Top 16 Places to Visit in Iceland to Discover the Icelandic Treasures

Some of the tourist attractions will leave people asking for more as it offers a peaceful charm of the old Viking villages or the beauty of the lakes or volcanoes. The most breathtaking tourist attractions in Iceland include the steep waterfalls, the nature reserves, beauty of Jokulsarlon or the warm and milk blue waters of Askja Caldera.

Fishing villages are the one stop holiday destination that offer a peaceful vacation. The small towns and villages are Iceland’s pride right from Hella with its whale spotting activities to Sigllufjorour’s snowcapped mountains. Some of these places to visit in Iceland have a significant vantage point where people can enjoy the northern lights, Kirkfjufell mountain and Mount Esja.

Top 16 Places To Visit in Iceland- Stunning Power Of Nature

Iceland has proved the power of nature at every turn right from the gazing on the norther lights to the soaking in of geothermal pool surrounded by volcanic landscapes. It is not surprising that people have a bucket list of places to visit, right from the glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, wildlife- watching and midnight sun. There are several places to visit in Iceland, which include:

Reykjavík
Mosfellsbaer
Akranes
Akureyri
Vestmannaeyjar
Kópavogur
Ísafjörður
Húsavík
Selfloss
The Westman Islands
Black Beach
Vatnajokull National Park
Barnafoss
Thingvellir National Park
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Hofn

1. Reykjavík

Reykjavik, the largest city in Iceland, was once a upon a time a small village, located on Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, in southwestern Iceland. Back in 874, Reykjavik was founded by Norseman Ingolfur Arnason and in 1918, was declared the capital of Iceland. It has become a significant fishing port and a cultural, industrial and commercial hub. People can explore Reykjavik for its natural beauty and nightlife culture. The appeal to the attractive city comes from the vibrant traditional houses, small cafes and lush public gardens.

The swimming pools are one of the attractions in Reykjavik, and so people can go to Laugardalslaug pool, Sundhöll Reykjavíkur, and Nautholsvik for a dive. Hallgrimskirkja Church, the Harpa Concert Hall and Old Harbor, and the Statue of Leif Eiriksson are some of the other places people should explore. The activities people can indulge are shopping at the flea market, whale watching and a tour of the Northern lights. The public parks are the one place people can relax or visiting the Reykjavik Art Gallery. Reyjavik is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland.

How To Reach: Keflavík International Airport is an international airport in Reykjavik, where most of the major airline's land. People can even travel by sea, car or bus.

Best time to visit: June and August

Nearest Airport: Keflavik International Airport

Top Attractions: Hallgrimskirkja Church, the Harpa Concert Hall and Old Harbor, and the Statue of Leif Eiriksson

Best Places To Stay: Skuggi Hotel by Keahotels, Hilton Reykjavik Nordica, and Grand Hotel Reykjavik

2. Mosfellsbaer

Often called the green town of Iceland, Mosfellsbaer is filled with a range of greenhouses, nestled 12 kms east of Reykjavik. Grímannsfell, Helgafell, Úlfarsfell, and Mosfell are the towering hills that dominate the town of Mosfellsbaer. With a rugged landscape, Mosfellsbear is a mountainous area, surrounded by grassy mountains. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe for its stunning valleys and picturesque hills.

The Azure Ocean seen at the Leirvogur Bay makes the town even more stunning. The unparalleled beauty is seen in the charming footpaths and walking trails across the town. With a range of stunning attractions, people from around the world come to visit Mosefellsbaer. Laxnes Horse Farm, the Kirkjufell Mountain, and the Mosfellsbaer Golf Club are some of the attractions found here. Swimming, hiking, trout fishing and skiing are some of the adventure activities one can engage in.

How To Reach: Reykjavík Airport is the closest airport in Mosfellsbear. People can even travel by road comfortably.

Best time to visit: June- September

Nearest Airport: Reykjavik Airport

Top Attractions: Laxnes Horse Farm, the Kirkjufell Mountain, and the Mosfellsbaer Golf Club

Best Places To Stay: Hotel Laxnes, Grand Hotel Reykjavik, Hilton Reykjavik Nordica

3. Akranes

The charming port town, Akranes is nested a couple of kms away from Reykjavik. Seen on the foot of Akrafjall, a high basalt mountain, Akranes is known for its ancient lighthouse. It is one of the places to visit in Iceland known for its stunning campsites, museums, azure swimming pools and cafes. Boasting a rich culture that makes it the town appealing, Akranes is known for a range of attractions right from museums to pools. Akranes Folk Museum, the Akranes Lighthouse, the Jaðarsbakkar swimming pool, and Langisandur beach are some of the Akrane attractions people should discover.

