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 galleries tracing deep historical roots, Reykjavík effortlessly combines traditional culture and urban life with the great outdoors.

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

The Golden Circle and Southern Coast embody the pristine drama for which Iceland’s landscape is known. Glacial lagoons, mountains, volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls only scratch the surface of the region’s mesmerizing ambiance.

You can trace Icelandic history to the first parliament in the 10th century, dive into a crystalline lake, visit small villages, or find glaciers for a comprehensive view of Iceland’s unending beauty, whether visiting as a couple or with family.

Highlights: Seljalandsfoss • Eyjafjallajökull • Skógafoss • Thingvellir National Park • Geyser Geothermal Field • Gullfoss Waterfalls

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

Pictures fail to capture the inherent wonder and captivating spirit in and around Vatnajökull National Park.

From Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to the trails winding around Skaftafell, the looming peak of the nation’s tallest mountain to unfettered icy landscapes, a visit to Vatnajökull 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: Skaftafellsjökull • Fjallsjökull Glacier • Jökulsárlón Glacier • DiamondBeach • Fjallsárlón • Jökulsárlón

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

Akureyri is unique, with lively cafés, delicious restaurants, and art galleries. With a delightful combination of modern life and historic aesthetics, it is unlike any place in the country, offering romance and charm at every turn.

The city squeezes into the country’s longest fjord and neighbors the edge of the Arctic Circle. A relaxed ambiance and fierce culinary scene make Akureyri a destination in its own right, while also making the surrounding nature accessible.

Highlights: Whale Watching • Hrísey • Myvatn Hot Spring • Botanic Garden • Laufás Turf Houses • Akureyri Church

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 days

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.

Sea birds 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 color to the landscape, highlighting the majesty of encircling fjords.

Highlights: Egilsstaðir • Seydisfjordur • Mount Herðubreið • Skrúður Island • Hengifoss

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

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 with 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: Látrabjarg • Dynjandi • Hornstrandir Nature Reserve • Rauðasandur • Hot Springs • Ísafjörður • Patreksfjörður

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

The Snæfellsnes 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 volcanic peaks crowned by the Snæfellsjokull glacier.

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 immerse you in the essential spirit, natural history, and traditions of greater Iceland.

Highlights: Kirkjufell • Kirkjufellsfoss • Gerðuberg • Ölkelda Mineral Spring • Ytri Tunga Beach • Búðakirkja

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 days

You could experience the highlights of Iceland in five days, but 10 to 12 will give you the best opportunity to experience the country’s culture, landscapes, and natural wonders. Whether winter, summer, or in between, 10 to 12 days in Iceland can immerse you in the 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. The country overflows with exciting things to do, immersing you in volcanic territory or taking you to a glacier, dramatic waterfall, or epic coastline.

Our Iceland travel guide has more information and tips to help plan your perfect trip, and our Iceland tours and vacations can give you inspiration for your preferred travel experience.