For decades, travellers have been drawn to the Land of Fire and Ice, amazed by its landscapes and natural wonders. Venture here to explore ancient lava fields, sparkling glaciers, and cascading waterfalls shaped by ancient forces over centuries.
If you’re planning a trip to this otherworldly country and want to know where the best places to visit in Iceland are, look no further. In this guide, we’ve compiled Iceland’s legendary sights and some hidden gems. Plus, we’ve included how much time you should spend at each spot to help you make the most of your trip.
- Discover top attractions first-hand on a holiday in Iceland
1. Reykjavík
Recommended time: 1–2 days
While most Icelandic trips start in Reykjavík, this is not just a whistle-stop city. Starting or ending your tour in the capital is a great way to understand the country and its culture.
Wander through its pedestrian streets to discover colourful murals, cosy cafés and trendy food halls. Beyond this, you’ll also find famed landmarks, museums and cultural attractions waiting to be explored.
Marvel at Hallgrímskirkja
Recommended time: 30 minutes
Start by visiting Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavík’s celebrated church, whose architecture was inspired by Iceland’s volcanic landscapes. Standing at 73 metres (239 feet) tall, this is the largest church in the country. You can even take an elevator up the tower to get a sweeping view of the city below.
In front, you’ll find the statue of Leif Eriksson, the legendary explorer who was thought to be the first European to land in North America around the year 1000.
See a show at Harpa Concert Hall
Recommended time: 2 hours
The Harpa Concert Hall is another architectural landmark of the city. It also serves as a cultural touchstone thanks to the numerous musical festivals and shows it puts on.
No matter what time of year you visit Reykjavík, you can be treated to operatic Viking sagas, symphony orchestras, jazz festivals, and contemporary bands.
Visit the Perlan Museum
Recommended time: 1–2 hours
Perlan is an interactive museum that showcases several nature-themed exhibits and other attractions. Explore each one to learn about Iceland’s landscapes, shaped by fire and ice, from one location.
Because Perlan sits atop Öskjuhlíð Hill, you’ll get 360-degree views over Reykjavík while you’re here. This is an excellent way to kick off a tour of Iceland’s countryside.
For a more active experience, you can also walk up the hill to take in the sights. The walk takes about 1 hour and suits all ages and fitness levels.
- Spend time in Reykjavík and visit top attractions on a multi-day tour of Iceland
- Related: Top things to do in Reykjavík
2. Blue Lagoon
Recommended time: 2–3 hours
With treatments and dining: 3–4 hours
On the Reykjanes peninsula, in southwest Iceland, you’ll find the iconic Blue Lagoon. Gracing Instagram posts and promotional ads, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most renowned attractions. And we promise you the attention is well-deserved.
Soak in mineral-rich waters
The lagoon's milky water looks ethereal, set against a dark lava field backdrop. With this dramatic scenery, you’re sure to capture some unforgettable photos.
This spa’s hot spring is fed by the nearby geothermal plant. The water sits comfortably around 39°C (102°F), so you can enjoy a relaxing soak year-round. For an extra pampering experience, stop by the mask bar, where you can try several treatments, including the signature silica mud mask.
If you’re visiting Iceland with kids, the Blue Lagoon is a family-friendly destination where children aged 2–13 can enjoy free admission. Plus, its convenient location near the airport and Reykjavík makes it the ideal place to begin or end your Iceland travels.
3. Golden Circle
Recommended time: 6–8 hours (full circle)
Whether you take the wheel on a self-drive trip or join a guided group tour, the Golden Circle should be on your itinerary. In this region, you’ll find Iceland’s historical heart and some of its most famous natural sites, including impressive waterfalls, geysers, and hot springs.
Be inspired at Þingvellir National Park
Recommended time: 1–2 hours
Þingvellir is a major heritage attraction, in part because of its geographical significance. It sits at the junction of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. During your visit, you can follow the easy hiking trails along the rift valley or snorkel in the crystal-clear water of Silfra, a fissure between the plates.
This national park is also a landmark because of its importance in Icelandic history. It is here that in the year 930, over 30 ruling chiefs of Iceland joined to create a representative parliament known as Alþing. When you walk through this dramatic landscape, you can still see the foundations of that site today.
Heat things up at Geysir and Strokkur
Recommended time: 30–45 minutes
Iceland is also famous for its geothermal energy and hot springs. The most renowned hot spring is the giant Geysir. While it’s been dormant for years, this once mighty geyser could shoot water as high as 70 metres (230 feet) into the air.
Nearby, you’ll find the much more reliable Strokkur. It erupts every 5–10 minutes and can reach heights up to 40 metres (130 feet).
Walk on the edge at Gullfoss
Recommended time: 30–45 minutes
Gullfoss means “Golden Falls”, and you’ll quickly understand why when you see this powerful waterfall in the sunshine. Its two-tiered cascade is fed by meltwater from the Langjökull glacier flowing into the Hvítá river.
Follow the footpath from the car park to a viewing platform, where you can see Gullfoss in all its glory. It’s a spectacular way to be introduced to Iceland’s many waterfalls.
- See these natural wonders on a Golden Circle self-drive tour
- Related: Driving Iceland’s Golden Circle
4. Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach
Recommended time: 1–2 hours
What would a trip to Iceland be without seeing a little ice? The magical Jökulsárlón is a glacier lagoon in South Iceland filled with electric blue and glittering white icebergs.
Lose yourself in Jökulsárlón’s beauty
Recommended time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
With amphibian boat tour: 1.5–2 hours
Walk along the shores of the lagoon and watch the icebergs gently drift across the water and out to sea. If you want to stretch your legs after a long drive, you can follow several short walking trails nearby.
While the view from the shore is mesmerising, consider a boat trip on the lagoon itself. A guided boat tour lets you get close to the ancient ice floes
I highly recommend exploring Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon by doing a boat tour on the lagoon itself. The view from the shore is amazing, overseeing the lagoon and the glacier, but the experience of going in between the icebergs and sailing around the magical lagoon is otherworldly.
- Helga, Iceland-based Project Manager
Stroll the glittering shores of Diamond Beach
Recommended time: 30 minutes
Some icebergs wash up to decorate the black sands of Fellsfjara, now famously known as Diamond Beach. You’ll find it right across the road from the lagoon.
Spend time taking Instagram-worthy shots with the icebergs scattered across the sand like diamonds. For photographers, families, and romantics, this is one of the best places to go in Iceland.
5. Seljalandsfoss and south coast waterfalls
Recommended time: 3–5 hours
While touring Iceland, you’ll quickly discover why you need to see so many waterfalls – each is different and magnetic in its own way. You’ll find some of Iceland’s top waterfalls on the south coast.
Feel the spray of Seljalandsfoss
Recommended time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
You’ll definitely want to stop by Seljalandsfoss, one of the most visited waterfalls in the country. This waterfall sits on the Seljalandsá river, which flows all the way down from the infamous glacier-topped Eyjafjallajökull volcano.
Its defining trait is the cliff shape that allows you to walk behind the veil of water. Follow the footpath at the base of the falls, but be careful as it can be slippery.
A short walk from here, you’ll also find Gljúfrabúi, another breathtaking waterfall hidden inside a narrow canyon. It’s worth going out of your way to see this hidden gem and capture some striking photos.
Follow the Waterfall Way at Skógafoss
Recommended time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
With Waterfall Way hike: A few hours
Half an hour’s drive from Seljalandsfoss is Skógafoss, an impressive 60-metre-high waterfall. If you’re visiting on a sunny day, you could see rainbows in the spray – a truly magical sight!
According to legend, the first Viking settler in the area hid a treasure in the cave behind the cascade.
Take in the views from below, or climb the stairway to the viewing platform. Once you’re at the top, you can follow the Waterfall Way, an 8-kilometre (5-mile) trail that follows the Skógá river upstream.
The path is a gentle incline, and since it's a round trip, you can go as far as you’d like before turning back.
- Check out these South Iceland tours
- Related: Your complete guide to the south coast of Iceland
6. Lake Mývatn
Recommended time: 3–6 hours
In the north, uncover otherworldly Lake Mývatn, Iceland’s fourth-largest lake, surrounded by active volcanoes. Beyond being a filming location for Game of Thrones and several blockbuster movies, this region is rich in diverse flora and fauna, making it a bird watcher’s paradise.
You can explore Lake Mývatn on a journey around the Diamond Circle, a driving route that takes you to some of the best attractions in Iceland’s north.
Soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths
Recommended time: 1.5–2.5 hours
If you’ve been on the road for a few days and fancy relaxing in warm geothermal waters, make sure to stop at the Mývatn Nature Baths.
Situated right by the Ring Road, these luxurious hot springs are considered the north’s answer to the Blue Lagoon spa. Unwind in mineral-rich blue water as you soak up the volcanic views.
The on-site facilities include a swim-up bar, steam baths, and Café Kvika, where you can enjoy a light lunch or dinner.
