Top Iceland Attractions

Close your eyes, and imagine a lagoon filled with hot, milky blue water. As you stand on the shore, surrounded by the volcanic rock of lava fields, and see the steam rising off the water into a frigid twilight sky you might believe for a moment that you were standing on the surface of an alien world. As cosmic as this landscape might appear, it is actually an apt description of one of the most unique locals of our own amazing planet — the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, the most popular of the best hot springs in Iceland. 

The larger-than-life landscape of Iceland fits well with the idea of giant, mythical beasts such as dragons or griffins. The country is known as “the Land of Fire and Ice” after all. Unsurprisingly, there are mystical creatures that still dwell along the frigid coast of Iceland –  whales. The presence of whales in Iceland goes back centuries; these great creatures are featured in the sagas of the old Norse kings. Nowadays, their fame stems from the growing popularity of whale watching in Iceland. Known as the place to have a personal encounter with whales in Europe, Iceland is slowly becoming famous for sea excursions. Numerous Icelandic tales and legends talk about the intelligent beasts that inhabit the waters surrounding Iceland, but it wasn’t until the 1990’s that whale watching became an attraction in Iceland. In 1991,  the first Iceland whale watching ship left port. In 1993, arguably one of the most famous Icelandic whales of all time – Free Willy – made his debut film appearance. This cemented the new trend for whale watching in Iceland, and it has grown ever since.

Often referred to as “Iceland in miniature”, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the one area in Iceland you simply cannot miss if you want to taste everything Iceland has to offer.With a volcano, a glacier, towering mountains, sandy beaches, and small fishing villages, this peninsula has plenty to offer. Read on to discover the area’s highlights and our top tips for travelling to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Hverfjall volcano is a very popular Icelandic attraction that goes by two names; Icelanders can’t seem to decide between Hverfjall or Hverfell. However, the more common moniker is Hverfjall. The almost perfect circular shape of Hverfjall is part of what makes it such a must-see volcano in Iceland. Oh – and the fact that you can walk the whole way around its circumference! You want to give it a go on your next Iceland trip if you are into volcanoes.

Despite being one of the smaller ice caps of Iceland, Eyjafjallajökull volcano is one of the most famous volcanoes in Iceland and the world. This is thanks to its most recent eruption in 2010 that resulted in the evacuation of 800 people, caused electrical storms and earthquakes and grounded flights across Europe. Fortunately, another nearest volcano, Katla, that shares its geology did not erupt this time around. Historically speaking, when Eyjafjallajökull erupts Katla often follows suit. Eyjafjallajökull is a stratovolcano that is completely covered by an ice cap that covers 100 square km. The volcano is 1651m tall and has a partially open crater of just under 4km in diameter with three main peaks. Eyjafjallajökull is found in Southern Iceland and is a great diversion for anyone driving the south shore road on their Iceland trip. The south of Iceland is easily accessibly via road.  Let's find out what we can do on and around this magnificent volcano.

Aptly named ‘The Gateway to Hell,’ the Hekla volcano in the south of Iceland is a deadly force with a shocking history of destruction. This reputation caused people in the middle ages to believe that Hekla or Hecla was the entrance to Hell. That however, hasn’t stopped brave travellers from exploring one of Iceland’s active volcanoes!

Katla volcano, the most powerful volcano in Iceland, packs a punch that has garnered a fearsome reputation. Due to patterns that have developed over time, it is now believed that whenever Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupts, Katla follows suit with a more powerful and destructive explosion, which is why it is thought to be a twin of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. The name ‘Katla’ is steeped in Icelandic folklore, where it is told that the volcano was named after a maid on a nearby farm that dabbled in witchcraft. This mystical link only adds to the reverence given to volcanos in Iceland, a land that has been shaped and formed by these beautiful forces of nature. Found in the south of Iceland, hidden under the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Katla’s eruptions cause massive floods and ash fall, resulting in major destruction. In 2010, Icelanders held their breath after the famous Eyjafjallajökull eruption, though luckily Katla stayed quiet. However, an eruption is now long overdue, so who knows how long the calm will last!

