Summer
Experience long days and mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
冰岛
Iceland, known for its stunning landscapes and unique geological features, offers a rich blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences beyond its capital, Reykjavik. From the Blue Lagoon to the Golden Circle, travelers can explore geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
Hansueli Krapf · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsJune to August
- AirportsKeflavik International Airport (KEF), Akureyri A
- TransitCar rental is recommended; public transport is l
- Power230V, Type F plugs
- TippingNot customary
- LanguageIcelandic, English widely spoken
01
When to go
The best time to visit is during the summer months for milder weather and extended daylight, while winter offers a chance to see the Northern Lights.
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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Winter
A magical time to see the Northern Lights and enjoy winter sports.
Autumn
Witness stunning fall colors and fewer crowds.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
City Life
Reykjavik
The vibrant capital with a mix of culture, nightlife, and history.
Busy and lively, especially in summer.
Scenic
Akureyri
Known as the 'Capital of the North', it offers beautiful gardens and a charming town center.
Quieter than Reykjavik.
Coastal
Vik
A picturesque village near black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs.
Popular with tourists, especially in summer.
Nature
Egilsstaðir
The largest town in East Iceland, serving as a gateway to the East Fjords.
Less crowded, ideal for nature lovers.
Convenient
Selfoss
A charming town located near the Golden Circle attractions.
Good base for day trips.
Adventure
Húsavík
Famous for whale watching and beautiful coastal scenery.
Best for marine enthusiasts.
Charming
Stykkishólmur
A quaint town on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, known for its stunning views.
Great for exploring nearby natural wonders.
Cultural
Borgarnes
A small town with historical significance and beautiful landscapes.
Less touristy, offers local experiences.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Lamb Soup
A traditional Icelandic dish, best found in local diners.
→ Try it on a cold day.
Skyr
A creamy yogurt-like dairy product, available in supermarkets.
→ Great for breakfast or snacks.
Fresh Seafood
Look for it in coastal towns like Vik and Húsavík.
→ Enjoy it at local fish markets.
Pylsur (Icelandic Hot Dog)
Available at street stalls, especially in Reykjavik.
→ A must-try for a quick bite.
Rúgbrauð (Dark Rye Bread)
Often served with butter or herring, found in bakeries.
→ Try it with smoked salmon.
Þorramatur (Traditional Platter)
Available during the Þorrablót festival, featuring various local delicacies.
→ Experience Icelandic culture through food.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Golden Circle
A popular tourist route featuring Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall.
Blue Lagoon
A geothermal spa known for its mineral-rich waters.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Famous for its floating icebergs and stunning views.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Known for its black sands and basalt columns.
Hallgrímskirkja
An iconic church in Reykjavik with a unique design.
Vatnajökull National Park
Home to Europe's largest glacier and diverse landscapes.
Thingvellir National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site with geological significance.
Dettifoss Waterfall
One of Europe's most powerful waterfalls.
Skaftafell National Park
Offers hiking trails and stunning glacier views.
Glymur Waterfall
The tallest waterfall in Iceland, accessible via hiking.
Akureyri Botanical Garden
A beautiful garden showcasing Icelandic flora.
Snæfellsjökull National Park
Known for its glacier and diverse ecosystems.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Keflavik International Airport
The main international gateway to Iceland, located about 50 km from Reykjavik.
KEFKEF
Akureyri Airport
The second largest airport, serving domestic flights and some international routes.
AEYAEY
Car Rentals
Renting a car is the best way to explore Iceland's diverse landscapes.
Public Transport
Buses connect major towns, but schedules can be infrequent.
Domestic Flights
Consider flying between regions for quicker travel.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Iceland uses type F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V.
Cash
Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is not necessary.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Iceland.
Language
Icelandic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore the main attractions.