Top 12 Must-Visit Destinations in Iceland, Europe | Iceland Travel Guide

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Welcome to the land of fire and ice.

Iceland is one of the world's most stunning travel destinations, perfect not only for thrill-seeking adventurers but also for nature lovers looking for something unique and rare. Iceland is a Nordic island country in the North Atlantic Ocean, located in a volcanically and geologically active area. Its total land area spans nearly 103,000 square kilometers, making it the 106th largest country and the 18th largest island in the world. This land is covered by lava fields, mountains, glaciers, and sand fields. Iceland is the most sparsely populated country in Europe. With its contrasting northern lights, volcanic landscapes, silky dark black sand beaches, geothermal pools, glaciers, midnight sun, endless green stretches of land, and amazing wildlife, Iceland offers more than just a typical travel experience. So come join us on World Travel Picks' genuinely magical journey to visit the most beautiful destinations in Iceland.

Number 12: Vestrahorn

Vestrahorn is one of the few gabbro rock mountains in Iceland, located on the Stokksnes Peninsula in the far southeast along the famous ring road. The formation of Vestrahorn dates back 8 to 11 million years. Its name comes from its horn-like appearance, and it's also known as Batman Mountain due to its three notable peaks resembling the famous Batman logo. Standing 454 meters tall, Vestrahorn is surrounded by a striking black tidal lagoon, offering a magnificent reflection of the mountains, making it a photographer’s paradise in Iceland.

Highlights:

• Stunning black tidal lagoon with reflections of the mountain.
• Unique rock formation with a shape resembling the Batman logo.
• Rich wildlife and scenic hiking trails.

Tips:

• Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and reflections.
• Bring a tripod for the best photography results.
• Check local weather conditions before heading out as it can be unpredictable.

Number 11: Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is a powerful waterfall that cascades into a picturesque meadow along the southern coast of Iceland. It is fed by meltwater from the glacial-capped volcano Eyjafjallajokull. The waterfall cascades over steep cliffs and is surrounded by impressive natural landscapes. As one of Iceland's most famous and visited falls, Seljalandsfoss features a wide cavern, rocks, and a path that lie behind the falls, making it an unforgettable experience.

Highlights:

• Unique opportunity to walk behind the waterfall.
• Beautiful surrounding meadow and rock formations.
• Easily accessible with a viewing platform.

Tips:

• Wear waterproof clothing and shoes as the path behind the waterfall can be very wet.
• Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.
• Use a waterproof camera cover for your photos.

Number 10: Vik

Vik is the southernmost seafront village in Iceland, located along the main ring road. This peaceful and scenic village is renowned for its captivating little church and is bordered to the south by the famous Reynisfjara beach. Among Iceland's many black beaches with silky dark sand, Reynisfjara stands out as a world-famous destination. Easily accessible from Vik, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking black sand beach while exploring this magical tiny village. Vik is home to various bird species and marine life, offering opportunities to spot adorable puffins, sunbathing seals, or even dolphins and whales along the shore.

Highlights:

• Reynisfjara beach with its dramatic black sand and basalt columns.
• Picturesque church with a stunning backdrop of the sea.
• Opportunities to see puffins, seals, and other wildlife.

Tips:

• Be cautious of strong waves and currents at Reynisfjara beach.
• Check for puffin watching tours during the summer season.
• Explore local cafes and shops in Vik for a taste of Icelandic culture.

Number 9: Hverfjall

Hverfjall is a tuff ring or tephra cone volcano in northern Iceland, east of Myvatn. This small volcano boasts an impressive crater approximately one kilometer in diameter. Easily accessible from the ring road, Hverfjall offers stunning views, especially when soft white snow covers its crater.

Highlights:

• Impressive crater with panoramic views from the top.
• Scenic and accessible location near the Myvatn area.
• Unique geological formation with diverse volcanic features.

Tips:

• Wear sturdy hiking boots for the best experience on the trail.
• Check weather conditions before hiking as it can be windy and cold.
• Bring binoculars for bird watching in the surrounding area.

Number 8: Kirkjufell

Kirkjufell is a uniquely shaped mountain peak on the north shore of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Its perfect location and dramatic appearance have made it the most photographed mountain in Iceland. Often called the Church Mountain due to its shape, Kirkjufell is enhanced by a nearby waterfall that doubles the mountain's beauty. The mountain's appearance changes with the seasons, making it picture-perfect year-round.

Highlights:

• Iconic mountain shape with a nearby picturesque waterfall.
• Popular spot for photography with changing seasonal views.
• Close proximity to other scenic spots on the Snaefellsnes peninsula.

Tips:

• Visit during the golden hour for the best lighting and photo opportunities.
• Explore nearby areas for additional scenic views and activities.
• Be prepared for varying weather conditions and bring appropriate gear.

Number 7: Skogafoss

Skogafoss, one of Iceland's largest waterfalls, is located a few kilometers from the south shores in the village of Skogar along the southern ring road. Skogafoss is a popular summer resort center, surrounded by the scenic beauty of snow-capped peaks and two towering glaciers. On clear days, visitors can witness stunning single or double rainbows in front of the waterfalls.

Highlights:

• Majestic waterfall with opportunities to view rainbows.
• Scenic surroundings with glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
• Accessible viewing platforms and hiking trails nearby.

Tips:

• Bring a raincoat or poncho as the mist from the waterfall can be heavy.
• Climb the stairs to the top of the falls for a different perspective.
• Visit on a sunny day for the best chance to see rainbows.

Number 6: Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar is a uniquely beautiful rock formation in Iceland’s southern highlands. The colorful shades of pink, red, green, blue, and golden yellow give it an otherworldly appearance. Nearby lava fields, geothermal hot springs, and numerous hiking trails attract adventurous travelers throughout the summer. Landmannalaugar's stunning geological features are the result of thousands of years of volcanic activity, with rhyolite mountains made of quartz and silica, along with minerals like sulfur and iron, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.

Highlights:

• Vibrant and colorful rhyolite mountains.
• Nearby geothermal hot springs and extensive hiking trails.
• Unique geological formations resulting from volcanic activity.

Tips:

• Plan for a full day trip to explore the area thoroughly.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks for the hiking trails.
• Check road conditions and accessibility, especially during the winter months.

Number 5: Lake Myvatn

Myvatn is a shallow lake with numerous small islands, located in an active volcanic area in northern Iceland. As the fourth largest lake in the country, Lake Myvatn is known for its unique geology, serene landscapes, and diverse birdlife. The Myvatn nature baths are another highlight, offering panoramic views of the surroundings while soaking in milky blue thermal waters.

Highlights:

• Unique volcanic landscape and diverse birdlife.
• Relaxing geothermal baths with views of the lake.
• Scenic islands and geological formations around the lake.

Tips:

• Visit the nature baths for a relaxing experience and panoramic views.
• Bring binoculars for bird watching, especially during migration seasons.
• Explore the nearby geological formations and hot springs.

Number 4: Vatnajokull National Park

Vatnajokull National Park is one of Iceland’s three national parks, covering 14,141 square kilometers, nearly 14% of the country's total area. It is the second-largest national park in Europe and home to Vatnajokull Glacier, the largest glacier mass in Europe. The park features rivers, awe-inspiring landscapes, glaciers, mountains, volcanoes, geothermal areas, and ice caves, creating a mesmerizing natural environment. Jokulsarlon, a large glacial lake formed by melting water from the Breidamerkurjokull glacier, is one of the park's most notable spots.

Highlights:

• Vast glacier landscape and dramatic ice caves.
• Jokulsarlon glacial lake with floating icebergs.
• Diverse natural features including rivers, volcanoes, and geothermal areas.

Tips:

• Take a guided glacier tour to safely explore the ice caves.
• Dress warmly and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
• Visit Jokulsarlon in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.

Number 3: Reykjavik

The splendid Reykjavik is Iceland's capital and largest city, located on the southern shore of Faxafloi Bay. Its unique location makes it the northernmost capital in the world. Reykjavik, considered the site of Iceland's first permanent settlement, offers stunning sightseeing, superb museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars, shops, and whale-watching experiences. This vibrant city is a gateway to Iceland's wilderness and adventure, including the Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Reykjavik is perfect for exploring Icelandic culture, Nordic cuisine, lively nightlife, and legendary music scenes. If you seek a vibrant city with rich culture and traditions, Reykjavik is the ideal destination for your next trip.

Highlights:

• Cultural and historical attractions including museums and art galleries.
• Vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene.
• Whale-watching tours and proximity to natural wonders.

Tips:

• Explore the city’s many museums and galleries to learn about Icelandic culture.
• Check out local festivals and events for a taste of Reykjavik’s vibrant life.
• Book whale-watching tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Number 2: Golden Circle Route

The Golden Circle is a renowned tourist route in Southern Iceland, covering approximately 300 kilometers and stretching from Reykjavik into the Southern uplands and back. It encompasses many of Iceland's natural wonders, including waterfalls, spas, geothermal areas, and volcano craters. The name "Golden Circle" originates from Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland's major waterfalls, where "Gullfoss" means "Golden Falls" in Icelandic. Key destinations along the route include Thingvellir National Park, the geothermal area in Haukadalur, and Gullfoss waterfall.

Highlights:

• Major natural wonders including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• Scenic landscapes and geological features along the route.
• Accessible day trip from Reykjavik with multiple points of interest.

Tips:

• Allocate a full day to explore the Golden Circle to fully enjoy each destination.
• Check the weather forecast and road conditions before starting your trip.
• Purchase tickets for popular sites in advance if possible to avoid long lines.

Number 1: Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is located in an 800-year-old lava field near Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland. The lagoon's milky blue waters, contrasting with the stunning black lava fields, create a mystical, otherworldly atmosphere. The blue shade of the water results from its high silica content and is rich in algae and salt. Known for its healing and soothing properties, the geothermal spa maintains an average temperature of about 37 to 39 degrees Celsius, perfect for a relaxing bath.

Highlights:

• Geothermal spa with milky blue waters and stunning lava field backdrop.
• Known for its healing and soothing properties.
• Relaxing environment with spa facilities and amenities.

Tips:

• Book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
• Bring a swimsuit and enjoy the on-site amenities including showers and changing rooms.
• Use the silica mud masks available in the lagoon for an added spa experience.

Conclusion

Iceland is a land of breathtaking contrasts and natural wonders that promise to leave every traveler spellbound. From the otherworldly landscapes of Vestrahorn and Landmannalaugar to the serene beauty of Lake Myvatn and the vibrant culture of Reykjavik, this Nordic island country offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Golden Circle, soaking in the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon, or marveling at the dramatic waterfalls like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, Iceland’s unique beauty and remarkable landscapes are sure to create unforgettable memories. Embrace the magic of Iceland and let its enchanting vistas captivate your senses and inspire your wanderlust. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel.