There are countless "must-do in Iceland" articles online. While most are decent, they often cater to tourists and seem designed primarily to sell products or services. However, not everyone is seeking the same type of experience. At tour2iceland.com, we've decided to compile a series of tailored "must-do lists." Whether you're a first-time visitor to the country, planning to stay just in Reykjavík, searching for adventures, or returning for the umpteenth time, we have something for you. Additionally, we couldn’t resist sharing our personal favourite: a list of what locals love.
Other articles in this series:
First Time Visitors
When you visit a country for the first time, there are certain places you simply must see or experience. These spots are often essential not only because they offer genuinely good experiences, but also because it would be odd to travel all the way to Iceland and not visit the main attractions that everyone recommends. This list is not meant to satirize or diminish the value of the country's most popular tourist destinations – these places are indeed must-visit spots. However, be prepared – they are often crowded and can be decidedly "touristy." It's best to enjoy them for what they are.
1. Both Blue Lagoons
Icelanders genuinely like visiting The Blue Lagoon, but they hardly ever do. Reason is simple; price. Instead, we prefer frequenting our local geothermal swimming pools, which cost about 1/20th of the admission price. These local pools offer a community feel where people can discuss current affairs in the hot tubs. Even so, we recognise that the Blue Lagoon is a unique experience and most Icelanders have visited once or twice in their life.
Although often thought of as a natural wonder, the lagoon is actually man-made, fed by hot water from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power station. Silica from lava combines with hot underground water and as the heated water surfaces and cools, it releases silica molecules, forming the iconic white mud of the Blue Lagoon. The silica suspends in the water in a way that scatters visible light, giving the water its distinctive blue colour.
The water in the Lagoon has proven to be good for the skin and is known for anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects, which can help soothe conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Despite high prices, the Blue Lagoon remains a must-visit for first-timers to Iceland. It offers a surreal, relaxing experience, complete with spa treatments and breathtaking scenery. And there is just something about enjoying a beverage at the swim-up bar!
If you are touring Iceland and plan to drive the circular route around the island, we recommend visiting the Mývatn Nature Baths as an alternative to the Blue Lagoon. Like its more famous counterpart, the Nature Baths offers stunning milky-blue waters but is smaller, typically less crowded, and about half the price. It retains a more rugged and natural ambiance, reminiscent of what the Blue Lagoon was like many years ago before it became heavily commercialized.
2. The Golden Circle
We all visited on a school trip, and then again when our parents were looking for a weekend activity and decided on a car ride in the countryside. Sometimes, a foreign friend eager to see the sights prompts another visit. But beyond these occasions, the Golden Circle is primarily a route we take with visiting guests. This tradition dates back to 1907 when Frederick VIII, King of Denmark and Iceland, visited the country. For his visit, Icelanders constructed a road suitable for wagons to Þingvellir. Since then, guiding guests around the Golden Circle has become a customary practice.
First stop is usually Þingvellir National Park, a site of immense historical, cultural, and geological importance. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional cultural value. The park is celebrated as the original meeting place of the Althing, one of the world’s oldest parliamentary institutions, which was established here in 930 AD. This open-air assembly gathered annually, where Iceland’s most powerful leaders made laws and settled disputes until the late 18th century.
Geologically, Þingvellir is notable for lying in a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart, which is visible in the fissures and rugged terrain that mark the landscape. This makes Þingvellir one of the few places on Earth where the effects of two major tectonic plates shifting can be observed on land.
From Þingvellir, the road heads east to the next major stop, the Geysir Geothermal Area. Geysir, also known as The Great Geysir, is a renowned hot spring located in the Haukadalur valley. It is one of the earliest documented and most famous geysers in the world, giving rise to the term "geyser" used to describe this natural phenomenon globally. Although Geysir itself is now less active (last eruption in 2016), it was known historically for its impressive eruptions that could shoot boiling water up to 70 meters into the air.
The geothermal field around Geysir is dotted with various other hot springs and geysers, including Strokkur, which is very active and erupts every few minutes, shooting water 15 to 20 meters high. This makes it a compelling spectacle for visitors who will probably not witness an eruption from Geysir itself during their visit.
Just a short drive from Geysir is Gullfoss Waterfall. Gullfoss, or the "Golden Falls," is one of Iceland's most iconic and beloved waterfalls. The waterfall consists of two major steps that descend at right angles to each other, creating an impressive, multi-tiered cascade. The upper tier has a drop of 11 meters, while the lower tier plunges 21 meters into a rugged canyon with walls that reach up to 70 meters in height. The total height of the waterfall is 32 meters. The power and grandeur of Gullfoss are enhanced by the volume of water that typically flows over it, which can average as high as 140 cubic meters per second during the summer melt season.
We recommend including a visit to Friðheimar Farm in your Golden Circle itinerary. Friðheimar offers a unique blend of agriculture and tourism. Known primarily for its innovative use of geothermal energy to grow tomatoes year-round, Friðheimar has become a popular destination. The cultivation of tomatoes occurs inside large greenhouses, which are heated by geothermal energy sourced from nearby hot springs. This method allows the farm to produce tomatoes even during Iceland's long, dark winters.
Another must visit on the Golden Circle is The Secret Lagoon. The Lagoon is a charming and lesser-known geothermal pool located in the small village of Flúðir. It holds the title of being one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland, established in 1891. The pool’s natural surroundings and the rustic charm of its facilities transport visitors back to a simpler time, offering a more authentic and tranquil experience compared to Iceland’s more commercialized geothermal pools.
The Secret Lagoon is fed by geothermal hot springs just by the side of the Lagoon that maintain a steady temperature of around 38-40°C (100-104°F) year-round, making it an ideal spot for relaxation regardless of the weather.
3. Travel Along the South Shore to Vík
Another must do when visiting Iceland is a tour of the south shore of Iceland. This part of the country is a showcase of Iceland's spectacular scenery, including black sand beaches, towering waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and expansive glaciers.
The first stop on a south coast tour would be the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi, two of Iceland's most captivating waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss is famous for its unique feature that allows visitors to walk behind the 60-meter high curtain of water, offering a truly exhilarating experience. Just a short walk away lies Gljúfrabúi, or 'Hidden Waterfall' in English. The name stems from its location, as it is tucked away behind a large cliff that partially conceals it from view. To reach it you need to venture into a narrow opening in the rock face. This concealment makes it a less crowded but equally enchanting alternative to its more famous neighbour.
Towering over this part of the country is the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, renowned for its 2010 eruption that caused unprecedented disruption to air travel across Europe due to its massive ash cloud. The volcano, which is covered by an ice cap, stands at 1,651 meters (5,417 feet) and is one of several active volcanoes on the island. The name Eyjafjallajökull means "island mountain glacier" in Icelandic, referring to its position close to the coastline and capped with an extensive glacier.
Next stop on the journey are two fascinating waterfalls, each distinct in their appeal. Skógafoss is one of Iceland's largest and most visited waterfalls, towering at 60 meters high and 25 meters wide. It is famous for the powerful cascade that often creates spectacular rainbows on sunny days. Visitors can enjoy close-up views from the base or climb the adjacent stairs to gain a panoramic perspective from above.
Hvernufoss is a hidden gem located near Skógafoss. This lesser-known waterfall is accessible via a short hike and offers a peaceful escape. Nestled in a secluded setting, Hvernufoss cascades beautifully into a serene pool, surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a tranquil counterpart to the more bustling Skógafoss.
Not far to the east you will find a strange tourist attraction. A wreck of a United States Navy DC plane that crash-landed on Sólheimasandur beach in 1973. Today, the weathered fuselage remains on the black sand beach, creating a haunting yet fascinating scene that has become a popular subject for photographers and a compelling destination for tourists.
Well, the wreck used to present a hauntingly beautiful contrast against the black sand. Today, it's so crowded that it has nearly lost all of its charm. Despite a ban, people still walk on the plane and take photos of themselves on top of it, mimicking Justin Bieber's antics in a music video filmed at the wreck. Not to mention, the round trip from the parking lot is 8 km (5 miles) on a flat surface, often in strong winds on the sands. This attraction features in all 'must-do' articles, but we include it here to warn our readers that this stop may not live up to the expectations set by photographs.
A little further along our journey on the south shore is Reynisfjara Beach. The beach is famous for its striking black sand, towering basalt columns, and the spectacular Reynisdrangar sea stacks that rise from the ocean. The powerful Atlantic waves crashing onto the shore make it a mesmerizing sight, though visitors are advised to keep a safe distance due to the beach's notorious sneaker waves which can unexpectedly sweep people out to sea.
4. Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park
A visit to Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park is truly a must-do when visiting the country. Skaftafell is known for its exceptional natural beauty, characterised by its contrast of black sands, rugged mountains, and gleaming glaciers. Skaftafell is particularly renowned for its accessible hiking trails, which lead to diverse attractions such as the picturesque Svartifoss waterfall. The area also serves as an ideal base for glacier tours up to Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier.
5. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Everytime we bring guests there, they gasp when they see the lagoon. This is enough for us to know that Jökulsárlón is a must do in Iceland. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland's most stunning natural wonders, located in the south-east part of the country, near Vatnajökull National Park.
The lagoon is famous for its floating icebergs, which calve from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, a tongue of the vast Vatnajökull glacier. The icebergs in Jökulsárlón display an array of shapes and sizes and are particularly noted for their spectacular blue and white hues, which contrast dramatically with the dark waters of the lagoon. The lagoon is also a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts, as it attracts seals and a variety of bird species. Visitors can explore the lagoon via boat tours that navigate between the mesmerizing ice formations.
6. Diamond Beach
Just across the road from Jökulsárlón you find the Diamond Beach. Interestingly, the name "Diamond Beach" was coined by a tourism company in the area and does not exist in the Icelandic language. This designation was created to appeal to visitors, highlighting the icebergs that drift from the lagoon out to sea and then wash back onto the black volcanic sand, resembling glittering diamonds scattered across the shore.
The contrast of the crystal-clear ice against the dark sand makes for a surreal and photogenic scene, attracting photographers and nature lovers from around the world. The beach offers an ever-changing landscape as each tide brings in new ice formations, making every visit unique.
7. Dettifoss Waterfall
Yet another waterfall on this list is Dettifoss Waterfall, located in north-east Iceland within Vatnajökull National Park. The waterfall is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe and features a massive curtain of water plunging 44 meters into a rugged canyon, stretching 100 meters across. The sheer volume of water cascading down, coupled with the thunderous roar, creates a mist that can be seen from afar.
The area around the waterfall offers several vantage points for spectacular views, accessible via different hiking trails on both the east and west banks of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river. The raw, untamed beauty of Dettifoss is essential for those who seek to experience the sheer force of nature in its most primal form.
8. Lake Mývatn
If you plan to travel to the north of Iceland, you cannot skip Lake Mývatn. Mývatn is a renowned volcanic lake known for its rich biodiversity and unique geological features. Formed over 2,300 years ago from a large basaltic lava eruption, the lake and its surroundings are dotted with volcanic craters, lava formations, and hot springs. Mývatn is particularly famous for its diverse birdlife; it hosts a large variety of waterfowl, making it a paradise for bird watchers. The combination of natural beauty and geological wonders makes Lake Mývatn a great destination.
There are several must visit places at Lake Mývatn. Dimmuborgir, or "dark castles" in English, is named so due to its towering volcanic rock formations that resemble a fortress. The area features an array of unique shapes and structures formed by the collapse of a lava tube created by a volcanic eruption.