Be impressed by Krafla and Víti Maar
Recommended time: 1–2 hours
You’ve seen ice, and now it’s time for fire! Near Lake Mývatn, pass by Krafla, a caldera stretching for 10 kilometres (7 miles).
It’s a collapsed volcanic area with 29 eruptions in recorded history. The volcanic activity has formed and reformed this land – its moon-like landscape is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. It’s still active today, and you’ll find bubbling mud pools, fuming lava fields, and hot springs here.
The region is also home to the Víti explosion crater. Víti Maar, which means “Crater of Hell”, is now filled with a lake of a striking opaque teal colour.
Discover the Dimmuborgir lava formations
Recommended time: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours
The otherworldly Dimmuborgir, or “Dark Cities”, is a vast lava field on the eastern shore of Lake Mývatn. It’s filled with towering lava pillars, caves, and arches formed 2300 years ago after a crater eruption.
You can explore them at your own pace by following one of the colour-coded walking trails marked on the map by the entrance. Some take only 10–30 minutes to complete, while others are more demanding, taking a few hours.
- Experience North Iceland your way on a privately guided tour
7. Akureyri
Recommended time: 1 day
If adding excursions: 1.5–2 days
This charming northern hub is Iceland’s second-largest city. Sitting at the base of Eyjafjörður fjord, this “Capital of the North” is rich in things to see and do.
Explore the city area or go hiking
Recommended time: 2–4 hours
Wander the streets and marvel at its striking Art Deco church, visit Akureyri Botanical Gardens, or walk the main street of Hafnarstræti. You’ll stumble across a cluster of restaurants, shops, and cosy cafés.
If you’re in the mood for something more active, consider hiking up Mount Súlur to take in panoramic views of the surrounding area. It’s a more challenging hike, but you can choose to do only a portion of the trail if you’re looking for a lighter adventure.
Go whale watching
Recommended time: 2–3 hours
One of the highlights of visiting North Iceland is discovering its wildlife. This region is known as
the best place to go whale watching – especially if you want to take a peek at some humpback whales.
Whale-watching boat tours run directly from Akureyri Harbour, or you can begin your tour in the nearby town of Húsavík, known as Europe’s whale-watching capital.
Another animal you’ll find in abundance here is the Icelandic horse. Explore the dramatic landscapes near Akureyri atop these sweet and sturdy creatures on a horse riding tour.
Get festive at Jólahúsið (the Christmas Garden)
Recommended time: 30–45 minutes
Located 10 minutes outside Akureyri, this charming red house keeps the Christmas spirit alive all year round. Jólahúsið features a fairytale tower with the world’s largest Christmas calendar, a play area for kids, and beautiful gardens.
Shop for festive souvenirs, sample local treats, and discover Icelandic holiday traditions, like the 13 Yule Lads.
Icelanders love stopping by the Christmas House – it’s the perfect place to visit in any season. There you can browse their decorations and enjoy their famous taffy.
- Helga, Iceland-based Project Manager
8. Vík
Recommended time: Half day –1 day
On the south coast lies the village of Vík í Mýrdal, nestled beside seaside cliffs, looking out to the mighty Atlantic Ocean. This small community sits right to the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and offers you a real slice of Icelandic maritime life.
If you’re a wildlife lover, you’re in for a treat. In the summertime, you can spot Arctic tern and puffin colonies in this area.
See coastal landmarks like Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey
Recommended time: 1–1.5 hours
One of the reasons Vík has become such a popular stopping point is Reynisfjara, one of Iceland’s most famous black sand beaches.
As you stroll the volcanic shores, you’ll spot 3 towering volcanic rock pillars emerging from the ocean. These are the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and according to legend, they’re petrified trolls that were frozen in time by the sun.
Another must-see attraction nearby is Dyrhólaey, a peninsula that ends in a leaping black arch of lava.
Go hunting for the northern lights
Recommended time: 1–3 hours
With its small population and minimal light pollution, Vík is an excellent spot to try and catch a glimpse of the northern lights. The best time to see the aurora borealis is during the winter months. However, it’s worth remembering that sightings cannot be guaranteed because it’s a natural phenomenon.
- Hunt for the aurora on an Iceland northern lights tour
- Related: The best time and places to see the northern lights in Iceland
9. Snæfellsnes
Plan for: 8–10 hours (full day tour)
Venture to West Iceland, and you’ll see why this off-the-beaten-path region is worth the detour. Known for its varied landscapes, the Snæfellsnes peninsula is often called “Iceland in miniature.” This area will show you Iceland’s diverse nature, including lava fields, waterfalls, hot springs, black sand beaches, and volcanoes.
You’ll also find charming fishing villages nestled among these attractions. In the historic town of Arnarstapi, you can take a scenic coastal walk along dramatic cliffs to see nesting seabird colonies.
So many visitors don’t take the time to visit this part of Iceland, yet it is truly stunning and unique.
– Markó, Iceland-based Travel Consultant
Marvel at the glacier-topped peak of Snæfellsjökull
Make sure to visit Snaefellsjökull National Park, Iceland’s oldest national park on the western tip of the peninsula. It was named after the 1,446-metre-tall (4,744-foot) Snæfellsjökull stratovolcano and its dazzling glacier that dominates the landscape.
The scenery is so captivating that it was featured in Jules Verne’s 1854 novel Journey to The Center of The Earth.
Other top attractions on the peninsula are the pyramid-shaped Kirkjufell mountain, which starred in Game of Thrones, and Rauðfeldsgjá, a dramatic gorge popular with hikers.
- Venture off-the-beaten-track on a West Iceland tour
- Related: Things to do on the Snæfellsnes peninsula
10. Vatnajökull National Park
Recommended time: A few days
From Snaefellsjökull in the west, we turn to Vatnajökull in the south, one of Europe’s largest national parks.
Witness Iceland’s largest glacier
If you come to this glorious nature reserve, you should make time for the Vatnajökull glacier. This icy giant dominates the park and has been carving its way through the highlands for thousands of years.
It’s also Europe’s largest glacier, covering over 8% of Iceland’s landmass, while the park spans over 14%!
Immerse yourself in nature
Beyond its towering glaciers, Vatnajökull National Park is home to some of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights. In the northeast, witness Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, as it thunders into the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.
Just 30 minutes away, you’ll find the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon, a stunning natural formation shrouded in Norse mythology. And don’t miss Skaftafell nature reserve, a hiker’s paradise with lush landscapes, glacial tongues, and the striking Svartifoss waterfall framed by black basalt columns.
- Check out these active tours of Iceland
11. The central highlands
Recommended time: 1–3 days
If you’re searching for Iceland’s best sites to see off the beaten path, venture to the wild and rugged highlands. Reaching these untamed areas requires a 4x4 vehicle, as you’ll navigate unpaved mountain routes known as “F-roads.” Because of Iceland’s harsh winter weather, most of the highlands are only open in summer.
Hike the trails of Landmannalaugar or Þórsmörk
Recommended time: 2–3 hours (shorter day hikes)
Longer hikes: 3–4 days
Landmannalaugar is a dreamland if you’re a hiking enthusiast. It has colourful rhyolite mountains, vast lava fields, and endless hiking trails.
Several scenic hiking routes, like the famous Laugavegur trail, lead you through spellbinding scenery. Some of the most iconic sights are Bláhnjúkur, the striking "Blue Peak," and Mount Brennisteinsalda, often called the "Sulphur Wave" for its brilliant yellow tones.
After your hike, don’t miss the chance to relax your muscles in one of the area’s natural springs.
Another well-known hiking region in the highlands is Þórsmörk, a valley between 3 glaciers. This secluded nature reserve is known for its lush birch forests, hot springs, and rocky gorges. It’s also where you can begin or end the Laugavegur trail.
The hike through Þórsmörk’s rugged beauty is worth the effort for those willing to explore off the beaten path.
- Hanna, Iceland-based Travel Consultant
Go off-grid at Kerlingarfjöll
Recommended time: 1–2 days
Much like Landmannalaugar, the volcanic Kerlingarfjöll mountain range is home to vibrant rhyolite peaks, scenic hiking trails, and steamy hot springs.
At its heart, you’ll find Hveradalir, Iceland’s third-largest geothermal area. Its name translates to
"Valley of Hot Springs," and that’s exactly what you’ll see here, along with bubbling mud pools, fumaroles and geysers.
Unlike most regions in the highlands, you can visit Kerlingarfjöll in winter. Because the terrain is so wild, you’ll need to do it on a guided tour.
One of the best ways to experience this area is by staying at the Highland Base, a dreamy hotel in the Ásgarður valley at the edge of Kerlingarfjöll. From here, you can go on guided hikes to witness the steaming rhyolite peaks blanketed in snow. Afterwards, recharge in the Highland Baths, the hotel’s geothermal pools.
- Venture into the Icelandic wilderness on these 4x4 & highland tours
- Related: Your guide to Iceland’s highlands
12. The Westfjords
Recommended time: At least 3 days
Another stop on the road less travelled is the Westfjords, one of Iceland’s most remote and unspoiled regions. It’s also the oldest part of the island. While the rest of the country is estimated to be 15 million years old, the Westfjords date back 24 million years!
Venture here to enjoy the untouched wilderness and get up close to Iceland’s wildlife, including puffins and Arctic foxes.
Spot puffins at Látrabjarg
Recommended time: 1–2 hours
The Látrabjarg cliff is Iceland’s westernmost point. It’s also one the biggest seacliffs in Europe, standing 14 kilometres (8.5 miles) long and up to 441 metres (1,450 feet) high.
The cliff comes alive in summer with countless birds, including puffins, gannets, razorbills, and guillemots. In fact, nearly a million puffins make their nests in tiny burrows scattered along the clifftop.
If you visit Látrabjarg, be careful when walking along the edge of the cliffs, as there are no fences or safety rails.
Marvel at the multi-layered Dynjandi
Recommended time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Stand before Dynjandi waterfall, and you’ll see why it’s called “The Jewel of the Westfjords”. The main drop is an impressive 100 metres (328 feet) high, with stacked waterfalls widening towards the bottom.
Another striking thing you’ll notice about Dynjandi is its mighty roar, which echoes through the valley. It’s no wonder its name translates to “thundering.”
To reach it, take a 15-minute walk from the car park following a scenic trail. Along the way, you’ll pass several smaller waterfalls, including Hundafoss and Bæjarfoss.
Connect to Icelandic culture in Ísafjörður
Recommended time: 2–4 hours
Ísafjörður, the largest settlement in the Westfjords, has several cultural draws. In the Neðstikaupstaður district, you can see some of Iceland’s oldest houses. While you’re here, stop by the Westfjords Heritage Museum to learn about the area’s maritime history.
Ísafjörður is also the gateway to the uninhabited Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, home to Arctic foxes, dramatic fjords and rugged coastal cliffs. In summer, you can take a boat trip from the town to check out this unspoiled area.
- Discover the Westfjords on a summer tour in Iceland
- Related: Things to do off the beaten path in Iceland
13. The Eastfjords
Recommended time: 1–2 days
East Iceland is a quiet, peaceful area with deep blue fjords and quaint fishing villages. Take your time exploring its hidden gems and embrace the slower pace of Icelandic life.
Admire magnetic Hengifoss
Recommended time: 2–3 hours
One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, Hengifoss plunges 128 metres (420 feet) down a dramatic cliffside streaked with red clay and black basalt layers.
You can reach it via a scenic hike that takes around 1 hour each way. Along the trail, you’ll pass Litlanesfoss, a smaller but equally stunning waterfall framed by towering basalt columns.
Visit the colourful town of Seyðisfjörður
Recommended time: 1–2 hours
Nestled among mountains and a scenic fjord, Seyðisfjörður is one of Iceland’s most picturesque towns. One of its most recognisable landmarks is Seyðisfjarðarkirkja (the “Blue Church”), a colourful building at the end of a rainbow-painted road.
Seyðisfjörður has earned a reputation as Iceland’s artistic hub, attracting a vibrant community of creatives. If you visit in July, you can take part in LungA, an annual festival celebrating music, visual arts and performance.
Check out Petra’s mineral collection
Recommended time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
As you drive along the fjord-studded coast, stop by Petra’s Mineral Collection in the village of Stöðvarfjörður. This impressive private collection of gemstones and minerals was built over 70 years by resident Petra Sveinsdóttir.
Admire thousands of semi-precious stones, plus a great collection of plants.
- Get inspired with these East Iceland tours
Explore the best attractions in Iceland with Nordic Visitor
When you visit Iceland, add some (or all!) of these breathtaking attractions to your itinerary. Plan your trip with Nordic Visitor, and we’ll take care of all the logistics so you can relax and enjoy the adventure.
Consider a self-drive tour if you want to take the wheel and go at your own pace. Or join a guided small group tour to get insights from a local guide and meet like-minded travellers.
Alternatively, opt for a multi-day tour. You’ll be based in Reykjavík or Akureyri and explore nearby attractions each day on guided excursions.
However you’d like to explore, our travel consultants will organise your local transport, accommodation, and activities. They’ll also give you personal recommendations on the best places to go in Iceland.
Get in touch with us, and our Reykjavík-based travel experts will organise your unforgettable Iceland adventure.
