Renting a Campervan in Iceland? There are myriad large and small lava caves, tubes and tunnels around Iceland, too, all of which reveal surprising colors and formations like stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over hundreds of years. And you can combine it with even more of the best places to visit in Europe! It's neither chlorinated nor fluorinated, simply because there's no need to do so. These are the 14 best things to do in Iceland in 2023. Suppose you want some amazing Iceland cuisine, head to Reykjavik for a great date night out. If you want a transfer from the airport as you are short on time, heres a good tour. A boiling, bubbling landscape, the Krsuvk Geothermal Area is where hot springs and steaming vents are the norm. If youd prefer to stick to Iceland, you can always arrange some multi-day trips. Head here around sunset or during the midnight sun for an unreal scene as the sun glistens off the ice. Irish monks (called Papar in Icelandic) were thought to have created them before or around the time the first settlers arrived in the country, though the theory lacks sufficient archaeological evidence. Thats no typo, folks: surfing is one of the most adventurous and rewarding things to do in Iceland as the water breaks over the volcanic reef and basalt rocks, it dishes up waves that are unpredictable and powerful. Enjoy an unforgettable adventure in the Land of Ice and Fire on this south Iceland day trip! Just outside the remote village of Palokkl, one can find an enormous construction project a stone circle on the hill that makes the UKs famous Stonehenge look like a mere childs toy. It all feels like another planet and makes for amazing landscape photography opportunities. Most of the snowmobiles have room for two, meaning you can swap between going full-throttle and taking control, or enjoying the stunning landscape views. After multi-day excursions and plenty of hiking, you must be hungry, right? Its fun to see the beautiful church from the outside, but once inside, youll hear chords from the gargantuan pipe organ. Reykavik to Akureyri - 2 days /1 night enroute - help please yesterday. The lagoon has formed over time from the massive glacier above; as the glacier melts, cool glacier water and icebergs mix with the ocean. It is a tourist trap and overpriced. Surfing in Iceland? Check Out the Beautiful Architectures of Republic Square. Even though Thrihnukagigur is dormant, volcanoes are still naturally unpredictable, so a guided tour is crucial. Landmannalaugar, found over in the gorgeous Fjallabak Nature Reserve, is quickly causing a stir among tourist circles: Its caramel-colored peaks juxtaposed with pure blue sky deliver one of the most jaw-dropping views in the area. The oft-overlooked museum showcases incredible relics from Aalstrti that date back to before 871, including part of a tenth-century longhouse one of the hundreds of artifacts that showcase how Iceland looked 1000 years ago. THE TOP 20 Reykjavik Tours & Excursions in 2023 Known for its unpredictable and powerful eruptions, the Hekla Volcano sits smack-bang in the heart of Iceland, inviting adventure-oriented tourists to its walls for a range of unforgettable hiking trails. Explore Reykjavik 4. 12 Best Things To Do In Iceland In 2023 - Experience Iceland Theres no excuse: viewing the Aurora Borealis is an essential northern hemisphere activity, and very few places can compete with the dazzling light show on display in Iceland. In the East, the Strur trail which takes about 5 hours attracts hikers in growing numbers for its turquoise ponds trapped by huge boulders. Whats better than telling your friends back home you went ice climbing in Iceland? LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Ice Exploration Tour from Jkulsrln. Theres no better way to experience the cultural side of the island than by visiting the Iceland National Museum, home to more than 400 years worth of fascinating history. If youre already had your fix of hiking, why not take to the waters and kayak instead? Operators in Dalvk and Akureyri also take hopeful whale spotters out on daily excursions. With a flavor distinctly different to their American counterparts, the Icelandic Hot Dogs are made mostly of grass-fed Icelandic lamb thanks largely to Icelands massive sheep population, mixed with a little beef and pork (it is a hot dog, after all). Its truly like walking on another planet! Its easily accessible year-round, with a range of small group and private tours departing from Reykjavik. Glacier Lagoon 4,691 Bodies of Water 2022 4. Arguably the most Instagrammed natural spa on the planet (although Budapest might have something to say about that), the geothermal hot spring that is the Blue Lagoon welcomes close to 1.3 million visitors per annum. This is one of the best things to do in Iceland in the winter months when the night sky is dark (October April is the best time to see the Aurora in Iceland). This is just one of the many adventures that you can undertake with a Reykjavik City Card. Whether you follow the folklore or not, when the sky over Reynisfjara turns from dark and cloudy to sunny within minutes, youll be blown away by the startling imagery! 