Iceland Travel Guide - Travel Insights and Tips

Aptly called the “Land of Fire and Ice,” Iceland is a country that fascinates visitors with diverse attractions, each equally enchanting in its own right. Whether it be the active Mount Hekla volcano, the picturesque terrains leading to the Thorsmork Valley, or the enchanting allure of the Vatnajokull Glacier, a trip to Iceland unravels the wonders of nature in its rawest form. Explore the glacial ice caves, hike through world-renowned routes such as the Laugavegur trail, and embark on an Iceland Northern Lights trip — there are endless destinations and attractions to look forward to in this Nordic country. Here are our top 13 things to do in Iceland.

Iceland is an absolute paradise on earth, a treat for nature and adventure lovers. Whether its glaciers tours, ice cave tours, amazing volcanoes, or beautiful waterfalls, this heavenly destination is simply waiting to be explored. In this article we’ll be exploring what to see and visit in Iceland, i.e. must-visit destinations and attractions in Iceland. If you're looking for more, please see our Things to do in Iceland article for more information. Make sure you get the best of Iceland by adding these other-worldly experiences into your itinerary, for many are activities that simply cannot be found anywhere else on the planet.

Reykjavik is a capital city unlike any other, even amongst its Scandinavian neighbours. Though a very small city, with a population of just over 200,000 people, the city is bursting with life and culture. With colourful homes, fascinating museums, and a vibrant art scene, Reykjavik has more to offer than its reputation as a gateway to Iceland’s natural wonders suggests.In no particular order, here are our top 12 things to do in Reykjavik to break bucket list. If you have time to explore destinations outside of Reykjavik, read our Top Things to do in Iceland article as well.

Few places on earth feature such stunning landscapes and biological diversity as Iceland’s Lake Myvatn. This shallow lake and the wetlands around it is almost a world in itself, full of natural wonders waiting to be explored.With so much to see in and around the Lake Myvatn area, it can be quite overwhelming to plan a visit. We’re here to help and to share some general knowledge about the area and the top 10 things you simply must do when visiting Lake Myvatn.  

Situated on the edge of the Arctic Circle, North Iceland is known for its raw, untamed beauty. While South Iceland boasts accessible and touristy sites, an Iceland trip to the north unveils a realm of diverse terrains with many hidden gems. As you drive the north leg of the iconic Ring Road, an adventure unfolds, leading you through popular yet less crowded spots, offering an authentic experience of Iceland's enchanting wilderness. From the captivating Lake Mývatn, adorned with geothermal areas, to North Iceland’s very own capital, Akureyri, and Dettifoss, Europe's second most powerful waterfall, the region boasts iconic man-made landmarks, volcanic formations, and natural spectacles. Activities to pursue in the North Icelandic destinations are aplenty, ranging from hiking and camping to horseback riding and relaxing in natural hot springs.Our curated list below highlights the top things to do in North Iceland, offering a glimpse into the captivating experiences that await in this untouched paradise.

November is when winter officially starts in Iceland. The “Land of Ice and Fire” is bejeweled with pristine icy terrains during this time. From ice caving in Katla to skiing in Seljalandsdalur to embarking on an Iceland Northern Lights tour in Jokulsarlon, there are plenty of activities to partake in. If you are someone who craves adventure in a tranquil setting, then a trip to Iceland in November is a must. Just remember to wrap up warm and pay heed to the weather forecast and local travel advisory.

October marks the transition period in Iceland when the warm summer temperatures gradually make way for colder winter conditions. This is the time when mountain trails in some parts of the country start closing off, but opportunities still abound for several fun and exciting activities. Go kayaking in Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, chase the Northern Lights, or take a road trip along Route 1 or the Ring Road. A trip to Iceland in October offers both summer and winter attractions.

August is one of the best months to tour Iceland. Officially, in the month of summer, August’s weather is nothing less than glorious. Warm days with plenty of sunshine are perfect for enjoying Iceland’s beautiful landscapes, from summiting its volcanic peaks and hiking over glaciers to visiting national parks and cruising along the country’s rugged coastline. If you are lucky, you might even spot the first Northern Lights of the season, especially in the latter half of the month.

July falls right in the middle of Iceland’s summer, and it is one of the best times to visit the country. The days are warm and long, and every nook and cranny of the country is open for exploration. From whale-watching to hiking to attending summer music festivals to diving in the Silfra fissure between two tectonic plates, a trip to Iceland in July makes for an unforgettable peak season holiday experience for travelers.

