A country at the conjecture of raw natural beauty and deep-rooted history, Iceland has been blessed with some of the best wonders of nature. For people who love the great outdoors, the number of things to do in Iceland will make it your favorite travel destination. With the tales of the Viking era still lurking around at most of the Iceland attractions, gear up to some spectacular sights!
Iceland is a treat for the heart. From catching an eyeful of tectonic plates and ice caves to remnants of a volcano and Arctic glaciers, read on to know about the fantastic things to do in this Nordic country.
The mesmerizing Dynjandi Waterfall
People who have visited Dynjandi Waterfall claim that it is perhaps the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland.
The cascading waters make a thunderous sound that booms as it falls on the rocks. The real jewel of Dynjandi Waterfall is the view from the top. The waterfall forms a pool on a wide surface to resemble the trail of a bridal veil.
The majestic ambiance will etch Dynjandi waterfall in your memory. A part of a protected natural reserve, it is one of the top answers for the question ‘What to do in Iceland.’
Address: Dynjandi Walking Trail, Iceland | Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ssLhqUzCcTZZCs3w7 | Phone number: +3544782222
Snæfellsjökull National Park
A paradise for nature-lovers, Snæfellsjökull National Park, is a fine specimen of how diverse Iceland’s landscape can be. The reserve park is named after its renowned 700,000-year-old glacier, and it also features a famous volcano in the country. Seasoned hikers can rise to the challenge to hike up the Snæfellsjökull glacier.
This outdoorsy activity is made more thrilling by its rich flora and fauna, medieval-era lava tubes, and historical remnants. Be prepared for the crisp Icelandic air to recharge you.
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By Axel Kristinsson, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: Klettsbud 7 Hellissandur, Iceland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/33G3bmVz5gGr47GP9 | Phone number: +3544366860
Explore the Ice Caves in Vatnajökull
One of the best things to do in Iceland during the winters is to explore the ice-caves fostered by the effect of Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe. To say that the caves are absolutely stunning would be an understatement. The sun glints on the thin ice, revealing the texture of the ripples of water that have become still to time.
The crystal blue frozen water of the glacier is nothing like anything you would have seen before. The titanic size of the caves alone can make us wonder at the magic that nature creates.
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Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wsGpq1VGnCEZ2Sen8 | Phone number: +3545758400
Go hiking at Hornstrandir
With such bountiful nature, it is no surprise that hiking is one of the fun things to do in Iceland. Hornstrandir Natural Reserve is an excellent location to go outdoors and explore the remote yet spectacular landscapes of Iceland.
From gurgling streams and mountain cliffs to romantic waterfalls and vast fields, Hornstrandir Natural Reserve offers excellent views. While hiking around, don’t be surprised if you spot some Arctic foxes or seals.
Address: Hornstrandastofa, Silfurgata 1, 400 Ísafjörður, Iceland | Timings: Timings may vary. Please visit https://www.ust.is/nattura/natturuverndarsvaedi/fridlyst-svaedi/vestfirdir/hornstrandir/ for the latest timings | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/HagCkGarELsQqjbR6 | Phone number: +3545912000
Blue Lagoon
If heartwarming relaxation is on your mind, a visit to Blue Lagoon can be one of the best things to do in Iceland this weekend. Soak away your stress at the geothermal spa. The hot turquoise blue waters of Blue Lagoon contain minerals and silica, which are said to have healing properties.
We may not be able to confirm the healing aspect, but with a swim-up bar and a face-mask bar, we can guarantee that the heated lake of Blue Lagoon will become a cherished memory.
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By Bryan Ledgard, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland | Timings: Timings may vary. Please visit https://www.bluelagoon.com/day-visit/the-blue-lagoon for the latest timings | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wTzHymVCwVrvHRKK7 | Phone number: +3544208800
Take a tour to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
It is a picture of a serene winter wonderland at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Nothing is ever static at this site of glacial icebergs—the scenery changes with the time of the day and seasons.
On a sunny day, you can bask in the glory of sunlight glittering on the icebergs, which are slowly moving along. Sit down and enjoy the blissful pace of the ice formations of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon surrounding you.
Address: Skaftafell National Park Route 1, Jokulsarlon 78, 1 Iceland | Timings: Timings may vary. Please visit https://icelagoon.is/tours/ for the latest timings | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/MvfcbAJSxmm6qgqp8 | Phone number: +3544782222
Asbyrgi Canyon
The horseshoe-shaped Asbyrgi Canyon may be lesser-known, but it definitely offers a deeper perspective into how diverse the landscape of Iceland is. It close to Dettifoss waterfall and couldn’t be any more different!
In the middle of the canyon, a wildly textured cliff provides a great view of either side. The rolling green fields at the bottom of the canyon are perfect for some easy hikes. You can weave your path through pine trees and fir forests at the base of the canyon and let the scenery overtake your senses.
Address: Cnr Dettifossvegur & Nordausturvegur, Asbyrgi 640, Iceland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/FfQXkupZbKRESJcy9 | Phone number: +3544707100
Viking World museum
Go back in time when Vikings roamed the land with a visit to the Viking World Museum. It has a wonderful display of artifacts from the era of the Vikings as well as a fascinating section on Norse mythology.
You can view the replica of a 9th-century Viking ship or play around in the Viking playground. The museum will expedite your knowledge about Iceland’s culture and history and add some fun to it.
By Neitram, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Víkingabraut 1, 260 Reykjanesbær, Iceland | Timings: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/3xguodtMz5ZaHzh9A | Phone number: +3547771494
Aurora Borealis aka Northern Lights
Northern Lights need no introduction. A truly magnificent sight, they look like divinity glowing in the sky. Catching sight of Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is partly a matter of luck and partly a result of planning.
Driving off into the wilderness to watch the Northern Lights chase the dark sky is perhaps on top of the ‘best things to do in Iceland.’ The best time to catch them is between September to March, when it gets dark enough for the auroras to shine through. It is ideal for planning for a slightly longer trip if you want to check the Northern Light off your bucket list.
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By Cameron Pickett, CC BY 3.0, Link
Djúpalón Beach
The volcano-related activities in Ireland have created unique black-sand beaches, and Djúpalón Beach is one of them. Located within the Snæfellsjökull National Park, it is renowned as much for its dramatic charcoal-colored sand as for the crazy rock formations.
You can see specks of fishermen’s life at Djúpalón Beach. For example, various lifting stones were used to test the strength of any man who aspired to live by means of the sea. If you’re visiting Snæfellsjökull National Park, Djúpalón Beach is a place that shouldn’t be discounted.
Address: Utnesvegur, Hellnar, Iceland | Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WxTfPHUUyPESidsq8
The world-famous Reynisfjara Beach with black sand
It is not every day that you come across a volcanic landscape that meets the sea. The iconic non-tropical Reynisfjara beach is mind-blowing owing to its unique black sand. The stark contrast of white water against black sand is nature’s incredulous work.
Beyond that, there are some pretty impressive rock formations on the beach that you shouldn’t miss.
Address: Route 215, Vik, Iceland | Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oJJm82YJggWdLLJb7
Watch Puffins at Puffin Island
Cute, little, orange-legged puffins can inject delight in almost every heart. These cuddly birds are amply found in Iceland, and a few pockets in the country are home to puffin colonies. One such is the Akurey Island, lovingly known as Puffin Island.
It is just half a mile (less than a kilometer) away from the coast of Reykjavik. This island is devoid of any human residences; it is puffins all the way! Well, these seabirds can also be sighted along with seagulls, ducks, cormorants, and other local fauna. Take a boat from the mainland at Reykjavik and go over to Puffin Island to see some nesting locations.
We can confirm that you may feel a strong urge to pick up a puffin and hold it close.
By Aconcagua, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Kollafjordur fjord, Reykjavik, Iceland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/NdFYC6gdv71vXZr16
Hverir
Hverir is a big reason why Iceland is also called the Land of Fire and Ice. It is a gigantic geothermal field and offers a practical experience of simmering mud pools and fumaroles. The relentless power with which the steam hisses up from the red soil is an otherworldly view. The constant emission of Sulphur and other minerals has drenched the soil with hues of red.
Hverir also goes by the name of Namafjall and reveals the geothermal side of Iceland to the visitors.
Address: Ne-2 660, Lake Myvatn, Iceland| Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/XcPhJxEAjBGHabEr5
Go on a Golden Circle Tour
The Gold Circle Tour is the holy grail of sightseeing tours in Iceland. It is widely popular as the route covers some of the most wondrous attractions in the country’s Southern Region. Make an entire day trip out of it and visit the three highlight places – Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur geyser, and Gullfoss waterfall. This 155-mile (250-kilometer) road trip is all about the history and Icelandic nature with a spattering of culture.
If you’re wondering what to do in Iceland in one day, the Golden Circle tour can be a good bet.
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By http://www.cgpgrey.com, CC BY 2.0, Link
Stokksnes Peninsula
The paradoxical charm of Iceland is being enveloped in tranquility by larger-than-life relics of nature. Stokksnes Peninsula, with a history dating back to the 9th century, is an example of par excellence.
It is home to the steep and beautiful mountain of Vestra-Horn, which rises from the edge of a lagoon. Avid photographers will appreciate the allure of Stokksnes Peninsula’s rugged magnificence.
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By Russo Francesco F R P I X C O M, CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: Stokksnesvegur 9720, Iceland| Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WV9BhYZREC5RGDHa8
Skaftafell
Prime hiking trails along rocks formed by lava make Skaftafell a perfect destination if you want to get some blood pumping. Skaftafell was established as a national park in 1967 but was merged with the newly recognized Vatnajökull National Park in 2008.
Trails leading to the glacier Skaftafellsjökull and waterfall Svartifoss make for relatively easy hikes. If you want to challenge yourself, Kristínartindar mountain peaks can be a choice. However, Skaftafell is most known for a hike to Svartifoss. With a waterfall pouring down into a pool from a wall of distinguished lava columns, it is easy to see why Svartifoss is so wildly popular.
To truly enjoy all that the park has to offer, one can choose to camp for a few days in Skaftafell.
Address: Vatnajökull National Park, Urridaholtsstraeti 6-8, 210 Gardabaer, Iceland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/q1JqnBq5xU66ehLK8 | Phone number: +354 5758400
Snæfellsnes
Snæfellsnes boasts of splendid geography through all seasons. It is a perfect blend of all things that are characteristic of Iceland. The craggy rock formation overlooking the ocean, volcanic terrains, and staggering waterfalls compliment the cute little villages and churches.
The Snæfellsnes peninsula is a superbly picturesque place to spend several hours. It is quintessentially Icelandic and not as touristy.
Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/NbK4fRCT342NzfEj9
Thingvellir National Park
Along the famous Golden Circle tour, Thingvellir National Park is an easy drive away from Reykjavik. It is famously known for the Mid-Atlantic Ridges, the great continental divide. You can see the opening of the tectonic plates between North America and Europe. Spectacular, right?
That’s not the only thing. Other exciting Iceland attractions include Silfra Diving spot, Thingvellir Church, ruins of ancient stone shelters, lava fields, and Althing (Icelandic parliament’s location from the 10th to 18th century. Thingvellir National Park is where major chapters of Iceland’s history were witnessed – shift to representative parliament, adoption of Christianity, declaration of independence from Denmark.
Address: Thingvellir, 801 Selfoss, Iceland | Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4TNRrjSjYTxantMx8 | Phone number: +3544822660
Take steam baths at Laugarvatn Fontana
Pampering begins with a spa or a steam bath at Laugarvatn Fontana. Here, it is the time to rejuvenate yourself in a geothermal pool with a natural hot spring bubbling right under.
It is located on the Golden Circle route, making it quite convenient if you’re in only for a day trip. Laugarvatn Fontana’s location ensures a terrific view of the mountains as you dip under the natural geothermal outdoor pool, heated up by lava under the earth.
Not for the faint-hearted, there is a freezing cold lake surrounding the Fontana, and you can also take a dip in it!
Address: Hverabraut, 840 Laugarvatn, Iceland | Timings: Timings may vary. Please visit https://www.fontana.is/is/opnunartimi / for the latest timings | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/3xguodtMz5ZaHzh9A | Phone number: +3544861400
Skógafoss
Skógafoss is not only one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland but also powerful in every way. Stand really close to it, and its water drizzles will drench you! If you’re lucky, the falling water catches the glints of the sunshine to form a gorgeous rainbow that chases across the waterfall.
There is a Viking lore related to a treasure chest of gold attached to, but that is not the only interesting thing about Skógafoss. You can climb the stairs that lead to the top of the waterfall. The view of the gushing water forming a lake from an aerial perspective is astonishing.
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Address: Gönguleið um Fimmvörðuháls, Iceland | Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4CrsgZxhtqhYkn8s9
Westfjords
Westfjords is a large peninsula jutting out of northwestern Iceland. Because of its distance from other popular Iceland attractions, it is a somewhat lesser-traveled region. This only adds to the thrill of exploring lands where not a lot of visitors have been.
The coastline is Westfjords, amazingly long and diverse. This hidden gem is abundant in stunning waterfalls, sprawling landscapes, quaint villages, unending beaches, and hot pools. Some top places in Westfjords are the red-sand Rauðasandur beach, Dynjandi waterfall, Hornstrandir, Drangajökull glacier Látrabjarg for viewing puffins.
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By Evgeniy Metyolkin, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/p86enARa6d87wrXH6
Go Whale Watching
Whale watching is one of the top things to do in Iceland during the summers. And Húsavík is just the right place to go for it. Giant whales leaping around in the sea is a breathtaking watch. While there is some element of luck involved, go for this excursion with some patience too.
Húsavík is not the only place for whale watching. You can book numerous tours starting from Reykjavik itself. They are also accessible during the winters. There are more than 20 kinds of whales swimming around in the sea surrounding the country. You can mostly expect to catch a glimpse of a minke whale or humpback whale.
Nature has truly been generous when it comes to Iceland!
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Tröllaskagi Peninsula
While many tourists don’t have Tröllaskagi Peninsula on their radar, Icelanders will confirm that it is simply gorgeous. You can start with a stop at a small fishing town of Siglufjörður. Nestled amidst a towering mountain range and by the sea, it is the northernmost town of mainland Iceland. With plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreational activities and a visit to the Herring Era Museum, Siglufjörður will charge you up.
The rest of Tröllaskagi Peninsula is an enchanting blend of soaring peaks, meandering rivers, and open fields. Make a stop at the town of Hofsós to experience the incredible infinity pool that overlooks icy fjords and the ocean. The cliffs at Hofsós have interesting basalt rocks because of cooled-down lava.
For history buffs, Tröllaskagi Peninsula has the oldest turf church of Ireland called Grafarkirkja. It was built around the 17th century and gives a peek into the architecture from that era. Tröllaskagi Peninsula should be on your list if paths lesser trodden excite you.
Address: Aðalgata 27, Siglufjörður, Iceland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZdWH9dmVpS3emcQf6
Church of Iceland
Iceland’s tryst with Christianity goes back to the late 10th century when the Althing (then national parliament) opted for the country’s residents to become Christians.
National Church of Iceland, located in Reykjavik, is a state-supported Evangelical Lutheran Church. It welcomes people of all religious affiliations and even if you have none. A visit to the church will affirm the peace-loving and open-minded lifestyle that the people of Iceland subscribe to.
Address: The National Church, Katrínartún 4, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/GZiYsP13sGysQ6sQ9 | Phone number: +3545284000
Hnjótur Museum
Hnjótur Museum is a quirky destination in the Westfjords. It may seem quite unassuming, but the story behind it will tell you otherwise. Not a grand museum by any measure, it is memorabilia of aviation vehicles. Few highlights are an old Douglas C-117D from the US Navy and a stranded Russian plane from 1933.
The main exhibit is in dedication to the rescue of the British trawler Dhoon which was made possible by the efforts of 12 local farmers despite the terrible weather then. Hnjótur Museum is a warm-your-heart attraction that emphasizes the local nuances.
Address: Örlygshöfn, 451 Patreksfjörður, Iceland | Timings: Tuesday to Sunday 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/hnjotur?share | Phone number: +3544561511
Go on Horse Riding
The sweet nature of the Icelandic horses makes it fun to ride them. Not only are they a pretty breed, but they also have a soft gait which makes horseback riding easier. It must be a heady rush to ride a horse in the lush open fields of Iceland’s countryside.
You can easily book a horse-riding tour and fulfill the experience for yourself. Such a tour can be available close to Reykjavik or further away in the north of the country. Be it summer or winter, galloping around on horses with nothing but gorgeous creations of nature in view is a keepsake memory.
By Marek Slusarczyk, CC BY 3.0, Link
The Game of Thrones Kirkjufell
The beauty of Iceland’s landscape has been immortalized by the popular show ‘Game of Thrones’. We mention this regarding the easily recognizable mountain named Kirkjufell. Shaped like an arrowhead, it is in the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
It is no wonder that Kirkjufell is the most clicked mountain in all of Iceland. Its unique shape and location draw visitors round the year. Whether you glimpse the snow-capped Kirkjufell or a verdant one, the visit is well worth your time.
Address: Road 54, Grundarfjorour 350 Iceland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Lxxs7waway2XEmpd8
It is mind boggling how one nation fits in so much that nature has to offer. Iceland is a rare country where a volcano exists on the same mainland as a frigid glacier, and gushing waterfalls share the same nationality as an arid region. Find paradise on earth in Iceland!