46 Top Things to Do in Iceland: The Ultimate Iceland Bucket List
This is the most detailed Iceland bucket list we’ve ever written, containing everything we’ve ever done in Iceland, from hikes to hidden gems. So, if you’re looking for the best things to do in Iceland, this is a great place to start!
If I’m being perfectly honest, this entire blog is effectively a love letter to Iceland. This is our favourite country in the world, and worthy of being on anyone’s bucket list.
In my opinion, even people who prefer a beach break should explore this northern island at least once in their lifetime. You might just decide that you prefer dramatic black and beaches just as much as hot ones in southern Europe…
We’ve spent over a month exploring Iceland, in almost every season. We’ve visited the north, road tripped around the entire ring road, done a south coast road trip in winter, and based ourselves in Reykjavik and done day trips from the city.
Based on everything we’ve learned across multiple visits, I’ve decided to put together the most comprehensive list of things to do in Iceland that I’ve ever written.
As we go back to the country and explore more, I’ll keep updating this guide to give you the best and most up-to-date information possible about this beautiful country.
For this post, I’ve organised it by location, so you can plan your stops based on the areas you’re planning to visit. I’ve also included a few bucket list stops, which you can do in several locations around the island!
So, here are 42 of the most wonderful things to do and places to visit in Iceland.
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Iceland Must-Do’s!
Short on time? These are 5 bucket-list experiences we recommend to everyone who visits Iceland! ❤️
Bucket List Experiences
In Iceland, it’s super easy to tick off so many bucket list experiences in one trip. The island is compact and beautiful, with a huge range of different sights in a relatively small area.
This is partly why we ended up falling in love with it – there’s just so much to see and do! So, these are a few things that you might want to tick off your Iceland bucket list!
1. Go Glacier Hiking
This remains one of the most exciting things we’ve ever done. But it was also pretty terrifying. Iceland is one of the best places in Europe to go glacier hiking, and there are plenty of different options to choose from.
We did a hike on Solheimajokull Glacier during our first trip to Iceland, and it was magnificent. It was actually part of our guided tour of the south coast.
We didn’t hire a car when we visited Iceland for the first time, so we were doing all of our day trips from Reykjavik, and we booked this as a package.
Despite it being pretty pricey (it cost us around £120 per person), this tour was so worth it for the experience. The views from the top of the glacier are unreal, and our guide even suggested we drink some of the glacier water, which was delicious!
❤️This is the best thing we’ve ever done in Iceland
2. Stay in a Remote Cabin
Iceland is home to some of the cutest and most unique accommodations we’ve ever stayed in. Easily one of the best things to do in the country is find a remote cabin and go off-grid for a few days.
The cabin below was located in Borgarnes, and we stayed here for 2 nights while exploring the west of Iceland. The sunset was stunning, plus it was on its own private black sand beach.
We have done this on several occasions (we also stayed in several off-grid cabins on our Ring Road road trip), and it’s been magical.
There’s almost no light pollution around you, so you can see the stars, and if you’re really lucky (and visiting in winter), you’ll be able to see the northern lights too.
In fact, if you want to maximise your chances of spotting the aurora during a winter trip, we’ve created a list of the best aurora cabins in Iceland.
Plus, it’s just a lovely atmosphere. After a day exploring Iceland, you can head back to your cabin and relax by the fire with a drink and watch the stars. It’s beautiful.
❤️These were the cabins we stayed in, and they were perfect!
TOP TIP: For some of our favourite hotel stays in Iceland, check out the best Golden Circle hotels and the best hotels on the South Coast.
3. Chase the Northern Lights
We were so lucky to have seen the northern lights during our time in Iceland.
We saw a high prediction on one of the nights we were there, and it just happened to be on a night where we were staying in a remote hotel on the south coast.
We sat outside under blankets with hot water bottles on our laps until 2 am, waiting for the lights to appear.
When they did, we were jumping around and squealing like crazy people, but it was so worth it. It’s a beautiful phenomenon and something everyone should experience once in their life.
A much easier way to see them is to book a Northern Lights tour, and you’ll also need to make sure that you’re visiting Iceland in the winter months. But it’s such a magical experience.
I’ll be very surprised if this isn’t already on your Iceland bucket list!
4. Explore an Ice cave
There are several ice caves in Iceland, and they are some of the most dramatically beautiful landscapes you could imagine.
Walking through a tunnel of ice surrounded by picturesque ice formations, black sand, and stunning blue light is a pretty surreal experience.
The two most popular ice caves in Iceland are the impressive Katla Ice Cave in the south, which is the only ice cave in Iceland which you can visit all year round, or the Blue Ice Caves in Vatnajokull.
The Blue Ice Caves are located near the glacier lagoon and are much further to reach from Reykjavik. Plus, they can only be accessed in winter.
Despite the journey to reach them, these are some of the most magnificent places to visit in Iceland and are highly worth adding to your bucket list.
❤️ If you want to explore an ice cave in Iceland, this is the one we recommend!
5. Go Whale Watching
If you love wildlife, Iceland is one of the absolute best places in Europe to spot whales. These gentle giants visit the waters around Iceland all year round, and, although they’re more commonly spotted in summer, you can see them all year round too!
We did a whale watching tour in Akureyei in mid-January and were lucky enough to spot a humpback whale. It’s still one of the most incredible experiences we’ve ever had in the country, and I would book another tour in a heartbeat!
The best place to watch whales in Iceland is widely considered Husavik in the north; however, we chose Akureyri instead because the fjord is much more sheltered, which is good if you suffer from sea-sickness (like me!).
You can also book a tour from Reykjavik, and they’ll take you out onto the ocean around the city.
❤️ We highly recommend this whale-watching tour – we had the most amazing trip!
6. Spot Puffins
As well as whales, Iceland is well known for being a great place to go puffin watching. These tiny and rather clumsy birds are incredibly adorable and very funny to watch.
They spend most of their lives at sea, but come to shore in the summer months to nest and raise their young. At certain locations all over Iceland, you can see them flying around and hopping about on the cliffs near their burrows.
When we visited Iceland in June, we travelled to Dyrhólaey on the south coast to spot these little birds. Even though it was a pretty grotty day, we got lucky and managed to spot several puffins on the cliffs.
One actually got really close to us as well. It was pretty amazing and another experience we’ll never forget in Iceland.
The Classic Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is one of the most popular places to visit in Iceland. It’s home to some of the country’s most iconic sights andis truly a beautiful part of the country.
We’ve visited the Golden Circle three times, once in summer, once on our winter road trip in March, and a third time on our first-ever trip to Iceland in December.
Despite it being beautiful, it’s always pretty crowded, and to be honest, we think other places in Iceland are more beautiful. However, if this is your first time in Iceland, don’t skip the Golden Circle – it’s still worth a visit!
Here are all of our favourite places in the Golden Circle.
7. Watch Strokkur Geysir Erupt
Strokkur is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, and it was also the most crowded place we experienced during every trip we’ve done to Iceland.
A must-see on any Golden Circle itinerary, this is Iceland’s most well-known geyser. Erupting roughly every 10-15 minutes, it’s a pretty exhilarating stop, and it’s pretty fun waiting for it to erupt. But, be warned, it will probably be busy here.
This was also the only place in Iceland where we struggled to find a parking space. With all the cars and tour buses, it was pretty tricky. Plus, there’s also a restaurant and hotel in the area, so that adds to the busyness.
Although this is one of the best things to see in Iceland, the tourist crowds can dampen the experience a little.
If you want to see this gem at the best time, I recommend coming early in the morning. You could even stay at their hotel if you want the place all to yourself!
❤️If you don’t fancy driving, we loved this tour during our first trip to Iceland.
TOP TIP: Parking here is free, and the Geysir is open 24/7, so you can turn up whenever you like to watch it erupt.
8. Admire the Power of Gullfoss Waterfall
If you’re driving the Golden Circle, this will probably be your next stop after seeing the Geysir. Gullfoss is around a 10-minute drive from Geysir, and although it is also one of Iceland’s top attractions, we didn’t think it was quite as busy as Geysir.
This is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in southern Iceland. The power of the water here is unreal, and every Golden Circle tour will stop here.
We’ve visited Gullfoss in both winter and summer, and it gives a very different experience every time.
In summer, you can walk down to the platform right above the falls to see them up close – although we ended up getting pretty soaked by the spray! This is usually open from June until October, and it’s absolutely beautiful.
In either month, you can also walk along metal platforms above the falls to get some great views.
👉 Check out our experience on a Golden Circle tour here.
TOP TIP: We found that it can get insanely windy here, especially on the platforms over the top of the falls. There were some points where we had to hold onto the railings to stay upright! So, be extra careful and wrap up warm.
9. Explore Thingvellir National Park
This is one of the only places in the world where you can walk between two tectonic plates. The most famous place to visit in Thingvellir National Park is the Almannagja Gorge, which is where the two tectonic plates meet.
We’ve done this walk many times, and the dramatic scenery never gets old!
There are lots of hiking trails in the park, and you can also explore waterfalls, climb to magnificent viewpoints, admire fissures between continents, see the cutest little white and green church, and much more.
10. Visit the Secret Lagoon
Yep, the Golden Circle has its own geothermal pool! We absolutely love geothermal spas in Iceland, and they’re such a wonderful way to relax after a day of exploring and braving the elements!
If you want a great alternative to the Blue Lagoon, we recommend a trip to the island’s oldest swimming pool. The Secret Lagoon is a much simpler alternative to the famous pool, and in a way, it’s much nicer for it.
It was made in 1981, and the water here is heated by a hot spring as opposed to the geothermal power station that heats the Blue Lagoon. Once you’re done bathing, it’s worth having a look around the area and seeing the spring as well.
❤️ This is one of the best geothermal pools to visit in Iceland.
TOP TIP: The Secret Lagoon is much more affordable than the Blue Lagoon too, so great if you’re travelling to Iceland on a budget and still want to experience its geothermal spa culture.
11. Snorkel Between the Tectonic Plates
One of the most unique things to do in Iceland is to snorkel between two tectonic plates. Known as Silfra Fissure, this spot is also located within Thingvellir National Park.
You can book lots of different guided tours that will take you into the fissure, and you can swim between the plates. The water is crystal clear, and you’ll have some of the best visibility of any water you’ve ever swum in.
You can do this all year round as well. Snorkelling in the fissure is an even more unique experience when the surroundings are covered with ice and snow. Although, word of warning, your hair might just freeze when you get out!
12. Explore Oxarafoss Waterfall
One of my favourite short hikes in Iceland is to Oxararfoss waterfall. This is the prettiest waterfall in Thingvellir National Park, and it’s fairly easy to get to.
From the main visitor centre, you simply follow the path through the gorge, up a set of steps, and then turn left. Follow that path for about 5 minutes, and you’ll reach the falls. You should be able to get there from the car park in about 20 minutes.
The falls themselves are beautiful. Admittedly, we don’t think it quite compares to many of the waterfalls along the south coast; however, it’s definitely worth seeing if you’re in the park.
We visited during the winter months, and the whole area was covered in ice.
👉 Check out our full guide to the best time to visit Iceland for all of our tips!
13. Admire Bruarfoss Waterfall
Of all the stops on the Golden Circle, this is one of our favourites. It’s also one of the least visited, as the tour buses traditionally don’t stop here.
When we visited, there were only around 10 other people here, which was a massive difference from the hundreds (possibly!) at Geysir!
A bit of a hidden gem, Bruarafoss waterfall used to be a lot harder to reach than it is now. Getting to the waterfall used to involve a 2-hour hike, until it grew in popularity.
Now, they’ve built a new car park just a 5-minute walk from the falls.
Bruarfoss is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. The colour is also outstandingly blue. When I first saw the photos, I thought it must’ve been edited, but nope – it really is that colour!
There’s a small bridge that you can walk across to see the falls from both sides, and you could still extend your visit and do the full hike if you want to.
We chose not to because we had other places we wanted to see in the Golden Circle, but if you love hiking, this is another great option.
14. Walk Around Kerid Crater
This stop is a little off the beaten track on the Golden Circle, but some of the tour groups do stop here. It’s also one of the only natural attractions in Iceland that you have to pay to visit. Tickets are 600 ISK per person, which is around £3.50 or $4.80.
I love the different colours of Kerid Crater. You can see reds, browns, and greens on the rim, which contrast with the ice white in the lake and the bright blue of the sky above. It’s a great photography spot!
You can walk around the rim of the crater above and also walk down the wooden steps to the lake at the bottom. Both times we’ve visited, the lake has been frozen solid, but it does thaw out in the summer months.
TOP TIP: Despite having to pay for tickets here, the parking is free. Also, this is another spot where the wind can get quite brutal, so be extra careful walking around the top if you’re visiting on a windy day.
Our Favourite Spots in South Iceland
The South of Iceland is one of our favourite regions of the entire country. We spent an entire trip in March road tripping around here, and I always think there’s more to do in the south than any other part of Iceland.
There’s a huge range of sights, from incredible waterfalls to glaciers, to black sand beaches and much more. If you only have a short trip to Iceland, don’t skip the south coast – we think it’s stunning every time we visit!
15. See the Incredible Skogafoss Waterfall
This might be Iceland’s most famous waterfall, and it’s famous for a reason. The beautiful waterfall is located along the south coast and was one of the first natural wonders we ever saw in Iceland.
There are two ways to see Skogafoss – from the ground, and you can also hike up the 527 steps up the mountain to view the waterfall from above.
The climb really made our legs burn a bit, but I hate cardio, so I wasn’t really surprised! There’s no resting point along the stairs, and they are also a little wobbly. Sometimes it felt like the whole thing was going to fall apart!
The views from the top are good, although, to be perfectly honest, we prefer the view from the bottom. I think it’s much more impressive to see Skogafoss in full, but we still think the climb to the top is worth doing at least once.
We visit Skogafoss every time we come to Iceland, and the views never get old. It’s a truly beautiful place and one of the top places to visit in Iceland.
TOP TIP: Parking here is free, and there are toilets that you can use in the car park.
16. Explore Reynisfjara Black Beach
Reynisfjara Black Beach is one of the most powerful places to visit in Iceland. I was completely captivated by the waves here on my first visit and probably spent about 30 minutes just watching them crash into the sand. It was mesmerising.
But, while they are beautiful, they can also be pretty dangerous.
Reynisfjara has what is known as sneaker waves. These waves are much larger than they appear and can travel far up the beach and drag people back into the water.
Since the ocean in Iceland is so cold, this can be deadly, so it’s advisable to keep an eye on the water at all times.
But despite the danger here, this is one of the most visited places in Iceland. It’s one of our favourite beaches, an essential stop on any south coast itinerary, and you’ll find lots of tour buses visiting here.
It’s incredibly photogenic too, with black sand, basalt columns in the cliffs, nesting seabirds, and pillars of rock out in the ocean.
17. Be Amazed by Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
When I say that you’ll be amazed by this place, I’m not kidding. You literally will be. There’s nowhere like it in Europe, and it’s insanely beautiful.
On our winter trip to Iceland, we weren’t sure if we were going to make it here because we had a very long drive and it was super windy. Winter driving in Iceland is no joke! But we made it, and I’m so glad we did because it’s absolutely stunning.
Located along the east side of the southern coast, the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is without doubt one of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders.
Created when the Breidamerkurjökull glacier began retreating in 1934, the lagoon is now Iceland’s deepest lake. The icebergs floating on the water are over 1000 years old, and if you visit during the right season, you might also be able to see seals lounging on the icebergs.
We saw a few bobbing their heads up in the water, and it was super cute!
It’s a truly special place and a must-visit on any Iceland bucket list.
❤️ This is easily one of the most magical places to visit in Iceland
TOP TIP: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is about a 5-hour drive from Reykjavik. If you want to visit, I recommend staying in a hotel near Jokulsarlon, staying in Vik the night before, or leaving very early in the morning. You’ll need a full day here.
18. Find Kvernufoss Waterfall
I think if I had to choose one waterfall to visit again in Iceland, it would be this one! This waterfall is something of a hidden gem in Iceland, but it’s also one of the most beautiful falls that we’ve visited.
It honestly surprised me that Kvernufoss waterfall was as quiet as it was. Especially considering it’s just a 5-minute drive from Skogafoss, which is almost always busy.
But it was much less touristy and more beautiful for it (in my opinion).
Kvernufoss doesn’t have its own car park, so the best way to see this gem is to park at the Skogar Museum. From there, you can easily locate the trailhead and begin the short hike to the waterfall.
The hike will take you through a canyon, and eventually, you’ll reach the falls. Like Seljalandsfoss, you can walk behind Kvernufoss. The view is just incredible.
19. Explore Diamond Beach
This is another of the most beautiful places to visit in South Iceland. We spent around an hour here, and I could’ve easily spent more time just admiring the beach and watching the waves crashing against the icebergs.
Located opposite Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is one of the prettiest black sand beaches in Iceland.
It’s covered in icebergs, which have washed onto the sand from the lagoon next to it. In the right light, it looks like it’s sparking with hundreds of diamonds – which is what gave it its name.
There are two sides to Diamond Beach. The first side is walkable from the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon car park, and the second side is located over the bridge across the river.
I recommend visiting the furthest side for the best views and the largest icebergs.
❤️ This is one of the most magical places to visit in Iceland
20. Walk behind Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Another of the most famous waterfalls on Iceland’s south coast is Seljalandsfoss. This stunning waterfall is like Kvernufoss because you can walk behind it.
The views from behind the waterfall are pretty spectacular, especially at sunrise or sunset when the sky turns a glorious pinky-orange colour.
Seljalandsfoss is just a short drive from Skogafoss along the south coast, and most people who visit these two waterfalls see them on the same trip. These are also two essential stops on any tour of Iceland’s south coast.
❤️ This south coast tour is a great way to see some of Iceland’s best waterfalls
21. Admire Solheimajokull Glacier Tongue
If you want to see a glacier but don’t fancy hiking up it, a trip to Solheimajokull might just be what you need.
It’s located along the south coast, so I recommend it for any southern Iceland road trip. It’s also much more accessible than many of the other glaciers in Iceland, and you can walk along a fairly easy path to reach the tongue.
This was the glacier that we hiked on, but I was impressed before we even got onto the ice. The bright blue of the ice against the water was stunning, and seeing a glacier tongue should definitely be on your Iceland bucket list.
22. Go Riding on Icelandic Horses
Icelandic horses are adorable and some of the friendliest horses you’ll ever meet. Going horse riding is one of the best things to do in Iceland.
You can do tours around the island, but there are quite a few located along the south. Most will last an hour or so, but you can also get longer tours that last half a day or a full day.
If you really love these animals, you can even choose to stay on a horse farm in Iceland, which offers daily rides and experiences with the horses.
23. Walk to Fjadrargljufur Canyon Viewpoint
One of Iceland’s most dramatic canyons, this is a great stop between Vik and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
The hike starts at the car park and starts going uphill gradually almost immediately. It levels off after a while, and there are several viewpoints off the main trail where you can stop and view the canyon.
We managed the hike from the car park to Fjadrargljufur Canyon in about 20-minutes, although we stopped at viewpoints several times along the way.
When you get to the end, you’ll find two further viewing platforms. One allows you to look back down the canyon, and the second allows you to view several waterfalls.
This is another of the lesser-visited stops along the south coast, and we saw not nearly as many tourists here as at the other stops.
TOP TIP: If you are visiting Iceland in winter, you might want to bring crampons on this hike, as the trail can be icy and slippery.
24. Get a Coffee From Skool Beans Cafe
If you have a sweet tooth or are a bit of a coffee addict (like me!), then you have to go to Skool Beans. This micro-roaster is tucked down a bumpy dirt track in Vik. I actually thought the road to get here was worse than some of the roads in the Highlands!
Nonetheless, it’s worth it. Skool Beans is a pretty unique coffee shop since it’s been fashioned out of an old school bus.
Inside, you’ll find two rows of tables on either side of the bus and little metal stools. There are also lots of quirky artworks and funny plaques on the walls.
The menu itself has a lot of choices, from a huge list of coffee drinks to an almost equally large selection of hot chocolate options. You’ll also find teas, cakes, and hot bagels.
I chose a mocha, and Andrew has their most impressive hot chocolate, very rightfully named ‘The Overdose’.
TOP TIP: There aren’t any toilets here. If you also need the loo, you can find a free toilet in the Kronan supermarket across the road.
25. Visit Gljúfrabúi Waterfall
I’m so glad we’ve finally made it to this waterfall, as it’s an absolutely beautiful addition to your Iceland bucket list! We visited in June, and it was fairly quiet considering it was peak summer.
If this waterfall isn’t on your list, you are missing out. Gljúfrabúi is one of the most impressive waterfalls we’ve ever visited, and we absolutely loved it.
You have to walk through a cave to get to it, so it’s also a unique experience just getting there! But once you’re inside, you cansee the incredible waterfall tumbling down onto the rock in front.
26. Explore the Village of Vik
This is the most popular village along Iceland’s south coast, and many people make the drive to Vik from Reykjavik.
We love this town and end up here at least once every time we travel to Iceland. It’s a tiny but picturesque place close to many of South Iceland’s top attractions.
There are some great things to do in Vik, and you’ll also find the cutest little red and white hilltop church here.
Vik is also a great place to base yourself while exploring South Iceland.
You’ll find all the amenities you could need, including supermarkets, fuel stations, restaurants, and hotels, as well as some very cute self-catering accommodations.
👉 If you’re planning on staying in Vik, check out all of our top hotel recommendations here.
The Beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula
We absolutely loved driving around the Snafellsnes Peninsula and couldn’t believe how underrated it was compared to other parts of Iceland. It’s nicknamed ‘Iceland in Miniature’ and contains a whole range of unique sights in such a small area.
You’ll find glaciers, blacks and beaches, white sand beaches, mountains, cliffs, volcanic craters, and so much more. Our first visit was in March, so the whole area was snowy and frozen, and it was also so beautiful and well worth a visit.
27. Admire Kirkjufellsfoss
Of all the sights in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this was by far the busiest. It was also the only one with chargeable parking.
It’s pretty easy to see why it’s so popular, though, as the scenery is stunning. It’s one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland and is completely incredible.
The magnificent waterfall framed against Mount Kirkjufell in the background makes for a very dramatic picture, especially at sunset or sunrise when the skies are golden.
We visited during our winter itinerary, and the area was very snowy. The waterfalls were still partially frozen, too, but that made it no less beautiful.
28. Discover Street art in Hellissandur
Hellissandur is definitely a hidden gem in Iceland. You’ll find this little town on the western tip of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and an entire section has been dedicated to street art murals.
We only hopped out of the car for about 10-15 minutes to have a look around, so you don’t need long here. But you can see the huge ram artwork, the Viking ship, the rainbows, the creepy screaming man, and several others.
You’ll only need perhaps a 10-minute stop here, but if you love quirky things and art, it’s some of the best in the country.
29. Walk Along Arnarstapi Cliffs
We absolutely loved this stop in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. It’s one of the prettiest stops we visited on our Snaefellsnes road trip, and the coastal scenery here is breathtaking.
You could easily spend half a day here, as there’s a very beautiful clifftop walk from Arnarstapi to the neighbouring village of Hellnar.
However, if you don’t fancy going for a long walk, you can just walk along the cliffs at Arnarstapi and still see some breathtaking views. This is what we did during winter, and we probably still spent around an hour here exploring the area.
We only had to go a short 5-10 minute walk from the car park before we found several beautiful coastal viewpoints.
There are thousands of nesting birds on the cliffs, you can admire the famous archway, walk across the slightly nerve-wracking land bridge, and see the lighthouse and the harbour. It’s a beautiful part of the peninsula and well worth a visit.
30. Climb Saxholl Crater
This was one of the most fun places we’ve visited in Iceland. Located on the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, it’s a bit of an Icelandic hidden gem. Most of the tour groups won’t stop here, and we barely saw any other people when we visited.
Saxholl Crater is an extinct volcano, and we had to climb a rickety metal staircase up the side of it to the top. The staircase isn’t too long, and we reached the top in around 5-10 minutes.
From the top, you can see for miles, all the way to the ocean. We absolutely loved the views from the top, and it was so beautiful. But the thing that made it exhilarating was the wind.
From the top of the crater, the wind was so strong. You could lean into it, and it would hold you upright. We had to be extremely careful when walking around and even more careful when climbing the staircase.
TOP TIP: You may need to bring crampons here as the staircase can get quite icy during winter. You’ll also need to take extra care if it’s really windy.
31. See the Budakirkja Black Church
I think this is one of the cutest churches in Iceland! Budakirkja black church was our first stop on our road trip around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
You don’t need to stop here for a long time – I think we were only here for around 20 minutes – but the church is definitely worth seeing. It’s a very picturesque spot, popular with photographers and surrounded by glaciers and mountains.
32. See the Trawler on Djúpalónssandur Black Beach
A 16-minute drive further along the peninsula from Budakirkja black church will bring you to another of Iceland’s more beautiful black sand beaches.
Djúpalónssandur is famous for two reasons: the natural beauty of the area and the British trawler that was wrecked there in 1948.
It only took us around a 5-minute walk from the car park to get to the beach, and you have to walk through a small canyon to get there. On its own, this is very beautiful, and we absolutely loved the views here.
Once you arrive on the sand, you can walk straight down to the water’s edge, but I recommend you turn right and head to the small cove first.
👉 If you’re visiting the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, check out our full guide to Djúpalónssandur Beach.
The Reykjanes Peninsula
This is such an underrated part of Iceland, and we really enjoyed our road trip around Reykjanes. We visited during our southern trip in March.
While most people only visit the famous lagoon, we wanted to explore a little bit more and see some of the other sights in the area. Here’s everywhere we visited on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
33. Relax in the Blue Lagoon
Okay, full transparency – we’ve never actually been to the Blue Lagoon! The first time we booked tickets was on our first trip to Iceland in December 2021.
This was during the pandemic, and we accidentally misunderstood the testing rules to enter the country. Unfortunately, we were forced to quarantine for 24 hours in our hotel, which means we missed our slot at the lagoon.
The second time we booked tickets was during the 2024 volcanic eruption in Grindavik, and the lagoon was closed the entire time we were in Iceland. So, when it comes to visiting the Blue Lagoon, we’ve had the absolute worst luck!
However, even though we haven’t been ourselves, I couldn’t write a list of amazing things to do in Iceland and not include one of the country’s top attractions.
Soaking in the milky blue waters of the geothermal spa is pretty high on most people’s Iceland bucket list.
Next time we visit, we will definitely be visiting – they do say third time lucky, after all!
❤️ Book tickets to the Blue Lagoon in advance as it will sell out!
34. Stand Under the Bridge Between Continents
This was the second place we stopped on our road trip around Reykjanes. It’s very similar to Thingvellir National Park in that you can literally walk between two tectonic plates, but this time, they’re literally connected by a bridge.
The Eurasian and North American plates have been gradually drifting apart in Iceland, and a canyon opened up between them.
The bridge was built across this canyon, and you can walk from one tectonic plate to the other. Of course, you can also climb underneath the bridge and get the slightly cheesy photo that we took above – it was pretty fun though!
The surrounding area here is also quite dramatic, with the ocean in the distance and a huge expanse of black sand stretching for miles.
35. Explore the Seltun Geothermal Area
Just a short drive from the Blue Lagoon, you’ll find the Seltun Geothermal Area. I personally thought this was one of the most dramatic landscapes on the Reykjanes Peninsula, and we loved it here. Plus, it’s completely free to visit.
To get to the main area, we had to walk through a billowing cloud of steam. It absolutely stank of sulfur, but that’s just part of the fun when you visit geothermal areas in Iceland!
Once you’re past the steam cloud, you can explore the rest of the area, with wooden boardwalks, steaming springs, and bubbling mud pots.
We climbed up the steps to the top of the park for beautiful views over the area. Then, you can either continue your walk or head back in a loop to the car park. We did the full loop, and the entire walk only took us around 30 minutes.
36. See Gunnuhver Hot Springs
We stopped here first on our Iceland road trip in March, and we could see the clouds of steam billowing to the sky in the distance before we actually arrived at the spring.
Once again, the entire area stank of sulfur, but the spring was really cool to see. There are boardwalks that you can use to explore the surroundings, and a plaque of information which tells you about the legend and why the spring got its name.
If you have time, you can also extend your visit here, but head to the nearby lighthouse. Or simply do the short walk on the boardwalks and then head back to your car.
❤️If you’d rather not drive, this is our favourite tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula
Highlights of Reykjavik
While we personally think that the nature of Iceland is undoubtedly more impressive, I also don’t think you should skip Reykjavik. The city is a vibrant hub of people, culture, and unique attractions, and we’ve visited some really cool places here.
You’ll find many of the county’s best museums in Reykjavik, along with fantastic restaurants, nightlife, and unique buildings. It’s a great spot for a bit of sightseeing.
We based ourselves in the capital during our very first trip to Iceland and did day tours, which we also really enjoyed. So, there’s plenty of reason to visit Reykjavik and here’s all of our favourites.
37. Visit the Whales of Iceland Museum
Whales of Iceland is one of Iceland’s best museums, and we really enjoyed our visit there. It’s a must-visit if you enjoy learning about wildlife in Iceland – particularly whales, of course!
The museum is fairly small but very detailed. As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by life-size statues of around 30 different whales, dolphins, and porpoises, ranging from the common dolphin to the gigantic blue whale.
Also, there’s a show in the theatre about the effect humans are having on the oceans and what it’s doing to marine life. It’s sad and very eye-opening, but worth a watch.
38. Watch the Lava Show
Practically right next to the Whales of Iceland exhibit (or they have a second venue along the south coast in Vik), the Lava Show is one of Reykjavik’s newest attractions.
If you’ve ever been curious about all of the volcanic activity in Iceland, you’ll love this.
You’ll be able to witness real lava (taken from the Katka eruption in 1918) flowing into the room. And the heat emitting from the lava alone is absolutely incredible!
During our show, our host created miniature lava tunnels and strings of lava flowing through the air, and even demonstrated exactly what happens when lava interacts with ice to show how the volcanoes impact Iceland’s landscapes.
If you purchase premium tickets, you can also see the furnace where the lava is heated, and try on the suit that the staff use when handling hot lava.
It’s an incredibly fun thing to do in Iceland, and we had a wonderful experience here.
❤️ We highly recommend this incredible experience in Iceland.
39. Go on a Food Tour
Iceland has a pretty interesting cuisine. If you’ve done any research on food in Iceland, you may have heard all sorts of strange dishes like dried fish and fermented shark.
Well, going on a food tour gives you a chance to try all of these things!
Eating out in Iceland can be expensive, and there were always things I wanted to try on the menu that I wasn’t sure I would like.
But during our food tour in Reykjavik, we got to try so many delicious foods and satisfy many curiosities and cravings. It’s well worth the experience if you love food and want a unique experience in Reykjavik.
Although I must say, I won’t be going out of my way to buy fermented shark!
40. Explore Perlan Museum
Another unique attraction in Iceland’s capital city, Perlan is our favourite museum in Iceland to date. Perlan collects the best of Iceland and places it in a large domed building on a hill overlooking the city.
You can see exhibits on all sorts of things here. From the glaciers and how they’re retreating, to the wildlife in the oceans, the volcanic activity, and the elusive northern lights.
There’s also an observation deck offering great views over the city, a real ice cave kept at a permanent -10°C, and an augmented reality experience about the nesting seabirds.
❤️ This is one of our favourite museums in Reykjavik and a must-visit!
41. Climb Hallgrímskirkja Church
One of the most iconic symbols of Iceland and Reykjavik in particular is Hallgrímskirkja, the beautiful church located in the capital. We’ve visited Hallgrimskirkja several times and always love admiring the profile against the city.
Not only is this a very unique building with a design inspired by the basalt columns around the island, but you can also see incredible views from the top of the tower. The view below was what we saw during our trip to Iceland in December.
You have to pay a small fee of 1600 ISK to ascend to the top, but from the viewpoint, you can see all of the colourful houses of Reykjavik below and, on a clear day, the towering Mount Esja in the distance.
42. Walk Down Rainbow Street
Another of Reykjavik’s most iconic landmarks, Rainbow Street is a must-see when you visit the capital. Located opposite the church, the street, also known as Skólavörðustígur, is a great place for a bit of shopping.
Lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, you can buy all sorts of things from a cup of coffee to an Icelandic sweater. We bought our souvenirs here the first time we came to Iceland.
43. Soak in the Sky Lagoon
We absolutely loved our visit to the Sky Lagoon. It’s Iceland’s newest thermal pool and is only a 15-minute drive from the city centre, so ideal if you want a soak, but don’t want to go too far from the capital.
The pool is pretty unique. Because of its position above the ocean, it almost appears to drop over the edge of a cliff into the sea. I thought it looked a bit like an infinity pool plunging off a cliff.
They also have a special ritual that we absolutely loved. This also makes it much more than just the simple pool experience of many of Iceland’s other pools. The ritual includes 7 steps, including a sauna, steam room, and body scrub. It’s very refreshing.
❤️ I recommend booking tickets in advance as they will sell out!
44. Admire The Sun Voyager
This is one of my favourite places in Reykjavik. The statue itself is a curious design, but paired with the beautiful scenery surrounding it, makes it a wonderful place to see.
Located along the waterfront in the capital, the Sun Voyager is a statue resembling a metal skeleton of a ship. It is supposed to represent the island’s seafaring history and symbolise a journey out at sea.
Across the water from this statue, you can see magnificent views over the ocean and the mountains in the distance. You can go for a lovely walk along the waterfront here. There’s also a little yellow lighthouse a short way away from the statue.
45. Try an Icelandic Hot Dog
Hot dogs are something of a delicacy in Iceland. And, to be honest, they’ve earned it!
One of the things you have to do in Iceland is to try one of these hot dogs. They are utterly delicious and very underrated in my opinion.
The hot dog itself is boiled in beer, then placed in a fresh bun on top of crispy onions and drizzled with a mixture of ketchup and Icelandic mustard. Delicious!
TOP TIP: If you do decide to try one, I recommend getting it from Bæjarins Beztu. These are the OGs of Icelandic hot dogs and the oldest provider on the island.
46. See the Architecture of Harpa Concert Hall
One of the most beautiful buildings in Reykjavik, Harpa Concert Hall is another structure that’s well worth a visit if you’re in the capital. The influence of the dramatic-looking hall came from the Icelandic scenery and the northern lights.
The walls are made of glass and reflect the light beautifully. We visited at dusk once, and the entire building looked purple because of the way the light reflected on it. It was stunning.
Where should I go for the first time in Iceland?
For a first-time visit to Iceland, people typically stick to the most popular sights: the South Coast, Reykjavik, and the Golden Circle.
And while these sights will certainly be the busiest places to visit in Iceland, they are all pretty spectacular, so well worth seeing.
This was exactly what we did during our first trip to Iceland. We based ourselves in Reykjavik and took a day tour to the Golden Circle and a day tour to the South Coast.
We had a fantastic time, but we didn’t see everything we wanted to. But then again, Iceland is a country that you can visit again and again without getting bored.
There’s always something new to see, and I can guarantee that you’ll be coming back again after your first visit. But these sights are a great way to dip your toes into the magical landscapes of Iceland.
👉 Check out our guide to where to stay in Reykjavik.
Are These All of The Best Things to Do in Iceland?
Short answer: no! 😅
Despite travelling to Iceland several times and driving the whole of the Ring Road, there are plenty of places we haven’t been, including the Westfjords and a lot of the highlands.
There are plenty more magnificent hiking trails, wildlife experiences, and more spectacular waterfalls to see.
As soon as we visit more places, we’ll be updating this list. But for now, check out our 4-day Iceland itinerary and our 2-day Reykjavik itinerary for more inspiration.
These are the best things that we’ve done in Iceland so far. If you’re planning a trip to this magical country, I hope this has given you lots of inspiration.
If you have a question, ask us anything in our free Facebook Group.
👉 Planning a road trip around Iceland? Check out our pre-made South Iceland itinerary and take the stress out of planning!
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