Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
The various things to do in Iceland make it a destination suited to various interests. Its natural beauty and geological features provide opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural activities. Whether you enjoy outdoor exploration or learning about local traditions, Iceland has much to offer. With its various attractions, travellers can experience the country in ways that suit their preferences. Iceland’s natural environment is well-preserved, allowing visitors to experience its landscapes closely. The combination of nature and activities makes it a destination worth considering.
10 Best Things To Do In Iceland
Here are many things to do in Iceland that will make your trip memorable:
1. Witness The Northern Lights
Photo: Giuseppe Milo / Wikimedia Commons
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are visible in Iceland during the long, dark winter nights from September to April. This natural phenomenon lights up the sky with vivid colours, creating an unforgettable sight. The best views are found in areas away from city lights, where clear skies provide optimal conditions. Many guided tours take visitors to locations with the highest chances of witnessing this display. Patience is essential as the lights typically appear around midnight, often beginning as a green arc in the northern sky before evolving into vibrant patterns.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 nights dedicated to Northern Lights hunting
Entry Fee: Free (tour cost may vary)
Timings: 9 PM – 2 AM
Location: Rural areas and spots away from city lights
2. Explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a remarkable natural attraction in Iceland, formed by the melting ice of Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in the country. The lagoon is filled with icebergs that have broken off from the glacier, floating peacefully in the water. These icebergs vary in size and shape, creating an impressive and dynamic landscape. Visitors can take boat tours to navigate through the ice-filled lagoon, offering a closer look at these giant structures. Seals are often spotted swimming in the lagoon, enhancing the experience. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is genuinely one of the best things to see in Iceland.
Ideal Duration: Half-day tour
Entry Fee: Free to visit; boat tours have a fee
Timings: Year-round; boat tours available seasonally
Location: Vatnajökull National Park, Klapparstígur 25, 101 27, Iceland
3. Relax In The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous spots, known for its warm, mineral-rich waters. This place is located in a lava field, where the water contains silica, algae, and minerals that are good for the skin. Visitors can relax in the milky blue waters surrounded by volcanic landscapes, making it one of the best things to do in Iceland. It’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy a unique experience, offering relaxation and the chance to enjoy Iceland’s natural charm. Whether you want to relax or explore, the Blue Lagoon has something for everyone.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: Starts at 9,990 ISK (INR 6096.67) for adults (fees vary by ticket type and time of day)
Timings: 8 AM – 10 PM
Location: Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík
4. Complete The Golden Circle
Photo: CGP Grey / Wikimedia Commons
The Golden Circle is a well-known driving route in Iceland that passes through some of the country’s key natural attractions. The loop includes Thingvellir National Park, where Iceland’s parliament was founded, the erupting geysers at Geysir, and the impressive Gullfoss waterfall. The route is easy to drive and offers a chance to witness some of the best natural wonders, making it one of the best things to see in Iceland. Each stop on the Golden Circle reveals the beauty and power of Iceland’s landscapes, making this route a must-do for anyone visiting the country.
Ideal Duration: Full-day tour
Entry Fee: Free; fees apply at other attractions
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Location: Southwest Iceland
5. Go Whale Watching
Photo: Chris 73 / Wikimedia Commons
Whale watching in Iceland offers a chance to see some of the world’s most magnificent marine creatures up close. The country’s coastal waters are home to over 20 species of whales. Húsavík, the whale-watching capital of Iceland, is a popular starting point for tours. Visitors can spot whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural environment. The tours offer an exciting yet peaceful way to connect with nature while enjoying the views of Iceland’s coastline. Whale watching is one of the top things to see in Iceland, letting you experience the country’s wildlife and landscapes in a memorable way.
Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Entry Fee: Varies
Timings: Primarily available in summer; some tours run during other months
Location: Reykjavik, Húsavík, Akureyri
6. Discover Reykjavík
Photo: Kjell Jøran Hansen / Wikimedia Commons
Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital city, is a centre of culture, history, and modern life. The city is known for its charming mix of colourful buildings, lively streets, and vibrant art scene. Visitors can explore museums, galleries, and historical sites or simply enjoy a stroll around the harbour. Reykjavík also offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops that showcase local culture and cuisine. Whether you’re keen to learn about Iceland’s history, savour a meal, or relax in a cosy café, Reykjavík offers a welcoming experience for all who visit.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days
Entry Fee: Free to explore the city; museums and attractions have entry fees
Timings: Open year-round
Location: Southwest Iceland
7. Visit Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, standing 60 metres tall. This waterfall’s ability to walk behind it makes it unique, offering a different perspective of the water cascading into the pool below. The path around the waterfall allows visitors to get close and enjoy the view from behind the water curtain. The surrounding area is also quite scenic, with green fields and nearby volcanic landscapes. Seljalandsfoss is an easy stop along the south coast and offers a memorable experience for anyone visiting Iceland’s natural wonders.
Ideal Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: Year-round
Location: South coast of Iceland
8. Snorkelling In Silfra
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Silfra, located in Thingvellir National Park, is one of the world’s clearest dive sites, where you can snorkel or dive between two tectonic plates. The crystal-clear water offers visibility of over 100 metres, making it a unique experience for underwater enthusiasts. The site is a rift between the North American and Eurasian plates, allowing you to swim between two continents literally. The cold water is clean and pure, and the underwater landscape is fascinating. Whether you’re snorkelling or diving, this activity provides a rare chance to experience Iceland’s natural beauty entirely differently.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: Varies; guided tours available
Timings: Year-round
Location: Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
9. Hike Laugavegur Trail
Photo: Chmee2/Valtameri / Wikimedia Commons
The Laugavegur Trail is one of Iceland’s top hiking routes, offering a chance to explore the country’s varied landscapes. The trail takes you through volcanic deserts, green valleys, and colourful mountains. Along the way, you will pass geothermal areas and hot springs. The route is easy to follow and suitable for hikers of different experience levels. It provides an opportunity to connect with Iceland’s natural environment, enjoy wide views, and explore its unique wilderness. Hiking the Laugavegur Trail is a rewarding experience for anyone looking for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Entry Fee: Free; guided tours available
Timings: Late June to early September
Location: Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk
10. Explore Lava Caves
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Iceland is home to several fascinating lava caves formed by volcanic eruptions over time. One of the most famous lava caves is Raufarhólshellir, located near Reykjavík. This lava cave is known for its colourful interior and unique rock formations. These caves offer a chance to walk through tunnels and chambers shaped by flowing lava, providing insight into Iceland’s volcanic activity. Exploring lava caves allows visitors to connect with the country’s natural history and experience its geological wonders first-hand. The caves are accessible and offer a memorable experience for anyone interested in learning about Iceland’s volcanic past.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Varies; guided tours typically charge a fee
Timings: Year-round
Location: Near Reykjavík and other regions throughout Iceland
There are many amazing things to do in Iceland that will captivate anyone looking to explore this fascinating country. Whether it’s the magic of the Northern Lights or hiking through unique volcanic landscapes, Iceland offers experiences you won’t forget. From adventure to relaxation, you can find it all in Iceland. Book your trip with TripXL for an unforgettable journey across this stunning island.
Cover Photo: Jonatan Pie / Unsplash
