Top 12 Things to Do in Reykjavik

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.

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.

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 and Selfoss are two must-visit destinations in Iceland. Reykjavik, the capital city, offers a vibrant cultural scene, diverse architecture, and rich history, whereas Selfoss provides a tranquil escape into the countryside, where you can immerse yourself in natural beauty and marvel at geological marvels. Make the most of your Iceland tour by exploring both destinations, which aren’t far apart, with just 60 kilometers between them. Set out on an enchanting trip from Reykjavik to Selfoss, exploring the wonders of southern Iceland along the way. Begin your adventure by visiting Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik, Iceland's largest church, renowned for its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the city. Continue to iconic destinations such as the Blue Lagoon and Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre. Arriving in Selfoss, a picturesque town on the banks of the Ölfusá River, don't miss the Kerid Crater—a volcanic caldera with a vibrant blue lake. Also, add Eyjafjallajökull Strokkur to your itinerary while exploring Selfoss.

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.

There is little argument that The Blue Lagoon is the premier hot spring destination on an Iceland tour. With its blue waters, luxurious facilities, and world class service; it is a hard destination to beat for a day of rest and relaxation. But this wonderful getaway is not alone in “The Land of Fire and Ice.” Iceland’s abundant geothermal activity, combined with the ample supply of glacial ice, combine to make Iceland one of the top hot springs destinations in the world. As you work your way down the list (that has been set in no particular order), you will come across hot springs that are more rustic, remote, and adventurous, than the Blue Lagoon. Please below find the Top 10 Best Hot Springs in Iceland:

Tucked away in the North Atlantic Ocean, Iceland is a country of remarkable landscapes shaped by volcanic activities and glaciers over thousands of years. Its natural features are starkly diverse and otherworldly. Volcanoes, geothermal pools, glaciers, fjords, and waterfalls can all be covered on your Iceland trip, and within a short duration. In this article, we have compiled a list of the 10 best places to visit in Iceland—from the bustling streets of Reykjavík to the remote wilderness of the Westfjords—that you can follow during your trip to the Land of Fire and Ice.

A trip to Iceland would be incomplete without embarking on a sightseeing tour to Reykjavik and visiting Vik’s wild and untamed beauty. If you want to embark on an unforgettable adventure, the Ring Road that stretches from Reykjavik to Vik is the ultimate route to take. Nestled along the captivating South Coast of Iceland, this scenic route is brimming with captivating sites that showcase the best of Iceland’s natural wonders. Marvel at the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, behold the awe-inspiring Reynisdrangar sea stacks and explore the incredible black sand beach of Reynisfjara. Admire the surreal landscapes of the Eldhraun lava fields and explore Vatnajökull National Park, home to the mighty Vatnajökull glacier.

Iceland is fully open for travel during its summer, which extends from June to August. Whether you wish to hike to thundering waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, soak in hot springs such as the Blue Lagoon or Mývatn Nature Baths, or explore iconic glaciers like Vatnajökull and Langjökull, the moderate summer temperature and long daylight hours will surely make your Iceland trip more enjoyable. In this guide, we will break down a typical summer in this Nordic nation, covering everything from the weather to the things to do in Iceland, including both popular destinations like the Golden Circle and Reykjavík, as well as off-the-beaten-path locations.

Nestled in the Icelandic highlands, right on the edge of the black Laugahraun lava field, you will find Landmannalaugar. Well known for its natural geothermal hot springs (the name ‘Landmannalaugar’ translates to 'the people’s pools') and a stunning rugged landscape, Landmannalaugar is part of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and is most commonly visited by hikers as it is situated at the northern end of the famous Laugavegur hiking trail. Planning a visit to Landmannalaugar to take advantage of its spectacular hikes? Here’s all you need to know before you go!

Thorsmork (Þórsmörk) is one of the best hiking destinations in Iceland, known for its stunning landscapes comprising mountains, glaciers, forests, and ravines. You can easily take a trip to Thorsmork from Reykjavik by car or bus, although you can also take the scenic route by hiking between the two destinations. If you are traveling in a vehicle from Reykjavik to Thorsmork, you will encounter notable stops such as the majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the fascinating Stakkholtsgjá Canyon, and the picturesque town of Selfoss en route. At Thorsmork, or the Valley of Thor, you can take in the awe-inspiring beauty of this secluded mountain ridge whilst admiring the majestic Tindfjallajökull and the famous Eyjafjallajökull glaciers that it is tucked between. Read on to find out more about how to get to Thorsmork from Reykjavik on your Iceland trip.