Things To Do In Iceland

Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

Set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, the sight of calming blue mineral-rich waters with steam rising into the air is iconic Iceland.

The Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa close to Reykjavik, is rated Iceland’s top tourist attraction. It is the perfect place to enjoy a soak, focus on your well-being, and bring your Iceland holiday to a memorable finish.

Black sand beaches

Iceland’s black sand beaches are unlike any tropical beach you might have visited. The result of volcanic activity over millions of years, the fine black sand on these beaches presents a brilliant contrast to the white surf that laps its shores. While not for swimming or sunbathing, these surreal strips of volcanic shoreline offer unique rock formations, high cliffs, and even icebergs.

Reynisfjara on the South Coast is a world-famous black sand beach, as is Diamond Beach, by Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where you can also expect to spot Icelandic seals and orcas.

Whale watching

With 24 species of whales found in these North Atlantic waters, whale watching is one of the best things to do in Iceland. Minke whales are most common and seen year-round. Husavik, on the country’s north coast, is considered the country’s whale-watching capital.

You can also go whale watching from Akureyri and even the capital Reykjavik to see whales, dolphins, and a fantastic variety of seabirds, including puffins. Acrobatic humpback whales come to Iceland in the summer, while orcas are spotted between November and March, especially around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a dramatic landscape of dried magma fields covered in moss and glacial springs and surrounded by mountains.

It is also the location of the Silfra Fissure, the gap between the earth’s North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Here, you can snorkel or scuba dive at Almannagja. Hike or ride horseback on one of the many trails and admire the region’s scenic beauty. You can also visit The Althing, the site of the first parliament in the world.

Geysir Geothermal Area

An important stop on the Golden Circle tour is the Geysir Geothermal Area, which gives you a peek into nature’s power and the volatility of this land. Located in the Haukadalur Valley, 1.5 hours from Reykjavik, the region is known for its water- and steam-spewing geysers.

While the original Great Geysir has been dormant since 2000, the neighbouring Strokkur puts on a fabulous show, blasting water 40 metres high every 5-10 minutes. Due to intense geothermal activity, Iceland also has many phenomenal hot springs. Taking a dip in one is an excellent way to round off a day of hiking or driving. 

Reykjavik

Iceland’s capital city sparkles with its vibrant nightlife, hip pubs, and coffeehouses. Spend time in its fascinating museums to understand Icelandic history and heritage. Dine on traditional Icelandic fare with a twist.

Visit the Hallgrímskirkja church, the city’s iconic symbol, stop at the viewing platform at the Pearl Observatory and stroll around the Tjörnin pond. 

Hikes and treks 

Hiking and trekking are among the most exciting things to do in Iceland to experience its natural beauty. On walking tours, outdoor enthusiasts will love discovering the country’s stunning landscapes of volcanoes, lava fields, snowy peaks, mossy slopes, glaciers, and waterfalls.

Some popular trails are the Laugavegur and Fimmvörduháls trails, but there are many more short and easy trails or long hikes—to suit every fitness level. For the more seasoned walker, there’s a scenic guided 5-7-hour trek to Snaefellsjokull glacier, located atop a volcano. The Landmannalaugar area is also one of Iceland’s top hiking sites because of its multi-coloured rhyolite mountains and hot springs.

Gullfoss and other waterfalls

Iceland is full of gorgeous waterfalls. You have Glymur in Hvalfjörður fjord in the west and the single-drop Hengifoss in the east. Skógafoss, one of the biggest waterfalls, lies in the south, while the mighty Dettifoss is in the northeast.

Iceland’s most famous waterfall is Gullfoss, the “golden waterfall”, located just 2 hours east of Reykjavík and part of the Golden Circle tour.