The Öræfajökull volcano on Iceland's south-east coast is a name you might have heard quite frequently in the media this last little while. That is because scientists predict that this volatile peak might erupt at any moment! Öræfajökull is one of Iceland’s many ice-capped volcanoes. As Iceland’s largest active volcano and Europe’s second largest volcano (second only to Mt Etna in Sicily), Öræfajökull is constantly kept under close surveillance. There are at least two known records of the Öræfajökull volcano erupting: an explosive eruption in 1362, which totally destroyed the nearby district formerly known as Litla-Hérað, followed by a smaller eruption in the late 1720s. In 2017, increased earthquake activity was noticed. Most recently, an ice-cauldron (also called a caldera) appears to have formed in Öræfajökull volcano’s main crater, and the smell of sulphur can be detected in the air nearby. While a potential eruption cannot easily be predicted (and may sound a bit frightening), there is no need to fear. Volcanoes often show increasing geothermal activity for years prior to an eruption. At the time of writing this article, a yellow warning has been issued for the volcano —more of a safety precaution than anything else as scientists are unsure of the Öræfajökull volcano’s eruption habits. All the same, tourists continue to flock to the area, particularly in the summer months. This fascinating volcano is incredibly impressive and well worth a visit during your trip to Iceland — particularly if you’re a bit of a geology geek! If a visit to Öræfajökull is on your bucket list, here is everything you need to know to make it totally worthwhile.

Is it a volcano? Is it a glacier? It’s both! Snæfellsjökull volcano is a glacier-capped volcano in Iceland and the highlight of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a stunning area in western Iceland. Standing at an impressive 1446 metres high, the Snæfellsjökull volcano in Iceland is one of the country’s most notable landmarks and can sometimes even be seen from Reykjavik.What are the top things to know before visiting Snæfellsjökull volcano? Read on to find out. 

There’s a reason Iceland is called ‘ice-land’. Glaciers of crystal blue ice blanket the country, slowly making their way over mountains and volcanoes as they finally crumble into a mirror-flat lagoon or the ocean. From afar, they are impressive bulks of indescribable dimensions. Up close, they define the meaning of ‘awe-inspiring’ as we humans try to grasp the sheer natural power of the ice. But the true beauty of glaciers can’t be appreciated without digging deeper. The natural ice caves carved out by these slow-moving giants are the crystalline hearts of the glaciers. To really get to grips with the beauty and power of a glacier, you need to take an Iceland ice cave tour on your next trip to Iceland.

The elusive ice caves in Iceland are natural wonders that strike awe in anyone who gets the chance to explore them. Hidden in the underbelly of the glaciers in Iceland, these caverns are created as the ice rivers shift and slink down from their mountainous heights each winter, only to be destroyed as they once again retreat each spring. Unlike the ancient volcanoes in Iceland upon which many glaciers sit, ice caves in Iceland have a short life-span. They can generally only be visited between November and March. Once they collapse in the relative heat of the spring, they are unlikely to ever reform in the same way. As a result, expert guides head out to explore the glaciers each winter to discover freshly formed caves of striking blue ice. Despite this, there are some places where you are more likely to find these wondrous ice creations returning every year. The most famous is the Vatnajokull ice caves. As the largest glacier in Iceland, the Vatnajokull glacier covers approximately 11% of Iceland’s total land area, creating a lot of room for ice caves to form. Home to the Vatnajokull glacier and its numerous outlet glaciers and glacier tongues, Vatnajokull National Park is the perfect place to visit if you hope to experience what it feels like to sit under a huge bulk of a glacier. Vatnajokull National Park is located in southeast Iceland and encompasses Skaftafell National Park in the southwest and Jökulsárgljúfur to the north. Getting there includes traveling along the famed south coast road of Iceland, making it a great opportunity to visit many must-see sights along the way.

