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Your Iceland Vacation

Geysers force boiling water into the icy air and volcanoes spit fire to create a dramatic landscape rich in geological treasures ripe for exploring on an Iceland vacation package in 2024. Dark clear skies at night create ideal conditions for Northern Lights sightings. Hot springs like the Blue Lagoon offer a blissful way to relax after hiking across glaciers. With deals on Iceland vacation packages with airfare included, you can pick your flight to Reykjavik , and choose one of the many gorgeous hotels catering for families, couples, and adventurers alike. Grab a great deal with our latest Iceland travel packages for a truly unique vacation.

Top destinations in Iceland

Rangárþing eystra

Bláskógabyggd

Reykjanesbær

Vik I Myrdal

Hafnarfjordur

The latest iceland vacation packages.

ODDSSON Hotel

Reviewed on Apr 24, 2024

Kvosin Downtown Hotel

Reviewed on Apr 27, 2024

Hotel Leifur Eiriksson

Reviewed on Apr 25, 2024

Reykjavik Residence Hotel

Reviewed on Apr 22, 2024

Exeter Hotel

Reviewed on Apr 30, 2024

Iceland Vacation

Iceland's windswept fjords, lava fields and black-sand beaches offer endless photo opportunities, while its capital Reykjavik will keep you entertained with hip bars, eateries and nightlife.

Iceland Hotel + Flights

There are 2,209 hotels to choose from with Expedia starting at $121 a night. The even better news? If you bundle your flights and hotel with us, you stand to save some serious cash. While you’re at it, you might like to add a rental car and some exciting experiences to your Iceland Vacation Package. Not afraid of the cold? Add a tour of Langjokull Glacier and Ice Cave to your package.

Your Iceland Vacation Itinerary

Day 1: Pick up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport. It’s less than an hour’s drive to Reykjavik from here, but you’ll want to allow an extra few hours for a soak at the iconic Blue Lagoon on the way.

Day 2: From Reykjavik, head out on a day trip around the Golden Circle. This famous route takes you past some of Iceland’s most mesmerizing sights — Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Spring Area and Gullfoss Falls.

Day 3: Explore the coastal town of Vik. With its uninterrupted skies, this is a great spot to view the northern lights. The beautiful basalt beach, Reynisfjara, and the nearby puffin cliffs are also must-sees.

Iceland Information

Held each February, the Winter Lights Festival will brighten your nights if you decide to visit at this time of year.

There’s lots to see and do in Iceland’s capital. Start planning your time here with our Reykjavik Vacation Packages .

Top Vacation Destinations in Iceland

Check out the old Incan capital on a Cusco vacation

Cusco is an iconic historic city in Peru that was once the capital of the Inca Empire. You'll still be able to find much of the ancient structures here, though most of the city is dominated by Spanish Colonial style architecture. Numerous museums here have massive collections of Incan artifacts, but you'll be often better off simply visiting the local ruins where you can see stonework up close in action.

Discover the capital with Lima vacation packages

Lima is the capital of Peru and one of the more unique destinations in the country. This city holds on well to tradition, but they've mixed it in with modern offerings too. You'll find old colonial buildings, for example, right alongside world-class eateries that have an impact on the global stage. In fact, Lima is often considered the culinary capital of South America.

Explore history with Machu Picchu vacation packages

Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic and impressive wonders of the world. This Incan marvel showcases brilliant ingenuity, and it's been incredibly well-preserved over the centuries since it was built. You'll find it all high up in the mountains, surrounded by peaks and vibrant greenery. Local tours are also available that can offer supplementary information for your visit.

Embrace nature with Northern Iceland vacation packages

Northern Iceland is one of the most memorable destinations, thanks to its stunning natural features. You'll find geysers here along with towering mountains. One of the most iconic sights is the Northern Lights, in which lights of green and blue appear in the night sky as an effect of the planet's magnetic field. Tours of all of this are readily available, if you'd rather not go out on your own.

Explore Iceland's capital with Reykjavik vacation packages.

Reykjavik offers everything from museums and nightlife to an outstanding eco-tourism industry. This city is one of the few in the world entirely powered by geothermal energy. You can head for sites like the towering Reykjavik Art Museum with its unusual architecture and fantastic paintings, sculptures, and media collections. Enjoy fine dining and finer shopping, and go home feeling a little more Viking than you did before.

Iceland Essential Information

Prepare for your iceland vacation with our essential travel info, iceland hotel deals.

Reviewed on Apr 26, 2024

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in iceland, reykjavik harbour.

Start your stay in Reykjavík with a trip to this antique port district, the point of departure for city tours, boat rides and more.

Blue Lagoon

Soak away your aches, get a massage treatment and swim in the milky blue waters of this mineral-rich geothermal pool sculpted by lava in Grindavik.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Explore the great outdoors at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a popular spot to commune with nature in Hofn. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's glaciers.

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Iceland Tour & Vacation Packages

Greenland’s the icy one; Iceland’s the green one. But remember this: they don’t call part of it the Golden Circle for nothing.

Calling all nature lovers, adventure seekers and fearless travelers. Iceland may be cold, but that’s the point—you’ll get to see all the glaciers, geysers and geothermal wonders you can handle. Discover a land of natural color: hues of azure at the  Blue Lagoon  and the icy Jokulsarlon, shades of green on the rolling hills framing Skogafoss and the striking black sand beaches that hug the coast. Not to mention the magical aurora borealis  that dance across the sky! From uncovering Viking tales and bathing in steamy springs to cruising past icebergs and exploring quirky farm towns,  Iceland  is island life like no other.

Our Iceland trips

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Iceland tour reviews

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Six Days in Iceland

Northern Lights Escape

Articles of Iceland

Why 2024 is the best year to see the northern lights

How the Icelandic hot dog became an international icon 

Iceland’s Folklore: 4 mythical creatures that make the scenery come alive

Top 12 things to do in Iceland

6 of the best hikes in Iceland

10 ways to get closer to nature with Intrepid  

In sickness and in health: How I ended up getting married on an Intrepid Iceland trip 

Iceland or Greenland? Which country should be next on your travel list? 

We also travel to

Iceland at a glance, capital city.

Reykjavik (population approximately 123,000)

Approximately 372,520

(GMT) Monrovia, Reykjavik

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Iceland

Culture and customs.

Similar to many other parts of Europe , Iceland has rules in place to help preserve its culture and geographic isolation is also a factor in developing and preserving the country’s cultural qualities. Independence, self-sufficiency and a strong work ethic – traits that allowed this northern island to flourish in challenging conditions – continue to be highly valued today.

Icelandic culture and customs are full of myths and legends, many with a connection to Christian and pagan values. Folk tales of elves, gnomes, fairies and trolls still circulate, and whether or not the locals continue telling these to unlock the secrets of the past, or simply in jest, they’re definitely worth listening to. But when news outlets report on road plans being changed to avoid disrupting an elfin church, it’s easy to believe that this unusual country and its magical landscapes are a product of what lies ‘hidden’ in its mysterious depths.

Today, Iceland is a highly modern and progressive society. It is consistently rated as having the smallest gender pay gap and strong LGBTQIA+ rights representation in the parliament and media. It’s also one of the greenest countries in the world, with almost all energy coming from renewable resources such as hydropower and geothermal.

Read more about Iceland's History and Folklore

History and government

Pre-modern history.

This island nation was settled by Vikings in the ninth century, with much of the early literature recognizing Norse sailor Ingolfur Arnason as the first settler of Iceland, founding Reykjavik in AD874 along with his wife and brother. Icelanders remain proud to this day of their Viking heritage. The Icelandic language, for example, is so similar to the Old Norse spoken during Viking times that Icelanders can still read and understand the original Icelandic sagas.

A book of settlements titled Landnamabok, compiled in the 12th century, documents the names and other details of nearly 400 original settlers of Iceland who arrived in the ninth and tenth centuries. The document tells of a Norse Viking called Floki who sailed to Iceland for fishing and farming, however, due to his livestock not surviving in the conditions, had to return to his home in Norway. After heading up a mountain and looking over a fjord full of sea ice, he named this land Iceland.

In AD930, an Icelandic General Assembly was established and was deemed a Christian settlement less than a century later. Settlers and slaves brought to Iceland by Scandinavians were of Irish and Norse descent, and although some still debate which communities influenced the identity we now know to be Icelandic, the first distinctive text documenting ‘Icelandic-ness’ is said to be a rule book of sorts – the First Grammatical Treatise.

20th century and today

After long periods under Norwegian and Danish rule, Iceland was recognized as a sovereign state in 1918. On 17 June 1944, Iceland became an independent republic. It has a multi-party parliamentary system and a written constitution. The parliament is still called Althingi after its medieval General Assembly.

Many of Iceland’s major industries stem from its location and surrounding natural resources. Tourism aside, fishing and seafood products make up much of the country’s exports and employ a majority of the workforce along with agriculture and farming. Recent investment in greenhouses and geothermal energy has seen Iceland become increasingly self-sufficient, growing products that usually do not fare well in icy climates, such as potatoes, tomatoes and potted plants. Other food is imported along with many consumer goods.

Eating and drinking

Flanked by the ocean and inhabited by almost twice the amount of sheep as humans, Iceland understandably boasts a cuisine dominated by seafood and local lamb.

The country’s diet relies on plenty of potatoes and lamb, but seafood trumps all – sourced fresh year-round from the waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic and prepared in a variety of ways. Be sure to try Hardfiskur – a salty fish jerky, best enjoyed buttered.

Sheep and cows are free-range and fed chemical-free diets, making lamb and dairy products exceptionally good here. One of the best ways to enjoy the produce on offer is to warm yourself up from the inside out with a hearty meat soup: a mixture of lamb, root vegetables, herbs, and rice.

Skyr, a popular yogurt that is technically a cheese, is also a must-try in all its variety of flavors. Eat it like the locals do at any time of the day – for breakfast, as a snack, as a dipping sauce, in drink form (called drykkur), or as a dessert topping.

Surprisingly, hot dogs are Iceland’s most iconic fast food. Widely available, a hot dog is probably the cheapest meal you’ll have in Iceland. Order one with all the toppings – sweet mustard, ketchup, raw onions, deep-fried onions, and aioli.

Rye bread (also known as rugbraud) and butter is a common side to most meals in Iceland, but the preferred way of cooking the loaves are quite unique. Traditionally, the bread is buried near a natural hot spring, sprinkled with sugar, and left to gently steam for up to 24 hours. The end result is dense, cake-like bread that has a slightly sweet taste. Enjoy it with a traditional Icelandic soup, smoked lamb, or, of course, fish.

Name a food and chances are Icelanders have tried to add licorice to it. Black licorice is beloved by locals and found in a wide range of desserts and candy bars. During your time here, head to Valdis in Reykjavik to test out a cone filled with salted black licorice ice cream. Even if the weather’s cold, the ice cream joints will be open!

The weird and wacky

Icelanders have a reputation for serving up some of the most unusual food in the world – boiled sheep’s head, fermented shark known as harkarl, ram testicles and smoked puffin to name a few. Although the country’s isolation and harsh winters once meant these foods were eaten out of necessity, today most of these ‘delicacies’ are only prepared to shock tourists. Try if you dare, but we suggest sticking to the common foods that locals eat.

Alcohol can be expensive in Iceland and is best bought at the duty-free shop. Although forms of prohibition existed until 1989, alcohol is now widely available all over the country in state-run liquor stores. If you’re feeling brave, try the local brew, Brennivin – a potent, traditional caraway-flavored schnapps nicknamed ‘black death’.

Read more about what to eat in Iceland

Read more about what to drink in Iceland

Iceland travel highlights

1. explore reykjavik.

Iceland's capital city is totally beguiling, surrounded by volcanic peaks and boasting a vibrant art and nightlife scene. Browse the city’s galleries, explore the colorful street art, dine on fresh lox (traditionally cured salmon),   or cycle to the striking cathedral of Hallgrimskirkja – trying to say that after a tipple or two of Brennivin (Iceland's signature spirit) might be tricky! Get stuck into Icelandic culture on our 6 day Northern Lights Escape .

2. Discover the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is the holy trinity of southern Iceland. This 186-mile (300 km) route is brimming with natural wonders that showcase why so many travelers fall under Iceland's spell. Marvel at the layered cascades of Gullfoss Waterfall, explore the dramatic rift valley in Thingvellir National Park and witness the unpredictable eruptions in Geysir Geothermal Area. Marvel at breathtaking natural landscapes on our 5 day Iceland Express tour.

3. Cruise along Jokulsarlon

It's impossible not to be amazed by the sheer size and beauty of Jokulsarlon, Iceland’s famous glacial lagoon. Enjoy a boat tour along the icy waters where you'll cruise past towering glaciers and witness icebergs of all shapes, sizes and shades of blue drifting into the Atlantic Ocean. Cool down on our 8 day Iceland Discovery tour.

4. Experience life in Akureyri

Soak up the charm of this northern port city – the second-largest city in Iceland. Better described as a big town with lots of character, you'll be won over by its quaint turf homes, rich history and folklore, and the imposing Mount Súlur that looms over the town. Akureyri is also an ideal Northern Lights viewing location between September and April. Explore the streets of Akureyri on our 9 day Premium Iceland tour.

5. Be wowed by Westfjords

Venture off course to the unspoiled, untamed reaches of the Westfjords – without the big crowds. This is a land where mountains meet the sea most dramatically, where waterfalls tumble down into the inky fjords and puffins live along the towering cliffs. If you’re lucky and conditions allow, we might cruise along Látrabjarg (Europe’s largest bird cliff) to see puffins, razorbills, guillemots and more. Adventure through the Westfjords on our 14 day East Greenland and Iceland Northern Lights tour.

6. Bathe in the Blue Lagoon

There's no need to worry about being cold all the time in Iceland when you can slip into the famous Blue Lagoon just out of Reykjavik. Surrounded by black volcanic rock, a soak in the mineral-rich, milk-blue waters of this geothermal spa is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a big day of walking. 

Geography and environment

Iceland possesses some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders and unique landscapes. From active volcanoes to vast ice fields, bubbling hot springs and enormous glaciers, these dramatic contrasts have earned Iceland the nickname of the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’.

Many of these geological features are products of geographical location – on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates intersect and their movements away from each other create volcanic activity. The country is covered by moss-carpeted lava fields, soaring fjords, incredible waterfalls and dramatic geysers, all of which add to Iceland’s otherworldly look.

The country is also the perfect spot to see the Northern Lights. From September to March, you’ll have the best chance to view this spectacular natural light show when the skies are clear and auroral activity is high. But don’t let that stop you from visiting in other seasons – Iceland’s natural wonders are truly year-round attractions.

Top 4 natural phenomena of Iceland

1. Northern Lights

The Northern Hemisphere's Aurora Borealis has captivated and intrigued travelers for years. Any winter tour of Iceland absolutely must include a chance to see the Northern Lights. This natural light display that runs along magnetic fields often brings hypnotic green, yellow and red shades to the night sky in Iceland from September to March. As one of nature's most magnificent triumphs, this is one unforgettable spectacle.

2. Gullfoss

Otherwise known as Golden Falls, this spectacular three-tiered waterfall drops suddenly into a deep cavern. The falls are surrounded by lush, green countryside, and the rainbows created by the mist and spray provide brilliant photo opportunities.

3. Lake Myvatn

This part of northern Iceland was born from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago and continues to be shaped by volcanic activity to this day. The combination of strange lava formations, thermal caves and a sprawling lake dotted with craters and rising rocks makes for an eerie yet beautiful landscape.

4. Jokulsarlon

Literally translating to ‘glacial river lagoon’, this monumental glacier lake is the largest in Iceland. Featuring a parade of large and small blue icebergs floating on and under the pure, icy water, this lagoon is so beautiful that it has been used as a backdrop for Hollywood films, a set for reality television shows and in a starring role on a postage stamp!

Iceland is notorious for being an expensive destination. Travelling on a budget here is difficult but can be done. Head to Bonus – Iceland’s discount grocery store – so you can cook rather than eat out for each meal. The duty-free store at Keflavik International Airport is the best place to pick up a bottle of Icelandic alcohol such as Brennivin liquor, Reyka vodka or Viking Gold beer for a fraction of the price you’d find elsewhere. It’s also a good idea to travel as a group, as operators can get better rates than a single traveler at hotels and restaurants, plus they know all the local hotspots.

If you’d like to take home Icelandic local specialties, Reykjavik is the best place to shop. Some of the country’s coolest retailers can be found on Laugavegur, one of the oldest shopping streets. Here you can browse clothing from quirky local designers alongside traditional lambswool sweaters, as well as tourist shops selling plastic Viking hats and puffin magnets. For smaller boutiques selling local art, head to Skolavordustigur.

Festival and events

Despite the long and dark winters, Icelanders are among the happiest people in the world. Why? One reason is that they understand the importance of getting together and having a good time, even if it’s pitch black outside. There are many celebrations to join in on throughout the year, but here are a few to look out for:

Winter Lights Festival

Every year, buildings around Reykjavik light up at night to celebrate both the winter world and the growing light after a long period of darkness. The Winter Lights Festival uses many public buildings and all major museums and thermal pools to illuminate the city with lighting designs and art installations as a way to get people thawed out after a long winter.

