Iceland is a land of dramatic contrasts where fire meets ice, creating some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes. From thundering waterfalls and black sand beaches to massive glaciers and active volcanoes, this Nordic island offers natural wonders at every turn. Planning a trip to this otherworldly destination requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to staying connected in remote areas and finding the best deals on accommodations.
Essential Iceland Travel Resources
Before diving into the best places to visit in Iceland, make sure you’re prepared with these travel essentials:
📶 Get an Iceland eSIM to Stay Connected
✈️ Find the Best Deals on Flights & Hotels
Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, hiking across lava fields, or soaking in geothermal hot springs, having reliable internet access and affordable accommodations will make your Icelandic adventure much more enjoyable. Let’s explore the 40 most breathtaking places to visit across this incredible island, organized by region to help you plan the perfect itinerary.
Reykjavík & The Capital Region
1. Reykjavík
Iceland’s vibrant capital is the perfect starting point for your adventure. This colorful, walkable city combines modern architecture with rich cultural experiences.
Why Visit: Experience Iceland’s urban heart with its blend of colorful houses, innovative cuisine, and thriving arts scene.
Key Highlights: Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, Laugavegur shopping street, National Museum of Iceland, and the Old Harbor area.
Pro Tip: Purchase a Reykjavík City Card for free entry to museums and pools, and use your Iceland eSIM to navigate the city’s public transportation system with ease.
2. Sun Voyager Sculpture
This gleaming steel sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason sits along Reykjavík’s waterfront, resembling a Viking ship while actually representing a dream boat and ode to the sun.
Why Visit: Capture stunning photos of this iconic sculpture with Mount Esja in the background, especially beautiful at sunset.
Key Highlights: Scenic coastal walking path, mountain views, and perfect photo opportunities.
Pro Tip: Visit during the midnight sun in summer for a magical experience with golden light that’s perfect for photography.
3. Perlan Museum
This distinctive glass dome sits atop hot water tanks and houses fascinating exhibitions on Iceland’s natural wonders, including a man-made ice cave.
Why Visit: Experience Iceland’s glaciers without leaving the city and enjoy 360° views from the observation deck.
Key Highlights: Indoor ice cave, Northern Lights planetarium show, Forces of Nature exhibition, and panoramic city views.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets online in advance using your eSIM connection to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist season.
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route, a 300-kilometer loop from Reykjavík that showcases three stunning natural attractions. This region can be explored in a single day but deserves more time if your schedule allows.
4. Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in a dramatic rift valley.
Why Visit: Experience a rare geological phenomenon while exploring the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament, established in 930 CE.
Key Highlights: Silfra Fissure for snorkeling between continents, Öxarárfoss waterfall, historic Law Rock, and stunning landscapes.
Pro Tip: Book your Silfra snorkeling tour in advance through travel deals sites to secure the best rates and availability.
5. Geysir Geothermal Area
Home to the famous Strokkur geyser that erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting hot water up to 30 meters into the air.
Why Visit: Witness the raw power of Iceland’s geothermal activity in a landscape of bubbling mud pots and steaming vents.
Key Highlights: Strokkur’s regular eruptions, colorful mineral deposits, the original Great Geysir, and geothermal exhibits.
Pro Tip: Position yourself downwind to avoid the sulfur smell, and keep your camera ready with your phone fully charged using your reliable eSIM connection.
6. Gullfoss Waterfall
This powerful two-tiered waterfall plunges dramatically into a rugged canyon, creating misty rainbows on sunny days.
Why Visit: Experience one of Iceland’s most magnificent waterfalls, whose name translates to “Golden Falls.”
Key Highlights: Multiple viewing platforms, rainbow sightings in the mist, and the fascinating history of Sigríður Tómasdóttir who fought to preserve the falls.
Pro Tip: Visit early morning or evening to avoid tour bus crowds, and check travel deals for combined Golden Circle tours that include all three attractions.
7. Secret Lagoon
Located in the village of Flúðir, this natural hot spring is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, offering a more authentic and less crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon.
Why Visit: Relax in naturally hot geothermal waters in a rustic setting with a small geyser that erupts every few minutes.
Key Highlights: Natural hot spring experience, small geyser, walking paths around the pool, and a more local atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Book your visit online using your Iceland eSIM to secure your spot, as this hidden gem is becoming increasingly popular.