2,000+ places sorted by traveller favourites. You either love or hate The Blue Lagoon. Looking for a quick break from city life while staying in Reykjavik? We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. Black beaches arent something seen every day unless youre touring around Iceland. If you're looking for solitude, the Canyon Baths by Hsafell include a guided hike through stunning Icelandic wilderness followed by a dip in the secluded geothermal pools. If youre visiting the land of Fire and Ice, it only seems fitting that you should see a bit of both. A range of pre-organized Kerid Crater tours operate from the city depending on your time and budget, choose from trips that include stops at geysers, the Blue Lagoon, or a local farm! At this crowd favorite, the plants are bright in color, the atmosphere is calm, and there are plenty of old buildings worth exploring too. Vk Baths near Egilsstair features geothermal pools floating in Urriavatn Lake. Reynisfjara, near Vik, is probably the most well-known and visitedblack sand beach in Iceland, and it is easily accessible from Reykjavik. Seeing the northern lights in on many travelers bucket list. The baths water flows at a toasty 100C (212F), offering the perfect chance to rest those weary legs after a few days of traveling or hiking. Write a review. Plus, you can have some utterly unique adventures, like walking (or diving) between two continents! After learning about the architecture, art, and unusual stories of the region, youll have plenty of fun facts to entertain you as you go exploring! Once viewed primarily as a stopover destination en route from Europe to the US or vice versa, the Land of Fire and Ice has since established itself as one of, if not the most naturally ravishing nation in the Northern Hemisphere scratch that, on the planet. And, of course, youll be able to navigate the fissure itself, as the waters of two continents wash over you. If you're not keen on skiing, you can take a thrilling sleigh ride down the mountain in a custom-made toboggan. If you'd rather explore Iceland on a bike, popular trails include the geothermal valley Reykjadalur by Hverageri and the emerald green landscape around Kirkjubjaklaustur, where Iceland Bike Farm is based. A major drag in downtown Reykjavik that consist of shops, eateries, groceries, tourist info, and souvenir shops so it. There are plenty of tours in the capital region, but Hsavk (yes, that Hsavk ), the oldest settlement in Iceland, is known to be Iceland's whale-watching capital. booking glacier hike/boat - Iceland Forum - Tripadvisor For an Icelandic cooking experience to recreate over and over again, immerse yourself into the nations traditional culinary culture by cooking up one of three courses. Through the horse's movements, you connect with nature in a new way, and you feel incredibly free as you gallop along narrow dirt paths or across shallow lakes. Its an utterly unique and profound experience! Find what to do today, this weekend, or in May. Going to the top ofHallgrmskirkja Church is the best thing to do in Reykjavik, Iceland. Backpacking EUROPE: How Much Will it Cost? Learn more about Natasha Alden on The World Pursuit About Us Page. We have reviews of the best places to see in Castlerock. If you have ever been to Plitvice Lakes in Croatia, we felt Hraunfossar was very similar, just on a smaller scale. Guaranteed. Seljalandsfoss, one of the main attractions on the South Coast, stands at a height of around 60 meters and is absolutely breathtaking. Kirkjufellsfoss is a great point of interest in Iceland. Depending on your budget, consider combining a dive with a trip to the Blue Lagoon too. In Seyisfjrur, Tvsngur is a fascinating musical sculpture by German artist Lukas Khne. Rent a car or join an organized tour either way, be sure to check this place off the list of things to do in Iceland. Tour operators offer anything from one-hour tours for beginners to multi-day tours for experienced riders in different regions of the country in varied landscapes. The backcountry skiing season lasts through May, with a range of tours on offer, including skiing from the mountaintop to the shore. On Diamond Beach, you can watch the giant ice pieces crash into the ocean waves. A mountain ridge sandwiched between two enormous glaciers, the Hidden Valley of Thor Thorsmork exudes a natural beauty that simply needs to be seen to be believed. You can spend your days hiking through the valley and basalt rock columns, or you could take a break to explore its blushing blue glacier river in Jkuldalur Valley. Paddleboarding is becoming a popular activity in Akureyri. Both of these powerful falls can be seen on pre-arranged tours. What tourists often find most valuable, however, is the Northern Lights photo simulator: here, visitors are taught how to adjust their camera settings to best capture the magic, as to not waste valuable seconds when out in the open. If you do plan on visiting, be sure to keep a safe distance. She is an expert in travel, budgeting, and finding unique experiences. booking glacier hike/boat 3:54 pm. The best part is you dont have to travel far to get to them! Private Day Tour from Reykjavik, South Coast. By Africancrab. Other top recommendations includeMatur og drykkurand Moss at the Blue Lagoon, whichboth emphasize New Nordic dishes with fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. And if you ever feel the need to go indoors, you can learn about the famous Viking settlers, or visit some remarkable museums. This is one of my top travel tips for Iceland. She has been traveling for over 10 years, across 7 continents, experiencing unique cultures, new food, and meeting fantastic people. The beauty and rarity of the area can be appreciated even if youre not a professional diver, thanks to a plethora of beginner snorkeling tours available too. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions.