Updated 06/11/2024
Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice,” is a destination like no other. Known for its dramatic landscapes, geysers, hot springs, volcanoes, and glaciers, Iceland offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the bustling capital, Reykjavik, or the remote highlands, visiting Iceland is an unforgettable experience.
Where To Stay:
TUI offer a great selection of packages to choose from, most including 2 excursions within the price! TUI Holidays to Iceland
Fosshotel Raudara: A cosy stay just minutes from Reykjavik’s main attractions. Expect comfortable rooms, friendly service and an ideal spot for city exploring. Fosshotel Raudara with TUI
Reykjavik Lights by Keahotels: Stylish, Scandinavian-inspired rooms with stunning mountain views, this hotel celebrates Icelandic light and nature. Perfect for an authentic Icelandic experience. Reykjavik Lights by Keahotels with TUI
Borg by Keahotels: Elegant Art Deco hotel in Reykjavik’s heart, offering a touch of classic luxury. It’s ideal for travellers seeking comfort, history and sophistication. Borg by Keahotels with TUI
Reykjavik: The Heart of Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital and largest city, is a vibrant cultural hub. Despite its small size, it boasts a vast array of museums, galleries, and music venues. The striking Hallgrimskirkja church, with its unique design inspired by Icelandic basalt columns, dominates the skyline. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.
The Harpa Concert Hall, with its glass façade reflecting the sea, is another architectural marvel. It hosts concerts, cultural events, and offers a glimpse into Iceland’s contemporary artistic scene. For history enthusiasts, the National Museum of Iceland provides a comprehensive overview of the country’s history, from Viking settlements to modern times.
A stroll along Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street, reveals a mix of boutiques, cosy cafes and amazing street art. The city’s nightlife, especially its vibrant music scene, is well worth exploring, with numerous bars and clubs offering live performances.
The Golden Circle
One of the most popular tourist routes in Iceland is the Golden Circle, which includes three major sites: Thingvellir National Park, Geyser Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. Golden Circle with Kerid Volcanic Crater Day Trip on Viator
Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a geological wonder where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet.
The Geyser Geothermal Area is home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water up to 30 meters into the air. The area is dotted with bubbling hot springs and fumaroles, providing a fascinating glimpse into the geothermal activity beneath the earth’s surface.
Gullfoss, or the “Golden Falls” is a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall that cascades into a deep canyon. The sheer power and beauty of this waterfall make it one of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions.
The Blue Lagoon and Geothermal Baths
No visit to Iceland is complete without experiencing its geothermal baths. The Blue Lagoon, located in a lava field in the Reykjanes Peninsula, is perhaps the most famous. Its milky-blue waters, rich in minerals like silica and sulfur are reputed to have healing properties. Visitors can relax in the warm waters while enjoying the surreal landscape that surrounds them. Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket with Optional Transfer on Viator
For a more authentic experience, the Myvatn Nature Baths in North Iceland offer similar benefits with fewer crowds. The Secret Lagoon in Fludir and the geothermal pools in the Westfjords also provide tranquil settings to soak and unwind.
Volcanoes and Glaciers
Iceland’s volcanic activity is evident throughout the country. The Eyjafjallajökull volcano, which famously erupted in 2010, can be explored through guided tours. Nearby, the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls offer stunning views and photo opportunities.
Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, is a must-visit for glacier enthusiasts. The park offers glacier hiking, ice climbing and ice cave tours. The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, with its floating icebergs and resident seals, is one of the most picturesque spots in Iceland. Visitors can take boat tours to get up close to the icebergs and the glacier itself.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. From September to April, the dark skies provide the perfect backdrop for this natural light show. There are many tours available that take visitors to optimal viewing locations, away from the city lights. The sight of the shimmering lights dancing across the sky is a magical experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. When booking a package holiday, a Northern Lights tour is usually provided! Northern Lights Midnight Adventure on Viator
The Ring Road and Beyond
Iceland’s Ring Road, or Route 1, navigates the island and provides access to many of its natural wonders. The South Coast, with its black sand beaches like Reynisfjara, is particularly popular. The cliffs and sea stacks here are a haven for birdlife, including puffins. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & South Coast Day Tour on Viator
In the East Fjords, the dramatic fjord landscape is dotted with charming fishing villages. Seydisfjordur, with its colorful wooden houses and vibrant arts scene, is a highlight. The town of Egilsstaðir serves as a gateway to the rugged highlands and the serene beauty of Lake Lagarfljot.
North Iceland offers a mix of waterfalls, like the powerful Dettifoss, and geothermal areas such as Hverir, known for its boiling mud pots and steam vents. The town of Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, is a cultural hub with museums, botanical gardens and a lively music scene.
The Westfjords, one of the most remote and least visited regions, is a paradise for nature lovers. Here, you can find the stunning Dynjandi waterfall and the dramatic cliffs of Látrabjarg, home to millions of seabirds.
Experiences:
Exploring Iceland’s stunning landscapes and natural wonders is a must on any visit, and these tours capture the magic of this unique island beautifully.
Take the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon Tour to see Iceland’s highlights, from the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall to the bubbling geysers of the Golden Circle, finishing with a soak in the soothing Blue Lagoon waters. It’s the perfect way to combine sightseeing with relaxation. Golden Circle, Volcano Crater and Blue Lagoon Tour on Viator
At the Sky Lagoon Experience, unwind in a geothermal infinity pool with views over the North Atlantic, followed by the Sky Lagoon’s seven-step spa ritual. It’s Icelandic luxury at its best, offering relaxation in a breathtaking, modern space. Sky Lagoon Tour on Viator
For nature lovers, the Whale Watching Tour is thrilling. Head out to sea to spot majestic whales, playful dolphins and more. An ideal way to encounter Iceland’s wildlife, all just minutes from Reykjavik’s city centre. Whale Watching Tour on Viator
And if adventure calls, the Silfra Snorkeling Tour offers an underwater experience like no other. Dive between tectonic plates in crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable look at one of the world’s most unique ecosystems, right in the heart of Iceland’s Þingvellir National Park .Silfra Snorkeling Tour on Viator
Top tips:
What To Pack: Iceland is notorious for having ever-changing weather so pack accordingly for this. Don’t forget a swimsuit to spend time in the hot springs and pools!
Transport: If you hire a car in the winter periods ensure to check the road conditions before starting on your next adventure. A lot of the more remote roads at that time of year are closed due to being impassible due to ice.
Tipping: Tipping is not necessary and is not expected in Iceland. The prices charged reflect what you would have left as a tip. However, if it will not be offensive if you do decide to leave a tip.
Visiting Iceland is a journey into a land of unparalleled natural beauty and adventure. From the vibrant culture of Reykjavik to the serene landscapes of the Ring Road, Iceland offers a diverse array of experiences. Whether you’re soaking in geothermal baths, exploring glaciers, chasing the Northern Lights, or marvelling at waterfalls and volcanoes, Iceland captivates with its raw and rugged charm. This island nation, with its rich history and stunning scenery, promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveller.
