7 Best Places To Visit In Iceland

best places to visit in iceland
Joyce
Joyce 
Updated
| 4 min read

Contrary to its name, Iceland is full of greenery rather than ice. This Nordic island nation is known for its amazing landscapes and majestic views. When you arrive, you’ll be sure to feast your eyes on majestic geysers, hot springs, volcanoes, and lava fields. Snæfellsjökull and Vatnajökull national parks are surrounded by massive glaciers. Most of the people live in Reykjavik. You’ll be happy to know that there are a number of tourist spots around this city. If you’re looking to tour an intriguing and historical destination for the next couple of months, this island country should grace the top of your list. Read on to see some of the best places to visit in Iceland.

1. Hafnarfjordur


Hafnarfjordur is labeled as the third-largest town in Iceland. Anyone who wishes to get in on those very Instagrammable shots must come and visit. The best part is that this location is only one bus ride away from Reykjavík! Should you travel to Hafnarfjordur, be sure to drop by some of the bakeries found downtown and try their mouth-watering pastries. Moreover, don’t forget to go hiking so as to burn those delicious sweets that you would have most likely consumed. Don’t worry! If you’re not into hiking, you can simply take a stroll at Hellisgerði Park or play golf, whichever suits your interests best.

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2. Reykjavík


You may already know Reykjavík as the capital city of Iceland. It is a cool area where most people go to see and try some of the best dishes served in the most cutting-edge Nordic restaurants. Here, you’ll find Hallgrímskirkja, which is both Iceland’s national sanctuary and a parish church. You can also visit the National Museum of Iceland to learn the arts and crafts that were once practiced by some of the earliest settlers in the country. For a more modern experience, you can indulge in great music at Harpa Concert Hall. Whatever you decide to do in Reykjavík, never forget to take a moment and appreciate their architecture and cultural roots.

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Reykjavík Reykjavík Reykjavík

Photos of Reykjavík shared by content creator from the United States, Lilly.

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3. Akranes


Each town in Iceland has its very own museum. When you visit Akranes, be sure to take the time to explore Akranes Folk Museum. Here, you get to learn all about the craftsmanship in this fishing village. Moreover, the overall aesthetics of this area is perfect to get you in the mood to drink coffee. If this doesn’t intrigue you, maybe you’ll be more interested in taking a trip to Akranes Lighthouse. This magnificent structure was built in 1944. To this day, it is still being utilized for art exhibitions and concerts.

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4. Selfoss

Selfoss-Waterfall-Iceland
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user JuTa used under CC BY-SA 3.0

If you’re visiting Selfoss, you have to stop by at Tryggvaskáli, which is the very first house ever to be built in this town. This is where any antique enthusiast would definitely want to go. Moreover, they also set up some tables in front of the house so that you can eat a meal and have amazing riverfront views. If this does not make you feel romantic and giddy inside, then who knows what will. If you want your ol’ cup of Joe, Kaffi Krus is a great choice. This is one of the more popular cafés and restaurants in the area. If you want a taste of Icelandic and international dishes, this is the place to be.

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5. Reykjanesbær

Reykjanesbær
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Helgi Halldórsson used under CC BY-SA 2.0

On another note, if you want to truly experience the amazing Icelandic nature, then it is highly suggested that you take a trip to Keflavík. This place is brimming with majestic and diverse views. You can check out Gunnuhver Hot Springs and take a dip to unwind by the end of the day. Moreover, you may want to take one of the best scenic Instagram photos at Reykjanes Lighthouse. Just imagine: soft clouds above you, bubbling hot springs, a picturesque lighthouse, and a town with very deep cultural roots. If you’re planning to visit Iceland, it would be crazy not to drop by Keflavík.

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6. Kópavogur


If you’re trying to figure out how to spend the day in Kópavogur, then you came to the right place. Indeed a trip to one of the most scenic countries can be overwhelming. Thus, the following is advised if you’re traveling to Kópavogur. First and foremost, you should definitely visit Gerðarsafn Museum. This modern art museum was actually built in honor of a particular female artist, Gerður Helgadóttir. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of Iceland’s zoological and ecological features. After this, head on to Smáralind, the country’s largest mall. Also, after having to shop until you drop, enjoy an afternoon swim at Kópavogur’s many public pools.

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7. Egilsstaðir


Egilsstaðir is located in the eastern part of Iceland. If you have plans to visit, here are things you cannot absolutely miss. First, the beautiful waterfalls at Hengifoss is a must! This amazing tourist spot is considered as the third-highest waterfall in all of Iceland, with a total towering height of 128 meters (420 feet), draped over a great canyon. After Hengifoss, you can simply drive a few minutes to Kárahnjúkar Dam. This place features a geothermal pool located right in the middle of the highlands. Take note, there are two pools. Each of these pools will allow you to see over the Icelandic highlands, mountains, and glaciers. These are things you definitely shouldn’t miss!

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Visit the "Land of Fire and Ice"

Kárahnjúkar Hydroelectric Project
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user OddurBen used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Iceland has been dubbed by many as the “Land of Fire and Ice.” If this title doesn’t intrigue you, then we don’t know what will. The name itself provides mystery and hints of rich cultural background, scenic views, and amazing activities that will truly make you appreciate what nature has to offer. With this guide to some of the best places to visit in Iceland, you’ll be sure to have one of the most exciting trips.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Joyce Gonzales has always had the case of wanderlust. She was a former financial analyst who took a leap of faith and started writing about her travels. She is intrigued by the existence of...Read more

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