Iceland is the second largest island in Europe after the →UK. It is called the land of fire and ice or an island of contrasts. Full of waterfalls, geysers, volcanoes and hot springs attracts millions of tourists every year. Iceland is the dream of every traveler. You are probably wondering what are the best things to see Iceland…
During your first visit, it is worth focusing on exploring the southern part of the island. You will see there amazing waterfalls, geysers and glaciers. However, preparing a travel itinerary around Iceland is challenging. The weather can be very unpredictable.
Things to see in Iceland – Waterfalls
1. Gulfoss
A huge waterfall on the route of the Golden Circle, which is on the lists of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Gulfoss in Icelandic means “golden waterfall”. On a sunny day, the water has a golden brown color. This waterfall often appears in music videos or movie scenes. You could see it among others in the TV series “Vikings”.
2. Skogafoss
The breathtaking waterfall that appears in the Vikings series when Floki discovers Iceland. Without a doubt, this is one of the most popular waterfalls on the island. The perfect proportions of the waterfall and the rainbow within reach will make you fall in love with this place.
3. Bruarfoss
Incredibly blue water from which you can’t take your eyes off. Bruarfoss is recognized as Iceland’s bluest waterfall. This hidden treasure is located on the Golden Circle route. How to find it? Park your car at the Bruarfoss Waterfall Official Parking Lot and follow the river. During the scenic trek you will also see two other beautiful waterfalls: Midfoss and Hlauptungufoss.
4. Svartifoss
A unique waterfall surrounded by basalt columns is located in the Skaftafell National Park. Also called the Black Waterfall, it became an inspiration when creating many architectural works. Its reflection can be found among others in the Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavik.
5. Oxararfoss
If you want to follow movie route of “Game of Thrones” be sure to check out this waterfall. It is located in the Thingvellir National Park, which was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004. Oxararfoss Waterfall is only 13 meters high. Despite its small size, it is often visited by tourists.
Places to visit in Iceland – Hot springs
1. Blue Lagoon
One of the 25 wonders of the world that should be on every travel wish list. The milky blue shade of water contrasting with volcanic rocks makes a huge impression. However, Blue Lagoon is not a natural phenomenon. The lagoon was created by man next to the geothermal power plant. Is it safe to swim in one of the most popular attractions of Iceland? In 1981, a man suffering from psoriasis obtained permission to swim in lagoon. It turned out that algae in water can do miracles. Six years later geothermal spa has been open. Initially, Blue Lagoon was visited by people with skin problems. However, the great location, just 15 km from the Keflavik airport, has made it the most-visited destination by tourists nowadays.
Blue Lagoon opening hours:
If you want to visit Blue Lagoon you have to book it in advance on their official → website. This is quite an expensive attraction, so it’s worth spending a little more time there. The price varies depending on season. The largest season falls on the summer period.
January 1st – May 30th 8:00-21:00
May 31st – June 27th 7:00-23:00
June 28th – August 18th 7: 00-0:00
August 19th – December 31st 8:00-21:00 (except December 24th 8:00-15:00)
After a swim in the Blue Lagoon hot springs you should try traditional Icelandic cuisine. The Lava restaurant blends in perfectly with the volcanic landscape. Huge glazing with a view of the lagoon creates an amazing atmosphere. This is a great place for a romantic dinner after a relaxing day at Blue Lagoon.
2. Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon is the oldest geothermal pool in Iceland. It is located in the small town Fludir. Despite the rapid development of island tourism this place is still little known. The swimming pool is located near the Golden Circle and is a great alternative to Blue Lagoon. The water temperature is higher there and the price is much more affordable!
Secret Lagoon opening hours:
1st October – 31st May 11:00-20:00
1st June – 30th September 10:00-22:00
Things to see in Iceland – Volcanic crater and geysers
1. Strokkur
Iceland’s largest active geyser is located in the Haukadalur Valley. An interesting fact is that Stokkur erupts 10 times more often than the most popular geyser in the world – Old Faithful. This geothermal show can be enjoyed every 5-10 minutes. Stokkur can explode even to a height of 40 meters.
2. Kerid
The volcanic lake that is located in the volcano crater is one of the attractions of the Golden Circle. In summer, the crater is overgrown with beautiful vegetation which contrasts with red volcanic sand. Unfortunately, in winter this place does not make such a great impression.
Things to see in Iceland – National Parks
1. Thingvellir National Park
Only 40 km from the capital of Iceland you can see two tectonic plates, which are separating from each other by about 2 cm per year. A large part of the surface is cracked, creating the amazing Almannagja gorge. The Thingvellir National Park has also the largest lake of Iceland with an area of 84 km².
2. Vatnajokull
Vatnajokull National Park covers 8% of the total area of Iceland. In 2008 it was connected to the smaller Skaftafell National Park. You will find here the highest peak of Iceland and the largest glacier in Europe. In this place were recorded among others “Game of Thrones” or “Interstellar”. In Vatnajokull National Park you can also visit ice caves, which are only available in winter!
Things to see in Iceland – Black beaches
1. Vik i Myrdal
A picturesque town located about 2.5 hours away from Reykjavik. Situated between dramatic cliffs it is the warmest place in whole Iceland. The black beach in Vik and Myrdal does not attract as many tourists as neighboring Reynisfjara.
2. Reynisfjara Beach
The most beautiful, but also the most dangerous beach in Iceland. Called “Chinese takeaway” by the island’s inhabitants. Huge waves that look harmless often take the lives of tourists. One of the ten waves can be much more powerful than the others. Admiring the beautiful rock formations and miles of black sand you should take care of your safety first. Never come too close to the shore on a black beach in Iceland!
3. Solheimasandur Plane Wreck
How did the Dakota DC-3 appear in the black beach? Well, it was abandoned during an emergency landing in 1973. Fortunately, all passengers managed to survive. The wreck of the plane which is in a total wasteland attracted tourists with time.
Things to see in Iceland – Architecture and art
1. Hallgrímskirkja Church
The tallest building on the island can be found in the center of Reykjavik. Iceland’s landscape elements were the main inspiration when designing the church. The basalt columns that surround the Svartifoss waterfall have had the greatest impact on the design of the Hallgrimskirkja church.
2. Harpa Concert Hall
A modern building that won the prestigious architectural price of Mies van der Rohe in 2013. The unusual glass facade inspired by the nature of Iceland delight all visitors.
3. Sun Voyager
The Sun Voyager sculpture is called the “dream boat” or “ode to the sun”. Created to stimulate the imagination and make dreams come true. It is located near the Harpa Concert Hall and was designed to celebrate the 200th birthday of the city of Reykjavik.
4. Viking World
Near the Keflavik airport there is the Viking World Museum. On the way to the museum you can see typical Icelandic houses. They look very cute, small and covered with grass.
Winter trip to Iceland
Winter is the perfect time to visit Iceland. Admiring the northern lights, hiking in glaciers or exploring ice caves are just a few attractions that are available in the winter. If you want to learn more about it, be sure to read the Iceland post → 8 reasons to visit Iceland this winter
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