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Things to Do in Iceland

Activities to Do in Iceland

The exhilarating things to do in Iceland will let you spend some memorable time in the ice-packed snow-white land of Iceland. Iceland is known to offer ultimate adventure to the wanderlust travellers with its varied landscapes and iconic natural phenomenon. While you can think of enjoying a dip in the natural hot pool to refresh your body and mind, you can take a helicopter tour to capture the jaw dropping views of the snow capped mountain ranges. You can spend time at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon which is adorned with large chunks of ice falling off from the surrounding Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier.

When thinking about some of the best things to do in Iceland at night, you can head out into any of the upmarket lively bars and restaurants in Reykjavik to chill out with your loved ones. Reykjavik promises all its visitors one of the best nightlife in Iceland that you will never ever forget. Iceland takes up a whole new charm in the winter season with freezing temperatures. You can still take part in some of the best things to do in Iceland winter and explore Iceland tour packages or plan a Europe trip to relish an out-of-the-world experience.

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Watch Northern Lights At Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

The breathtaking glacial lagoon of Jokulsarlon is one of the unique places to watch the Northern Lights in action. Lying to the southeast of Vatnajökull National Park, the ice boulders on the black sandy beach pick up and radiate the green and red glow of the Northern Lights, resulting in a photogenic kaleidoscopic effect.

The Westman Islands

Fondly dubbed as the Home Islands, the Westman Island is the largest and most populated island off the Icelandic coast. Home to stunning shores and a teeming population of Arctic baby puffins, these islands are one of the best places to visit in Iceland for those keen on exploring the natural beauty of the archipelago. The Westman is home to two active volcanoes, which are regarded as major tourist spots here. Tourists at the island can try their hand at Spranga, the rock climbing sport local to Iceland, or navigate the cyan waters around the coast in a kayaking tour.

Location: Vestmannaeyjar, Arctic sea

Best time to visit: Between April and August, when the baby puffin population here is most visible

Golden Circle Route

One of the most famous places to visit in Iceland, the Golden Circle Route is known to be housing some incredibly stunning sites. Lying east of Reykjavik, the Golden Circle encompasses three important locations - Geysir area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. In general, it takes around 4 to 5 hours to cover this photogenic route and you are rewarded with breathtaking attractions, including thundering waterfalls, quaint villages, charming geysers, impressive historic sites, Icelandic horse farms, Lutheran churches, and dramatic cliffs.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Set against the backdrop of icy mountains, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a goldmine when it comes to the natural wealth of Iceland. The conservation area was built to protect the indigenous flora and fauna of the islands, and is one of the best places to visit in Iceland for photographers and bird watchers alike. Arctic foxes and seals can be commonly spotted throughout the park, along with a number of birds. Several hiking trails snake their way through the Reserve’s rugged territory, inviting hiking enthusiasts to it throughout the year.

Location: Aðalstræti 10, Ísafjörður, Iceland

Best time to visit: June to July, when the weather is best for wildlife spotting and other outdoor sports

Blue Lagoon

One of the most beautiful wonders in the world, Blue Lagoon is the epitome of scenic beauty, pleasing ambiance, opulence, and indulgence. Its clear blue water is not only divine but is full of minerals that work magic for the skin. The scenery of azure water amidst the black lava fields and creeping grey moss is awe-strikingly beautiful and makes you fall in love with the surroundings.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón: Stunning glacial lagoon in southeast Iceland, filled with floating icebergs from the Vatnajökull glacier. Surreal beauty, boat tours available, seals often seen lounging on ice. Must-visit for Iceland's natural wonders.

Landmannalaugar

Its name literally translates to the ‘People’s Pool’, Landmannalaugar is one of the most uniquely beautiful tourist places in Iceland. Located within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, Landmannalaugar is a sweeping area of frozen lava formed during the volcanic eruption of 1477. The rocks at the lava field can be seen reflecting the sun’s rays in shades of yellow, green, pink and blue, offering an ethereal sight. A number of geothermal pools litter the rocks at varying heights, offering a therapeutic dip to tourists. The area is also home to some of the most aesthetic hiking trails in Iceland, riddled with waterfalls, gorges and caves.