This annual mid-winter feast in January or February is one of Iceland’s oldest festivals, dating back to Viking days. Fearless eaters can find restaurants in Reykjavik offering special Thorrablot dinners of boiled sheep’s head, rotten shark’s meat, and cured ram testicles. If you can, try to snag an invitation to a local’s house, where celebrations tend to be more festive and involve lots of singing, dancing, and drinking.

Viking Festival

Modern-day Vikings in traditional garb flock to Hafnarfjorour each June for a festival Leif Erikson would approve of. Swordfights, archery, axe throwing, a traditional market, concerts, and a proper Viking feast are all part of the festivities.

National Day

1944 marks the year that Iceland became a republic after an overwhelming majority of the citizens voted for independence. The deciding referendum took place between May 20 and 23 that year; however, Iceland’s National day is celebrated on June 17th – the birthday of the man who originally led the movement in the late 19th century, Jon Sigurdsson. There are parades all around the country, usually with brass bands and marching horses. Music food, fireworks, and street parties – you get it, they’re a patriotic bunch.

Dalvik Fiskidagurinn Mikli (The Great Fish Day)

Each August, the northern fishing village of Dalvik invites you to a free, all-you-can-eat fish and seafood buffet – held for no reason other than to get people together over a delicious meal. You might come for the free food, but you’ll stay for the company.

Read more about festivals in Iceland

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Iceland adventure, check out these books:

• Independent People   – Halldor Laxness
• Jar City   – Arnaldur Indridason
• The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland   – Alda Sigmundsdottir
• Waking Up in Iceland   – Paul Sullivan
• The Tricking of Freya   – Christina Sunley
• Viking Age Iceland   – Jesse L Bycock
• The Far Traveler: Voyages of a Viking Woman   – Nancy Marie Brown
• Burial Rites   – Hannah Kent
• The Book of Settlements: Landnamabok   – Herman Palsson (trans.)

Discover more about visiting Iceland from our travel experts in our Complete Guide to Iceland.

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around Iceland. The options below may be of interest:

Tours to Reykjavik 

Northern Lights Tours

Iceland or Greenland

Iceland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Deciding what you want to see in Iceland will give you a better idea of when is the best time to travel. Wanting to get active around the countryside and see waterfalls and wildlife? The warmer spring and summer months are probably ideal. Prefer to soak in the geothermal lagoons and get a chance to see the Northern Lights? Well, likely the cooler months – with their longer nights – are best for you.

Spring and summer are considered optimal times to visit Iceland if green landscapes and balmy days are your thing. The early spring months bring warmer days, while summer offers long daylight hours with only short nights. In the summer season, July and August are the warmest months and the busiest time for tourists.

In September, tourism tends to slow down as the weather becomes unpredictable and the countryside is usually less accessible. However, there are plenty of attractions for the off-peak traveler, including the beauty of fall colors and, of course, the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.

As you might expect, winters in Iceland can be challenging. During late December there are about four-and-a-half hours of daylight and it's often cloudy. In January, there are on average three sunny days in Reykjavík, with temperatures hovering around freezing point, often with chilling winds.

Do I need a visa to travel to Iceland?

Iceland is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Iceland, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement. Other countries do require a visa to visit Iceland, including citizens of South Africa.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your country of origin. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Iceland?

Tipping isn't expected in Iceland. Hotels, restaurants and cafes already include a service fee and consumption taxes (VAT) in the bill, so tipping extra isn't necessary. However, feel free to leave a small amount if your experience has been particularly good, especially for assistance provided by drivers, tour leaders or service workers.

What is the internet access like in Iceland?

Travelers will be able to access the internet in cybercafes and at wi-fi hotspots in Iceland's cities and large towns. Rural and remote areas may have less internet access, so be prepared when traveling away from the city.

Most accommodation and eateries in Iceland offer wi-fi access, which is usually free to use with a code. If you wish to stay connected for the majority of your trip, it may be wise to purchase a prepaid SIM card with a data package.

Many Icelandic libraries and tourist information offices have shared computers for public internet access if you are without a device to connect to wi-fi. Sometimes a small fee is charged for this service.

Can I use my cell phone while in Iceland?

Travelers can use their cell phones in Iceland's main cities and towns, though remote and isolated areas may have inferior cell reception.

If you wish to stay connected for the majority of your trip, it may be wise to purchase a prepaid SIM card for the duration of your journey. This will likely be the cheapest way to use your phone in Iceland.

For EU citizens, depending on who you have your phone plan with, you may be able to use your current SIM in Iceland – your service provider will be able to provide more details.

Global roaming can also be activated, but check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur, as sometimes this can be expensive.

What are the toilets like in Iceland?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in Iceland.

In terms of public toilets, Reykjavik and other major towns and cities have some, but along highways and at many tourist destinations – especially campgrounds and natural attractions – there is a lack of facilities. Expect to pay a small fee when visiting public toilets and, in busy months, expect queues in main tourist areas.

There have been recent occurrences of tourists resorting to other means in remote places and near tourist sites. We recommend being prepared and talking to your group leader if you have any concerns.

What will it cost for a…?

Iceland's unit of currency is the krona. Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Hotdog = ISK 400-600
• Glass of beer = ISK 1,100-1,500
• Simple lunch at a cafe = ISK 2,100-3.700
• Dinner in a restaurant = ISK 2.600-4.200

Can I drink the water in Iceland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in Iceland unless marked otherwise. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Iceland?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Iceland and are used frequently by locals to pay for just about anything. Paying with a credit card at shops, guesthouses, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, and on taxi rides shouldn't present a problem. Iceland is almost a cashless society, so cards are the best option; however, a lot of payments will require your four-digit PIN, so be sure to know this before you leave home.

What is ATM access like in Iceland?

ATMs are usually easy to find in Iceland's cities and villages and generally accept most foreign cards.

What public holidays are celebrated in Iceland?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• Mar/Apr: Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Monday*
• 1 May: Labur Day
• May/Jun: Ascension Day*
• May/Jun: Whit Sunday and Whit Monday*
• 17 Jun: National Day
• First Monday in August Commerce Day*
• 24 Dec: Christmas Eve
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Boxing Day
• 31 Dec: New Year's Eve

*Please note, Iceland public holidays may vary.

What is the weather like in Iceland?

Iceland’s temperatures are cool and do vary throughout the year. In winter months, minimum temperatures plummet to below freezing. In Reykjavik, summer temperatures average at around 52°F, while winter maximums are approximately 32°F. Rainfall is quite consistent throughout the year; between 25–50 mm per month, with most days experiencing some rainfall.

Is it safe to travel to Iceland?

Iceland is a very safe country to travel to and is one of the safest countries in the world.

Is Iceland safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

The people of Iceland have an open and accepting attitude to LGBTQIA+ communities, and Iceland is considered one of the world’s most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries. Since 2006, same-sex couples have had equal access to adoption and IVF, and in 2010 the Icelandic Parliament made a unanimous decision to define marriage as between two individuals. As might be expected in a small country, however, the gay scene is quite low-key, even in Reykjavik.

In 2012, more legislation was passed to formalize the name and identity-changing process for the needs of trans and genderqueer individuals. There is still a way to go to achieve full equality, but Iceland is, in many regards, leading the way globally.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel and reading more about the LGBTQIA+ culture in Iceland .

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Iceland accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Because of its remote location and size, Iceland can prove difficult when it comes to accessibility for individuals with mobility issues. Some of the main sights, such as the Blue Lagoon, are wheelchair accessible, but many of the natural attractions have unpaved paths and unsteady terrain. Iceland has a dedicated information center,  Thekkingarmidstod Sjalfsbjorg , that provides up-to-date information on accessibility and accessible facilities in Iceland, as well as other related information.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Iceland

In summer, Iceland experiences cool but mild weather throughout the country, with maximum temperatures averaging around 55°F. It’s still important, however, to pack some warm clothing at this time, as temperatures at night can drop quite dramatically. In winter, some days barely reach over 32°F, so preparing for this is crucial. It can be wet and windy, and roads may be iced over, so thermal gear, a waterproof jacket and pants and sturdy walking boots are all highly recommended.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How will I be traveling around Iceland?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are much more fun.

Depending on what trip you're on in Iceland, you may find yourself traveling by:

All-terrain Unimog

To see all of Iceland, you’ll need some heavy-duty transport. This super-sized van will take you on glacier visits to admire these almighty ice caps up close.

Amphibian boat

Part truck, part boat, all adventure ­– cruise the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon in a small group aboard one of these vessels, on land and lake.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

12 top places to visit in Iceland in 2024

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Iceland has lots to offer – here's our 12 favorite places to visit © evenfh / Shutterstock

Iceland appears on the must-do lists of many travelers – its charming cities and towns, other-worldly landscapes and astronomical phenomena keep the crowds coming back for more every year.

But how do you choose the highlights of your trip in a country packed with so many of them ? Don't worry, we've picked twelve incredible places, some of which are on the beaten path and some of which are not, but all of which might surprise you. Here are our favorite places to visit in Iceland  in 2024.

1. Mosfellsbær

Best for a quiet escape near Reykjavík

Reykjavík’s friendly rural neighbor is Mosfellsbær . Its biggest attractions are the small mountains that surround the town, including Úlfarsfell, Mosfell, Helgafell and Reykjafell – all great for short hikes. Lake Hafravatn is a gem that locals flock to for swimming and kayaking fun. Time your visit to coincide with the popular vegetable market that carries the produce of local farmers, open every Saturday in late summer in the valley.

The valley is also host to Gljúfrasteinn , a museum dedicated to Nobel Prize laureate Halldór Laxness, and Laxnes farm, which offers horseback riding tours. Álafosskvos is a tiny art and design village with a long-standing yarn store and local craft stores full of beautifully made items you'll want to bring home.

Planning tip: You can visit Mosfellsbær year-round. Þingvellir National Park is a short drive away – avoid the crowds by visiting between September and May .

Best base on the Golden Circle

In rural South Iceland lies Flúðir, best known for its mushroom greenhouse. If mushrooms are your thing, the greenhouse’s bistro offers all things funghi-related. Continue your gastronomic adventure and try authentic Ethiopian food at Minilik . Nearby is the Secret Lagoon , known locally as Gamla Laugin, and Hrunalaug , a small natural pool with stacked stone walls in the peaceful countryside. Flúðir is on the Golden Circle with some of the country’s best-known attractions within reach – it’s the perfect base for exploring the region.

Planning tip: It’s best not to visit Flúðir in the summer. It's the height of the tourist season, and spring and autumn are more enjoyable.

3. Stokkseyri

Best kayaking tours near Reykjavík

This charming South Coast village attracts foodies from far and wide to its seafood restaurant Fjöruborðið  – the lobster is especially popular. Kayaking in its narrow channels is a calm and fun activity, and the neighboring village of Eyrarbakki has beautifully restored timber houses and a heritage museum in a home that seems frozen in time. Nearby is Raufarhólshellir , one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland.

Planning tip: You can visit Stokkseyri and engage in most of the activities year-round, but service hours may change in winter, and kayaking depends on the weather.

Best base for glacial tours

In the kingdom of Vatnajökull , harbor town Höfn welcomes you with its lobster restaurants and stunning glacial views. This is a great base for exploring Europe’s largest glacier, from Jökulsárlón and other glacial lagoons with their floating icebergs to glacial hikes, snowmobile tours and ever-changing ice caves. Among local tour operators is the family-run company Glacier Journey .

Planning tip: You can visit year-round, but the ice-caving season is roughly from November through March. Glacial hikes are usually not possible at the height of summer. Always go with a guide and in good weather.

5. Borgarfjörður eystri

Best place for puffin-watching

The tiny village of Bakkagerði is surrounded by colorful mountains in Borgarfjörður eystri, one of the more remote Eastfjords. Getting there is an adventure in its own right as the road winds its way up and down a mountain pass. As you enter the village, time seems to slow down. Here you can relax and enjoy nature, go on hikes, explore on two wheels or treat yourself to a boat tour  and watch puffins up close from the bird-watching house on Hafnarhólmi.

Planning tips: To see puffins, visit from mid-May to early August. Christmas-related events take place during Advent, and snow sports are possible during winter.

6. Hallormsstaðaskógur

Best for camping in the woods

Visit Iceland’s largest forest and be amazed by its size. The campsite in Atlavík , on the banks of Lake Lagarfljót, is one of the country’s best and most popular among local tourists. There are 40 km (25 miles) of walking paths around the forest, so you can lose yourself among the trees and then climb up and enjoy the view of the lake – perhaps even catch a glimpse of the vicious wyrm that is said to inhabit it. Egilsstaðir, East Iceland’s largest town, is only 30 minutes away, and some of the region’s biggest attractions, like Hengifoss waterfall , are also close by.

Planning tips: Visit between June and August for camping. A forest festival is held around Midsummer’s Day, and mid-August to mid-September is the berry-picking season. Enjoy autumn colors from late August through October.

Best place for whale watching

Visit Iceland’s whale-watching capital and enjoy the friendly atmosphere as you stroll around the harbor. Joining a whale-watching tour of Skjálfandi Bay with one of the local tour operators is a must, perhaps combined with a bird-watching tour or a visit to Flatey Island , which was inhabited until the 1960s.

Learn more about whales at the fascinating Whale Museum , enjoy a beer at Gamli Baukur and try the salted cod at Salka Restaurant . Afterward, soak in the geothermal waters at Geosea and take in the gorgeous view of Skjálfandi. Húsavík is on the Diamond Circle and Arctic Coast Way.

Planning tips: Whale watching is available from March to November but is most enjoyable during the summer months.

8. Hauganes

Best place for a special bathing experience

There’s more than meets the eye at this hamlet on the shore of Eyjafjörður in North Iceland. The hot tubs on the beach have become quite the attraction, and it’s also tempting to brave the frigid waves. Try the salted cod at Baccalá restaurant and bar – it's prepared by local company Ektafiskur. You can also catch your own fish on sea angling tours and go whale watching from Hauganes. In the nearby village of Árskógssandur, Kaldi beer is brewed, and the brewery also offers beer baths . The ferry to the idyllic island Hrísey goes from Árskógssandur.

Planning tips: Visit for the midnight sun in the summer and northern lights in winter. Sea tours are best enjoyed in the summer.

9. Siglufjörður

Best for snow sports

Although it's best known as the location for the crime series Trapped , Siglufjörður is not scary at all. It’s a peaceful fishing community that used to be isolated – trapped, if you will – between tall mountains but has now been connected to the neighboring town of Ólafsfjörður by a tunnel. It was one of Iceland’s bustling herring processing centers during the boom that reached its height in the mid-20 th century.

This remarkable history is documented in the Herring Era Museum . Today, Siglufjörður is one of North Iceland’s centers for snow sports  – don't miss the popular Moroccan restaurant in town after a day on the slopes. Siglufjörður also has a beloved ski resort , and off-piste skiing is possible in the mountains of the Tröllaskagi peninsula.

Planning tips: Visit between January and March for cross-country and Alpine skiing at resorts. Off-piste skiing is usually possible through May. 

10. Hólmavík

Best base for exploring Strandir

On the northern coast of the Westfjords lies the fishing village Hólmavík, which has made a name for itself with its Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft . Diving into Iceland’s darker past, it tells tales of sorcerers and magic spells, witch burnings and other heinous acts. In a charming old house, Café Riis serves delicious pizzas and other treats.

The nearby town of Drangsnes has several  beachside hot tubs that could easily tempt you to spend the rest of the day gazing at the incredible scenery. A bumpy – and slightly scary – gravel road continues onwards along the Strandir region to some of Iceland’s remotest communities in Árneshreppur. At the edge of the world, you can book a night at Hótel Djúpavík .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer as the road to the remoter communities is often hazardous or closed in winter.

Best place for quiet contemplation

In the middle of Breiðafjörður Bay, between the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula , is an island which seems to have been lost in time. Only a handful of people live there year-round, but in summer the village comes to life when part-time residents come and stay in the beautifully restored houses. Walk around Flatey among grazing sheep and busy seabirds (watch out for the Arctic terns), look out at the ocean and find inner calm. The ferry goes between Stykkishólmur and Brjánslækur .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer when the weather is more stable for sailing and more services are open.

12. Húsafell

Best resort for diverse experiences

In the innermost part of Borgarfjörður in the West, almost at the foot of Langjökull glacier, is the forested paradise of Húsafell – its hotel, campground and cottages have made it very popular among local tourists. There are both easy and challenging walking paths, including to the spectacular waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Glacial tours are available from Húsafell, and Víðgelmir , a massive lava cave, is just a few minutes away. You can soak in the on-site swimming pools or go on a hike to the more exclusive Canyon Baths .

Planning tips: Visit year-round. Summer is best for camping and hiking, and winter is best for viewing the northern lights.

This article was first published Apr 15, 2021 and updated Mar 12, 2024.

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Planning a Trip to Iceland: DOs and DON’Ts (2024)

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Planning a trip to Iceland is more complicated than to many countries. With its stunning volcanoes, lava fields, fjords, beaches, and waterfalls, it’s no wonder that visitor numbers to Iceland have surged in recent years.

But many tourists underestimate how dangerous this wild and remote island can be.

Some take unnecessary risks and end up needing to be rescued, which is putting strain on Iceland’s volunteer rescue service. Visitors have even been injured or killed after accidents on glaciers, beaches, and cliffs.

This can be avoided, though, and there’s no reason you can’t have a wonderful, incident-free trip by following these Iceland travel tips.

I also include advice for making the most of your vacation in this beautiful country, quirky facts that make Iceland such a unique place to travel, and the latest travel restrictions.

Video: Planning an Iceland Vacation

When is the best time to visit iceland, how long should you spend in iceland, what’s the best way to travel in iceland, before you arrive in iceland, planning a trip to iceland: dos and don’ts, more iceland reading.

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I would happily visit Iceland at any time of year as each season offers a different experience.

Many people consider the summer months of June to August the best time to visit Iceland.

This is when the weather is warmest, although that doesn’t mean it’s hot. In Reykjavik average temperatures in July range from 9 – 14ºC (48 – 57ºF) and it can be colder in the north.

Summer is the time of the midnight sun with daylight hours ranging from 21 hours in late June to 18 hours in early August.

This is the best time of year for hiking, driving the Ring Road (as roads are clear), and seeing whales and puffins. Most attractions and cafes are open.

The downsides of visiting Iceland in the summer are that it’s much busier and more expensive.

Spring and Autumn

To avoid the crowds and high prices, it’s worth considering visiting in the shoulder season months of April/May (spring) and September/October (autumn).

The weather is cold at this time of year but not as extreme as the winter and there’s a good amount of daylight for exploring.

It’s also possible to see the northern lights in these months, although you’ll have more of a chance in April and October.

The downside is that some attractions and cafes are closed.

We loved visiting Iceland in late September when it wasn’t very busy.

We had around 12 hours of daylight and temperatures of –2ºC (28ºF) to 5ºC (40ºF). We enjoyed autumn colours in some locations, the first snowfall on the mountains, and even the northern lights.

See my guide to visiting Iceland in September for more on what to expect.

Iceland’s winter from November to March is the quietest and cheapest time of year to visit.

This is the best time of year to visit Iceland for the northern lights, beautiful snowy landscapes, and winter activities like ice caves and dog sledding.

The weather is cold but not as cold as you’d expect (around 0ºC/ 32ºF) and daylight is limited for exploring (only four hours in late December/early January).

The roads are often covered in snow and not all parts of the island are accessible at this time of year—it’s best to stay south. If you aren’t a confident driver, stay in Reykjavik and take tours.

The average length of stay in Iceland is around seven nights.

I recommend visiting for at least five nights—this is enough time to see some of the highlights within a few hours of Reykjavik such as the Golden Circle and Snaefellsnes Peninsula .

If you want to drive the entire 1332km (828 miles) Ring Road, which circumnavigates the island, the minimum time needed is one week. 10-14 days would be much better, though.

We visited Iceland for 12 nights and liked not being too rushed. We were able to have a couple of rest days when the weather was bad. See our western Iceland itinerary for details of where we went.

Public transport is very limited so the best way to tour Iceland is with your own vehicle.

If you can drive, the best way to see Iceland is to hire a car and do a self-drive trip around the island.

We use Booking.com Car Rentals  to find the best deal. We rented a 4WD car, which we appreciated on bumpy gravel roads in the Westfjords, but it isn’t strictly necessary for most Iceland trips.

We found driving around Iceland easy—there aren’t many roads so it’s difficult to get lost and there’s good cell phone signal for using Google Maps.

Renting a campervan is also a popular way to tour Iceland in the summer. You must park in designated camping zones, though.

Take Tours from Reykjavik

Another way to explore Iceland is to base yourself in Reykjavik and take day tours. You can get a shuttle bus from the airport into the city (which is very walkable).

See  Get Your Guide for a wide variety of trips such as the popular Golden Circle tour , whale watching on a luxury yacht , Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon , Sky Lagoon geothermal pool , and many more.

This is the best option if you can’t or don’t want to drive or are visiting in winter and aren’t confident driving on snowy roads. It’s also a good way to travel if you are visiting Iceland on your own.

• Save up – Iceland is expensive and you’ll enjoy your vacation more if you aren’t worrying about every penny (on chilly days we really appreciated those hot chocolate and cake breaks). Find out how much our Iceland trip cost . 
• Consider visiting in the off-season – Iceland gets very busy in the June to August summer months, so avoid the crowds by visiting at a different time of year.

• Plan your itinerary – See our off the beaten track Iceland itinerary  for trips of 7 to 12 days or follow the classic ring road around the country (at least 10 days is recommended). Roads in the north are often impassable in winter so stick to the south—here’s a 5 day Iceland winter itinerary .
• Book your accommodation – Especially if you are travelling in the summer high season, you need to book far in advance. You can use sites like Vrbo  to find self-catering cabins and save on high restaurant costs. Search on Booking for hotels, guesthouses, and cottages.

• Buy travel insurance – It’s essential in case anything goes wrong. We recommend SafetyWing (a budget option available worldwide), True Traveller (for UK and EU residents), and Heymondo (available worldwide).
• Book the Blue Lagoon – Iceland’s most popular attraction can book up weeks in advance. It’s near the airport so most people visit after their flight arrives or before they depart. Book the Blue Lagoon with transfers here . We skipped it because it’s expensive, crowded, and we found some gorgeous, isolated hot springs in the Westfjords instead. Next time, I want to visit the new Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik, which should also be booked well in advance.

• Read The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland by Alda Sigmundsdottir – For tips by a local on travelling safely and responsibly and to understand the impact the tourism boom has had on the country. If you have time for more than one book, see my picks of the 10 best Iceland books to read before you visit including non-fiction and fiction. 
• Pack the essentials – In every season you’ll need warm layers (merino wool is great), waterproofs, waterproof hiking shoes or boots, swimsuit and travel towel (for hot springs), tripod (for northern lights photography), and sunglasses (the sun is often low). See our Iceland packing list for what we took.
• Bring a chip and pin debit or credit card – You’ll need it for self-service petrol pumps.
• Don’t worry about cash – Cards are accepted everywhere. We only needed a small amount of cash on our Iceland trip (about 3000 Icelandic krona worth $21) for unattended hot springs and toilets.
• Read safetravel.is – For tips on staying safe on your Iceland vacation. You can also give them your travel itinerary so they’ll be able to respond if you don’t reach your planned destination.
• Check if an EITAS is required – From 2025, the EU will be introducing an online travel authorisation system for travellers from countries that are currently visa-free (including US, UK, and Canada). You’ll need to apply before your trip and pay a small fee, but full details haven’t been announced yet (and it keeps getting postponed).
• Take the Icelandic pledge  
• Be flexible – The volatile weather can mean tours are cancelled or hikes or drives would be too dangerous.
• Check road.is  before setting out each day – For details of road conditions and closures.
• Take a walk through a lava field – They are incredible! Our favourites were on the Snaefellness Peninsula .

• Expect to see many waterfalls – They are everywhere! My favourite was Dynjandi in the Westfjords.

• Drink the tap water – It’s pure and delicious. Bring a lightweight, foldable water bottle like the Vapur with you.
• Look out for the northern lights from September to mid-April – We used the Aurora app and Vedur website to see our chances. We got lucky on a 30% chance day and saw them outside our Bjarkarholt cabin in the Westfjords. It’s best to stay in the countryside where there’s no light pollution. If you don’t have a car, you can take a northern lights tour from Reykjavik . 
• Use a tripod and long exposure  – To take photos of the northern lights. Most of mine were taken in manual mode at f2.8 with a 10 second shutter speed.

• Enjoy the midnight sun – If you visit Iceland in the summer when it’s light almost 24/7.
• Drive with your headlights on at all times .
• Be careful of sheep on the road – And always report it if you run one over (you won’t be fined).
• Fill up with petrol when you can – You might not come across a petrol pump for a while.

• Relax at geothermally heated swimming pools and hot pots – You’ll find them in even the smallest towns and it’s so lovely to swim in warm water when it’s cold outside.
• Shower naked thoroughly (without your swimsuit!) before entering a hot spring or pool – Public nudity isn’t a big deal in Iceland and you’ll draw far more attention to yourself if you don’t. They are very strict about this! There are separate male and female showers. You wear your swimsuit in the pool.
• Use the toilet whenever you find one (they are in short supply) – Be prepared to pay, usually around 200 ISK ($1.40). It’s worth keeping a small amount of cash for this. 
• Admire the cute wooden churches everywhere .

• Look out for seals – We saw them three times lazing on rocks by the sea.
• Ride an Icelandic horse and try its unique, smooth pace, the tölt.

• Create a playlist of Icelandic music – I will forever associate Of Monsters and Men with epic drives through the mountains. Iceland has a huge number of talented bands—check out Björk, Sigur Rós, Solstafir, Ásgeir, Múm and many more.
• Read books by Icelandic authors – It’s a very literary country. Nobel Prize-winning Halldór Laxness is the most famous author, and reading the classic Icelandic Sagas from the 13th and 14th centuries will give you a greater understanding of the country as famous sites from the stories are everywhere. See my 10 favourite books about Iceland including fun, quirky, and mysterious novels.
• Take a walk on a beach – It’s unlikely to be sunbathing weather, but Iceland’s dramatic black, golden, and red beaches are perfect for wild walks.

• Shop at Bonus supermarket – It’s the cheapest place to self-cater.
• Pack a picnic if you are road tripping – There often isn’t anywhere to stop for lunch, especially outside the summer when remote cafes close.
• Stock up on alcohol at Duty-Free on arrival at the airport if you want to drink – It’s much cheaper than in the state-run liquor stores (the only place you can buy booze).
• Enjoy delicious hot chocolate and cake (or a cinnamon bun) at one of Iceland’s excellent cosy cafes.
• Check Grapevine , a free English language newspaper – For what’s on in Reykjavik and enjoy its legendary nightlife and music scene on weekends.
• Call everyone by their first name – Titles aren’t used in Iceland. Instead of surnames, Icelanders use patronymics (or less commonly matronymics) made up of their father’s (or mother’s) name plus “son” (son) or “dóttir” (daughter). E.g. Björk Guðmundsdóttir is Gudmund’s daughter.
• Underestimate the weather – Icelandic weather changes fast and can be dangerous. Check the Vedur website or download their app for weather forecasts. Always be prepared with extra layers and waterproofs. 
• Drive in a storm – Strong winds can blow cars off the road or volcanic rocks into your windscreen in scary sandstorms.
• Stop on the road – I understand, you will feel the urge to take a photo every few minutes, but always pull over into a parking area, even if the road seems empty.

• Speed – Stick to the speed limit of 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural gravel roads, and 90 km/h on rural asphalt roads.
• Feel the need to tip – It’s not rude to do so, but it’s not expected or customary.
• Wild camp – This is now banned and you must park your campervan or put up your tent in a designated campsite.
• Risk your life for a photo – Respect any barriers that have been put up.
• Get too close to cliff edges or the surf – Tourists have fallen off cliffs and been killed by rogue waves (especially at Reynisfjara beach).

• Walk on the ice at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon – The ice is not stable and the water is dangerously cold.
• Go onto a glacier without an accredited guide – There are hidden crevasses that you could fall into.

• Drive on F roads without a 4WD vehicle
• Drive off-road in any vehicle – It damages the landscape and you’ll receive a high fine.
• Worry about staying connected – Even the remote cabins we stayed in had good WiFi and we had 3G or 4G signal almost everywhere. If you don’t have an affordable data plan for Iceland, buy an Airalo e-SIM and get online as soon as you arrive.
• Feed horses – Yes, they are cute, but it is bad for their health. It’s best to visit a horse farm like Sturlureykir , where can pay a small fee to interact with them (or go on a ride).
• Take rocks or pebbles as souvenirs
• Litter – Have some respect for this beautiful place.
• Ask Icelanders if they believe in elves (aka hidden people) – The majority do not, although they understand that many of their ancestors did and they are part of their heritage.
• Rush – Iceland’s a stunning country, take your time and enjoy it.

I hope this post has answered any concerns about how to plan a trip to Iceland. Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below or share your own Iceland travel tips.

• Iceland Itinerary: Off The Beaten Path on a Snæfellsnes and Westfjords Road Trip
• 14 Places Not to Miss on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• How Much Does an Iceland Trip Cost? Our Road Trip Budget
• 10 Best Books About Iceland to Read Before You Visit
• The Ultimate Iceland Packing List for Men and Women
• Visiting Iceland in September: What to Expect and Things to Do

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35 Comments

Hi, great blog. I’m thinking of taking my 3 teenagers to Iceland. I don’t want to be stuck in the hustle of a “tour group” experience. Is it possible to do it on my own with just day trips? How is late June? Will we be able to see glaciers and ice caves or are those only in the winter? Thanks!

Reply ↓

Yes, you could do it on your own with day trips if you hire a car and don’t mind a fair amount of driving.

In this case, you might also want to consider a night or two outside Reykjavik though–the Snafellsness peninsula is only a few hours away and is worth the extra time.

Late June is busy and expensive (book asap), but the weather is at its best (but still be prepared for cold) and you’ll have up to 21 hours of daylight.

Langjokull Ice Cave is on a glacier and can be visited year round as it’s man made. You have to visit on a tour from Husafell or Reykjavik.

Enjoy Iceland!

I loved your article. I would like to ask: is it possible to visit Iceland on day tours from Reykjavik? Or is it better to take a 6 days tour of the country? Is it possible to rent a bus from Reykjavik for a group of people?

You wouldn’t be able to see the whole island, but I wouldn’t recommend trying to do that in 6 days anyway. You can certainly see a lot by taking day tours from Reykjavik. Many people who don’t want to drive do this.

I’m not sure about renting a bus. But if you have a really big group maybe contact an Iceland tour company for advice. Organising a private tour might make more sense than joining a group tour.

Credit card use is very pervasive.

However at campsites where laundry and showers are coin-operated, how does one get the coins needed?

We haven’t stayed at campsites so I’m not sure, but we withdrew a small amount of cash from an ATM at the airport on arrival.

Very good article, we just returned from our two weeks in Iceland. and the only thing I would add it’s the wind, not the temperature that is hard to handle. Plus all the Icelandic people we delta with all spoke perfect English, a couple of times I had to ask them where they were from, only to be shocked that they were from Iceland. Enjoy your trip, we did, oh and make sure you get full car insurance!

It’s really helpful for my Christmas Iceland Trip! I hope I can experience a lot as you said!

Thank you very much, Erin, for this super informative blog. I’m planning to visit Iceland sometime in Feb/Mar 2023. Will visit the places of interests you shared. We come from Singapore – hot climate. Might be a struggle to keep ourselves warm in Iceland. :-(

Great information, You answered all my questions

Planning a trip to Iceland now and this has been a super helpful place to start! Thanks so much for a really awesome guide. Reading your 5-day Winter itinerary next as we’re going February 2022 so that could be perfect for us!

Thank you. Very informative, organized, and superb photography.

Thanks, Jay!

After spending 18 months sequestered and being fully vaccinated, I did an 8-day tour of Iceland and although it was challenging getting there from Western Canada, once I got there I loved it! I can verify all the recommended do’s & don’ts are true and worth your while following. The landscape is like no other in the world and it took my breath away despite not having the best weather. The people very friendly & welcoming, the food amazingly delicious, hotels & accommodations modern, simple & comfortable. Our tour and our guide was amazingly knowledgeable & experieced who kept us entertained with great facts, history, geology, birding knowledge & some tall tales. Loved it and would visit again!

Thanks for the trip report, Aida! It sounds like an amazing trip! You’re making me really want to go back.

Are the travel restrictions for Vaccinated people lifted for Iceland? FYI: I’m an american

Yes, you can travel to Iceland now.

I can’t wait to move to Iceland

Hi, I’m an American, do you think the travel restrictions will be lifted by the summer?

Thank you, Jessica

No one really knows but it will depend if the US can get the virus under control by then. It looks like from 1 May, Iceland hopes to open up a little more but that will be based on each country’s situation. Edit: All restrictions have been lifted: https://www.government.is/government/covid-19/covid-19-news/2022/02/23/COVID-19-Lifting-of-all-domestic-restrictions-and-restrictions-at-the-border/

Personally I wouldn’t book anything unless you have free cancellation.

Hi Erin. Thanks for this guide. My wife and I are planning a trip there in September or October. We are US Citizens, so we hope it can happen. We have travel certificates which expire at the end of the year, so we are sort of up against a wall. We have to check to see what the cancellation policy is. Fingers crossed that it can happen.

Good luck with it! It’s so hard to say what will happen with travel this year.

Thank you very much for this guide! I’ve been looking at pre-paid packages and trying to decide whether to do one of those or create my own. Do you have any advice for a solo female traveler? It’s my first solo trip and I am excited but nervous.

I don’t have any experience of solo travel in Iceland but it’s a very safe country and we know plenty of women who loved it. Probably the easiest way would be to stay in Reykjavik and take day tours. If you are a confident drive you could also rent a car and head off by yourself. It’s pretty easy to arrange your own trip. Enjoy!

we are planning a trip this summer. thanks for all the information!

Enjoy, Elana!

The pics are literally breathtaking. Can’t wait to see it all with my own eyes next summer. Thank you for the tips, really valuable for me planning my first encounter with this beauty.

It is one of the most stunning places we’ve ever visited. Have an amazing trip!

This is a great resource! Thanks so much for taking the time to put it together. I particularly appreciate the tips regarding the need for a credit/debit card with a chip and pin for buying gas/petrol, the custom for gratuities, the Icelandic music playlist (perfect for the road trip!) and reading suggestions, and where to buy alcohol and groceries. And my favorite tip is to enjoy the hot chocolate and cake…don’t need to tell me twice!

I’m so glad you found it useful Heather!

Good list! I have two comments:

– Love the thing about tipping! During my trip, I actually asked one waitress what would be an appropriate tip and she said: “We have normal wages here, we don’t need tips”. ??

– I tried to read Independent People by Laxness while in Iceland but I had to give up. There’s only so much interest I can muster about the sheep… ?

Ha! I haven’t read Independent People yet as I heard The Fish Can Sing is a more accessible, lighthearted introduction to Laxness and I did enjoy it.

Erin what a rocking list. All noted. Iceland reminds me somewhat of New Zealand. Insane beauty, kinda expensive and yep, gotta have you head on a swivel sometimes. Especially driving.

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About Iceland

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Choose from the best Iceland vacation packages - here you will find Iceland honeymoon packages, the famous Blue Lagoon Iceland packages, or Iceland hiking tour packages.

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TOP Iceland Vacation Packages 2024

6 Days Around Iceland Adventure

3 Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour

2-Day Tour to Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Borgarfjörður Fjord

2 Day South Coast, Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour

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8 Day Iceland Ring Road Tour

Frequently asked questions, what is the best month to visit iceland.

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to do. If you want to see the Northern Lights, January through March are the best months. If you're looking to explore the country's beautiful nature, May through September are the best months.

How Many Days Do I Need in Iceland?

The average length for a trip to Iceland is 8 days.

Can US Citizens Go to Iceland?

Yes, US citizens can travel to Iceland without a visa. As long as you have a valid passport, you're good to go!

Is it Safe in Iceland?

Of course, Iceland is safe. It's a big country, and most areas are quite tourist-oriented. In fact, the crime rate in Iceland is low - people from abroad can feel at ease knowing they have less to be worried about when it comes to being victimized by crime than in their own home country!

What is the Group Size on Package Vacation?

It depends on a vacation package, but the group size is usually up to 19 people. We try to keep groups small for safety and comfort reasons.

Can I Add Extra Days or an Extra Person to the Package?

Yes, you can usually add extra days or an extra person to your booking. Please make sure to check in with customer support for availability.

Can I Change the Dates of my Package after I have Made the Booking?

If you want to change the dates of the package, the cancellation policy applies. Give more than 24 hours notice for day tours, more than 14 days notice for multi-day tours, and more than 72 hours notice for private & customized tours to get a full refund.

How Much Does an Iceland Vacation Package Cost?

The cost will depend on a tour included in a package. The prices for our tours vary from approximately 30 USD to 2000 USD.

If I'm Not Able to Travel, Can I Cancel my Iceland Vacation Package?

Yes, you can cancel your booking, but some cancellation charges might be applied, depending on the day we receive written notification of your cancellation. Check our cancellation policy to see if fees could be applied.

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To get the Best Price Guarantee, we recommend booking a tour through our direct channels (such as the Arctic Adventures website). We also suggest promotional codes and special campaigns for our newsletter subscribers. Subscribe to our newsletter now to get the best deals.

What Does an Iceland Travel Package Include?

Depending on a tour, it can include pick-up & drop-off services, safety equipment, guide services, tour gear, access to attractions. Check the tour page carefully before booking to ensure which services are or are not included.

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Planning a Trip to Iceland

6 minute read

By Adina Lazar

29 April 2024

Known as the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland is famed for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, striking black sand beaches, and impressive glaciers. For such a small country, you'll have an incredible amount to see and do, plus a ton to organize when planning a trip.

With that in mind, we’ve made a list of the most important things to consider to help you start planning a trip to Iceland.

• Kick off your Iceland adventure with these vacation packages .

1. Decide how long to stay

The length of your trip is a key detail to decide first. How long you’ll spend in Iceland depends on how much time you can spare and what your travel goals are.

Shorter trips

Generally speaking, the longer the trip, the more you’ll be able to see. But if you only have a few days, it’s entirely possible to take in plenty of stunning landscapes and one-of-a-kind experiences.

For trips shorter than 4 days, the best option is to stay in Reykjavík . Using the capital as your home base will give you the chance to take day tours to famous nearby sights.

For example, you could travel the popular Golden Circle route. You'll see the Gullfoss waterfall , Geysir geothermal area , and Þingvellir National Park – 3 of Iceland’s top attractions – in just one day.

As well as traveling around Reykjavík, you shouldn’t skip exploring Iceland’s buzzing capital city. With exciting culture, restaurants, and nightlife, you’ll have plenty of fun things to see and do. 

Walk through colorful neighborhoods with street art displays, eat at trendy food halls , and immerse yourself in cultural attractions like the Harpa Concert Hall .

You can also climb to the top of Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavík's iconic church, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city.

• For more inspiration, check out these multi-day tours from Reykjavík .
• Related: How long do you need in Iceland?

Longer trips  

Got a week or longer? Venture out and explore even more of the country. 

Head to the south coast to marvel at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon , one of the region’s most popular destinations. If you’re up for it, take a boat tour to see the floating icebergs up close. On your way to the lagoon, you can stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall , where you’ll get the chance to walk behind the thundering waters.

And don’t forget about Reynisfjara black sand beach near the charming village of Vík . It’s a great spot to take in the view and admire the dramatic cliffs and basalt sea stacks rising from the ocean.

• Go on a tour of South Iceland to see these wonders and a whole lot m ore.
• Related: Best things to see & do on Iceland’s south coast .

If whale watching is on your bucket list, travel north and you’ll find the coastal town of Húsavík , Iceland’s whale-watching capital.

While you’re here, don’t miss a visit to Akureyri , the unofficial capital of North Iceland . It’s an unmatched spot to sample local food, drink Icelandic craft beer, and try adrenaline-packed activities like snowmobiling.

Along the way you can stop and marvel at Goðafoss waterfall , known as the ‘Waterfall of the Gods’. Or explore Lake Mývatn , a volcanic lake surrounded by stunning natural landscapes such as geothermal areas, pseudo-craters, and lava formations.

But if you want to see it all and then some, following the Ring Road route is just the option. This road is Iceland's main highway that encircles the entire island. It’s roughly 1,332 km (828 mi) long and offers you the opportunity to explore some of Iceland's most spectacular landscapes, major towns, and natural wonders. 

We recommend taking at least a week to fully complete this epic journey and soak up all the main sights. 

• Circle Iceland’s spectacular coast on a Ring Road tour .
• Related: Driving Iceland’s Ring Road: Ultimate guide .

2. Choose when to visit

With so many cool things to experience, there’s no bad time to visit Iceland. But maybe you’ll find that visiting in a particular season works best for you.

Visiting Iceland in summer

In summer, you’ll discover the phenomenon known as the midnight sun . This happens when the sun doesn't fully set, giving you long hours of daylight. It provides plenty of time for exploration and outdoor activities, even late into the evening.

You’ll be treated to lush landscapes, warmer weather, and access to the highlands – a region inaccessible in winter due to snow and ice. Plus, summer is festival season, with various cultural events, concerts, and outdoor celebrations happening across the country.

But this season is also the most popular time to visit. To make the most of your trip, we recommend planning ahead and booking everything in advance. This even includes making reservations at top restaurants in Reykjavík .

• Enjoy longer days to explore the island on an Iceland summer vacation .
• Related: Iceland in summer: Must-sees & must-dos .

 Visiting Iceland in winter

Winter is the time to witness a truly spectacular display of the Northern Lights , thanks to the long nights and dark skies.

You could also be treated to magical winter scenery with snow-covered mountains, frozen waterfalls, and icy landscapes. Relaxing in Iceland's hot springs and geothermal pools with these backdrops is especially beautiful during the winter months. Plus, it may not be as cold as you think, with average temperatures hovering around -2°C (28°F).

But keep in mind that winter has shorter days, so you’ll need to plan carefully to make the most of each day. And to be prepared for the chillier conditions, you’ll definitely need to pack layers!

Winter weather can also be unpredictable with storms, strong winds, and snowfall, so flexibility is key during this season.

• Plan a trip to Iceland with these winter vacation packages .
• Related: Iceland in summer vs winter .

Visiting Iceland in spring or fall 

Spring and fall are the shoulder seasons in Iceland. During these periods, there are usually fewer visitors around, so you’ll have more of the attractions to yourself. Plus, the weather is generally milder.

If you visit Iceland in spring , you’ll get longer daylight hours than in winter, meaning more time for sightseeing. And with longer nights in October and November , late fall is one of the best times to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

Both seasons are also prime times for wildlife viewing, with the chance to spot whales, Arctic foxes, and reindeer. But they can bring a mix of sun, rain showers, and occasional storms. Packing smart with wind and waterproof clothing will help keep you dry and comfortable.

• Make the most of your days in Iceland with these guided group tours .
• Related: Iceland in the fall – Your guide .

3. Prepare your sightseeing bucket list

When you start planning your Iceland trip, you’ll find there are so many things to see and do! Interested in marveling at top attractions like the Golden Circle? Looking to get off the beaten path and explore the remote Westfjords ?

Make yourself a list and plan your Iceland itinerary in advance. For some attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon , it’s best to book ahead. Spots can fill up fast, especially in summer.

We also suggest having a few backup plans in case the weather takes a turn. For example, Reykjavík’s museums , shops, and cozy cafés can be nice options to save for a rainy (or snowstorm-y) day.

• See 3 of Iceland’s most famous natural gems on a Golden Circle tour .
• Related: Best places to visit in Iceland .

While you’re planning, don’t forget to consider your budget. Iceland has a reputation for being an expensive place to visit. Check out this helpful budgeting guide to get an idea of how much you can expect to spend when you travel in Iceland, and some easy ways to save.

4. Make a packing list 

What you pack depends on the time of year that you’re visiting and the type of activities you have planned. However, as a general rule, it’s a good idea to have these 5 things at the top of your packing list:

• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Thermal layers
• Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes
• Hat, scarf and gloves (in winter)

Of course in summer you can swap those cold winter accessories for a cap, SPF and sunglasses. But don’t forget to keep an eye on the weather forecast. It can help you make any last-minute changes before you zip up your suitcase and head to the airport.

• Get more tips on what to pack for winter in Iceland with this packing guide .

5. Pick your travel style 

Now that you know how to plan a trip to Iceland, it’s time to choose how you want to get around the island. The main question is, to drive or not to drive?

If you like having the freedom to explore the Land of Fire and Ice at your own pace and stop off wherever you like, a self-drive tour is for you.

Prefer to have someone else drive? Check out these guided group tours where you can travel around the country with like-minded travelers. Or, if you’re after a more intimate discovery of what Iceland has to offer, try a private guided tour .

With both options you’ll be led by a local guide with expert knowledge of the country.

Or maybe you want to base yourself in Reykjavík or Akureyri. In that case, multi-day bus tours let you stay in Iceland's main hubs and explore nearby attractions on day trips. You’ll be able to customize your tour by adding extra activities to pack even more into your vacation.

Still not sure what travel style suits you? Find answers to all your questions about how to get around Iceland in this detailed guide.

Plan your trip to the Land of Fire and Ice with Iceland Tours

Iceland is one of the most exciting destinations you can visit, and planning your trip should be too. 

Once you’re ready to book, our Reykjavík-based team at Iceland Tours can make Iceland trip planning a breeze. We’ll arrange your accommodation, local transport, and a detailed itinerary. So all you need to do is get excited about your adventure! 

All it takes to secure your booking is a 5% deposit. So get stuck into these Iceland vacation packages and find your next adventure.

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About the author

Adina’s love for travel has led her to different corners of the world over the years. But Iceland’s unique beauty has a special place in her heart, so she’s decided to share it with the world! Next time she’s there, she plans to take a dip in the hot springs, spot some puffins, and collect a few Icelandic wool sweaters (lopapeysa) along the way. When she’s not writing, she loves being out in nature or cozying up with a good book.

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• Packing Lists

The Ultimate Packing List for Iceland, According to Tour Guides

Here’s our list of the best gear, accessories, and clothing for an trip to the land of fire and ice.

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• Packing Checklist

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Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

There’s no other country in the world quite like Iceland. From chasing waterfalls during the day to hunting for the northern lights at night, there’s so much the island has to offer visitors. It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise, which means you need to be prepared for everything Arctic Mother Nature throws at you.

I road-tripped around Iceland in the fall and, although I thought I was prepared for the weather, I should have been a bit more thorough in my packing list. To help you avoid my costly mistakes, we chatted with the co-owner of tour company Hidden Iceland, Ryan Connolly, and general manager of Intrepid DMC Europe, Kristijan Svajnzger, to get recommendations for must-have packing items. Keep reading to find our comprehensive guide to packing for a trip to Iceland , as well as tips and tricks for getting the most out of your visit to the island. 

Packing Checklist for a Trip to Iceland

Below, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about packing for your next trip to the land of fire and ice . From clothing and shoes to accessories and luggage, use our complete packing list so you arrive prepared to enjoy everything Iceland has to offer. 

• Best Waterproof Jacket: Outdoor Research Gore-tex Women's Aspire and Men's Foray Super Stretch Jacket
• Best Fleece for Women: Patagonia Women's Lightweight Fleece Pullover
• Best Fleece for Men: The North Face Denali Zip Jacket
• Best Rain Pants: Marmot Women's and Men’s Precip Eco Pants
• Best Thermal Underwear: Pisiqi Women's and Men's Thermal Underwear Set
• Best Fleece-lined Leggings: Lululemon Fast and Free High-rise Fleece Tight
• Best Packable Jacket: Eddie Bauer Women's and Men's CirrusLite Down Jacket
• Best Parka for Women: Eddie Bauer Women's Altamira Down Parka
• Best Parka for Men: Eddie Bauer Men's Seabeck Down Parka
• Best Swimsuit for Women: Andi The Amalfi
• Best Swimsuit for Men: Vuori Banks Short
• Best Socks: Smartwool Women’s and Men’s Classic Hike Full Cushion Crew Socks
• Best Sweater: Quince Women’s and Men’s Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
• Best T-shirt: Smartwool Women’s and Men’s Classic All-season Merino T-Shirt
• Best Hiking Boots: Salomon Women's and Men's X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-tex Hiking Boots
• Best Flip-flops: Teva Women's and Men's Mush II Flip-flops
• Best Waterproof Boots: Blundstone Thermal Chelsea Boot
• Best Waterproof Shoes:  Merrell  Women's  and  Men’s  MOAB 2 Hiking Shoe

Accessories

• Best Quick-dry Towel: Rainleaf Microfiber Towel
• Best Hiking Poles: Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles
• Best Gloves: The North Face Apex+ Insulated Etip Glove
• Best Beanie: Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie
• Best Sleep Mask: Luna Weighted Sleep Mask
• Best Outlet Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Best Water Bottle: Platypus SoftBottle
• Best Neck Gaiter: Turtle Fur The Turtle's Neck Warmer
• Best Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Polarized Square Sunglasses
• Best Sunscreen: Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
• Best Portable Wifi Hotspot: GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot

Luggage and Bags

• Best Carry-on: Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner
• Best Checked: July Checked Bag
• Best Daypack: Gregory Swift 22 H20 Backpack

When packing clothes for Iceland, it’s imperative that you take common weather conditions into consideration. While there are lots of indoor activities, the majority of landmarks are outside so arriving equipped for rain, shine, or snow is the best way to stay safe and warm while visiting. “Because of that gulf stream and winter, you get cold days and then there will be other days where, believe it or not, you could be in a T-shirt,” Connolly says.

To start, focus on clothing that will keep you warm and dry like thermal underwear and fleece layers, and then move on to packing outerwear like waterproof pants, jackets, shoes, and gloves. “First, have lots of layers and most of them should be waterproof — no question about that,” Svajnzger stresses.

Best Waterproof Jacket

Outdoor research aspire super stretch jacket.

• Water Resistance 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Breathability 5 /5

Both of our Iceland experts are in agreement that a waterproof jacket is essential for visiting the country. The women's Outdoor Research Aspire jacket is waterproof and windproof, which is ideal for weather in Iceland that can often be both damp and blustery; it also comes in a similar men's option that offers the same stretchy and waterproof Gore-tex material. “When it's windy, it's windy, like there are limitations on vehicles which can drive,” Svajnzger says. “For example, tourist buses and stuff like that, if it's very windy, are not allowed to drive because they can get toppled over.”

