Are you planning a trip to Iceland? Then you’re in for a treat! From breathtaking views of glaciers, geysers and waterfalls to captivating wildlife, there’s something new to discover around every corner. In this article, we’ll cover the top 15 places you should visit in Iceland and the best things to do while you’re there. So get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice
There are few places on Earth as unique and breathtaking as Iceland. From its otherworldly landscapes to its rich culture and history, Iceland has something for everyone.
One of the best things about Iceland is that it is a truly diverse country. You can find everything from towering glaciers to active volcanoes, bubbling hot springs to rushing waterfalls. And no matter where you go in Iceland, you’re sure to be amazed by the natural beauty.
Iceland is also home to some of the best hiking and camping in Europe. With its many trails and parks, there’s no shortage of places to explore. And if you’re looking for a challenge, you can even hike to the top of one of Iceland’s many glaciers.
For those interested in culture, there’s plenty to see and do in Iceland as well. From museums and galleries to historic sites and monuments, there’s no shortage of things to learn about Icelandic culture.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to love in Iceland. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Geysirs
A geyser is a hot spring where water erupts periodically. The word “geyser” comes from the Icelandic word “geysa”, which means “to gush”. Geysers are found all over Iceland, but the most famous one is Strokkur (meaning “churn”), which is located in the Haukadalur valley in the Golden Circle area. Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 metres (100 feet) into the air. Another notable geyser in Iceland is Geysir (meaning “gusher”), which is the namesake of all geysers. Geysir used to be one of the most active geysers in the world, erupting every few minutes, but it has been inactive for many years now. However, there is another geyser next to it called Stokkur, which more than makes up for its absence!
What is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions. It is a large, man-made lagoon that is filled with geothermal water. The water is said to have healing properties and people come from all over the world to bathe in it. The lagoon is surrounded by a lava field and has a spectacular view of the nearby mountains.
Hverir or ‘The Hot Springs’
Few places on Earth offer such a unique and otherworldly landscape as Iceland. From the lava fields to the glaciers, this country is full of natural wonders waiting to be explored. And one of the best places to start your Icelandic adventure is at Hverir.
Also known as the ‘hot springs’, Hverir is a geothermal area located in the north of Iceland. Here you’ll find steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and colorful mineral deposits. It’s an amazing place to see firsthand how powerful and active our planet can be.
But Hverir is more than just a pretty sight – it also has a fascinating history. This area was once used by Vikings as a source of heat and energy for their homes. These days, it’s a popular spot for tourists looking to experience something truly unique.
So whether you’re interested in exploring Iceland’s natural beauty or its rich history, make sure to add Hverir to your list of places to visit!
Golden Circle Tour
1. Golden Circle Tour
The Golden Circle is one of the most popular tourist routes in Iceland. It takes you through some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes, including the geothermal area around Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.
This tour is a great way to get a taste of what Iceland has to offer, and it can be done in a day if you’re short on time. There are many companies that offer Golden Circle tours, so just do your research and pick one that suits your needs.
Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of the most incredible natural phenomena in the world. And there’s nowhere better to see them than in Iceland.
In Iceland, the best time to see the Northern Lights is from September to April. However, they can be seen all year round if you’re willing to brave the cold winter nights.
There are many different ways to experience the Northern Lights in Iceland. You can go on a guided tour, take a dip in the Blue Lagoon, or even just stay up all night and hope for a clear sky.
No matter how you choose to experience them, the Northern Lights are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland’s top tourist attractions. The lagoon is located in the south east of the country, at the edge of Vatnajökull National Park. It is a popular spot for photography, sightseeing and glacier walking.
The lagoon was formed by melting glaciers, and is fed by two rivers. It is around 18 kilometers long and up to 250 meters deep. The water in the lagoon is very cold, with an average temperature of just 2 degrees Celsius.
There are many icebergs floating in the lagoon, which have calved off from the surrounding glaciers. These glaciers include Breiðamerkurjökull, Eyjafjallajökull and Svínafellsjökull. The icebergs vary in size, but can be up to 20 meters tall.
The best time to visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is between June and August, when the weather is warmer and there is more daylight hours. However, it can be busy during this time so it’s worth booking your tour or activity in advance.
Reykjavik: The Capital City
Reykjavik is the capital and largest city of Iceland. It is located in the southwest of the country on the shores of Faxaflói Bay. With a population of around 128,000, it is by far the most populous city in Iceland. Reykjavik is a popular tourist destination for its many attractions such as the Perlan, Hallgrímskirkja, Tjörnin, and Laugardalur Park. The city is also home to a number of museums and art galleries, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene.
A Few More Things to Do in Iceland
1. Reykjavik
2. Thingvellir National Park
3. Vatnajökull National Park
4. Geysir
5. Hvítárvatn
6. Jökulsárlón
7. Akureyri
8. Vestmannaeyjar
9. Reykjanes Peninsula
10. Hveragerði