Last fall, I went to Iceland with my family. Let me tell you that I cannot wait to go back. Iceland was one of those trips where I had absolutely no idea what to expect. For this particular trip, my mother did all the planning which made everything even more mysterious.
Let me start by saying Iceland is gorgeous. Like knock-your-socks-off-holy-cow kind of gorgeous. Even if you’re not a huge nature lover, I am willing to bet you will still find something to gush over. From the black sand beaches to the sparkling waterfalls to the majestic glaciers, there is really something for everyone in Iceland.
For our five-day trip, we stayed in a wonderful Airbnb right in Reykjavik. Reykjavik definitely gets my vote. Easy to navigate, safe, clean, charming- can’t really ask for anything else in a city. Everywhere you go you are surrounded by quaint town homes painted in reds, yellows and blues. Intermingled are shops, restaurants and various other sources of entertainment. Needless to say I cannot wait to get back to Iceland. With relatively inexpensive flights from the States I am hoping that it’s sooner rather than later.
There are so many things to do, I had a hard time narrowing it down to my favorite places to visit in Iceland. That being said, there are some definitely places you absolutely should check out when you visit.
1. Hallgrímskirkja
One of the most notable sights in Reykjavik, this church is also one of the tallest structures in the country. Take a look inside at it’s lovely interior, then take the elevator to the top for an amazing view of Reykjavik. Just make sure to dress warm- it is pretty windy up there and can get super cold.
2. Skogafoss
Skogafoss was the first waterfall we visited on our South Coast tour. It was definitely a great start as far as waterfalls go. You don’t realize the power in these falls until you get up close and personal with them. I would recommend bring a poncho for this one so you don’t have to spend the entire rest of your day in wet clothes. You can pretty much walk right up to this waterfall plus, if you’re up for some climbing, there’s an overlook you can access to get a better look at the falls.
3. Strokkur Geyser
I wasn’t entirely sold on checking out the Strokkur Geyser. You’ve seen one geyser you’ve seen them all, right? Not exactly. Strokkur Geyser is seriously cool. Every time the geyser erupts, it’s a lottery how high it’s going to go. The geyser erupts every 4-10 minutes so you don’t have long to wait between each cycle.
4. The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is probably the most well-known attraction in all of Iceland. We went in the evening and it was the perfect, relaxing end to a long day of sightseeing. You can read all about our trip to the Blue Lagoon here. I definitely recommend the upgraded ticket so you can try the extra face mask!
5. Sólheimajökull Glacier
If you’re not up for climbing a glacier, this is the next best thing. When you get to the Sólheimajökull Glacier site, you can actually take a walk out to the front of the glacier where you have some great views and can get awesome pictures. The walk isn’t too strenuous or anything so don’t worry too much if you’re not in tip top shape.
6. Þingvellir National Park
We took a Golden Circle Tour which helped us to see a lot of sights in one day. Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park is a great stop on the Golden Circle. Thingvellir has both historical and geographical significance to Iceland. Iceland’s first parliament meeting was held on the grounds of Thingvellir. What I personally think is the coolest thing about Thingvellir is that it happens to be the place where the Eurasian and the American tectonic plates drift apart and you’re able to walk in between them.
7.Kerið
When our tour guide first suggested that we visit a volcanic crater, I wasn’t really sure what to expect. In my mind I was envisioning a small hole in the ground. It turns out I was wrong. I guess you could call the Kerið a “hole in the ground” but it’s GIANT. Like unbelievably huge. It’s pretty awesome because you can walk all the around around the edge of the crater and not only look down in but out all around at the beautiful Iceland landscape. There are also stairs down into the crater so you can check out the view from down there too.
8. Seljalandsfoss
There are so many amazing waterfalls in Iceland that I could easily fill this list with them. Seljalandsfoss was awesome because you can actually climb up behind the waterfall. The climb to get behind the waterfall isn’t too bad, just slippery. If you decide to complete the entire loop, however, its a little daunting. Make sure you’re wearing sturdy shoes because there is a little bit of a climb at the end of the loop. I would also consider bringing a poncho with you because I got soaked.
9. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
I have never been ANYWHERE like Reynisfjara. The black sand, the crazy rock formations and the rough waves just makes it an awesome experience. I will say the beach was very cold and windy so be prepared. Also, don’t even think about going near the water. The waves are so dangerous and several people have drowned there after getting swept out to sea in the rough water.
10. Gullfoss
Surprise, it’s another waterfall! Gullfoss is the mother of all waterfalls. I was absolutely speechless when I turned the corner and got my first view of the waterfall. It’s so huge and powerful. You can walk all the way down to the edge of the falls. It’s amazing to see them up close and personal. Once again, it’s a little slippery and the walk back up is a little long and uphill. If you just take your time, I think you will be just fine. For a video of the waterfall check out my Instagram.
As you can see from the photos, Iceland is so incredibly beautiful. I would highly recommend planning a trip here because there really is something for everyone. Anything I forgot on the list? Make sure you mention it in the comments below!
