WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Iceland Travel Guide

Embark on an adventure of icy wonders with my Iceland Travel Guide, your ultimate resource for uncovering the enchanting landscapes and unique experiences of this captivating island nation.

ICELAND UNVEILED

A Land of Fire and Ice Worth Every Bit of the Hype

Iceland – the land of fire and ice. I would always hear such great things about it. Everyone would say it’s one of the most amazing countries they’ve been to, and I never heard anything but good things. As you visit more and more places in the world, you become harder to impress, so I honestly thought maybe Iceland would be overhyped. It only took me until my second day there to say – okay, this place is 100% absolutely worth the hype!

This country has it ALL! From snow-capped mountains, to giant waterfalls, to the Northern Lights, it just feels like you can visit over and over and it will never be enough. I was in constant awe every time I would visit an attraction. It’s just absolutely, stunningly beautiful. Iceland is also considered the safest country in the world, so as a solo female traveler, that’s a major plus!

If I could only use one word to describe the country, I would probably say “magical.” “Expensive” would be a close second! Seriously though, it IS expensive. You can find ways to make it more budget-friendly, like renting a car with friends or camping, but you should still prepare for some big price tags. It’s worth it though, so do what you gotta do to make it work within your budget to come here!

VANESSA'S INSIDER TIPS

My Travel Tips for Iceland

Visa Requirements

I did not need a visa when I went, but starting 2025 Europe is implementing ETIAS for U.S. citizens, which means you’ll need to apply for this before your trip.

Learn More >>

Local currency

Local currency is the Icelandic Krona.

Check out this currency converter!

Language

The official language is Icelandic, but everybody speaks English.

Plugs

If coming from the States, you will need a converter and adapter.

An adapter allows you connect two different plugs or sockets that aren’t compatible. If you look at the plug on your iPhone charger for example, you would see it won’t fit in European sockets. So, the adapter allows that connection.

Get an adapter here>>

A converter is really only needed if you are going to be using high voltage items from the U.S., like a laptop or hairdryer. If you aren’t going to be using anything with high voltage, then just an adapter is fine!

Get a converter here >>

Iceland Essentials

You will likely need to buy some essentials specifically for Iceland. It’s cold all year round, so you’ll need to make sure you have the right outerwear! Plus, having the right shoes will allow you to be comfortable in the terrain. Here are some things I recommend that you’ll need when visiting Iceland:

I personally go with Canada Goose when it comes to winter gear, but I know it’s super pricey. Here is a good alternative from Amazon.

Get Your Coat Here >>

Make sure you layer up when getting dressed. I found that having one of these layers underneath my outfit kept me warm:

Get your base layer here >>

You’ll absolutely need a hat to keep your head and ears warm! Get some in a few colors here:

Get your hat here >>

I wore my snow shoes almost every day in Iceland. If you’re buying them for the first time, please break them in before your trip! Here’s a good pair:

Get your snow shoes here >>

The night I saw the Northern Lights, I thought my hands and toes were going to fall off from the cold! Get a cheap box of body warmers to help you while you’re chasing them:

Get your body warmers here >>

When to Go

It’s easy – if you want to see the Northern Lights, go between September – April. Keep in mind this means there will be less sunlight than the other months.

I went at the end of February and it was perfect – I still got a good 8 hours of sunlight and was able to see the Northern Lights!

June – September is Summer in Iceland and is very appealing due to its warmer weather and midnight sun.

How To Get Around

In Reykjavik, you can walk everywhere or easily take the public bus. To get around Iceland, you’ll need to either rent a car or do day trips.

DISCOVER ICELAND

My Recommended Itinerary for Iceland Travel

Vanessa's Quick Thoughts

I visited Iceland as a solo trip in the winter time. For those reasons, I decided against renting a car. I didn’t want to be stuck somewhere or caught in a snowstorm all alone!

This led to me basing myself in Reykjavik and just doing day tours. This meant I was limited to only the Southern Coast and a couple spots in the Southeast, since that’s about as far as you can drive from Reykjavik within a day.

My entire trip was 8 full days and I still didn’t get to see everything I wanted. However, since I jam packed so many things into my itinerary and the drives were so long, I eventually got burnt out. I don’t regret doing my trip this way at all, but if you’re going to base yourself in Reykjavik and just do day tours, I would plan to have some rest days.

I think 8-10 full days is enough to see the highlights that are accessible to you from Reykjavik! If you’re super pressed for time, then I do think you can do 3-4 days, you’ll just have to decide what’s most important for you to see – I’d recommend 1 day exploring Reykjavik, 1 day doing the Golden Circle, and 1 day exploring Southern Iceland.

Expert Tip

My Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Iceland and Renting a Car

If you decide to rent a car, then after you’re done hanging out in Reykjavik, follow the yellow brick road! In this case, it’s called the Ring Road. The Ring Road is Iceland’s main road that goes all around the country. This allows you to go beyond the popular Southern Coast and visit the lesser known parts of Iceland. If you do the Ring Road, it’s recommended you spend 10-14 days driving around the country. I’ll list out the main attractions on the Ring Road further down below!

ICELAND ADVENTURES

What to do in Iceland

Iceland has a million things to do, but here’s what I recommend for Iceland:

Reykjavik Attractions

Blue Lagoon

I’m sure you’ve all seen the Insta pics of the blue water from this lagoon! It’s one of Iceland’s most famous attractions. It’s well worth it to come here and enjoy the man-made geothermal spa – and get that epic Insta picture too!

The water is rich in minerals like silica and sulfur – because of this, please put the conditioner that’s provided in the shower because the water can ruin your hair! I didn’t put any in, but just put my hair up, and was fine. But if you plan on getting your hair wet then definitely use it.

The Blue Lagoon is about 15 minutes away from the Reykjavik airport, so it’s recommended you go either on your way to or from the airport. I decided to go first thing when I landed, so I could relax while I waited for my hotel room. When you book your ticket, you’re given the option to add transportation. If you do, then you’ll catch the Destination Blue Lagoon bus right outside the airport. After a 15-minute drive, you’ll arrive!

I got the most basic package – the only differences with Premium are that you get a bathrobe, 2 drinks, and 2 facial masks. With the Comfort package, which is what I did, you only get a towel, 1 drink, and 1 facial mask.

By the time I put my luggage in storage and changed and showered, it was about 9:30 AM. I then spent the next few hours enjoying the 100 degree Fahrenheit water. FYI because of the steam, I found the best spot for pictures to be to the right of the lagoon, closer to where you get your complimentary drink. After a few hours, I went to the sauna and steam room, which are included in your day pass.

Overall, I spent 3 full hours enjoying the facilities and felt that was sufficient time for me. There is also a Cafe, restaurant, and Spa should you want to explore those as well.

Sky Lagoon

Iceland is full of lagoons, and Sky Lagoon is another popular one.

The reason I wanted to visit this one and what sets it apart is you can do what’s called the Seven Step Ritual: lagoon, cold plunge, sauna, cold mist, body scrub, steam room, then shower.

Honestly, it was a cool experience and I liked it, but I don’t think you need to do this AND the Blue Lagoon. I would just pick one.

When booking your pass, you can also book transportation since this is a little outside of Reykjavik.

Visit the beach as part of a tour to Southern Iceland:

Rainbow Street

Back in 2015, Reykjavik decided to paint one of its main streets in rainbow colors to celebrate Reykjavik Gay Pride.

The street is lined with restaurants, stores, souvenir shops, etc.

It’s one of the busiest streets so even if you aren’t looking for it, you will inevitably find it!

Visit the glacier as part of a tour to Southern Iceland:

Hallgrimskirkja Church

Once you reach the top of Rainbow Street, you’ll see this church.

It’s one of the tallest buildings in the country and has an observation tower you can climb to admire panoramic views of the city.

Aurora Reykjavik

This is a museum dedicated to the Northern Lights.

I highly recommend going before your Northern Lights tour so you are armed with lots of information and knowledge!

The whole visit is about an hour, and has interactive exhibits and presentations.

You learn a lot about the science behind the Northern Lights, as well as cultural significance and mythology.

There’s even a really cool virtual reality experience at the end!

Join this tour to see the Ice Cave:

The Lava Show

Iceland is home to many volcanoes – in fact, there are more active volcanoes in Iceland than anywhere else on the planet!

Most of us will likely never see a volcano erupt, and hopefully none of us will ever be close enough to get a good look at its lava!

This was one of my favorite attractions – it starts off with a video about Iceland and its volcanoes, which was super interesting, and then there’s a live demonstration of molten lava.

The Settlement Exhibition

This museum was built around the excavation site of an old settlement.

The museum showcases the remains and goes into great detail about the history of Iceland from their first settlers until present day.

I personally liked it but I know not everyone is a history fan – if you’re pressed for time, I’d say you can skip this one.

The Icelandic Phallological Museum

Okay this one, you can’t skip!

The title is just a fancy way of saying it’s a penis museum.

Yes, penis.

An Icelandic native began collecting them when he was younger and decided to open a museum to the public.

It’s a really unique and interesting concept, and you learn a lot!

Beaches & Waterfalls

Skogafoss Waterfall
Skogafoss Waterfall

The first time I laid eyes on this waterfall, I was mesmerized.

Not only is it huge, but you can get super up close and personal (you will, of course, get wet) to its powerful cascade!

There are also stairs to the right of the waterfall that take 10 minutes to climb.

Go up the stairs to get sweeping views of the waterfall from above! I definitely think this is not to be missed.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss

Another stunning waterfall.

Though not as majestic as Skogafoss in my opinion, it’s still really beautiful.

What makes it unique is that in the summer you can walk behind the waterfall.
Reynisfjara
Reynisfjara

Also known as Black Sand Beach for obvious reasons. Its black sand is due to its volcanic origins and is pretty cool to see in person.

It has some of the most powerful waves I’ve ever seen and for that reason – you need to take extra precaution when visiting.

Several tourists over the years have lost their lives here due to sneaker waves, which catch people off guard and pull them into the ocean.

When you enter, it will say how far you’re able to go so pay attention to that and never, ever have your back to the water!

Book This Tour!
Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach

Across the street from Jokulsarlon Glacier is Diamond Beach.
It gets its name because icebergs wash up on its black sand shore.
The stark contrast between the black sand and the icebergs makes it look like they are diamonds!

Skogafoss Waterfall

The first time I laid eyes on this waterfall, I was mesmerized.

Not only is it huge, but you can get super up close and personal (you will, of course, get wet) to its powerful cascade!

There are also stairs to the right of the waterfall that take 10 minutes to climb.

Go up the stairs to get sweeping views of the waterfall from above! I definitely think this is not to be missed.

Seljalandsfoss

Another stunning waterfall.

Though not as majestic as Skogafoss in my opinion, it’s still really beautiful.

What makes it unique is that in the summer you can walk behind the waterfall.

Reynisfjara

Also known as Black Sand Beach for obvious reasons. Its black sand is due to its volcanic origins and is pretty cool to see in person.

It has some of the most powerful waves I’ve ever seen and for that reason – you need to take extra precaution when visiting.

Several tourists over the years have lost their lives here due to sneaker waves, which catch people off guard and pull them into the ocean.

When you enter, it will say how far you’re able to go so pay attention to that and never, ever have your back to the water!

Diamond Beach

Across the street from Jokulsarlon Glacier is Diamond Beach.

It gets its name because icebergs wash up on its black sand shore.

The stark contrast between the black sand and the icebergs makes it look like they are diamonds!

Ice Caves & Glaciers

Katla Ice Cave
Katla Ice Cave

Visiting an ice cave is a must-do! Katla is one of the most popular ones to visit.
You can either visit from Vik, or join a tour from Reykjavik. Either way, it will have to be with a guide due to its remote location and for safety issues.
It was really cool to learn how ice caves form and to be able to walk through one.

Book This Tour!
Solheimajokull Glacier
Solheimajokull Glacier

There’s a loop that allows you to see the glacier from up above and down below. Since I went in winter, the water was frozen, so we walked on it to get a closer view!

Book This Tour!
Jokulsarlon Glacier
Jokulsarlon Glacier

In my opinion this one was so much cooler and better than Solheimajokull!

It’s also a lot further though, since it’s in the Southeastern part of the country.

With the sun glistening down, it was beautiful to see all the icebergs floating around.

You can even spot some seals!

Katla Ice Cave

Visiting an ice cave is a must-do! Katla is one of the most popular ones to visit.

You can either visit from Vik, or join a tour from Reykjavik. Either way, it will have to be with a guide due to its remote location and for safety issues.

It was really cool to learn how ice caves form and to be able to walk through one.

Solheimajokull Glacier

There’s a loop that allows you to see the glacier from up above and down below. Since I went in winter, the water was frozen, so we walked on it to get a closer view!

Jokulsarlon Glacier

In my opinion this one was so much cooler and better than Solheimajokull!

It’s also a lot further though, since it’s in the Southeastern part of the country.

With the sun glistening down, it was beautiful to see all the icebergs floating around.

You can even spot some seals!

Fun Tours & Road Trips

Northern Lights Tour

If you come between October – April, then it’s a no brainer you have to see the Northern Lights!

There are a ton of apps out there that can help you find them if you have a car and want to drive around solo looking for them.

Personally, I think it’s worth going on a tour and having an expert drive me to these locations, since they know where to look for them.

I went with Reykjavik Outventure and highly recommend them. They provide hot chocolate and cinnamon buns during the tour, as well as professional pictures.

If you don’t see the Northern Lights on your tour, then you can rebook an unlimited amount of times.

Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

In 1973 a US Navy aircraft crash landed due to severe icing. Fortunately – everybody lived!

The airplane was abandoned at the crash site and has become a popular tourist attraction.

I didn’t get a chance to visit, but it’s on my list for next time!

Whale Watching

Generally, the peak season for whale watching is April – October.

This is a popular activity I did not get the chance to do, but seeing these giant sea creatures should be on everybody’s list!

Horseback Riding

Another activity I didn’t get to do – remember I said I got burnt out!

Icelandic horses are so adorable and a unique breed.

They are a national pride and so much effort is made into preserving the purity of the breed that should an Icelandic horse leave the country for any reasons, it is not allowed back in!

Golden Circle

This is a popular loop that can easily be done as a day trip from Reykjavik and includes 3 main stops.

The first is Thingvellir National Park, which is where the North American and European tectonic plates meet. You walk along the trail throughout the park.

The second stop is the Geysir Geothermal. Everyone goes here to see the famous geyser that goes off every 5-7 minutes. To be honest, this one left me feeling a little underwhelmed!

And the last stop is the Gullfoss Waterfall which is absolutely stunning. It is massive and one of the country’s most iconic waterfalls. The waterfall cascades into two tiers, creating a breathtaking sight!

These are the 3 main attractions but the loop also passes through some other cool attractions such as: Kerid Crater (easy 10-minute loop around a cool crater), Secret Lagoon, and Fridheimar Tomato Greenhouse (I hear the restaurant on-site has really good food fresh food from their tomatoes).

Ring Road

Everything I’ve written above can be easily accessed from Reykjavik. But of course there’s a whole island to explore! Here is the counter clockwise route along the Ring Road:

Golden Circle: Since this is still close to Reykjavik, you can spend the night there.
South Coast: Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Vatnajokull Glacier, Solheimasandur plane crash, and Reynisfjar. Spend the night in Vik.
Southeast: Jokulsarlon Glacier and Diamond Beach. Spend the night in Hofn.
Eastern Coast: Eastern Fjords. Spend the night in Egilsstadir.
North: Dettifoss, Godafoss, and Lake Myvatn. Spend the night in Myvatn.
Continue North: Akureyri and spend the night there.
West: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and then head back to Reykjavik.

FLAVORS OF ICELAND

My Recommended Food in Iceland

I was impressed with the food scene in Iceland. Everything was really good - and good thing because it was all so expensive! Here’s what I recommend for Iceland:

Image Source: Vanessa O.

Le Kock

Come here for their hearty tomato soup and massive grilled cheese.

Image Source: Vanessa O.

The Laundromat Cafe

I love a place that sells breakfast until the afternoon because sometimes, I’m craving breakfast food at that time! I got the basic brunch, which came with a fried egg, bacon, and bread. I always judge a place by how crispy their bacon is, and this spot did not disappoint! Get their avocado and banana smoothie as well.

Image Source: Vanessa O.

Flatey

When I came here, their pizza of the month was with mozzarella, pepperoni, ricotta, garlic, parmigiano, and hot honey – MY GOODNESS! This is definitely up there as one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had.

Image Source: Vanessa O.

Omnom Chocolate

Omnom is a chocolate maker known for its bars, but the real attraction in coming here is getting one of their ice creams. They have signature creations where their ice cream presentation resembles certain animals!

Image Source: Vanessa O.

Braud & Co

Cute bakery that is famous for their cinnamon buns and for good reason – they are delicious!

Image Source: Vanessa O.

Public House Gastropub

Get the juicy and crispy Japanese Fried Chicken.

Image Source: Vanessa O.

La Poblana

Tacos in Iceland? Those two don’t seem to go together but boy am I glad that it exists. This is an authentic Mexican restaurant and it shows in their food. Everything is good, but my favorite are the chorizo tacos!

Image Source: Vanessa O.

Arabian Taste

I would never think to have Middle Eastern food in Iceland, but this place comes up as number one on TripAdvisor and has a 4.9 rating on Google! I went to check it out and was not disappointed. I got a chicken doner – it was so flavorful and juicy and saucy. I loved it!

Image Source: Vanessa O.

Deig

This place only serves bagel and donuts and boy are they good! I got a chocolate sea salt donut, which was exquisite. And then I got the Churchill bagel sandwich that had egg, cheese, and beer ham. No clue what beer ham is but this sandwich was the bomb!!