Iceland is a truly breathtaking country that boasts natural beauty like no other. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes and unique geological features. If you are a nature lover, hiking enthusiast, or passionate photographer, a trip to Iceland is a must.
Make sure to check weather conditions and plan your visit accordingly, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. We have selected seven ultimate highlights for your first visit to Iceland. Enjoy your trip and take in the breathtaking natural beauty of this extraordinary country that left us speechless!
The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that takes you to three iconic Icelandic destinations. Start with Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historical and geological significance. Next, visit the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, where you can witness the power and beauty of cascading water. Finally, explore the geothermal area of Geysir, home to the famous Strokkur geyser that erupts regularly. Gullfoss Waterfall was an absolute favorite of us too. Do plan so that you can spend a few hours indulging in the mighty beauty of this natural wonder.
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Charming Reykjavik
Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, is a vibrant and charming place to visit. Stroll through the city center’s colorful streets, visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, and explore the bustling harbor area. Do not miss the opportunity to soak in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, located just outside Reykjavik.
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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Located in southeast Iceland, Jökulsárlón is a breathtaking glacier lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Take a boat tour to get up close to the icebergs and enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. You may even spot seals lounging on the ice.
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The South Coast
Iceland’s South Coast is known for its dramatic landscapes and picturesque waterfalls. Visit Seljalandsfoss, a unique waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water. Nearby, you will find Skógafoss, a powerful waterfall that drops from a height of 60 meters. Further along the coast, you can explore the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, with its stunning basalt columns and towering sea stacks.
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The Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Often referred to as “Iceland in miniature,” the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers diverse landscapes and attractions. Explore the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and its nearby waterfall, Kirkjufellsfoss. Marvel at the volcanic crater of Saxhóll and visit the charming fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. Do not forget to take a walk on the beautiful Djúpalónssandur beach.
Breathtaking Lake Mývatn
Located in northern Iceland, Lake Mývatn is a volcanic wonderland with unique geological features. Explore the pseudocraters at Skútustaðir and the otherworldly landscapes of the Dimmuborgir lava formations. Relax in the Mývatn Nature Baths, a geothermal spa with stunning views over the lake. Nearby, you can also visit the powerful Dettifoss waterfall, known for its impressive volume of water.
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The Westfjords
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Westfjords offer remote and untouched landscapes. Explore the dramatic cliffs and bird colonies of Látrabjarg, Europe’s westernmost point. Visit the picturesque Dynjandi waterfall, often referred to as the “Jewel of the Westfjords.” Hike along the rugged coastline, soak in hot springs, and enjoy the tranquility of this less-explored region.
High on our wishlist is Kirkjufell, a breathtaking mountain in Iceland, invites visitors with its stunning beauty and magical ambiance. Rising above the serene Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, it creates a mesmerizing scene that captivates nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking extraordinary landscapes.
Fagradalsfjall is high on our bucket list of places to visit once the volcano becomes active again. The raw power of nature and the opportunity to experience such a unique phenomenon firsthand are truly remarkable. Exploring Fagradalsfjall is a dream we eagerly anticipate fulfilling, as it promises an exhilarating adventure that will leave an indelible mark on our souls.
Conclusion
These are just a few main highlights of Iceland you should not miss on your first visit. There is a lot more that is worth exploring. We cannot wait to embark on our next journey to Iceland and experience the incredible wonders again while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Johanna is a linguist fluent in 5 languages. She has studied and worked in several countries in Asia and Europe. Johanna is passionate about traveling, languages, different cultures, and yoga. She is a digital nomad traveling the world while teaching, creating content, and vigorously sharing her travel experiences.
The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that takes you to three iconic Icelandic destinations. Start with Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historical and geological significance. Next, visit the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, where you can witness the power and beauty of cascading water. Finally, explore the geothermal area of Geysir, home to the famous Strokkur geyser that erupts regularly. Gullfoss Waterfall was an absolute favorite of us too. Do plan so that you can spend a few hours indulging in the mighty beauty of this natural wonder.
Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, is a vibrant and charming place to visit. Stroll through the city center’s colorful streets, visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, and explore the bustling harbor area. Do not miss the opportunity to soak in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, located just outside Reykjavik.
Located in southeast Iceland, Jökulsárlón is a breathtaking glacier lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Take a boat tour to get up close to the icebergs and enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. You may even spot seals lounging on the ice.
Iceland’s South Coast is known for its dramatic landscapes and picturesque waterfalls. Visit Seljalandsfoss, a unique waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water. Nearby, you will find Skógafoss, a powerful waterfall that drops from a height of 60 meters. Further along the coast, you can explore the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, with its stunning basalt columns and towering sea stacks.
Often referred to as “Iceland in miniature,” the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers diverse landscapes and attractions. Explore the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and its nearby waterfall, Kirkjufellsfoss. Marvel at the volcanic crater of Saxhóll and visit the charming fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. Do not forget to take a walk on the beautiful Djúpalónssandur beach.
Located in northern Iceland, Lake Mývatn is a volcanic wonderland with unique geological features. Explore the pseudocraters at Skútustaðir and the otherworldly landscapes of the Dimmuborgir lava formations. Relax in the Mývatn Nature Baths, a geothermal spa with stunning views over the lake. Nearby, you can also visit the powerful Dettifoss waterfall, known for its impressive volume of water.
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Westfjords offer remote and untouched landscapes. Explore the dramatic cliffs and bird colonies of Látrabjarg, Europe’s westernmost point. Visit the picturesque Dynjandi waterfall, often referred to as the “Jewel of the Westfjords.” Hike along the rugged coastline, soak in hot springs, and enjoy the tranquility of this less-explored region.
High on our wishlist is Kirkjufell, a breathtaking mountain in Iceland, invites visitors with its stunning beauty and magical ambiance. Rising above the serene Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, it creates a mesmerizing scene that captivates nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking extraordinary landscapes.
Fagradalsfjall is high on our bucket list of places to visit once the volcano becomes active again. The raw power of nature and the opportunity to experience such a unique phenomenon firsthand are truly remarkable. Exploring Fagradalsfjall is a dream we eagerly anticipate fulfilling, as it promises an exhilarating adventure that will leave an indelible mark on our souls.
