Everything You Need To Know for a Quick Adventure to Iceland

Rent a car and drive

This is the first tip you will hear from anyone that visits Iceland. It is the absolute best way to see the country and even better at your own pace! It is simple enough to make a car reservation and pick up the car at the airport after landing. Having a car will allow you to make the journey into your own so that you can stop at as many or as little sites along the way!

Explore Reykjavik

Walk or drive around the country’s capital of Reykjavik- either on your own or with a tour group. This is the best place to learn all about Icelandic history! My personal favorite sites and things to do here include seeing Iceland’s most iconic building: Hallgrímskirkja Church (along with the Leif Eriksson statue and swings), walking down Rainbow Street, and visiting the National Museum of Iceland.

Northern Lights

The best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and April. If you have rented a car, it is as simple as driving on the road away from any light pollution, pulling over, and watching them. An unforgettable experience!

Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park

Have you ever wanted to walk between two tectonic plates? Þingvellir National Park is located in between the Eurasian and American plates and is one of the few places in the world that you can walk between two different tectonic plates! This park also has hiking trails, waterfalls, and other beautiful views that are definitely worth visiting.

Lava Show in Vik

When in Vik, this lava show is a must-do activity! It is a great way to learn all about the volcano, Katla, and more on Iceland’s volcanic history. Not only is it a fantastic educational experience, but you actually get to see lava in person! This company does such a great job of really putting on a “Lava Show” for their audience and you can experience all things lava up close and personal. You also get to take home a fun souvenir from the show and there is a great cafe to eat at with lava themed soups for after!

Glacier hiking

While in Vik, an excursion that you can book is some kind of glacier hike or ice cave tour on the volcano, Katla. This was probably one of my favorite things that we did on our trip! There are many different excursion options, so you can pick what might be best for your group. Our tour required a good amount of physical work, but it was so worth it for the views and overall experience. There are others that include four wheelers and jeeps too.

Dryhólaey Lighthouse and Lava Arch

Take a quick drive from Vik up to this lighthouse for an amazing view of the black sand beach and a lava arch! Bonus points if you make it for sunset. Just be aware- the drive up is incredibly steep, but don’t let this deter you from getting beautiful pictures from this lookout point!

Black Sand Beach: Reynisfjara Beach

Also located near Vik, Reynisfjara Beach is one of the many black sand beaches in Iceland! The sand and rocks are made up of volcanic ash (hence, the “black sand”), and it is truly like no other beach. With incredible rock formations along the beach, birds flying above, and ice sickles being within feet of the crashing waves, this is a spot that cannot be missed!

Go Chasing Waterfalls

Another reason for renting a car- you can stop at as many waterfalls that you would like to see! Some of my favorites that were right along our routes include Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and Gullfoss.

Geysir National Park

At Geysir National Park, you have the opportunity to see a natural geyser shoot up over 200 feet into the air, and it is truly spectacular! The geysir goes off pretty regularly and it is along the Golden Circle route that many groups drive along while visiting Iceland. The gift shop is also worth checking out for some fun Icelandic souvenirs.

Blue Lagoon/Sky Lagoon

Most people think of the Blue Lagoon when they think of Iceland. Iceland is home to many natural springs besides this one though, such as the Sky Lagoon! The Blue Lagoon is conveniently located near the KEF airport, so it is the perfect thing to do when arriving or before departing. However, it is very touristy so just be prepared for that. The Blue Lagoon offers many package options where you can receive face mask treatments and drinks (both of which are at swim up bars). It is a cool experience, but if you are looking for something less crowded and touristy, the Sky Lagoon may be the better option for you!

General food recommendations:

Grab a hot dog at any gas station! This is a very popular thing for people road tripping around Iceland to do. Don’t knock it until you try it- crispy onions on top are a must!

Fish and Chips! Iceland, being surrounded by water, is of course known for their amazing fish. You can’t go wrong with fish and chips here- the best places will be the most unexpected! Another great meal option while on the road.

Ingolfsskali Viking Restaurant

Not only is this place a restaurant, but it is a full Icelandic experience! I highly recommend ordering your drink in a viking horn and trying the fermented shark. Both the exterior and interior of this restaurant are nothing like I’ve ever seen. Definitely check out their website for more info, and reservations are required. This place will leave you feeling like a true viking!

Black Crust Pizzeria

Easily the most delicious pizza in Vik with an awesome atmosphere! Perfect place for dinner after an adventure packed day.

Blue Lagoon: LAVA ​​

If visiting the Blue Lagoon, I recommend making a reservation at their restaurant as well. This place has a very nice ambiance with the most incredible food!