8. Kerið Crater
A 3,000-year-old volcanic crater lake with striking red and black volcanic rock contrasting against vivid blue water.
Why Visit: Explore a perfectly formed volcanic crater with a walking path around the rim and down to the lake.
Key Highlights: Vibrant colors, unique geological formation, and easy hiking opportunities.
Pro Tip: This is one of the few attractions on the Golden Circle with an entrance fee, so check travel deals for tours that include admission in the package price.
The South Coast
Iceland’s South Coast features some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes, from powerful waterfalls to black sand beaches. This region is easily accessible from Reykjavík and can be explored on day trips or as part of a longer Ring Road journey.
9. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
This unique 60-meter waterfall allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water for a truly immersive experience.
Why Visit: Experience the rare opportunity to view a waterfall from behind, creating unforgettable photos and memories.
Key Highlights: Path leading behind the waterfall, beautiful sunset views, and the nearby hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall.
Pro Tip: Bring a waterproof jacket and protect your phone with a waterproof case, but keep your eSIM handy to share your experience instantly.
10. Skógafoss Waterfall
One of Iceland’s biggest and most beautiful waterfalls, with a 60-meter drop and a width of 25 meters, often creating single or double rainbows on sunny days.
Why Visit: Experience the raw power of this massive waterfall and climb the 527 steps to the viewing platform for spectacular views.
Key Highlights: Rainbow sightings, hiking trail at the top leading into the Highlands, and the nearby Skógar Museum.
Pro Tip: Stay nearby to visit early morning or evening when tour buses are gone, and check hotel deals in the area for the best rates.
11. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
This stunning black sand beach near Vík features dramatic basalt columns, powerful waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean.
Why Visit: Experience one of the world’s most beautiful non-tropical beaches with its otherworldly volcanic landscape.
Key Highlights: Basalt column cave, black sand, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and powerful Atlantic waves.
Pro Tip: Never turn your back to the ocean as sneaker waves are extremely dangerous. Stay connected with your eSIM to check tide times and safety information.
12. Dyrhólaey
A massive black arch of lava standing in the sea near Vík, offering breathtaking views of the South Coast and serving as a nesting site for puffins in summer.
Why Visit: Capture panoramic views of black sand beaches, glaciers, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks while spotting puffins (May-August).
Key Highlights: Natural stone arch, lighthouse, puffin colonies, and spectacular coastal views.
Pro Tip: The road to the top can be rough, so consider booking a tour through travel deals sites if you don’t have a 4×4 vehicle.
13. Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
The hauntingly beautiful wreckage of a US Navy DC-3 plane that crashed on a black sand beach in 1973 (everyone survived).
Why Visit: Capture otherworldly photos of this eerie plane wreck against the stark black sand landscape.
Key Highlights: Unique photography opportunity, surreal landscape, and interesting history.
Pro Tip: The walk from the parking lot takes about 45 minutes each way. Check shuttle options online using your Iceland eSIM to save time and energy.
14. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
A magnificent 100-meter deep and 2-kilometer long canyon formed during the Ice Age, with moss-covered walls and a winding river below.
Why Visit: Hike along the rim for spectacular views of this serpentine canyon that looks like something from a fantasy film.
Key Highlights: Multiple viewpoints, hiking paths, and breathtaking photo opportunities.
Pro Tip: The canyon sometimes closes for environmental protection, so check status online using your eSIM before visiting.
Southeast Iceland & Vatnajökull National Park
15. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
A breathtaking glacial lake filled with icebergs that have broken off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, creating a constantly changing landscape.
Why Visit: Witness massive blue icebergs floating in the lagoon and possibly spot seals swimming among them.
Key Highlights: Boat tours among the icebergs, seal watching, and the nearby Diamond Beach.
Pro Tip: Book amphibian boat or zodiac tours in advance through travel deals sites during peak season (May-September) to avoid disappointment.
16. Diamond Beach
Located just across the road from Jökulsárlón, this black sand beach is dotted with crystal-clear ice chunks that have washed ashore from the glacier lagoon.
Why Visit: Marvel at the stunning contrast between diamond-like ice pieces and black volcanic sand in this natural sculpture gallery.
Key Highlights: Ice photography, ever-changing ice formations, and beautiful sunrise/sunset opportunities.
Pro Tip: Visit at different times of day as lighting dramatically changes the appearance of the ice. Share your photos instantly with friends using your reliable eSIM connection.
17. Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park)
A wilderness area within Vatnajökull National Park offering glacier hikes, ice caves (in winter), and beautiful hiking trails.
Why Visit: Experience the diverse landscapes of Europe’s largest national park, from glaciers to forests and waterfalls.
Key Highlights: Svartifoss waterfall with basalt columns, glacier hiking tours, and extensive hiking trails.
Pro Tip: Book glacier hikes or ice cave tours (winter only) in advance through travel deals as they often sell out, especially in peak season.
18. Svartifoss Waterfall
Known as the “Black Falls,” this unique waterfall is surrounded by dark hexagonal basalt columns that inspired the design of Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík.
Why Visit: See one of Iceland’s most architecturally interesting waterfalls after a pleasant hike through Skaftafell.
Key Highlights: Distinctive basalt columns, beautiful hiking trail, and views of the surrounding glaciers.
Pro Tip: The hike to Svartifoss takes about 45 minutes each way from the Skaftafell Visitor Center. Download offline maps using your eSIM before hiking.
19. Vatnajökull Ice Caves
Natural ice caves form beneath Europe’s largest glacier during winter, creating surreal blue chambers that can only be visited with certified guides.
Why Visit: Experience the otherworldly beauty of natural ice formations inside a glacier, with vibrant blue colors and unique textures.
Key Highlights: Crystal blue ice, unique ice formations, and professional photography opportunities.
Pro Tip: Ice caves are only accessible from November to March. Book well in advance through travel deals sites as these tours sell out quickly.
20. Vestrahorn Mountain
This dramatic 454-meter mountain on the Stokksnes peninsula features sharp peaks rising above a black sand beach, creating one of Iceland’s most photogenic landscapes.
Why Visit: Capture stunning photos of this jagged mountain range reflected in the wet black sand during low tide.
Key Highlights: Viking village film set, black sand beach, reflective photography, and wild landscape.
Pro Tip: There’s a small entrance fee as this is on private land. Check tide times using your eSIM to visit during low tide for the best reflection photos.
The Eastfjords
21. Seyðisfjörður
A charming coastal town nestled between mountains, known for its rainbow-painted street, colorful Norwegian-style wooden houses, and thriving arts scene.
Why Visit: Experience one of Iceland’s most picturesque towns with its blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Key Highlights: Rainbow road leading to the blue church, arts center in an old fish factory, cascading waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.
Pro Tip: Check ferry schedules using your eSIM if arriving from Europe, as this is where the Smyril Line ferry from Denmark docks.
22. Stuðlagil Canyon
A relatively new attraction revealed when water levels dropped after the construction of a hydroelectric plant, featuring stunning basalt columns and a turquoise glacial river.
Why Visit: Explore one of Iceland’s newest and most impressive natural attractions, still relatively unknown to mass tourism.
Key Highlights: Massive basalt column formations, turquoise river, and hiking opportunities.
Pro Tip: There are two viewing points—the east side is easier to access but the west side offers better views after a longer hike. Check travel deals for guided tours if you’re unsure about navigation.
23. Hengifoss Waterfall
Iceland’s third-highest waterfall at 128 meters, distinguished by the red clay layers between basalt in the cliff face behind the falls.
Why Visit: Witness the unique geological layers and enjoy a rewarding hike with views of multiple waterfalls.
Key Highlights: Distinctive red clay striations, Litlanesfoss waterfall with basalt columns on the same trail, and beautiful valley views.
Pro Tip: The hike takes about 45-60 minutes each way. Download offline maps using your eSIM and bring water and snacks as there are no services at the falls.
24. Borgarfjörður Eystri
A remote village offering some of Iceland’s best puffin viewing (May-August) and the chance to spot wild reindeer, the only place in Iceland where they roam.
Why Visit: Get close to puffins at the specially built viewing platforms and experience authentic rural Iceland.
Key Highlights: Hafnarhólmi puffin colony, hiking trails, Álfaborg (Elf Rock), and potential reindeer sightings.
Pro Tip: The road to this village can be challenging. Check road conditions using your eSIM before setting out, especially outside summer months.
North Iceland
25. Lake Mývatn
A geologically diverse area shaped by volcanic eruptions, featuring pseudocraters, lava formations, geothermal areas, and rich birdlife.
Why Visit: Experience a concentrated area of volcanic and geothermal wonders in one accessible location.