Best Fleece for Women

Patagonia women's lightweight fleece pullover.

• Performance 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Connolly explained that while the weather temperature in Iceland varies by season , you’ll always want to pack layers like this fleece from Patagonia, which earned top scores during testing. “Except for the number of layers that you're wearing, and maybe the thickness of some of them, winter is not that different from summer or autumn and spring,” he says. It’s important to visit prepared for warmer and colder days so bringing a lightweight fleece layer is ideal for staying warm.

Best Fleece for Men

The north face denali zip jacket.

The North Face

In our men's fleece jacket testing , this one from The North Face also scored highly. This zippered jacket proved to be warm on chilly days and it can layer underneath jackets easily without sacrificing comfort and range of motion, making it an excellent layer for hiking in Iceland.

Best Rain Pants

Marmot precip eco pant.

Backcountry

Trust me, you will be miserable without a pair of waterproof or water-resistant pants in Iceland. I didn’t wear mine on a hike thinking it wouldn’t rain and guess what? It rained and I was miserable. These Marmot men’s and women’s rain pants are made out of 100 percent recycled nylon and will certainly keep your legs dry and warm in return.

Best Thermal Underwear

Pisiqi thermal underwear women ultra-soft long johns set.

• Warmth 4.5 /5
• Moisture-Wicking 4 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

A basic set of thermal underwear is exactly what you need to wear under your outerwear to stay warm and dry while you’re enjoying your Icelandic adventure. Connolly recommends wearing a pair of long underwear made of a synthetic material that has moisture-wicking abilities like this men's set of polyester thermal underwear from Amazon (which also comes in women's sizing ). “Anything made of cotton on the bottom layer is not good for wicking away sweat. So that kind of bottom layer staying warm and close to your skin keeps the insulation really well,” he shares.

Best Fleece-lined Leggings

Lululemon fast and free fleece tight.

• Quality 5 /5
• Opacity 5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

I wore these fleece-lined leggings every day I was in Iceland and I was pleased that the water-resistant fabric prevented my legs from getting wet during a hike where it began to drizzle at the end. They’re also extra warm under a pair of waterproof pants on extra-chilly days as needed.

Best Packable Jacket

Eddie bauer men's cirruslite down jacket.

• Ease of Use 5 /5

Depending on the temperature outside, you may or may not need all the layers you bring but the most important thing is having them on hand just in case. These Eddie Bauer packable men's and women's puffer jackets are the perfect layer to toss in your day pack or rental car when you leave your hotel for the day. They’re compact and will add an extra layer of insulation and warmth for a day of exploring the island.

Best Parka for Women

Eddie bauer altamira down parka.

• Warmth 5 /5

Whether you’re visiting the Saga Museum or searching for the aurora borealis, a parka is one of the best outer layer pieces to bring to Iceland. Eddie Bauer's Altamira parka for women is made with water-resistant nylon designed to keep you warm in as low as 35 degrees Fahrenheit. We tested the jacket and loved how lightweight, protective, and warm the jacket is, especially against chilly gusts of winds.

Best Parka for Men

Eddie bauer seabeck down parka.

Eddie Bauer

• Comfort 4.5 /5

Our favorite parka for men we tried , this Eddie Bauer jacket brings the heat to freezing temperatures. The jacket is super warm and cozy but we didn't feel like it was bulky to wear or pack while testing it. Plus, the 650 down fill offers plenty of insulation and warmth to withstand 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Swimsuit for Women

Andie the amalfi.

• Coverage 5 /5

Although it feels weird to pack a swimsuit for the Arctic, you won’t want to forget an option like this one-piece from Andi. Iceland is home to dozens of natural hot springs , including the Blue Lagoon, which is one of National Geographic’s 25 wonders of the world. “When you come to Iceland, one of the main things you’ll want to do is the Blue Lagoon and then you have another one called the Sky Lagoon, which is a newer one that's also an amazing experience,” Svajnzger says.

Best Swimsuit for Men

Vuori banks short.

Don't forget to toss in a pair of swim trunks into your carry-on before embarking on your trip to Iceland. These swim trunks from Vuori are our favorite pair we tried thanks to the high-quality materials that dry quickly — a huge perk while traveling throughout the island.

Smartwool Hike Crew Socks

Bringing a pair of thick, wool socks are the best way to prevent your toes from getting cold, and these Smartwool hiking socks ( for men and for women ) are a solid option for hiking or sightseeing. We love that Smartwool uses recycled nylon material and wool that is ZQ-certified , meaning the wool is sourced ethically and sustainably from the farm to the final production of each pair.

Best Sweater

Quince mongolian cashmere crewneck sweater.

After a day of sightseeing, you may want to unwind with a nice meal at one of the many delicious restaurants scattered between the island’s cities. A cashmere sweater (like these from Quince in men's and women's sizes ) is the perfect cozy layer that looks dressier than a fleece jacket, but will still keep you warm.

Best T-shirt

Smartwool classic all-season merino t-shirt.

While outer layers are certainly important to stay warm, you can’t forget about a basic tee to wear under your outerwear. The Smartwool All-season Merino T-shirts ( for men and for women ) are the perfect base layer for regulating temperature on cold days and for wicking away moisture from hiking or other high-intensity activities where you might sweat a lot.

Our experts both emphasized the importance of having waterproof shoes in Iceland year-round. Whether you’re hiking on a glacier, walking behind a waterfall, or strolling through the city center, dry feet will make your experience much more enjoyable. However, if you stumble upon one of Iceland’s off-the-beaten-path thermal pools , having a pair of flip-flops to slide on will be more comfortable than putting your wet feet back into socks and boots.

Best Hiking Boots

Salomon x ultra 4 mid gore-tex women's.

• Cushioning 5 /5
• Traction 5 /5

Because the majority of activities in Iceland are outdoor, Svajnzger says it’s crucial to have a pair of sturdy shoes like hiking boots. “Almost nothing is indoor and you need proper footwear. There is a lot of loose rock, gravel, volcanic rocks, [and] sharp edges so footwear is essential,” Svajnzger says. These lace-up Salomon hiking boots ( for men and for women ) have a completely waterproof upper lined with Gore-tex for superior waterproofness. We tested these boots and they proved to be exceptionally lightweight and comfortable right out of the box.

Best Flip-flops

Teva mush ii flip flops.

• Comfort 4.8 /5
• Support 5 /5

A pair of flip-flops is also essential if you plan to visit one of Iceland’s many thermal pools. Connolly says that “these will all be very handy when you find a random hot pool in the middle of nowhere. And there's no good changing rooms so if you find one that's just outdoors, then a nice pair of flip-flops will probably keep your feet from soaking wet and freezing immediately.” These T+L-tested and loved flip-flops ( men's sizing available, too) are lightweight, easy to pack, and offer superior cushioning.

Best Waterproof Boots

Blundstone thermal chelsea boot.

• Waterproofing 5 /5

Whether you’re walking through Rekjavik’s city center or driving Ring Road , a pair of versatile Blundstone boots are a must-pack. My boyfriend and I wore our waterproof Blundstones for sightseeing, light hiking, and going out to a nice dinner in Reykjavik. We also tested them in our waterproof boots test and they scored highly for warmth, comfort, and durability.

Best Walking Shoes

Merrell moab 2 waterproof hiking shoes.

The Merrell Moab 2 Hiking Shoes ( for men or for women ) are ideal walking shoes for Iceland with their waterproof uppers and sturdy Vibram rubber sole. If you don’t want to wear a bulky hiking shoe, these sneaker-like walking shoes provide the same waterproofness as a hiking boot but don’t take up as much space in a suitcase.

No matter what time of year you’re visiting, it’s important to be equipped with all the small accessories that make a big difference during your stay. For example, Iceland can have up to 24 hours of sunlight in the summer and, while your accommodations might have black-out curtains, consider bringing an eye mask to ensure the bright rays won’t disrupt your sleep. Iceland also uses a type “C” adapter for plugging in electronics so you’ll want to pack a few outlet adapters as well.

Best Quick-dry Towel

Rainleaf microfiber towel.

• Quality 3 /5
• Absorbency 4.5 /5
• Texture 4 /5

Iceland has plenty of thermal pools to enjoy and, while some of the more popular ones like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon include towels, ones off the beaten track won’t have towels on hand. Your best bet is to keep a quick-drying pick like this tested-and-approved Rainleaf towel in your backpack at all times just in case you want to take a dip.

Best Hiking Poles

Cascade mountain carbon fiber trekking poles.

If you’re planning on hiking with a group tour, you’ll likely get certain gear like hiking poles or crampons through the tour company. For self-guided hikers, consider bringing a pair of portable and easy-to-pack hiking poles like these Cascade Mountain Tech ones. They break down to a length that easily fits in a checked bag (as they’re banned from carry-ons ), and they’re made with lightweight carbon fiber and cork for little added weight.

Best Gloves

The north face apex+ insulated etip glove.

I didn’t bring a pair of gloves to Iceland and, while it wasn’t too cold in October, I would still recommend bringing a pair. My hands got really cold during a windy volcano hike when it started raining and that’s when I wished I had a pair of gloves like The North Face Apex+ gloves ( for women or for men ) in my day pack. They’re water- and wind-resistant, making them the perfect shield for when the Icelandic weather takes a turn.

Best Beanie

Carhartt knitted cuff beanie.

• Durability 4.7 /5

Keep your noggin protected from the cold with a cozy beanie like this knit one from Carhartt. Even if it looks nice and sunny out, the weather in Iceland can change quickly so having a hat with you just in case can be a game-changer for staying warm.

Best Eye Mask

Luna hot/cool minky fleece weighted eye mask.

Visiting Iceland in the summertime? Consider bringing an eye mask to avoid the bright sun from trickling in and disrupting your sleep. “Especially [with] 24-hour sunlight in summer…having a sleeping mask helps with the light coming through the windows. Even with the blackout curtains, they don't really block the sun out,” Connolly explains. This weighted eye mask helps for catching Z's if you're jet-lagged and it eliminates bright city lights at home and on red-eye flights.

Best Outlet Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

• Effectiveness 4 /5

Whenever you travel to another country, it’s important to double-check which kind of outlet you’ll find in your hotel room. Iceland, like most European countries, uses the standard Euro-plug or C-shaped adapter that’s different from the A-shaped outlet used in the U.S. This T+L-approved adapter has outlet prongs for over 150 countries including those in Iceland, Australia, and Japan, and it can charge up to six devices at a time.

Best Water Bottle

Platypus softbottle.

Both of our experts stressed the importance of reducing your consumption of single-use products while visiting Iceland by using a reusable water bottle. “Bring a water bottle and don't buy plastic water [bottles]...because you can drink the water and it will taste the same. It has a slightly sulfuric taste but it's probably one of the cleanest waters you can [get],” Svajnzger shares. The Platypus SoftBottle is one of the our favorite water bottle brands and it’s lightweight enough to carry around with you during all of your Icelandic adventures.

Best Neck Gaiter

Turtle fur fleece neck warmer.

Courtesy of Amazon

Because of the strong winds that can occur throughout the country, Connolly recommends that visitors stray away from bringing scarves or umbrellas that can easily be taken by the gusts. Instead, he prefers a buff or a neck gaiter that stays secure around your neck like the Turtle Fur fleece neck warmer.

Best Sunglasses

Ray-ban original wayfarer classic.

No matter the season, you’ll be thankful to have a pair of UV protection sunglasses with you. “Sunglasses are something that you would absolutely need in summer,” Connolly says, “but weirdly, in April, October, and even in the middle of winter, the sun is always so low in the sky. If it's shining directly on you, you're going to be driving directly toward the sun for hours.” You can’t go wrong with a pair of classic Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses with UV-protective coating and a sharp crystal lens.

Best Sunscreen

Babo botanicals sheer mineral sunscreen lotion spf 50.

• Transfer 5 /5

Even in rain or shine, the rays in Iceland are still strong enough to cause sun damage to your skin. It’s easy to forget sunscreen when you’re enjoying all the nature Iceland has to offer but it’s imperative to “sunscreen up. Always,” Connolly advises. This daily sunscreen from Babo Botanicals is our favorite travel-size sunscreen since it doesn't leave a white cast and comes in a compact 3-ounce bottle so it’s TSA-approved and easy to travel with.

Best Portable Wifi Hotspot

Glocalme 4g lte mobile hotspot.

I rented a car in Iceland and did a lot of self-drive tours to hike and sightsee, and having a portable Wi-Fi device was a life saver. While a physical map is helpful to have in the car, too, I found that it was ideal to have access to the internet to research destinations and restaurants along the way. Keep in mind that you’ll have to add a data plan to this mobile hotspot, but it isn’t carrier-specific so it’s a breeze to do so.

While it ultimately depends on how long you’re planning to stay in Iceland, we recommend two T+L tested and approved suitcases to make packing a breeze. For long-weekend trips to Iceland, carry-on luggage will likely hold everything you need but, if you’re planning on visiting the island for over a week, opt for a harside checked suitcase to have extra room. Don’t forget to check your airline’s bag restrictions and fees to make your travels smoother when you arrive at the airport.

Best Carry-on

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5

While I’m generally not a light packer, I was able to fit everything I needed for a four-day trip to Iceland in a carry-on suitcase. The best carry-on bag we've ever tried , we love that this suitcase has expandable zippers to add more room in the main compartment as needed.

Best Checked

July checked bag.

• Maneuverability 4 /5
• Durability 3.5 /5

If you’re planning to spend a week or longer in Iceland, a checked bag might be the only way to fit all of your warm layers and accessories. This July suitcase is one of our favorite checked bag we’ve tested thanks to its spacious interior and sturdy polycarbonate exterior. The best part is that it only weighs 8.3 pounds, leaving plenty of weight left over to pack it full of cold-weather essentials.

Best Daypack

Gregory swift 22 h20 hydration pack.

For storing extra layers, snacks, or water, a daypack like this Gregory one is essential. And, yes, you guessed it: The bag is completely waterproof and comes with a hydration reservoir for drinking water on the go. It also features a waterproof lining and top-rolling opening to help you avoid a soggy mess on your hands after a day of hiking or sightseeing.

While you can bring clothing that isn't water-resistant, you might want to reconsider it. Clothing like jeans or items made of cotton won't do the best job of keeping you warm and dry, which can put a real damper on the trip. Hiking leggings made of breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, for example, are a better option.

The weather in Iceland is a bit all over the place, making it particularly difficult to pack. “You can actually experience all four seasons in one day… you're gonna get a snowstorm on the same day; you're gonna see the aurora borealis. So, that's why it's important to be properly clothed when you go there,” Svajnzger stresses. Because Iceland is located at the edge of the Arctic Circle, you can expect temperatures of 30 to 33 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, with humidity and wind chill thrown into the mix as well. “Iceland is never as cold as people think. And it's probably never as hot as people think as well,” Connolly explains.

When you’re buying clothing for a trip to Iceland, you’ll want to look for gear that is advertised as waterproof, not just water-resistant. Waterproof means that the clothing is designed to repel water no matter how much rain or water is getting on the outerwear. Water-resistant means that the fabric can ward off a certain amount of water but eventually it will seep through.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp tests and writes about the best travel products to make your travels easier. Anna visited Iceland in October 2022 and used her own experience packing and traveling in Iceland to write the article. She also consulted two tour guides who are experts in all things Iceland to give tips and tricks on how to best pack for your next trip to the island. The experts she consulted included:

• Ryan Connolly , co-owner of tour company Hidden Iceland
• Kristijan Svajnzger , general manager of Intrepid DMC

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Iceland Vacation Packages

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Iceland Vacation

Iceland's windswept fjords, lava fields and black-sand beaches offer endless photo opportunities, while its capital Reykjavik will keep you entertained with hip bars, eateries and nightlife.

Iceland Hotel + Flights

There are 2,254 hotels to choose from with Expedia starting at CA $165 a night. The even better news? If you bundle your flights and hotel with us, you stand to save some serious cash. While you’re at it, you might like to add a rental car and some exciting experiences to your Iceland Vacation Package. Not afraid of the cold? Add a tour of Langjokull Glacier and Ice Cave to your package.

Your Iceland Vacation Itinerary

Day 1: Pick up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport. It’s less than an hour’s drive to Reykjavik from here, but you’ll want to allow an extra few hours for a soak at the iconic Blue Lagoon on the way.

Day 2: From Reykjavik, head out on a day trip around the Golden Circle. This famous route takes you past some of Iceland’s most mesmerizing sights — Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Spring Area and Gullfoss Falls.

Day 3: Explore the coastal town of Vik. With its uninterrupted skies, this is a great spot to view the northern lights. The beautiful basalt beach, Reynisfjara, and the nearby puffin cliffs are also must-sees.

Iceland Information

Held each February, the Winter Lights Festival will brighten your nights if you decide to visit at this time of year.

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in iceland, reykjavik harbour.

Once a maritime and fishing precinct, the Old Harbour now buzzes with restaurants, cafés and tour boat operators.

Blue Lagoon

Soak away your aches, get a massage treatment and swim in the milky blue waters of this mineral-rich geothermal pool sculpted by lava in Grindavik.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Explore the great outdoors at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a popular spot to commune with nature in Hofn. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's glaciers.

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Find cheap flights to Iceland from $126

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to iceland departing on 7/15. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to iceland.

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Best Iceland Flight Deals

Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know

Faqs - booking iceland flights, what nearby cities are reachable from keflavik international airport (kef) once i arrive in iceland.

It is straightforward to get to other nearby cities served by KEF Airport via a cab, a rental car, or bus services. Njardvik, Hafnir, and Sandgerdi are three additional nearby cities that you might probably visit while in Iceland in addition to Keflavik.

What child safety regulations must I be aware of before I rent a car in Iceland?

Iceland mandates that a child travels in a child seat with a five-point harness until they are large enough to ride in a booster. Additionally, the child seat must be facing backward until the child is at least one year old; rear-facing seats are advised until the child is three.

Are there any airport lounges on flight routes between Iceland and the United States?

Yes. If they wish to use airport lounges before boarding their preferred carriers, travelers going to Iceland from the US need to consider flying out of Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). The Delta Sky Club is an airport's economy lounge located in Terminal 1 of this airport. This lounge is easily accessible to travelers on a tight budget who are flying from the US to Iceland.

How can I board the first plane departing Stewart International Airport (SWF) on the SWF-KEF route?

Consider making a hotel reservation at a location closest to the airport if you plan to take the first flight from SWF to Iceland. A nearby hotel worth considering is Homewood Suites by Hilton Newburgh-Stewart Airport, which is located 2 minutes from the main terminal.

How do I get to Reykjavik City from Keflavik Airport?

Arriving passengers on flights from the US to Iceland can take the Straeto Routs 55 bus, which provides daily service to the Reykjavik City, or ride Flybus shuttle to Reykjavik Bus Terminal (BSI). Otherwise, you can rent a car or take a taxi downtown.

How can I visit the Blue Lagoon?

The heated water of the Blue Lagoon is world famous for its restorative and healing properties and is one of the biggest attractions on the island. The lagoon and spa are located near Grindavik, about 20m south of Keflavik Airport by car, so it’s very easy to visit after your flight and enjoy a relaxing swim in the turquoise water.

Can I buy local currency at Keflavik Airport?

Yes, you can. The local currency is the Icelandic Krona and there is a branch of Arion Bank in the Arrivals Hall at Keflavik Airport where you can exchange your dollars or make other financial transactions after your flight from the US to Iceland. The bank is open daily until midnight local time for your convenience.

Where should I fly if I wish to view the Aurora Borealis?

The Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights, is the world’s most spectacular light show and is visible just about anywhere in Iceland with a clear view of the night sky just as long as it’s not snowing. Flying into Reykjavik is sufficient.

How long is the flight to Iceland?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Iceland takes 10h 02m, covering a distance of 3418 miles. The most popular route is Newark - Reykjavik with an average flight time of 5h 35m.

What is the cheapest flight to Iceland?

The cheapest ticket to Iceland from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $160 one-way, and $228 round-trip. The most popular route is Newark to Reykjavik Keflavik Intl and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $419.

Which airlines fly to Iceland?

Icelandair, JetBlue & PLAY fly the most frequently from the United States to Iceland. The most popular route is from New York to Reykjavik, and JetBlue, Icelandair and Air Canada fly this route the most.

What are the most popular destinations in Iceland?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Reykjavik (100% of total searches to Iceland). The next most popular destination is Akureyri (0.0%).

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Iceland

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Iceland flight deals.
• Reykjavik Airport (RKV) is widely chosen as the arrival airport among most travelers flying to Iceland from the US thanks to its closeness to Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. Passengers flying this route out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) have the choice of flying on indirect flights with one layover at Copenhagen Airport (CPH) on such airlines as Air Canada, Air France, or American Airways.
• Most tourists from the east coast areas of the United States who wish to travel to Iceland depart from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and arrive at one of the airports in Iceland. Tourists who wish to travel from the US to Iceland as swiftly as possible might consider the JFK to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) route. Icelandair 612 and Icelandair 614 are the two principal airlines that offer nonstop flight services on this route.
• Consider flying from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) if you plan to fly to Iceland from the central parts of the United States. No airlines are offering nonstop services on this route, leaving customers flying from the USA to Iceland with only the option of taking connecting flights.
• Most Americans who travel to Iceland frequently prefer to fly out of JFK. Since it acts as a hub for so many respected airlines that fly abroad from the United States, this airport is well-liked. Travelers leaving from this airport towards Iceland are likely to enjoy ticket discounts due to price competition among airlines.
• If you're coming from the northwest region of the United States to Iceland, you might want to consider departing from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Consider flying into Akureyri International Airport (AEY) if you want to leave SEA Airport as quickly as possible. On this route, one-stop indirect flights with a layover at Frankfurt Airport (FRA) are offered by the majority of carriers, like Lufthansa and Air Canada.
• US citizens booking flights from the US to Iceland do not require a visa in order to travel. Iceland is part of the Schengen program, therefore US permanent residents from EU countries that are members of the Schengen zone also do not require a visa.
• Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is the only international gateway to Iceland and is situated at the southwestern tip of the island. This airport is used mainly for international flights so if you wish to fly to other areas of the country, you must use Reykjavik Airport (RKV), which is about 2 mi from Reykjavik City.
• There are only a handful of airlines that offer nonstop flights to Iceland from the United States and all of them originate from cities on the Eastern seaboard. Icelandair flies direct from JFK in New York and Newark’s EWR while JetBlue flies nonstop from Logan International Airport (BOS) in Boston.
• Air Iceland is the country’s main domestic carrier and uses Reykjavik Airport as its hub. If you prefer to fly around the country, you can fly Air Iceland to other regional airports such as Raufarhofn Airport (RFN), which services the Northeastern Region of the country, and Isafjordhur Airport (IFJ) if you are traveling to the West Fjords area.
• Iceland is a nature lover’s paradise and no trip is truly complete without a visit to Snaefellsjokull National Park, which is home to a glacier, volcanic lava fields and various local wildlife. The park is found in the outer reaches of the Western Region, not far from Hellisandur, and once you fly into Keflavik Airport, it will take you about 4h to get there by car.

Top 5 airlines flying to Iceland

Big plane, long flight, absolutely no leg room and basically non existent air! I am 5”4’ and always travel Main Cabin, I was miserable on this plane and could barely move when we arrived in Cabo due to the cramped leg area!

From Atlanta to Cabo I would have hoped on a plane that size I would have been able to breathe and wiggle my feet a little! The leg room in that plane is non existent and I am only 5”4’. And the air vent either wasn’t working very well or just could not blow air from the ceiling to the seat area as I was suffocating through the entire flight! And please don’t say I would have been more comfortable in first class because I cannot afford those rates and have always travelled Main Cabin without issues !

The pilots were good. Disappointing when planes don't have electrical ports

I liked the piloting of the aircraft. Very disappointed about lack of electrical ports. Also, although a short flight. there was enough time to hand out snacks to comfort + seats as was done for first class.

I had a wonderful experience flying with delta. The gentleman taking care of us on our flight was so nice, accommodating, and attentive. He always was smiling and giving pins to the kids which made me smile. The flight was quick too and without turbulence. Thank you for the great flying experience.

Delta is one of the best airlines I have flown

Made the Atlanta to Pittsburgh trip many times, with Delta no issues

I always fly with Delta. My friends tell me their horror stories of flying with other airlines. I just smile and say, “You should fly Delta”

I'm a larger, athletic guy (6'2", 260lbs powerlifter) and I found the seats incredibly uncomfortable with minimal leg room, especially in a window seat. Now, I full understand that being smaller may change my view but even if I was 80lbs less, my legs would be the same size and I was sandwiched between my seat and the seat in front of me.

Horrible. This was not first class. This was a connecting flight whi h was late. My original flight never came. I hated the fact that delta gave me a connecting flight from New York to Orlando Florida. No meals and the television screens were not working. There wasn't even any power to charge your phones. This is NOT FIRST CLASS DELTA!!! Do better next time!

Great. Loved that there was WiFi on flight to keep in touch and excellent service of beverages and snacks.

Business class is great. New airplane, very comfortable, better than some of the major airlines I am used to

Terrible. Flight was cancelled due to the weather in the east and sout east(florida). Did not get any compesation of any kind. According to them, it was not under their control so I lost all the money paid for the 2 fairs from Raleigh, NC to Orlando, Fl.

great flight. Pilot was communicative, flight attendants were excellent. Really nice experience except my tv didn’t work.

Overall, the flight was better than the flight I took to go to Florida, which had a bunch of problems. The crew is really nice and the plane was new so it had a small problem when we were on the runway, but the flight itself was great. They even made some time back up, which is always a good thing.

at the time for boarding the lady just call Group A and no other goups and everybody from A to F go inside without the right turn,and when we get in theres no more spsce for carry on , the ones that get in at not correct group from the back occupy our space !!!!! a mess !!!!

There were multiple delays but JetBlue tried to make the boarding and departure process as quick and efficient as possible. The crew was as detached from reality as could be, meaning: not very friendly and just doing things by the numbers.

I had back trouble prior to my flight and everyone was great about helping me.

Jetblue needs to improve on Onboarding as it seems to always be behind on departing. It never leaves on time. I would recommend to have an earlier Onboarding in order to leave on time and respect your customers time as well.

40 minute delay before take off after boarding flight. Bright lights throughout night flight due Issues with light panels. In flight Entertainment nonfunctional

Great! The plane was decently sized and comfortable. The staff was nice and there was great in flight entertainment

Food was terrible Not many options Stewards dont care Delay

Water service would be great. The way they board is terrible. Slow passengers first😂😂 They need to smart up a bit

Our original business class flight was cancelled so we not only downgraded but we were also spread out across the plane not sitting together in separate middle seats. My poor kids were scared and couldn’t see me on the flight and the crew wasn’t sensitive to the situation and what the airlines did to us. Very dissatisfied with United airlines.

Crew were fine, drinks and snacks were as well but we were delayed for around 2 hrs which made our entry into Mexico delayed as well with the influx of arrivals at the same time. Sort of wasted our first day of vacation. We left Pittsburgh at 630am and did not arrive in Mexico until late dinner time.

The ride was good but no food ot entertainment hence, it was just over an hour flight.

There was a group of school age passengers that were very loud and unruly with their chaperones were no where to be found.

Boarding was unorganized. They expected passengers to ask people to move their assigned seat they paid for in order to sit together. The seats even in comfort are smaller than other airlines and the flight attendants appeared not to be well prepared

The WiFi didn’t work and the seats are too close together. Very uncomfortable.

I was told we'd have a hot breakfast option in first class, so I chose not get a hot breakfast. It was a very strange meal, but the fresh fruit was very good quality. Service was excellent from ORD to ELP. No service from MBS to ORD, not even water. However, when flying American from FNT to ORD, which is a shorter flight, they at least pass out snacks and offer water.

did not get the seats we had specially paid for

This is a no frills airline. You cant expect much for the price. Low cost flight, clean, nice staff. That's all I need for the price. If you want more, book with another airline and pay more. For Europe trips, PLAY is the ONLY airline I use

Misleading instructions for check in. Although I did virtual check in and was instructed to head to security, once I was at security, they told me to go back to Play ticket counter and get paper tickets. Also, beware that Play doesn’t participate in TSA PreCheck. I didn’t know that, despite entering PreCheck info when I purchased the tickets. I wasted time in the TSA PreCheck line as well. So we had two setbacks at check in.

It's a budget airline, so forewarned is forearmed. Yes, you pay for everything like carry-on, checked baggage, seat selection, but that's becoming the case with major airlines. Bringing your own snacks and entertainment on board is highly recommended. It's no frills, but the crew, the plane and the flight itself was great. If you want pampering go for a larger airline. If you just want to get from A to B in comfort and safety, Play is a great choice.

It is a low cost airline. Staff are courteous. There is no entertainment. Food is purchased.

Upon boarding, the people at the gate were extremely rude, there were no outlets on a 6 hour international flight, there was no entertainment, all food and drink was purchase only (even snacks), and my seat reclining function was fully broken. The only redeeming quality was the flight attendants were extremely nice. This was by far the worst flight I have ever been on in my entire life

I don’t know how international flights can’t have media screens to keep people entertained for the long flight. Ugh.

Typical experience for budget airline. Boarding from KEF required bus transit from the gate to plane, so if you had "priority boarding" it was useless as it was simply a free-for-all when getting off the bus. But still no issues with getting our luggage into overhead bin so not really a problem.

Was very apprehensive about flying Play, but the flight was fine. Nothing special, nothing horrible. Fair price to get from New York to Iceland.

I wasn’t able to check in online the day before or the day of because their web configuration or business model idk. I arrived an hour early and check was closed and there was no one around to speak to and eventually was told there was no possible way to get a digital ticket despite I had no luggage to check and would have easily made it through security to boarding and had to pay for a new ticket for $330 ontop of the $169 I spend for the ticket and then I missed my rental car for $305 because I only arrived at midnight instead of noon that I was originally intended. All booked through kayak. I hope there is some kind of insurance from kayak because this was totally preventable had I not been blocked by play air from getting my check in and plane ticket.

Very nice flight, easy connections in Keflavík, and friendly crew.

I will never fly this airline again. Checking in was poor , we had to go back to the check in counter at Raleigh - Durham international airport three times because they didn’t issue my boarding pass but rather duplicated my husband’s twice which caused a big headache at the passport control at the airport which triggered security alert and wouldn’t let us pass through we we had to wait for long time to be able to explain and clear everything after talking to the supervisor.. No food on the plane , not even crackers. No food was offered to buy ether . No ear phone was provided . Very little time to make from one plane to another and nobody to assist with smooth transition. Flight itself , we felt safe so thank you to the pilots . But customer service was terrible . We spent $ 2500 on 2 tickets, so I cannot say that service was consistent with the price .

Seats are way too much now with these new airplanes especially long flights like we had. I was 7 month pregnant and in a lot of discomfort due to small seats.

Food was horrible. This wasn’t business class. No leg space, can’t sleep in row position, huge delay

I liked how easy my transfers between flights in Keflavik were. I would have appreciated more food options in Keflavik.

The plane was flaming hot! Could not breathe. Everyone coughing from heat. Awful.

My biggest problem was the flight from KEF to DUB was delayed, which caused me to miss my connecting flight in DUB and we were forced into an unplanned 10-hour layover in DUB. Crew and boarding staff were all very friendly but this was a real inconvenience and especially uncomfortable for my disabled wife.

Not much! This was my first flight with Iceland air and unfortunately it wasn’t what I have expected. My luggage is lost nothing as of yet where it was left. Not a good service at all!!

The seat size was more like a domestic than an international flight. In fact, i would compare the ammenities, quality and service to a short hall ryan air flight, which was unexpected for an international flight. The plane was extremely hot so sleeping was difficult. My biggest complaint was that they are very strict on carry on luggage only allowing it to weigh 10kg/22lb. I try to limit myself to a carryon so i don't have to mess with bagage claim, but the wieght restriction made it impossible. I have never had a carry on weight restriction (at least enforced) on an international flight. Will not be including them in future searches.

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Simple Flying

Exploring iceland on a long stopover: the simple flying guide.

Icelandic carriers Icelandair and PLAY give passengers the unique opportunity to tour the island before continuing their journey.

• Icelandair and PLAY offer transatlantic travelers free stopovers in Iceland, allowing them to explore the country's beauty. Accommodations are not included, giving travelers the flexibility to choose lodging that suits their preferences and budget. PLAY's Stayover option lets travelers stay up to 10 days in Iceland, offering a unique twist on a traditional layover experience.

Icelandic airlines, Icelandair and PLAY, offer travelers flying across the Atlantic the opportunity to book a stopover in Iceland without any extra cost. For those who have not visited before, Iceland is a country of dramatic landscapes and is famously known as "the land of fire and ice" due to it being home to the largest glaciers in Europe and some of the world's most active volcanoes.

This stopover allows travelers to explore the natural wonders of Iceland, including geothermal pools, the northern lights, waterfalls, geysers, and hot springs, in addition to their final destination. This booking option provides an excellent opportunity to experience all the island has to offer.

It's important to note that while this stopover booking offers a unique opportunity to explore Iceland's natural and cultural highlights, it does not include accommodations. Travelers must arrange their lodging separately, allowing them to choose accommodations that best fit their preferences and budget. Travelers can tailor their stay in Iceland to their desires, whether it's a luxurious retreat or a cozy, budget-friendly guesthouse.

The airline allows transatlantic passengers to add a stopover in Iceland at no additional airfare for up to seven days. Passengers choose how many days to spend in Iceland. There are various accommodation options, from cozy cabins to sophisticated hotels, and something for every traveler.