One of the many things to do in Europe is to give those taste buds a treat to coffee or divine pizza at Galito. Besides giving those taste buds a treat to coffee and food; one can relax in Guolaug’s hot water pool. Brejoin lighthouse along with the old rowing boats at the Akranes Folk Museum are some of the stunning tourist attractions in Iceland.

How To Reach: Keflavik International Airport is the main airport in Akranes. One can even travel by car or bus in comfort.

Best time to visit: June- August

Nearest Airport: Keflavik International Airport

Top Attractions: Akranes Folk Museum, the Akranes Lighthouse, the Jaðarsbakkar swimming pool, and Langisandur beach.

Best Places To Stay: Akranes HI Hostel, Moar Guesthouse, Gallery Guesthouse- staywest and Teigur Guesthouse

4. Akureyri

The 4th biggest municipality in the country and fishing centre, Akureyehi offers stunning views of the majestic mountains like Stryta and Kerling. The city is known to the world as the “Capital of North Iceland” as it filled with stunning canyons and waterfalls. The charm of the town is seen through the well-paved roads, cute houses and charming cafes. Laufas Turf Houses, Myvatn and Grjotagja hot spring, Dettifoss waterfall, Godafoss waterfall, Asbyrgi canyon, Lake Mývatn, Akureyri Art Museum, and the Akureyri Botanical Gardens are some of the place's tourists should explore. Cafes, pools, hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural baths are some of the attractions seen at every corner of the town.

Some of the most exciting activities people can enjoy include discovering the history of Akureyi Museum, hiking tour to the Hlíðarfjall Mountain and visiting the Lutheran Church of Akuryrarkikja. It is said to be one of the safe places to visit in the world during June, July and August.

How To Reach: Akureyi International Airport is the main airport in Iceland. People can travel by car or bus in comfort.

Best time to visit: May- November

Nearest Airport: Akureyi International Airport

Top Attractions: Laufas Turf Houses, Myvatn and Grjotagja hot spring, Dettifoss waterfall, Godafoss waterfall, Asbyrgi canyon, Lake Mývatn, Akureyri Art Museum, and the Akureyri Botanical Gardens

Best Places To Stay: Hotel Kea by Keahotels, Icelandair Hotel Akureyri, Hotel Akureyi and Lava Apartments

5. Vestmannaeyjar

Made up of 14 stunning islands, Vestmannaeyjar is home to several seabirds, including puffin, guillemot, gannet, kittiwake, and Iceland gull. The naturally beautiful place is known for its basalt columns that are surrounded by photogenic islands. The island get is charm from the mystic caves, coves and grottos.

Nature lovers and shutterbugs are attracted to the colorful birdlife. Filled with a range of attractions, Vestmannaeyjar is known as the Puffin Paradise. Eldheimar Volcano Museum, the Sæheimar Aquarium, the Stave Church, the Elephant Rock, Þórsvöllur Camping Ground, and the Beluga Whale Sanctuary are some of the places people should visit in Vestmannaeyjar. There are a number of activities people can enjoy like go on a hiking tour to Storaklif and Heimaklettur, eat pizzas at Grillhus and discover Heimaklettur. Sagnheimar Folk Museum and Brothers Brewery and Bar are some of the best places to visit in Iceland.

How To Reach: Keflavik International Airport is the main airport in Vestmannaeyjar. People can even travel by road, in comfort.

Best time to visit: June- August

Nearest Airport: Keflavik International Airport

Top Attractions: Eldheimar Volcano Museum, the Sæheimar Aquarium, the Stave Church, the Elephant Rock, Þórsvöllur Camping Ground, and the Beluga Whale Sanctuary

Best Places To Stay: Guesthouse Holl, Hotel Vestmannaeyjar and Gisitiheimilio Arny Guesthouse

6. Kópavogur

The modern residential suburb, Kopavogur is said to the 2nd biggest municipality in Iceland. Found in the southeastern shore of Faxa Bay, Smaratorg tower is said to be the tallest building of the country. The beauty of the suburb is defined by the seals in the ocean waters by the shoreline of the ancient part of the town. The unmatched scenic charm of Kopavogur is given shape by the stunning Kopavogsdalur valley. Kopavogur is a stunning tourist spot in Iceland known for its indigenous species and exotic birds.

Public parks and cultural museums to churches and restaurants are a range of attractions found in every corner of the town. The Natural History Museum of Kópavogur, the Kopavogur Church, the Portið Antic market, and the Rush Trampoline Park are some of the popular places to visit in Kopavogur. One can even go shopping at Smaralind, go have a bath in the Kopovaslaug’s geothermal swimming pool, concert at Salurinn and visit the Geroarsafn Kopavogur Art Museum.

How To Reach: Reykjavik (RKV) Airport is the main airport in Kopavogur. People can travel by road without any problems.

Best time to visit: June- August

Nearest Airport: Reykjavik (RKV) Airport

Top Attractions: The Natural History Museum of Kópavogur, the Kopavogur Church, the Portið Antic market, and the Rush Trampoline Park

Best Places To Stay: Icelandic Apartments, Hotel Kriunes , Grand Hotel Reykjavik and Hotel Viking

7. Ísafjörður

Isafjorour, “fjord of ice”, is said to be the centre Isajaroarbaer and is known to home to some of the biggest fishes. The colorful culture and festivals like Ski week festival and Aldrei, Isafjorour is filled with some of the most stunning mountains and rich biodiversity. The stunning waterfalls and nature reserves to the vibrant souvenir shops and modern restaurants are some of the well-known attractions in Isafjorour. Dynjandi Waterfall, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Westfjords Maritime Museum, the Edinborg Cultural Center, and the Snæfjallaströnd Beach, one of the beaches in Europe are some of other attractions people should explore. People have the most amazing holiday with the range of activities offered.

Some of the most exciting things tourists can do is kayak around Mt. Oshlid, eat at Gamla Bakariid, go hiking to Latrabjarg Bird cliffs and shop for all kinds of clothes at Karitas.

How To Reach: Ísafjörður Airport is the main airport where most of the major airline’s land. People can even travel by road, without any problems.

Best time to visit: June- August

Nearest Airport: Ísafjörður Airport

Top Attractions: Dynjandi Waterfall, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Westfjords Maritime Museum, the Edinborg Cultural Center, and the Snæfjallaströnd Beach

Best Places To Stay: Hotel Isafjorour, Holt Inn, Hotel Edda Isafjorour and Hotel Horn

8. Húsavík

Husavik said to the oldest settlement of Iceland, is known to a highly popular fishing port and market for raising sheep and dairy farming. Apart from being a port and market, it is one of the ideal places in Iceland for watching whales. Stunning snow- clad mountains, museums, restaurants and colorful houses are some of the things that has defined the beauty of the town. Filled with museums, churches, restaurants and baths, the town of Husavik is one of the must visit places in Iceland.

The Whale Museum, the GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths, Könnunarsögusafnið Exploration Museum, The Culture House at Húsavík, the Húsavíkurkirkja, the Húsavík Swimming Pool, and the Húsavík Campground are some of the places people should visit. Whale watching, sea kayaking, birdwatching and horseback riding are some of the adventurous activities people should try. In case you are seafood fan, then you should go to Gamli Baukar Restaurant and discover the Husavik museum.

How To Reach: Husavik Airport is the main airport where most of the major airlines’ land. People can even travel by road, without any problems.

Best time to visit: June- August

Nearest Airport: Husavik Airport

Top Attractions: The Whale Museum, the GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths, Könnunarsögusafnið Exploration Museum and the Culture House at Húsavík

Best Places To Stay: Fosshotel Husavik, Arbol Guesthouse, Husavik Cape hotel and Saltvik Guesthouse.

9. Selfloss

Seen on the banks of the Olfusa river, Selfloss is filled with small industries and historical buildings. Each year, tourists from around the world can attend a number of colorful festivals, which has given the place the name “cultural center of Southwestern.”

Defined by its waterfalls, hot water springs and crystal-clear swimming pool, Selfloss is known for its unmatched beauty. The well- preserved houses in the small ancient villages, adds beauty to the town. People will never fall short of choices as there a range of attractions to visit. Selfoss Swimming Pool, Bobby Fischer Center, Selfosskirkja, Huppa Ice Cream Shop, Bíóhúsið Cinema, and Tryggvaskáli are some of the places people should visit. Giving your taste buds a treat to some of the finest beer and street food and going hunting at Northern lights are some of the things people can do. Selfloss has something for everyone and so, people will never have a dull moment.

How To Reach: Selfloss Airport is the main airport at Selfloss where most of the airline's land. Tourists can even travel by road without any problems.

Best time to visit: June- August, December to March

Nearest Airport: Selfloss Airport

Top Attractions: Bobby Fischer Center, Selfosskirkja, Huppa Ice Cream Shop, Bíóhúsið Cinema, and Tryggvaskáli

Best Places To Stay: Hotel Grimsborgir, Hotel South Coast, Hotel Ork and Hotel Selfloss and Spa

10. The Westman Islands

Have you ever heard of the home islands? If you haven’t then you are in for a treat. The biggest and highly populated island, the Westland Islands is also known as “home islands.” One of the best places to visit in Iceland, the island is home to breathtaking shores and Artic baby puffins. The beauty of the archipelago is absolutely stunning. The major tourist spots at the island are 2 active volcanoes. Rock- climbing and kayaking at the cyan waters are some of the sports people should try. Exploring the island makes a holiday complete as it is one of the most breathtaking places to visit when on vacation. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to having the best time of their lives?

How To Reach: Vestmannaeyjar Airport is the main airport in the Westman Islands. People can even travel by road comfortably.

Best time to visit: June- August

Nearest Airport: Vestmannaeyjar Airport

Top Attractions: 2 volcanoes

Best Places To Stay: Hotel Vestmmannaeyjar, Guesthouse Holl and Puffin Nest Capsule Hostel

11. Black Beach

Even though the black beach is said to be mysterious, it is romantic. The Reunisfjara, known for its huge stacks of basalt, the amazing panoramas and Atlantic waves, is said to be one of the famous black sand beaches in Iceland. Did you know that the black beach has risen from volcanic ashes? The black volcanic beaches are not a rarity since Iceland is home to over 130 active volcanoes. The shiny beach with stunning icebergs sitting on the black sand, the Breiðamerkursandur ice Diamond is nestled by the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. People often get the feeling of entering a mystical locale once they enter a lagoon, surrounded by shiny diamonds.

Home to a mysterious attraction that seems like a plane wreck, Solheimasandur is another black beach in Iceland. Tourists visiting the beach are a natural wonderland, as it lies close to the Skogafoss waterfall. Tourists are given a treat to the stunning view of the Vestrahorn Mountains, an ideal place for photography at the Stokksnes beach, nestled on the Icelandic coast’s southeastern part. Djupalonssandur beach is a popular beach sitting on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the black pebble beach with a stunning volcanic rock formation.

How To Reach: Keflavík Airport is the main airport where most of the major airline's land. People can even travel by road with ease.

Best time to visit: June- August

Nearest Airport: Keflavík Airport

Top Attractions: Skogafoss waterfall, Vestrahorn Mountains

12. Vatnajokull National Park

The largest national park in Europe, Vatnajokull National Park is spread across a large area of 13,6000 sq kms. Stunning landscapes, glacial ice, geothermal activities and crystal-clear river waters are some of the features of Vatnajokull National Park. Home to the largest glacier, the national park is spread across at least 14% of Iceland.

Some of the major attractions people should explore are Snaefell, Kverkjoll and Askja volcanoes and Herdubreid mountains. The ice caves are one of the most breathtaking sites to see for its electric blue color. The untouched hiking trails are waiting for the trekkers to explore them. The national park is one of the most ideal places to visit in Iceland for its adrenaline pumping activities like snowmobiling, ATV rides and ice climbing.

How To Reach: Reykjavik is one of the main airports where most of the airline's land. Tourists can travel by car or bus easily without any problems.

Best time to visit: May- September

Nearest Airport: Reykjavik

Top Attractions: Snaefell, Kverkjoll and Askja volcanoes and Herdubreid mountains

13. Barnafoss

Barnafoss is a captivating natural marvel tucked away amid Iceland's picturesque surroundings. Situated close to the town of Reykholt in the western region of Iceland, Barnafoss is not only a striking spectacle but also has a rich cultural and historical significance. The Hvítá River is traversed by the waterfall, which cascades over several uniquely shaped rock formations to produce a show of foaming rapids and rushing water. The mythology that revolves around Barnafoss adds to its allure which tells about the story of a legend that two kids died a long time ago as they were crossing a stone arch and plunged into the waterfall. The arch was destroyed by their distraught mother during their time of bereavement, thus the name "Children's Waterfall" one of the best places to visit in Iceland.

How To Reach: Reykjavik is one of the main airports that connects the region to the other parts of Iceland.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Nearest Airport: Reykjavik Airport

Top Attractions: Waterfall

Best Places To Stay: Fosshotel Reykholt, Hotel Husafell, Hraunsnef Sveitahotel, Basalt Hotel, Hotel Varmaland, Hotel Hamar

14. Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that is a living testament to both natural beauty and historical significance, is tucked away in the middle of Iceland's breathtaking scenery. Located towards the northeast of Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park holds a special place in the heart of every Icelander as the site of the world's first parliament, the Althing. Being considered as the geological marvel, the park is in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates converge to form the Almannagjá Rift Valley. It is the home to a plentitude of picturesque landscapes like crystalline lakes, splashing waterfalls, and verdant valleys, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, diving, etc., which can be included in the list of things to do in Europe.

How To Reach: Keflavik International airport is one of the main airports that connects the region to the other parts of Iceland.

Best time to visit: January to December

Nearest Airport: Keflavik International Airport

Top Attractions: Thingvellir Church, Thingvalla Lake, Silfra, Alyingi, Budir

Best Places To Stay: Hotel Grimsborgir, Reykjavik Lights by Keahotels, Hotel Laxnes, Hotel Selfoss, Frost & Fire Hotel, Hotel Kriunes, The Greenhouse Hotel, Hotel Ork, Hiltom Reykjavik Nordica

15. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Set against the backdrop of the majestic glaciers and craggy mountains, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is best known for its lucid blue water towering icebergs, evoking a scene from fairytale and is one of the best places to visit in Iceland. One of the most magnificent and profound glacial lakes in Iceland, Jökulsárlón was created by the retreat of the Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, which is the outflow glacier of the Vatnajökull ice cap. Beyond its scenic natural splendor, Jökulsárlón is a wildlife sanctuary enriched with an incredible biodiversity, enhanced by seabirds soaring overhead, and seals can frequently be seen relaxing on the ice floes. Never forget to take up a scenic boat ride where you can marvel at the majestic natural eccentricities of the lagoon and sail all along the icebergs.

How To Reach: Hornafjörður Airport is the nearest airport to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon which connects the attraction to other parts of the world.

Best time to visit: April to October

Nearest Airport: Hornafjörður Airport

Top Attractions: Glacial lagoon

Best Places To Stay: Ekra, Reynivellir Guesthouse, Hali Country Hotel, Saudanes Guesthouse, Skyrhusid Guest House, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Hotel Smyrlabjorg, Adventure Hotel Hof, Hotel Skaftafell

16. Hofn

Nestled on Iceland's southeastern coast set against the backdrop of towering mountains and expansive glaciers, Höfn is a charming seaside village that is well-known for its breathtaking vistas along with its incredible cultural heritage and one of the best places to visit in Europe. Take a stroll around its charming streets lined with vibrant colorful houses, stop by the eateries and stores to try out the best seafood dishes, or just take in the tranquil atmosphere of this coastal town. One of Höfn's most famous attractions is the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where visitors can witness towering icebergs as they calve off the nearby glacier and float serenely on the lagoon's tranquil blues. Don’t miss out on taking up activities ranging from glacial hiking, ice climbing, to boat rides for an alluring affair.

How To Reach: Hornafjörður Airport is the nearest airport to Hofn which connects this coastal village to other parts of the world.

Best time to visit: May to August

Nearest Airport: Hornafjörður Airport

Top Attractions: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Vestrahorn Mountain

Best Places To Stay: Fosshotel Vatnajokull, Hotel Jokull, Skyrhusid Guest House, Old Airline Guesthouse, Hrafnavellir Guest House

When it comes to describing a beauty of a place, it often difficult to put them in words. Words fail to describe the beauty of Iceland which is seen in grasslands, stunning mountains, glaciers and volcanoes to the hot springs. Prepare a list of places to visit in Iceland since it is said to be the one stop holiday destination that offers a memorable experience of a lifetime. So, when it comes to planning a holiday, explore some of the places in Iceland. Pack your bags and book your Iceland tour packages for an incredible Icelandic vacation.

FAQs

Q1. What are some of the most stunning places in Iceland?

Vatnajokull National Park, Black Beach, Selfloss , Húsavík and Ísafjörður are some of the beautiful places in Iceland.

Q2. Is 3 days enough in Iceland?

3 days in Iceland is fine, in fact, one can spend 4 days.

Q3. What are some of the places people should not miss exploring?

The Blue Lagoon, Hallgrímskirkja, Askja, Thórsmörk National Park, Þingvellir National Park, Vatnajökull National Park and The Northern Lights are some of the places people should not miss exploring.

Q4.Which is the largest park in Europe?

Vatnajokull National Park is the largest park in Europe,spread across a large area of 13,6000 sq kms.

Q5. Which is the peak season in Iceland?

Summers is the peak season in Iceland which is between June to August.

Q6. What are some of the attractions at Vatnajokull National Park?

Snaefell, Kverkjoll and Askja volcanoes and Herdubreid mountains are some of the attractions at the park.

Q7. Which is the best time to visit the black beach?

June- August is the best time to visit the black beach.

Q8. When can people visit Akureyri?

May- November is the best time to visit Akureyi.

Q9. When is the best time to visit Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland is during the months of September and March when you can witness the Northern Lights. Moreover, you can visit Iceland during the summer months like June and August to carry out thrilling summer activities.

Q10. What are the main activities to do in Iceland?

The main activities to do in Iceland are: