From towering volcanoes to majestic glaciers, waterfalls, blue lagoons, ice caves, dramatic fjords, and more, Iceland is a landscape of wonders where you can explore everything nature has in its power. Nicknamed the “Land of Fire & Ice,” this country has so much to offer that it’s going to take an entire lifetime to experience all the wonders. Whether you want to enjoy nature, immerse yourself in heartfelt adventure, or explore places that can force you to pinch yourself in order to believe whatever you’re seeing is true, Iceland is the country to visit. With lots of research and efforts, we have jotted down the 10 things to do and the best places to visit in Iceland for you to enjoy this Nordic wonderland.
Places to Visit in Iceland
Iceland is dream location for outdoor enthusiasts and landscape photographers due to its impressive and dramatic landscapes. Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, this Nordic island country in Europe is perfect for shot-term and true adventurers at heart.
1. Reykjavik
If the history of Vikings has fascinated you, Reykjavik is one of the places to visit in Iceland where you can explore the Viking heritage. This capital city of Iceland offers a deep insight into the Vikings artifacts, customs, and Icelandic culture. For history enthusiasts, Reykjavik offers lots to discover.
2. Akureyri
Travelers who want to soak in nature, adventure, and explore cultural treasures, Akureyri promises an unforgettable experiences. This beauty of the charming city is something that will stay in your heart forever. Its picturesque streets, art scene, cuisine, and historic architecture make best places to see in Iceland. It is also an ideal city to watch whales and explore captivating fjord.
3. Selfoss
Natural landscapes and picturesque surroundings make Selfoss a must-visit place in Iceland. You can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and river rafting. The city is also dotted with quaint cafes, hot springs, woodlands, and cultural landmarks.
4. Vík í Mýrdal
For nature and adventure enthusiasts, Vík í Mýrdal is one of the most awe-inspiring cities in Iceland. It offers plenty of natural wonders due to its dramatic landscapes. Visitors can explore black sand beaches, weird basalt columns, iconic sea stacks, and towering cliffs of Dyrhólaey.
5. Keflavík
Interesting history, amazing culture, natural beauty, and rich maritime heritage can be explored in Keflavik, which is located on scenic southwestern coast of Iceland. It is a pleasure to explore stroll through the streets and see colorful houses, charming boutiques, and quaint cafes. A day spent in this city can truly be full of adventure and discovery.
6. Hofn
Hofn is a charming village dotted with stunning natural beauty, glittering glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and attractive fjords. It is best to visit for seafood delicacies and enjoy glacier hiking, wildlife watching, and ice caving. Travelers can explore its maritime heritage visiting museums.
7. Jökulsárlón
Popular because of its glacial wonders, Jökulsárlón is must-visit destination. Taking a boat tour and having a close encounter with the floating icy giants is an unforgettable experience. The ethereal beauty of glacial lagoon surrounded by the majestic mountains is a mesmerizing sight to immerse in.
8. Skaftafell
Renowned for its rugged wilderness and stunning landscapes, Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise. Whether visitors want to enjoy a leisurely walk or explore challenging treks, this city has it all. You can enjoy the breathtaking sight of cascading waterfalls, lush-green valleys, amazing basalt columns, and ancient glaciers.
9. Vestmannaeyjar
Dotted with charming villages, this archipelago is famous for its dramatic landscapes, towering cliffs, black sand beaches, and volcanic craters. You will love to embark on outdoor adventure, take a boat tour, and go birdwatching. Its picturesque scenery, vibrant culture, and rich history will make your visit memorable.
10. Arnarstapi
To explore an offbeat destination, this little fishing village is the best option. It is best to explore rugged cliff, amazing rock formations, and for a scenic hike. This picturesque coastal village is good for birdwatching, soaking in breathtaking scenery and pristine natural beauty.
10 Things to Do in Iceland
1. Be amazed with Skógafoss Waterfalls
Watching the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder is a pure delight. Plunging down from a height of 60 meters into a serene pool below, you can watch it closely from its foot or walk to the top and enjoy the view. Perfect for photography owing to its captivating scenery, Skógafoss is one the must visit places to see in Iceland.
2. Rejoice at the Northern Lights
The Northern Light is nature’s most mesmerizing light show. This natural phenomenon is one of the must-explore attractions in Iceland. This natural light display that happens in the skies occurs when the charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s magnetic field. The collision produces tiny flashes and fills the sky with colorful lights making a breathtaking spectacle to witness.
3. Explore the Golden Circle
Take a captivating journey through Iceland’s natural scene. The Golden Circle route offers three breathtaking attractions in the form of Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, which is a geothermal wonder, and the Thingvellir National Park. This popular tourist route is must for soaking in natural and historical landmarks.
4. Explore the Blue Lagoon
One of the most popular attractions in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa. The opaque, milky water of the lagoon offers the lagoon a unique look. A dip in the lagoon is good for rejuvenation due to the healing properties of the waters. This popular tourist site is must to witness the use of geothermal energy in Iceland.
