Icelandic culture, history and location makes it an ideal place for a vacation. If you have ever been on a photography trip to Iceland – or planning your trip to the Land of Ice – we wanted to know what excites you most about the country!
We are therefore asked for your help in selecting the 5 locations every traveler should visit while in Iceland, for example museums, viewpoints and other tourist hot spots.
From all the answers we created the ultimate top 5 list, these are the top places to check out in Iceland.
Best Places to visit in Iceland
To give you a head start in selecting your top 5 places, we have begun the selection of our own!
1. Reykjavik, Whale Watching
The main attraction of Reykjavik is the whale watching tours that depart from the harbor daily during summer. Seabirds, including puffins and gannets are also present.
In wintertime there are also great fishing opportunities, and the boat tours to see the Northern Lights. The majestic mountains and glaciers make Reykjavik one of the most beautiful places to visit in Iceland.
Reykjavik is your gateway to adventures involving Iceland’s Northern Lights. With aurora forecasts as your guide and breathtaking views as your inspiration, chase the Northern Lights in Jökulsárlón, as mentioned in this article, Kirkjufell, or Þingvellir. From the best places to expert tips, discover more about the Northern Lights here.
2. Grindavík, Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is the hottest tourist attraction in Iceland. The spa has become a common stop for tour buses on their way to Reykjavík and beyond. The water temperature is between 37-39° C (98-102° F), which makes it seem even hotter due to the contrast with the ambient air of the Icelandic nature.
The water is rich in minerals and a natural source of health.
The Blue Lagoon consists of several pools, one of which is kept at 38° C (100° F), the other at 39°C (102.2°F), these are said to have healing properties. There is also a steam bath and an area with mud-pack treatments. In addition there is a skin-care salon and a small café.
3. Landmannalaugar, Mountains
The area is well known for its beautiful scenery, and was used as a location in the film “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” by Ben Stiller. It is also famous because it’s where you can find one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders; The multicolored rhyolite mountains.
Landmannalaugar also has some small and basic huts that can serve as accommodation, or campsites if you happen to have a tent with you. The area is ideal for hiking, but extreme caution should be taken when hiking the demanding trails such as Laugavegur trail since they cross through active areas of boiling mud and dangerous terrain.
4. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
One of the best places to visit in Iceland is Jökulsárlón, a lagoon by the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its spectacular views and deep blue icebergs. The ice tongue that extends into the sea has grown quite fast over recent years, it is now about 10 km long (6 miles), but this can vary widely.
In winter time the lagoon is one of the best places to go to view Northern Lights, with a constant cold breeze blowing from the mountains towards the sea, it creates an amazing atmosphere for viewing. During summertime there are frequent tours on boats and buses that take you up close and personal with these beautiful icebergs.
5. Golden Circle,
The Golden Circle is an area in southern Iceland that is popular for sightseeing. It includes 3 of the most impressive natural attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Gulfoss Waterfall and Gullfoss Waterfall. The number one reason why people come to this part of Iceland is to see Strokkur Geyser erupt.
This area of Iceland also includes one of the most famous and beloved landmarks; Gullfoss, an elegant waterfall that is roughly ten stories tall. It is located in the river Hvítá, which has its origins on Langjökull glacier.
The Golden Circle is easily accessed by the Ring Road that encircles Iceland.
Conclusion
Iceland Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik Whale Watching, Grindavík Blue Lagoon, Landmannalaugar Mountains, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & The Golden Circle are the best places to visit in Iceland. This article is a recommendation from us, there are also other places to visit in Iceland mentioned on the official website of Iceland but those we have listed above are the places you must visit in Iceland!
