Iceland is hands down one of the most breathtaking places on Earth—and I’m speaking from experience. I’ve been lucky enough to visit this incredible country 10 times, and every trip leaves me in awe. From powerful waterfalls and black-sand beaches to glaciers that sparkle like diamonds, Iceland’s landscapes are straight-up magical.
And if you’re on the hunt for those perfect Instagram shots, you’re in for a treat. I’ve rounded up 12 of my absolute favorite spots that are so stunning, you’ll have to see them to believe it. Let’s dive into the Land of Fire and Ice—you’ll be booking your next trip before you even finish this list!
Iceland’s Most Instagrammable Places at a Glance 📸❄️
Ready to discover the best of Iceland? Here are my favorite locations at a high level…
- Strokkur Geyser: 🌋 Watch this geyser erupt every few minutes for epic action shots on the Golden Circle.
- Northern Lights: 🌌 Capture the magic of the Aurora Borealis during Iceland’s darker months.
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: 🌊 Walk behind this majestic waterfall for a truly immersive photo op.
- Seyðisfjörður: 🏡 Explore this quaint, colorful village surrounded by fjords in eastern Iceland.
- Húsavík: 🐋 Known as Europe’s whale-watching capital, perfect for coastal and wildlife shots.
- Hraunfossar Waterfall: 🍂 A dream for photographers, especially during fall, with water streaming through lava fields.
- Þingvellir National Park: 🗺️ Stand between tectonic plates in this historical and geological wonder.
- Svartifoss Waterfall: 🖤 Marvel at the black basalt columns that inspired Iceland’s architecture.
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon: ⛰️ Hike to breathtaking views of this ancient Ice Age canyon.
- Blue Lagoon: 💦 Relax in this world-famous geothermal spa for serene and steamy shots.
- Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon & Diamond Beach: ❄️ A surreal landscape of floating icebergs and black sand beaches.
- Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss: 🏔️ Iconic mountain and waterfall combo, perfect for capturing Iceland’s essence.
Get ready to explore and snap Iceland’s otherworldly beauty! 🌍📷
12. Strokkur Geyser
Erupting every 6-10 minutes, Strokkur is Iceland’s most rambunctious geyser. It’s also one of the best Instagram spots in Iceland.
This hot spring is conveniently located along the Golden Circle, which contains many of Iceland’s greatest natural treasures. Steeped in pristine beauty, it’s definitely one of the best photo and video spots in Iceland.
Here’s my short 10-second clip of Strokkur:
11. The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
Ok, so this isn’t a place per se. However, the northern lights is one of the island’s biggest draws, and as such, deserves a spot on this list of the most Instagrammable places in Iceland.
I’ve been lucky to witness the northern lights twice during two separate visits. It’s such a magical sight and will provide you with some solid IG content! I highly recommend doing an Aurora tour to have the best chance of seeing them!
10. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Originating from a nearby volcano glacier, Seljalandsfoss is a majestic waterfall cascading over 200 feet (60 meters). It’s one of many breathtaking waterfalls on the island, but it’s among the top Iceland Instagram spots.
Be sure to wear a poncho and venture behind the falls for the best views. Situated along the Ring Road in southern Iceland, Seljalandsfoss is low-hanging fruit for the aspiring Instagram pro. It’s truly a must-see on an Iceland road trip.
9. Seyðisfjörður
Seyðisfjörður is definitely the quirkiest and most charming village in Iceland. Nestled amid colorful wooden houses and cloud-covered fjords, Seyðisfjörður is a must-see in eastern Iceland.
8. Húsavík
This fishing village in northeastern Iceland is the oldest Norse settlement in the country. Húsavík is the whale watching capital of Europe, where you’re essentially guaranteed to see one of its 12 whale species. Like the scenic harborfront, Húsavík’s whales are very photogenic, too. This town is one of the most livable places in Iceland, hands down.
7. Hraunfossar Waterfall
As one Iceland’s best hidden gems, Hraunfossar is every photographer’s dream, especially during the fall foliage season. Interestingly, its water doesn’t originate from the mountains, but from lava beds deep within the Earth. Moreover, Hraunfossar is one of the only waterfalls in West and South Iceland that permits drones. On the way, I recommend stopping at a horse farm that the region is known for. Gotta do it for the ‘gram!
6. Þingvellir National Park
Wedged between two tectonic plates, Þingvellir National Park is marveled for its unique geological landscape and authentic natural beauty. It was here, in Þingvellir, where the Icelandic people established the world’s oldest, continuously-running parliament in 930 AD. Personally, I find this to be one of the best areas in Europe for seeing the Aurora Borealis.
5. Svartifoss Waterfall
Svartifoss, or “Black Falls”, was named for its dark basalt columns. Located in southeastern Iceland, Svartifoss is a picture-perfect waterfall that inspires artists and photographers alike. It’s so enchanting that the Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavik was built in its image.
Do you see the resemblance?
4. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur (say this five times fast) is a colossal canyon in southern Iceland. This dramatic geological formation was shaped during the Ice Age two million years ago.
Be extra careful with your drone here, as it’s easy to lose reception in the depths of the canyon. The hike to the top is well worth it to capture one of the most Instagrammable places in Iceland.
3. Blue Lagoon
Fly to Iceland and this is likely going to be your first stop. The Blue Lagoon offers a spa experience like no other. This majestic geothermal pool is rightfully one of Nat Geo’s 25 Wonders of the World.
Located near Keflavík Airport, the Blue Lagoon should be your final stop in Iceland (the grand finale).
2. Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon and Diamond Beach
This glacial lagoon and adjacent beach are where Iceland draws its name as the Land of Fire and Ice.
It’s surreal to watch Jökulsárlón’s immaculate icebergs float from the lagoon into the sea. Furthermore, there is a striking contrast between the black sand beach and crystal blue icebergs. It’s truly the perfect juxtaposition for an Instagram photo, and one of the best photo spots in Iceland!
1. Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss
There is something truly magical about this mountain-waterfall composition on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. If you wanted to capture Iceland in one photo, it would definitely be Kirkjufell.
This idyllic scene embodies the natural beauty and allure of Iceland. When you add the Aurora Borealis into the mix, there is no place on Earth quite like it. Kirkjufell is one of my favorite places to stay in Iceland for a unique experience in nature!
Iceland is one of the most Instagrammable places on Earth
Where are your favorite spots in Iceland? Which places do you consider the most Instagrammable places in Iceland? For more travel inspiration, check out my ideal Iceland itinerary!
Are you looking to kick off 2025 by discovering some of the most beautiful (Instagrammable) cities in Europe? If so, check out my recent blog posts about Verona and Barcelona:
