Located in Northern Europe, Iceland is an island country known for its extreme cold. If it is true that it is necessary to dress warmly, it is really a magic place to discover. If you like the change of scenery and wilderness, this country is for you! You can travel there all year round, and there are many places to visit. Here are the 15 most beautiful places to visit in Iceland during your next vacations.
1. Visit the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is THE place to visit in Iceland. Three main natural sites can be found here:
- Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
- Gullfoss waterfall,
- Geysir geothermal zone.
Natural heritage, wilderness, diving, hiking: these places are full of treasures. You'll discover a fascinating geology, which partly explains the history of Iceland's formation. If you like scuba diving, we recommend the Silfra fault. It's one of the 10 best dive sites in the world. We'll be taking a closer look at a number of these sites in this guide, as there are many well worth a visit. Book here your day at the Golden Circle and don't miss the Kerid Crater!
If you want to see another unique and amazing place, head for the Almannagja Gorge. Here, the earth splits in two, offering the spectacle of geological mechanisms still in motion in this part of Iceland. At the end of your walk, you can admire the Oxarárfoss waterfall.
2. Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland
How to spend a stay in Iceland without visiting Reykjavík and its surroundings? Nowadays, there are cheap airlines to reach the capital. You will be able to see the northern lights and have the wonders of nature at your doorstep. In the city, you will find art galleries and museums. Are you passionate about the Vikings? We invite you to discover the Saga Museum, which tells the history of the country in a very interesting way.
One of the most unusual places in Reykjavík is undoubtedly Lake Tjörnin. Located in the city center, it is also the access point to houses with unusual architecture. Do not hesitate to settle down in a restaurant of the city. There are some very good addresses, such as the 3 Frakkars and the Kopar.
3. The Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon
If you want to see an extraordinary natural spectacle, go to the glacial lagoon Jökulsárlón. With its blocks of ice that break off from the glacier when the ice thaws, you will be faced with a huge lake that seems to be adorned with giant diamonds... Nature in all its splendor and power... At sunrise or sunset, the contrast of colors is even more striking. If you are discreet and have a little luck, you may also see seals, moving happily between the icebergs.
To visit this ice lagoon, you can take the car or the bus. In winter, the site is appreciated, because it allows to be photographed with northern lights in the background.
4. The Thríhnjúkagígur volcano
Have you ever imagined yourself descending into a magma chamber? It is possible, in the heart of the long extinct volcano Thríhnjúkagígur. It's a must-see and unforgettable visit during a stay in Iceland! How can you forget the feeling of going down into the earth, in the very place where millions of years ago disasters could have been played out? It is the only volcano in the world which will allow you to make this descent out of standards.
Remember to reassure your children. They can indeed be easily impressed when it comes to erupting volcanoes... An explanation on the non-risk linked to this site is important before visiting it.
5. Visit the Dettifoss waterfalls
If you like waterfalls, you have chosen your vacation destination well... There are many of them in Iceland, but the most famous and the ones that are absolutely worth a visit are the Dettifoss waterfalls, in the north-east of the country.
44 meters high, 100 meters wide, they are simply majestic. These falls are located on the glacial river Jökulsá in Fjöllum, and end in the Jökulsá gorges.
It is advisable to see the falls from the west side (track 862), where the paths are paved. On the east side, it is not impossible, but much longer and via inconvenient paths. Dettifoss Falls is a very romantic place, if you are looking for a honeymoon destination.
6. Whale watching in Iceland
Iceland is the perfect place for whale watching. There are several types of whale:
- blue whales
- humpback whale,
- rorqual.
The north and west of the country are where you'll see the most whales. You may also see some during your visit to a fjord. From Reykjavík or Húsavík, there are several whale-watching boat trips. There are so many of them that the chances of encountering one are high. Book yours here ! Come aboard, it'll be a wonderful day, and one you'll remember fondly.
7. The Silfra Fault, a great diving spot
The purity of Iceland in all its splendor... The Silfra Fault boasts some of the clearest, most transparent water in the world. With a depth of 63 meters, it's one of Iceland's most popular diving spots. Buy your and enjoy the experience! Admittedly, you'll have to dive with good airtight equipment, but the magic of the place is well worth it! You'll be able to observe the seabed with unrivalled clarity: up to 100 m visibility in translucent water. Snorkelling enthusiasts will also be delighted by Iceland's pristine waters.