The second biggest glacier in Iceland, after Vatnajokull, Langjokull is arguably the most popular glacier for tourists to visit. This is mainly due to how easily accessible it is from Reykjavik and the abundant activities available there! Langjokull sits happily within ‘The Golden Circle’ of Iceland’s main tourist attractions. This generally includes Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and Haukadalur, a geothermal area which contains the geysers Geysir and Strokkur, amongst other smaller attractions.How to get there Named after its large, oblong shape, ‘Langjökull’ literally means ‘long glacier’ in Icelandic. This incredible, natural formation can be found in the midwest highlands of Iceland. For those wanting to visit Langjokull from Reykjavik, there are two options. The first option is to book a tour that leaves directly from Reykjavik. This is a great option for travellers with little experience of driving in adverse conditions. The second option is to drive to Husafell waterfall (a worthy sightseeing stop in itself) and then join a tour that departs from there. The drive will take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Solheimajokull may technically be a glacier tongue from the larger Myrdalsjokull glacier, however, it is a popular destination in its own right and is worth a visit during your holiday to Iceland. It travels from the Myrdalsjokull glacier down to the pristine shores of South Iceland. Due to the geography of the area, Solheimajokull is a great way to witness how glaciers are shaped and formed, as well as the effects being wrought on these ice giants by global warming.

The fourth largest glacier in Iceland, Myrdalsjokull is a true embodiment of the land of fire and ice. Deep within Myrdalsjokull’s ice cap lies one of the largest active volcanoes in Iceland, the destructive Katla. Set along Iceland’s popular south coast, Mydalsjokull is one of its most easily accessible glaciers, jam packed with activities — a must-visit on your Iceland holiday.Getting to Myrdalsjokull depends on which part you will be visiting - glaciers are quite big after all! However, the two main routes include heading to either Seljalandsfoss waterfall or Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier of Myrdalsjokull. Both routes entail driving along Route 1 on the south coast of Iceland. Seljalandsfoss is located approximately 125 km along Route 1 from Reykjavik and Solheimajokull is a further 25 km away.

Not only is Vatnajökull glacier the biggest one in Iceland, it’s the largest in Europe! In fact, covering 8,100 square km, Vatnajökull covers more land than all the glaciers on Europe’s mainland combined! It should be no surprise then that a plethora of activities exist on this wondrous body of ice to keep you occupied for your entire time in Iceland.How To Get There This glacier is surrounded by a national park of the same name, Vatnajökull National Park. The easiest way to access it is via Skaftafell, which is also a part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park. From Reykjavik, follow route 1 along the south coast for approximately 320 km, until you see a sign for Skaftafell National Park, where you will make a left turn. The journey will take around 4 hours in favourable conditions.

Iceland’s most northern glacier, Drangajokull is located in the remote Westfjords of northern Iceland. Despite its isolated location, this special glacier is worth a visit during your trip to Iceland. Being the only glacier in Iceland whose altitude does not exceed 1000 m, Drangajokull is also one of the only glaciers in the country that hasn’t succumbed to receding in recent years.The Westfjords is a large peninsula in the northwest of the country. Though travel and communication there can be difficult, the mountainous region is known for its beauty and play on light. From the darkest depths of winter to 24 hours of sunlight in high summer, the length of a day takes on new boundaries in this remote part of the world. The Westfjords are home to both the midnight sun and the northern lights, creating a dreamworld for travellers to take in as best they can. While driving in the Westfjords has had a bad reputation in the past, road conditions have greatly improved in recent years. However, as always, safety precautions must be taken in bad weather. Driving from Reykjavik will mean covering approximately 450 km of terrain and will take a little over 5 hours even in favourable conditions.

One of the country’s greatest natural wonders, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, or Jökulsárlón is said to be Iceland’s crown jewel. It was formed in the 1930s as the Breiðamerkurjökull glacial tongue began to melt. In fact, the lagoon is constantly growing in size as the glacier melts due to global warming.Though not very wide, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is 250 meters deep, making it Iceland’s deepest lake. The lagoon’s crystal-clear surface is scattered with icebergs that are formed as more and more of the glacier breaks away, an unmissable sight! With so much to take in, we want to make sure you don’t miss a thing. That’s why we’ve put together this guide, so you can learn everything you need to know before visiting Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

The best time and season to see Northern Lights in Iceland is from late September to the beginning of April. One of the most popular destinations in Iceland to witness the Northern Lights is undoubtedly its capital city, Reykjavik. This city is believed to be the first official colony on Iceland back from when it was first settled, just before the turn of the first millennium.Reykjavik hasn’t looked back, and has continued to grow and be a beacon of numerous breathtaking tourist sights and rich national culture. Reykjavik boasts a great opportunity to witness the northern lights.