Location:
Fjallabak Nature Reserve

Best time to visit:
Between July and September, when the roads to the reserve are easily accessible

Langjökull

Its name translating to ‘The Long Glacier’, the mighty Langjökull nestles on the Icelandic Highlands. One of the best places in Iceland for snowmobile safaris, Langjökull is home to some of the best high altitude hiking trails in the country. Near its highest peaks is a man made tunnel, offering a gorgeous drive tour into the interiors of the icy glacier. Home to several glacial lakes, Langjökull also forms a major part of The Golden Circle, which is Iceland’s most scenic tour route.

Location: Icelandic Highlands

Best time to visit: Between October to March, when the icy glacier appears most beautiful

Skaftafell

Nestled within the Vatnajokull National Park, Skaftafell is an ideal camping area for those looking to scale Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s most daunting peak. Covered in windswept grasses and gorgeous landscapes, Skaftafell is one of the most beautiful Iceland attractions. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the place is to spend a few days camping at the site here. There are several hiking trails meandering through the area as well, making it a popular destination for trekkers and hikers travelling to Iceland.

Location:
Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland

Best time to visit:
Between November and January, to enjoy winter sports here

Dettifoss Waterfall

Located within the Vatnajokull National Park, Dettifoss prides itself on its status as the second most powerful waterfall in Europe after the Rhine.

Djupalonssandur Beach

Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, is the Black Lava Pearl Beach of West Island, Djúpalónssandur. Known for its enthralling natural beauty and unique geological features, Djúpalónssandur is a part of Snæfellsjökull National Park and is often included in the hiking trail to reach the Snæfellsjökull glacier. 

 Kirkjufell Mountain

One of the most beautiful of Iceland attractions, the Kirkjufell Mountain nestles on the northern edge of the country’s Snæfellsnes peninsula. Known for its unique cylindrical shape, Kirkjufell is the country’s most photographed mountain. The climb to the top is fairly steep, but equally rewarding with its uninterrupted views of the surrounding glaciers and lakes. The unobstructed views to the sky offered by Kirkjufell also makes it best places in Iceland to watch the Northern lights from.

Location:
Snæfellsnes peninsula

Best time to visit:
Between May and August, when the Northern Lights are most frequent

Motorcycle Museum of Iceland

The Motorcycle Museum of Iceland is a captivating showcase of the country's motorcycling history, featuring a diverse collection of vintage and modern motorcycles. Located in Reykjavik, it offers visitors a unique journey through time, highlighting the cultural significance and evolution of motorcycles in the Icelandic context.

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Which are the best things to do in Iceland?

Enjoy a dip in natural hot pool: Located on the geothermal active zone, Iceland is home to a number of geothermal active zones, geysers, and natural hot springs. The natural pools are no less than heated luxury swimming pools as they offer refreshing bathing experiences. Tourists consider this as one of the top things to do in Iceland, making it a great choice for Iceland honeymoon packages. Some of the best places to enjoy these things to do in Iceland would be at Blue Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Mývatn Nature Baths, and Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths.

Location: Norðurljósavegur, Iceland

Reykjavik Helicopter tour: Reykjavik Helicopter Tour is one of the top things to do in Iceland as it offers you an enthralling experience of the jaw dropping view of the snow capped mountain, cascading waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes national park and much more. You will also be able to land on the mountain summit to admire the breathtakingly beautiful landscape of Icelands more closely.

Location: Hangar 6, Reykjavik Airport, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Spend time at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of the largest glacier lagoons that is dotted with large chunks of ice falling off from the surrounding Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier. This lagoon has been one of the most sought after places to visit in Iceland as it offers the tourists with a beautiful landscape to be photographed. Spotting a wide range of fishes is considered to be one of the top things to do in Iceland winter season.

Location: Vatnajökull National Park in southeastern Iceland

Spend a day at Einar Jonsson Museum: If you are a fan of art and craft then exploring the Einar Jonsson Museum is one of the best things to do in Iceland winter season. The museum was founded by the very first sculptor of Iceland Einar Jónsson. Located in Reykjavik, it is home to some of the spellbinding works such as Outlaws, Remorse, Dawn, and Natura Mater. Heading over to this place, you will be able to explore a number of art galleries to admire the marvellous works. It is one of the most sought things to do in Iceland for history buffs as well as they will get to witness some iconic creations.

