Best things to do in Iceland: our top picks

A Rough Guides trip to Iceland puts you right on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Earth is literally pulling itself apart. You’ll feel it under your feet in cracked lava fields, see it in steam rising from roadside vents, and hear it bubbling in mud pools that look like something out of a sci-fi film. This is a land made for long drives, wide-open spaces, and natural wonders around every corner. Here’s our pick of the best things to do in Iceland.

1. Blue Lagoon bathing

A dip in the waters of the Blue Lagoon is a quintessentially Icelandic experience, especially since it’s so close to the airport.

Set in a lava field and fed by geothermal runoff, the milky blue water stays comfortably warm year-round, averaging around 99–102°F (37–39°C). It’s a good way to relax after a hike or at the end of your trip.

The water is completely renewed every 48 hours and contains minerals like silica and sulfur, which give it that pale blue color and are said to be good for your skin.

It’s the most famous geothermal pool in Iceland, but it’s not the only one. If you’re curious to try others, check out our guide to hot pools around Iceland.

How to get to the Blue Lagoon

The lagoon is about 12 miles (20 km) from Keflavík Airport and 28 miles (45 km) from Reykjavík. It’s close enough that lots of people go right before catching a flight. You can drive or take one of the regular buses or shuttles from either the airport or the city.

When to visit the Blue Lagoon

It’s open every day, all year. In winter, you might even catch Iceland's Northern Lights while soaking. Early mornings and evenings tend to be quieter. During summer, it stays open later and can book out fast—if you're visiting between June and August, it’s a good idea to reserve in advance.

2. Landmannalaugar's lava fields

Landmannalaugar sits in the Highlands, inside Iceland’s Fjallabak Nature Reserve, right at the edge of the Laugahraun lava field.

The area is known for its colorful hills—streaked with red, yellow, green, and blue tones—and for its natural hot springs. The lava field was created by a volcanic eruption around 1477, and the name “Landmannalaugar” means “the people’s pools,” a reference to the hot springs that Icelanders have been using since the 14th century.

Today, hiking is the main draw. Trails crisscross the valley, ranging from short walks to multi-day treks. Many people visit as part of a guided Highlands tour. This is one of the best things to do in Iceland. 

How to get to Landmannalaugar

You’ll need a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle to drive here. Landmannalaugar is only accessible via F-roads, and most people use F208 from the north or south. There are also buses in summer from Reykjavík that connect with the Highland Bus system.

Because some routes involve river crossings, this isn’t the best drive for beginners. If you’re unsure, you’re better off joining a guided tour (see our Iceland travel health tips for more on that).

When to visit Landmannalaugar

The season typically runs from late June through early September. July and August are best for hiking, with long days and fewer muddy trails. Mid-July is a good time for wildflowers and colorful mountain views. Outside of summer, the area is only reachable on specialized super jeep tours.

3. Hornstrandir hikes

Hornstrandir is about as remote as it gets in Iceland, and it’s not somewhere you can just swing by on a whim. But if you’re into hiking and don’t mind carrying your own supplies, it’s one of the most rewarding areas to explore.

There are no roads, so the only way in is by boat—usually from Ísafjörður, sometimes from Norðurfjörður. From mid-June to mid-August, a few ferries run each week. Once you're out there, it's just you, the cliffs, and the trail, which is one of the best reasons to visit Iceland in the first place.

Hornstrandir hasn’t had permanent residents since the 1950s. It’s home to a big population of arctic foxes that aren’t afraid of people, and you’ll also see a lot of birdlife. The cliffs at Hornbjarg rise 1,752 feet (534 meters) straight out of the sea.

How to get to Hornstrandir

Take a boat from Ísafjörður. Ferries run in summer but only a few times a week, and everything depends on weather. Book ahead and bring everything you need—there are no services, no shops, and no help if you forget something. See our guide to getting around Iceland.

When to visit Hornstrandir

Plan for mid-June through mid-August. That’s when the boats run and most trails are passable. July usually has the best hiking conditions. Weather can shift fast even in summer, so pack warm layers and be prepared for delays.  See our guide to the best time to visit Iceland for more helpful information for timing your trip.

4. Askja's crater

 Askja is a volcanic caldera out in Iceland’s interior, and getting there is part of the experience. The crater itself is about 5 miles (8 km) wide, formed when a magma chamber collapsed underground. At the center is Öskjuvatn, a deep, cold lake that reaches around 712 feet (217 meters). This is a must for any Iceland itinerary.

The trail takes you across a stark, lunar-like landscape up to the edge of the crater. From there, you can scramble down to Víti—a smaller crater with a shallow geothermal pool. The water is milky blue and hovers around 86°F (30°C), which feels warm enough for a quick dip if the weather isn’t too rough. This is one of the best things to do in Iceland.

How to get to Askja

You’ll need a 4x4 to reach Askja. Most people drive in on F88 or take F905 to F910. These are rough highland roads, and you’ll be crossing unbridged rivers, so this isn’t a route to take lightly. If you’d rather not drive yourself, there are guided super jeep tours that leave from Mývatn.

When to visit Askja

The roads to Askja usually open in late June and close by early September, depending on snow conditions. July and August are generally the most reliable months. Before heading out, check the latest road info at road.is—things can change fast out there.
 

5.  Rúnturs

 If you’re in Reykjavík over a weekend, you’ll probably hear about the rúntur—the local tradition of weekend bar-hopping in the city. The word means “round tour” and has roots in the country’s restrictive alcohol laws (beer over 2.25% wasn’t legal until 1989). These days, it’s more of a social ritual than a historical throwback.

It usually happens every other weekend. Things tend to start late—most people head out around 11pm—and bars fill up gradually from there. Laugavegur is the main drag, but you’ll find plenty of bars packed into the nearby streets too. People aren’t in a rush, and most keep going until 4am or so.

How to get to Rúnturs

Everything’s based in central Reykjavík (see our guide to the best area to stay in Reykjavik to see more about how the city is laid out). If you’re staying nearby, you can walk. If not, grab a bus or a taxi into town. Once you’re in the area, it’s easy to hop between bars on foot.

Download the Appy Hour app to check for drink deals and happy hour times. And see our guide to the best Reykjavík restaurants to grab a bite to eat after.

When to visit Rúnturs

Friday and Saturday nights are when it really happens. Most places don’t get busy until after midnight, and you’ll see the most action around 1–2am. Special events and themed nights often pop up around holidays or festivals, so keep an eye on local listings. See our guide to how to plan a trip to Iceland to get the most out of your trip. 
 

6. The Sagas

 The Icelandic Sagas are a big part of the country’s history—detailed stories written in the 13th and 14th centuries that trace events from the Viking Age. They cover everything from family feuds to long-distance voyages and were passed down for centuries before being written down. Some even describe trips to North America.

The Árni Magnússon Institute in Reykjavík holds over 1,600 manuscripts, including some of the oldest known examples, dating back to the 12th century. The collection is part of UNESCO’s Memory of the World register. If you’re interested in history or literature, this is a good place to start. This is a great addition to any Reykjavik itinerary.

How to get to The Sagas

The manuscript collection is housed at the Árni Magnússon Institute, just a short walk or bus ride from downtown Reykjavík. If you prefer something more visual, the Saga Museum near the old harbor uses wax figures to bring the stories to life. Driving around the country, you’ll also come across small regional museums focused on local sagas (like in Borgarnes or Hvolsvöllur).

When to visit The Sagas

These museums are open year-round, which makes them a good pick if the weather’s not great. The Saga Museum runs guided tours throughout the day. In summer, some towns put on saga-themed events or reenactments, usually tied to local festivals.
 

7. Akureyri

Akureyri feels like a proper town, with enough going on that you can settle in for a few days. It’s the second-largest place in Iceland, but still small by most standards—about 19,000 people live here. The town center has a nice mix of cafés, restaurants, bars, and a few museums.

The botanical garden here is one of the northernmost in the world, home to nearly 7,000 plant species — including every native Icelandic plant, plus a range of global ones.

The town’s church, Akureyrarkirkja, was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson (the same architect behind Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík). Inside, there’s a large pipe organ with 1,800 pipes and stained-glass windows from England. This is one of the best things to do in Iceland.

How to get to Akureyri

You can fly in from Reykjavík in under an hour—there are several daily flights. Driving takes about 4.5 hours on the Ring Road, and there are bus connections too if you’re not renting a car. Roads are usually well-maintained in winter, but mountain stretches can be icy or snowy, so it’s worth checking conditions ahead of time.

When to visit Akureyri

Summer is the easiest time to get around, with long days and good access to nearby areas. Winter is quieter and good for skiing, especially at Hlíðarfjall. Akureyri is a bit more sheltered than other northern towns, so the weather isn’t always as harsh. If you’re planning around events, there’s the Winter Lights Festival in February and a midnight-sun golf tournament in summer.
 

8. Lake Mývatn

 Lake Mývatn is about 60 miles (100 km) east of Akureyri and sits right along the Ring Road. It’s a shallow lake surrounded by lava fields and wetlands, and it’s especially well-known for birdlife.

In summer, the area lives up to its name—“Mývatn” means “midge lake,” and those tiny flies show up in full force. It’s not great for your face, but the birds love it. This is one of the best places in Europe for duck watching — all of Iceland’s duck species breed here or on the nearby Laxá river. Barrow’s goldeneye is a particular highlight, as this is the only place in Europe where it nests.

The landscape around the lake is full of old lava formations, geothermal activity, and moss-covered craters. There are plenty of places to walk, and the Mývatn Nature Baths are a nice way to wind down.

How to get to Lake Mývatn

It’s about an hour and a half from Akureyri by car. You can also catch a summer bus from town, but having your own vehicle makes it a lot easier to explore, since everything around the lake is spread out.

When to visit Lake Mývatn

June and late August are usually best if you want to see birds but skip the worst of the midges. Winter is completely different—the lava gets blanketed in snow, and you’ll see steam pouring out of vents around the area. Each season has its own draw, whether it’s nesting birds or frozen craters.
 

9. Þórsmörk National Park

Named after Thor, the Norse god of thunder, Þórsmörk is a dramatic valley in the southern highlands and one of best places to visit in Iceland because of it's hiking areas.

It’s surrounded by glaciers and known for its wide views, hidden waterfalls, and rushing rivers. The trails here feel remote. There are short walks and longer hikes, including multi-day routes to or from Skógar and Landmannalaugar. You’ll pass waterfalls, mossy gullies, and ridgelines with wide-open views. This is one of the best things to do in Iceland.

How to get to Þórsmörk

Getting here means crossing unbridged rivers, so you’ll need a modified 4x4 or to join one of the highland buses from Reykjavík or Hvolsvöllur. Most visitors take the bus — rental companies usually don’t allow river crossings. The journey is part of the experience, with rugged roads and river crossings along the way

When to visit Þórsmörk

Access is usually possible from late May to September. July and August tend to be the most stable weather-wise. Mountain huts and campsites are open during the main season, though it’s a good idea to book early. If you go in June or September, you’ll find fewer people on the trails, but weather can be more unpredictable. 
 

10. Breiðavík Beach

 This long stretch of golden sand and turquoise water stands out in Iceland, where most beaches are black. Set in the remote Westfjords near Látrabjarg—the towering bird cliffs—Breiðavík runs for nearly 2 miles (3 km) along a wide, curved bay.

On a sunny day, the colors really pop, with the sun glinting off the sand and sea. The beach looks calm and inviting, but the water rarely climbs above 50°F (10°C), even in the height of summer.

The cliffs nearby are home to one of the largest seabird colonies in the North Atlantic, with puffins, razorbills, and guillemots packed along the ledges. It’s quiet out here, and on a clear day you can sometimes see across Breiðafjörður bay to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, over 19 miles (30 km) away. This is easily one of the best beaches in Iceland.

How to get to Breiðavík Beach

Breiðavík is in the Westfjords, reached by a scenic but somewhat rough drive from Patreksfjörður. The road includes unpaved sections, but it’s generally fine for standard vehicles in summer. Most people combine the beach with a trip to Látrabjarg. The drive itself is worth it, with steep cliffs and winding roads that hug the fjord.

When to visit Breiðavík Beach

June through August is the best window, when the midnight sun lights up the sand well into the evening. July tends to be the warmest month, but even then it’s windy and cool. Conditions can change quickly, so bring layers. In winter, this part of the Westfjords is often inaccessible due to snow-covered roads.
 

11. Geysir

 Geysir is the geyser that gave its name to all the others. It’s located in Haukadalur Valley, along the Golden Circle. The Great Geysir itself is mostly dormant now—it occasionally erupts after earthquakes—but nearby Strokkur goes off like clockwork every 5–10 minutes, shooting boiling water about 65 feet (20 meters) into the air.

The surrounding geothermal area is full of activity, with steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and colorful mineral crusts. You can also hike to the top of nearby Bjarnarfell (2,385 feet / 727 meters) for a wide view over the valley and geysers.

How to get to Geysir

It’s about a 90-minute drive from Reykjavík, and part of the popular Golden Circle route (a popular Iceland road trip). The road is paved and well-maintained year-round. You’ll also find regular bus tours from the capital that stop here, usually paired with Gullfoss and Þingvellir. There’s a visitor center on site with restrooms and information about the geothermal system.

When to visit Geysir

You can visit any time of year. In winter, the steam cuts through the cold air and the crowds thin out. In summer, longer daylight hours mean you can stop by early or late to avoid peak traffic. Strokkur erupts regularly no matter the season, so you’ll always catch it in action.
 

12. Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir is one of the few places in the world where you can see two tectonic plates pulling apart above sea level, and is one of the best things to do in Iceland. The North American and Eurasian plates are drifting away from each other here by about 1 inch (2.5 cm) per year, and the rift valley that runs through the park shows it clearly.

The landscape is shaped by volcanic activity and glacial movement, but this is also a historic site—Þingvellir was where Iceland’s first parliament met in 930 AD. There’s a well-marked 6-mile (10 km) trail circuit starting at the visitor center that takes you through the valley, with views of fissures, waterfalls, and lava fields.

You can also dive or snorkel in the Silfra fissure, where the water stays around 35–39°F (2–4°C) year-round and visibility can exceed 300 feet (100 meters).

How to get to Þingvellir

From Reykjavík, take Route 36 northeast for about 45 minutes. The roads are paved and open year-round. The park has several parking areas and is easy to explore on foot. Bus tours along the Golden Circle also stop here, and in summer you can catch a public bus to the visitor center.

When to visit Þingvellir

Summer brings long days and green landscapes, which are ideal for hiking (see our Iceland travel tips for more about hiking in this country). Fall is great for color, and winter turns the park into a snow-covered valley with icy rifts. Spring is quieter, with fewer visitors and rushing meltwater. If you’re planning to snorkel or dive in Silfra, book ahead—spots fill quickly.
 

13. Phallological Museum, Reykjavík

Featured in our round-up of the world's weirdest museums, Reykjavík's Phallological Museum plays to host to over 200 penises and penile parts.

It was founded by former teacher Sigurður Hjartarson, whose interest in phallological matters began when he was a child in rural Iceland, where pizzles (bulls’ penises) are used as cattle whips.

Exhibits include penis specimens from polar bears, seals, foxes, and reindeer, with the pinnacle being a 3-foot long blue whale penis—a whopper that was once used as an oar.

How to get to the Phallological Museum

The museum is in central Reykjavík, within walking distance of most hotels and guesthouses. If you're staying farther out, city buses stop nearby. Look for it on Kalkofnsvegur near the harbor. The whole place can be seen in under an hour, so it’s easy to fit into a day of exploring downtown.

When to visit the Phallological Museum

Open year-round, the museum is a good indoor choice for rainy days or winter trips. Weekday mornings are usually quieter than weekends. Summer often brings longer hours and the occasional temporary exhibition. Plan for around 30–60 minutes, and check the website for any updates or events.
 

14. Whale-watching

 Whale-watching is a common reason people travel to Iceland, especially between April and September when marine life is most active. Minke whales, dolphins, and porpoises are usually around, with humpbacks showing up pretty often. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of orcas, fin whales, or even a blue whale.

