Let’s get straight to it; Iceland is a gorgeous country, and you might be well aware of its breathtaking beauty by simple scenic postcards and Instagram pictures that frequently come across your eyes. But when you visit Iceland, there is more to what meets the eye. While the Nordic Island gathers attraction by a massive formation of dramatic volcanoes, dreamy geysers, ethereal beaches, and of course, glaciers, Iceland caves its way to your hearts by its culture, diversity, and friendly people.
If you’re thinking of visiting Iceland soon or are planning a great vacation, then there are a lot of things to choose from. You could take the day to explore the natural reserves and landmarks or take a step back to history, but if there is one thing for certain: you’re in for a great ride. Here are the top 10 things to do in Iceland:
1. Shiver With Glee At Vatnajökull Glacier
If you’re traveling to Iceland to sparkle in the ice and get a glimpse of glaciers beyond the Ice Age, then hitting Vatnajökull Glacier should be the first thing to cross off your travel list.
Location
Southeast Iceland
Why the Vatnajökull Glacier?
The Vatnajökull Glacier has an ice cave that looks exactly like it sounds; walls of ice rise higher to create a stunning room that would drive even Elsa’s Ice Castle to shame.
If you’re up for an adventure, then the Vatnajökull Glacier is perfect because not only is it Iceland’s largest glacier, but it requires a steady hike to reach.
When is the best time to visit Vatnajökull Glacier?
We suggest traveling during midday in Summers; the weather is just right and won’t be too cold. But if you’re a good sport, even a little winter hike won’t hurt. It’s really your call.
2. Enjoy the Unique Experience of Whale Watching
Whale watching is one of the most common and popular activities to do in Iceland, and you only take a single look to know why.
Location
While most of Northern Iceland offers the experience of whale watching, the guarantee is circumstantial unless you’re in Dalvik, where you have a 99% chance of spotting some whales.
Why Whale Watching
You could link up with the local touring companies or rent a boat to gaze on the lovely creatures spouting out of the water to blow off steam (quite literally) and be amazed by the sight that bestows you.
When is the best time to whale watch?
Because it’s a common sport, you can go to Northern Iceland anytime to whale watch. Just make sure you’re visiting on a pleasant day-nothing too cold.
3. Return to the Ice: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Iceland truly is the place to see ice, and you can get a glimpse of life at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a gorgeous and breath-taking lake with mystical floating icebergs and occasional seals.
Location
Southeast Route 1, near Skaftafell Nature Reserve.
Why Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
It’s truly like cool heaven on earth, and if you’re looking to spend a day picnicking somewhere chill and just relax while the sound of calm waters hits your ears, there’s nowhere better than Jökulsárlón Lake.
When is the best time to visit Jökulsárlón Glacier
In winter, the lagoon might be too cold to display its original beauty, which is why visiting summer-autumn is the ideal time; the weather will be cool but not crisp, and the pieces of ice floating down will make it a better trip.
4. Delight Your Inner Goth At Reynisfjara Beach
You’re probably familiar with the Reynisfjara Beach; it’s one of the world’s best black sand beaches and offers a mystical, ethereal vibe like no other.
Location
Vík í Mýrdal, South Coast, Iceland
Why Reynisfjara Beach?
With a very dramatic backdrop of jagged black rocks and greying outlines, the Reynisfjara Beach would definitely please your goth phase. The large basalt columns are immersed in tales and myths, and some even believe these impressive columns were once trolls who turned to stone. And if you’re a sucker for television and movie locations, these columns have been featured in the winning show Game of Thrones. However, it should be noted the beach is an aesthetic place but must be carefully tried as it houses wild waves and often dangerous ones too.
When is the best time to visit Reynisfjara Beach
Like other beaches, the best time to visit Reynisfjara is summer but if you’re hoping to catch some serious clicks, then aim for June. August is often catching tourists, so it can get slightly crowded.
5. Take An Adventure At Hraunfossar Waterfalls
Hraunfossar is a series of waterfalls formed by various rivulets which cascade into an enthralling show into fields. However, the most impressive and stunning part of the Hraunfossar is the lava fields through which the water passes.
Location
Hallmundarhraun, Langjökull glacier, Icelandic Interior
Why Hraunfossar Waterfalls?
This is the ultimate vacation spot for a thrill seeker; you can explore the various caves formed due to volcanic eruptions, swim in the pleasant water, or just admire the beauty at a distance. Either way, it’s a treat.
When is the best time to visit Hraunfossar Waterfalls?
The waterfalls become too cold and often freeze in winters, so the ideal time to visit is in the summers. Make sure to keep a lookout for crowds though, as tourists and locals absolutely love the place!
6. Take in the Architecture in Selfoss Centre
The Selfoss Town Centre is a small community in South Iceland and a quaint little place to go if you’re into exploring cute societies.