June marks the beginning of all things exciting in Iceland. It is the first summer month, the start of peak tourist season, and the month when you can witness the midnight sun phenomenon. June is when days are long — the longest in the year, and the countryside is in full bloom. The mountain paths that had been closed for winter are fully accessible now as the winter snow has fully melted off. The weather in June makes it the perfect time to spot wildlife, including whales, seals, and the famous puffin. A trip to Iceland in June is filled with many wonderful things to see and experience, making it the ideal time to visit this Nordic country. 

May is a lovely time to tour Iceland. Winter is long over, but it is not quite summer yet, which means pleasant spring weather conditions. Since most of the winter snow has melted by May, many of the country’s inaccessible mountain paths are open, allowing you to explore the outdoors and visit all corners of this country. From whale-watching and hiking to delightful trips on roads and trails, there are many wonderful things to do in Iceland during this month.

It’s no secret that Iceland has become an essential destination on every traveler’s bucket list. This northern wonderland boasts some of the most fantastic scenery of the northern hemisphere, including glaciers, volcanoes, and ice caves, forcing visitors to continue to come back for more. Whether you’re looking for a short getaway or a full backpacking adventure, Iceland has everything you are looking for. However, before packing up and heading north, here are a few different itineraries to plan the perfect length Iceland trip.If it’s your first time in Iceland, it is recommended that you spend at least 3-4 days visiting. This will definitely not be enough time to explore all that there is to offer, but it will help you plan a beginner’s trip around the island. There’s also an incredible Icelandic road trip for those who’d like to tackle Iceland’s iconic ring road. Technically, the full drive takes 24 hours; however, 7-8 days would allow you to visit all the major stops along the way. Generally, we advise to visit for not less than 7-8 days as you will then have sufficient time to explore much of the tours and attractions in Iceland.  Below please see a few good Iceland itineraries with duration’s of 4 days, 6 days and 8 days, respectively.

Thinking of an Iceland trip but can’t spare more than three days? Well, we have some great short itinerary ideas that you may be interested in. Ideally, it takes at least a week to explore all the popular sites and hidden treasures of Iceland. But if you are on a budget or have limited time, 3 days in Iceland is enough to squeeze in the top highlights. Here are a few exciting 3-day Iceland itineraries that include the country's most iconic destinations as well as some off-the-beaten-track gems.

While 4 days in Iceland won’t let you uncover every corner of the island, you can see some of its most captivating highlights in this time frame. From the dramatic volcanic landscapes that define the south coast to the soothing geothermal lagoons and majestic waterfalls, a short Iceland trip promises a concentrated glimpse into Iceland's natural wonders. With careful planning, you can seamlessly explore diverse regions, including the iconic Golden Circle, serene Blue Lagoon, and the striking black sands of Reynisfjara Beach, as mentioned in our 4-day Iceland tours recommendations below.

For those searching for the ideal Iceland travel itinerary for 5 days, you’re in for a treat. With 5 days in Iceland, you can immerse yourself in its striking contrasts, from the rugged beauty of the Westfjords to the geothermal wonders and majestic waterfalls that define the north and south. Although Iceland’s landmarks are spread across long, scenic drives, you can comfortably visit up to five destinations in five days. Explore charming towns like Ísafjörður, iconic waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and enjoy the nightlife of Reykjavik during your 5-day trip to Iceland.

Get the chance to uncover more of this island's unparalleled natural beauty compared to a shorter trip with 6 days in Iceland. With the extra days, you can venture further into Iceland’s rugged terrain, discover less-trodden trails, and enjoy a broader range of activities. Whether you explore the untamed wilderness of Eastern Iceland, visit the fascinating Westman Islands, or traverse the stunning landscapes of the Westfjords, your 6-day trip to Iceland promises breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences. Don’t miss witnessing breathtaking sights like Hengifoss waterfall and the iconic black sand beaches of Vik to uncover the best of Iceland. Below, we’ve curated three unique itinerary recommendations to inspire your perfect Iceland 6-day tours.

Covering all of Iceland's major destinations in just one week seems challenging, but you can make the most of your trip by strategically choosing an itinerary that aligns with your interests. Experience classic attractions on the Golden Circle and South Coast, explore lesser-known gems, embark on thrilling adventures like the Laugavegur trek, visit botanical gardens during the summers, or enjoy the enchanting winter scenery. Choose from seven unique itineraries curated by professionals and handpicked by us to make the most of your 7-day tour to Iceland.