15 Best Things to Do in Iceland: Essential Icelandic Experiences
Make the most of your trip to Iceland by building your itinerary to include these 15 best things to do in Iceland.
Iceland is a land of unparalleled natural beauty with a landscape that ranges from volcanoes and glaciers to waterfalls and hot springs. There is no shortage of incredible Icelandic experiences to be had, whether it’s witnessing the Northern Lights dance across the sky, exploring the country’s many glaciers and ice caves, or soaking in a natural hot spring.
However, there are a few experiences that should be at the top of every traveler’s list when visiting Iceland. From driving the Ring Road to horseback riding, whale watching, and glacier hiking, these essential Iceland activities are a must-do for anyone seeking to fully immerse themselves in the country’s natural wonders and unique culture.
Let’s work on taking the challenge out of deciding what to do in Iceland. With this list, you can start building your itinerary with the top things to do in Iceland to ensure you see and do the best of Iceland – in even a short amount of time!
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1. Hike a Glacier
As you might expect by the name Iceland, there is a lot of ice to explore in the country! In fact, Iceland is one of the best destinations to explore glaciers as 11% of Iceland is covered in glaciers. With 269 named glaciers, you’ll have to get out and visit a couple.
To really experience the beautiful of Iceland, plan a glacier hike. This amazing activity takes you deep into the ice formations and caverns of some of the most unique parts of Iceland. One of the most popular glaciers to hike is located in Vatnajökull National Park at the Skaftafell nature reserve.
You’ll spend hours trekking on the largest and most voluminous glacier in Iceland while learning all about how glaciers are formed and the impact of global warming on them. To kick off the hike, you’ll be fitted with appropriate safety gear, including crampons, a safety harness, helmet, and ice pick. It’s the adventure of a lifetime!
Learn more about hiking on a glacier.
2. Explore the Golden Circle
The most famous thing to do in Iceland is drive the Golden Circle. This well known loop takes you through southwest Iceland to four of the best recognized natural sites around Reykjavik.
Marvel at Kerið Crater with its red volcanic slopes and the turquoise water of Lake Kerið. Admire the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, also known as “Golden Falls”, as it cascades glacial water down 105 feet (32 meters) into a deep canyon carved by the Hvítá River.
Stop at the Geysir Hot Spring Area, where you’ll see Strokkur Geysir spout water 100 feet (30 meters) into the air, every 8 minutes. Explore Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir), the UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can stand on the Bridge Between the Continents to admire the split gorge between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
This full day adventure tops the charts as the best day trip from Reykjavik. In fact, if you only have a few days in Iceland, you’ll want to add this to your itinerary. It gives you a solid feel for Iceland and its natural wonders in just one day.
Book a tour of the Golden Circle.
3. Relax in a Natural Hot Spring or the Blue Lagoon
Get in touch with the softer side of Iceland by visiting one of its 45+ natural hot springs. The hot springs in Iceland are naturally heated by the underground volcanic activity on the island. You can choose from wild and free hot springs to expensive, man made wonders.
The most famous of these hot springs, and a must see in Iceland, is the Blue Lagoon, located between the Reykjavik airport and the city. From Reykjavik you can take a day trip to enjoy these geothermal heated baths. They are said to have restorative qualities and other health benefits. Enjoy the in-water bar. Try the silica-mud masks. Admire the beautiful scenery of the surrounding lava field.
The next most popular hot spring in Iceland is the Myvatn Nature Baths in the north near Lake Myvatn. If you’re headed up north, this is also a must visit place in Iceland!
In addition to the many hot springs, you’ll also find over 200 swimming pools around the country – including many that are natural and outdoors. This is all due to the geothermal waters in Iceland being an integral part of life. You’ll find many locals also enjoying the hot springs and pools.
Learn more about visiting the famous Blue Lagoon.
Short on time? Combine the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and Kerid Volcanic Crater into a day trip! Check availability now.
4. Tour Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland and therefore also comes in as one of the top things to do in Iceland. Located on the southeastern coast of Iceland, this natural lake is neighbored by glaciers and filled with icebergs of all shapes and sizes.
Book a boat tour of the lagoon to get up close and personal with the icebergs. Wander along the shore to admire the unusual and stunning scenery. Watch the ice drift gracefully through the crystal-clear water and out to sea. You can even take a day trip to Jokulsarlon from Reykjavik!
The lagoon is surrounded by majestic glaciers and mountains, making for a truly awe-inspiring landscape. As one of Iceland’s most popular tourist destinations, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon offers a unique opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Iceland in all its glory.
Check tours for Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
5. Chase Waterfalls
Iceland is home to an estimated 10,000 waterfalls. As such, you’re likely to spot one or two even if you’re not trying. However, you’d miss out on some amazing sights and scenery if you didn’t go in search of a few of the more famous waterfalls in Iceland.
To find waterfalls, it’s helpful to know that “foss” is the Icelandic word for waterfall. Most of the names of waterfalls in Iceland include foss in them and if you look at a map, you’ll see that they are truly located all over Iceland.
Here are a few of the most famous waterfalls to visit.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: This “Golden waterfall” is considered the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland. Fortunately, it’s also one of the easiest to visit as it sits in the Golden Circle making it an easy day trip visit from Reykjavik.
- Dettifoss Waterfall: It’s the most powerful waterfall in Iceland – and one of the most powerful in all of Europe! Standing at just 45 meters tall, it is about 100 meters wide and sends an incredible amount of water cascading down.
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: If you’re exploring the South Coast of Iceland, you’ll want to stop to see Seljalandsfoss. This famous waterfall offers you the opportunity to walk behind it. Beware that you will get wet!
- Skogafoss Waterfall: While not the most incredible of the waterfalls in Iceland, Skogafoss is located at the trailhead of Fimmvorduhals Hike which takes you down a very scenic path past dozens of stunning waterfalls. Perfect for chasing waterfalls!
If you don’t have your own transportation, don’t worry as there are waterfall tours running directly from Reykjavik and most Golden Circle tours will take you past a couple of amazing falls!
Book a tour to see the most amazing waterfalls in Iceland!
6. Go Whale Watching
Another one of the most popular activities in Iceland is going whale watching. This is because Iceland is one of the best places in the world to spot a wide variety of whale species, including humpback, minke, and orca whales.
Depending how many days you have in Iceland will vary where you catch your whale watching tour from. There are many that depart from Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, while there are others that depart from the charming northern coastal town of Husavik, known as the whale watching capital of Iceland. If you can – head to Husavik to catch a tour.
No matter where you go whale watching in Iceland, you’ll have the opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The tours are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the whales and their behavior, making it quite likely to spot them.
Additionally, during your tour you’ll learn a wealth of information about the marine ecosystem in Iceland. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot other animals on your tour, like dolphins and seals or maybe even puffins!
Check out these amazing whale watching tours.
7. Snorkel between Continents
By far one of the most unique things to do in Iceland is to go snorkeling between continents in the Silfra fissure. This fissure is located in the Thingvellir National Park and is the place where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. It creates an underwater rift that is renowned for its incredible visibility and crystal-clear water.
Due to its unique nature, you may want to snorkel – or scuba dive – in this fissure. It is the only place in the world where you’ll be able to experience the sensation of floating between two continents while marveling at the vibrant colors and otherworldly rock formations. As an added bonus, the water is so clear that you can see up to 300+ feet (100 meters) in some places.
The tours are led by experienced guides who provide all the necessary equipment and ensure that you feel safe and comfortable throughout the excursion. If snorkeling is your thing, make sure to add this to your Icelandic itinerary, as it is one of the best places to snorkel in the world – and definitely the most unusual!
Learn about snorkeling between North America and Europe.
8. Experience Snaefellsnes Peninsula
If you’re a nature lover visiting Iceland, you’ll have to head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. Known as “Iceland in Miniature,” this peninsula offers a diverse range of landscapes and natural wonders.
Here you can explore the black sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur and Hellnar, where dramatic cliffs and towering rock formations meet the crashing waves of the Atlantic. Visit the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano, which inspired Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth”. Stop in charming fishing villages, like Arnarstapi and Stykkishólmur. Enjoy fresh seafood and immerse yourself in local culture.
Other notable sights on Snaefellsnes Peninsula include the famous Kirkjufell mountain, the most photographed mountain in Iceland, Kirkjufell waterfall, and the Vatnshellir lava cave. If you have just a few days in Reykjavik, plan a day trip to Snæfellsnes Peninsula to get a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty.
See Snaefellsnes Peninsula tours.
9. Drive the Ring Road
Do you have a week or two weeks in Iceland? You have time to drive the Icelandic Ring Road – one of the most famous drives in the world! This bucket list adventure in Iceland offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
The Ring Road is a 820 mile (1,322 km) circular route that encircles the entire island and showcases the diverse landscapes of Iceland. It is best done by renting a car or camper van in Iceland, but you can also do a Ring Road tour.
Highlights of the journey include the majestic waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, the geothermal wonderland of Geysir and the nearby Gullfoss waterfall, the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and Vik, and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where visitors can witness massive icebergs floating in a lagoon surrounded by glaciers.
Along the way, you can also pass through quaint Icelandic towns and villages, like Akureyri and Höfn, soak in natural hot springs, and witness the Northern Lights (during the winter months). The Ring Road is truly a journey of a lifetime and the best route through Iceland if you have the time!
See your options for Ring Road tours.
10. Admire the Westfjords
The Westfjords often rank as one of the best places to see in Iceland due to their rugged mountains, stunning fjords, and remote fishing villages. This region of Iceland is located in the northwest corner of the country, but it doesn’t always make it onto Iceland itineraries (but it should!) as it really requires 3 days or more to explore due to its remote location.
The rich natural beauty and unique Iceland experiences in the fjords are what make the Westfjords so popular, and it’s all offered without any crowds. Explore the dramatic cliffs and birdlife at the Látrabjarg bird cliffs, including puffins. Soak in natural hot springs away from the crowds. Take in the stunning views from the top of the Dynjandi waterfall.
You can also visit the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, where you can hike through untouched wilderness and observe Arctic foxes and other wildlife. The best part of visiting the Westfjords is it is a true escape from the crowds, offering a chance to experience Iceland’s raw and untouched nature.
With its unique and stunning landscapes, the Westfjords should be added to your Iceland trip if you have the time. It’s best explored by renting a car and going on your own, but there are a few options for tours. If you opt to rent a car, make sure you’re allowed to take it into the Westfjords!
See your tour options for the Westfjords.
Need a rental car? Check rates on Discover Cars. They’ll search over 500 rental providers to help you find a great rate on a vehicle!
11. See the Northern Lights
In winter, the top thing to see in Iceland is the Northern Lights! The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural light show that occur during the winter months, from late September to mid-April. Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness this phenomenon due to its location near the Arctic Circle and low levels of light pollution.
To see the Northern Lights, you can either take a guided tour to the best viewing spots or venture out on your own to hunt for the elusive lights. The Northern Lights appear as green, pink, and purple ribbons dancing across the sky, and the experience is truly otherworldly.
As the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, their appearance is completely unpredictable. If you have your heart set on seeing them, plan to visit in winter and spend several nights in Iceland to increase your chances.
Other ways to increase your odds include keeping an eye on the weather forecast and planning your location strategically. Clear skies and low levels of light pollution make the Northern Lights really pop. This means you’ll want a new moon and to get out to rural areas or national parks to decrease light pollution. All these things combined will give you the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland clearly.
Check for tours for the Northern Lights.
12. Explore an Ice Cave
Visiting Iceland in winter? You won’t want to miss the ultimate experience of exploring one of the amazing ice caves in Iceland. It’s your one and only chance to see the natural beauty of Iceland’s glaciers from within. Two of the most popular are the Katla Ice Cave near Vik and the ice cave near Vatnajokull Glacier.
During the winter months only, you can follow an experienced guide into the frozen heart of the glaciers, where you can witness the dazzling blue hues of the ice and explore the stunning ice formations. The ice caves are formed by melting water that carves out intricate tunnels and caverns in the glacier’s interior, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere.
The caves are constantly changing due to the movement of the glacier, making each visit a unique experience. You should not attempt to do this on your own as it can be very dangerous. By taking a tour, you’ll be given proper equipment and guidance to explore safely. Make sure to wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear, as the caves can be cold and slippery!
13. Seek Out Puffins
Seeing puffins in Iceland is like a right of passage. Iceland is home to one of the largest puffin populations in the world, with approximately 60% of the world’s Atlantic puffins breeding here during the summer months.
The best time to see puffins in Iceland is from May to August, when the birds are nesting on the cliffs around the country. The best places to find puffins in Iceland are the Westman Islands, Dyrhólaey, and the cliffs of Látrabjarg in the Westfjords.
These areas offer a chance to see these charismatic birds up close as they waddle around on the cliffs and dive into the water in search of fish. To find them, you’ll want to keep a careful watch on the cliffs as they can be sneaky.
If you don’t have transportation or want to make sure you see them, there are many tour operators offering guided tours to the best puffin-watching spots, like this day trip from Reykjavik to see puffins. Don’t miss this essential Iceland experience – it’s the best place in the world to see puffins!
Book a puffin sightseeing tour.
14. Climb a Volcano Crater
Iceland is known for its numerous volcanic craters, many of which are accessible for you to safely climb and explore. One of the most popular volcanic craters to climb is the crater of the Hverfjall volcano, located in the northern part of the country.
The Hverfjall crater is 3,000+ feet (1 km) in diameter and 460 feet (140 m) deep. You can hike up the side of the volcanic crater and around the rim for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding lava fields and nearby Lake Mývatn. While the hike to the top of the crater is steep and challenging, the reward is well worth the effort.
Other popular volcanic craters to climb in Iceland include the Eldfell volcano on the Westman Island of Heimaey and the Fagradalsfjall volcano or the Kerid crater near Reykjavik. No matter which one(s) you choose, this unforgettable Iceland adventure is a must!
Check out your volcanic crater tour options.
15. Go Horseback Riding
Looking for a unique way to explore the country’s natural beauty and connect with its culture? Try horseback riding in Iceland! There are awesome options for horseback riding from Reykjavik and Vik.
Icelandic horses are a unique breed, known for their sure-footedness, endurance, and gentle nature. They are an essential part of Iceland’s heritage and have played a vital role in its history for over a thousand years.
You can take guided horseback riding tours across Iceland’s rugged terrain, from the rolling hills and moss-covered lava fields to the stunning glaciers and waterfalls. Riding an Icelandic horse allows you to experience the country’s natural beauty in a unique and intimate way.
Most tour operators in Iceland offer riding tours that range from a few hours to several days and are suitable for riders of all skill levels. Choose a tour that best suits your preferences and interests and then enjoy seeing Iceland from a different perspective!
Learn more about horseback riding in Iceland.
Explore More of Iceland
If you were one of those wondering what there is to do in Iceland or what to see in Iceland, hopefully you have a clearer picture now. There are endless amazing things to do in Iceland!
Having explored the 15 best things to do in Iceland in more depth, it’s easy to see why Iceland deserves a spot on your bucket list! From the rugged landscapes of the Westfjords to the geothermal hot springs throughout the country, Iceland is a unique destination that has something to offer everyone.
Continue planning your Iceland bucket list with these other articles about Iceland:
- Renting a Camper Van in Iceland: All the Need to Know Facts
- 21 Things to Know about Driving in Iceland + Driving Tips
- The True Cost of a Trip to Iceland: A Budget Breakdown
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