The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland could be compared, in popularity, to that of the Appalachian Trail on the east coast of The United States or the Pacific Coast Trail on the west coast, though not nearly as long. However, lengthy or not, Laugavegur is visited by thousands of hikers each year with all levels of experience. Some aim to complete the entire 49-mile trail while others want nothing more than to take in a few of the trails' breathtaking sights. At the end of the day, simply spending one minute on the trail would be a minute well spent. The rolling landscape is forever changing because of the geothermal activity below the surface of the trail. Hills move and crumble, landslides occur regularly, ice melts and creates small stream like paths into larger creeks and rivers and what was once a lush meadow is now a steaming hot spring. Whatever the reason for visiting Laugavegur, the experience is sure to be different from anything you have ever experienced.The best time to visit the trail is during the months of June through September because that is when the entire trails usually experiences its best weather. In the winter months, some of the trail may be closed off or dangerous to cross because of ice melts, snow, and sketchy weather.

As the second highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur waterfall is not for the faint of heart. Cascading 198 m down a rugged landscape, adventure seekers, nature lovers, and adrenaline junkies from all over the world have traveled to Iceland just to climb Glymur. In fact, this waterfall is not even visible from the main road, meaning a considerable hike is involved just to lay your eyes on it! While the view from the very top is surely stunning, the scenery on the journey is just as impressive (and is sure to keep you motivated all the way up!). Here is all you need to know about hiking Glymur waterfall.

A key highlight of Iceland’s southern coast, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, with its stunning cascading falls from a steep cliff, is perhaps one of the most well-known waterfalls in Iceland. Standing at an impressive 65 meters tall, Seljalandsfoss is fed from the waters of the glacier-topped Eyjafjallajokull volcano and completely captivates all those who make the trip to see it.No trip to the south of Iceland is complete without a visit to this jaw-dropping work of nature, particularly if you are already taking in the sites of the South Coast route. Seljalandsfoss along with Skogafoss is one of the two main highlights of the famous Golden Circle in Iceland. In this article we cover all the highlights of a visit to Seljalandsfoss, how to get there, and the best way to spend your time.  

There may be many well-known waterfalls in Iceland, but none are quite like Gullfoss waterfall. Literally translated to the “golden falls” from Icelandic, these falls tumble down the rugged landscape into a cloud of mist that makes them appear as if they are indeed golden and sparkling. Framed between tall canyon walls, the Gullfoss waterfall is truly iconic, cascading down 32 meters from the Hvítá river, created from the Langjökull glacier. In fact, Gullfoss can be considered two separate waterfalls as the water flows from two stages: a primary drop of 11 metres, followed by an impressive 21-metre drop. This jaw-dropping sight is one that absolutely cannot be missed on your visit to Iceland. To ensure you make the most of your day visit to the falls, we’ve put together this guide with all the must-know information.

Every country has its little hidden secrets, and Gljúfrabúi waterfall is one of Iceland’s finest. Gljúfrabúi (also known as Gljúfrabúifoss) is a 40-metre high waterfall on Iceland’s south coast, not far from the incredibly popular Seljalandsfoss. While it may not be quite as famous as its nearby friend, that certainly doesn’t mean it is any less impressive. Translated into English as “canyon dweller” or “dweller of the gorge”, Gljúfrabúi waterfall is a true beauty hidden away below steep cliffs. The waterfall cascades down into a little cave with light pouring in from above — a truly beautiful sight that is worth veering off the beaten path to see! Here is everything you need to know about Gljúfrabúi waterall, including how to get there and what absolutely shouldn’t be missed.