Key Highlights: Dimmuborgir lava formations, Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters, Hverfjall crater, and the Mývatn Nature Baths.
Pro Tip: The area can have midges in summer (the name Mývatn means “midge lake”). Book accommodations with travel deals sites that offer screened windows.
26. Mývatn Nature Baths
Often called the “Blue Lagoon of the North,” these geothermal baths offer a more relaxed and less crowded experience than their famous southern counterpart.
Why Visit: Relax in mineral-rich geothermal waters with panoramic views of Lake Mývatn and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Key Highlights: Milky blue waters, steam rooms, relaxation areas, and stunning views.
Pro Tip: Book your visit online using your Iceland eSIM to secure your spot, especially during peak summer months.
27. Dettifoss Waterfall
Europe’s most powerful waterfall, with an average water flow of 193 cubic meters per second plunging 45 meters into the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.
Why Visit: Feel the raw power of nature as the ground trembles beneath your feet from the force of the falling water.
Key Highlights: Massive water volume, impressive canyon views, and nearby Selfoss waterfall.
Pro Tip: The waterfall can be accessed from both east and west sides. The east side has a paved road while the west offers better views but rougher access. Check road conditions using your eSIM before deciding which approach to take.
28. Húsavík
Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of Europe,” this charming fishing town offers some of the best cetacean sightings in Iceland.
Why Visit: Experience world-class whale watching with high success rates for spotting humpbacks, minkes, and even blue whales in summer.
Key Highlights: Whale watching tours, Húsavíkurkirkja (wooden church), GeoSea sea baths, and the Whale Museum.
Pro Tip: Book whale watching tours in advance through travel deals sites to secure your spot, especially during peak season (May-September).
29. Goðafoss Waterfall
The “Waterfall of the Gods” earned its name when Iceland’s lawspeaker threw his pagan idols into the falls upon converting to Christianity in 1000 CE.
Why Visit: Admire the horseshoe-shaped falls that span 30 meters wide and drop 12 meters into the glacial river below.
Key Highlights: Historical significance, accessible viewing points on both sides, and beautiful basalt formations.
Pro Tip: Visit both sides of the falls for different perspectives. The east side is less crowded but requires a short hike. Share your experience instantly with your reliable eSIM connection.
30. Akureyri
Iceland’s “Capital of the North” is a charming city nestled at the head of Eyjafjörður, the country’s longest fjord, offering cultural attractions and access to northern highlights.
Why Visit: Experience urban amenities in a picturesque setting with a distinctive heart-shaped traffic light and vibrant cultural scene.
Key Highlights: Akureyrarkirkja (church), botanical gardens, art museum, Christmas House, and winter skiing.
Pro Tip: Consider flying to Akureyri from Reykjavík to save driving time. Check flight deals for affordable domestic flights.
The Westfjords
31. Dynjandi Waterfall
Often considered Iceland’s most beautiful waterfall, this cascading “Thunderer” widens as it descends, creating a unique bridal veil appearance.
Why Visit: Marvel at the distinctive shape of this 100-meter waterfall that widens from 30 meters at the top to 60 meters at the bottom.
Key Highlights: Series of smaller waterfalls below the main cascade, hiking trail, and fjord views.
Pro Tip: The Westfjords roads can be challenging. Check road conditions using your eSIM before setting out, especially in shoulder seasons.
32. Rauðisandur Beach
Unlike Iceland’s typical black sand beaches, this stunning 10-kilometer stretch features red-golden sand that changes color with the light and tide.
Why Visit: Experience a unique color palette rarely seen in Iceland’s predominantly volcanic landscapes.
Key Highlights: Color-changing sands, seals, birdlife, and the French Café in an old farmhouse.
Pro Tip: Visit at low tide when the beach is at its widest. Check tide times online using your eSIM to plan your visit.
33. Látrabjarg Bird Cliffs
Europe’s largest bird cliff and westernmost point in Iceland, home to millions of seabirds including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots.
Why Visit: Get remarkably close to puffins (May-August) who have little fear of humans at this remote location.
Key Highlights: Massive seabird colonies, puffin photography, dramatic cliff views, and lighthouse.
Pro Tip: Stay back from the cliff edge as it can be unstable. Book accommodations nearby through travel deals sites to visit during early morning or evening when puffins are most active.
34. Ísafjörður
The largest town in the Westfjords, nestled between steep mountains on a narrow strip of land in a dramatic fjord setting.
Why Visit: Experience the culture and history of this remote region while enjoying excellent seafood and access to outdoor adventures.
Key Highlights: Old town with wooden houses, maritime museum, kayaking in the fjord, and hiking opportunities.
Pro Tip: Consider flying to Ísafjörður from Reykjavík to save driving time. Check flight deals for affordable domestic flights.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
35. Kirkjufell Mountain
Iceland’s most photographed mountain, with its distinctive arrow-head shape rising 463 meters from the northern shore of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Why Visit: Capture iconic photos of this uniquely shaped mountain with Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall in the foreground.
Key Highlights: Perfect photography composition with mountain and waterfall, northern lights viewing spot in winter, and Game of Thrones filming location.
Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best light. Share your photos instantly with friends using your reliable eSIM connection.
36. Snæfellsjökull National Park
Dominated by the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano that inspired Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth,” this park offers diverse landscapes in a compact area.
Why Visit: Experience the mystical energy of this area while exploring lava tubes, black beaches, and the iconic glacier.
Key Highlights: Snæfellsjökull glacier, Djúpalónssandur black pebble beach, Vatnshellir Cave, and basalt cliffs.
Pro Tip: Book glacier tours or lava cave explorations in advance through travel deals sites to secure your spot.
37. Arnarstapi
A small fishing village with spectacular coastal scenery, including basalt columns, stone arches, and abundant birdlife.
Why Visit: Walk along the dramatic coastline with its unique geological formations and enjoy views of Snæfellsjökull glacier.
Key Highlights: Gatklettur stone arch, basalt columns, Bárður Snæfellsás statue, and coastal hiking trail to Hellnar.
Pro Tip: The 2.5 km coastal path between Arnarstapi and Hellnar offers some of the peninsula’s best views. Download offline maps using your eSIM before hiking.
Reykjanes Peninsula
38. Blue Lagoon
Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa, where mineral-rich, milky-blue waters contrast dramatically with surrounding black lava fields.
Why Visit: Relax in the warm, healing waters rich in silica and algae, known for their beneficial effects on the skin.
Key Highlights: Geothermal bathing, silica mud masks, in-water massage, luxury spa treatments, and restaurants.
Pro Tip: Book well in advance through travel deals sites, especially if you want premium packages. Visit early morning or evening to avoid the largest crowds.
39. Bridge Between Continents
A small footbridge spanning the visible rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, allowing you to walk between two continents.
Why Visit: Experience the unique geological phenomenon of standing between two continents and learn about Iceland’s tectonic activity.
Key Highlights: Visible tectonic divide, informational signs, certificate of crossing available, and surrounding lava fields.
Pro Tip: This is a quick stop near Keflavík Airport, making it perfect for your arrival or departure day. Share your continental crossing photos instantly using your eSIM.
40. Fagradalsfjall Volcano
Site of recent eruptions (2021-2023) on the Reykjanes Peninsula, offering the rare opportunity to witness active volcanism in a relatively accessible location.
Why Visit: Experience the raw power of Iceland’s volcanic nature with potential views of fresh lava fields or even active eruptions.
Key Highlights: Hiking trails to viewing areas, fresh lava fields, and possible active eruptions (check current status).
Pro Tip: Volcanic activity is unpredictable. Check current conditions using your eSIM before visiting, and consider booking guided volcano tours for the safest experience.
Planning Your Perfect Iceland Adventure
Iceland’s diverse landscapes offer something for every traveler, from casual sightseers to hardcore adventurers. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls along the South Coast, exploring remote fjords in the east and west, or witnessing the geological wonders of the Golden Circle, this island nation promises unforgettable experiences around every corner.
As you plan your Icelandic adventure, remember that staying connected is essential for navigating remote areas, checking road conditions, and making last-minute bookings. An Iceland eSIM provides reliable connectivity throughout your journey, even in the most remote regions like the Highlands and Westfjords.
Additionally, Iceland can be an expensive destination, so taking advantage of travel deals for flights and accommodations will help you maximize your budget while experiencing the best this remarkable country has to offer.
Ready for Your Iceland Adventure?
Make your trip planning easier with these essential resources:
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or embarking on a complete Ring Road adventure, Iceland’s natural wonders will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. From the midnight sun of summer to the northern lights of winter, the land of fire and ice awaits your exploration!
