Iceland is an incredible place to visit, brimming with stunning sights and experiences. From volcanic landscapes and great hiking trails to charming towns and delicious eats, there’s plenty to enjoy. You can’t miss the unique adventures that await you in this amazing country.
Planning your first trip to Iceland might feel overwhelming due to its size and the travel involved to see the sights. For convenience, consider pre-arranged tours or chartered excursions, though they can get expensive. We found driving to be a more cost-effective choice in the long run, giving us the freedom to explore at our own pace. Plus, it makes Northern Lights spotting a fun adventure—just drive out to the rural areas or national parks and watch the magic happen.
Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we took a 35-minute drive to the capital and joined a fantastic three-hour Whale Watching tour. Tickets were easy to book, but it’s wise to reserve in advance due to the tour’s popularity. While we didn’t spot ‘Moby Dick,’ we did enjoy sightings of minke whales and dolphins. Always factor in potential weather-related cancellations and allow some buffer time since tours can run late.
About a four-hour drive from Reykjavik, Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey offer one of southern Iceland’s most breathtaking coastlines. A stroll along the coastal trails at sunset provides fantastic views of the volcanic rocks and sands, especially the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
Horse riding through Iceland’s wind-blown tundra is a must-try, particularly at Hestheimar, a family-run horse farm 1.5 hours south of Reykjavik. Here, you can dive into learning about Icelandic horses and enjoy a guided tour into the wilderness.
Experiencing the Northern Lights is magical. Best seen in autumn and spring, they are a spectacle you’ll never forget. We stayed at Hotel Laki, where they offer a wake-up service to inform you when the lights are visible.
The Golden Circle, approximately a 300 km round-trip from Reykjavik, is perfect for soaking up some of Southern Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. You’ll encounter Strokkur, Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir Hot Spring area, and Thingvellir National Park, where you can witness the incredible sight of two tectonic plates pulling the land apart.
Just a short distance from Strokkur, the Gulfoss Waterfall offers spectacular views carved out by the Hvítá River. Visit early in the morning or late in the evening during summer to avoid crowds.
For a warming experience, check out the Laugarvatn Fontana hot baths near the Geysir area. Take advantage of the geothermal bread baking demonstration around lunchtime and enjoy a relaxing soak.
Close to Keflavik airport, the Blue Lagoon is a perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate. Visiting early ensures a quieter experience, but it remains one of Iceland’s iconic and beautiful destinations regardless of timing. We stayed at The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon for some added luxury, complete with a private lagoon.
Finally, both Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss provide close encounters with nature’s power. Seljalandsfoss allows you to walk behind the waterfall, while Skógafoss often showcases beautiful rainbows. If visiting in winter, be cautious of slippery paths.
Reykjavik is a vibrant city with attractions like Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, and lively music venues on Laugavegur Street, perfect for enjoying Iceland’s dynamic music scene on a Saturday night.