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On the borders of the Arctic and the North Atlantic oceans lies a Nordic island country popular as the ‘Land of Fire and Ice.’ Iceland is home to strikingly diverse natural landscapes, earning this unique nickname. It’s as if Iceland stepped right out of the pages of a ‘Dungeons and Dragons’ novel, offering an adventurous blend of icy glaciers, spewing lava fields, and snow-capped mountains next to lush valleys. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or exploring frozen caves, Iceland is an unmissable destination for a winter getaway. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 things to do in Iceland to make your trip unforgettable.
Things To Do In Iceland – Top 10
Explore Lake Myvatn
One of the most exciting things to do in Iceland is to explore the iconic Lake Myvatn, a geological marvel 79 km east of Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland. Shaped by volcanic eruptions over two millennia, the lake offers unique sights year-round. In summer, migratory birds flock to the area, and you can witness the bizarre yet beautiful ‘Moss Balls’ phenomenon. While swimming isn’t recommended due to geothermal activity, the rugged lava fields surrounding the lake make it perfect for capturing stunning landscapes on camera.
Drive Across The Golden Circle
Next, embark on a scenic tour of the Golden Circle, a 300 km loop through Iceland’s Southwest. This route takes you to three must-visit sites: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and the awe-inspiring Gullfoss Waterfall. Along the way, you’ll pass lava fields, pristine rivers, and active geysers (don’t miss the frequent eruptions of Strokkur!). A self-drive offers flexibility, allowing you to savour each breathtaking view at your own pace.
Chase The Midnight Sun or The Aurora Borealis
Depending on when you visit Iceland, you’ll either be chasing the surreal Midnight Sun or the mesmerising Aurora Borealis. During summer, Iceland’s extended daylight hours create ethereal landscapes bathed in golden light, perfect for photographers and explorers alike. In winter the Northern Lights steal the show, as the skies above Iceland dance with vibrant hues of greens, purples, and blues. One of the best places to spot the Northern Lights is Thingvellir National Park, where minimal light pollution allows for an uninterrupted view of this celestial wonder.
Revitalise Your Senses At The Blue Lagoon
A visit to Iceland isn’t complete without a dip in the iconic Blue Lagoon, one of the most luxurious geothermal spas in the world. Located in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, this man-made lagoon is fed by the output of a nearby geothermal power plant, resulting in soothing, mineral-rich waters. The warm, milky blue waters are said to have healing properties, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventuring in Iceland’s icy wilderness.
Hike Through Skaftafell Nature Reserve
For those who love the great outdoors, Skaftafell Nature Reserve is a must-see. Nestled within the Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell boasts incredible hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, glaciers, and stunning views of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. The most popular hike is Svartifoss, or “Black Falls”. Here water cascades over stark black basalt columns, creating an otherworldly sight. Consider hiking the glaciers under the guidance of an expert for an experience like no other.
Spot Wildlife At The Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
If you’re looking to go off the beaten path, head to the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in Iceland’s northwest. Accessible only by boat or on foot, this untouched wilderness is perfect for wildlife lovers. Here, you can spot Arctic foxes, seals, puffins, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat. This reserve is home to dramatic cliffs and deserted beaches, offering a peaceful retreat far away from the hustle and bustle of the usual tourist spots.
Go Whale Watching In Husavik
Often referred to as the whale-watching capital of Iceland, Husavik is an excellent destination for spotting these majestic creatures. Husavik is a prime location for sightings of humpback whales and even the elusive blue whale. Whale-watching tours operate throughout the year, but the best time is between April and October when sightings are most frequent. It tops the list of the best things to do in Iceland, so ensure you pack extra woollens.
Visit The Largest Glacier In Europe
Iceland is home to Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, which covers about 8% of the country’s landmass. You can take a guided glacier hike to explore its stunning ice caves, which form anew each winter. The caves are an ever-changing wonder, with intricate tunnels and frozen formations that seem almost otherworldly. For the more adventurous, snowmobiling across the glacier offers a thrilling way to experience the vast frozen landscape. While serving as the best adventurous things to do in Iceland.
At Reynisdrangar Meet The Frozen Trolls
Visit Reynisdrangar for an unforgettable Icelandic winter experience. These iconic basalt sea stacks, which rise dramatically from the ocean near Vik’s black sand beach, are said to be trolls turned to stone, frozen forever in Icelandic folklore. Set against powerful waves and rugged cliffs, Reynisdrangar is a photographer’s dream, offering surreal landscapes and dramatic coastal scenery. Whether under the golden light of sunrise or sunset, the mysterious sea stacks and their folklore create an enchanting atmosphere, making Reynisdrangar a must-see for any winter traveller in Iceland.
Take A Stroll At The Diamond Beach
No winter trip to Iceland is complete without experiencing the magical Diamond Beach. Located next to the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, this unique stretch of black volcanic sand is littered with icebergs that have drifted ashore after breaking off from the glacier. These ice chunks, polished by the waves, gleam like diamonds against the dark sand, creating a mesmerising contrast. Whether you’re photographing these glittering ice formations or simply enjoying the surreal beauty of the beach. Diamond Beach is a must-visit for anyone exploring Iceland’s southeast coast.
