If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable travel destination, you should consider visiting Iceland. Iceland is a Nordic island country in the North Atlantic Ocean and in the Arctic Ocean. It is the most sparsely populated country in Europe, but also one of the most beautiful and diverse. Iceland is known for its stunning natural wonders, such as volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, glaciers, waterfalls, and fjords. It also has a rich culture and history, with many museums, art galleries, festivals, and landmarks to explore. In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the top places to visit in Iceland and give you some tips on how to make the most of your trip.
Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the capital and largest city of Iceland, and the gateway to many other attractions in the country. Reykjavik is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, with a lot of charm and character. You can admire the colorful houses, the modern architecture, and the public art that decorate the city streets. You can also visit some of the iconic landmarks, such as Hallgrimskirkja church, which is inspired by a basalt rock formation; the Sun Voyager sculpture, which symbolizes the spirit of exploration; and the Harpa Concert Hall, which has a stunning glass facade. Reykjavik is also a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine, with many museums, restaurants, bars, and shops to choose from. You can also enjoy some of the outdoor activities that Reykjavik offers, such as whale and puffin watching tours in Faxafloi Bay or relaxing in one of the 17 thermal pools that dot the city.
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a popular sightseeing route that covers some of the most famous natural attractions in Iceland. You can easily do this route as a day trip from Reykjavik, or spend more time exploring each stop along the way. The Golden Circle consists of three main attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that marks the boundary between two tectonic plates. It is also the site of the first parliament in Iceland, dating back to 930 AD. Geysir Geothermal Area is home to several hot springs and geysers that erupt regularly, creating an impressive spectacle of steam and water. The most famous geyser is Strokkur, which shoots up to 30 meters high every few minutes. Gullfoss waterfall is one of the most powerful and majestic waterfalls in Iceland. It cascades down two steps into a deep canyon, creating a rainbow on sunny days.
The South Coast
The South Coast of Iceland is another scenic route that showcases some of the best natural wonders in the country. You can drive along this route from Reykjavik and stop at various points of interest along the way. Some of the highlights include Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, which are both stunning and accessible; Reynisfjara black sand beach, which is surrounded by basalt columns and sea stacks; and Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which famously erupted in 2010 and disrupted air travel across Europe. If you have more time, you can continue further along the South Coast and visit Skaftafell Nature Reserve and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Skaftafell Nature Reserve is part of Vatnajokull National Park and offers many hiking trails and views of glaciers and mountains. Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is a glacial lake that is filled with icebergs that calve from Vatnajokull glacier. You can take a boat tour on the lagoon or walk along the shore to admire the ice formations.
Akureyri
Akureyri is a town in northern Iceland that is often called the capital of North Iceland. It is Iceland’s fifth-largest municipality and the largest town outside of Reykjavik. Akureyri is located on the shores of Eyjafjordur fjord, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea. Akureyri is a cultural hub that hosts many festivals, events, and exhibitions throughout the year. You can visit some of the museums and art galleries in town, such as Akureyri Museum, Akureyri Art Museum, or Icelandic Phallological Museum (yes, it’s exactly what you think it is). You can also enjoy some of the outdoor activities that Akureyri offers, such as skiing at Hlidarfjall Akureyri ski resort or whale watching tours on Eyjafjordur fjord.
These are just some of the amazing places to visit in Iceland. There are many more to discover, depending on your interests and preferences. Iceland is a country that will surprise and delight you with its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and friendly people. If you are planning to visit Iceland, make sure to book your accommodation and tours in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Also, be prepared for the weather, which can be unpredictable and changeable. Pack layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes.
Iceland has several airports, but the main one is Keflavik International Airport (KEF), located about 50 km from the capital Reykjavik. Here are some tips to make your arrival and departure smooth and easy.
– Check the weather before you fly. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable and affect your flight schedule. You can use the website vedur.is to see the latest forecasts and warnings.
– Arrive early for your flight. The airport can get busy, especially during peak seasons. You should arrive at least two hours before your departure time to check in, go through security, and board your plane.
– Exchange some money at the airport. Iceland uses the Icelandic krona (ISK) as its currency. You can find ATMs and currency exchange booths at the airport, but they might charge high fees or offer unfavorable rates. It’s a good idea to exchange some money at the airport for emergencies, but use your credit or debit card for most of your transactions.
– Rent a car or take a bus to Reykjavik. The airport is not connected to the city by public transport, so you have two options: rent a car or take a bus. Renting a car gives you more flexibility and freedom to explore the country, but it can be expensive and require an international driving license. Taking a bus is cheaper and easier, but it can take longer and have limited schedules. You can book your bus ticket online or buy it at the airport.
– Enjoy your stay in Iceland! Iceland is a beautiful and unique country with many attractions and activities to offer. Whether you want to see the Northern Lights, soak in a hot spring, hike a glacier, or visit a museum, you will find something to suit your taste and budget. Have fun and be respectful of the nature and culture of Iceland.