Popular in Things To Do In Iceland

1. The Golden Circle: Iceland’s Classic Route Of Natural Wonders

Iceland, a land woven from the very fabric of fairy tales, holds within its heart a journey so captivating it has earned the title of the Golden Circle. This route, a quintessential experience for any traveler, showcases the unparalleled natural beauty, geological prowess, and historic depth of this island nation. As a travel writer fortunate enough to traverse the globe, I can affirm the Golden Circle tour stands out, offering an immersion into the essence of Iceland's remarkable landscape.

Starting from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle encompasses three of Iceland’s most famous sights: Þingvellir National Park, the geothermal area around Geysir, ...

2. Northern Lights In Iceland: Nature’s Dazzling Night Show

Witnessing the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is an ethereal experience that etches itself into the memories of those fortunate enough to see it. This spectacular natural phenomenon is not just a simple holiday attraction; it is a celestial ballet of light dancing across the night sky, with colors so vibrant they seem almost supernatural. For the avid traveler, the pursuit of the Northern Lights is more than just a journey—it's a pilgrimage to the most stunning light show on Earth.

The Northern Lights are primarily visible in the polar regions, within a belt of radius 2,500 km centered on ...

3. Seljalandsfoss: Walk Behind One Of Iceland’s Most Photographed Waterfalls

Nestled in the heart of Iceland, a country famed for its surreal landscapes that blur the lines between reality and fantasy, is the mesmerizing Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. One of the island's most famous natural wonders, this waterfall is unique for the enchanting experience it offers—allowing visitors to walk behind its cascading water curtain. This journey is not just a path behind a waterfall; it's a passage into a realm where elements of nature dance together in harmony.

Standing at about 60 meters tall, Seljalandsfoss is a part of the Seljalands River that has its origin in the volcano glacier Eyjafjallajökull. This ...

4. Iceland Ice Caves: Enter A Crystal World Beneath The Glaciers

Embarking on an adventure into the heart of nature's most stunning ice caves offers an incomparable experience, attracting intrepid travelers seeking the fusion of beauty, mystery, and a touch of the ethereal. Ice caves, sculpted masterfully over eons by the relentless forces of water, wind, and cold, stand as one of Earth's most mesmerizing phenomena. These natural wonders, found in the colder regions of the planet, invite adventurers to delve into a world where science meets fantasy, illuminating the depths with an icy glow that seems borrowed from another realm.

One of the most magical aspects of exploring ice caves ...

5. Gullfoss Waterfall: Iceland’s Golden Cascade

The allure of Iceland's landscapes, where nature showcases its unbridled power and beauty in equal measure, is encapsulated perfectly by the Gullfoss Waterfall. This spectacular natural phenomenon, often referred to as the "Golden Falls," is a must-visit for any true travel enthusiast. Located on the Hvítá river in southwest Iceland, Gullfoss is a striking testament to the raw, untamed beauty that Iceland is celebrated for. The waterfall, with its massive water flow and breathtaking vista, offers an unforgettable experience that epitomizes the essence of exploring the Icelandic wilderness.

Gullfoss is not just any waterfall; it is a part of the ...

6. Vík Beach: Iceland’s Black Sand Beauty On The Edge Of The Atlantic

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, nestled along Iceland's rugged southern coastline near the quaint fishing village of Vík í Mýrdal, is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that captures the imagination of all who venture to its shores. Known for its towering basalt stacks, roaring Atlantic waves, and, most notably, its distinctive black sand, this beach offers a unique and unforgettable landscape that is as beautiful as it is dramatic. Walking along Reynisfjara is like stepping into another world, where the forces of nature converge to create a scenery so surreal, it must be seen to be believed.

The black sand of Reynisfjara ...

7. Kerid Crater Lake: A Vivid Volcanic Wonder In Iceland

Amongst the myriad wonders offered by Iceland, Kerid Crater Lake stands out as a marvel of natural beauty that is both accessible and awe-inspiring. Approximately 3,000 years old, Kerid is a relatively young addition to the volcanic landscape that defines much of Iceland's rugged terrain. Its origin, tied to the explosive volcanic activity that is characteristic of the region, has gifted the world with a spectacular, almost perfectly circular caldera adorned with steep, colorful slopes and a tranquil lake at its heart.

What sets Kerid apart from other volcanic craters is not just its visually striking appearance but its accessibility ...

8. Arctic Henge: Iceland’s Monument To Myth And Midnight Sun

Far beyond the traditional pathways trodden by eager tourists, nestled in the remote beauty of Iceland's northeastern reaches, lies an enigma as captivating as the Northern Lights themselves—The Arctic Henge. This colossal stone monument, inspired by ancient traditions and mythologies, stands not only as a testament to Iceland's rich cultural heritage but also as a beacon for those yearning to connect with the mystic aspects of nature. The Arctic Henge, or Heimskautsgerðið as it is known locally, was envisioned as a way to harness the magical allure of the Arctic Circle's perpetual light and darkness, weaving together the threads of ...

9. Icelandic Saga Centre: Discover The Heart Of Viking Heritage

Iceland, a land woven with the threads of myth, history, and breathtaking landscapes, invites travelers to step into a world where the line between the tangible and the tales of old blur enticingly. Among its numerous cultural treasures, the Icelandic Saga Centre in Hvolsvöllur stands out as a beacon for those eager to immerse themselves in the Viking age and the sagas that have shaped Iceland’s identity. This center offers a unique journey back in time, enabling visitors to grasp the profound impact of these ancient stories on modern Icelandic culture.

The Icelandic Saga Centre goes beyond being a mere ...

10. Harpa Concert Hall: Iceland’s Beacon Of Culture And Architecture

Nestled on the edge of the old harbour in Reykjavik, the Harpa Concert Hall stands as a beacon of artistic and architectural wonder. It's not merely a venue for music; it's a symbol of Iceland's cultural renaissance and resilience. Opening its doors in 2011, Harpa has quickly become a must-visit landmark for any traveler exploring the land of fire and ice. Its distinctive design, characterized by a stunning façade of geometric glass panels that mirror the vibrancy of the Northern Lights, encapsulates the spirit of innovation and creativity that pervades Icelandic society.

Harpa's architectural grandeur, envisioned by the Danish firm ...

11. Reykjavík: Iceland’s Vibrant Capital Of Culture And Nature

Amid the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja Church stands as a beacon of architectural marvel and historical significance. This Lutheran church, not just the largest in Iceland but also one of its tallest structures, offers a fascinating journey into Iceland's religious heritage and artistic innovation. Architecturally inspired by the basalt lava flows—a common sight in Iceland's rugged landscape—Hallgrimskirkja is a testament to the country's unique approach to blending modernity with natural elements. Its towering presence can be felt from almost anywhere in the city, inviting travelers and locals alike to explore what lies within its strikingly beautiful ...

12. Vík í Mýrdal Church: A Hilltop Icon Overlooking Iceland’s Southern Coast

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Iceland's southern coast, the Vík í Mýrdal Church offers an unforgettable vista that captivates the heart of any visitor. Known in Icelandic as Víkurkirkja, this quaint, white church with its stark red roof stands as a sentinel overlooking the small town of Vík í Mýrdal, the southernmost village in Iceland. Its elevated position on a hill allows for panoramic views of the surrounding town, the endless Atlantic Ocean, and the captivating Reynisdrangar sea stacks. This emblematic landscape is more than a simple postcard picture; it's a serene escape that embodies the tranquility and stark ...

13. Þingvellir National Park: Where Nature And History Converge In Iceland

Thingvellir National Park stands as a monument to both the natural beauty and the profound historical significance of Iceland. Its landscapes are an immersive tapestry of tectonic fissures, tranquil lakes, and verdant vistas that beckon travelers from around the globe. Situated on the northern shores of Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, the park not only boasts extraordinary geological features but also holds a special place in the heart of Icelandic culture and history. It was here, amidst the sprawling beauty, that the Alþingi, the world's oldest existing parliament, was established in 930 AD. This site underscores the deep historical roots ...

14. Lake Mývatn: Iceland’s Geothermal And Volcanic Wonderland

Nestled in the heart of North Iceland, the Myvatn area emerges as a natural wonderland, exuding an otherworldly beauty that captivates the imagination of every traveler who ventures into its domain. Known for its unique geological formations, thriving bird life, and mesmerizing hot springs, Myvatn offers a travel experience that feels both intimate and grandiose. The region, sculpted by volcanic activity over millennia, presents a landscape so diverse that it can only be described as a microcosm of Iceland's natural wonders.

One cannot discuss Myvatn without mentioning the lake itself. Lake Myvatn, the fourth largest in Iceland, is a sanctuary ...