As the largest national park in Western Europe, Vatnajökull is made up of smaller parks such as Skaftafell in the south and Jökulsárgljúfur in the north. As a result, the terrain varies vastly. It’s namesake, Vatnajökull glacier, is the largest glacier in Europe to be found outside of the Arctic circle. As well as the glaciers immense bulk, Vatnajökull’s landscape encompasses active volcanoes, powerful glacial rivers, mountains, canyons, waterfalls, wetlands and lush woodland. Since it’s creation in 2008, Vatnajökull National Park has grown to cover almost 14,000km2. That equates to 14% of Iceland as a whole. So if you want to see the best of what a trip to Iceland has to offer, you want to see Vatnajökull National Park!Highlights  Vatnajökull glacier is the highlight of the Vatnajökull National Park. Covering 8% of Iceland, it’s hard to miss. Subglacial lakes and hidden active volcanoes add to the mystery. Hvannadalshnúkur is the highest point in Iceland. Hiking there is challenging, but the view from the peak is worth it. Skaftafell National Park, nestled within Vatnajökull, offers a lush landscape with a more temperate climate and stunning scenery. Dettifoss is Europe’s answer to the Grand Canyon. An immensely powerful waterfall that hurtles into a vast gorge, seeing Dettifoss is an awe inspiring experience that truly makes you feel your size. Ásbyrgi is a gigantic, horseshoe shaped canyon steeped in Norse mythology. Lowlights  Only lowlands are accessible year round. Including Jökulsárgljúfur, Skaftafell, Heinaberg, Hjallanes and Hoffell. Highlands are only accessible by 4x4 during the summer months and early autumn. Sudden changes in weather can become dangerous in remote areas. The park is still improving its road system. Though much progress has already been made.

What makes the Thingvellir National Park different than other national parks in Iceland? With a history dating back to the end of the first millennia, Thingvellir has a story that is as rich as its geography. Amid the shifting continental plates where North America and Europe collide, sits the home of the first parliament of the Icelandic people.  A church sits upon the site, dating back to the 19th century, but the faith that preceded it reaches forward across centuries. It is no wonder, that the Icelandic chieftains chose this remarkable place for the site of their annual conclave, for they would gather here with their people, coming by the thousands and staying for weeks or more, to settle grievances, and maintain the balance of power between their various clans.  Here, amidst the rugged terrain, and beside the beautiful waters, they made their laws, and kept their peace. Eventually, the seat of power for the Icelandic people would move from Thingvellir to Reykjavik, some 40 km away.

Although it is just 190 km up the coast from Reykjavik, when you are standing on the shores of Snaefellsjokull National Park, you will feel like you are a world away. Standing on the edge of the Londrangar basalt cliffs overlooking the ocean the sight you will see has not changed much since centuries gone by. Of the national parks in Iceland, Snæfellsjokull is the only national park that accesses the shore line of Snæfellsjökull, located in the western part of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. You can explore tidal pools and pebble beaches, a volcanic cave, or an ice tunnel burrowed into a glacier. There is a diversity of terrain that makes every hike an adventure into the exceptional — no wonder it is one of the most sought after destinations on an Iceland trip. If you are really lucky, you might even catch a sight of a killer whale breaching in the swell. 

Skaftafell National Park, one of Iceland's national parks, is truly a landscape forged from fire and ice over centuries with many volcanic eruptions, glaciers and rivers. Like much of Iceland’s beautifully unchanged scenery, the terrain of Skaftafell National Park continues to instill a sense of awe and wonderment in all who travel there. Now included in the southern part of Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell National Park has been enlarged twice since it was officially founded in 1967.The protected area of Skaftafell accounts for 4807 km2 of the total terrain of Vatnajökull National Park (13,600 km²). A mountainous landscape that is home to volcanoes, waterfalls, rivers, glaciers and woods, Skaftafell’s creation took place over thousands of years. The result is a stunningly wild sweep of Nordic vistas carved by eruptions and erosion. Highlights Skaftafell benefits from a pleasant climate. Visit in summer and experience the natural phenomenon of the midnight sun. Sightseeing flights are available from the small Skaftafell runway. Get a true bird’s eye view of the vast terrain. Get a new perspective on life by coming face-to-face with the awesome magnitude of a glacier.   Get up close and personal with the local wildlife including puffins and arctic foxes. Witness water cascading from a jet black basalt lava wall at Svartifoss waterfall. Lowlights  Tourism has doubled in the last few years. During peak seasons, Skaftafell will be crowded with thousands of visitors.  Skaftafell National Park receives little snow. However, rain, harsh wind and ice can make trails hazardous during winter. Winter is a popular time to visit Skaftafell as the landscape changes completely. However, fewer daylight hours also set a limit on the activity.