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Holidays to Iceland mix natural sights with warm geothermal pools and an easy-to-explore capital.
Fire and ice landscapes
Iceland is often called ‘the land of fire and ice’ – with active volcanoes and steaming thermal lagoons sitting alongside frozen waterfalls, glaciers and winter snow. The seasons feel just as distinctive. Winter brings short daylight hours, with the sun only appearing briefly each day, while summer delivers long stretches of light that can last late into the night. Whenever you visit, the scenery is striking and the landscapes feel unlike anywhere else.
Exploring Reykjavik
Despite being the world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavik feels warm and welcoming. The city has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, with colourful streets, bold murals and a good mix of cafés, bars and restaurants. One of the best viewpoints is from the top of Hallgrimskirkja Church, where you can look out across the city, harbour and surrounding coastline. Beyond the sights, locals are proud of their culture and happy to share it, making Reykjavik easy to explore whether you’re visiting for a short break or a longer stay.
Wildlife experiences
Iceland offers lots of chances to spot wildlife in its natural setting. Whale-watching trips run along the coast, where you might see humpback whales, orcas and dolphins, depending on the season and conditions. On land, Budir Beach is a popular place to look for seals at no cost, and in the countryside you’re likely to come across Icelandic horses – a native breed known for their thick winter coats and calm nature. They’re well adapted to the climate and are often seen outdoors, even in snowy conditions.
Best time to visit Iceland
The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to see and do, as the country changes dramatically throughout the year. Winter is ideal for spotting the Northern Lights and seeing waterfalls and frozen landscapes. The snow adds to the atmosphere here, though temperatures often fall below zero and daylight can be limited to just a few hours in December and January. In contrast, summer brings near-continuous daylight, with the sun barely setting at all. Temperatures usually reach the mid-teens, making it a good time for hiking, sightseeing and wildlife trips. For budget travellers, spring and autumn are typically quieter and can offer better value, with wildflowers in spring or warm autumn colours across the landscape.
Best places to stay in Iceland
Reykjavik
Getting around Reykjavik is easy, as most of the city can be explored on foot. You can spend the day visiting museums that cover Iceland’s Viking history, then round things off in the evening at a laidback bar with a drink and some live music.
Iceland highlights
THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Thanks to Iceland’s northern location, you’ve got a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights here. Also known as the Aurora Borealis, this natural light display appears only when conditions are just right, making them a popular highlight for winter holidays.
LUXURY LAGOONS
Iceland is known for its naturally warm geothermal pools. The Blue Lagoon is the best-known spot, while Sky Lagoon sits closer to Reykjavik and looks out to sea.
NATURAL BEAUTY
Thingvellir National Park is home to geysers, steaming craters and bubbling thermal pools, as well as the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall. It’s also where you can see the rift between the European and North American tectonic plates.
CITY CULTURE
Reykjavik is the northernmost capital city in the world, packed with bakeries, cosy pubs and cocktail bars, alongside a strong creative and music scene. Spend time exploring the street art, browsing record shops and catching live music at local venues.
Your guide to Iceland
Popular sights
Iceland has plenty of places to add to your sightseeing list, but these are some of the most popular highlights.
Gullfoss Waterfall – Part of the famous Golden Circle, this two-tiered waterfall drops 32 metres into a deep crevice of the Hvítá river. It’s especially striking in winter when sections of the falls freeze over.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach – Watch icebergs drift from the glacier lagoon and wash up on a stretch of jet-black sand, creating one of Iceland’s most memorable coastal scenes.
Skógafoss – One of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. You can climb the steps to the top for wide-open views or stand at the base – just be prepared to get a little wet from the spray.
Hallgrímskirkja and the Sun Voyager – Reykjavík’s futuristic church and iconic boat sculpture are two of the capital’s most recognisable landmarks and give the city its distinctive skyline.
Thingvellir National Park – Walk between the European and North American tectonic plates in this dramatic, UNESCO-listed rift valley.
Art and culture
Iceland has a combination of ancient folklore and contemporary art.
Live music and concerts – Iceland has produced lots of famous artists, including Björk and Sigur Rós. You can get a feel for the local music scene by catching a gig in one of Reykjavik’s bars, or head to Harpa Concert Hall for larger performances.
Icelandic sagas and folklore tours – From elves to volcano spirits, Iceland’s myths and legends play a big part in its culture. Join a guided tour to hear the stories that have been passed down through generations.
Turf-roofed homes and rural museums – Learn more about Iceland’s history at places like Glaumbær Farm or Skógar Museum – both open-air museums that feature traditional turf-roofed buildings.
