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In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to create the perfect Iceland travel itinerary, including a detailed Iceland travel checklist to ensure you don’t miss any must-see spots. We’ve broken down the island by region, provided essential information on top destinations, things to do, and helpful tips to help you plan every step of your journey. And don’t miss our top recommendations!
We recently spent 1 week in Iceland during the winter and wanted to share our experience of this incredible island. So whether you’re checking off your travel wishlist or planning your bucket list destinations, this guide covers all the essential details for an incredible Iceland adventure!
★ = Must-Sees
Southwest Iceland
1. Reykjavik
Iceland’s capital city is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and art. It’s the perfect starting point for your Iceland adventure.
Visit Hallgrimskirkja Church, explore the Harpa Concert Hall, and enjoy the city’s thriving culinary scene.
Looking for affordable, central accommodation in Reykjavik? We stayed at CityHub, which offers pod style rooms, with shared bathrooms at amazing prices. Think of it like a hostel with hotel amenities!
HOW TO GET THERE: By bus or taxi from Keflavik Airport
TIME TO SPEND: 1-2 nights
PARKING: 200-600 ISK per hour (approx. €1.50-4 / £1-3.50 / $1.50-4)
2. Blue Lagoon
Located near Keflavík International Airport, the Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa. The lagoon’s milky-blue waters are rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, which are said to have healing properties for the skin.
If you visit the lagoon, tickets can be bought online and are sold by hour of entry. The basic admission ticket allows you to soak in its warm, mineral-rich waters, enjoy a silica mud mask, and sip on a refreshing drink from the in-lagoon bar.
For a more luxurious experience, you can purchase premium admission, with an extra drink or you can even add on a spa treatment. Dining at the on-site restaurant is also recommended as it offers spectacular views of the surrounding lava fields.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car or bus from Reykjavik (1 hour)
TIME TO SPEND: 2-3 hours
ENTRY: 12,000 ISK (approx. €85/ £70 / $80)
FACILITIES: Changing facilities with showers, spa, hotel and restaurant
PARKING: Free
3. Gullfoss Waterfall
Part of the Golden Circle route, Gullfoss is a two-tiered waterfall that’s nothing short of breathtaking. Known as the “Golden Falls,” it is fed by the Hvita River and plunges into a rugged canyon. The waterfall’s name comes from the golden hue of its waters, especially in sunlight.
Marvel at the roaring falls from viewing platforms and learn about the historical efforts to preserve this natural wonder. If you’re lucky you may even see the rainbow that often forms above the falls on sunny days!
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Reykjavik (approx. 2 hours)
TIME TO SPEND: 1 hour
FACILITIES: Toilets, shop and cafe
PARKING: Free
4. Thingvellir National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, making it a unique geological wonder. Thingvellir also holds historical significance as the site of Iceland’s first parliament, established in 930 AD.
Highlights include the walk along the Almannagja fissure, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra Fissure, and explore the park’s rich history.
There are a few places to park here, so depending on what you want to see, try and aim for the right car park, as they are a fair distance away from each other. P1 is the best if you want to see the fissure and/or go snorkeling.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Reykjavik (45 minutes)
TIME TO SPEND: 2-3 hours
FACILITIES: Toilets, exhibition, cafe, visitor centre (P1)
PARKING: 1000 ISK (approx. €7 / £6 / $7.50)
5. Geysir Hot Springs
The Geysir geothermal area in the Haukadalur Valley is home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 metres high. The original Geysir, from which all geysers derive their name, is largely dormant but remains a fascinating historical site.
Wander through the geothermal fields to see bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, and be sure to capture the mesmerising eruptions of Strokkur on camera.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Reykjavik (1.5 hours)
TIME TO SPEND: 1 hour
FACILITIES: Toilets and nearby restaurant
PARKING: 800 ISK (approx. €5.50 / £4.50 / $6)
6. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall ★
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most unique waterfalls, as you can walk behind the cascade. The waterfall drops 60 meters from a cliff, creating a curtain of water that’s especially beautiful during sunset.
Wear waterproof gear and take the trail behind the waterfall for a one-of-a-kind view. During winter, the area becomes a frozen wonderland, adding to its charm.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Reykjavik (2 hours) or from Vik (1 hour)
TIME TO SPEND: 1-2 hours
FACILITIES: Toilets and a small shop
PARKING: 800 ISK (approx. €5.50 / £4.50 / $6)
7. Skogafoss Waterfall
If you hadn’t realised yet, ‘foss’ means waterfall in Icelandic! Skogafoss is one of Iceland’s largest waterfalls, plunging 60 metres and spanning 25 metres in width. Legend has it that a Viking settler hid treasure behind the falls!
Climb the staircase (500 steps!) to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, or stay below to feel the powerful spray of the falls.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Reykjavik (2.5 hours) or from Vik (30 minutes)
TIME TO SPEND: 1-2 hours. Give yourself about 1 hour if you want to walk to the top.
FACILITIES: Toilets (not nice) and there is a hotel with a nice restaurant
PARKING: Free
South Iceland
8. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Famed for its volcanic black sands and basalt columns, Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s most dramatic beaches. The Reynisdrangar sea stacks just offshore add to its mystique.
Walk along the shore to marvel at the basalt formations and be cautious of the powerful waves, known as sneaker waves. Check the signs, which will tell you how close you can get to the water on the day. Make sure you follow all guidance as there have been fatalities at this beach in the past.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Vik (15 minutes)
TIME TO SPEND: 1 hour
FACILITIES: Toilets and cafe
PARKING: 1000 ISK (approx. €7 / £6 / $7.50)
9. Vik i Myrdal Church
Perched on a hill overlooking the village of Vík, this charming red-roofed church offers some of the best views of the South Coast.
Visit for the serene atmosphere and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
HOW TO GET THERE: Walking from Vik centre (15 minutes)
TIME TO SPEND: 30 minutes
FACILITIES: None
PARKING: Free in Vik centre
10. Fjadrargljufar Canyon ★
This ancient canyon, formed during the Ice Age, is a geological masterpiece with steep walls and a winding river below. Hike along the rim for breathtaking views and explore the lush greenery that lines the canyon floor.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Vik (1 hour)
TIME TO SPEND: 1-2 hours
FACILITIES: Toilets
PARKING: 1000 ISK (approx. €7 / £6 / $7.50)
11. Raudaskal
Raudaskal, located in the southern highlands of Iceland near Hekla volcano, is a lesser-known natural gem that deserves a place on any Iceland travel checklist. This large volcanic crater, whose name translates to “Red Bowl,” boasts vibrant red and orange tones that contrast strikingly with the surrounding green moss and black lava fields.
Rauðaskál offers stunning panoramic views of the Icelandic highlands, with Hekla looming on the horizon. Its vividly colored slopes are the result of iron oxidation in the volcanic rock, giving the crater its signature red hues.
It’s an easy 1 hour hike (220m ascent) around the rim for breathtaking vistas or you can venture into the bowl-like depression for a closer look at its unique textures and formations.
HOW TO GET THERE: You can only access Rauðaskál by F road, so if you’ve rented a car or van, make sure your rental company allows you to drive on them
TIME TO SPEND: 1-2 hours
FACILITIES: None
PARKING: Free parking at the base of the crater.
Southeast Iceland
12. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Jokulsarlon is one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. This glacier lagoon is formed by the melting Breidamerkurjokull Glacier and is filled with icebergs that drift toward the ocean. The lagoon has been featured in several films, including James Bond movies.
It’s not required to take a tour but you can take a boat tour to get up close to the icebergs, and even have the chance to see seals. If you’re not keen on taking a boat ride then you are free to wander around the lake. Along the way you might even spot a native bird or two.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Vik (2.5 hours)
TIME TO SPEND: 1-2 hours
FACILITIES: Toilets near the boat tour companies
PARKING: 1000 ISK (approx. €7 / £6 / $7.50)
13. Diamond Beach ★
Just across the road from Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach gets its name from the sparkling ice chunks scattered across its black sands. These icebergs, broken off from the nearby glacier, create a striking contrast against the volcanic sands.
Stroll along the beach to admire the glittering ice formations, which change in shape and size throughout the day. This is a photographer’s paradise, offering endless opportunities for stunning shots.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Vik (2.5 hours). If you’re visiting Jökulsárlón then you can just walk over from there to the beach.