Location
Eyravegur 1, South Iceland
Why Selfoss Centre?
But a stronger reason to visit the Selfoss Centre is its grasp on great architecture; in the community, you’ll find several buildings with cutting-edge architecture dabbling in the classical restraints of beauty. It’s a place where the old meets the new but gives a sense of peaceful harmony. If architecture and civil engineering excite you, you can actually witness the rebuilding and restructure of some old buildings that had collapsed or succumbed to fire. But the community is regaining attraction by the promise of shops and things to do; you can explore the wood cathedral which was built during the middle ages or impress your inner Masterchef by visiting the Skyr center. The sky’s the limit!
When is the best time to visit Selfoss Centre?
Since Selfoss Centre is a community and not a natural reserve or landmark, you don’t have to restrict yourself to any specific time to visit; there isn’t a specific season that’ll suit you better, and the prices and crowds are fairly consistent year-round.
7. Spend An Entire Day By the Golden Circle
Don’t think the Golden Circle is just a plain route; while it offers a connection to the three most visited and loved places in Iceland, it’s a road full of beautiful and heavenly sceneries and smaller attractions enough to make your day.
Location
The Golden Circle is a 300 kilometer stretch of the route that connects three natural attractions of Iceland: Geysir Geothermal Area, Þingvellir National Park, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
Why the Golden Circle:
It’s the best road trip you’ll ever have; you can choose to rent a car or travel in touring groups to each of the three places and enjoy the best of both worlds.
The Geysir Geothermal Area is among several in Iceland which bestow tourists with gushes of hot water, but its consistency in delivering elation is enough to visit. The T/Þingvellir National Park is another historical and national site that makes a name solely for its rustic environment and dainty, old cottage core aesthetic. And last but not least, the Gullfoss Waterfall is another magical place to refresh your eyes.
When is the best time to visit the Golden Circle?
There’s no limit to when you can visit as it’s open round the year, but if you want to skip winters that seep to your bones, we’d suggest heading in the warmer months.
8. Northern Lights-The Name Is Enough!
One of the dreamiest and most unimaginable experiences you’ll ever witness, gazing at the romantic Northern Lights perfectly complements the beauty of the Land of Fire and Ice. There are numerous places in Iceland where you can see Northern Lights: the Þingvellir National Park is one place, and you can always find the lagoon in Reykjavik a cozy spot. But the Northern Lights aren’t restricted to Reykjavik; Skogar, Snaefellsnes, Hofn, and Hella all have places to witness the phenomenon.
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights is a unique phenomenon; it typically occurs when the sun is at its maximum power. But since this happens specifically at times, you can’t rely on the sun’s power to dictate your trip. However, you’ll find the Northern Lights a common phenomenon at all times; they’re always happening, even if they're light.
9. Dive And Snorkel in Silfra
Iceland offers all kinds of experiences, and if you’ve always wanted to dive in the deep cool waters of the country and introduce yourself to marine life, then diving and snorkeling in Silfra will tick all your boxes.
Location
Þingvallavatn Lake, Þingvellir National Park
Why Silfra?
Silfra is pretty cold, so most people attribute diving to an outwardly experience, but once you dive into the water and look around, all your worries will disappear. It’s a literal cold experience worth everything. Being the only place in the world where swimming between tectonic plates is an actual thing, Silfra has crystal clear water, which gives you an impressive and, dare we say, humbling view of Iceland.
When is the best time to dive and snorkel in Silfra?
Silfra diving and snorkeling isn’t your average experience; the water is pretty cold and can actually chill you to your bones, so it’s only logical you visit during extreme summers. Unless you’re a bit of a daredevil and like to take risks-even then, we don’t recommend diving in the winters.
10. Marvel At the Geothermal Lake Myvatn
We’ve talked about the ice of Iceland, the marvelous aura of light, and volcanoes. Now it’s time you know about one of the best places in Iceland: the Geothermal Lake of Myvatn.
Location
Off-road from Ring Road 1, 55 miles from Akureyri, North Iceland
Why Lake Myvatn?
This volcanic lake is a contrast to the literally chilling nature of the country and offers a natural hot bath. A natural lava crate fissure is pooled by water which retains a moderate temperature, and pseudo craters filled with ice create a paradoxical view. Indulge in an active wilderness and dip into the natural public baths at Myvatn, where even the simplest actions become imperial.
When is the best time to visit the Geothermal Lake Myvatn?
Once more, Iceland gives you the space to choose for yourself. If you visit in the summers, the birdlife will be much more active, and the volcanic craters will be pooled with mud and water. If you visit in the winters, the atmosphere will be cool, but the craters will occasionally pop steam bubbles into the water-it’s really what you prefer.