- Reykjavik – The capital and largest city of Iceland, Reykjavik is known for its colorful buildings, lively nightlife, and historical landmarks such as the Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral and the Reykjavik City Museum. Visitors can also take a walk along the Tjörnin Pond, visit the Reykjavik Art Museum, or explore the trendy 101 neighborhood. Getting there: Reykjavik can be reached by plane, bus or car. Cost: Many of the historical sites and museums have an admission fee, but some are free to visit.
- The Golden Circle – This popular tourist route includes the Gullfoss waterfall, the geysers of Geysir, and the Thingvellir National Park. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a guided tour of the area. Getting there: The Golden Circle can be reached by car or by taking a tour from Reykjavik. Cost: Entrance to Thingvellir National Park is free, but some of the other sites may have an admission fee.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – This stunning glacial lagoon is home to floating icebergs and is a popular spot for boat tours. Visitors can also take a walk along the shoreline and visit the nearby Diamond Beach. Getting there: Jökulsárlón can be reached by car or by taking a tour from Reykjavik. Cost: Entrance to the lagoon is free, but boat tours may have an admission fee.
- Vatnajökull National Park – This national park is home to the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe, as well as the Skaftafell Nature Reserve and the Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a guided tour of the area. Getting there: Vatnajökull National Park can be reached by car or by taking a tour from Reykjavik. Cost: Entrance to the park is free, but guided tours may have an admission fee.
- Blue Lagoon – This geothermal spa is known for its milky blue waters and natural healing properties. Visitors can relax in the warm waters, visit the on-site spa, or take a mud bath. Getting there: The Blue Lagoon can be reached by car or by taking a tour from Reykjavik. Cost: Admission to the Blue Lagoon starts around $50.
- Seljalandsfoss – This waterfall is known for its hiking trails that lead behind the waterfall and its beautiful surroundings. Visitors can take a hike, bike or take a guided tour to see the waterfall up close. Getting there: Seljalandsfoss can be reached by car or by taking a tour from Reykjavik. Cost: Entrance to the waterfall is free.
- Skaftafell Nature Reserve – This nature reserve is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and mountains. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a guided tour of the area. Getting there: Skaftafell Nature Reserve can be reached by car or by taking a tour from Reykjavik. Cost: Entrance to the park is free, but guided tours may have an admission fee.
- Myvatn – This volcanic lake is known for its geothermal activity, including the Myvatn Nature Baths and the Myvatn Geothermal Area. Visitors can take a hike, bike or take a guided tour to see the volcanic area up close. Getting there: Myvatn can be reached by car or by taking a tour from Reykjavik. Cost: Entrance to the Myvatn Nature Baths is around $20, and guided tours may have an additional fee.
- Þingvellir National Park – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its historical significance as the site of Iceland’s first parliament and its unique geology, including the Almannagjá gorge and the Silfra fissure. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a guided tour of the area. Getting there: Þingvellir National Park can be reached by car or by taking a tour from Reykjavik. Cost: Entrance to the park is free, but guided tours may have an admission fee.
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – This black sand beach is known for its dramatic coastal views, including the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the nearby Dyrhólaey Nature Reserve. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a guided tour of the area. Getting there: Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach can be reached by car or by taking a tour from Reykjavik. Cost: Entrance to the beach is free.
Precautions: Visitors should be aware of Iceland’s weather conditions, which can change quickly, and always be prepared for cold weather, even in the summer. Visitors should also be aware of the country’s laws and regulations, such as the prohibition of off-road driving and respecting the natural environment. It’s also good to carry a map, water, and wear appropriate clothing and footwear.