8. The Blue Lagoon spa area
Have you ever heard of a natural hot pool? You'll be able to experience it just 40 minutes from Reykjavík, at the Blue Lagoon. The nearby geothermal power station supplies natural hot water to the capital and surrounding area. The surplus, meanwhile, ends up... in the lagoon, which is open to all to enjoy. You can bathe in water at around 38°. A unique experience that you can book hereespecially if it's a chilly day in Iceland!
9. The beautiful waterfall of Skogafoss
There are many spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. The Skogafoss waterfall is one of them. It is located in the south of the country, on the Skógá river. Go to the small village of Skógar, to walk to this breathtaking natural curiosity. You can get quite close to it, as a vast plain stretches out in front of it. It is not a place where you can spend the whole day, but a visit of the village and a small restaurant on the spot will be the occasion to contemplate these beautiful waterfalls.
10. Lake Myvatn, the second largest lake in Iceland
There are many natural lakes in Iceland. Among those worth seeing, we can name the lake Myvatn, which is located in the north-east of the country. It will be an opportunity to bathe in the many hot springs that are nearby. The wild environment of the place invites to rest and relax. You can also see amazing landscapes, which are the result of a particularly intense seismic activity. Craters are visible, which will allow you to combine swimming and discovering the natural curiosities of the region.
11. The famous Nordic fjords
Fjords are the result of long years of natural and geological phenomena. Ancient glaciers have moved, evolved, to become canyons or submerged valleys. Today, these are perfect places to consider a sea trip to see the whales. We recommend the fjords located in the west, if you want to enjoy a magnificent view, colorful and magical. The Hvalfjördur fjord is a must. Do not hesitate to offer you a night at the Hotel Glymur, located right next door, to fully enjoy it.
12. Discover the geysers of Geysir
In Geysir, you will find beautiful geysers typical of the Nordic countries that you can admire along the roads. It is a natural phenomenon to see at least once during a trip to Iceland. The Strokkur geyser is particularly famous, because it propels its water up to 20 meters high! If you fall at the right moment, the big geyser will also offer you a beautiful spectacle. However, it only gushes twice a day, or even three times at the most.
13. A visit to the Askja volcano
As we mentioned, Iceland is a land of volcanoes. TheAskja volcano, located in the Vatnajökull National Park, is very famous. Very isolated, it will nevertheless offer you a striking natural spectacle. If you wish to go there, you will have to be well equipped: good walking shoes, warm clothes, water and food reserves. The numerous repeated eruptions have gradually created a caldera containing two lakes, which makes the view even more amazing.
14. Bolafjall Mountain
Keep your hiking boots on for a while, to climb to the top of a mountain that will offer you one of the most beautiful views in the country. You can start your climb from Bolungarvik, a small fishing village typical of the island. There are also many beautiful things to see in this village, such as the Osvor Sea Museum. As you hike, you will enjoy beautiful views, ending up on top of Bolafjall mountain.
15. Seljalandsfoss waterfall
If waterfalls are your thing, you can round off your stay with a visit to Seljalandsfoss, one of the island's most famous waterfalls. Located 28 kilometers from Skogafoss, these waterfalls plunge 65 meters into the sea, offering a breathtaking spectacle. Even more so if you visit at dusk. The shimmering colors of the sky complete a view that's already superb in daylight.
Another reason why these falls are so popular is thatyou can walk behind them without getting hurt. You do need to be careful, though, as the ground is extremely slippery! Let yourself be overwhelmed by the magic of the place... It's exactly the kind of place that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your trip to Iceland. If you're interested in adventure, you can buy here your day trip to the south coast!
When is the best time to go to Iceland?
The ideal periods to visit Iceland do not change too much from our habits. Between June and August, you will enjoy very mild temperatures, up to 20°. It is rarely hotter in the country! In winter, temperatures are around 0°, sometimes less.
Warning: the weather can be unpredictable in Iceland, whatever the season. It is therefore advisable to pack good sweaters and a waterproof coat, even if you go in summer. It is not uncommon to see snowfall during this period... Sandstorms and strong winds can also occur. Summer remains the best season to travel, but you should be prepared.
If you want to see the Northern Lights, it is better to plan your vacation in September or October. Temperatures are still mild, and the skies will be adorned with breathtaking colors and ripples! The period of the Northern Lights is generally from September to March.
In any season, Iceland has many wonders to offer. It is not for nothing that it is one of the happiest countries in the world.
What to do in Iceland in summer?
We have seen it, the nature is rich in the country and the activities are numerous. But then, what to do in Iceland in May, June, July and August?
The fjords will be inevitably a must during your visit of Iceland in summer. You will find some very beautiful ones in the northwest of the country, but also in the east. The scenery at the Golden Circle and Jökulsárlón are also worth considering.
From May to June, you can start to watch the ice melt. It is a wonderful sight, which can be seen at the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon. From July onwards, all amenities are open (restaurants, museums, hotels, etc.). All hiking trails are also open, so you can see the whole country. You will be able to make unforgettable excursions by bike, on foot or on horseback. A trek to Thorsmork for example will be a great idea for your summer vacations in Iceland.
What to do in Iceland in winter?
The cold does not frighten you? It is a good thing, because Iceland in winter is superb... Its snow, its glaciers, its northern lights: so many treasures to see and to see again! But then, what to do in Iceland in November and the following months?
In addition to the northern lights which will be very present, you will be able to visit an ice cave. It is also possible to book an excursion to hike on a glacier. All the instructions will be given to you to equip yourself accordingly. Even if the days are short in winter (between 4 and 9 hours of sunshine depending on the month), you can also take advantage of it by going on a dog sledding trip. You will spend a pleasant moment, while enjoying the presence of these exceptional dogs adapted to these cold regions.
If you want to enjoy the view, go to the waterfalls we mentioned... If your vacation takes place during the coldest time of the year, you might see the waterfalls... frozen!
A little trip to the Blue Lagoon will also be very pleasant, in order to warm up in its waters at 38° despite the ambient cold. In winter, it can be interesting to stay in Reykjavík. You will find very good hotels and restaurants, and the capital can be visited in any season.
How to visit Iceland in 5 days?
If you only have to spend 5 days in Iceland, focus on some of the most important places.
The first day, put your bags in Reykjavík and visit its key places:
- historical center,
- the Hallgrimskirkja church,
- its various museums,
- the street-art circuit,
- the Perlan dome, etc.
On the second day, we will go to the Blue Lagoon, about 50 kilometers from there. This immersion in the warm waters of this cold country will leave you a wonderful memory. Not far from there, the same day, you will be able to climb to the top of the Fagradalsfjall volcano. Although it is constantly erupting, you can still watch its continuous lava flows without risk. To eat, the Lava Restaurant welcomes you with pleasure next to Blue Lagoon.
You can spend your third day visiting at least one beautiful place in the Golden Circle. Among the points of interest to target, we recommend :
- thingvellir National Park,
- the crater lake of Kerið,
- bruarfoss waterfall,
- Geysir and its geysers,
- the Gullfoss waterfall,
- the Silfra fault,
- bruarfoss waterfall,
- the crater lake of Kerið.
You won't have time to do them all, but a small selection among these points of interest will be interesting. Since the Golden Circle is only 47 km from the capital, you will not necessarily need to change hotels during your stay. However, you should expect a slightly longer travel time than you are used to in France, if you travel in winter. Traffic conditions can be more difficult, depending on the state of the roads (snow, ice).
You can devote your fourth day to a visit of a fjord. You will find two of them north of the capital: Hvalfjördur, which means "whale fjord", and Borgarfjördur (the "fortress fjord").
Finally, end your 5-day Iceland vacation with a whale watching trip on your fifth day. There are many boats departing near Reykjavík, offering you an unforgettable excursion. You'll stay in the area and enjoy a sight you'll probably never see again. You won't come back too late, so you won't miss your flight back to Reykjavik airport!
If you only need to come for a 2-day express weekend, you can focus your stay on visiting Blue Lagoon and the fjords. We advise you to take a hotel in Reykjavík, so that you can visit the city in the evening, after your excursions.
If we often think of Iceland as a large cold land devoid of points of interest, it is indeed a mistake. Lovers of wild nature will love Iceland precisely for the richness of its lands. Fjords, hot springs, waterfalls, mountains, volcanoes: it's nature in its raw state, the result of millions of years of shaping, that lies at your feet. Iceland, which is a destination accessible without a passport, promises an unforgettable vacation rich in emotions.
