Where to Go in Iceland?

Iceland has so much to offer travelers who are wondering where to go in Iceland. The country has one of the lowest crime rates, a high adult literacy rate, more trees per capita than any other country in Europe, and the northern lights, also known as Aurora Borealis. Surprisingly, this country has vast landscapes and natural wonders, but it is not as popular as many other travel destinations and is still waiting to be discovered. 

This article will guide you through some of the amazing places in Iceland that you can explore based on your travel preferences. 

What is Iceland's Must-Visit? 

Iceland has a lot to offer to the travelers. While popular for northern lights tours, this place also has a few other places to go to. Let's find out where to go in Iceland to witness glaciers, waterfalls, northern lights, active volcanoes, and more. 

Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis 

Northern Lights, or the Auroras Borealis, is at the first position on our list. Iceland has the most beautiful sighting of this phenomenon because of its source of solar activity and geocentric areas, which are ideal for observing them more easily. The ideal months to visit are from September to March. You can look up the forecasted intensity yourself from the Meteorological Office to know which day to try to see them more clearly. 

Some of the places include Thingvellir National Park, Vik Village, and Raufarhofn. Choose a guided Northern Lights tour to reach out-of-the-way viewing spots and get useful photo advice while traveling. These tours give expert knowledge and the chance to see this breathtaking sight.  

Reykjavik City 

The capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik, is more than a gateway to the country’s natural wonders. You can visit cultural attractions like the Harpa Concert Hall, the interactive Saga Museum, and vibrant nightlife. In fact, Reykjavik is home to some of Iceland's must-see attractions. 

It’s also a starting point for many day trips, including the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and whale-watching tours in the North Atlantic. Reykjavik shows history, culture, and modernity, which makes it a perfect place to visit for those interested in both Icelandic history and contemporary life. 

Blue Lagoon 

Located in southwest Iceland, the geothermal spa is well known for its milky blue waters. It is also rich in minerals like silica and sulfur. This place is a short drive from Reykjavik city and is a part of Reykjanes Peninsula, offering a relaxing experience amid vast landscapes. If you have tired muscles, the lagoon's geothermal waters are what you truly need in Iceland. 

You can also choose to pair this location with a visit to active volcanic zones, making it a must-see attraction for those exploring south Iceland. 

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon 

Jokulsarlon is a glacial lake filled with icebergs that have calved from the Breioamerkurjokull glacier. It is known for its surreal beauty, with icebergs floating to the black sand beach known as Diamond Beach. This site is also a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its beauty in climate change and its mesmerizing landscapes. 

Gullfoss Waterfall 

Next on the list of where to go in Iceland is the most iconic waterfall, Gullfoss. The falls go through a rugged canyon, creating a beautiful sight. 

Located on the Golden Circle route, the waterfall is a short drive from Reykjavik. The waterfall’s massive water flow, especially in spring and summer, is a dramatic example of Iceland’s natural beauty. Here, you can also explore bubbling mud pools and nearby geysers. 

Thingvellir National Park 

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Thingvellir or þingvellir national park, has a huge importance in the history and geology of Iceland. 

This is the place where the ancient Icelandic Parliament was established. Also, the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet at this national park. The beautiful landscape offers rift valleys, lava fields, and clear lakes, which makes it a unique place to experience the history and natural beauty of Iceland simultaneously. 

Vatnajokull National Park 

This park is home to Europe’s largest glacier and offers diverse natural scenery with glaciers, volcanic zones, and glacial rivers. It is also a popular spot for hiking trails and ice caves, that provide you a close view of Iceland’s geothermal activity and natural landscapes. 

If you explore this park, you will witness Iceland’s landmass as it changes due to volcanic and glacial activity. 

Travel Safety Tips For Visiting Iceland 

Iceland is a beautiful country to visit. Whether you are going through Iceland's south coast or wandering through North Iceland, West Iceland, or East Iceland, there is a lot to explore in this country. However, there are certain travel trips that you need to take care of when planning your dream trip to Iceland. 

• You should be prepared for unpredictable weather. 

• As road conditions can be challenging in some parts of Iceland, make sure to drive safely and carry your international driving permit with you. 

• Maintain a safe distance when around the natural wonders, especially at the edge of the cliffs and around the powerful waterfalls. 

• Consider informing someone from your family about your itinerary and travel plans. 

• Buy travel insurance to save yourself from unforeseen conditions like trip delays, baggage loss, theft, collision damage waiver, emergency medical illness or evacuation, and more. 

• Consider paying respect to local laws and customs. 

FAQs 

1. Do you need a Visa to visit Iceland? 

No visa is required to enter Iceland for US citizens if you are traveling for less than 90 days, as per the US Department of State. However, you are required to have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure.[1] 

2. Do I need vaccinations to enter Iceland? 

Travelers do not need any special vaccinations to travel to Iceland; however, we ask that you consider obtaining a travel protection plan.  

At AXA Assistance USA Inc., we have travel protection that will help protect you while you travel within Iceland. Travel protection in the event of hospitalization, medical transfers, dental emergencies, doctors’ visits, and repatriation are among many of the benefits offered on these plans. 

3. When is the ideal time to travel to Iceland? 

It depends on what you want to see during your trip. Summer in Iceland consists of almost 24 hours of daylight. During the winter months, there are very few hours of daylight. The high season is considered to be from mid-June to August due to the longer days. 

October to April are considered to be low-season months because the climate is more extreme, the nights are very long, and the cold is quite strong. It is the ideal time for winter activities, including visiting glaciers and ice caves and seeing the auroras borealis! 

Don't forget to purchase your AXA travel protection so you can enjoy your holidays in every way.