5. Hike to Glacial Wonders
Take a guided tour and go on a glacier hike adventure at one of the scenic locations in Iceland. The tour will take to Sólheimajökull, Vatnajökull, or Langjökull where you can hike amidst Iceland’s icy realms. The glacier hiking adventure will offer a clear glimpse of the glacial wonders of these natural wonders.
6. Encounter Majestic Waterfalls
Some of the world’s stunning waterfalls are located in Iceland. If it’s not possible to explore all, ensure that you see Seljalandsfoss and Godafoss. The spectacle and sounds of the waterfall framed by rugged landscapes of Iceland will mesmerize you. The unique charm and character of waterfalls in Iceland are must to experience.
7. Explore the Land of Ice Caves
Visit the Vatnajökull National Park and Langjökull Glacier to witness breathtaking ice caves curated by nature itself. Exploring these hidden wonders of Iceland is best to experience the country’s glaciers. The unique, intricate patterns, and shapes of ice sculptures created due to the melting and refreezing water is an awe-inspiring sight to behold.
8. Traverse Volcanic Landscapes
Iceland has over 100 volcanic mountains that have been contributing for millions of years in making Iceland a unique and dramatic landscape. In fact, it is difficult to find such an impressive volcanic landscape anywhere in the world. Embark on an unforgettable adventure exploring colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming geothermal vents, and bubbling mud pools.
9. Cruise Along Glacier Lagoons
Exploring the Iceland’s glacier lagoons is a lifetime opportunity. For this, you will have to take a boat tour that will allow you to witness the towering icebergs that float unhindered. Viewing the floating icebergs with the majestic glaciers as the backdrop is a mesmerizing experience. The stunning scenery and tranquil ambiance create a captivating atmosphere to get lost in.
10. Drink in the Beauty of Asbyrgi Canyon
Flanked by steep cliffs rising to the height of 100 meters, Asbyrgi Canyon offers captivating viewpoints to witness native wildlife and get captivated by the dramatic scenery around. Nature has offered this majestic canyon the shape of a horseshoe, which has given rise to several legends. Embarking on the network of hiking trails of Absyrgi Canyon is an opportunity to witness some of the finest creations of nature.
Planning Your Iceland Adventure:
Brimming with cascading waterfalls, glacier lagoons, icy wonders, exceptional natural phenomenon, and ethereal beauty, visiting Iceland is best to witness nature at its best. From taking glacier hiking, strolling picturesque streets, witnessing unique rock formations, blue lagoons, milky waterfalls, and exploring rich history and cultural treasures, a trip to Iceland is bound to be unforgettable. So, whatever you want to discover on your Icelandic journey, be ready to be surprised by the unique and dramatic landscapes of this land of fire and ice.
FAQs about Iceland
1. What attractions to see on first visit to Iceland
Iceland has numerous wonders and selecting a few is tricky. However, if this is your first visit, start with like Skógafoss Waterfall. Another must-see attraction is the Northern Lights. You shouldn’t miss exploring the Golden Circle since it comprises Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park.
2. How to utilize the limited time in hand to make the most of my Iceland visit?
You can utilize your limited time by covering the must-visit destination like Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon, and the captivating waterfalls and glaciers. This way, you can Viking heritage, relax, and take off-beaten path for soak in nature.
3. What Iceland offers for adventure seekers?
There is abundance of options for adventure enthusiast to enjoy Iceland. You can go for glaciers hiking, explore Vatnajökull National Park for ice caves adventure, visit Akureyri for whale watching, and marvel at the glacier lagoons taking a boat our in Jökulsárlón glacial lake.
4. How to prepare to enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders?
To enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders, prepare yourself to encounter awe-inspiring experiences. You will need sturdy hiking boots, comfortable clothing that can keep you warm, and a good camera to capture the stunning beauty of Iceland. Just check the tours and weather conditions before moving out.
5. What cultural experiences I can experience in Iceland?
Iceland’s culture scene is vibrant just like its landscapes. Therea are a few historic sites and museums in Reykjavik visiting which you can explore Viking history. You can savor local food at Iceland’s charming, and soak in the art scene, and stroll the picturesque streets of Akureyri.
6. Do I need to apply for an Iceland Visa?
If you belong to a country that is a Member State of the Schengen Area, then there is no need to apply for the visa. Visitors of Schengen Area can stay up to 90 days. Others have to apply for the visa.
7. Can I travel to Iceland if I am not a citizen of the EU?
For a non- EU citizen to enter Iceland, you will need a Schengen Visa. But there are some Iceland visa requirements conditions that need to be fulfilled for the issuance of the visa. Check the official immigration website of Iceland in order to know the specific requirements.
8. How many days are allowed for a visitor with Schengen Visa to stay in Iceland?
In case of being granted an Icelandic Schengen visa for tourism, business or even family visits, a visitor cannot stay more than 90 days in the country.
9. Can one travel to other countries if they possess Icelandic Schengen Visa?
Yes, the Icelandic Schengen Visa enables you to travel to any of the 27 Schengen countries with one condition; you are not allowed to work or reside there for more than 90 days.
10. What is needed when applying for a visa to Iceland?
To apply for Iceland visa you must have a valid passport, itinerary, accommodation arrangements, proof of financial means, and medical insurance during the entire stay in Iceland.