Húsavík is known for its high success rate, but you can also go from Reykjavík or Akureyri. What’s changed in recent years is that Iceland’s moved away from whaling toward marine tourism, and now these tours are a major draw.

How to get to whale-watching tours

Tours leave straight from the harbors in Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Húsavík, so once you’re in town, it’s just a short walk. No extra transport needed. Tour operators usually hand out warm overalls, but it’s still smart to wear layers — the wind can cut through pretty fast.

When to visit for whale-watching

April through September is the main season, with the calmest waters and best chance of sightings between June and August. Mornings are usually less choppy than afternoons. Húsavík is especially known for humpback sightings. 
 

15. Skaftafell National Park

 Skaftafell covers around 650 square miles (1700 km²) of south Iceland, with highland plateaus, grassy meadows, and icy glaciers that are great for hiking, biking, and climbing.

The two main sights are Svartifoss, a waterfall framed by basalt columns, and the glacier tongue of Skaftafellsjökull. Trails range from short, easy walks to full-day treks that require more experience.

How to get to Skaftafell

Skaftafell is right off the Ring Road in southeast Iceland, about a 4-hour drive from Reykjavík. The main entrance is at the visitor center, where you’ll find parking and facilities. Public buses stop here in the summer, connecting to Reykjavík and other towns. Most trails start directly from the visitor center and are clearly marked with distance and difficulty.

When to visit Skaftafell

Skaftafell is open year-round, and each season feels different. Summer (June–August) has the best hiking weather and the midnight sun. Spring is when you’ll find strong waterfalls from snowmelt, and fall is quieter with colorful landscapes. In winter, you can join glacier walks and ice cave tours with a guide. Trail conditions are posted at the visitor center.
 

16. Hallgrimskirkja

Reykjavík’s best-known landmark, Hallgrímskirkja, is also the city’s tallest building at 244 feet (74.5 meters). Architect Guðjón Samúelsson designed it to echo the basalt formations you see at Svartifoss, so it looks like it’s rising out of the ground. Construction began just after World War II and wasn’t completed until 1986.

Inside, the pipe organ stands 49 feet (15 meters) tall and weighs 25 tons. Built by German organ maker Johannes Klais, it has 5,275 pipes and is still used for concerts today. The church is named after Hallgrímur Pétursson, a 17th-century poet known for his religious hymns. This is one of the best things to do in Iceland.

How to get to Hallgrímskirkja

The church is easy to find—it dominates the Reykjavík skyline and is just a short uphill walk from downtown. City buses stop nearby, and it’s included on most walking tours. The main church is free to enter, but the elevator to the tower has a small fee.

When to visit Hallgrímskirkja

Hallgrímskirkja is open all year, with longer hours in summer. Keep an eye out for organ concerts, especially in summer and around Christmas. The tower is open in most weather, but it may close during high winds. Tourist access is limited during Sunday services.
 

17. Dettifoss waterfall

Located in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, Dettifoss is known for its sheer volume—about 6,800 cubic feet (193 cubic meters) of glacial water plunge over the edge every second.That’s about enough to fill a swimming pool every 12 seconds. This is one of the best things to do in Iceland.

It drops 144 feet (45 meters) into the canyon below, sending up a constant mist. The water’s pale color comes from sediment carried down from the Vatnajökull glacier by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river.

If you’ve seen Ridley Scott’s Prometheus, this is the waterfall in the opening scene. You can drive pretty close, but if you’ve got time, hiking through the surrounding canyon adds a lot to the experience.

How to get to Dettifoss

There are two routes in. Route 864 on the east side is partly paved but rougher—better with a 4x4. Route 862 on the west side is fully paved and usually easier. Both turn off the Ring Road near Lake Mývatn. From the parking lots, you’ll walk short trails to reach the viewpoints.

When to visit Dettifoss

Roads are usually open from June to September. Early summer is when the flow is strongest due to glacial melt. The western road often stays open longer than the eastern one. If you’re visiting in June or July, the midnight sun gives the canyon a different feel..