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The Ultimate 10-Day Iceland Itinerary

Day 1 - Reykjavik

• Day 2 - Caving & Hveragerdi

Day 3 - Waterfalls, Reynisfjara, & Klaustur

Day 4 - skaftafell & jokulsarlon.

• Day 5 - The East Fjords & Egilsstadir
• Day 6 - Asbyrgi

Day 7 - Myvatn

Day 8 - husavik & akureyri, day 9 - husafell.

• Day 10 - Reykjanes & Homecoming

Discover 10 adventure-filled summer days of authentic travel—our ultimate 10-day Iceland itinerary is sure to cater to your highest expectations. In addition to guiding you to incredible landscapes and secret natural gems, this well-thought-out selection of Iceland's must-see attractions covers the Ring Road and more. Read on to explore the best 10-day Iceland itinerary.

Many travelers wonder how much time they need in Iceland. We believe 10 days is optimal to take in a range of incredible attractions and activities. 

• Book this  10-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road with a Taste of the Central Highlands
• Join this fantastic 10-day guided circle trip around Iceland in winter

Popular package tours

Scenic 4-day northern lights tour of vatnajokull ice cave, jokulsarlon & the south coast, amazing 5-day northern lights winter vacation package in iceland with ice caving & the blue lagoon, 4-day reykjavik city break with optional activities.

Other Considerations for This 10 day Iceland Trip Itinerary

• The following is a 10 day Iceland summer itinerary. Take this trip between May and September to allow sufficient daylight hours to see all our recommended attractions.
• You will spend one night in each location, allowing you to complete the entire Ring Road and uncover hidden gems.
• Because the summer months in Iceland are busier, we advise you to pre-book your accommodation . 
• Although this is a summer itinerary, you will still need to bring warm clothing to Iceland.
• See also The Right Clothes and Gear for Tours in Iceland

Mode of Transport for Your 10 day Iceland Travel Itinerary

Iceland has no railway system, and although the Icelandic bus system is relatively accessible and straightforward, trips are both expensive and infrequent.

When traversing the country, therefore, we recommend that you rent a car , as it allows you to control your own pace and explore hidden paths and less-used roads where you are sure to discover many secrets.

With the speed limit set at a modest 56 miles per hour (90 kilometers per hour), Iceland's quiet highways provide ideal road trip conditions where you have ample opportunities to marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

And remember that if you do not have the necessary means of driving by yourself, you always have the option of going on a  Guided Ring Road of Iceland Tour .

With your sights set on central  Reykjavik , where you have booked your accommodation, pick up your car at the Keflavik International Airport . First, drive through the lunar vistas that make up the Reykjanes Peninsula . Here you can immerse yourself in Iceland's spectacular landscapes, spontaneously discovered by simply looking out your car window.

Over 70 percent of the people who visit Iceland make their way to the Blue Lagoon  geothermal spa, making it Iceland's single most popular attraction, and with good reason. Named in 2012 as one of National Geographic's "25 Wonders of the World," this outdoor spa is in the middle of a rugged black lava field in  Grindavik . The Blue Lagoon, located 13.4 miles (21.6 kilometers) from Keflavík Airport, has warm milky-blue water and supposed extraordinary healing powers.

Should you arrive in Iceland early in the morning, a visit to the Blue Lagoon would be an ideal choice for the day. The journey ahead will provide you with ample opportunities to bathe in many of Iceland's magnificent natural and artificial pools. You could also visit the Blue Lagoon on your last day or skip it altogether.

When you have checked into your accommodation, take advantage of the closeness to Reykjavik's thriving city center. You can discover a multitude of shops, museums, restaurants, and cafes and explore the old harbor district of  Grandi . It recently transformed into a vibrant arts venue filled with workshops, restaurants, and galleries. 

In the evening, dine at one of  the best restaurants in Reykjavik  before joining the radically liberal  nightlife in Reykjavik , which is famed for its avant-garde atmosphere and flamboyant crowds.

Just make sure that you save some energy for the journey ahead.

Top Blue Lagoon Tours

• See also Top 10 things to do in Reykjavik

Day 2 - Caving & Hveragerdi  

Start the second day of your 10-day Iceland itinerary by driving 12.4 miles (20 kilometers) east of Reykjavik into the  Blafjoll Country Park . Spend the late morning and early afternoon exploring what is widely considered the most magnificent natural phenomenon of its kind, the empty magma chamber of the Thrihnukagigur  volcano.

Photo from  6-Hour Volcano Tour Inside the Magma Chamber of Thrihnukagigur with Transfer from Reykjavik

After a 1.8-mile (3-kilometer) hike through Blafjoll's volcanic wonderland, an open cable car will take you through a narrow, funnel-shaped opening and slowly lower you 393 feet (120 meters) into the enormous Thrihnukagigur magma chamber.

A  Thrihnukagigur volcano tour  is an excursion into the cold heart of a dormant volcano, where orange and scarlet walls tell stories of ancient cataclysms and terrible destruction.

Hot water perpetually pours from the Reykjadalur's surrounding hills, forming a warm stream at the bottom of the valley, where you can bathe and unwind while enjoying the mesmerizing scenery.

If you are thirsty for a more daring approach, a guided horseback tour  takes you further into the mountains above Hveragerdi. Here you will discover mighty lava fields and geothermal hot spots of bubbling mud pools, solfataras, and fumaroles. At the same time, you will enjoy riding the pony-sized Icelandic horse .

The third day of your 10-day Iceland road trip takes you further east, across the southern lowlands where Seljalandsfoss , one of Iceland's highest waterfalls, awaits you by the highway.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall drops over 197 feet (60 meters) over a misty cavern where you can walk behind the cascade. Experience its mystical force from the point of view rarely granted by mother nature.

Your next stop of the day is Seljavellir, where an old path takes you to  Seljavallalaug outdoor pool , one of Iceland's oldest swimming pools and the south's most iconic construction.

Since 1923, the pool has collected the lukewarm water that steadily seeps from the hills. You are free to bathe in this stunning example of organic architecture to this day.

Six miles (10 kilometers) east of Seljavellir, the mighty  Skogafoss  waterfall, one of Iceland's most significant, plummets 197 feet (60 meters) from the towering cliffs that make up the border between the coastal lowlands and the Icelandic Highlands .

After accosting this mighty aqueous guardian of the south, you would do well to visit the Skogar Folk Museum , whose six buildings display more than 15,000 regional folk craft artifacts.

Spend the late afternoon exploring  Reynisfjara  beach, one of the world's most beautiful black sand beaches.

Perpetually hammered by the ruthless North Atlantic surf, Reynisfjara has titanic rock formations and hexagonal basalt columns that make up an enormous cliff face on which strange dark caves gape towards the open sea. 

Please be advised that strong undercurrents, heavy surf, and cold water temperatures make  entering the sea extremely dangerous , and one should not do so under any circumstances. 

• Book a  Reynisfjara South Coast Tour  now

Photo by Regina Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir

After exploring Reynisfjara, you head east towards  Kirkjubaejarklaustur  town, where you will lay your head for the night. 

The bright summer evening provides the perfect conditions for exploring the Systrafoss waterfall and the magnificent Systrastapi (Sister's Rock). This strange rock hill towers from the southern lowlands, 0.8 miles (1.3 kilometers) from the village. 

Top South Coast Tours

On the fourth day of this epic 10-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary, enjoy the journey into  Skaftafell  nature reserve. This incredible landscape covers over 2,982 square miles (4,800 square kilometers) of utterly surreal wildlands. Black desert sands meet a birchwood oasis under a spur of the Vatnajokull ice cap.

Skaftafell is famed for its warm summer climate, and locals offer excellent services, including guided glacier hiking tours and ice cave tours , transportation, food, and accommodation. From Skaftafell's visitor center and campsite, many hiking trails will take you into dreamlike realms of mesmerizing beauty.

On Fossaleid (Trail of Falls ), Hundafoss waterfall will be the first and highest of a set of cascades on the path to the majestic  Svartifoss  (Black Falls) waterfall. It tumbles from a tall row of black basalt columns in a forest clearing, like a reality gap. 

Thirty-four miles (54.7 kilometers) east of the campsite, you will find one of Iceland's most treasured masterpieces of nature, Jokulsarlon  Glacier Lagoon.

Jokulsarlon is a glacier lagoon in which you can join countless seals traveling amongst the towering mountains of ice that have broken off from the Breidamerkurjokull  glacier in the north.

For decades,  Jokulsarlon tours  have attracted large crowds worldwide, and to this day, they remain one of Iceland's most popular tourist activities.

But when the titanic icebergs of Jokulsarlon have melted to the size of a mere cubic meter, the Jokulsa a Breidamerkursandi glacial river ferries them south into the sea. Here, the waves polish them into table-sized blocks of ice that eventually wash onto the obsidian sands called  Diamond Beach . 

Diamond Beach is where 1,000-year-old glacier fragments slowly fade into unity with the significant drop of water called the Atlantic Ocean.

Spend the rest of your day here before heading back to Skaftafell for a well-deserved good night's sleep under a glacier bathed in the scarlet rays of the midnight sun . 

Top Jokulsarlon Tours

Day 5 - the east fjords & egilsstadir  .

On day five of your 10-day trip to Iceland, you set your sights on the small township of Egilsstadir , the largest settlement in the Eastern Region , where folklore and science have waged a fierce battle for centuries.

Lagarfljot , Iceland's third-largest river, splits the unofficial Eastern capital. It is allegedly home to the Icelandic equivalent of the Loch Ness Monster , the serpentine creature known as Lagarfljotsormurinn .

Documented sightings of the great worm of Lagarfljot first occurred in 1345 and continued well into the 21st century. Still, it wasn't until 2012 that a video recording finally provided the irrefutable evidence that ultimately proved the creature's existence.

And within the blink of an eye, legend had become fact.

Before you have the possibility of chancing upon a close encounter with the Lagarfljot Worm, enjoy the three-hour morning drive towards Egilsstadir. Your reward is crowd-free vistas of windswept mountains, picturesque villages, and an array of waterfalls so stunning that they are even said to rival their southern counterparts.

The dramatic east coast has long fjords with steep sides and jagged glacier-forged peaks. The fjords contrast with fertile farmlands, blooming meadows, and green groves.

Fifteen miles (25 kilometers) south of Egilsstadir, the  Hallormsstadaskogur  National Forest covers over 740 hectares (7.4 square kilometers) of varied landscapes, making it the largest forest in Iceland.

Forests are a rare phenomenon in Iceland, and before you reach Egilsstadir, a visit to the forest would be well worth your while. Hallormsstadarskogur boasts over 24.8 miles (40 kilometers) of footpaths and marked trails, two fully-equipped campsites, and boat and horse rentals.

Top Eastfjords Tours

Day 6 - asbyrgi  .

Day six of your 10-day Iceland road trip takes you 118 miles (190 kilometers) northwest of Egilsstadir and into the mystical horseshoe-shaped  Asbyrgi  canyon (The Shelter of Gods). According to numerous local sources, their steep sides are towering cliffs that are the principal dwellings of the hidden Icelandic people (Huldufolk).

Photo by Regína Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir

One of those paths is a stone-stepped trail that leads to the crystal clear and still Botnstjorn pond. This small body of water is all that remains of a nameless waterfall, which in primordial times fell roaring from the cliffs above.

Today, Botnstjorn has a viewing platform that allows for a peaceful moment where you can pay a silent tribute to the aquatic spirit that once was the master of this realm.

Legend claims that Asbyrgi formed when Odin's eight-footed horse, Sleipnir, graced the earth with a touch of one of its hooves. Most geologists, however, maintain that catastrophic ice-age flooding of the Jokulsa a Fjollum glacial river brought Asbyrgi into existence.

Spend the day in Asbyrgi's soft but rocky embrace and secure a night of sweet dreams by remembering to pay your respects to the hidden people in the cliffs above you. 

• Book a  Ring Road Self-Drive Tour With Asbyrgi  here 

From Asbyrgi, head northeast inland and onward to Lake Myvatn , 55.7 miles (89.7 kilometers) away. Here you will traverse ethereal landscapes formed in a cataclysmic volcanic explosion more than 2,000 years ago.

Myvatn is one of Iceland's largest lakes, famed for its multiple bird communities, vibrant plant life, and the many natural wonders surrounding the lake itself. These include the bubbling sulfuric mud pools of the  Namaskard  pass, the enormous tuff ring volcano crater of  Hverfjall , and the massive  Krafla  volcanic caldera. Krafla is fiercely active and last erupted in 1984.

You will find one of Iceland's most precious natural marvels, the  Dimmuborgir  (Dark Cities) lava fields east of the lake.

Legend has it that Dimmuborgir came into existence when Lucifer was banished and cast from the heavens. Upon landing east of Myvatn, the fallen angel quickly amassed an infernal hoard of lost souls and established the Catacombs of Hell, much to the dislike of the local light elves.

There was chaos and confusion. Demons fought light beings under a burning sky. Still, eventually, the elves drove Satan's army far into the nether regions before turning the unusually shaped lava fields into a cross-dimensional elven capital of their own.

Stories like this may come across as nonsensical at first. Still, when you consider the area's incredible geothermal potency, Myvatn's mythological association with fire, brimstone, and burning underworlds becomes quite understandable.

Around the lake, you are more than likely to happen upon numerous caves filled with hot water, many of which rank amongst the world's most magnificent natural baths.

But since small earthquakes regularly alter the area's geothermal conditions—sometimes raising water temperatures to extreme and even life-threatening levels—you should always  connect with locals  before bathing in the caves. 

From Myvatn, a picturesque morning drive takes you into the northern Skjalfandi Bay  and the quiet little town of  Husavik , which has made a name for itself as the whale watching capital of the world.

Because of the multiple species of whale that flock to their feeding grounds in the waters of Skjalfandi bay, Husavik is the very best whale watching harbor in Iceland, with local operators boasting an unmatched 99 percent success rate.

On a  Husavik traditional whale watching tour , you are more than likely to encounter the white-beaked dolphin, the harbor porpoise, and even the titanic blue whale. However, the gentle minke whale is by far the most commonly sighted animal, its curious nature often allowing visitors to watch it from a very short distance. 

In the early afternoon, visit the local  Whale Museum  and the Exploration Museum , whose ancient artifacts and fishing vessels witness Iceland's incredible maritime history.

Top Whale Watching & Puffin Tours

From Husavik, a 56-mile (90-kilometer) drive takes you west to Akureyri , the largest town in Iceland outside of the capital area, with a population of 20,000. 

Although Akureyri lies only 62 miles (100 kilometers) below the arctic circle , the town greets you with mild, pleasant weather and an easy-going atmosphere. 

Akureyri has started to rival Reykjavik as Iceland's go-to cultural hot spot. Before you rest for the night, spend the late afternoon and evening exploring the town's many attractions, including an abundance of cafes, restaurants, and museums. 

• See also:  13 Best Things to Do in Akureyri

On the second to last day of your 10-day Iceland road trip, start your day early and drive to the old pastoral hamlet of Husafell , 196 miles (316 kilometers) from Akureyri.

Set in dense birchwood forests between two glaciers, this ever-popular outdoor activity center makes for an ideal place to spend a day of easy hiking and sightseeing.

Excellent footpaths and hiking trails lead into the beautiful Husafellsskogur forest, towards the Ok and  Eiriksjokull glaciers, and onto the vast Hallmundarhraun lava field. The lava field is home to numerous caves, including Surtshellir  and the enormous Vidgelmir .

Vidgelmir cave is 0.9 miles (1.5 kilometers) long, with gigantic domes reaching astonishing heights of over 49 feet (15 meters). These measurements make it the most extensive cave of its kind in Iceland and one of the largest lava caves in the world. 

Although Vidgelmir's sheer size is spectacular to behold, the cave's true uniqueness lies not in its enormity but its beautiful vibrant colors. They come to life in numerous locations, where a lights system ensures that visitors thoroughly enjoy their underground adventure. 

• Book a  Vidgelmir Cave Explorer Tour  here

Just over 9 miles (15 kilometers) southwest of Vidgelmir, you will find another natural marvel, the  Hraunfossar  waterfalls flowing into the Hvita River.

Do not miss Hraunfossar waterfalls, ranked among Iceland's most magnificent waterfalls. They are only a short drive from Husafell's service center. Husafell has a small grocery store, a filling station, a swimming pool, and an information booth where you can book cottages, reserve space on the campground, or book a room for the night in the local  Hotel.

Day 10 - Reykjanes & Homecoming  

On the very last day of your 10-day Iceland road trip itinerary, you will travel 119 miles (192 kilometers) southwest of Husafell onto the ultra-volcanic  Reykjanes Peninsula . Marvel at the massive ridge of black and red lava fields where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates drift apart.

Around every turn, you will stumble upon superb examples of Iceland's volcanic nature, such as the steaming  Kleifarvatn lake and the vibrant  Gunnuhver  and Seltun geothermal fields with bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles.

In Sandvik , a footbridge overarches a small canyon on the peninsula's southern point. Here, you can walk between the two separating continents.

It is easy to lose track of time and space in Reykjanes' volcanic landscape, so make sure to save a moment for the Blue Lagoon, should you not have gone there on your first day.

The steamy world of black rock and milky-blue water makes for the perfect finish to your visit to Iceland. In the misty lake, you are bound to soak away all of your tension and prepare your body for the journey back home.

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25 Best Things to Do in Iceland, Glacier Lagoons and Volcano Treks Included

Experts recommend how to explore the Nordic country.

There are few places in the world quite as magical as the country of Iceland. From natural wonders like Gullfoss Waterfall and the Northern Lights to the buzzing culinary scene and fascinating history and culture of this Nordic island, Iceland has much to offer travelers.

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If you’re planning a trip to the land of fire and ice, it can be challenging to narrow down what sights and activities to put on your itinerary. I experienced this myself when I planned a hot springs tour around the country a couple of years ago; this time, I turned to the pros for advice.  Travel + Leisure spoke with three local experts to gather their thoughts on the best of Iceland. Davíð Logi Gunnarsson, head guide of Nordic Luxury , shared his favorite museums, food and drink, and outdoor activities to check out; Dofri Hermannsson, expert hiking guide and owner of Reykjavik Erupts , shared top hikes to tackle and small businesses to frequent; and Aggi Sverrisson, executive chef at Moss Restaurant at the Retreat, offered restaurant and bar recommendations for every type of occasion. Without further ado, here are 25 of the best things to do in Iceland. 

The National Gallery of Iceland

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The National Gallery of Iceland is located in the heart of downtown Reykjavik and has more than 14,000 pieces in its expansive collection. The gallery features 19th-, 20th-, and 21st-century works celebrating and preserving Icelandic culture, and there is a large variety of international art as well. “From traditional to contemporary works, [The National Gallery of Iceland] offers a captivating glimpse into the nation’s creative heritage,” says Sverrisson.

The Akureyri Art Museum

The Akureyri Art Museum is located in the center of Iceland’s second-largest city, and its collection focuses solely on visual arts. Showcasing work from both local and international artists, the museum serves as a cultural hub for the artistic community in North Iceland. Explore the museum at your own pace or visit on a Thursday, when guided tours are available.

Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum

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Fermented shark is one of Iceland’s most unique culinary traditions, and you can take a deep dive into the connection between Iceland and Greenland sharks at the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum . Located in West Iceland on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this museum highlights the destination's long history of shark fishing, the fermentation process, and the importance of these predators to Icelandic culture. You can even try fermented shark yourself here.

National Museum of Iceland

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This museum showcases paintings, statues, and other artifacts from Iceland’s storied past. It’s located within walking distance from Reykjavik's center and is the perfect way to spend a rainy day or lazy afternoon in the city.

“A local favorite, this restaurant is tucked away on the western edge of Reykjavik and is surrounded by the sea in a nature reserve,” says Gunnarsson. “It’s cozy, and the menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients while drawing inspiration from the simplicity of Italian cuisine.” While the restaurant is great to visit any time of year, winter can bring the backdrop of a lifetime, when you might see the Northern Lights right from your table.

Moss Restaurant

Courtesy of Moss Restaurant

Moss is a fine-dining restaurant located inside The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon in Grindavík. The restaurant's innovative tasting menu features the best of Icelandic meat and produce, and it was awarded its first Michelin star earlier this year. With breathtaking views of the mystical Blue Lagoon, a meal at Moss makes for an unparalleled culinary experience.

Monkeys is the perfect place to kick off a lively night out in Reykjavik. Located near the popular Laugavegur street, the eclectic Nikkei restaurant boasts bright and colorful decor that complements the exotic dishes and spectacular cocktails it serves. “The Peruvian Japanese-inspired menu showcases a large selection of small dishes and tasting menus bursting with flavors that celebrate the palate,” says Gunnarsson.

Pakkhús Restaurant

For some of the best seafood in the country, head to Pakkhus Restaurant in Höfn. Set in a converted warehouse along the harbor, the unpresuming restaurant features a top-class menu focused on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Sverrisson notes that the restaurant’s specialties include unique langoustine creations, so make sure to add one or two fresh lobster dishes to your order.

Kaffibarinn

One of the oldest bars in the city, Kaffibarinn is a staple of Reykjavik’s nightlife scene. During the day Kaffibarinn operates as a coffee shop, but at night tourists and locals alike flock here for the high-energy DJ sets, the hip atmosphere, and of course to dance all night long. “This is the place to see and be seen,” Gunnarsson says.

Accoridng to Sverrisson, Port 9 is "A pioneer in Icelandic wine culture.” Tucked away on a quiet residential street in Reykjavik, the intimate wine bar has an unbeatable selection of international wines, plus small bites to nibble on between pours. The inviting ambiance of the wine bar makes it the perfect spot for a date night or small group tasting.

Even though it’s located on the busy Laugavegur street, this cozy bar feels more sophisticated than your typical brewery. “[Kaldi] is popular with locals and offers a great selection of Icelandic microbrews,” says Gunnarsson. “This place is bustling every evening, so be early.”

Grotta Lighthouse

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Escape the city lights with a leisurely hike from downtown Reykjavik to the Grotta Lighthouse on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. “On a summer evening, it is great to hike from Harpa Conference Hall towards the lighthouse,” says Hermannsson. Stunning sunsets are a treat in the summer, and in the winter months the clear skies are perfect for watching the Northern Lights.

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If you have access to a car, Hermannsson recommends driving to the base of Mount Esja , which is located about 50 minutes outside of Reykjavik in the southwest region of Iceland. Arrive ready for a heart-pumping hike at this year-round spot. There are many different hikes to choose from, and signage along the way to keep you on the path that best suits your experience level. Once you reach the nearly 3,000-foot summit, you can take in the jaw-dropping views of the city, the bay, and beyond.

Litli-Hrútur Volcano

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Hiking a volcano is one of the most thrilling adventures you can embark on in Iceland, and Litli-Hrutur is the newest eruption. This particular hike is no easy trek, and since conditions are ever-changing, make sure you’re adequately prepared if you want to make the journey. “For a full experience, hire a local expert guide who knows everything about the volcanic activity of the Reykjavik area," says Hermannsson. "It really makes the Earth come alive under your feet."

Landmannalaugar

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“ This otherworldly landscape captivates even the most experienced hiker,” Gunnarsson says of Landmannalaugar. “Located in the highlands of Iceland, the colorful mountains, hot springs, and steam vents in this unique place provide an unforgettable landscape and a silence that only a few have experienced in nature.” The best time to visit is mid-June to mid-September, when the long summer days allow you to take in as much of the boundless beauty of the reserve as you can.

Þjórsárdalur

Scenic views take on a new meaning on this hike alongside Þjórsá, Iceland’s longest river. The breathtaking trek leads to Háifoss, one of the tallest and most dramatic waterfalls in Iceland. Along the way you’ll encounter much more natural beauty, including the Búrfell Forest and Fossalda mountain.

Kaffitar is a small coffee chain with four cafes located around Reykjavík. Founded in 1990 by Adalheidur Hedinsdottir, the company is now one of the leading coffee names in Iceland, in part thanks to its emphasis on nurturing relationships with the farmers who supply its coffee beans. “[Hedinsdottir's] specialty coffee and the original cafe she opened were a hit, and now she runs several cafes, still getting her beans directly from farmers in South America," says Hermannsson.

Skool Beans

Joshua Schumacher

Skool Beans is Iceland’s smallest micro-roaster. On the southern coast of Iceland inside a classic yellow school bus, you will find this unique café in the small town of Vík. “The rustic ambiance, as well as the exemplary coffee and chocolates, make for the best casual conversations with fellow travelers,” notes Gunnarsson.

Reykjavík Röst

What better way to start your morning than a cup of coffee with a great view? Located near the water on the Old Harbor, Sverrisson dubs Reykjavik Röst “one of the best coffee shops” in the city. “It offers all your standard coffee drinks, as well as maple sage lattes, keto coffee, and magic mushroom coffee. It also has a great selection of Icelandic cakes and traditional pastries, as well as amazing views.”

Blue Lagoon

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

This geothermal spa has gained international fame as a modern wonder of the world. Located in a black lava field in Grindavik, visitors can soak in the milky-blue waters known for their healing properties due to the silica and sulfur found in the water. Just 15 minutes from the Keflavik Airport, it’s the perfect activity right after landing or just before leaving Iceland

Hallgrímskirkja

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

One of Reykjavík's most historic landmarks, this gorgeous church rests on top of a hill in the center of Reykjavik and stands out due to its height and distinctly shaped spire and side wings. Built to resemble basalt columns, the 244-foot church is the tallest in Iceland, and in addition to operating as a church it serves as an observation deck. “My favorite way to visit is to go up the bell tower and take in the panoramic views of the city from the observation windows,” says Gunnarsson.

Set on the coastline of Reykjavik, Sólfar (or Sun Voyager) is a striking sculpture meant to serve as an ode to the sun. Created by Jon Gunnar Arnason, the stainless steel sculpture was inspired by world expeditions and symbolizes light, hope, and the promises of undiscovered territory. Check out the artwork at sunset for a stunning view that will leave you just as inspired as Arnason was when he created this masterpiece.

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“Awe-inspiring in its perfect conical shape, this ancient volcano sits like an island of greenery in a vast field of black sands and glacial streams,” says Gunnarsson. Standing more than 2,500 feet above the highlands of Southern Iceland, Mælifell is a monstrous volcano and an ode to Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes. It's a must-see for adventure seekers, but note that due to its remote location, Mælifell is only accessible in the summer months. Those who manage to make it to this natural wonder will marvel at its truly majestic setting.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

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Jökulsárlón is Iceland’s most famous glacier lagoon, with massive icebergs looming over Jökulsárlón lake. “This is one of Iceland’s most popular landmarks, and it's the deepest lake in the country,” notes Sverrisson. “It’s located on the south coast and offers awe-inspiring views of floating icebergs, black-sand beaches, seals, and so much more.”

Grjotagja Cave

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This small lava cave is a hidden gem on Iceland’s famed Ring Road. Located near Lake Myvatn, the inconspicuous hideout is known for the bubbling geothermal hot springs found inside the cavern walls. The jagged rocks and turquoise waters make Grjotagja a hauntingly beautiful landmark to visit.

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23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Iceland

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 14, 2023

Author Anietra Hamper has traveled throughout Iceland tackling outdoor adventures, from four-wheel driving over lava fields and fishing to taking in the waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic drives.

Iceland, the island of fire and ice, has become one of the world's top travel destinations , not only for thrill-seeking adventurers but also for nature lovers looking for something different.

Here, you'll discover active volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, glaciers, ice fields, and fjords, for this sparsely populated country, resting at the edge of the Arctic Circle, sits atop one of the world's most volcanically active areas.

One way to explore Iceland is on your own with a rental car, from several days to a week, including a trip along the Ring Road that runs in a complete circle around the country.

Another way to plot your adventure in Iceland is with tours that can take you to the best options to see the northern lights; ATV trekking; and on day trips from Reykjavik to see some of Iceland's most stunning natural beauty, like the Blue Lagoon and waterfalls.

Find out more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Iceland.

1. Explore Reykjavik by Foot

2. ride to the top of hallgrímskirkja, 3. soak in the blue lagoon, grindavík, 4. gullfoss waterfall, 5. spot whales out of reykjavik, 6. watch spectacular geysers, 7. take in the northern lights, aurora borealis, 8. hike in landmannalaugar nature reserve, 9. maelifell volcano & myrdalsjökull glacier park, 10. attend a concert at harpa, 11. explore the skaftafell ice cave, vatnajökull national park, 12. visit an active volcano at askja caldera, 13. feel the spray of dettifoss waterfall, 14. kirkjufell mountain, grundarfjördur, 15. hiking at mount esja, 16. walk the town of akureyri, 17. bird-watching at lake myvatn & nature reserve, 18. the pearl observatory (perlan), 19. rev up adventure with an atv trek, 20. float along a glacial lagoon, 21. reynisfjara black sand beach, 22. tour the raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, 23. visit iceland's quirky museums, best time to visit iceland.

The best way to start your trip to Iceland is by sightseeing in the capital city of Reykjavik . This is a walkable city with many museums, restaurants, attractions, public art, and entertainment.

Take a stroll to see some of the iconic locations in the city, like Hallgrimskirkja church and the Sun Voyager sculpture, or relax in one of Reykjavik's 17 thermal pools. You will enjoy walking up and down the city streets and perhaps stop into one of the many artsy and boutique shops to buy a wool sweater or lava pottery.

You can also book a Reykjavik Food Walk Tour and nibble your way through Reykjavik's food scene enjoying local cheeses, or try an authentic Icelandic hot dog.

Some of the best resorts in Iceland are in Reykjavik, so you can base yourself in the city and take day trips. An extremely popular way to visit nearby areas is on a South Coast Full Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik.

A Reykjavik modernist icon, this visually striking church is one of the city's top attractions, and when you see it, you'll understand why. Hallgrimskirkja is the tallest and most recognizable building in the country .

The Black Falls (a basalt rock formation), which is one of Iceland's natural wonders, inspired the architectural design. A climb to the top of the 73-meter-high tower is particularly rewarding. Here, you'll be treated to spectacular views across the city and surrounding landscape. At the front of the church is a statue of Icelander Leifur Eiriksson ("Leif the Lucky"), the first European to discover America around 1,000 CE. It seems he beat Christopher Columbus by around 500 years or so. For a small fee, you can take the elevator to the top and get the best panoramic view of Reykjavik.

Address: Hallgrímstorg 1 101, Reykjavik

Just 40 minutes' drive from Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon , the most iconic of geothermal spas, is a must-see tourist attraction. Here, you'll find natural bathing in pale blue water in the shadow of a power station.

An entire Blue Lagoon industry has grown around this attraction since it first became a hit with locals in 1976. The water from the underground hot springs reaches 37-39 degrees Celsius and is said to be highly beneficial for both health and skin. If the die-hard Icelanders are anything to go by, don't knock the theory. Aside from bathing in a unique setting, there's a shop selling skincare products, a range of spa treatments, and places to eat and drink. Don't visit Iceland without coming here.

Rub on a mask of natural mud in minerals from one of the tubs located on the edges of the lagoon. For the ultimate relaxing visit, you can stay at one of the two hotels at the Blue Lagoon and add on a day at the Retreat Spa.

It is easy to book a bus trip to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik, but if you want to add an extra element of Iceland adventure, you can book a day trip on an ATV that will have you drive there over lava rock paths and take you back by coach to your hotel.

Address: Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík

Magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall lies around 90 minutes west of Reykjavik and is one of the best waterfalls in Iceland . The river Hvítá plummets into a canyon, which forms three-step terraces, creating a powerful torrent. Gullfoss encompasses two cascades; the upper one drops 11 meters, while the lower one cascades about 21 meters.

Torrents of water flow over Gullfoss at an average rate of 109 cubic meters per second, although heavy floods have recorded an astonishing rate of nearly twenty times that. A word of warning: there are no rails or barriers, just a spine-tingling spectacle to enjoy amid surroundings as nature intended.

No matter what time of year you plan to travel to Iceland, whale watching happens year-round, although summer is the most popular time to see these gentle giants. During the warmer months, trips run day and night, including whale watching in the midnight sun.

Tour operators say there's an 80-95 percent chance of seeing these magnificent creatures, depending on the time of year. Best of all, surfacing often happens right near the boats, so you may well enjoy a ringside seat for one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles.

Other ocean-going tours are also available, such as bird-watching and island visits. Tours are convenient since there are several types available, and they depart from Reykjavik's Old Harbor. Stop for a dinner of fresh cod after you return in one of the many small, rustic restaurants located in the harbor area.

Address: Ægisgardur 5, Reykjavik's Old Harbor

An easy 50-minute drive from Reykjavik , Strokkur Geysir (after which all geysers are named) is the most popular fountain geyser in the country and is famed throughout the world. This highly active hot spring area lies in the southwest of Iceland beside the Hvítá River and is a favorite stop along what's known as the Golden Circle.

Boiling mud pits and around 100 other smaller exploding geysers are waiting to be explored here. Every few minutes, Strokkur shoots water 30 meters into the air. Visit the Geysir Center for exhibits and informative presentations year-round.

A memorable experience is digging up Geysir or "hot spring" bread, rye bread that has been baking underground for 24 hours. Visitors can also help a chef boil eggs in a hot spring to accompany the bread. One popular day tour to the area is the Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik, which has several stops and can ensure you get the iconic geyser photo from your trip.

The northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, are among the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland. This is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights .

Auroras are linked to solar wind, a flow of ions radiating from the sun. These particles become ensnared in the earth's magnetic field and collide with atmospheric molecules, causing bursts of energy, which appear as large circles around the poles. This spectacular natural light show is best admired in remote places and is particularly impressive at times of increased solar activity. Since the appearance of the northern lights is unpredictable, most hotels and lodging operators can provide you with nightly predictions before you go to bed and add you to an overnight call list.

They will call your room if the lights appear, as they may only be visible for a short window of time. For one of the most optimal opportunities to experience the northern lights, you can take a tour like the Northern Lights Night Tour from Reykjavik, which takes you to the remote countryside for the best chance to see this natural wonder.

In the south of Iceland, 180 kilometers from Reykjavik, is Landmannalaugar National Park, one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations. The main features of this mystical landscape are the multi-hued rhyolite mountains, Hekla volcano , and extensive lava fields.

Hiking and horse riding are popular things to do here, and hikes range from a couple of hours to several days. You can visit from June to late September, after which the road is closed. A mountain lodge ( Landmannalaugar Hut ) with basic facilities accommodates 75 people. Expect raw nature, rugged scenery, and utterly spectacular views.

South of Landmannalaugar lies Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park, which for safety reasons can only be visited during summer. Large amounts of rain soak the area, particularly in winter, when roads can be severely damaged. Maelifell volcano is the undisputed jewel-in-the-crown of this wild, rugged glacial landscape.

The perfect cone shape gives Maelifell the look of a classic volcano, however during the warm season, a lavish green covering of moss gives it a surreal, otherworldly appearance. The park is full of volcanoes, hot springs , and other remarkable sites. To the west of Myrdalsjökull is a smaller glacier, Eyjafjallajökull (Island Mountain Glacier). A popular and thrilling way to explore is by snowmobile.

As you plan your time in Iceland, set aside an evening for a concert at the magnificent Harpa , Reykjavik's premier concert hall. If time or performance schedules do not fit your schedule, plan to at least stop by to admire the award-winning architecture of the building. Nighttime is one of the best times to see the array of colorful lights emanating from this honeycomb-shaped structure.

Harpa is a treasured landmark in Iceland, attracting international performances ranging from violinists and classical music to performing arts.

This venue makes for a great night out in the heart of the city. Enjoy dinner at one of Harpa's two restaurants and go for a stroll outside along the waterfront after the performance. The gift shop is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs, many made by local artists.

Address: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavik

In the south of the country, Vatnajökull National Park is a land of glaciers and magnificent ice caves that attracts adventurers from across the globe. This vast national park (one of three in Iceland) is divided into four sections and consists of Vatnajökull glacier and its surroundings.

You'll find a number of visitor centers; those in Skaftafell Ice Cave and Höfn are open year-round, while Skriðuklaustur and Jökulsárgljúfur are closed in winter. The best time to visit Skaftafell Ice Cave is during winter after heavy rain has washed the top layer of the glacier away.

If seen at the right time, the cave is bathed in spectacular blue light. Group visits to all areas can be arranged off-season. If you are in good shape, you might consider doing a glacial trek with an experienced guide. The treks get you on the ice for an unforgettable experience to see glacial cracks and caves and even drink fresh water from small pools on the surface.

In the northern region of Vatnajökull National Park, the Askja caldera and the geothermal pool in the Dyngjufjöll Mountains are not for the faint-hearted. However, if you'd like to say you've taken a dip in a live volcano, then this is for you.

Askja is an impressive 50 square kilometers in size. The surrounding mountain range was formed during volcanic activity, and Askja was partly created by an eruption of burning ash that collapsed the roof of the central volcano's magma chamber.

The water in Viti , the geothermal pool and volcanic crater, is generally around 30 degrees Celsius. A word of warning, the banks can be very slippery, particularly in wet weather.

Dettifoss, in the north of Vatnajökull National Park, truly is a breathtaking example of the raw power of nature. Plunging 45 meters and with a width of 100 meters, it's said to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

Generally, it's best to approach on the east side of the River Jökulsa, where the road is better. Along easy paths from Dettifoss, Selfoss is a smaller waterfall around one kilometer upstream with a drop of around 10 meters. Below Dettifoss, the Hafragilsfoss waterfall tumbles 27 meters into a steep canyon. It's more advisable to drive than walk to Hafragilsfoss.

Around 2.5 hours' drive northwest of Reykjavik is the small town of Grundarfjördur, a charming fishing village centrally located on the north coast of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. The town lies in a picturesque fjord, surrounded by mountains, with Mt. Kirkjufell looming as a striking landmark.

Dotted about the surroundings, you'll discover small streams and waterfalls. During winter, Kirkjufell is a great place to watch the awe-inspiring northern lights . Eyrbyggja Heritage Centre holds exhibitions on Grundarfjördur's seafaring history and is the information center for the whole peninsula.

A 30-minute easterly drive from Reykjavik brings you to Mount Esja in Kjalarnes. The mountain is 914 meters high and very popular with hikers. Even for the inexperienced climber, it's a relatively easy hike. There are terrific views of Reykjavik and the surrounding landscape and ocean.

You can take several routes to the summit depending on your energy levels and how much time you have. You can get to the main starting point at Mount Esja by a 10-minute bus ride on public transportation that leaves out of the Hlemmur main station towards Artun. Check bus schedules and times before your visit.

In the north of the country, Akureyri lies amid mountains on the longest fjord in Iceland about 40 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. With a population of around 18,000, Akureyri's landscape and culture make it one of the best cities in Iceland . Summer days occasionally reach 25 degrees Celsius, and although winters bring heavy snowfall and cold weather, calm and still weather generally prevails.

Despite the town's isolation, cultural life and entertainment flourish here, and a wide range of shops offer brand-name products. The skiing area is the best in the country. Points of interest include the Akureyri Museum and the impressive Aviation Museum at Akureyri Airport .

A little over an hour's easterly drive from Akureyri is Myvatn in northern Iceland. It is a lake district famous for its wealth of birdlife, rich fauna, and large shallow body of water. It's estimated that the area was formed around 2,500 years ago by a gigantic lava eruption.

Today, the surroundings are volcanically active, with an eruption occurring as recently as the mid-1980s. Bubbling clay pits, sulphuric fumes, and lava formations all form part of this unique landscape, which is still in flux.

One of the most interesting scenic features of Myvatn is the rootless vents formed by the volcanic eruption. While the landforms resemble craters, they did not have a lava flow, but the volcanic activity still resulted in their creation, adding to a stunning and unique appearance around the lake.

The name Myvatn literally means "midge-water," a reference to the prolific midges here, especially during summer, so be sure to pack some insect repellent. The area is also a bird-watcher's paradise.

Originally the site of the city's gigantic thermal water tanks, " Perlan ," as it's known locally, is one of Reykjavik's landmark buildings. It occupies an enviable location on Öskjuhlíð hill, where there are in excess of 176,000 trees.

The hill is particularly pleasant, with bicycle trails and footpaths zigzagging up and down. The observatory affords stunning views over the city. Also on-site is a revolving restaurant , as well as gourmet and souvenir shops.

In addition, Perlan regularly hosts concerts and exhibitions in the Winter Garden. The observation deck is a real treat. The new planetarium is spectacular with a virtual trip of Iceland featuring the country's natural elements.

Address: Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík

A popular thing to do and one of the most adventurous ways to experience Iceland is on the back of an ATV, trekking across rugged lava fields, riding up dormant volcanos, and passing pastures with roaming wild Icelandic ponies.

These are views of Iceland that you will never forget and one of the best ways to get up close to the country's most scenic natural environment. Tours like the two-Hour ATV Quad Tour from Reykjavik lets you experience ATV off-road adventure without a huge time commitment. Many tours depart from Reykjavik but they are available in most regions of the country.

While Iceland is full of natural wonders, one of the most spectacular is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You will ride in a boat through large chunks of ice that have separated from the glacier.

The floating ice in the lagoon ranges from the size of small pebbles to the size of cars, but since you are floating in the lagoon with them, they are close enough to touch. Witness the blue hue of glacial cave formations and birds flying above in this natural environment.

The South Coast and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Day Tour from Reykjavik is a popular tour for visitors who want to set up a home base for their visit to Reykjavik and do a day trip to this top attraction. The tour also includes visits to two beautiful waterfalls and spectacular views of mountains and glacial rivers along the south coast.

While Iceland has some stunning beaches, the Reynisfjara black-sand beach on the country's southern coast has an other-worldly appearance. This unique beach is known for its black sand and rocky sea stacks that protrude from the oftentimes ferocious waves coming in from the Atlantic Ocean.

The eerie yet stunning landscape of natural beauty at Reynisfjara beach is one of the reasons it was selected as a filming location for films like Star Wars. The lighting at this beach adds to its contrasting allure, which is why it is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys photography.

As with many natural locations in Iceland, Reynisfjara black-sand beach has dark folklore associated with it. Iceland legend says that the rocky basalt sea stacks were once trolls pulling seafaring ships to shore in the night, and they turned to stone during sunrise.

You are not likely to see any trolls during your visit, but you might see some of the thousands of seabirds, like puffins, guillemots, and fulmars, that nest in the columns.

The 2.5-hour drive to the beach is easy from Reykjavik, or you can take a guided trip along the southern coast that includes this as a stop if you want to spend more time at some of the other features on that side of the island.

Read More: Best Black Sand Beaches in the World

The land of fire and ice has so many intriguing natural elements that visiting is an exciting science lesson into how volcanos work. One way to find out is by visiting the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel in southwest Iceland.

At 4,461 feet, it is one of the longest lava tubes in the country. You can take a guided tour through the cave to get up close to the stunning lava rock formations and colorful walls that have formed below the earth.

A tour through the tunnel will walk you through the path where lava flowed during a volcanic eruption of the Bláfjöll Mountain Range more than 5,000 years ago. These tunnels were formed as flowing magma hardened and thickened, creating a crust roof resulting in a lava tube.

Outside the lava tube, you will see stunning green moss covering lava rock and craters formed from the eruption. It is only about a half hour from Reykjavik, and you can visit year-round. If you visit in the winter, plan on wearing extra layers and sturdy boots for icy and wet conditions.

Iceland has an intriguing history of Vikings that settled on the island and folklore involving trolls and other creatures that still influence the culture today. One of the most interesting ways to learn about the varied tentacles of Icelandic culture is by visiting some of its museums. Some of them are seemingly mainstream, while others, sometimes found off the beaten path, explore some rather unusual finds.

In Reykjavik, the National Museum of Iceland is a good place to visit to explore Icelandic history and settlement. The Saga Museum also gives insight into the Viking heritage, with life-sized replicas of early settlers, offering a nice history lesson before you venture into some of the other types of museums.

Start your quirky museum visit with The Punk Museum on the back street of Reykjavik, which delves into Iceland's punk music scene that emerged in the 1970s. The Árbær Open Air Museum (within the Reykjavik City Museum) is another experience worth trying as you see more than 20 buildings that form a small early settlement village.

Not far from Reykjavik in Njarðvík is the Viking World Museum , which has an exact replica of a Viking ship that was discovered in Norway in the late 1800s and exhibitions detailing the Norse settlement.

One of the more unique museums in Iceland is the Sigurgeir's Bird Museum at Mývatn . The tiny museum features a collection of more than 300 preserved bird specimens representing over 180 species and an extensive collection of eggs.

The Library of Water in Stykkishólmur will give you insight into Iceland's natural environment, with dozens of columns holding water from ice caps. The Nonsense Museum in the Westfjords is a quirky stop to enjoy a large collection of random items, from sugar cubes to police hats that came from forces around the world.

For those who are interested in a deep dive into the history of Iceland's folklore, you should visit The Museum of Icelandic Witchcraft and Sorcery in the Westfjords in Hólmavík village. This museum gives insight into some of the tales and history on which Icelandic beliefs are based. This can be a tough visit for some, and parents should give it a preview before taking their children inside.

When it comes to Iceland, the scenery is naturally stunning year-round, but certain times of the year are better than others to catch some of its most sought-after attributes.

For most visitors, the best time to visit Iceland is in the summer . But, the best time can also depend on what you want to experience. Do you want to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, visit when there is the most hours of daylight, or navigate the Ring Road with no snow? Or, do you want to travel during the low season to get the best rates on hotels and airfare? All of these factors matter when determining the best time to go to Iceland for your specific travel priorities.

Each season in Iceland comes with unique opportunities for exploration and the natural experiences that the island is famous for, like the midnight sun, aurora borealis, and hot springs.

Summer : Summer is hands down one of the best times to go to Iceland. It is the season with the best weather conditions, comfortable temperatures, the best opportunities for sightseeing, and when the roads and hiking trails are open and dry.

You get a front-row seat to the midnight sun. From May through August there is complete sunlight at midnight . While 24 hours of daylight makes it tough to sleep during your trip, it gives you more time to experience all that there is to see and do in Iceland. Summer is a great time to see minke whales out of Reykjavik.

Fall: The fall season is a lovely time to visit Iceland, when temperatures are slightly cooler, the summer tourists are gone, and the weather conditions are still favorable to do things like trekking on a glacier and riding an ATV over lava fields.

Fall colors on the trees are pretty, especially if you are horseback riding or hiking on one of the mountain trails. As fall dips into November, your chances of seeing the northern lights increase, and roads may start to close due to weather conditions. It is also a nice time to visit the Blue Lagoon when there are not so many tourists.

Winter: Winter days in Iceland can have almost 19 hours of darkness. It has the most inclement weather, but the top reason for visiting in the winter months is the chance to see the elusive northern lights. Prices will be cheaper for accommodations, and you will have plenty of availability on tours since it is the off-season.

Winter is a great time to take advantage of the snowfall in Iceland, with excursions like exploring ice caves and snowmobiling. It can be a fun time to visit the Blue Lagoon and the local hot springs where you can warm up – that is, until you get out.

Spring: Early spring in Iceland may still have snow-covered roads, but the days are starting to get longer. You also still have a chance to catch the northern lights during your visit. This shoulder season may limit some winter activities as they come to an end, and some summer excursions may not be available yet.

Spring is a great time to go whale watching, with many kinds of tours available out of Reykjavik. Spring is when you can catch a glimpse of another of Iceland's famous animal residents, the puffin, the unusual-looking bird that is more active in the spring.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

The Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide For All Seasons

July 19, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   2 Comments

If you are planning your Iceland travels, this is where you should start!

This page has all of the pertinent information that you need to know all in one place so that when you are planning your Iceland travel, you can easily have this on hand!

Iceland is one of our favorite places and one of the most unique and amazing places on the planet! It is the reason so many travelers keep getting hooked and coming back again and again!

We know that planning a trip to Iceland can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Our Iceland travel guide will be a “starting off” point for you so that you can visualize a lot of our favorite and most helpful posts on this website!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

We will help you compare costs, find tours, choose the perfect Iceland itinerary, learn how to pack, explore different regions, and decide when the best time to travel Iceland is for you!

Luckily for you, all seasons have their benefits when visiting Iceland, it just depends on what you hope to get out of your trip!

Our detailed Iceland travel guide has come to be as a result of many trips to Iceland over the course of many years but at one point, we started just like you!

We didn’t know what to do or where to go. But with a ton of research and traveling Iceland in all seasons, we are here to make it easy for you to understand!

Below you can find a selection of our suggested Iceland travel articles to get you started on planning your trip. Our website has a whole lot more than just these articles, but this is a jumping off point for you to begin.

Make sure to search our website if you are looking for something specific because we probably just forgot to add it here!

Discover our custom Iceland travel itineraries! While we have hundreds of helpful posts, sometimes it is nice to have a pre-packaged itinerary you can use right away!

Practical Information For Traveling Iceland

Here are some practical tips and information for your Iceland travels! From money in Iceland to how much it is going to cost to visit, this is where you can start the overall planning of your journey!

• 7 Helpful Things To Know About Money In Iceland
• 12 Best Apps For Iceland To Download For Your Trip
• Prices In Iceland: How To Figure Out Your Trip Cost
• 48 Inspiring Quotes About Iceland
• What To Wear In Iceland: Iceland Packing List For Winter + Summer

When To Travel To Iceland

Of course the question of the hour is when to plan your Iceland travels! And we totally get this!

At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong time to travel to Iceland! There are pros and cons to each season and each season depends on what you are looking to get out of your trip.

We break down how to choose and the articles below can help you decide!

• How To Choose The Best Time To Visit Iceland
• 5 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In Spring
• 6 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In January
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In February
• 6 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In March
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In April
• 6 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In May
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In June
• 6 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In July
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In August
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In September
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In October
• 7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In November
• 5 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In December

Winter Travel In Iceland

Traveling to Iceland in winter is an entirely different ballgame. Iceland is actually quite mild in winter, but there are some things you need to know in order to safely experience the country.

For example, weather changes quickly and you could be caught in a dangerous storm if you aren’t careful. And how about tips for chasing the Northern Lights?

• The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Iceland In Winter
• 10 Epic Iceland Glacier Tours
• How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours In Iceland

Iceland Travel Itineraries

After visiting Iceland many times, we like to think that our Iceland itinerary suggestions are pretty good! They have helped hundreds of thousands [no really!] of people plan their trips over the years.

Below, we break it down so that you can easily plan your trip to Iceland, no matter what amount of time you plan to be there!

• Best Iceland Itinerary Ideas From 1 Day To 2 Weeks
• The Ultimate 4 Days In Iceland Itinerary
• The Best 5 Days In Iceland Itinerary + Hidden Gems!
• The Ultimate Golden Circle Itinerary
• 60 Best Stops On Your Ring Road Itinerary
• 15 Epic Iceland Road Trip Itineraries
• The Best 3 Days In Iceland Itinerary For Any Time Of Year

Where To Stay In Iceland

Somehow, Iceland has a lot of places and very few places to stay! There are lots of places if you know the right spots, or it can feel like options are limited if you aren’t looking in the right places.

Luckily for you, we know all the right places to look and have compiled these lists of where to stay during your Iceland travels. This includes tips and help for all budgets.

Whether you are visiting Iceland on large budget or a shoestring budget, there is somewhere amazing for you to stay!

• Best Airbnbs in Iceland (Cabins, Cottages And More)
• Where To Stay In Iceland: Best Hotels By Area
• Exactly Where To Stay In Reykjavik On Any Budget
• The Ultimate Guide To Camping In Iceland
• 15 Best Luxury Hotels In Iceland
• 15 Best Hotels In Vik Iceland
• 12 Best Akureyri Hotels And Hostels For All Budgets
• 12 Best Hofn Hotels And Hostels For All Budgets

Best Tours And Day Trips In Iceland

Depending on your travel style, you may want to do a variety of tours during your Iceland trip! We have done many tours in Iceland and there are some experiences you can’t even have on your own!

If you aren’t usually a tour person, that is okay! But just keep in mind that some experiences such as glacier hikes or whale watching must be done on a tour.

We have pulled together a great deal of information on affordable and high quality tours to experience during your travels to Iceland!

• 16 Best Tours In Iceland
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours
• 14 Best Golden Circle Tours
• 26 Best Day Tripos From Reykjavik

Driving In Iceland

Don’t want to do a tour and prefer to drive? That is okay! This is probably the most important Iceland travel section as it is highly important to safely drive a car in Iceland!

Even if you are taking some tours, you may want to drive as it is! Here are our massive posts on driving in Iceland that you really should read!

• Everything You Need To Know Before Driving In Iceland
• 7 Big Mistakes To Avoid When Renting A Car In Iceland

Things To Do In Iceland

There are so many things to do in Iceland! We have an entire tab/section about this on our website and we couldn’t possibly list all of the amazing things to do and see here!

We are going to throw in a few posts to start you off, but we highly suggest heading to our things to do tab to learn more! This will help inspire your Iceland travel itinerary.

• 40 Bucket-List Things To Do In Iceland
• The Complete Guide To The Blue Lagoon In Iceland
• Pretty Cities And Towns In Iceland
• Golden Circle Iceland: Best Stops, Driving Tips And Tours
• 8 Amazing National Parks In Iceland
• 11 Prettiest Churches In Iceland
• 17 Unique Things To Do In Reykjavik
• 30 Best Iceland Waterfalls
• 60 Best Iceland Ring Road Stops
• 10 Best Places To See In South Iceland
• 18 Best Places To See In North Iceland
• Visiting Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• 5 Things To Know About Skogafoss Waterfall Iceland
• Tips For Visiting Bruafoss Waterfall
• 14 Best Things To Do In East Iceland
• 11 Best Easy Hikes In Iceland That Will Blow Your Mind
• 7 Big Mistakes To Avoid At The Iceland Plane Crash
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula: 10 Epic Stops
• 5 Things To Know Before Visiting Westfjords Iceland
• 5 Things To Know Before Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall
• 12 Magical Secret Spots And Hidden Gems In Iceland
• 5 Magical Black Sand Beaches In Iceland

Reykjavik Planning Tips

Ah Reykjavik, the capital that everyone must see once! Personally, we don’t suggest more than a half day in Reykjavik because we prefer the nature, but everyone is different!

If you want to see Reykjavik or use it as your home base for your Iceland travels, this is the section for you!

• 17 Unique Things To Do in Reykjavik
• 26 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik
• 10 Best Places To See The Northern Lights in Reykjavik
• 15 Best Restaurants In Reykjavik You Must Try

Romantic Iceland Travel Planning

Iceland is one of the most romantic destinations on earth! Many people plan their honeymoon, elopement, proposal, or wedding in Iceland.

If you fit into any of these categories, then this is the section of this Iceland travel guide for you! We hope you have a wonderful time!

• How To Plan A Wildly Romantic Iceland Honeymoon
• How To Plan Your Dream Iceland Wedding
• The Ultimate Guide To The Blue Lagoon

We hope that you found our Iceland travel guide to be a helpful starting off point for planning your dream trip to Iceland! Iceland is truly one of our favorite places on earth and we are happy to help answer any questions! Feel free to comment below or contact us by email!

Reader Interactions

February 15, 2021 at 5:10 pm

How much is the usual tips for Tour Guide & Driver for about 9 hrs trips/Tours ??????

February 15, 2021 at 5:12 pm

How much is the usual tips for 9 hrs tours for Tour Guide & Driver ??????

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Discover everything you need to know about Iceland here. Nordic Visitor’s travel guide includes all the essential information, including top attractions, preparation tips, and popular ways to travel.

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12 top places to visit in Iceland in 2024

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Iceland has lots to offer – here's our 12 favorite places to visit © evenfh / Shutterstock

Iceland appears on the must-do lists of many travelers – its charming cities and towns, other-worldly landscapes and astronomical phenomena keep the crowds coming back for more every year.

But how do you choose the highlights of your trip in a country packed with so many of them ? Don't worry, we've picked twelve incredible places, some of which are on the beaten path and some of which are not, but all of which might surprise you. Here are our favorite places to visit in Iceland  in 2024.

1. Mosfellsbær

Best for a quiet escape near Reykjavík

Reykjavík’s friendly rural neighbor is Mosfellsbær . Its biggest attractions are the small mountains that surround the town, including Úlfarsfell, Mosfell, Helgafell and Reykjafell – all great for short hikes. Lake Hafravatn is a gem that locals flock to for swimming and kayaking fun. Time your visit to coincide with the popular vegetable market that carries the produce of local farmers, open every Saturday in late summer in the valley.

The valley is also host to Gljúfrasteinn , a museum dedicated to Nobel Prize laureate Halldór Laxness, and Laxnes farm, which offers horseback riding tours. Álafosskvos is a tiny art and design village with a long-standing yarn store and local craft stores full of beautifully made items you'll want to bring home.

Planning tip: You can visit Mosfellsbær year-round. Þingvellir National Park is a short drive away – avoid the crowds by visiting between September and May .

Best base on the Golden Circle

In rural South Iceland lies Flúðir, best known for its mushroom greenhouse. If mushrooms are your thing, the greenhouse’s bistro offers all things funghi-related. Continue your gastronomic adventure and try authentic Ethiopian food at Minilik . Nearby is the Secret Lagoon , known locally as Gamla Laugin, and Hrunalaug , a small natural pool with stacked stone walls in the peaceful countryside. Flúðir is on the Golden Circle with some of the country’s best-known attractions within reach – it’s the perfect base for exploring the region.

Planning tip: It’s best not to visit Flúðir in the summer. It's the height of the tourist season, and spring and autumn are more enjoyable.

3. Stokkseyri

Best kayaking tours near Reykjavík

This charming South Coast village attracts foodies from far and wide to its seafood restaurant Fjöruborðið  – the lobster is especially popular. Kayaking in its narrow channels is a calm and fun activity, and the neighboring village of Eyrarbakki has beautifully restored timber houses and a heritage museum in a home that seems frozen in time. Nearby is Raufarhólshellir , one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland.

Planning tip: You can visit Stokkseyri and engage in most of the activities year-round, but service hours may change in winter, and kayaking depends on the weather.

Best base for glacial tours

In the kingdom of Vatnajökull , harbor town Höfn welcomes you with its lobster restaurants and stunning glacial views. This is a great base for exploring Europe’s largest glacier, from Jökulsárlón and other glacial lagoons with their floating icebergs to glacial hikes, snowmobile tours and ever-changing ice caves. Among local tour operators is the family-run company Glacier Journey .

Planning tip: You can visit year-round, but the ice-caving season is roughly from November through March. Glacial hikes are usually not possible at the height of summer. Always go with a guide and in good weather.

5. Borgarfjörður eystri

Best place for puffin-watching

The tiny village of Bakkagerði is surrounded by colorful mountains in Borgarfjörður eystri, one of the more remote Eastfjords. Getting there is an adventure in its own right as the road winds its way up and down a mountain pass. As you enter the village, time seems to slow down. Here you can relax and enjoy nature, go on hikes, explore on two wheels or treat yourself to a boat tour  and watch puffins up close from the bird-watching house on Hafnarhólmi.

Planning tips: To see puffins, visit from mid-May to early August. Christmas-related events take place during Advent, and snow sports are possible during winter.

6. Hallormsstaðaskógur

Best for camping in the woods

Visit Iceland’s largest forest and be amazed by its size. The campsite in Atlavík , on the banks of Lake Lagarfljót, is one of the country’s best and most popular among local tourists. There are 40 km (25 miles) of walking paths around the forest, so you can lose yourself among the trees and then climb up and enjoy the view of the lake – perhaps even catch a glimpse of the vicious wyrm that is said to inhabit it. Egilsstaðir, East Iceland’s largest town, is only 30 minutes away, and some of the region’s biggest attractions, like Hengifoss waterfall , are also close by.

Planning tips: Visit between June and August for camping. A forest festival is held around Midsummer’s Day, and mid-August to mid-September is the berry-picking season. Enjoy autumn colors from late August through October.

Best place for whale watching

Visit Iceland’s whale-watching capital and enjoy the friendly atmosphere as you stroll around the harbor. Joining a whale-watching tour of Skjálfandi Bay with one of the local tour operators is a must, perhaps combined with a bird-watching tour or a visit to Flatey Island , which was inhabited until the 1960s.

Learn more about whales at the fascinating Whale Museum , enjoy a beer at Gamli Baukur and try the salted cod at Salka Restaurant . Afterward, soak in the geothermal waters at Geosea and take in the gorgeous view of Skjálfandi. Húsavík is on the Diamond Circle and Arctic Coast Way.

Planning tips: Whale watching is available from March to November but is most enjoyable during the summer months.

8. Hauganes

Best place for a special bathing experience

There’s more than meets the eye at this hamlet on the shore of Eyjafjörður in North Iceland. The hot tubs on the beach have become quite the attraction, and it’s also tempting to brave the frigid waves. Try the salted cod at Baccalá restaurant and bar – it's prepared by local company Ektafiskur. You can also catch your own fish on sea angling tours and go whale watching from Hauganes. In the nearby village of Árskógssandur, Kaldi beer is brewed, and the brewery also offers beer baths . The ferry to the idyllic island Hrísey goes from Árskógssandur.

Planning tips: Visit for the midnight sun in the summer and northern lights in winter. Sea tours are best enjoyed in the summer.

9. Siglufjörður

Best for snow sports

Although it's best known as the location for the crime series Trapped , Siglufjörður is not scary at all. It’s a peaceful fishing community that used to be isolated – trapped, if you will – between tall mountains but has now been connected to the neighboring town of Ólafsfjörður by a tunnel. It was one of Iceland’s bustling herring processing centers during the boom that reached its height in the mid-20 th century.

This remarkable history is documented in the Herring Era Museum . Today, Siglufjörður is one of North Iceland’s centers for snow sports  – don't miss the popular Moroccan restaurant in town after a day on the slopes. Siglufjörður also has a beloved ski resort , and off-piste skiing is possible in the mountains of the Tröllaskagi peninsula.

Planning tips: Visit between January and March for cross-country and Alpine skiing at resorts. Off-piste skiing is usually possible through May. 

10. Hólmavík

Best base for exploring Strandir

On the northern coast of the Westfjords lies the fishing village Hólmavík, which has made a name for itself with its Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft . Diving into Iceland’s darker past, it tells tales of sorcerers and magic spells, witch burnings and other heinous acts. In a charming old house, Café Riis serves delicious pizzas and other treats.

The nearby town of Drangsnes has several  beachside hot tubs that could easily tempt you to spend the rest of the day gazing at the incredible scenery. A bumpy – and slightly scary – gravel road continues onwards along the Strandir region to some of Iceland’s remotest communities in Árneshreppur. At the edge of the world, you can book a night at Hótel Djúpavík .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer as the road to the remoter communities is often hazardous or closed in winter.

Best place for quiet contemplation

In the middle of Breiðafjörður Bay, between the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula , is an island which seems to have been lost in time. Only a handful of people live there year-round, but in summer the village comes to life when part-time residents come and stay in the beautifully restored houses. Walk around Flatey among grazing sheep and busy seabirds (watch out for the Arctic terns), look out at the ocean and find inner calm. The ferry goes between Stykkishólmur and Brjánslækur .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer when the weather is more stable for sailing and more services are open.

12. Húsafell

Best resort for diverse experiences

In the innermost part of Borgarfjörður in the West, almost at the foot of Langjökull glacier, is the forested paradise of Húsafell – its hotel, campground and cottages have made it very popular among local tourists. There are both easy and challenging walking paths, including to the spectacular waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Glacial tours are available from Húsafell, and Víðgelmir , a massive lava cave, is just a few minutes away. You can soak in the on-site swimming pools or go on a hike to the more exclusive Canyon Baths .

Planning tips: Visit year-round. Summer is best for camping and hiking, and winter is best for viewing the northern lights.

This article was first published Apr 15, 2021 and updated Mar 12, 2024.

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Iceland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise normal precautions in Iceland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iceland.

If you decide to travel to Iceland: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Iceland. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist . 

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Three months required, six months recommended beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.

Two pages required for entry stamp

Not required for stays less than 90 days

Any amount over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy reykjavik.

Engjateigur 7 105 Reykjavik Iceland Telephone: +(354) 595-2200 Emergency Telephone: +(354) 595-2248 Fax: +(354) 562-9118 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. 

Visit the  Icelandic Directorate of Immigration  website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe: If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .  
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. 
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Iceland.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

Crime:  Iceland has a low crime rate with rare instances of violent crime. Using common sense will go a long way in ensuring you do not become a victim.

• Do not put bags containing valuables, such as your passport, on the floor in bars or nightclubs.
• Do not leave your valuables in parked vehicles, even if the vehicle is locked.
• Be aware that downtown Reykjavik can become disorderly in the late night to early morning hours as people are leaving bars and clubs.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at [email protected] . After working hours, call +(354)595-2248. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should dial 112 for immediate emergency assistance and may contact the Embassy for non-emergency assistance.

The  Icelandic Red Cross  has a helpline that is open 24 hours a day, every day, for anyone needing assistance with grief, anxiety, fear, depression, or suicidal thoughts. Dial 1717 to reach Red Cross volunteers in Iceland.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules are regularly enforced; and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is sporadic due to limited hours and geographic distance from care. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first-responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

• Importation of whale products to the United States: All persons are barred from importing whale products to the United States.
• The  Marine Mammal Protection Act  makes it illegal to bring back whale products to the United States. 
• Any importation of products containing whale to the United States will result in the seizure of the goods and possible criminal prosecution. Penalties include jail time and fines of up to $10,000.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:

 See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Iceland. 

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities : The law in Iceland law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities and requires that public accommodations and government buildings, including elevators, be accessible to individuals with disabilities. All government buildings in Iceland are wheelchair accessible, as are most museums, malls, and large shopping centers in the capital area. The public bus system and taxis provide transportation services for individuals with disabilities.

• Many stores in the old downtown area in Reykjavik, such as around the popular shopping street of Laugavegur, are not wheelchair accessible.
• Many sidewalks in downtown Reykjavik lack curb ramps, and the streets are steep.
• Hotels outside Reykjavik and smaller hotels in the capital are not all accessible to individuals with disabilities.
• There are very few paths or marked trails at natural attractions found outside urban areas.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing:  COVID PCR and antigen tests are available for U.S. citizens in Iceland and results are available within 72 hours. PCR tests that are not conducted upon request are at the citizen’s expense and average 7000ISK or $54. Antigen rapid tests are provided by private companies and the price varies between them. Test results are provided via text message or via e-mail.

COVID-19 Vaccines:  The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Iceland. Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Medical care in Iceland is of high quality, but limited services are available outside large, urban areas. The Icelandic medical system offers coverage only for people who live in Iceland. Non-residents are expected to pay their own medical costs, and you should be prepared to pay your bill in full before leaving the hospital or clinic.

For  emergency services in Iceland,  dial 112 . For non-emergency medical assistance in the Reykjavik metropolitan area, dial 544-4114 during business hours. During non-business hours, dial 1770.

Ambulance services are: 

• Not present throughout the country or have long response times  except in or near major population areas such as Reykjavik.  Iceland does have air ambulance services, but they are limited by weather and distance to the patient.
• We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments, though most hospitals and clinics in Iceland do accept credit cards.  See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.  Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check with the  government of Iceland  to ensure the medication is legal in Iceland. Please review the CDC guidance on purchasing medicine overseas. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals.  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available in the Reykjavik area and other major cities but health care in rural areas may be limited or unavailable.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals if the patient is not a permanent resident or citizen of Iceland.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are available but in-patient care is frequently operating at capacity, and patients may require a wait-time for admission. Hospital-based care is only available in larger cities.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy

Surrogacy is illegal in Iceland.

Adventure Travel

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

General Health Language

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Icerland

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving in Iceland is on the right side of the road, as in the United States.

• All travelers in Iceland are strongly encouraged to monitor weather and road safety year-round through safetravel.is and road.is through the web or smart device applications.
• While in Iceland, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States . Less than one-third of Iceland’s total road network is paved , and many roads outside the capital, especially those that run through the center of the country, are impassable in winter  (October through April).
• Many bridges are only one lane wide (marked with a sign “Enibreid bru”) so drivers must be alert to oncoming traffic. There are also one-lane tunnels with pullout zones to yield to oncoming traffic.
• Extreme care  should be taken when driving in rural areas during the winter when daylight hours are limited and the weather and road conditions can change rapidly.
• Many routes in the interior of the country are  impassable  until July due to muddy conditions and swollen rivers caused by snowmelt.
• Always inform someone of your travel plans .

For information on current road conditions throughout the country please consult  The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerdin) website. This website can show you in real time the status of most roads in Iceland, color-coded by status.

Traffic Laws: You can use a valid U.S. driver’s license for up to 90 days while visiting Iceland, but you must be at least 17 years old to drive.

• Icelandic law requires drivers to keep  headlights on at all times .
• Talking on cell phones while driving is prohibited , except when using a hands-free system, and is subject to a fine of 5,000 Icelandic Kronur (approximately $45).
• Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense in Iceland . Drivers can be charged with Driving Under the Influence with a blood alcohol level as low as .05%.
• Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit is  50 km/h  in urban areas and  30 km/h  in residential areas.
• In rural areas, the speed limit depends on the type of road: on dirt and gravel roads, the speed limit is  80 km/h (50 mph) ; on paved highways, the speed limit is  90 km/h (55 mph) .
• It is  illegal  to turn right on a red light.
• In  traffic circles , always yield to cars coming from the left/ the inside lane.
• The use of seatbelts is mandatory  in both the front and rear seats.
• Children under the age of six  must be secured in a size and weight appropriate car seat.
• Drivers are held responsible for any passenger under the age of 15 not wearing a seatbelt.
• No one shorter than 140 centimters, lighter than 40 kilograms (or 88 pounds), or younger than 12 years of age is allowed to ride in a front seat equipped with an airbag.

Public Transportation: Public transportation in Iceland is safe and reliable.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Iceland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Iceland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Iceland should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the  Maritime Administration  website. Information may also be posted to the websites of the  U.S. Coast Guard  and the  National Geospace Intelligence Agency  (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Iceland . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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‘Overtourism’ crackdown enters Iceland as the country plans new measures to prioritize locals over hot spring-obsessed visitors

Iceland has a complicated relationship with tourism. 

Home to hot springs and volcanos, Iceland has wanted to lure tourists with its stunning natural attractions. This set off a meteoric rise in visitor numbers, soaring from less than 500,000 in 2010 to an expected 2.3 million this year. While that’s created a cash cow for Iceland’s tourism industry, it’s also created fresh housing troubles for those who call the country home. 

But the country has had enough. It now wants to clamp down on “overtourism” with taxes and higher fees to check tourist numbers while not harming a lucrative sector of its economy.  

“We are trying still to mold the taxation system for the tourism sector for the future,” Icelandic Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson told CNBC on Monday. 

A possible new measure would be similar to surge pricing, wherein a higher tax would be charged during peak travel than at other times of the year—although this is still in the works, Benediktsson added. He also said a “sustainability balance check” was considered to look after Iceland’s nature and local communities.  

Earlier this year, Iceland reintroduced a tourist tax that it scrapped during the COVID-19 pandemic. The modest fee—around 600 Icelandic krona ($4.34)—applies to hotels, campsites, cruise ships, and other forms of accommodation. While Benediktsson sees the measure as an “important decision,” he also thinks more must be done.  

“We would like to lean more towards a system where the user pays. As I see it, we would want to go more toward accession fees to the magnets, as we call them, around the country,” the prime minister said. 

Tourism is important to the Icelandic economy as it derives 8.5% of its GDP from the sector, according to data from Statistics Iceland . From Game of Thrones fans to Blue Lagoon enthusiasts, Iceland has piqued the interest of many. The number of visitors has increased in the last few years despite interruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic and volcanic eruptions . 

At the same time, locals have wrestled with finding homes to rent as more are swept into short-term rentals for visitors. Prices have also increased with higher interest rates , often pricing tenants out. 

Iceland isn’t alone in resisting overtourism—Venice recently imposed a $5 short-term visitor fee that could help curb footfall in a city that’s famously swamped with tourists for much of the year. 

Given the interest in the historic Italian city, Venice collected €37 million ($39.6 million) from tourist taxes last year. 

On the other hand, Spain has included a new fee that reflects on hotel bills, contributing towards a fund for heat pumps and solar panels at schools. 

“So far we have spent these taxes on compensating the impact tourists have on the city, including cleaning services, safety and public transport,” Jordi Valls, Barcelona’s head of economic and tourism promotion, told Bloomberg in February. “This year we’ve decided to go a step further and spend the tax on financing public services from a climate point of view.” 

It’s unclear if these charges will turn enough visitors away to solve the issue of overtourism and its consequences. In Venice, for instance, the new charge hasn’t depressed visitor numbers just yet. Locals have also protested against the tourist tax policy, arguing it might not have as much of an impact. 

With the pandemic in the rear-view mirror, thousands of more tourists are expected yearly in Iceland. The country has the tall task of finding policies that balance encouraging tourists to still come to the city while limiting their numbers and prioritizing the locals.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

Iceland's foreign tourist revenue up 3% y-o-y in 1Q2024

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Iceland’s volcanic eruptions likely to last for decades, say researchers

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Created : Jun 26, 2024, 17:00 IST

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This warning comes from an international team of researchers, including experts from the Universities of Oregon and California at San Diego, after studying the series of eruptions that began on the Reykjanes Peninsula in 2021.

This warning comes from an international team of researchers, including experts from the Universities of Oregon and California at San Diego, after studying the series of eruptions that began on the Reykjanes Peninsula in 2021. Read less

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This warning comes from an international team of researchers, including experts from the Universities of Oregon and California at San Diego, after studying the series of eruptions that began on the Re...