Location: Hallgrímstorg 3, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Timings: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Watch opera and light show at Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall: Harpa Opera and Light show is one of the most sought after things to do in Iceland Winter season. The Reykjavik Concert hall is an architectural marvel in itself with its steel framework and geometric shaped colorful glass panels. During your visit, you can take guided tours through the concert hall and performance areas. If you are someone who gets intrigued by music, then you can choose to spend time watching shows performed by the Icelandic Opera. You can also capture the wonderful views of the main building illuminated by the fascinating and well coordinated light and sound show. The brilliant show of colors make it one of the top things to do in Iceland.

Location: Concert hall in Reykjavik, Iceland

Hike up to the glaciers: If you and your beloved partner are adventure enthusiasts, then glacier hiking and trekking can be considered as one of the most sought after thrilling things to do in Iceland. The glacier of Iceland can be considered as one of the hubs for adventure enthusiasts and trekkers. You will get to enjoy ice climbing, walking over frozen lakes, horse riding, and viewing the iconic arora from the glacier zones.

Explore the black sand beach in Reynisfjara: The black sand beach at Reynisfjara is one of the most sought after beach destinations in Iceland that is spread over 180 km in the South East of Reykjavik. The color of the beach is because of that presence of basalt rocks. Exploring the beach, you will come across a number of gigantic basaltic outcrops and rough Atlantic waves. You will get to witness spectacular vistas along with your beloved partner strolling across this unconventional beach.

Location: Mountain Reynisfjall near the village Vík í Mýrdal in southern Iceland

Visit Thingvellir National Park: Thingvellir National park was established in the year 1930 as the very first bioreserve park in Iceland. Resting on a rift valley, it is separated by two tectonic plates. The national park is most visited in the month of April and May to capture the serene views of the ravines, lakes, alpine vegetation, and Lava rock outcrops. The park is also listed among the UNESCO world Heritage sites. During your visit to this place, you can indulge in diving and snorkelling things to do in Iceland in the natural lake Silfra diving sport. You can also choose to stroll along the huge park to witness some exotic wildlife like Arctic Ducks, Arctic Foxes, Mink, and Golden Plovers.

Location: Thingvellir, 801 Selfoss, Iceland

Spend the evening at Imagine Peace Tower: Spending the evening hours at the Imagine Peace Tower happens to be one of the things to do in Iceland winter. The views of the light being projected from a white stone monument from 9th October - 8th December, 21st December - 31st December, 18th February and 20th March - 27th March are just magical. You will also come across the inscription ‘Imagine Peace’ in 24 different languages. Plan to come over to Iceland anytime in between October to March to capture the astounding illumination event during Reykjavik tours.

Location: Videy, Iceland

Visit Hallgrímskirkja church: Hallgrimskirkja Church is one of the iconic tourist destinations that you can visit in the course of your trip to Reykjavik City. Located at the Skolavordustigur Street, it is one of the age old lutheran Parish Church that is about 74.5 meters high and it is termed as one of the highest buildings in Iceland. Tourists as well as locals love to climb to its top to capture brilliant panoramic views of nature, Reykjavik City, and Snaefellsjokull glacier. The church is also home to a huge pipe organ, gigantic relics, stairway and statue of Leifur Eiriksson. You will truly be impressed by the old world charm of this place.

Location: Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

What are the things to do in Iceland at night?

1. Night clubbing: Nightlife at Iceland feels unworthy without attending the live concerts at nightclubs. here are several places in Iceland like Paloma and Húrra which have the most popular things to do in Iceland at night that would unleash your madness ultimately making you fall in love with the staggering nightlife of Iceland.

2. Enjoy the night outs at Nautholsvik Beach: Walking along the coastals of Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach at night doesn't only please your soul but also unleash your inner peace. The cold breeze sailing gently from the water surface would drive you to take a dip into the sea. Swimming in the beach at night is one of the audacious adventure things to do in Iceland at night.

3. Watch the magnificent Northern lights: Iceland is famous for its breathtaking Northern lights from every corner of the country. A Reykjavik honeymoon trip would be incomplete without experiencing the Northern lights, which have been the most wondrous thing to be experienced while vacating anywhere in Iceland. This spectacular phenomenal beauty attracts millions of tourists at its peak times as one can observe Northern lights from any part of Iceland, henceforth making it one of the magnificent wonders of the World as well as one of the most sought-after things to do in Iceland at night.

