7 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

Reykjavik is a colorful coastal city connected to Iceland’s rich Viking heritage. The quiet streets boast a whimsical and artistic ambiance steeped in history and highlight the distinct perspective of locals shaped by the dynamic landscape. Whether you visit one of the city’s thermal pools or the nearby Blue Lagoon, explore the church at the heart of the city or wander the galleries tracing the deep historical roots, Reykjavik effortlessly combines traditional culture and urban life with the great outdoors.

Highlights: Blue Lagoon | Hallgrimskirkja | National Museum | Settlement Exhibition | Culture House

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

Best Time to Visit: February | March | August | September | October

The Golden Circle and Southern Coast embody the pristine drama for which Iceland’s landscape is known. Glacier lagoons, rigid mountains, epic volcanoes, shimmering glaciers, and curtains of waterfalls only scratch the surface of the region’s mesmeric ambiance. You can trace Icelandic history to the first parliament in the 10th century, dive into a crystalline lake, visit small villages, or find exciting glaciers for a comprehensive view of Iceland’s unending beauty.

Highlights: Seljalandfoss |  Eyjafjallajokull | Skogafoss | Thingvellir National Park | Geyser Geothermal Field   |  Gullfoss Waterfall

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

Best Time to Visit: February | March | August | September | October

Pictures fail to capture the inherent wonder and captivating spirit in and around Vatnajokull National Park. From Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon to the trails winding around Skaftafell, the looming peak of the nation’s tallest mountain to unfettered icy landscapes, a visit to Vatnajokull National Park is worth your time. Black pebbled beaches, soaring summits, and glistening glaciers immerse you in natural adventure and the drama found around every corner of Iceland.

Highlights: Skaftafellsjokull | Fjallsjokull Glacier | Jokulsarlon Glacier | Diamond Beach | Fjallsarlon | Jokulsarlon

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

Best Time to Visit:  February | March | July | August

Akureyri is unique with lively cafes, delicious restaurants, and art galleries. With a delightful combination of modern life and historic aesthetic, it is unlike anyplace else. The city squeezes into the country’s longest fjord and neighbors the edge of the Arctic Circle. A relaxed ambiance and fierce culinary scene turn Akureyri into a destination in its own right while also making the surrounding remote nature accessible.

Highlights: Whale Watching | Hrisey | Myvatn Hot Spring| Botanic Garden | Laufas Turf Houses | Akureyri Church

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 days

Best Time to Visit: June | July | August | September | October |  November

Iceland’s eastern fjords feel remote and undiscovered. As an epic escape into action and adventure, you can find pristine hiking trails and wander the waters far off the headlands. Seabirds and soaring cliffs capture the essence of the coastline with dazzling rhyolite reflected in the sunlight. Waterfalls thunder, small towns offer a charming look at local culture, and emerald ponds bring a touch of a new color to the landscape, highlighting the majesty of encircling fjords.

Highlights: Egilsstadir | Seydisfjordur | Mount Herdubreid | Skrudur Island | Hengifoss

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

Best Time to Visit: June | July | August | September

Iceland’s Westfjords bring the song of the scenery to a resounding climax as familiar crowds in the more popular areas of the country fade away. Tiny fishing villages have preserved their traditions, and the coastal fjords lead to the dazzling central mountains. Beaches radiate rainbows of color and trails lead to glimpses of avifauna and Arctic foxes. Geothermal springs and oceanside vistas only add to the mystical atmosphere of the untouched region.

Highlights: Latrabjarg | Dynjandi | Hornstrandir Nature Reserve | Raudasandur | Hot Springs | Isafjordur | Patreksfjordur

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

Best Time to Visit: April | May | June | July | August

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula displays the epic beauty that makes the island nation such a popular and enchanting place. Crunchy lava flows lead to steep sea cliffs, and golden beaches contrast the rich volcanic peaks crowned by the jewel of the Snaefellsjokull glacier. Quiet horse farms bring a touch of rural charisma to the drama of the unforgiving landscape but the scenery, culture, and overall beauty of the wider region immerses you in the essential spirit, natural history, and traditions of greater Iceland.

Highlights: Kirkjufell | Kirkjufellsfoss | Gerduberg | Olkelda Mineral Spring | Ytri Tunga Beach | Budakirkja

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

Best Time to Visit: May | June | July | August | September

You could experience the highlights of Iceland in five days but 10 to 12 days gives you the best opportunity to experience Iceland’s dynamic culture, landscape, and natural wonder. Whether winter, summer, or in between, 10 to 12 days in Iceland can immerse you in the inspiring scenery, give you access to a culture dating back a millennium, and surprise you with time to venture off the beaten path.

Iceland embodies the fantastical with ancient scenic charms and a culture that balances modern luxuries with traditional hospitality. Iceland practically overflows with exciting things to do, with every possibility immersing you in an ancient volcano or taking you on a glacier, uncovering a dramatic waterfall or witnessing an epic coastline. Our Iceland Travel Guide has more helpful information and tips to help experience your perfect trip. You can also speak with an Iceland travel specialist by filling out a Trip Request or by calling our team at 1-888-265-9707.