Iceland is a country like no other, with its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and rich history. As a traveler, you’re likely looking for the best way to experience all that Iceland has to offer. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the must-see cities and attractions of Iceland.
Iceland’s Cities: A Brief Overview
Iceland has only two major cities, Reykjavik and Akureyri. Reykjavik is the capital city and serves as the perfect starting point for your Icelandic adventure. This vibrant city offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional culture, with plenty of opportunities to explore its rich history and stunning natural surroundings.
Akureyri is Iceland’s second-largest city, located in the north of the country. It’s known for its picturesque fjords, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. Akureyri is also home to the nearby Tröllaskagi mountains, which offer breathtaking views and unique landscapes.
The Golden Circle (Circolo d’Oro)
The Golden Circle is one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik, covering some of Iceland’s most breathtaking attractions. The tour takes you to Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gulfoss waterfall, offering a glimpse into Iceland’s unique geological history.
Peninsula of Reykjanes and Blue Lagoon
The peninsula of Reykjanes is home to the famous Keflavik International Airport, as well as the stunning Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa nestled in a lava field. This unique attraction offers a relaxing soak in warm, milky-blue waters surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Peninsula of Snæfellsnes
The peninsula of Snæfellsnes is a hidden gem of Iceland’s west coast, boasting some of the country’s most picturesque beaches and stunning coastal scenery. From the iconic Kirkjufell mountain to the charming fishing village of Stykkishólmur, there’s no shortage of natural beauty and charm.
Vík and Reynisfjara Beach
Vík is a small village on Iceland’s south coast, known for its dramatic black sand beach and picturesque cove. The Reynisfjara Beach is particularly famous for its unique basalt columns and stunning rock formations, making it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.
Waterfalls of South Iceland
South Iceland is home to some of the country’s most breathtaking waterfalls, including Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. These natural wonders offer a glimpse into Iceland’s unique geological history and stunning scenery.
Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach
Jökulsárlón is one of Iceland’s most famous glacial lakes, offering breathtaking views of floating icebergs and stunning scenery. The nearby Diamond Beach is particularly charming, with its black sand and glinting icebergs that have been polished to a mirror finish by the waves.
Höfn and Eastern Iceland
Eastern Iceland is often overlooked by tourists, but it boasts some of the country’s most unique landscapes and natural attractions. From the picturesque fishing village of Höfn to the stunning scenery of the Eastfjords, there’s no shortage of adventure and exploration in this remote corner of Iceland.
Akureyri and Goðafoss
Akureyri is home to the nearby Goðafoss waterfall, a stunning natural wonder with its 60-meter-high drop creating a breathtaking spectacle that’s not to be missed.
Westfjords: A Hidden Paradise
The Westfjords are one of Iceland’s most remote and rugged regions, boasting some of the country’s most unique landscapes and natural attractions. From the picturesque villages of Patreksfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður to the stunning scenery of the Westfjord National Park, there’s no shortage of adventure and exploration in this hidden paradise.
Itinerary: 7 Days in South Iceland and Peninsula Snæfellsnes
Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik and Exploration of the City
- Arrive in Reykjavik and spend your first day exploring the city
- Visit the Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa concert hall, and the National Museum of Iceland to get a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture
Day 2: Drive to Peninsula Snæfellsnes
- Drive south from Reykjavik to the stunning Peninsula of Snæfellsnes
- Visit the charming fishing village of Stykkishólmur and explore the scenic coastal scenery, including the iconic Kirkjufell mountain
Day 3: Explore the South Coast
- Drive along Iceland’s famous south coast, stopping at some of the country’s most breathtaking waterfalls, including Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss
- Take a scenic hike in the stunning national park of Skaftafell and marvel at the glacial lake Jökulsárlón
Day 4: Drive to Kirkjubæjarklaustur
- Drive east from the south coast to the charming village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur
- Visit the nearby Parque Nazionale Skaftafell, home to some of Iceland’s most unique landscapes and natural attractions
Day 5: Explore the Eastfjords
- Drive through the picturesque Eastfjords, stopping at scenic coastal villages and exploring the stunning scenery of this remote corner of Iceland
Day 6: Visit Akureyri and the Tröllaskagi Mountains
- Visit the charming city of Akureyri and explore the nearby Tröllaskagi mountains
- Hike to the picturesque village of Siglufjörður and enjoy the stunning scenery of this remote corner of Iceland
Day 7: Return to Reykjavik
- Drive back to Reykjavik, reflecting on an unforgettable week-long adventure through South Iceland’s stunning landscapes and unique culture
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
Itinerary: 10 Days along the Ring Road Islandese
Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik and Exploration of the City
- Arrive in Reykjavik and spend your first day exploring the city
- Visit the Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa concert hall, and the National Museum of Iceland to get a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture
Day 2: Drive along the Golden Circle
- Drive through some of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes, stopping at Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gulfoss waterfall
- Explore the unique geological features of this region and marvel at the stunning scenery
Day 3: Visit the Waterfalls of South Iceland
- Drive south from the Golden Circle to visit some of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls, including Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss
- Take a scenic hike in the stunning national park of Skaftafell and marvel at the glacial lake Jökulsárlón
Day 4: Explore the Peninsula of Snæfellsnes
- Drive through the charming fishing village of Stykkishólmur and explore the scenic coastal scenery, including the iconic Kirkjufell mountain
- Visit the nearby national park of West Iceland and marvel at its stunning landscapes
Day 5: Drive to Kirkjubæjarklaustur
- Drive east from the south coast to the charming village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur
- Visit the nearby Parque Nazionale Skaftafell, home to some of Iceland’s most unique landscapes and natural attractions
Day 6: Explore the Eastfjords
- Drive through the picturesque Eastfjords, stopping at scenic coastal villages and exploring the stunning scenery of this remote corner of Iceland
Day 7: Visit Akureyri and the Tröllaskagi Mountains
- Visit the charming city of Akureyri and explore the nearby Tröllaskagi mountains
- Hike to the picturesque village of Siglufjörður and enjoy the stunning scenery of this remote corner of Iceland
Day 8: Explore the Westfjords
- Drive through the rugged national park of West Iceland, exploring its unique landscapes and natural attractions
- Visit the charming villages of Patreksfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður and marvel at the stunning scenery of this remote corner of Iceland
Day 9: Return to Reykjavik
- Drive back to Reykjavik, reflecting on an unforgettable two-week adventure through Iceland’s stunning landscapes and unique culture
When planning your trip to Iceland, keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and precipitation. Be sure to pack layers and waterproof gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
In addition to the natural beauty of Iceland, the country is also home to a rich cultural heritage. From traditional Icelandic cuisine to modern art and design, there’s something for everyone in this unique and fascinating land.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to experience the natural beauty of Iceland, this guide has everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this incredible country.