4. Admire the city lights: The most beautiful cityscape of Iceland can only be experienced at night. You can stroll around the marketplace and other interesting spots of historical as well as cultural interests. You can also hop into the night clubs or pubs to experience the nightlife in an affable way.

What are the adventure things to do in Iceland?

1. Snowmobiling with your partner in the glaciers: Snowmobiling across the snowy glaciers with your partner is the most breathtaking experience to witness while vacationing with your beloved in Iceland. It is easily accessible and you'd get a chance to endure the marvelous sites and remarkable landscapes of snow covered mountains and hills while rambling around in the glaciers. It is worth seeking experience while travelling to Iceland.

2. Dog Sledding in Iceland: Sitting behind a dog and strolling around the icy glacials with your better half, isn't it romantic? Iceland is famous for its dog sledding which prevails the entire year and comes in huge demand during summertimes. It is fun by sitting behind the big furry and fluffy arctic dogs whose strength never drains out even if carrying the people an entire day and for long hours. You'd enjoy the majestic views of the snow mountains lying in the countryside while sledding around the glaciers.

3. Romantic horse riding: Boarding across the stunning highlands by sitting behind a horse with your beloved is not only amazing but also a romantic adventure to be sought at Iceland. Grab this beautiful and lovely opportunity to hop around riding a horse which is more fun when riding across the spectacular countryside having a remarkable landscape which is eye-catching and worth capturing in a photograph. Horse riding being the most famous adventurous activity in Iceland, you'd get a chance to learn some innovative skills and techniques while learning this adventure.

4. Hiking at the ice covered mountains: Iceland has magnificent snow covered mountains which would offer you to hike onto some romantic as well as adventuresome trails. You'd experience the breathtaking views of the hilly landscapes and the exotic snow covered mountains and this would definitely enchant your partner with it's natural beauty.

Which are the best places to see northern lights in Iceland?

1. Asbyrgi Canyon: The great Canyon of Asbyrgi has a magnificent ocean bay. This heavenly formed place enveloping with huge cliffs, is the best place to seek the aesthetic Northern lights. The canyon is covered with glaciers and some subtropical dense forests with a spectacular landscape of wild features which is another majestic feature of Asbyrgi canyon.

2. Jökulsárlón: Jökulsárlón is one of the famous attractions of Iceland where you can seek northern lights more closely. It is a beautiful glacial lagoon of Iceland and a bold attraction having the most beautiful and stunning landscapes from where you can observe the Northern lights with your bare eyes. You can spot the lucent , crystalline and massive ice rocks on the black sandy beach that helps in the formation of northern lights. This magnificent view of the place makes it the most photographic spot to be known.

3. Seljavallalaug: Who'd not love watching the northern lights sitting and relaxing in the hot spring in a coolest place? Seljavallalaug has it all. It is one of the oldest pools of Iceland that offers you the best experience of sitting in the hot swimming pools and impressing everyone with its 24-hrs free service. It is regarded as the best place to watch Northern lights in a snuggy zone.

4. Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Being famous for its picturesque landscape, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a magnificent landmark housing the active volcanoes erupting in a continuous manner. Surrounded by beautiful beaches, you can ride across the serene shoreline. This Peninsula looks more beautiful often in the evenings and you can actually enjoy observing the Northern lights in this landmark for it's peacefulness and lonesome atmosphere.

Which are the best beaches to visit in Iceland?

1. The Solheimasandur Beach: The Solheimasandur Beach of Iceland is a stunning landmark to visit. You'd spot a destroyed and completely crashed plane lying along the shoreline which actually drives everyone's attraction. Do hike through the rocky beach to get some aesthetic experience all along.

2. Diamond Beach: The Diamond Beach is one of the most visited beaches in Iceland. Being popular for its magnificent glacier lagoons as well as glorious diamond shaped huge ice blocks, it has its own name as Diamond beach. It comprises some of the exotic glacial lagoons like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Breiðamerkurjökull glacier where you'd spot beautiful seals resting on the block of ice glaciers amidst the beach or shoreline.

3. Nautholsvik Beach: Nautholsvik beach is one of the most visited beaches of Iceland having huge crowds of tourists. It has an amazing thermal feature which makes its water a bit warm and appropriate to swim. There's a service of public amenities for the people who come up with their families for vacationing at the beach hence making this beach a top rated one.

4. Stokksnes Beach: One of the most magnificent beaches with incredible features, Stokksnes beach has a lot to offer. This black sand beach has a wide range of remarkable mountain cliffs which touch the infinity sea giving a breathtaking view. It gives you the most precious chance to immerse yourself into the delightful nature of the pretty landscapes and enjoy the aesthetic Northern lights, resting under the vast skies.

Which are the famous waterfalls in Iceland?

1. Oxararfoss: One of the stunning waterfalls of having not only a great height but also the most widespread and extremely incredible features, Oxararfoss plays an important role in the factual history of Iceland. Nestled within the dense Thingvellir National Park, it is one of the magnificent landmarks having spectacular landscapes. You can experience it's audacious beauty by hiking into the small trails leading to the view point where you can witness the whole waterfall with your bare eyes.

2. Gullfoss: Gullfoss is one of the most popular and best waterfalls of Iceland hence it is called the Golden Waterfall of that place. It is a long stretched waterfall having a remarkable existence. Visiting this place would not only aze you but also give you all sorts of adventure activities. You can hike up to a top point from wherever you can view the aesthetic beauty of the whole waterfall and the greeneries enveloping it. Believe me or not it is an absolute majesty to witness while vacating in Iceland.

3. Mogafoss: Within the great Fjadrargljufur canyons of Iceland, there's hidden the most magnificent waterfall, Skogafoss. Mogafoss looks absolutely stunning nestled between the great heighten canyons . People often visit the canyons and get fetched with the beauty of this waterfall. One would get astonished not only by the extravaganza of the canyons but also by the clashing sound of the Mogafoss waterfall falling straight into the cavernous hollow.

4. Seljalandsfoss: Seljalandsfoss is one of the most visited cascading waterfalls of Iceland. It is absolutely of great heights as compared to other waterfalls and has bold roads where you can view the breathtaking sceneries while driving through them. You can experience the whole Waterfall from all it's sides by hijacking through it's deep rock depressions. It looks fabulous during the sunset and has been famed as the most photographed waterfall where you can also experience a marvelous adventure by hiking into its rock formations.

How can I reach Iceland?

1. By Flight: The most important airport of Iceland is Keflavik Airport which is located just about 30 km from the capital city of Reykjavik. The airport has got flights from 14 major European destinations on a regular basis. Landing at this airport will be the best ever way to reach Iceland.

2. By Water: The only way to reach Iceland by water would be by taking a ferry ride from Hirtshals in Denmark to Seyðisfjörður in Iceland via the Faroe Island through Smyril Line. It will take about 2 nights to complete the journey.

What is the best time to visit Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland would be during the month of February, March, September, and October. Heading over to Iceland in these months, you will be able to capture the scenic views of the northern lights as well as enjoy the midnight sun. The warmer temperatures of Iceland in this time of the year makes it accessible for tourists from various parts of the country.

What is Iceland famous for?

Iceland is one of the renowned places on earth for being the Land of Fire and Ice. It is home to a large number of volcanoes, glaciers, and cascading waterfalls. All these natural wonders will offer you a wonderful vacationing experience in Iceland. Iceland is also very much popular for its rich cultural history, folklore, mythology and much more.

Is it safe to go to Iceland?

Yes, it is very much safe to visit Iceland as it is one of the safest countries in the whole world with a very low rate of crime and lower risk to life. You will surely be able to have a great time in this place during your visit. You will at all times be assisted by expert tour guides so that there is no need of worrying about your safety.

Which is the off season in Iceland?

The off season in Iceland is the winter season in which the temperature drops below zero degree celsius. You will have shorter days and visibility is just about four to five hours. Most of the places of Iceland become totally inaccessible due to bad condition of roads and poor visibility. It is definitely not a good time to plan a trip to this place.

How many days are enough in Iceland?

You would need to spend at least 7 - 10 days in Iceland to cover the most important places of tourist interest as well as indulge in a wide range of activities like skiing and northern light watching. During your visit to Iceland, you can visit Harpa Concert Hall, Sun Voyager Sculpture, Shopping streets of Laugavegur and Skolavordustigur, museums of Reykjavik, Golden Circle, South Coast, Jokulsarlon, and Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls.

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