Art and photography galleries – Explore Iceland’s creative side at modern galleries such as BERG Contemporary and the Reykjavik Art Museum.
Shopping
Buy a souvenir with a Nordic twist.
Laugavegur Street – Reykjavík’s main shopping street is lined with Scandinavian brands, independent bookshops and homeware stores, making it an easy place to browse while exploring the city.
Handmade wool and knitwear – Shops across Iceland sell traditional lopapeysa jumpers made from local wool – they’re warm, practical and a classic Icelandic keepsake.
Jewellery and lava glass – Look out for unique pieces crafted from volcanic rock, ash and glacier stone, inspired by Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
Hidden gems
Avoid the crowds and explore these lesser-known spots.
Thríhnúkagígur Volcano – The only dormant volcano in the world that you can actually go inside, offering a rare look beneath Iceland’s volcanic surface.
Westfjords region – One of Iceland’s most remote areas, known for dramatic fjords, puffin colonies and open landscapes with few visitors.
Keríð Crater Lake – A striking bright-blue lake set within a red volcanic caldera, and easy to add to a Golden Circle route.
Múlagljúfur Canyon – A scenic gorge near Iceland’s southeast coast, filled with waterfalls, steep cliffs and moss-covered rock.
Daytrips
Get out of the city with one of these daytrips that are an easy journey from Reykjavik.
The Golden Circle – A famous 300-kilometre tourist route that covers three of Iceland’s major natural wonders – Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall – all in one day.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Visit here for black beaches, rocky cliffs, lava tubes and a glacier-capped volcano.
Blue Lagoon – Enjoy the mineral-rich, geothermal waters, just 45 minutes from Reykjavík.
South Coast Waterfalls and Reynisfjara Beach – Visit Seljalandsfoss, walk behind a waterfall and explore a beach made of volcanic ash.
Reykjanes Peninsula – See steaming mud pools, walk between tectonic plates and explore volcanic eruption sites.
Active experiences
Iceland’s ideal for outdoor adventures.
Glacier hikes and ice caves – Walk on centuries-old ice and explore frozen caves at Vatnaökull.
Snowmobiling across a glacier – Ride across a frozen landscape like Langjökull or Mýrdalsjökull.
Horse riding – Icelandic horses are smaller and bulkier than the ones you typically see, and they’re famous for their unique ‘tölt’ gait.
Snorkelling in Silfra – Brave the cold and snorkel in crystal-clear glacial waters between tectonic plates.
ATV and Super Jeep tours – Drive over black-sand plains or explore lava fields in off-road vehicles.
Paddle-boarding on glacial lagoons – Gear up in a wetsuit and glide between floating icebergs.
Couples’ holidays
With dramatic scenery and a relaxed feel, Iceland is a great choice if you are planning a romantic break.
The Northern Lights – Cuddle up under the stars and keep your eyes peeled for a show from the Aurora Borealis.
Hot springs – From the Blue Lagoon to secret natural pools, you can enjoy the hot springs surrounded by natural beauty.
Cosy hotels – Pick an intimate stay with a log fire, private hot tub and landscape views.
Scenic drives – Hire a car and explore the island together – you’ll be able to discover secluded spots, like secret beaches and viewpoints.
Dinner with a view – Reykjavik’s food scene serves up lots of places for a romantic dinner – from candlelit tables to glacier-side restaurants.
Family holidays
Whale-watching, volcanoes and waterfalls are just a few things that will keep the little ones busy.
Geothermal pools – Most towns have family-friendly public pools with slides, play areas and warm temperatures.
Whale-watching tours – Hop on a boat from Reykjavik or Akureyri to spot local humpbacks and orcas.
Interactive museums – The Lava Centre and Perlan’s ice cave exhibition bring Iceland’s wild side to life.
Pony rides and farm visits – Meet Icelandic horses, goats and more on charming countryside farms.
Group holidays
Adventurous days and lively nights make Iceland perfect for group holidays.
Group activities – There’s everything from snowmobiling to glacier trekking and lava caving.
Reykjavik’s nightlife – The nightlife scene is varied in the capital with cocktail bars, live music and high-energy clubs.
Road trips – Drive around the island and take in the views.
Local dishes
Locals are proud of their traditional dishes using fresh, local flavours.
Lamb stew (Kjötsúpa) – A warming broth packed with tender lamb and root vegetables – perfect for refuelling after a hike.
