Why visit Iceland — 10 reasons to go

Thinking of booking a trip to Iceland but not ready to take the plunge? From soaking up the magic of the midnight sun, to exploring elemental glacial landscapes, here we present 10 reasons that’ll answer any “why visit Iceland?” questions you might have.

1. The wintry wonder of the Northern Lights

Kicking off with an iconic reason to visit Iceland — witnessing the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis.

While the sighting season runs from September to April, you usually stand a better chance of seeing them do their most remarkable dance between October and March.

Before you go, read up on the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, with Jökulsárlón coming especially recommended.

Not only is this glacial lagoon of bright blue icebergs one of Iceland’s top natural attractions, but it also delivers a uniquely trippy experience of the Northern Lights, thanks to the way the ethereal emerald glow pulsates on its ice boulders. 

2. The celestial summer magic of the midnight sun 

In keeping with its rep for being a land of extraordinary contrasts, Iceland doesn’t only deliver celestial pleasures through the winter months. Come summer, the island’s midnight sun magic manifests itself at a time of year that’s also ripe for special seasonal hikes and festivals. 

While the period around the 21st June summer solstice presents the peak of this phenomenon, nights become notably lighter from May, offering opportunities to enjoy unique experiences that simply aren’t possible in winter.

Your summer Iceland itinerary can include night-time whale-watching trips, and rambling remote highlands hiking routes that are only accessible for a short window in summer.

These golden months are also a top time to take to the open road. Talking of which…

3. The glorious Golden Circle road trip route

Showcasing some of the island’s most marvelous natural wonders in three unforgettable areas, the Golden Circle road trip route serves stacks of reasons to visit Iceland in itself. It's one of the best road trips in Iceland.

First up, Thingvellir National Park. Scenically sited in a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plate — think dramatic cliffs, deep gorges and rushing rivers — it also offers a unique opportunity to dive between said continental plates — more on that below.

Also covering the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss Waterfall, the Golden Circle Route is easily accessible from Reykjavik and do-able in a day. 

4. Glacial adventuring

There’s no better way to experience the surreal allure of Iceland’s glacial landscapes than hiking trails that encompass snow-shrouded peaks, sparkling ice fields and dazzling blue caves, with the easy — and gratifying — walk to Sólheimajökull Glacier coming recommended for all abilities. 

If high-octane adventure is a high priority, consider heading to Snæfellsjökul — a three-in-one wonder ­of volcano, mountain, and glacier. The challenging day-long hike to its lofty summit is do-able from March to September.  See our guide to the best time to visit Iceland for more helpful information on Iceland's weather.

In more down-to-earth matters, it goes without saying that adventure comes with a degree of risk, so you’ll need a guide if you’re planning to tackle the likes of Snæfellsjökul.

5. Epic volcanoes and lava fields

Moving from ice to fire, having the chance to traverse otherworldly volcanic landscapes presents travelers with another persuasive reason to visit Iceland.

An easy way to enjoy just that is to head to Fagradalsfjall. Located in Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, this accessible must-visit more than lives up its name — Fagradalsfjall means “mountain of the beautiful valley”.

Of course, the flipside of visiting extraordinary natural landscapes is that said landscapes are subject to the vagaries of nature. And, in the case of Iceland, there’s always the possibility that volcanic activity might compel you to curtail — or even cancel — your trip. As an example, Fagradalsfjall erupted in 2021 after sleeping for some 6000 years. See our Iceland travel tips for some things to consider while planning your itinerary.

6. Chilling out in hot springs

Though Iceland invites adventure, there are times when even the most thrill-seeking traveler needs to relax, which is where the island’s hot springs come into their blissful body-and-soul-warming own. 

Imagine the joy of soothing sore muscles in rejuvenating geothermal waters after a day hiking volcanoes and glaciers, surrounded by landscapes of lava fields and mountains. 

While you’ll have most likely heard of the ever-popular Blue Lagoon, don’t pass up the chance to visit the rest of the best hot springs in Iceland.

7. Extraordinary aquatic experiences: wild waterfalls and intercontinental diving 

Beyond its hot springs, Iceland is blessed with a bounty of unforgettable water-based attractions, including wild waterfalls that encapsulate the country’s primordial vibe. These are some of the best places to visit in Iceland.

Iceland’s most awe-inspiring cascades include Dettifoss — the second most powerful waterfall in Europe — horseshoe-shaped Hrafnabjargafoss, bright-hued Bruarfoss (something of a hidden gem), Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss.

We also recommend heading to Oxararfoss waterfall. Located in the Thingvellir National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site, it also offers access to another incredible water experience. Namely, being able to dive or snorkel the Silfra Fissure — the tectonic boundary between the North American and Eurasian plates. See our guide to how to plan a trip to Iceland to help narrow down how to spend your time.

8. Unforgettable animal encounters

In keeping with its elemental nature, Iceland’s wildlife covers creatures of the land, sea, and air. 

Famously, Iceland is one of the best places in the world to watch whales, including notable numbers of humpbacks and minkes, and the occasional orca. To maximise your chance of seeing them, your best bet is to take a boat trip from Húsavík — the country’s whale watching capital — between June and August. This is by far one of the best things to do in Iceland.

The summer months are also the best time to see some of the world’s biggest colonies of puffins. From May to August, these adorable creatures can be seen nesting around Vestmannaeyjar in the Westman Islands and Látrabjarg Cliffs in the Westfjords.

Mention must also be made of Iceland’s elusive arctic foxes — the country’s only native land mammal — and Icelandic horses. While you’ll no doubt spot these sturdy little steeds around the hills and mountains of Iceland’s interior, they’re also often seen on beaches. Talking of which…

9. Mind-blowing beaches

Now here’s a reason to visit Iceland you might not have expected — getting to hang out on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. 

Skeptical? Put aside archetypal images of tropical white sand bays fronted by balmy waters. Picture, instead, primal vistas of sparkling black sand that invite soulful reflection during extended walks on the wild side. 

Take Reynisfjara, for example, which has a habit of being counted among the world’s most beautiful beaches. Exuding raw, wild Atlantic energy, its fantastical sea stacks and basalt columns have given rise to an intriguing origin legend involving a pair of trolls.

Mention must also be made of Diamond Beach, one of the best beaches in Iceland. Though far from hidden, it’s definitely a gem, named for the glittering icebergs that wash ashore on its black sand.

Meanwhile, breaking with convention, Rauðasandur in the Westfjords boasts a spectacular swathe of red-and-gold sand. It also happens to be a wonderful place to spot puffins. 

10. Reykjavik’s quirky cultural attractions

Cool, cultured, and undeniably creative, Iceland’s capital offers travelers an array of unusual attractions and experiences that lay bare the island’s unique history and personality.

First up, the Icelandic Phallological Museum, which houses a huge collection of preserved animal phalluses, among them an eye-wateringly enormous whale specimen.

Into history, or traveling with kids? Don’t miss the Saga Museum, where uncannily lifelike wax figures bring Icelandic sagas to life (and don't miss our guide to Iceland with kids).

Counter-culture aficionados will also want to stop by the Punk Museum, while art lovers should definitely visit the Raven’s Nest art installation — an ever-evolving outdoor exhibition of recycled scrap metal curated by Hrafn Gunnlaugsson, owner of the oceanside Reykjavik property. 

It's also a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat. See our pick of the best of Reykjavik's restaurants.