Curator’s statement
Iceland's blend of natural beauty, geological activity, cultural richness and sustainable living practices makes it a unique and special place. The "Land of Fire and Ice" is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, making it a hotspot for volcanic activity, boasting numerous volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields. Additionally, Iceland has 269 named glaciers, countless waterfalls, rugged mountains and eight black sand beaches. With a population of around 400,000 people, Iceland has one of the lowest population densities in Europe. This sparse population allows for expansive, unspoiled nature and contributes to a peaceful atmosphere. Despite its small size, Iceland has a thriving cultural scene, with a rich music and arts community. Reykjavik, the capital, is known for its creative and progressive atmosphere.
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Things to do in Iceland
Iceland is a fantastic destination with a unique landscape and plenty to offer. Here are some top things to do:
Golden Circle tour: Visit the popular route that includes Þingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area.
Blue Lagoon: Relax in the famous geothermal spa known for its milky blue waters and therapeutic properties.
Reykjavík: Explore the capital city’s vibrant arts scene, cozy cafés and landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa Concert Hall.
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls: Admire these stunning waterfalls, with Seljalandsfoss offering a unique behind-the-falls experience.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Take a boat tour among the floating icebergs and visit the nearby Diamond Beach where ice chunks wash ashore.
Vik and the black sand beaches: Discover the dramatic landscapes of Reynisfjara Beach and the nearby Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
Snaefellsnes peninsula: Explore this region known as "Iceland in Miniature" for its diverse landscapes, including lava fields, volcanoes and coastal cliffs.
Northern lights: If visiting between September and April, look out for the aurora borealis, a spectacular natural light display.
Húsavík: Go whale-watching in this charming town, which is often considered one of the best spots for seeing these magnificent creatures.
Landmannalaugar: Experience the colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal hot springs in this area of the Highlands, ideal for hiking.
Akureyri: Visit Iceland's second-largest city, known for its botanical gardens and vibrant cultural scene.
Þórsmörk: A beautiful valley surrounded by glaciers and mountains, offering excellent hiking opportunities.
Reykjanes peninsula: Explore this less-visited area with its geothermal activity, lava fields and the Bridge Between Continents.
Hengifoss waterfall: Hike to one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, known for its striking red strata in the surrounding cliffs.
Glymur waterfall: Experience a more challenging hike to see one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, located in a scenic canyon.
Whether you’re interested in natural wonders, outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Iceland has something to captivate every traveler.
Day trips
Iceland offers a wealth of incredible day trips from Reykjavík, allowing you to explore its diverse landscapes and natural wonders. Here are a couple fantastic day trips to consider taking from Reykjavik:
The Golden Circle is a classic route featuring some of Iceland’s most iconic sights:
Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological and historical significance.
Gullfoss Waterfall: A stunning two-tiered waterfall that’s a major highlight of the route.
Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes.
Blue Lagoon: Located about 45 minutes from Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa renowned for its milky blue waters and relaxing atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy a spa experience.
Day trips provide a great way to experience Iceland’s diverse and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re interested in waterfalls, geysers or remote wilderness, there’s something for every traveler.
Places to eat & drink in Iceland
Iceland offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from traditional Icelandic dishes to modern international cuisine. Here are some top places to eat and drink in Reykjavík and beyond:
Reykjavík
Dill Restaurant: Known for its modern Icelandic cuisine and tasting menus, Dill offers a unique dining experience with locally sourced ingredients.
Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron): A casual spot famous for its lobster soup and skewers of fresh seafood. It’s a great place to sample traditional Icelandic fare.
Kopar: Located by the harbor, Kopar serves a variety of Icelandic and Nordic dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: This iconic hot dog stand is a must-visit for its famous Icelandic hot dogs, which are considered a local delicacy.
Grillmarkaðurinn (The Grill Market): Offers a range of grilled meats and fish with a modern twist. It’s known for its high-quality ingredients and stylish setting.
Fiskmarkaðurinn (The Fish Market): A well-regarded restaurant offering innovative seafood dishes and a range of other Icelandic specialties.
Matur og Drykkur: This restaurant focuses on traditional Icelandic dishes with a modern twist. It’s known for its creative approach to classic recipes.
Reykjavík Roasters: A great place for coffee lovers, known for its excellent coffee and relaxed atmosphere.
Sandholt Bakery: A popular spot for pastries, bread and coffee. It’s a great place for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Outside Reykjavík
Naustið (Húsavík): Known for its seafood, especially whale meat and other local catches. It offers a cozy atmosphere and great views.
Rub23 (Akureyri): Offers a mix of seafood and meat dishes, with a reputation for creative and high-quality food.
Sudur Vik (Vik): A charming restaurant in Vik known for its local dishes and cozy atmosphere.
Tryggvaskáli (Selfoss): A historic restaurant offering traditional Icelandic food in a warm, inviting setting.
Café Nielsen (Egilsstaðir): A cozy spot known for its cakes, sandwiches and coffee, ideal for a relaxed meal in East Iceland.
Settlement Center Café (Borgarnes): Offers a range of hearty Icelandic dishes and a comfortable place to relax after exploring the area.
Drinks
Microbreweries: Try local brews at places like Ölverk Pizza & Brewery and Borg Brugghús in Reykjavík.
Bars: Enjoy a drink at Pablo Discobar for a lively atmosphere or Kaffibarinn, a popular spot with a great selection of local beers and cocktails.
Cocktail Bars: Apótek Bar and Bar Ananas are known for their creative cocktails and stylish settings.
Iceland’s dining scene reflects its rich culture and natural resources, offering everything from traditional dishes to innovative cuisine. Enjoy your culinary adventures!
Need to know
RVing in Iceland is a fantastic way to explore the country’s stunning landscapes at your own pace. Here’s everything you need to know to plan a memorable RV trip in Iceland:
Planning your trip:
RV Rental: Numerous companies offer RV rentals in Iceland, including:
Campervan Reykjavik, Go Campers, Happy Campers and Rent.is.
Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and early fall).
Driving license:
Ensure you have a valid driver’s license. A standard license is usually sufficient for most RVs, but check with your rental company for specific requirements.
Insurance:
Opt for comprehensive insurance coverage, including gravel protection, as Iceland’s roads can be challenging, with lots of gravel and unpredictable weather.
Road Conditions: Icelandic roads vary from paved highways to rough gravel tracks. Check road conditions regularly, especially if traveling to remote areas.
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Stacey Hess
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Iceland. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Recenter Yourself and Reconnect with Family in Bali, Indonesia.