Plokkfiskur – Creamy mashed fish stew with potatoes, usually served with rye bread and butter.
Skyr – Iceland’s version of natural yoghurt – thick, tangy and great with berries or honey.
Fresh seafood – Cod, langoustine and Arctic char are staples on restaurant menus.
Hot dogs – Icelanders love a hot dog – especially from the famous Bæjarins Beztu stand in Reykjavík.
Rúgbrað – Dense, slightly sweet rye bread, traditionally baked by being buried in geothermal soil.
Something to drink
Try one of these local favourites.
Brennivín – Nicknamed ‘Black Death’, this caraway-flavoured schnapps is an acquired taste, but worth a try.
Craft beer – Iceland’s microbrewery scene is thriving – try Einstök, Kaldi or Viking brews.
Glacier water – The tap water here is some of the cleanest in the world.
Nightlife
Reykjavik might be small, but it has plenty to keep you busy in the evening.
Live music bars – Try Gaukurinn or Húrra for a mix of Icelandic bands and DJs.
Lively pubs and late-night cafés – Many spots stay open until the early hours, especially at weekends and in the summer when the sun doesn’t set.
Cocktail lounges – Sip expertly mixed drinks at spots like Jungle Cocktail Bar or Apótek.
Themed bars – There are Viking halls and Lebowski Bar, dedicated to the cult classic The Big Lebowski.
Geothermal spa evenings – The hot springs and lagoons put on night-time sessions with music, mood lighting and drinks.
Car hire
A car is a great way to explore Iceland. Stick to the main Ring Road to reach all the must-see spots or head off the beaten track on the F-roads that’ll lead you into the highlands. You’ll need a 4x4 to drive on these rocky roads.
Bus
If you don’t fancy driving yourself, Iceland has a network of buses linking Reykjavik to points of interest all over the island. Services become less regular the more remote you go, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Walking
For sightseeing in the capital, walking is the cheapest way to get around. City Walk Reykjavik does guided walking tours of the city with a pay-what-you-like policy.
Why we love Iceland
Here are some top tips from our team
Expert recommendation
“If you’re into your music, don’t miss the Icelandic Punk Museum. It’s in an old underground public toilet right in Reykjavik’s centre, and every wall is plastered in posters, photos and memorabilia from bands all over the world. It gives you a proper taste of Reykjavik’s quirky side.” – Daisy Colley
Non-touristy activities
If the Lagoons are too expensive for your budget but you don’t want to miss out on all the geothermal fun, Vesturbæjarlaug is your answer – these open-air pools are heated up by the island’s volcanoes, too, but it’s where the Reykjavik locals go for a dip instead – and for a fraction of the price. It’s £6 (or 825 Icelandic Krona) per session, and that gives you access to the outdoor pool, kids’ pool, waterslide, hot tubs, steam room and sauna.
Free things to do
Learning about Iceland’s history won’t cost you anything. Reykjavik City Museum is made up of five separate exhibits, and you can visit all of them for free. Or, step back in time at the Árbær Open Air Museum, which is a small town showing what Reykjavik looked like in the old days.
Iceland FAQs
Iceland’s known for being an expensive destination, but it depends on what you have planned for your trip. Eating in restaurants, booking extra tours and drinking alcohol can be pricey – especially in Reykjavik. But the nature itself is free, so swap the guided tour for public transport or hiring your own car, and explore what you can yourself. Free or low-cost sights include some waterfalls, hikes and public pools instead of the spa lagoons.
Iceland is great for solo travellers – it’s one of the safest countries in the world and the locals are friendly and welcoming. Reykjavik has a cosy, laidback feel, and there are loads of guided tours that make it easy to meet new people and explore without needing to hire a car.
English is widely spoken in Iceland. Locals start learning English from a young age, so most people speak it fluently, especially in Reykjavik and tourist areas. Menus, signs and tour guides all usually cater to English speakers.
The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you’re visiting for. Visit between June and August for long daylight hours, whale-watching and green landscapes. For the Northern Lights and snowy adventures, aim for late September to March, and spring and autumn are quieter and cheaper, with a good mix of both.
Yes, UK, EU, US and many international licences are accepted – plus, it’s a great way to see the country. Just keep in mind that road conditions can be tricky in winter, especially in remote areas, so it’s recommended to always check local weather forecasts, drive carefully and consider renting a 4x4 if you’re planning to go off the main routes.
When you click through to book your holiday, we’ll supply the exact travel requirements for your chosen destination through our partner, Passolution. In the meantime, check the FCDO for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements and health and safety information.