TIME TO SPEND: 1 hour
FACILITIES: Toilets near the Jökulsárlón boat tour companies
PARKING: 1000 ISK (approx. €7 / £6 / $7.50)
14. Myvatn Nature Baths
Often referred to as the “Blue Lagoon of the North,” these nature baths offer a more serene and less crowded experience. Even though there is a slight smell of sulphur, you can still relax in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Akureyri (1.5 hours)
TIME TO SPEND: 2-3 hours
ENTRY: 7,400 ISK (approx. €55 / £40 / $50)
FACILITIES: Changing facilities and cafe
PARKING: Free
15. Dettifoss Waterfall
Dettifoss is Europe’s most powerful waterfall, with a drop of 44 metres and a width of 100 metres. Its thundering roar is unforgettable.
The east-side trail is best for closer views, but can be steep. For broader views consider the west-side trail. Both take about 10 minutes to complete.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Akureyri (2 hours)
TIME TO SPEND: 1 hour
FACILITIES: Toilets
PARKING: 800 ISK (approx. €5.50 / £4.50 / $6)
North Iceland
16. Akureyri
Known as the “Capital of the North,” Akureyri is a charming city with vibrant cultural attractions. Its location by the Eyjafjörður fjord offers stunning views.
Highlights include the botanical gardens, local museums, and whale-watching tours.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Reykjavik (5 hours)
TIME TO SPEND: 1 night
PARKING: Approx. 200 ISK per hour (approx. €1.50 / £1 / $1.50)
17. Forest Lagoon
Nestled in the lush birch forests of North Iceland, the Forest Lagoon is one of Iceland’s newest and most serene geothermal spas. Located just outside Akureyri, this spa offers visitors a peaceful retreat with stunning views of Eyjafjörður fjord.
Relax in the infinity pools while gazing out at the fjord and the surrounding mountains. The spa also features a sauna and a cold plunge pool for those looking to practice the Nordic tradition of hot-and-cold therapy. Enjoy a refreshing drink or snack at the lagoon’s bar, which offers poolside service through a wristband that you settle up before you leave.
HOW TO GET THERE: 5 minute drive from Akureyri centre
TIME TO SPEND: 2-3 hours
ENTRY: Starting at 5,900 ISK (approx. €39 / £34 / $42) for standard admission
FACILITIES: Changing facilities and bar/cafe
PARKING: Free
East Iceland
18. Studlagil ★
Studlagil Canyon, located in East Iceland, is a hidden gem known for its striking basalt columns and turquoise river. Formed over thousands of years, the canyon was revealed when the Karahnjukar hydroelectric plant altered the flow of the Jokulsa a Dal river, lowering its water level.
Hike to the canyon for breathtaking views, and take in the unique contrast of the basalt cliffs against the vibrant blue waters. This lesser-known spot is a photographer’s dream and a tranquil retreat for nature lovers.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Akureyri (3 hours)
TIME TO SPEND: 1 hour
FACILITIES: Very well kept toilets despite its isolation
PARKING: 1000 ISK (approx. €7 / £6 / $7.50)
West Iceland
19. Kirkjufell Mountain
This uniquely shaped mountain, often referred to as the “most photographed mountain in Iceland,” is a must-see. Also famous for appearing on the famous HBO show, Game of Thrones!
Capture the iconic view of the mountain with nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall in the foreground. It’s also possible to hike up the mountain. Give yourself about 1.5 hours to reach the top.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Reykjavik (2.5 hours)
TIME TO SPEND: 1 hour (more if you’re hiking to the top)
FACILITIES: None
PARKING: 1000 ISK (approx. €7 / £6 / $7.50)
20. Snæfellsjokull National Park
A little off the beaten path, this national park is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. With one road taking you around the park, you can make many stops along the way. Djupalonssandur beach, Holaholar crater, Svortuloft Lighthouse are all highly recommended things to do.
HOW TO GET THERE: By car from Reykjavik (3 hours)
TIME TO SPEND: 3-4 hours
FACILITIES: 2 visitor centres with toilets and a cafe
Iceland’s raw beauty is unparalleled, making it one of the ultimate travel destinations bucket lists. With this Iceland travel list, you’ll have everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s chasing waterfalls, soaking in hot springs, or exploring glaciers, Iceland has it all. Start crafting your Iceland travel itinerary and let the adventure begin!
