What to Do in Iceland: 15 Best Things to See & Explore

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what to do in iceland

Have you ever wondered why Iceland is the ultimate adventure spot? It’s a place where nature’s wonders are unmatched. You’ll see volcanic landscapes and glacial marvels that change how you see beauty.

Iceland’s attractions offer an epic journey through unique environments. You can enjoy geothermal spas, see dramatic waterfalls, or chase the northern lights. It’s a Nordic paradise that offers experiences unlike any other place.

Your guide to Iceland will reveal its secrets. You’ll explore volcanic lands and dive into local culture. Discover why people from all over come here. Get ready for an adventure that combines stunning views, exciting activities, and top travel tips.

Iceland has everything from black sand beaches to massive glaciers. It’s a place for every traveler. Start your once-in-a-lifetime journey and see how it changes your view of adventure and beauty.

👉 Discover more posts about Iceland for insider travel tips and regional highlights.

Planning a bigger trip? Visit my Europe Travel Guide for must-see destinations, food experiences, and itinerary ideas across the continent.

Explore the Golden Circle: Iceland’s Must-See Attractions

The Golden Circle is a top spot for things to do in Iceland. It’s a scenic route that takes you through the country’s most beautiful landscapes. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland.

This 300-kilometer route connects three amazing natural wonders. It’s a day trip from Reykjavik that shows off Iceland’s geological wonders.

Thingvellir National Park: A Historical Treasure

Thingvellir National Park is more than just a pretty place. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with deep historical value. It sits between two tectonic plates, giving visitors a unique geological experience.

First site of Iceland’s parliamentary meetings
Stunning rift valley landscape
Critical location in Viking history

Geysir Geothermal Area: Nature’s Spectacular Show

The Geysir Geothermal Area is a sight to behold. The original Geysir is quiet now, but Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes. It shoots water up to 30 meters high.

Geyser Name	Eruption Height	Frequency
Strokkur	30 meters	Every 5-10 minutes
Great Geysir	Dormant	Rare

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Golden Waterfall

Gullfoss, or “Golden Waterfall,” is a two-tiered wonder. It drops 32 meters into a canyon. The mist and rainbows make it a top photo spot.

The Golden Circle is a unique look at Iceland’s wild beauty. It’s perfect for nature lovers, history fans, or anyone looking for adventure.

Iceland

What to Do in Iceland: 15 Best Things to See & Explore

Iceland

Best Time to Travel to Iceland: 5 Tips to Pick Your Season

Discover the Vibrant City Life of Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the heart of Iceland, giving travelers a unique urban experience. It’s a city that mixes modern style with deep cultural roots. It’s a key spot for anyone looking to explore Iceland’s activities.

A sweeping panorama of Reykjavik's vibrant city landscape, captured under a golden-hour glow. In the foreground, charming colorful houses with pointed roofs line quaint cobblestone streets, their facades reflecting in shimmering canals. In the middle ground, the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church towers majestically, its striking modernist architecture bathed in warm sunlight. Beyond, the harbor teems with activity, fishing vessels and yachts bobbing on the calm waters of Faxaflói Bay. In the distance, the rugged mountains of the Icelandic countryside rise up, their snow-capped peaks touching the boundless, ethereal sky. The scene exudes a sense of tranquility and timeless beauty, perfectly capturing the allure of Reykjavik's vibrant city life.

Hallgrímskirkja Church: An Architectural Marvel

Hallgrímskirkja Church is Reykjavik’s top landmark. It stands out with its unique design, looking like a Viking longship. From its deck, you get amazing views of the city. It’s a must-see on your Iceland trip, showing off the country’s design talent.

Harpa Concert Hall: A Modern Cultural Gem

The Harpa Concert Hall is a top example of Icelandic design today. Its glass walls mirror the landscape, creating a stunning sight. It’s a key place for music and culture, showing Reykjavik’s lively arts scene.

Local Cuisine and Breweries: A Culinary Adventure

Reykjavik’s food scene is a fun journey through Icelandic tastes. You can try:

Taste traditional hot dogs at the famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
Explore craft breweries like Borg Brugghús
Try fresh seafood at local restaurants
Experience Icelandic street food and local delicacies

The city’s food offers a tasty peek into Iceland’s food culture. It’s a key part of your Icelandic adventure.