Another must see is Grjótagjá, a small lava cave featuring a thermal spring inside its rift. It was once a popular bathing spot but now bathing is discouraged due to varying temperatures and conservation concerns. The cave was used notably in the popular TV series "Game of Thrones" as the setting for a memorable scene between characters Jon Snow and Ygritte. Grjótagjá remains a popular destination for fans of the show.
An excellent spot for a hike in the area is Hverfjall, also known as Hverfell, a striking tephra cone or tuff ring volcano. This massive, nearly perfectly circular crater spans about 1 kilometre in diameter and rises approximately 140 meters above the surrounding landscape. Formed during a volcanic explosion roughly 2,500 years ago, Hverfjall is one of the largest of its kind in the world. A hiking trail leads up to the rim, offering hikers panoramic views of the surrounding Mývatn area and an impressive perspective into the vast, barren crater itself.
A group of pseudo craters, Skútustaðagígar, is located on the south shore of Lake Mývatn. Pseudo craters are formed when lava flows over wet ground, causing steam explosions that create crater-like formations without producing any new lava. The Skútustaðagígar craters are a result of such geological activity and are now covered with lush vegetation, contrasting with the otherwise stark volcanic landscape. The area is easily accessible by footpaths and is a popular spot for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquil scenery of Lake Mývatn.
And last but not least, you must visit Námafjall or Hverir, a high-temperature geothermal area characterized by mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and a strong sulphuric smell. The colourful minerals create a vibrant landscape that contrasts sharply with the surrounding terrain.
9. Goðafoss Waterfall
Between Akureyri and Mývatn you must visit Goðafoss, one of Iceland's most spectacular waterfalls, known as the "Waterfall of the Gods". The waterfall features a semicircular arch that spans approximately 30 meters (98 feet) across, with a drop of about 12 meters (39 feet) into a scenic, wide gorge.
Legend has it that the name Goðafoss was derived from the year 1000 AD when the law speaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði made Christianity the official religion of Iceland and subsequently threw his statues of the Norse gods (called "goð") into the waterfall as a symbolic gesture. Today, Goðafoss attracts visitors not only for its historical significance but also for its breathtaking beauty and accessible viewing points.
10. Northern Lights
Although not a specific destination, seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is definitely an experience not to be missed. Iceland offers some of the best viewing opportunities in the world. The phenomenon typically occurs from late August to early April, with the peak season being the darkest months of winter.
Ideal conditions include clear, dark skies away from city lights, with increased activity during solar maximums. Many visitors plan their trips around this natural spectacle, hoping to catch a glimpse of the lights' mesmerizing swirls of green, pink, and violet dancing across the night sky.
11. Whale Watching
Whale watching in Iceland is a popular activity, offering the chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The country's unique geographical position on the migratory routes of various whale species makes it an ideal spot for this thrilling experience. Tours are available year-round, but the peak season is from April to October when the marine life in the North Atlantic is most active.
Common sightings include minke and humpback whales, along with dolphins and sometimes even orcas. The most popular locations for whale watching include the coastal towns of Húsavík, known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, and Reykjavík.
12. Hallgrímskirkja Church
The view from the bell tower of Hallgrímskirkja offers one of the best vantage points in Reykjavík. Visitors can take an elevator up to the observation deck, which sits just below the tower's bells. From here, you can enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of the city's colourful rooftops, the surrounding mountains, and the expansive bay.
The stark contrast between the urban landscape and the natural scenery beyond makes this a captivating experience. This panoramic perspective gives visitors a unique opportunity to appreciate the layout and beauty of Iceland's capital from an elevated and central location.
13. Horseback Riding
Horseback riding in Iceland offers a unique way to explore the rugged terrain and stunning landscapes of this volcanic island. Known for the Icelandic horse, a breed brought by Viking settlers in the 9th and 10th centuries, these small but sturdy horses are well-suited for the challenging Icelandic environment.
Riding tours can vary from a few hours to multi-day treks, taking adventurers across lava fields, through verdant valleys, and along scenic coastlines. Whether you're a novice or an experienced rider, horseback riding in Iceland is an unforgettable way to experience the country's natural beauty.
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