10 Best Things to Do in Iceland

Top 10 Things to Do in Iceland

• Visit the Blue Lagoon
• Explore the Golden Circle
• Hike on a Glacier
• See the Northern Lights
• Visit Reykjavik
• Go Whale Watching
• Go Inside a Volcano
• Visit Vatnajökull National Park
• Drive the Ring Road
• Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Now that you have the top 10 things to do in Iceland, let’s dive into each one and see what makes them so special.

1. Visit the Blue Lagoon

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal spa is located in a lava field and is known for its warm, milky blue waters. The Blue Lagoon is said to have healing properties due to its high concentration of silica, algae, and minerals.

My personal experience at the Blue Lagoon was amazing. The warm waters were so relaxing and the silica mud mask left my skin feeling soft and rejuvenated. I highly recommend visiting the Blue Lagoon during your trip to Iceland.

2. Explore the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that takes you to some of Iceland’s most famous sights. The route includes three main attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

I did the Golden Circle tour and it was one of my favorite experiences in Iceland. The landscape is breathtaking and the natural wonders are truly incredible. I especially enjoyed watching the geyser erupt and hiking through the national park.

3. Hike on a Glacier

Another unique experience in Iceland is hiking on a glacier. There are several glaciers in Iceland that offer guided tours for all skill levels. Walking on a glacier is a surreal experience and the views are absolutely stunning.

I went on a glacier hike with a guide and it was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my trip. The guide was knowledgeable and made sure we were safe at all times. I highly recommend adding a glacier hike to your Iceland itinerary.

4. See the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon that can be seen in Iceland during the winter months. The lights are created by charged particles from the sun colliding with particles in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Unfortunately, I did not get to see the Northern Lights during my trip to Iceland due to bad weather. However, I have heard from other travelers that it is a truly magical experience and worth staying up late for.

5. Visit Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland and is known for its colorful houses, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife. There are several museums, art galleries, and restaurants to explore in Reykjavik.

I spent a day in Reykjavik and enjoyed wandering around the city, trying local cuisine, and visiting the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church. If you are looking for a city break during your Iceland trip, Reykjavik is a must-visit.

6. Go Whale Watching

Iceland is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. There are several tour companies that offer boat trips to see humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins.

I went on a whale watching tour and it was an unforgettable experience. We saw several humpback whales and even got to witness them breaching. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

7. Go Inside a Volcano

Iceland is home to several volcanoes, some of which can be explored from the inside. The Thrihnukagigur volcano is one of the few in the world that you can actually enter.

I did not get to go inside a volcano during my trip to Iceland, but it is definitely on my bucket list for next time. The photos and videos I have seen of people exploring the inside of a volcano are absolutely breathtaking.

8. Visit Vatnajökull National Park

Vatnajökull National Park is the largest national park in Europe and is home to several glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls. There are several hiking trails and guided tours available in the park.

I did a glacier hike in Vatnajökull National Park and it was one of the highlights of my trip. The landscape is truly awe-inspiring and the experience was unforgettable.

9. Drive the Ring Road

The Ring Road is a 1,332 km road that circles around the entire country of Iceland. It is known for its stunning scenery and unique attractions.

I did not drive the entire Ring Road during my trip, but I did drive a portion of it and it was a fantastic experience. The road takes you through some of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes and offers plenty of opportunities for adventure.

10. Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a glacial lake located in southeastern Iceland. The lake is filled with icebergs that have broken off from the nearby glacier.

I visited Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and it was one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. The colors of the icebergs and the reflections on the water are truly stunning. I highly recommend adding this to your Iceland itinerary.

FAQs

1. When is the best time to visit Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to do. If you want to see the Northern Lights, visit during the winter months. If you want to hike and explore the outdoors, visit during the summer months.

2. What should I pack for a trip to Iceland?

Be sure to pack warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s better to be prepared for all types of weather.

3. Is Iceland expensive?

Iceland is known for being an expensive travel destination. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in hostels or Airbnb’s and cooking your own meals.