeling.
* WINTER: Northern lights & natural ice caves (some ice caves can now also be visited in the summer!!!)
* 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:

What to see in Iceland - best places and regions

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.

Places to visit in Iceland - Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon on a sunny winter day
Iceland winter wonderland - icebergs on Jokulsarlon beach in winter
Diamond Beach

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

Vik black sand beach in Iceland at sunset in winter
Reynisfjara beach near Vik
Places to visit in Iceland - Reynisfjara Beach
Reynisfjara Beach

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.

Oxararfoss waterfall in Thingvellir NP in Iceland in winter
Oxararfoss waterfall in Thingvellir NP
Places to visit in Iceland - Gullfoss waterfall
Gullfoss waterfall in winter
Iceland trip itinerary suggestions - from one day to two weeks
Strokkur geyser is one of the main attractions on the Golden Circle

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

Ultimate guide to visiting Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Iceland
Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss on Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Svortuloft Lighthouse on Snaefellsnes Peninsula - one of the best areas to visit in Iceland
Svörtuloft Lighthouseon Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Dritvik Djupalonssandur is must see when visiting Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Iceland
Dritvik Djúpalónssandur on 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!).

Blue Lagoon geothermal pool is one of the most popular places to visit in Iceland
Blue Lagoon geothermal pool is one of the most popular places to visit in Iceland
Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik - best places to visit in Iceland
Sky Lagoon – Photo courtesy of Sky Lagoon by Pursuit.

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.

Iceland must see - Skogafoss waterfall
Skogafoss
Seljalandfsfoss waterfall in Iceland
View from behind the Seljalandfsfoss

7. Myvatn

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

Myvatn Lake - one of the best places to visit in Iceland
Myvatn Lake
Places to visit in Iceland - Myvatn area
Hverfjall volcano near Myvatn in Northern Iceland
Namaskard geothermal area is one of the best places to visit in North Iceland
Námaskarð – Hverir geothermal area
Myvatn Nature Baths - geothermal pool in Iceland
Myvatn Nature Baths

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.

Husavik town in North Iceland
Husavik – Photo by canadastock/Shutterstock.com
Whale watching in Husavik Iceland
Whale watching in Husavik – Photo by SasinTipchai/Shutterstock.com

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.

Raufarholshellir lava tunnel near Reykjavik Iceland
Raufarhólshellir.
Best places to see in Iceland - Raufarholshellir lava cave
Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel.

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

Places to visit in Iceland - Westfjords
Rauðisandur beach in the Westfjords
Dynjandi waterfall - one of the most beautiful places in Iceland
Dynjandi waterfall – Westfjords region

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.

Things to see in Iceland - Svartifoss in Skaftafell NP
Svartifoss in Skaftafell NP
Beautiful winter landscape in Skaftafell National Park in Iceland
Beautiful winter landscape of Skaftafell National Park

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

Landmannalaugar in Iceland on a beautiful day in September
Landmannalaugar
Places to visit in Iceland - Haifoss waterfall in Icelandic highlands
Háifoss
Kerlingarfjoll in Iceland
Kerlingarfjöll

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

The Last Great Auk statue and Valahnukamol Cliffs on Reykjanes Peninsula Iceland
The Last Great Auk statue and Valahnukamol Cliffs
Best places to see in Iceland - Krysuvikurberg Cliffs on Reykjanes Peninsula
Krysuvikurberg Cliffs on Reykjanes Peninsula
Seltun Geothermal Area - Krysuvikurhverir on Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland
Seltun Geothermal Area

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.

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-early 2024, there have been several major eruptions in the same area.

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 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 other places, e.g. Blue Lagoon.

Best things to do in Iceland - Fagradalsfjall volcano
Fagradalsfjall Volcano eruption

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

Best towns in Iceland - Siglufjordur
Siglufjordur
Scenery along the scenic road 76 in North Iceland
Driving along the scenic road 76 in North Iceland
Hofsos swimming pool in Iceland
Hofsos swimming pool in Iceland

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

Travel guide to Westman Islands in Iceland
Heimaey Island – Photo by Thomas Males/Shutterstock.com
Puffins on Heimaey Island in Westman Islands Iceland
Puffins on Heimaey Island – Photo by Erik Mandre/Shutterstock.com
Heimaey Island as seen from Mount Eldfell volcano, Westman Islands in Iceland
Heimaey Island as seen from Mount Eldfell volcano – Photo by Tommy Larey/Shutterstock.com

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.

Places to visit in Iceland - Dettifoss
Dettifoss – most powerful waterfall in Europe
Asbyrgi canyon - one of the best places to visit in Iceland
Asbyrgi Canyon

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 km2 (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 see some of the most beautiful natural ice caves in Iceland. You can only visit with a tour and you should book in advance.

Good to know: There are now a few places along the South Coast where you can visit natural ice caves in the summer as well (this is very exceptional!). One of the best spots is a newly-discovered ice cave at Vatnajokull Glacier. Alternatively, check out Katla Ice Cave near Vik (also possible to visit with this day tour from Reykjavik).

READ ALSO: Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Hiking on Solheimajokull glacier in Iceland
Hiking on Solheimajokull glacier
Top 5 bucket list worthy winter experiences in Iceland
Vatnajökull ice caves – Photo by Anna Omelchenko/ iStock

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.

Things to do in Iceland - visit East Fjords
Seydisfjordur in the East Fjords – Photo by Steve_Allen/Depositphotos.com
Iceland places to see - Seydisfjordur
Seydisfjordur church and town – Photo by TRphotos/Shutterstock.com
Reindeer in Eastern Iceland
Reindeer in Eastern Iceland – Photo by Jacek Stamblewski/Shutterstock.com

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.

Fjadrargljufur Canyon is one of the must see places in Iceland
Fjadrargljufur Canyon

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.

Places to see in Iceland - Godafoss
Godafoss

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

Iceland best places - Hvitserkur
Hvitserkur
Hvitsekur beach in Iceland
Hvitserkur Beach in North Iceland

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

Hallgrimskirkja church in Reykjavik
Hallgrimskirkja church is one of Reykjavik’s main landmarks
View over Reykjavik from Hallgrimskirkja - visiting the church tower is one of the cheaper activities in Iceland
View from Hallgrimskirkja church tower
Walking inside an ice tunnel at Perlan Museum in Reykjavik Iceland
A real ice tunnel inside the Perlan Museum

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!

Natural ice cave on Langjokull Glacier in Iceland
Natural ice cave on Langjokull Glacier – Photo courtesy of Sleipnir Tours Iceland.
Red glacier truck on Langjokull Glacier in Iceland
Glacier truck on Langjokull Glacier – Photo courtesy of Sleipnir Tours Iceland.
Walking inside a natural ice cave on Langjokull Glacier in Iceland
Ice cave at Langjokull Glacier – Photo courtesy of Sleipnir Tours Iceland.

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.

Akureyri town in Iceland
Akureyri old town – Photo Dudlajzov/Depositphotos.com
Christmas House near Akureyri in Iceland
Christmas House near Akureyri – you can soak up the Christmas atmosphere here the whole year round.

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:

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:

READ ALSO: Northern Lights in Iceland

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

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Must see places in Iceland - ultimate guide
Places to visit in Iceland - ultimate guide for first time visitors
10 places you must see in Iceland. Don't miss!

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73 Comments

  1. I just wanted to say thank you for all your guides to Iceland. We just spent 12 days traveling around and used many of your tips to guide us. What a special country. Thanks again.

  2. 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

    1. 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.

    2. @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

    1. 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!

  3. 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

    1. 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!

    2. @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.

      1. Hi Alissa, I saw your email and answered already.
        That’s indeed a very unique (and rather empty) itinerary compared to what I know most other companies do.
        It’s a really tough call – going to Jokulsarlon for a day from Reykjavik (and in winter when the days are short) is not ideal. You’ll be in the car/bus for 5-6 hours to get there, plus the same to get back. It is possible and I have heard from quite a few of our readers that they still enjoyed it (I usually recommend this tour for people who decide to do that).
        Katla ice cave is better for that since it’s much closer. But you’ll also spend the whole day on that excursion from Reykjavik (and you’ll be in the car for hours and hours too – also passing a few places which you already saw on your tour).
        There are many other alternatives – such as simply staying in Reykjavik and e.g. visiting the Blue Lagoon and/or Sky Lagoon, exploring the city, etc. You may want to take a look at this Reykjavik guide for some ideas since it looks like you will have quite some time in the city.
        Enjoy your trip!

  4. 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!

    1. 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.

    2. @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?

      1. Hi Kat, I’m not sure what you read and how you interpreted what we said. We ONLY don’t recommend driving in Iceland if you’re traveling in winter and don’t have winter driving experience. Also, if you’re interested in visiting the highlands where there are river crossings (summer only).
        For regular trips in summer, driving on your own is the best way to explore Iceland. And it’s a very safe country.
        The biggest danger in Iceland is Mother Nature, and many tourists underestimate it.
        If you’re visiting in winter and are not comfortable with taking a risk driving in very bad weather, snowstorms, etc. then it’s better to take tours (multi-day or day tours). Keep in mind that it’s also dark for many hours, depending on when exactly you travel.
        If you’re visiting in summer, don’t stay in Reykjavik. Rent a car and explore around the Ring Road.
        Hope this helps.

  5. Is a US license sufficient to drive in Iceland. Do I need an international driving permit? Thanks!

    1. Hi Jairo, from what I know, you can drive in Iceland with a U.S. driver’s license. Bit it doesn’t harm to google the official sources.

  6. My husband and I will be celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary with a 10 day trip to Iceland this September. We will be renting a car and driving the Ring Road. We are interested in seeing all of the major highlight areas and moving on to the next. We are not big hikers and don’t plan to spend a lot of time in each area. We are more interested in seeing the culture, meeting some locals and eating traditional foods. I am having trouble finding an itinerary that fits our needs. Any ideas or recommendations? Thanks!

    1. Hi Brenda, most Iceland itineraries don’t include any hiking at all. Most waterfalls and other sights are just a short walk from the car (if any). You can also take a look at our Ring Road itinerary and just do the planning yourself – it gives you an idea of how you could plan your time if you want to do an entire Ring Road in 10 days.
      On the South Coast, you have an option to do a glacier hike or go hiking in Skaftafell NP, but you can easily find plenty of alternatives if you don’t want to do any of this. You could head straight to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon on that day and then have a more relaxing drive the next day. And also stop at Stokksnes where no hiking is required.
      As for local food, there are really good restaurants all over Iceland, so you’ll find plenty of opportunities to taste Icelandic food. Many hotels have really good restaurants too, or you can ask them for suggestions nearby when you get there.
      Hope this helps. Good luck with the planning!

  7. My bucket list includes a trip to Iceland. Your sharing of this information is greatly appreciated. Anyone can plan a trip using this article.
    Thank you so much for writing this blog.

  8. I have really enjoyed reading your article, so I felt would comment to tell you. It looks like I’ll need to plan a longer trip to Iceland than I first thought:)
    Thank you!!

  9. I’m so glad we found your blog! This is great! We are a family of 5 planning to travel to Iceland at the end of June and we are considering whether we should rent a campervan and camp out or a regular car and stay in air b&b’s. Do you have any suggestions?

    1. Hi Diego, this really depends on your travel style and budget, also group size. For the weather, you never know, but the end of June is pretty much as good as it gets. It will still be cold at night, so prepare for that. Here you can find some information about camping in Iceland.
      We personally always just rent a car and book all our accommodations on booking.com – they have everything – hotels, self-catering apartments, etc. We never use aribnb, because booking usually has much better options, is so much easier to book, amend, or cancel if needed, and you can easily compare it all and find the best deals for your vacation in one place.
      Going with a camper gives you more flexibility, but since wild camping isn’t allowed, you still need to look for campsites every night. And you have to plan your route in advance anyway, just as you would do when booking accommodations. The only advantage of a camper is that you could potentially stay somewhere longer if you like it or drive on faster if you have seen everything you wanted to. But my experience is that you’ll want to stay longer everywhere anyway, so you may not get far that way. :)))
      Good luck with your decision and enjoy Iceland!

  10. We are thinking of staying put in one place and working for a week or so and then traveling around for another week or two. I’m not saying we wouldn’t do anything touristy that week, but being able to work means we can stay for longer. Basically want a pretty place with a good little coffee place and a restaurant. Some place we can just get a good vibe of Iceland without necessarily touristing around during the days. Where do you suggest? Your posts are so helpful!
    Jenny

    1. Hi Jenny, if you don’t want to spend much money on renting a car for that week when you’ll hardly travel, then I think your best option is to stay in Reykjavik. You can easily get to the city from the airport with a transfer (see this guide for more info – Reykjavik airport transfers) and once in Reykjavik, you can just walk around to where you need to be.
      Reykjavik is a rather small city, but it has lots of accommodation options for all budgets (see where to stay in Reykjavik), many cafes, restaurants, local pools (cheap and great), etc. In addition, if you do feel like sightseeing, there are some nice museums (check out Perlan) and also lots of nice places nearby that you can visit with half-day tours from Reykjavik.
      Then, after that week, you can easily rent a car (pick it up in the city and choose airport drop-off so that you don’t have to come back to Reykjavik after your trip) and explore the beautiful nature of Iceland.
      Another relatively easy option would be to stay in Keflavik town near the airport, but I think you’ll quickly get bored there. Also, in Reykjavik, you’ll have more options on where to stay and where to eat, so if I were you, I’d stay there. Be sure to try fish&chips stand near Hallgrimskirkja church if it’s still there – it’s been two years since we were there and my son still talks about it as the best meal on vacation ever. :)))

    2. @Jurga, Awesome, Thanks for the quick and thoughtful response. If we do rent a car is there an area you’d recommend that might be more unusual that Reykjavik (if taht’s the right word), but still have a place to maybe walk in town to a coffee or a restaurant? Like a little fishing village or something like that?

      1. Hi Jenny, if you want to get a bit off the beaten path and still have relatively good facilities and some really nice places nearby, you could maybe try Stykkishólmur town in Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Alternatively, Grundarfjörður near the famous Kirkjufell mountain, but it’s even smaller. You can find some info about both of them in our guide on where to stay in Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Here you can find a complete guide to Snaefellsnes Peninsula and also the best things to do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This is a really nice region and by staying there (and if you have a car), you could explore some wonderful places in combination with your ‘workation’ before heading to the rest of the country.
        Good luck and – after your trip – let us know what you decide and how it was! I’m a bit jealous – workcation in Iceland sounds amazing!

  11. Amazing Post as always, Iceland is always on my bucket list and I think it’s the most beautiful place on this earth.

    People are friendly, diverse landscape, and amazing views. so I’m happy that I reach out to this post.

    I look forward to more in the future.

  12. I just want to say thank you for this post. We’ve just come back from an 8-day trip to Iceland booked at short notice. We’d been before in Winter and I’d looked at a number of resources before stumbling on your blog. There were so many great tips in here and it quickly became our go-to source of information. We knew about a lot of the sights already, but you really helped us choose between places and it also highlighted a bunch of places that we probably would have driven past. We never would have considered Heimaey, but we spent our first night there and it was incredible. The tips on Snaefellsnes were also really useful.

    Keep up the good work

    1. Thank you for taking the time to leave this feedback, Simon. I really appreciate it.
      And I’m very happy to hear that our blog helped you plan a more special trip and visit some places that you wouldn’t find in a ‘standard’ travel itinerary.
      Iceland is full of surprises and there’s so much to see. I’ve now been 6 times, in different seasons and all around the island, and still have a long list of ideas for places to check out next time.
      Hope you come back to our blog when you plan your future trips too. We have many other destinations covered, including some guides to similar places like Faroe Islands, Greenland, Svalbard, etc.
      Happy travels!

  13. We are going to Iceland in late June by dressy cruise ship. Staying 3 extra days. What should I pack as a coat(I’m not a fleece or windbreaker person). Black puffy or Burberry with liner.?Sightsee will be by coach and will rubber sole shoes not hiking boots be ok? Thanks!

    1. Hi Jean, in general, I’d say go with whatever you feel best in and make sure you have a waterproof jacket, any time of the year. If you don’t have one that’s waterproof, then as a minimum pack something that’s somewhat water resistant. Also, take a sweater so that you can layer if necessary.
      It sounds like you are not going to spend that much time outdoors or hiking, so you should be fine in any comfy shoes. You should know, however, that you’ll always have to walk a bit on rough surfaces at the main landmarks like waterfalls, glacier lagoon, etc.
      I guess you already saw it, but just in case – here are our packing suggestions for Iceland in summer. It’s indeed more for outdoorsy people, but the principle remains the same – layers, waterproof, and comfortable are the keywords to remember. And don’t worry too much about it – for a few short excursions by bus you don’t need to pack the same way as somebody who plans a road trip in Iceland. Have a great trip!

      1. Hi Mallory, please check our Iceland winter packing list for tips on what to pack. It’s pretty much what you’ll need in October as it really winters in Iceland already. I’m just not sure if you need winter boots already at the end of October – that would depend a lot on where exactly you’ll be visiting and how the weather will be, so if you think you’d have too warm, then you can take good waterproof hiking boots (I have and recommend these hiking boots) and a couple of pairs of wool socks instead.
        Enjoy your trip!

  14. I am interested in the tractor excursion to Ingolfshofoi to see the puffins. I am not able to find any information on this. Can you please give me more info?

    Thank you

    1. Hi Nancy, here on Trip Advisor you can read the reviews and there is a link to the company that runs these tours in Ingolfshofdi.

  15. My husband and I are seniors. I have some difficulties with walking and balance. That being said I do not want to cancel our long time plans to visit Iceland. Can we still be able to enjoy the many beautiful country sites with my limitations? My husband is very able and we (I) have no problem with him doing things I cannot.
    Thanks for you suggestions.

    1. Hi Susan, I had this question asked several times (see also the article about the best Iceland itinerary for one week and the comment section there). Iceland is actually very easy to visit, even if you can’t walk a lot. Most highlights along the South Coast are really close to the car park. That being said, you will not often find paved paths, but if your are able to walk a few minutes, you can see a lot.
      Here is what I told someone else with similar concerns: Most of the highlights from this itinerary do not require much hiking at all as they are very close to the car park. For example, all the waterfalls are just a few steps away from the car, but if you want to you can hike a bit more. At Skogafoss or Gullfoss you can climb up for different views, but the nicest view is at the bottom anyway. The geyser is just a short flat walk of 2-3 minutes. The Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon – you can see a lot from the car park, or you can walk around a bit, but it’s not difficult either, same with the beach across the road. Vik beach – it’s a stroll on the beach, you can choose how far you walk, the basalt columns are just 2-3 minutes from the car park, if you go all the way to the back it will maybe be another 10min max. The Canyon – you can walk along it, but you can see the canyon without doing the walk just as well. Most other stops along the way are just short walks of 100-200m, sometimes even less. At Thingvellir NP you can walk to the Oxararfoss waterfall, that would be 10-15min from the car and then back. You can also leave your parents at the bottom and let them cross the bridge to the other car park and then go get your car and pick them up there (you’ll figure it out once you get there). Svinafellsjokull which I described here was also 5 min from the car, and so was the Fjallsarlon glacier lagoon. The only place where you really have to hike is Skaftafell NP. Not sure how much hiking you can do in February anyway, but you can always stop at the visitor centre and see what the possibilities are. When we did the glacier hike in Iceland, there were people of over 70 in the group and they were also a bit worried, but they managed just fine.
      Hope this helps! Don’t hesitate to ask if you want to know more about a specific location. Also, check this post with Iceland itinerary suggestions for any trip from 1 day to 2 weeks. And also make sure you pack wisely as wrong clothing can ruin the trip completely – read this guide for the summer packing for Iceland.
      Just do it! You’ll love Iceland.

  16. Spent just 4 days in Iceland (on my way to Ireland) about 7 years ago. It was amazing! I had so much fun and plan on returning this summer with my 91 year old mother. I will be using info gathered here from all of you that shared your experiences!

    1. Have a great trip, Linda. You’ll see that Iceland has changed a lot in recent years. There is so much more infrastructure everywhere you go. Enjoy your trip with your adventurous mom!

  17. Beautiful photos! I just visited Greenland, so Iceland is up on my list next! There’s so many stunning things to see. I especially want to see the waterfalls!

  18. Iceland is high on my bucket list and the list of things I really want to see there is getting longer and longer and your post has added some more. Iceland sounds so amazing.

  19. Wow! I didn’t know Iceland’s landscape was this diverse. I’m hoping to make my way there soon and I definitely want to check these places out!

  20. OMG these pics are killing me…. So so good. Thanks for sharing, I even pinned it for the day I finallyyyyyy make it to Iceland.

  21. I hope I am lucky enough to see Iceland in person someday, it looks spectacular! Just how much time do you need to see ALL these places?

    1. Hi Kari, you’ll likely need at least 2 weeks in summer if you want to do the whole Ring Road and also add part of Westfjords and a day in the highlands to your itinerary. We have some Iceland itinerary suggestions – take a look at the one for 14 days. It covers most of these places.

  22. It seriously all looks so breathtaking!!! I can’t wait to visit Iceland (hopefully when a lot of things are accessible! Lol) definitely saving this list!! Thanks for sharing!!

  23. I’ve visited Iceland twice now and I want to go back again! I have been to many of the places mentioned above, but haven’t been on the Tractor excursion. I love puffins and it would be awesome to see them. I need to plan on going during the summer months next time 🙂

    1. There are several places where you can see puffins in Iceland. But the scenery is out-of-this world at Ingólfshöfði: grey sand landscapes and high sea cliffs full of puffins. So yes, really worth it. And the tractor just makes even more special. 😉

  24. Yes! Exactly what I’ve been looking for. We’re going to Iceland and I’m even more excited about it after reading your post. You’ve got some great information here. Cheers, Jacqui

  25. Iceland just looks absolutely stunning! It is one place i have to go. Your photos are amazing and i never knew there were so many things to see there. Great post!

    1. I think you are not alone here, Laura. Most people have no idea that Iceland has so much to offer. It seems to be changing though – Iceland is extremely popular at the moment.

  26. Omigosh, your pictures are amazing! We are torn between going to Iceland during the winter to see the Northern lights or during the summer because it is obviously warmer. I’ve heard there is a better chance of seeing them in the winter months. What season would you recommend visiting in? I read that you still had winter weather in JUNE so maybe I should just accept the fact that I will be cold regardless of the season. :/

    1. Tough choice, Melissa! I’d say whatever you choose, go to Iceland right in the middle of the season – in late July or early August for the summer trip or November-February for the winter trip. That way at least you know what to expect. If you are not sure about when to go, my post Iceland: summer versus winter might help a bit.

    1. That’s the problem with the bucket lists, isn’t it – they just keep getting longer and longer and you can’t choose where to go first. I know the feeling, Nuria.

  27. This list is amazing! I never knew there were so many beautiful places to see in Iceland. I’m heading over May/June. What weather can I expect? I’m lost packing wise. Also, can I see most of this in 10 days?

    1. Hi Christine, I wouldn’t worry too much about the weather – you can’t influence it and it changes all the time. May-June in Iceland should be a bit like cold spring elsewhere. But we once also had knee-deep snow in Akureyri in that period. I think we just had really bad luck in June… When we traveled in November, it was just beautiful- but that is also not ‘normal’.
      And no, you cannot do all of this in 10 days and definitely not in that period. Concentrate on the Ring Road and all the main places along that road. You cannot go to the highlands in May – beginning of June and the Westfjords are also not ideal and require lots of time. Even just staying along the main road, 10 days will be stretched to cover everything.
      As for packing, check my post on What to Wear in Iceland in Summer.
      Basically, dress in layers (waterproof layer on top) and wear sturdy shoes and you’ll be fine. You’ll love Iceland!

  28. I just came home from Iceland and saw the Northern Lights! They were very active and we saw them immediately after arriving in the area.

    1. Thanks for sharing, JJ! Northern Lights were also the main reason why I went to Iceland in winter and it was so worth it. It’s one of those things you have to see with your own eyes to truly appreciate how amazing it is!

  29. I’m going to Iceland for the first time next month. Thanks for the information! Incidentally, there are lots of waterfalls in Oregon that you can walk behind. Off the top of my head there are two waterfalls in Silver Falls state park and one above punch bowl falls (tower falls?) in the Gorge.

    1. I just googled the falls you mentioned. Looks nice! Have a good trip to Iceland. March is supposedly a very good month for the Northern Lights.