Iceland is a country that we think of when we want jaw-dropping beauty. It is a place where nature always takes centre stage; complete with awe-inspiring glaciers, geothermal springs and the Northern Lights, even the lively capital of Reykjavik boasts stunning mountain and sea views! Isolated from the rest of Europe for centuries, this one island is full of so much mystery and culture, that it’s no wonder why visitors are captivated by it from all over the world.
Although known as the top spot to go to for a glimpse of Aurora Borealis, this enchanting land of fire and ice has so much more to offer! So, if you’re curious about what it has to offer or getting ready to set off on your Icelandic adventure, here are ten of the best places in Iceland that you just have to visit.
Places you can’t miss in Iceland
The Blue Lagoon
Taking our top spot for best places in Iceland has to be the Blue Lagoon in Grindavik. A stunning geothermal spa surrounded by bewitching black lava rocks, this is the most relaxing natural bathing experience you will ever have. The perfect activity rain, shine or snow, take a dip in the warm waters and treat yourself to a glass of fizz at the charming swim-up bar!
Relax in the waters by day, and by night, spend a cozy Friday evening in with our host Daði. Relish in a home cooked 3 course meal made from local produce!
Golden Circle Route
This Eastern region of Reykjavik boasts all the natural wonders that Iceland offers. From historic sites, quaint villages, geysers and waterfalls, this one place is full of the country’s trademark landscapes. It is also home to one of the most popular attractions in the country: Gullfoss Falls! There is nothing like the sight of these gorgeous waters tumbling through the Hvita river canyon and hot springs against the picturesque snow-peaked mountains.
Thingvellir National Park
Holding great historical importance and a geographical phenomenon, Thingvellir National Park is the only place in the world where you can swim between two tectonic plates! Surrounded by towering mountains and evidence of volcanic activity, swimming along the great Eurasian-American gap in crystal waters is a once in a lifetime experience!
Reykjavik
We can’t talk about the best places in Iceland without talking about the bustling capital of Reykjavik! Although the country’s beauty lies in the countryside, this city is full of life. With its buzzing art culture and abundance of shops, bars and restaurants, you can spend days in the capital and be endlessly entertained!
If you’re looking for unmissable experiences after a long day, why not check out a Reykjavik Eatwith experience full of craft beers, Icelandic tapas and the inside scoop!
Strokkur
Iceland is covered in mystical geysers (hot springs) which enchant visitors as the landscape comes to life with steaming activity. The best places in Iceland for this experience is Strokkur. The most energetic spouting spring in the country, you can walk through these hot bubbling fields of steam and watch the sporadic eruptions shooting from the ground. Definitely an exciting experience!
Vatnajökull National Park
Home to the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull National Park is an obvious candidate for one of the best places in Iceland to visit. Taking up around 14% of the country, this ‘land of ice’ is best visited in the winter to appreciate the magnificent blue-tinted glacial tongues and waterfalls in their prime! The majestic Skaftafell Ice Cave is the most popular attraction here, although it is home to other natural features such as the Vatnajokull glacier, the volcanic craters of Lakagigar and the impressive Dettifoss waterfall.
Myvatn
Myvatn is one of the best places in Iceland for viewing lava fields and bird watching! Formed thousands of years ago by a river of hot lava, this breathtaking landscape is now occupied with more than 100 species of birds that feast on the midges. For a full experience of the natural wonders of Myvatn, head to the rural community of Skutustadir for the best view of the pseudo-craters and Dimmuborgir for surreal rock formations.
Natural wonders and food lovers, a great combination in our opinion! If you’ve whipped up an appetite exploring by day, why not treat your taste buds to a modern Icelandic dinner with the locals?
Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park
Looking for the best Icelandic volcano? Then Maelifell is a great choice! Located in the beautiful Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park, this perfect cone is as classic as volcanoes come. Whether you visit in winter or summer, the volcano is a sight to be hold covered in snow or vibrant green moss!
Landmannalaugar
Located within the Fjallaback Nature Reserve, Landmannalaugar is a hiking haven for avid outdoor adventurers. Full of jaw-dropping scenery, admire the multicolored rhyolite mountains and lava fields that look out of this world! The perfect place for hiking, horse riding or just sitting in awe, Landmannalaugar is the perfect place for a great day out.
Jokulsarlon
One of the most memorable experiences you can have in Iceland is the sight and sound of an iceberg breaking off a glacier and crashing into the sea. The best place to witness this? Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Nothing compares to viewing this impressive display of nature’s power!
Make some memorable food experiences in Iceland and find the perfect food experience for you!
Although we could go on about more amazing places in Iceland, these are our top suggestions of the ones that can’t be missed. Where are you’re favorite places in Iceland?
If you want to have it all, stunning beauty and great food, head on over to Eatwith and find a host and food experience that will make your trip an unforgettable one!
