8 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

Is Iceland on your bucket list? It should be your next destination if you love hot springs, natural wonders, and beautiful waterfalls. This country is brimming with the natural beauty of its Icelandic nature.

It's a perfect place for a road trip where you can spend plenty of time immersed in the stunning landscapes. You can even enjoy a unique whale-watching experience!

To help you create your itinerary, we've compiled some of Iceland's best places to visit.

First on our list is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thingvellir National Park. This park, located just east of Reykjavík, is of great historical importance. In the open air, Iceland's parliament, the Althing, met from the 10th to the 18th centuries. You can still see the remains of old stone shelters and the Thingvellir Church standing proudly on this historic ground.

The park also offers an exciting discovery of tectonic plates. It is situated in a valley where two tectonic plates separate, forming rocky cliffs and large faults like the Almannagjá. This stunning landscape is a testament to the raw power of nature.

Nearby, you'll find Gullfoss, one of the biggest waterfalls in Europe, where the water cascades dramatically into a deep gorge. Thingvellir National Park's beautiful landscapes will surely highlight your visit to Iceland.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes Peninsula. It's not just home to Keflavik International Airport but also to the famed Blue Lagoon.

A major attraction of Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa in a volcanic landscape. The warm, milky-blue waters of the lagoon are a stark contrast to the surrounding dark lava fields and provide a unique, soothing experience.

Moving south, you'll find the Gunnuhver area, famed for its active mud pools and steam vents, showcasing the raw geothermal energy beneath the surface. The entire peninsula is perfect for a day trip and offers an added perk if you're into stargazing. Low-light pollution makes it an ideal place for catching the Northern Lights!

An Antarctica-looking spectacle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is truly a sight to behold. Visiting it is one of the best things to do in Iceland, offering an unforgettable landscape of mountains and glaciers.

It sits at the foot of Breiðamerkurjökull, the country's largest glacier. The lagoon's icy waters flow through a short waterway into the Atlantic Ocean, leaving chunks of ice on black sand beaches known as Diamond Beach.

In the winter, the fish-filled lagoon becomes a playground for hundreds of seals.

Next will be the mind-blowing Langjökull Glacier. It wins the title of the second-largest ice cap in Iceland, right after Vatnajökull.

Langjökull Glacier lies in the grand Highlands of Iceland, nestled in the western part of the country's interior. This glacier comes into clear view when standing in Haukadalur. It's one of Iceland's amazing attractions, offering adventure-filled activities like glacier hiking and snowmobile tours.

As you traverse the icy surface, you'll be awestruck by the glacier tongues extending from the main ice cap, a testament to nature's ever-changing and powerful forces.

If you are into exploring untouched wilderness, Vatnajökull National Park is just the place for you. This enormous nature reserve, centered around Vatnajökull glacier - the biggest in Europe, is one of Iceland's gems and the perfect spot for outdoor activities.

You can enjoy traditional outdoor recreational activities like hiking the scenic trails, driving through the majestic landscapes, camping under the star-studded sky, and bird watching.

The park is home to Iceland's highest mountains, deepest valleys, and famous glacial lagoons. The shimmering icebergs of these lagoons along the south coast are one of the park's biggest draws.

A trip to Vatnajökull National Park lets you witness the stunning beauty of the glacier and the power of nature up close. No visit to Iceland is complete without experiencing the breathtaking wilderness of Vatnajökull National Park.

Located in the West, Snæfellsnes Peninsula is like a mini version of the entire island. A journey around the peninsula will reveal various natural wonders, from the stunning coastline dotted with charming fishing villages to dramatic cliffs and impressive waterfalls.

The highlight of this region is the Snæfellsjökull National Park, a breathtaking area dominated by the Snæfellsjökull Volcano. Towering mightily, the volcano is capped by a glacier that glistens under the Icelandic sun.

A hike through the park will take you through diverse terrains, from the lava fields that tell stories of the island's fiery past to the black-pebble Djúpalónssandur Beach, an otherworldly shoreline that will leave you spellbound.

These lava fields are also home to impressive basalt columns, a geological marvel that showcases the artistic side of nature. Don't forget to visit Stykkishólmur, a quaint fishing village where the 19th-century Norwegian House is a testament to the region's history.

This wood-framed house now serves as a regional museum, offering insight into the villagers' past lives. It also has a craft shop where you can buy handmade souvenirs that capture the spirit of West Iceland.

Moving forward, our journey takes us to another gem of Iceland, Seljalandsfoss. While the Gullfoss waterfall is hailed as one of the most powerful in Europe, Seljalandsfoss holds a different title: the most beautiful. It gracefully cascades from a tall cliff, its crystal clear waters shimmering in the sunlight.

What sets Seljalandsfoss apart is that you can walk behind the waterfall and see the world through a curtain of falling water. The view is simply mesmerizing. This enchanting sight is why Seljalandsfoss is often featured on lists of top things to do in Iceland.

Akureyri, a town in North Iceland, is a must-visit. Known as the 'Capital of North Iceland,' this charming town is a gateway to many natural wonders in the region. One of the best-known attractions nearby is the Lake Mývatn area, part of the Diamond Circle route.

The lake, formed by a volcanic eruption, is home to diverse bird species and stunning geological formations. Traveling further along the Diamond Circle, you'll reach Húsavík, often called the 'Whale Capital of Iceland.' This small town is famous for its whale-watching tours.

You'll have a chance to see blue whales, the largest animals on earth, in their natural habitat. And don't forget to visit the Húsavík Whale Museum, where you can learn more about these majestic creatures.

If you want to have your trip to Iceland timed perfectly, consider visiting between September and March. This is the best time to visit Iceland and witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky.

Alternatively, if you're more inclined towards summer adventures like hiking, whale watching, or exploring the midnight sun, plan your visit between June and August. These periods offer ideal conditions for experiencing Iceland's diverse landscapes and unique natural phenomena, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling journey.

Whether you prefer winter's ethereal glow or summer's vibrant energy, Iceland promises a captivating experience year-round.

Many tourists explore by driving in Iceland, but preparing for the challenging conditions is important, especially in winter or rural areas.

Roads can be narrow and winding, and visibility may be limited, with the weather changing rapidly, bringing rain, snow, fog, or high winds. It's essential to check weather and road conditions before embarking on a journey.

Renting a car is a great option if you want the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Just ensure you carry your international driving license in Iceland, as the government requires it. Being well-prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable driving experience amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.

Before we end this guide, here are some tips that will help you make the most out of your Iceland adventure:

• Dress for the weather: Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. It's essential to dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing.
• Be respectful of nature: Iceland is known for its pristine natural beauty. Keeping it that way is crucial by following Leave No Trace principles.
• Try local cuisine: Take advantage of the opportunity to try traditional Icelandic dishes like lamb soup, Skyr, and plokkfiskur.
• Be aware of road conditions: If you plan on driving in Iceland, check road conditions beforehand and have a 4x4 vehicle if traveling off the beaten path.
• Don't forget your camera: Iceland is full of breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences, so make sure to capture those memories with your camera.

Iceland is like a new world waiting to be explored. With its diverse landscape, rich history, and friendly locals, this country is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure. Don't forget to familiarize yourself with the things to know before traveling to Iceland, it can greatly enhance your trip.

Whether chasing the Northern Lights or immersing yourself in the untouched wilderness, Iceland will leave you spellbound and wanting more.