Experience Iceland’s Natural Wonders at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

If you’re looking for the most breathtaking iceland adventure tours, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a top choice. This stunning natural wonder offers an otherworldly landscape. It will captivate your imagination and leave you in awe of nature’s incredible beauty.

A serene, twilight scene of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, located in the southeastern region of Iceland. Vast, luminous icebergs float gracefully across the still, mirror-like waters, their intricate, crystalline forms casting ethereal reflections. Hues of blue, white, and gray create a mesmerizing, otherworldly atmosphere, accentuated by the soft, warm glow of the setting sun peeking through the cloudy sky. In the distance, the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Vatnajökull glacier loom, adding a sense of majestic scale to the tranquil, dreamlike landscape. The camera's wide-angle lens captures the full, awe-inspiring grandeur of this natural wonder, inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in the serene, enchanting beauty of Jokulsarlon.

The glacial lagoon presents a mesmerizing scene of floating icebergs. They drift peacefully across crystal-clear waters. Each iceberg tells a unique story, shaped by centuries of glacial movement.

Iceberg Viewing

When exploring Jokulsarlon, you’ll see icebergs in spectacular formations. Their colors range from pristine white to deep blue. This creates a visual spectacle that seems almost unreal.

Some tips for the best viewing experience include:

Visit during summer for clearer views and longer daylight hours
Bring binoculars for detailed observation
Wear warm layers to stay comfortable

Boat Tours

Boat tours offer an immersive way to experience the lagoon up close. You’ll glide between massive ice formations. This gives you an intimate perspective of these ancient glacial remnants.

Zodiac and amphibian boat tours provide different experiences for adventurers.

Photography Spots

Photographers will find Jokulsarlon a dream destination. The nearby Diamond Beach offers incredible opportunities to capture ice chunks against black volcanic sand. Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for stunning shots.

Adventure Through Vatnajökull National Park

Vatnajökull National Park is a stunning place for outdoor lovers. It has glaciers, volcanic land, and untouched nature. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with amazing iceland adventure tours.

A majestic glacier landscape under a dramatic, moody sky. In the foreground, a group of adventurous hikers traverses the icy terrain, their gear and equipment adding a sense of scale. Towering, crystalline peaks and serrated ridges rise in the middle distance, casting long shadows across the frozen expanse. In the background, the vast, undulating Vatnajökull glacier stretches to the horizon, its brilliant white surface punctuated by deep crevasses and azure-hued meltwater pools. Diffused, golden sunlight filters through the clouds, casting a warm glow over the scene and lending an air of tranquility and awe. Shot with a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the environment.

The park’s varied landscape offers many ways to see Iceland’s beauty. You’ll see where old ice meets rough landscapes. It’s a place that tests and inspires all kinds of adventurers.

Hiking Trails for Every Explorer

Vatnajökull has hiking paths for everyone:

Easy paths with gentle slopes
Paths with some ups and downs for those in between
Harder trails for the most experienced hikers
Guided tours available for safe navigation

Glacier Tours: An Unparalleled Experience

Glacier tours in Vatnajökull are truly magical. You’ll walk on ancient ice with the right gear and expert guides. These tours let you see massive ice structures up close, a rare experience.

Wildlife Watching Opportunities

The national park is more than ice and rock. Wildlife fans can see Arctic animals like:

Arctic foxes in their home
Diverse bird species
Reindeer sometimes

Your trip to Vatnajökull National Park is an unforgettable adventure. It connects you with Iceland’s most beautiful natural wonders.

Marvel at the Blue Lagoon: A Geothermal Spa Experience

A serene geothermal pool nestled amidst volcanic landscapes, the Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a natural wonder. Crystal-clear turquoise waters are surrounded by rugged, snow-capped mountains in the distance. Wispy, ethereal steam rises from the mineral-rich waters, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Bathers relax and unwind, their silhouettes visible through the mist. Dramatic lighting from the sun casts long shadows, highlighting the textured, rocky terrain. The scene evokes a sense of tranquility and relaxation, inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in this unique geothermal spa experience.

