12 Most Beautiful Places in Iceland to Visit (Nature Gone Wild)

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I thought I’d seen some crazy landscapes before Iceland, but this place is on another level. I’m talking black sand beaches scattered with glowing blue icebergs, waterfalls you can walk behind, and geothermal pools in the middle of nowhere that you’ll have all to yourself.

From steaming volcanoes to massive glacier caves, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Iceland that make you question reality. This island is insane, and I mean that in the best way possible!

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Iceland

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Icelandic adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last November, I flew to Reykjavik for just $320 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by buying meals or ingredients from budget supermarkets like Bónus and Krónan. Stock up in Reykjavik as prices are higher in rural areas. Local hot dog stands offer a budget-friendly meal at around 500 ISK ($3.50), and many gas stations offer decent food at reasonable prices. At supermarkets, you’ll find ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, and Skyr for much less than restaurants.
• Transport: I recommend checking out the Reykjavik City Card if you’re spending time in the capital – it includes buses and museum entry. For exploring beyond, booking a rental car in advance and splitting costs with travel companions often works out cheaper than tours.

Iceland is known for being one of the world’s most expensive countries. With these money-saving strategies, you can explore this stunning island without completely emptying your wallet. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Iceland:

1. Reykjavik

• 📍 Location: Southwest Iceland
• 🏆 Best For: Culture buffs 🎭, urban explorers 🚶, design lovers 🎨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing Hallgrímskirkja, soaking in Sky Lagoon, browsing street art downtown
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for long days and festivals 🎉
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kvosin Downtown Hotel – Stylish suites next to Reykjavik’s Parliament Square

Reykjavik might be small for a capital, but it’s packed with personality. The city’s colorful rooftops and quirky art murals give it a playful vibe that’s hard to forget. You can walk just about everywhere, from the famous Hallgrímskirkja church to the buzzing harbor area where whale-watching tours launch.

Local cafés serve up rich coffee and cinnamon buns, while modern Nordic restaurants keep the food scene fresh. Don’t skip Sky Lagoon, a newer geothermal spa just outside the city with oceanfront views and a seven-step ritual that feels like a reset button.

Reykjavik is also a great base for day trips. Within hours, you can reach waterfalls, glaciers, or black sand beaches. Whether you’re into art, nightlife, or just vibing with locals in record shops and cozy pubs, Reykjavik delivers an unforgettable intro to Iceland.

2. Golden Circle

• 📍 Location: Southwest Iceland
• 🏆 Best For: First-timers 📍, geology lovers 🌋, road trippers 🚗
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching Strokkur erupt, walking between tectonic plates at Thingvellir, seeing Gullfoss roar
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for clear roads and greenery 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Geysir – Modern hotel steps away from the geothermal field

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most iconic road trip loop for a reason. It’s a compact route that lets you see waterfalls, geysers, and continental rifts all within a single day. Thingvellir National Park is a standout, where you can literally walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Just down the road is the Geysir geothermal area. While the original Geysir is mostly dormant, Strokkur still erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water into the sky. It’s one of those natural moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

End the loop with Gullfoss, a powerful two-tiered waterfall that plunges into a deep canyon. The Golden Circle is easy to navigate, beginner-friendly, and full of big sights without needing to go far off the grid. It’s the perfect intro to Iceland’s dramatic nature.

• Read next: Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites

3. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

• 📍 Location: Southeast Iceland
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife watchers 🦭, photographers 📸, nature lovers ❄️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Boat ride among icebergs, spotting seals, exploring nearby Diamond Beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for accessible roads and boat tours 🚤
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon – Stylish hotel near the lagoon with glacier views

Jökulsárlón is one of those places that doesn’t feel real. Massive blue icebergs float across the glacial lagoon, slowly drifting out toward the Atlantic. The ice chunks constantly shift, giving you a completely different scene every time you visit.

It’s common to see seals lounging on icebergs or swimming through the chilly waters. If you want a closer look, book an amphibian or Zodiac boat tour that weaves through the ice and gets you right next to the action. Nearby, Diamond Beach is where the ice washes ashore and glitters like crystals on black sand.

The area is also a magnet for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light plays off the ice. Whether you’re on a day trip or a longer South Coast journey, Jökulsárlón feels like stepping into another world.

4. Vatnajökull National Park

• 📍 Location: Southeast and Central Iceland
• 🏆 Best For: Glacier adventurers 🧊, waterfall chasers 💦, hikers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Dettifoss, hiking to Svartifoss, exploring ice caves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for safe hiking and clear trails 🏞️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fosshotel Nupar – Scenic stay with views of lava fields and glacier peaks

Vatnajökull National Park covers a huge part of Iceland and offers some of the wildest landscapes in the country. Towering glaciers, volcanoes, and dramatic canyons are all packed into one vast, jaw-dropping area. The park is home to Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, which feeds several powerful rivers and waterfalls.

Dettifoss is one of the highlights. It’s considered the most powerful waterfall in Europe, and the sound alone is unforgettable. Not far from there is Svartifoss, known for its backdrop of dark basalt columns that almost look man-made.

Many visitors also explore the glacier’s natural ice caves, which glow in shades of blue and white depending on the season. The park is perfect for long treks or shorter scenic hikes. It’s one of those places that gives you a deeper appreciation for how raw and intense Iceland’s nature really is.

5. Akureyri

• 📍 Location: North Iceland
• 🏆 Best For: Urban nature blends 🏙️🌲, culture lovers 🎨, winter sports fans 🎿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Botanical Garden, skiing at Hlíðarfjall, touring Akureyri Art Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for snow and Northern Lights ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Kea by Keahotels – Central hotel near restaurants and shops

Akureyri is often called the capital of North Iceland, but it feels more like a cozy town with big city perks. It sits at the end of Iceland’s longest fjord and is surrounded by snow-dusted mountains that set the perfect backdrop year-round. Everything in the town is walkable, from quirky cafés to street art and scenic viewpoints.

The Botanical Garden is a surprise highlight, filled with native plants that thrive despite the Arctic location. In winter, the town becomes a base for skiing and snowboarding at nearby Hlíðarfjall, one of the country’s best slopes for beginners and seasoned riders alike.

Akureyri is also a launch point for road trips to Goðafoss, Mývatn, and even whale-watching tours in Húsavík. It’s the kind of place that combines nature, creativity, and convenience in a low-key and very lovable way.

6. Blue Lagoon

• 📍 Location: Reykjanes Peninsula, Southwest Iceland
• 🏆 Best For: Spa lovers 💆, first-timers 📸, wellness travelers 🧖‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Soaking in mineral-rich waters, trying a silica mud mask, relaxing in the steam cave
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for steamy contrast and fewer crowds 🛁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Northern Light Inn – Cozy stay with spa access near the lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa, and once you’re in it, it’s easy to see why. Set in a lava field, the milky-blue waters glow against dark volcanic rock, creating a surreal setting that feels straight out of a dream. The water stays warm year-round, making it the perfect stop no matter the season.

Silica, algae, and minerals in the lagoon are said to help with skin conditions, but even if you’re not there for the health benefits, the relaxation factor is unbeatable. The in-water bar and mask stations add to the spa-day vibe.

Located close to Keflavík Airport, many travelers visit at the start or end of their trip. With luxurious options like the Retreat Spa or just a casual float under the sky, the Blue Lagoon is a relaxing, otherworldly way to unwind in Iceland.

7. Skaftafell Nature Reserve

• 📍 Location: Southeast Iceland, within Vatnajökull National Park
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature lovers 🌿, glacier explorers 🧊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to Svartifoss, trekking to Kristínartindar Peaks, viewing glacier tongues
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for clear trails and longer daylight ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Skaftafell – Rustic base with glacier views near trailheads

Skaftafell is where you go when you want to hike straight into Iceland’s raw beauty. Tucked inside Vatnajökull National Park, this nature reserve blends black sand plains, ice-covered mountains, and birch woodlands into one massive outdoor playground. It’s especially popular for its accessible yet rewarding hiking trails.

One of the highlights is Svartifoss, a narrow waterfall framed by tall black basalt columns. The short hike to reach it is scenic and manageable, even for beginners. For something more intense, trails like Kristínartindar offer panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glacier tongues.

This area is also a jumping-off point for glacier walks, with local guides offering gear and tours. Skaftafell’s mix of peaceful trails and dramatic backdrops makes it one of the best spots in Iceland to disconnect and explore on foot.

8. Westfjords

• 📍 Location: Northwest Iceland
• 🏆 Best For: Off-the-grid travelers 🧭, wildlife watchers 🐦, dramatic landscapes lovers 🌊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to Dynjandi waterfall, spotting puffins at Látrabjarg cliffs, soaking in Reykjafjarðarlaug hot spring
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for open roads and wildlife viewing 🐧
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Holt Inn – Remote guesthouse with fjord views and cozy rooms

The Westfjords are Iceland’s wild side. This remote region sees fewer tourists, but those who make the trip are rewarded with steep cliffs, deep fjords, and an overwhelming sense of peace. Driving here takes time due to winding roads, but the views more than make up for it.

