Top 22 Must-Experience Activities in Iceland

Beautiful is the best word to describe Iceland. This stunning country boasts magnificent waterfalls, national parks, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. Even its active volcanoes are breathtakingly beautiful, albeit in a slightly intimidating and humbling way. Iceland has an irresistible charm, and whether it is your first or fifteenth visit, there is always something new to discover.

With its exciting and picturesque landscape, it is no wonder there are countless activities available in Iceland. This guide will cover the best things to do in Iceland, hopefully providing inspiration for your upcoming adventure.

1. Bathe in the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon stands out as one of Iceland’s most famous tourist attractions, and it is undoubtedly worth the hype.

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa complex featuring mineral-rich water that exhibits a striking milky blue hue due to its high silica content. Bathing in the Blue Lagoon offers numerous health benefits, particularly for skin health, and the temperature remains consistently between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius year-round.

Where to Stay Near the Blue Lagoon

The Silica Hotel is located a mere 10-minute walk from the Blue Lagoon, nestled among the lava fields, making it an excellent choice for an overnight stay.

2. Visit a Black Sand Beach

Black sand beaches are a remarkable feature of Iceland. Many people have seen stunning images of these dramatic beaches on social media.

Formed from volcanic materials eroded over thousands of years, black sand beaches offer a unique and picturesque travel experience.

• Admire the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara in Vik
• Enjoy magnificent views while driving past the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers
• See the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls

Among the best black sand beaches to visit is Reynisfjara Beach, renowned for its cinematic history, featuring in “Star Wars: Rogue One.” Alternatively, Vik Beach, which is often quieter, is also a great option for visitors exploring the south coast.

3. Take a Golden Circle Road Trip or Tour

The Golden Circle represents the perfect introduction to Iceland, encompassing a 186-mile route that loops through Reykjavik, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Icelandic highlands. Notable attractions along the way include Gullfoss waterfall.

Driving the Golden Circle takes about four hours, but expect longer travel times during winter months when conditions necessitate cautious driving. Allow a full day for stops and exploration.

For those unable to drive, various Golden Circle tours are available. A highly-rated tour can take you through the best sites in southwest Iceland, including Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park.

4. Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is truly magical. Fed by Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, this stunning lagoon is filled with enormous icebergs.

For an unforgettable experience, consider booking zodiac tours that allow you to explore the lagoon from the water, offering a unique perspective on the size and beauty of the icebergs.

5. Hike to Glacier Ice Caves

Hiking to a glacier ice cave is one of the most enchanting activities you can experience in Iceland. Popular among adventurers, these caves boast stunning turquoise ice formations that look like they were sculpted from crystal.

The best time to explore ice caves is during winter and early spring when they are most intact. It is advisable to join an organized tour to ensure safety, as ice caves can be challenging to access.

6. See the Northern Lights

Witnessing the northern lights is truly an unforgettable experience. While not exclusive to Iceland, the country is widely known for its extraordinary displays of the aurora borealis.

The long winter nights provide ideal conditions for aurora hunting, so be sure to plan a northern lights tour to improve your chances of seeing this breathtaking phenomenon.

7. Take a Dip in the Myvatn Nature Baths

While the Blue Lagoon is fantastic, if you prefer a more tranquil thermal experience, Myvatn Nature Baths offer a perfect alternative.

Positioned next to Lake Myvatn in North Iceland, this quieter and less touristy spot allows for mineral-rich soaking in calm waters.

8. Visit the Geysir Geothermal Area

For those seeking geothermal marvels, the Geysir Geothermal Area is a must-visit. Home to bubbling pools and active geysers, this area is both accessible and free to enter.

Stokkur Geysir erupts every few minutes, making it a reliable source of natural excitement.

9. Visit Ásbyrgi Canyon

Located just a short drive from Husavik, Ásbyrgi Canyon is a hidden gem. This spectacular glacial canyon is steeped in mythology, known for its horseshoe shape.

In summer, the hiking trails are quieter, allowing for a serene experience amidst stunning natural beauty.

10. Admire Diamond Beach

Unlike Ásbyrgi Canyon, Diamond Beach is a well-known tourist destination. The beach is famous for its glistening chunks of washed-up glacial ice, resembling diamonds against the black sand.

Located near Vatnajökull Glacier, it is an excellent spot to combine with other glacier-related activities.

11. See Dettifoss Waterfall

If you wish to witness one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, visiting Dettifoss is a must. Standing at 45 meters tall, it creates a mist that envelops the surroundings.

Dettifoss has also been featured in the film “Prometheus.”

12. Go for a Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull Glacier

Experiencing glacier hiking on Vatnajökull glacier is essential for adventure enthusiasts. To ensure safety, hiring a guide for this exhilarating endeavor is necessary.

Walking on an enormous ice formation is truly a mesmerizing experience that should not be missed.

13. Snorkel Silfra

For an exceptional experience, try snorkeling between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates at Silfra. This unique location, part of Þingvellir National Park, offers crystal-clear waters.

14. Akureyri Botanic Gardens

Often overlooked, the Akureyri Botanic Gardens are one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world, featuring a diverse collection of over 7,000 plant species.

15. Go Whale Watching on a Zodiac Tour

For many, an unforgettable experience is whale watching. Various tours depart from Husavik, providing opportunities to see numerous species of whales and marine life.

16. Kerid Crater

Kerid Crater is a remarkable natural landmark with its striking red rock formation and milky blue lake at its center. Visitors can walk the crater rim or descend to the lake below.

17. Get Up Close to Gullfoss Waterfall

One of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, Gullfoss cascades multiple drops as the Hvita River turns sharply. It is only a short drive from Reykjavik, making it an excellent day trip option.

18. Visit One of Iceland’s Active Volcanoes

Withmultiple active volcanoes to choose from, experiencing Iceland’s fiery nature is an adventure not to be missed. Always ensure to follow safety precautions and travel with a guide to ensure a safe experience.

19. Spend a Day in Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park boasts significant historical, cultural, and geological importance. Not only can you walk between tectonic plates, but you’ll also uncover traces of Norse culture in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

20. Ride an Icelandic Horse

Experiencing riding an Icelandic horse is a delightful adventure. Recognized for its unique gait, the Icelandic horse offers a different riding experience that can be enjoyed across the country.

21. Eldhraun Lava Fields

Eldhraun Lava Fields provide a striking landscape formed by a volcanic eruption in the late 18th century. Although walking on the moss-covered lava is prohibited, you can still capture breathtaking photographs.

22. Take a Day Trip Around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A day trip around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is perfect for those looking to maximize their Icelandic experience. This area is rich with attractions, all easily accessible by car.

Iceland Quickfire FAQs

How to Get to Iceland

Flying is the most popular method to travel to Iceland, with Keflavik International Airport being the primary entry point.

Getting Around Iceland

Given Iceland’s wilderness, renting a car or booking coach tours is recommended for exploring attractions efficiently.

Best Time to Visit Iceland

The ideal time to visit varies according to activities you wish to do, such as whale watching or viewing the northern lights, so plan accordingly.

To Conclude

Visiting Iceland promises incredible memories. The adventure-filled landscapes and stunning natural beauty will leave an indelible mark on your travel experiences.