The Blue Lagoon is a top spot for tourists in Iceland. It’s a geothermal spa in the middle of Iceland’s volcanic beauty. Here, you can relax in milky blue waters surrounded by lava fields.

The Blue Lagoon is more than a tourist spot. It’s a place for wellness in Iceland’s volcanic area. Here, you can soak in waters full of silica and minerals.

Luxurious Spa Treatments

At the Blue Lagoon, you can get special spa treatments. These treatments use Iceland’s geothermal environment. Here are some options:

Silica Mud Mask: Known for cleaning the skin
In-water Massage: A unique floating relaxation
Algae Body Treatment: A mineral-rich experience

Essential Visitor Tips

Here are some tips for your Blue Lagoon visit:

Book your tickets early
Bring a waterproof hair tie
Use the free conditioner to protect your hair
Rinse off before getting in the lagoon

Pro tip: The Blue Lagoon is a bit pricey but worth it. It offers a unique spa experience that shows off Iceland’s natural beauty.

Chase the Northern Lights in Winter

A breathtaking night sky over the rugged Icelandic landscape, the Northern Lights dancing in vibrant greens, purples, and blues across the heavens. In the foreground, a snow-covered mountainous terrain, dotted with patches of lush, mossy vegetation. The aurora borealis illuminates the scene, casting a magical glow over the tranquil glacial lake in the middle ground. The image is captured with a wide-angle lens, accentuating the grand scale and dramatic scale of the natural wonder. The overall mood is one of awe and wonder, showcasing the ethereal beauty of this natural phenomenon in Iceland.

Iceland travel tips often mention the magical Northern Lights. This natural wonder turns dark winter skies into a stunning light show. It draws travelers from all over the world.

Seeing the aurora borealis should be your top thing to do in Iceland. The dancing green, purple, and blue lights create a magical spectacle. Your chances of seeing this wonder depend on several factors.

Prime Viewing Locations

Thingvellir National Park
Akureyri in North Iceland
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Remote countryside areas away from city lights

Best Time to Visit

For the best Northern Lights experience, visit between September and April. Peak viewing season is from late September to late March. This is when nights are longest and darkest.

Here are some key tips for Northern Lights hunting:

Check aurora forecasts daily
Choose locations with minimal light pollution
Be prepared for unpredictable weather
Pack warm, layered clothing
Bring a good camera with manual settings

Seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed. But, being patient and flexible can help. These traits are your best friends when chasing this incredible natural wonder.

Experience the Unique Geothermal Landscapes of Haukadalur

When planning your trip to Iceland, Haukadalur is a must-see. This geothermal valley is a stunning display of nature’s power. It shows why Iceland is known as the “Land of Fire and Ice”.

A vast, otherworldly landscape of Haukadalur, Iceland. In the foreground, steaming geothermal vents and bubbling mud pools dot the rugged, moss-covered terrain. Towering, snow-capped mountains rise in the distance, their peaks piercing the ethereal mist. Shafts of warm, golden light filter through the atmospheric haze, casting a serene, almost mystical glow over the scene. The air is thick with the earthy, sulfurous scent of the active geothermal system. A wide-angle, cinematic perspective captures the scale and grandeur of this unique, geologically active valley, inviting the viewer to experience the raw power and mesmerizing beauty of Iceland's volcanic heartland.

In the heart of Iceland’s Golden Circle, Haukadalur is a world of wonder. It’s filled with geothermal activity, making it seem like another planet.

Discovering Hot Springs

Hot springs in Haukadalur paint the landscape in vibrant colors. These pools bubble and steam, showing the heat beneath the Earth.

Temperatures range from warm to scalding hot
Mineral-rich waters create stunning color variations
Safe viewing platforms provide excellent photo opportunities

Exploring Mud Pots

The mud pots in Haukadalur are a sight to see. They show the energy of Iceland’s volcanoes.

Thick, gray mud bubbles and churns
Sulfuric scents fill the air
Unique geological formations create stunning visual displays

Nature Walks and Viewing

Trails in Haukadalur let you explore safely. The main attraction is Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every 5-10 minutes.

Well-maintained walking paths
Incredible photo opportunities
Close-up views of geothermal activity

Your visit to Haukadalur will be unforgettable. It gives you a close look at the Earth’s most dynamic natural processes.

Take a Road Trip Along the Ring Road

Driving the Ring Road in Iceland is a must-do. It’s the best way to see the country’s stunning views. This epic journey goes around the whole island, giving you amazing sights and adventures.

A vast, winding road cuts through a dramatic Icelandic landscape, flanked by towering mountains, rolling hills, and shimmering glacial lakes. The sky is painted in soft hues of blue and gray, with wispy clouds drifting overhead. In the foreground, a lone car navigates the scenic route, its headlights cutting through the mist. The scene captures the essence of the Iceland Ring Road, a breathtaking journey through some of the country's most stunning natural wonders. Captured with a wide-angle lens, the image conveys a sense of grandeur and solitude, inviting the viewer to embark on their own Icelandic adventure.

Planning your trip on the Ring Road needs thought. The full trip is about 828 miles and takes 7-10 days. Make sure your car is ready and pack for different weather.

Essential Stops Along the Route

Reykjavik – Starting point with urban charm
Vik – Famous black sand beaches
Hofn – Stunning glacier views
Egilsstadir – Eastern fjord region
Akureyri – Northern Iceland’s cultural hub

Scenic Driving Considerations

Season	Road Conditions	Recommended Vehicle
Summer (June-August)	Mostly clear, mild weather	Standard rental car
Winter (September-May)	Potentially challenging	4×4 with winter tires

Pro tip: Always check road conditions before and during your trip. Iceland’s weather can change fast. Being flexible is key for a great Ring Road trip.

Don’t forget to pack warm clothes, download maps, and have a good GPS. Your Ring Road trip will show you Iceland’s most beautiful sights. You’ll see waterfalls and volcanic landscapes.

Discover the Westfjords: Iceland’s Hidden Gem

If you’re looking for unique iceland activities, the Westfjords are a must-see. This remote area in northwestern Iceland offers breathtaking views. It’s untouched by most tourists.

A majestic landscape of the Westfjords, Iceland, bathed in the warm glow of the evening sun. In the foreground, rugged cliffs and rocky shores give way to a serene fjord, its mirror-like surface reflecting the surrounding peaks. Farther in the distance, snow-capped mountains rise up, their jagged silhouettes cutting across the sky. The scene is framed by a wide-angle lens, capturing the grandeur and vastness of this remote and unspoiled region. The mood is one of tranquility and awe, inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this hidden gem of Iceland.

The Westfjords road trip is about 1,000 kilometers long. It winds through dramatic cliffs, deep fjords, and stunning wilderness. It’s perfect for those who love adventure.

Dynjandi Waterfall: Nature’s Masterpiece

The Dynjandi waterfall is a highlight in the Westfjords. It’s called the “Jewel of the Westfjords”. This waterfall drops over 100 meters in a beautiful, trapezoidal shape. It’s a dream for photographers and a must-see for travelers.

Charming Local Villages

The Westfjords have quaint villages that show traditional Icelandic life. These villages offer:

Authentic local culture
Stunning architectural heritage
Warm hospitality of rural Icelandic communities
Opportunities to experience traditional fishing lifestyles

Exploring these villages reveals why the Westfjords are a top choice for those seeking real experiences. They offer a break from the crowds.

Explore Iceland’s Rich Viking History

Visiting Iceland is like stepping back in time into the Viking era. The country’s history is filled with stories of early settlers who made this island a remarkable place. Viking history is a top attraction in Iceland, connecting today’s visitors with ancient traditions.

Exploring Iceland means learning about its unique democratic roots. In 930 AD, Vikings created the world’s first parliament at Thingvellir. This move away from monarchies made Iceland stand out in Europe, showing the settlers’ innovative spirit.

Uncovering Viking Narratives

In Reykjavik, two museums bring Viking tales to life. The Settlement Exhibition lets you walk through ancient remains, giving you a feel of early Icelandic life. The Saga Museum has realistic exhibits that show Iceland’s pioneering moments, highlighting the settlers’ bravery and resilience.

Viking history is more than just old artifacts; it’s a part of Iceland’s culture today. By visiting these museums and sites, you’ll understand how these settlers influenced a society that continues to fascinate people worldwide.