Dynjandi is the crown jewel of the area. This massive, multi-tiered waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff in a way that almost feels unreal. Nearby, the Látrabjarg cliffs are a nesting ground for puffins and other seabirds, giving you a close-up view of Iceland’s birdlife.

Natural hot springs like Reykjafjarðarlaug are tucked into the hills, offering scenic places to relax without the crowds. If you’re craving solitude, jaw-dropping landscapes, and raw Icelandic nature, the Westfjords feel like a world apart from the country’s more visited spots.

9. Landmannalaugar

• 📍 Location: Highlands, Fjallabak Nature Reserve
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, color chasers 🎨, hot spring soakers 💦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Laugavegur Trail, soaking in geothermal pools, admiring rhyolite mountains
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to early September for dry trails and 4×4 access 🏔️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Highland Center Hrauneyjar – Rustic base with restaurant and tour access nearby

Landmannalaugar is one of the most visually stunning areas in Iceland. Its colorful rhyolite mountains look like something out of a painting, with shades of red, green, and gold streaking across the landscape. This region sits deep in the Highlands and is only reachable in summer via rough roads that require a 4×4.

The area is best known for its hiking. Trails range from easy loops to multi-day treks like the Laugavegur Trail, which begins here and stretches toward Thorsmork. The geothermal hot springs near the campsite are perfect for a soak after a long day of walking.

With fewer crowds and jaw-dropping terrain in every direction, Landmannalaugar feels far removed from the rest of Iceland. It’s a destination that rewards adventurous spirits and rewards them with some of the most colorful scenery in the country.

10. Húsavík

• 📍 Location: North Coast, Skjálfandi Bay
• 🏆 Best For: Whale watchers 🐋, quiet town lovers 🏘️, marine life fans 🐬
• 📸 Top Experiences: Taking a whale watching tour, visiting Húsavík Whale Museum, exploring Húsavíkurkirkja
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for peak whale sightings and calm seas 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fosshotel Húsavík – Nautical-themed hotel close to the harbor

Húsavík is Iceland’s whale watching capital, and the small-town charm here only adds to the experience. Located on Skjálfandi Bay, this fishing town has become a go-to destination for spotting humpback whales, minke whales, and even blue whales during the summer season.

Tours leave regularly from the harbor, with some offering silent electric boats for a more eco-friendly and peaceful ride. Even on land, the town offers plenty to explore. The Whale Museum provides insight into marine life and conservation efforts, while Húsavíkurkirkja stands out with its striking wooden design.

You can walk the whole town in a short time, but you won’t be bored. Cafés serve fresh fish and waffles, and the waterfront is a peaceful place to watch the boats return. For those craving a slow-paced visit mixed with big nature moments, Húsavík makes a memorable stop.

11. Heimaey Island

• 📍 Location: Westman Islands, South Coast
• 🏆 Best For: Volcano trekkers 🌋, puffin spotters 🐦, island hoppers 🚤
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Eldfell volcano, visiting Eldheimar Museum, watching puffins at Stórhöfði
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for birdwatching and calm ferry rides 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Guesthouse Hóll – Homey guesthouse near the harbor with friendly hosts
  

Heimaey is the largest island in the Westman archipelago, and its volcanic history gives it a landscape like nowhere else in Iceland. After the 1973 eruption of Eldfell, the island expanded in size and had to rebuild from near disaster. Today, you can hike the crater and get panoramic views of the coastline below.

The island is also famous for its puffin colonies. During summer, thousands of puffins nest on the cliffs at Stórhöfði, making it one of the best birdwatching spots in the country. Boat tours also circle the island, offering sea cave views and close encounters with marine life.

For history lovers, Eldheimar Museum gives a moving look into the eruption and how locals survived it. The small-town vibe and walkable size make Heimaey an easy, rewarding day trip or overnight escape that combines wildlife, nature, and local resilience.

12. Kirkjufell Mountain

• 📍 Location: Snæfellsnes Peninsula, West Iceland
• 🏆 Best For: Landscape photographers 📷, nature lovers 🌄, Game of Thrones fans 🐉
• 📸 Top Experiences: Photographing Kirkjufell with Kirkjufellsfoss, hiking the nearby trail, catching Northern Lights in winter
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to March for auroras or summer for clear hikes 🌌
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kirkjufell Guesthouse – Cozy base with unbeatable views of the mountain

Kirkjufell might be the most photographed mountain in Iceland, and once you see it in person, it’s easy to understand why. Its symmetrical peak rises dramatically above the landscape, and with Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall flowing in the foreground, the photo opportunities feel endless.

Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the mountain is easy to reach by car and is especially popular at sunrise and sunset. In winter, the surrounding snow adds another layer of magic, especially when the Northern Lights light up the sky behind it.

A short trail runs around the base of the mountain, offering different vantage points without being too strenuous. While climbing to the summit is only for experts with proper gear, most visitors are content admiring the view from below. Kirkjufell is a simple stop that leaves a lasting impression with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Iceland

Looking to broaden your understanding of the most scenic spots in Iceland? Here are some frequently asked questions I receive about the finest Icelandic attractions and activities.

Is Iceland the most beautiful place in the world?

Iceland is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s known for its stunning landscapes, including glaciers, hot springs, volcanoes, waterfalls, and the Northern Lights. However, beauty is subjective. Different people might have different opinions on what is the most beautiful place in the world. Other locations might be considered equally or more beautiful depending on individual preferences and experiences.

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to see. For milder weather and endless daylight, the summer months of June through August are best. For Northern Lights viewing, visit between September and April.

What is the most beautiful place in Iceland?

Iceland is filled with stunning landscapes and natural wonders, so it’s tough to pick just one. However, areas like Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, Golden Circle, and Vatnajökull National Park are often praised for their exceptional beauty.

Which part of Iceland is the most beautiful?

All regions of Iceland have their unique beauty, but many visitors are particularly drawn to the South Coast for its waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in miniature,” also offers a bit of everything.

Which side of Iceland is best?

Iceland is a country of diverse landscapes and attractions, and the “best” side largely depends on individual preferences and what you’re hoping to experience. Here’s a breakdown of what each region of Iceland offers:

1. South Iceland:
   • Attractions: Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall), Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, Vatnajökull National Park, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
   • Accessibility: Easily accessible from Reykjavik, making it one of the most visited regions.
2. West Iceland (including the Snæfellsnes Peninsula):
   • Attractions: Snæfellsjökull National Park, Kirkjufell mountain, Deildartunguhver hot spring, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, and historic sites like Reykholt.
   • Diversity: Offers a bit of everything – glaciers, volcanoes, beaches, and historical sites.
3. Reykjavik and Southwest Iceland:
   • Attractions: The capital city of Reykjavik with its cultural and historical sites, the Blue Lagoon, and the geothermal area of Krýsuvík.
   • Convenience: A starting point for most travelers, with international airport, accommodations, and services.
4. North Iceland:
   • Attractions: Akureyri (Iceland’s second-largest city), Mývatn geothermal area, Húsavík (whale watching capital), Dettifoss (Europe’s most powerful waterfall), and Ásbyrgi canyon.
   • Activities: Whale watching, bird watching, and bathing in geothermal pools.
5. East Iceland:
   • Attractions: Seyðisfjörður (a picturesque fjord town), Petra’s Stone Collection, and the East Fjords’ rugged coastline.
   • Wildlife: A good region for reindeer spotting.
6. Westfjords:
   • Attractions: Látrabjarg bird cliffs, Rauðasandur red sand beach, Dynjandi waterfall, and the Westfjords’ remote fjords.
   • Remoteness: Less visited than other regions, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

Each region of Iceland has its unique charm and attractions. The best side or region would depend on your interests, whether it’s chasing waterfalls, hiking in remote areas, experiencing geothermal wonders, or exploring fjords and coastlines. If time allows, a full circle around the Ring Road will provide a comprehensive Icelandic experience.

What is Iceland’s most popular destination?

The most popular destination in Iceland is the Golden Circle route. This tourist trail includes several of Iceland’s most famous sites, including Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

How many days do I need to visit Iceland?

A week is a good starting point for a trip to Iceland. This allows you to explore the main attractions along the Ring Road while still having some flexibility. However, more time will allow for a more relaxed pace or for venturing off the beaten path.

Do I need a car to travel in Iceland?

Having a car is beneficial because it provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace. That being said, there are also bus tours and guided tours available to many of the top sites.

What should I wear in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential. Don’t forget warm socks, sturdy shoes, and a hat and gloves, even in summer.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Iceland

As you can see, the most beautiful places in Iceland range from enchanting waterfalls and dramatic landscapes to quaint coastal towns and vast national parks. Each location offers a unique charm, making any visit to this breathtaking country an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquillity, planning a first-time visit or a return trip, Iceland’s stunning scenery and diverse attractions will undoubtedly leave you captivated. So, pack your bags, get your camera ready, and embark on an extraordinary journey to explore the best places in Iceland. Remember, every corner of this island nation holds something beautiful — just waiting to be discovered by you.