Blue Lagoon
Region: Reykjanes Peninsula
Hot spring resort
World-famous spa facility with milky-blue geothermal water
Tourism in Iceland
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Þingvellir National Park
Region: Southwest
Cultural heritage
Birthplace of Althing where tectonic plate boundaries can be observed
Gullfoss Waterfall
Region: Hvítá River
Nature
Massive two-tiered waterfall frequently adorned with rainbows
Geysir and Strokkur Geyser
Region: Haukadalur Valley
Nature
Hot water eruption site; origin of the word "geyser"
Vatnajökull National Park
Region: Southeast
Nature
Europe's largest glacier with popular ice cave tours created by volcanoes
Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon
Region: Southern edge of Vatnajökull
Nature
Photo spot with floating blue ice chunks and seals
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Region: Near Vík village
Nature
Dramatic coastline formed by basalt columns and rough waves
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Region: West
Nature
'Iceland in miniature' with diverse landscapes and Mount Kirkjufell
Westfjords
Region: Northwest
Nature
Pristine wilderness with Dynjandi waterfall and Látrabjarg cliffs
Northern Lights viewing (various locations)
Region: South coast and northern Akureyri
Experience
Aurora Borealis visible with high probability in clear night skies from September to April
Suggested itineraries
Golden Circle One-Day Tour
Duration (days): 1
Highlights: Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Kerið Crater Hot Spring
Classic compact route covering major natural attractions from Reykjavík
South Coast, Glacial Lagoon & Black Sand Beach 3 Days 2 Nights
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Jökulsárlón, Reynisfjara
Comprehensive plan covering waterfalls, glacial lagoons, and black sand beaches with aurora viewing opportunities
North Diamond Circle Exploration
Duration (days): 2
Highlights: Húsavík whale watching, Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, Askja volcano
Small group rental car tour to enjoy the rugged northern wilderness
Travel tips
- Even in summer temperatures are around 10°C; warm clothing and rainwear essential
- Credit cards more common than cash for payments
- Gas stations with 24-hour service are rare; plan fuel stops in advance
- F-roads require 4WD vehicles and insurance coverage
- Aurora viewing success depends on moon phase and cloud cover
- At hot spring facilities, remove swimsuit and wash entire body with soap during shower
- Eye masks useful for midnight sun sleep disturbances in summer
- Note operating hours of state-run liquor store Vínbúðin
- Drone photography requires permits in national parks
- Register hiking plans on safetravel.is before departure to prevent accidents