The airline offers vacation packages for stopover travelers. Icelandair has a long history with many partners across Iceland, from hotels and car rentals to restaurants and tour operators. Many of their partners have received Vakinn , the official quality and environmental certificate for Icelandic tourism. Iceland Air partnered with local photographer and content creator Ása Steinars, who created inspiring ideas for travelers on how to spend their Stopover time. Check out Ása's videos for itineraries that make the most of Iceland .

Should travelers notice a difference in flight costs when adding a Stopover in Iceland to their booking, it could be that airfare prices vary according to demand. Icelandair recommends trying different date combinations for travelers with flexible travel plans to explore its Stopover options.

Since the early 1960s, Icelandair has offered its stopover service to passengers. In 2014, the airline launched its first global campaign highlighting the Icelandair Stopover. That year, passenger numbers grew by around 315,000 from the previous year.

In January, PLAY started offering its Stayovers, allowing passengers to stay up to 10 days in Iceland. The low-cost Icelandic airline operates between North America and Europe. PLAY's Stayovers take advantage of the airline's flights, connecting through Iceland. PLAY calls their stopover a "Stayover," stay being more inviting than stop. Stay a little longer in Iceland, for up to 10 days on each leg in PLAY's Stayover booking.

“PLAY has taken advantage of Iceland’s location near Europe to bring travelers convenient flights and affordable fares, and now the stopover feature brings even more benefits to our passengers. Rather than having a few hours layover in Iceland, travelers can make a stop at this bucket-list destination for an extra day or week to experience everything our home country has to offer. Long stayovers are a win-win for both us and our passengers to enable exploration at a low price,” said Birgir Jónsson former PLAY CEO.

In 2021, PLAY took its first flight and now operates a modern fleet of 10 Airbus A320 and A321neos, with the average age of the aircraft being less than three years. In North America, PLAY operates flights to Baltimore, Boston, New York, and Washington DC in the United States, as well as Toronto in Canada. PLAY flies to over 30 European destinations, including Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, London, Copenhagen, Barcelona, and Athens.

Last year, according to the prestigious World Airline Awards based on customer satisfaction, PLAY was recognized as the top low-cost airline in Northern Europe. PLAY offers competitive market prices, striving to make travel more affordable. PLAY prides itself on operational excellence, with an 83% on-time performance in 2023. By choosing PLAY, passengers have a safe and reliable journey and will spend less on their flight ticket, meaning they can spend more on their destination.

Icelandic LCC PLAY Expands To Africa With New Morocco Airbus A320 Route

Icelandic airlines Icelandair and PLAY give an enticing offer to transatlantic travelers: the option to book a stopover in Iceland at no additional charge. Passengers can immerse themselves in the beauty of Iceland and explore its natural wonders: geothermal baths, awe-inspiring northern lights, majestic waterfalls, erupting geysers, and soothing hot springs, all while making their way to their final destination. This booking option provides travelers with an Icelandic experience, allowing them to fully appreciate the island's diverse landscapes and cultural offerings. It's an ideal choice for those looking to enrich their travel itinerary with an adventure to one of the world's most stunning destinations without stretching their budget.

Source: Icelandair , PLAY and Visit Iceland

Icelandair Now Optimistic Of Higher Profits With $1.6 Billion Revenue Projected This Year

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Northern Lights tourism in Iceland: You can seek, but you may not find

Amelia Nierenberg

ICELAND – From the outside, it may seem like the Northern Lights dance across Iceland’s skies each night. On Icelandair ads, planes fly across shimmering curtains in the sky. On social media, travellers gaze at the green bands above them. The lights are even on some recycling bins in Reykjavík, the capital: “Keep Iceland Clean”.

In the past decade or so, an aurora borealis industrial complex has boomed in Iceland. Many rent a car and go out on their own, but there are Northern Lights big bus tours and Northern Lights minibus tours and Northern Lights Super Jeep tours. There are private guides and boat cruises. There is an observatory base camp. There is even a museum.

But the lights can be elusive.

“Tourists sometimes expect, like, ‘At what time do you turn them on?’” says Mr Bjorn Saevar Einarsson, a forecaster at the country’s meteorological office, chuckling. “Like we have a switch in the back room.”

In 2024, the letdowns have been especially intense.

The Northern Lights, which are also called the aurora borealis, are most visible when there are solar flares, which are big eruptions on the sun that send charged particles towards earth. This year, the sun is approaching the peak of its 11-year cycle of activity, which some assume means that the displays could peak too.

But the enhanced solar activity does not necessarily mean the northern lights will be brighter or more frequent, scientists wearily explain. Instead, they mostly mean that the lights can be seen farther south than usual. In recent months, they have been visible in Arizona and Missouri in the United States, and southern England.

That does not mean much for Iceland.

In fact, Icelanders and scientists said, this winter is nothing special. Sometimes, the lights are there. Sometimes, they are not. Just like always.

Hunting the lights

But nothing special, with the Northern Lights, is still very special. And so tourists keep coming.

In February, I joined the fray. For four nights, I looked for telltale sky shimmers in and around Reykjavík.

I booked my tickets riding high – this was the best year yet, right?

But as I learnt more, and as my flight neared, my hopes ebbed. Scientists and tour leaders gently told me that the skies were cloudy and the solar activity seemed quiet.

“Just to let you know the forecast doesn’t look too good,” Ms Inga Dis Richter, chief commercial officer at Icelandia, a tourism agency, wrote in an e-mail two days before I planned to take a minibus trip with Reykjavik Excursions, one of its tour operators.

“But,” she added, “this can change.”

To find the lights, guides and travellers often rely on aurora forecasts, which overlay cloud cover and solar activity. They check them constantly, like a bride with an outdoor wedding in mid-April.

Some of the forecasts are free, like the aurora forecast run by Iceland’s meteorological office or Iceland at Night, which includes space weather. Some are not – Aurora Forecast, which costs US$12.99 (S$18) a year, sends alerts. Many people also turn to Facebook pages, where enthusiasts hungrily swop sightings.

Luck, though, is everything.

“There’s only one thing less predictable with the Northern Lights, and that’s the Arctic weather,” said Mr John Mason, a global expert on the lights. “An aurora forecast is barely worth the paper that it’s written on.”

The guides work hard to explain the science, and set expectations. Most companies offer a free rebooking option if the lights do not show up.

On my first night of aurora stalking, despite Ms Richter’s warnings, I joined an expectant group on the Reykjavík Excursions minibus. For US$88, I got a seat on the 19-person bus, which left the city’s central bus station at 9.30pm.

Over the next three to four hours, we would drive through the Icelandic night together. I would either see something astonishing with these strangers – the sky, banded with light – or shiver with them shoulder to shoulder, awkward in the cold.

As we pulled onto the road, Mr Gudjon Gunnarsson, the guide, set the mood early. “We are going hunting for the lights,” he said, emphasising the word “hunting”. “It’s similar to going out fishing in a lake.”

He drove for about 45 minutes, letting Reykjavík’s glow fade behind us. The city has about 140,000 people, and no real skyscrapers, so there is limited light pollution. Although the Northern Lights can appear over the city, it is best to see them in total darkness.

Then he paused and consulted with another guide.

“It is too cloudy here,” he told his flock. “So we will keep driving.”

But as we kept driving, clouds turned to a dense fog, so thick that the moon all but disappeared.

Mr Gunnarsson turned off the main highway about an hour after we left Reykjavík. He parked in a parking lot. Or maybe it was a side street? The darkness was so deep that I could make out only the moonlight on the ocean, and only then after my eyes adjusted.

We disembarked and stood dutifully beside him, staring up at the sky. Then, one woman pointed towards Reykjavík. Were those the lights? No. That was light pollution.

Mr Christof Reinhard, 65, who owns a medical laser company and was visiting with his family from Paris, mused that our search was a little bit like a safari. Sure, the desert is amazing, but it is much better with lions. Or, maybe, was this more like a whale watch?

“Instead of a boat,” he said, “you have a bus.”

Mr Gunnarsson watched the group stomp their feet and bend into the wind. Fifteen minutes. Then, half an hour. The clouds hung thick above. “There’s nothing happening here, as you can see,” he finally said to relieved chuckles. “It’s one of those nights where you just have to give up.”

Tourists can get mad, Mr Gunnarsson and other guides said. It is rare, but it does happen.

“It’s the trip that has our worst reviews,” said Mr Eric Larimer, digital marketing manager for Gray Line Iceland, a day tour and airport transport company.

A wake-up call for the aurora

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hotel Rangá (@hotelranga)

For some, the joy is in the search, even if there is no find. A few focus on astronomy, often opting to stay at Hotel Ranga, which is just off the main ring road (Route 1) near Iceland’s south coast.

The hotel looks unassuming – low-slung and wooden – but it’s one of the most famous in Iceland. A standard room costs more than US$300, depending on the season.

But Hotel Ranga does not just cater to celebrities. It also draws astronomy buffs, enticed by its “aurora wake-up call” service and its observatory, which has state-of-the-art telescopes.

“One thing is to sell them,” said Mr Fridrik Palsson, the hotel’s owner, speaking of the Northern Lights. “Another thing is to deliver them.”

About 20 years ago, before the Northern Lights industry took off, he delegated the night security guard to monitor the sky. The guard pokes his head out every few minutes to look for the telltale flicker. If he sees the lights, he alerts the guests.

The service aims to address one of the main issues with hunting for the lights: They are usually visible only on winter nights, when it is very cold, very windy and very late.

“To be a good Northern Lights observer, you need the constitution of an insomniac polar bear,” Mr Mason said.

My room phone, alas, stayed silent. But I did dream about the lights – great Wonka colours swirling, strangely, behind the Chrysler Building.

Mr Palsson built the observatory, too. Even if the lights did not show up, he figured, the stars are still magnificent – and, for city dwellers, also rare.

The hotel contracts astronomers to work the telescopes and explain the stars to guests. On my second night in Iceland, as twilight slipped below happy-hour skies, I crunched across the snow to the observatory with Mr Saevar Helgi Bragason, an Icelandic science communicator who leads the astronomy programme.

He bent into a toddler-sized telescope, focusing it on the moon’s craters. They looked clearer than the hotel, just a short walk away. It was too early for the lights, he said. And that evening seemed too cloudy (on earth) and too quiet (on the sun).

Bragason joked that the lights can get in his way. They create a mist over the stars he really wants to see. But tourists often come specifically to see them. And sometimes, he said, as they wait impatiently, they can miss the real wonder.

“You’re left with these beautiful skies above you,” he said. “Basically, literally, another universe opens up.”

Creating a lights season

Hotel Ranga was a pioneer in Iceland’s Northern Lights tourism industry. About two decades ago, people came to Iceland for the long summer days, and left as daylight slipped farther south.

“I found it rather stupid in the beginning,” admitted Mr Palsson, speaking of Northern Lights tourism.

But spreading tourism throughout the year made sense. Partly, that was an environmental concern. The tourists would crowd the country’s extraordinary natural sites over just a few months. It was also economic. When the visitors left Iceland, tourism jobs would ebb with the sunlight.

So the Northern Lights, which are reliably visible from September to March, became the backbone of the country’s winter branding, said Mr Sveinn Birkir Bjornsson, marketing and communications director at Business Iceland, which promotes the country.

“To be able to sell this product of cold and darkness, you have to have something to offer,” he said.

Now, even though June, July and August are the busiest months, tourism has evened out over the seasons. In 2023, there were about 1.1 million international visitors to Iceland during the aurora months, based on departures from Keflavík Airport, according to data from Iceland’s tourist board. From April to August, there were about 1.1 million too.

About a decade earlier, when overall tourism to Iceland was lower, there were about 336,000 departures from the main airport in the colder months, and about 446,000 in the spring and summer.

The winter travellers are drawn by the lights – and the hot springs, glaciers and icy waterfalls. It is also cheaper than the summer season.

Some try to visit volcanoes, but the country recently warned tourists to avoid the lava flows – Iceland is living in an unusually active period of seismic activity. In January, lava flowed into a small town, and last week, a volcano erupted with just 40 minutes’ notice near the Blue Lagoon thermal springs, one of the country’s biggest attractions.

The final attempts

Near midnight on my last night, a Sunday, I drove to the Grotta Lighthouse, a popular spot on the outskirts of Reykjavík.

A few die-hard experts had warned me – many tourists go there because it is darker than most of Reykjavík, but then do not think to turn off their headlights. It was also raining, greatly diminishing my chances of seeing the lights.

But I only had three hours before I had to leave to make my predawn flight. I felt a little desperate, a little dazed. I parked and approached two people who were sitting in the rain on a wet wall, looking at the water in the darkness. I climbed over seaweed, and introduced myself. What would it mean to them, I asked, if the lights suddenly appeared?

“It’d be a little bit like the cherry on top,” said Ms Catherine Norburn, 29, who was visiting from England.

She and her husband were set to fly out the next morning. They had not yet seen the lights.

“We don’t have high hopes,” said her husband, Mr Reece Norburn, 29, “but it’s now or never.”

We did not see the lights. And I did not see them later, even after pulling off the highway halfway between Reykjavík and the airport at 3.30am, half convinced by a shimmery cloud.

But I did spend more time looking up at the sky. And it is a marvel.

In New York City, where I live, the night sky blooms orange-mauve. In Iceland, the nighttime darkness is just that – darkness. Clouds roll, breaking the deep blue. Stars actually shine. Northern Lights or no Northern Lights, it was still cosmically beautiful. NYTIMES

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

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The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Waterfalls in Iceland
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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Believe it or not, you can enjoy a foodie trip to Iceland – how Reykjavik became a culinary destination

W hat comes to mind when you hear ‘ Iceland ’? Glaciers. Volcanoes. The Blue Lagoon. A craggy, rugged landscape lit up by Northern Lights , punctuated by waterfalls and steaming pools. The island’s natural beauty is renowned the world over.

But Nordic food, on the other hand, doesn’t have the best reputation. If you’ve watched any travel show that visits Iceland , you’re likely to have seen the host grimacing over hákarl, the national dish of fermented Greenland shark. So notorious is this delicacy that the late Anthony Bourdain declared it to be one of the most disgusting things he had ever tasted; more recently, Jessica Hynes described it as a “jelly cube of ammonia” while Richard Ayoade spat his portion of hákarl out after a few chews in a 2016 episode of Travel Man.

Aside from the cured shark meat, other Icelandic dishes tourists tend to curl their toes at include svið, half a sheep’s head cross-sectioned, boiled and served with mashed potatoes; and harðfiskur, fish that is so dried out it appears almost mummified. Preservation is an important part of the country’s flavours, which means many traditional foods are smoked, salted, cured, dried, and fermented.

Modern day Iceland , however, is very different. Located only a few degrees south of the Arctic Circle, the harsh climate previously meant that locals depended heavily on subsistence farming. Now, with imports, migration, tourism, and ever-improving agricultural technologies, the capital’s food scene is full of excitement, fresh flavours and techniques, and a burgeoning sense of pride.

The culinary talent in Reykjavik started seeing exponential growth some 20 years ago, which was around the time that accomplished chef Siggi Hall first launched the Food and Fun Festival. This week-long festival sees chefs from all over the world take over restaurants and create dishes that take inspiration from their own cultures and experiences through Icelandic produce.

Read more on foodie travel :

• A fiery new food tour across America’s Deep South
• How to eat your way around the world on the 7 line through Queens in NYC
• The ultimate food tour of Greece’s Peloponnese

In the succeeding years, Iceland ’s restaurant scene has exploded, particularly in the fine dining arena. In 2017 the country gained its very first Michelin star in DILL, and has since been credited for paving the way for the rebranding of Icelandic cuisine. Since then, the country has collected three Michelin stars and has four more restaurants recommended in the Michelin Guide, including TIDES restaurant, housed in the stylish five-star Reykjavik EDITION Hotel.

When visiting Reykjavik during the festival, I was initially unsure what to expect. Would the emphasis be on more traditional elements of Icelandic food? Would hákarl make an appearance on any of the menus? Would I be offered something controversial like whale or puffin meat? You can find these highly contentious foods at a handful of restaurants in Reykjavik, such as at Grillmarkaðurinn or 3 Frakkar.

But there was no hákarl, whale or puffin meat during the festival, with chefs keen to distance themselves from awkward conversations and difficult ingredients. Instead, they made use of the abundant lamb and fish available to Iceland, as well as lesser-known ingredients like Icelandic moss and crowberries. At TIDES, which was taken over by Michelin-starred chef Osman Sezener, of Turkey’s celebrated OD Urla, I feasted on an open fire-cooked Arctic char with a south Turkish citrus sauce and an Aegean-style octopus with a perfectly crisp tentacle tip that gave way to a pleasant chewiness.

I also had the pleasure of dining at Brut, a powerhouse when it comes to award-winning seafood dishes. Headed by another former Dill chef, Ragnar Eiríksson, and sommelier Ólafur Örn Ólafsson, Brut’s relaxed atmosphere and open kitchen is inviting and friendly, with staff who are keen to have a little chat with customers. Contrasting textures and flavours ruled my night at Brut, with silky, buttery cod and delicate leeks juxtaposed with meaty, powerful monkfish served alongside fermented garlic and braised cabbage.

Dining in Reyjkjavik is a very laid-back affair, with people swanning in late for reservations and hardly anyone batting an eyelid. This was the case everywhere I went and singled me out as a tourist, as I was frequently one of just a handful of diners who turned up on time for their tables.

Following dinner, there is no shortage of excellent drinking spots peppered throughout the city. Röntgen Bar serves a mean Reykjavik Mule using the country’s signature alcohol, Brennivin; Vínstúkan Tíu Sopar is a basement wine bar with good vibes and excellent wine recommendations; and Kaffibarinn is nice and cosy with a great selection of beers.

Although Reykjavik is not an inexpensive city, it is possible to find cheap eats. You’ll spot the signature red-and-white hut of the Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hotdog stands across the city, often with lines snaking out of them – you can score a hotdog and a soft drink for about £6. Reykjavik is also famed for its bakeries where you can grab sandwiches and pastries that are more wallet-friendly. The cinnamon rolls at at Brauð & Co are legendary (and enormous). For vegan food, head to Mama Reykjavik where you’ll find flavour-filled stews and wraps served in a cosy setting.

The city has undoubtedly found its feet as a food destination. My advice would be to make your reservations early – even if you don’t really have to turn up on time for them.

Best restaurants in Reykjavik

TIDES prides itself on showcasing the best of Iceland’s produce. As part of the Reykjavik EDITION, it’s the first introduction to Icelandic cuisine for many tourists – and what a fantastic introduction it is.

Seafood plays an important role in Nordic cuisine and Brut is one of the best places in Reykjavik to enjoy it. It’s won a number of awards for good reason – it’s a wonderful, elegant space to spend an afternoon or evening of feasting.

This Michelin-recommended restaurant is bringing Mediterranean flavours to the Nordic island with style. It was recently featured in the latest series of Somebody Feed Phil, with host Phil Rosenthal singing its praises.

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

Get in line for the world-famous Icelandic hot dogs, which are unusual because they incorporate lamb meat in the sausage instead of the usual pork or beef. Order a ‘one with everything’ to get all the toppings, including raw onions, crispy fried onions, apple-based ketchup, mustard and remoulade.

Bernhoftsbakari

Iceland’s oldest bakery is well worth a visit, especially if you’re curious about traditional baked goods like Icelandic cheesecake, which is made with skyr, and Hjónabandssæla, a rhubarb jam-filled cake known as ‘Marriage Cake’.

Kebabs continue to make their mark around the world as a traveller’s favourite, and Mandi is no exception, especially with its budget-friendly prices. Grab freshly grilled mixed plates and wraps here, either to eat in or to go.

Kate was hosted by the Reykjavik EDITION.

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Win a trip to Iceland

Parking in Reykjavík

• April 30, 2024

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In Reykjavík, there are four parking zones: P1, P2, P3, and P4. You can see which zone you are in by the blue signs with a white “P” and its corresponding zone number. Each has its own prices and payment periods. You can see the parking zones in the city centre on this map , and their prices here below.

Street parking in Reykjavík: prices and chargeable hours

Zone P1 (Red and pink)

• ISK 600 [$4.35, €4] per hour
• 9 AM–9 PM on weekdays and 10 AM–9 PM on weekends 
• Maximum 3 hours

Zone P2 (Blue)

• ISK 220 [$1.60, €1.47] per hour

Zone P3 (Green)

• ISK 220 [$1.60, €1.47] per hour for the first two hours 
• ISK 65 for each additional hour
• 9 AM to 6 PM on weekdays

Zone P4 (Orange)

• 8 AM to 4 PM on weekdays

Street parking is free of charge on the following holidays:

New Year’s Day, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter, Easter Monday, First Day of Summer, May 1, Ascension Day, Whit Sunday, Whit Monday, June 17, Merchants Day, Christmas Day and December 26.

Parking garages in Reykjavík: prices and hours

Parking garages are open daily from 7 AM to midnight.

Garages at Stjörnuport (Laugavegur St. 86-90) and Vitatorg (Skúlagata St. 22)

• ISK 180 [$1.30, €1.20] for the first hour
• ISK 120 [$0.87, €0.80] each additional hour 

Garages at Kolaport (Kalofnsvegur Rd. 3), Ráðhús City Hall, Traðarkot (Hverfisgata St. 20) and Vesturgata St. 7

• ISK 260 [$1.90, €1.75] for the first hour
• ISK 130 [$0.94, €0.87] for each additional hour

If you leave your car past opening hours, you will continue paying the hourly fee, even though the garage is closed for access.

Paying for parking in Reykjavík

You may use coins, debit/credit cards, or digital wallets to pay through parking meters. You can also pay online on the Reykjavík Parking Authority’s website . Lastly, you can pay with a parking app on your phone. Note that some meters may not accept coins.

• Tickets bought in Zone P1 are valid for all zones. 
• Tickets bought in Zone P2 are valid in zones P2, P3, and P4
• Tickets bought in Zone P3 are only valid in Zone P3
• Tickets bought in Zone P4 are only valid in Zone P4

Paying with a parking app

You can pay using parking apps such as EasyPark and Parka . These apps can be used for any parking zone or garage in Reykjavík. You simply input your licence plate number and the zone in which you are located to activate the timer, and then check out once you are done using the space. The fee is prorated and paid through the app. The apps include a map of the zones, making finding the less expensive ones easier.

I got a parking fine in Iceland; what do I do?

Parking tickets in Iceland are electronic, meaning you will not find a paper ticket on your windshield. The car’s licence plate will be traced to your car rental company, which will notify you and provide payment instructions. If you receive a parking ticket, you can pay it here . Familiarising yourself with Icelandic parking signs can help you avoid getting a fine. Keep in mind that street parking and garages are not meant for campers or motorhomes; those must be parked at campsites. Remember that in Iceland, you must park in the direction of traffic.

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All-Inclusive 5-Day Vacation Package in Iceland

Description

Witness the most glorious highlights of Iceland over five days with this immersive, all-inclusive winter vacation. Those who wish to marvel over the northern lights, explore a crystal blue ice cave, and visit the country's most famous attractions should look no further than this trip.

Despite lasting less than a week, every day of this incredible Icelandic experience will provide unforgettable memories of the country.

You'll visit the hot spring areas, waterfalls, national parks, glaciers, and volcanoes that make Iceland's nature world-renowned as you traverse the famous Golden Circle and South Coast sightseeing routes.

While every day will be packed with adventure, you will spend every night hunting for the aurora borealis. The northern lights, the country's most breathtaking winter attraction, can appear anytime when the sky is dark and clear.

On the first night of your trip, you will take a bus into the nature around Reykjavik or a boat from the harbor to search for the northern lights.

Each subsequent evening, you can set out independently from your accommodation in the hope of witnessing a grand display, with your chances maximized when you're in the countryside.

While in this spectacular part of the country, you will explore a crystal blue ice cave, an adventure only possible at a few select places on Earth and under particular conditions.

Ice or glacier caves are spectacular places of vivid color and surreal light that all winter guests should see.

Other than aurora hunting and ice caving, an entrance package to the luxurious Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is included in your trip.

You also have the opportunity to add more exciting activities to your itinerary during the booking process, such as snorkeling, snowmobiling, and horseback riding.

After tailoring your action-packed, all-inclusive winter holiday to your desires when booking, you don't need to worry about booking hotels, organizing excursions, or finding bus transfers.

This top-rated winter package features four nights' accommodation, airport transfers, a detailed itinerary, and a personal travel agent to contact for assistance or queries.

To make your vacation even more stress-free, you won't have to drive on Iceland's wintry roads, as all your adventures will be led by experienced, friendly guides.

They will ensure your safety during the trip while enriching it with thrilling trivia and local tales about each attraction on your itinerary.

If your plans change and you need to cancel, you are entitled to a full refund up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure.

Make the most out of five days in Iceland with this immersive winter vacation with ice caving and northern lights hunting. Check availability now by choosing a date.

Attractions

Daily itinerary

Day 1 - Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights

On the first day of your short winter getaway in Iceland, you will land at the country's biggest airport, Keflavik International Airport (KEF). After making your way through customs, you'll find your bus transfer waiting to take you to your accommodation in Reykjavik.

On your way to Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik, you can stop at the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. This world-renowned spa is known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments.

It is in the middle of a moss-covered lava field, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere.

Adding the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to your itinerary will be arranged according to your flights. If there is no time to visit the lagoon today, it can be added to another day. Your travel consultant will be able to arrange this for you.

There is plenty to see and do in Reykjavik if you have extra free time.

Once you reach your hotel in the capital, you may have time to explore before your northern lights tour and can check out the local architecture, public art, museums, and boutiques.

When evening falls, you will set out to hunt the aurora borealis on one of two unique adventures.

Firstly, you could embark on a bus tour that will take you out into the dark nature around the capital in any direction the sky is clear. You can marvel over the northern lights surrounded by spectacular landscapes.

Alternatively, you could head out from the harbor into the beautiful Faxafloi Bay. You will have minimal light pollution on the still waters, surrounded by the silhouettes of distant mountains and volcanoes, providing conditions for the perfect show.

If you don't see the northern lights on your first night, you may try again until you do.

After a successful northern lights hunting trip, you'll retire at your accommodation in Reykjavik.

Day 2 - The Golden Circle

On the second day of your winter vacation in Iceland, you will explore the sights of the Golden Circle sightseeing route. This route includes three of Iceland's most iconic attractions, and as you travel around them, you'll have exciting excursions to add to your day.

The first major attraction of the Golden Circle sightseeing route is the Thingvellir National Park, the first UNESCO World Heritage site of mainland Iceland.

Though it has received recognition due to its fascinating role in developing democracy, it is also a place of incredible natural beauty and geological wonder.

The Thingvellir National Park has dramatic ravines, sparkling springs, and abundant woodland directly between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

The second sight you will visit is Strokkur, an active geyser in the Geysir geothermal area. Guests can marvel every five to 10 minutes as it ejects water to heights that reach up to 131 feet (40 meters).

There is plenty to admire between eruptions in the geothermal valley, with many other bubbling hot springs and steaming vents.

Finally, you will visit one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Iceland, the Gullfoss waterfall. Thundering with such power that it barely freezes over in winter, it pours down two steps into a magnificent canyon along the Hvita River.

If you want to add an extra sense of adventure to today, you can take a snowmobiling tour from Gullfoss waterfall, which will take you flying across the gleaming slopes of Langjokull glacier.

Alternatively, you could take a countryside horseback ride through the beautiful nature of Southwest Iceland, tailored to both novices and experts.

Another choice is to embark on a winter snorkeling tour in the Silfra ravine in the Thingvellir National Park. Protected by a drysuit, you'll be led through a crystal clear spring, able to see deep through the vividly blue waters. Snorkeling participants need to be comfortable in the water and able to swim.

After a day of breathtaking sightseeing and unforgettable adventure, you'll return to your hotel in Reykjavik. If you still have the energy, seek out the city's dark spaces to hunt for the northern lights, or check out one of the acclaimed restaurants or bars.

Day 3 - South Iceland & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

You'll traverse the spectacular South Coast on the third day of your Iceland winter vacation. This journey will introduce you to incredible, ever-changing landscapes, glittering seascapes, and some of this island's most stunning attractions.

After being picked up in the morning, the first natural wonder to see is Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This narrow cascade pours off a great cliff facing the ocean before a vast cavern, allowing visitors to admire it from unique perspectives.

Continuing along the South Coast, you will get glimpses of the glaciers of Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull, which conceal notorious volcanoes.

The next major attraction, however, is a second waterfall, the much more powerful Skogafoss waterfall. Not only is this a spectacular natural feature, but it has fascinating associated folklore and is said to conceal the treasure chest of a giant.

Next, you will come to Reynisfjara beach. This stretch of coast is stunning and ominous, with its black volcanic sands and enormous waves, earning international recognition as one of the world's most beautiful non-tropical beaches.

The geology here is also breathtaking, with the great sea stacks of Reynisdrangar and the distant rock arch of Dyrholaey.

After stopping for refreshments at the nearby village of Vik, you'll continue eastward, and tongues of the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull Glacier, will dominate the scenery.

When stopping at the spectacular Skaftafell Nature Reserve, a paradise for hikers and photographers, you'll get close to one.

On your short trek here, you'll also see the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall, which tumbles down a cliff with hexagonal basalt columns.

Finally, you will reach Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, 'the Crown Jewel of Iceland's Nature.' This vast glacier lagoon is filled with icebergs of vivid blue and gleaming white, which tower as tall as multistorey buildings.

Guests are welcome to walk along the shoreline and marvel at them as they rotate, groan, and break apart on their long journey to the ocean.

When they finally make their way through a narrow channel from the lagoon to the sea, they wash onto the shores of the adjacent black sand shoreline, Diamond Beach. The contrasts between the ice and sand are mesmerizing, particularly in the evening light.

If you are lucky, you'll see the aurora borealis over one of these magnificent attractions before heading to your nearby countryside hotel.

Day 4 - Crystal Ice Cave under the Largest Glacier of Europe

On the penultimate day of your Iceland winter getaway, you will enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a crystal blue ice cave.

You will set out early with your guide to a remote area of Vatnajokull glacier, be dressed in all the necessary safety gear, and then follow them into one of the world’s most spectacular places.

Vatnajokull glacier is the largest glacier in Europe, covering approximately 10% of Iceland’s landmass. This massive glacier is known for its stunning ice formations, deep crevasses, and dramatic glacial landscapes.

The way light penetrates the caves, the vividness of the blues, and the spectacular textures and formations that nature has carved are so mesmerizing that they appear otherworldly. No two ice caves are the same as they melt and freeze with the passing seasons.

You will have plenty of time to explore and take photographs as your guide tells you how they were formed and other fascinating facts about the glaciers. You can also ask them questions if you’re curious about the cave’s structure.

After this unforgettable exploration, you’ll begin your return journey along the South Coast. Your journey will provide a new perspective on the fantastic sights you marveled over the day before, and you will make several stops to see some attractions under different conditions.

The sky will likely fall dark before you get back to the city, allowing you to have a chance to see the northern lights in the winter skies. Keep an eye out the window of your minibus in the hope of catching another display of the magnificent aurora borealis.

Once you get back to Reykjavik, you can either continue your hunt by heading to one of the many natural spaces in the city or enjoy the lively nightlife of the world’s northernmost capital.

The city comes to life at night with charming bars and pubs downtown.

Day 5 - Departure

Today is the final day of your winter vacation in Iceland. 

If you have a late departure, this is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Reykjavik. Iceland's culture is as fascinating as its nature is beautiful, and there are many things to do that will appeal to all guests.

The restaurants are internationally acclaimed, the museums are fascinating, the architecture is beautiful, and the streets are quirky and inviting. The city has even more charm during winter, becoming a festive wonderland.

When sharing your unforgettable trip moments on social media, capturing photos of Reykjavik's iconic cultural attractions is a must. The downtown area of Reykjavik is brimming with these popular sites.

One of the city's renowned landmarks is the Hallgrimskirkja church, considered the most beautiful in Iceland.

Its architectural style draws inspiration from the basalt lava flows found throughout Iceland's landscape, remarkably resembling the cliffs of the Svartifoss waterfall in the Vatnajokull National Park.

The church's tower soars to an impressive height of around 74.5 meters (244 feet) and offers an excellent vantage point for a panoramic view of the city and its surrounding landscapes.

The church boasts impressive features such as high ceilings, clean lines, and a minimalist design.

For those who have a later flight and choose to visit the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa today, you will finish your stay unwinding before heading to the airport.

The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is the perfect place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters while looking back on the incredible adventure you have just taken in the land of fire and ice.

Get to Keflavik International Airport early to drop off your luggage and check in for your flight.

What to bring

Good to know.

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon, and therefore cannot be guaranteed, but this itinerary is designed to maximize your chances to see them if the weather allows. Please be aware that your itinerary may have to be rearranged to better fit your arrival date and time.

Some optional activities might need a valid driver's license, or you might need to send additional information to your travel planner.

Those who opt to go snorkeling must be comfortable in the water and able to swim, and must present medical documents before snorkeling or diving.

It can happen, in the case of extreme weather, that an activity is canceled. If your chosen activity is canceled, we will assist you with rearranging or booking other activities when possible, and any potential price difference will be refunded to you.

Note that Icelandic roads and pavements can be slippery in the wintertime. We recommend you bring shoes with slip-resistant soles or ice-grip shoe covers. The covers can be purchased in most supermarkets and gas stations around the country.

Accommodation in Reykjavik

See our accommodation levels below and our preferred accommodation partners under each day in the daily itinerary. Super budget level accommodations will be arranged in hostel dorm beds. For budget and comfort levels, bookings for one person will be arranged in single rooms, and bookings for two or more people will share a twin/double or triple room(s). For quality level, odd number groups will always be allocated a single room. If you are travelling in a group, but prefer a single room, please make separate bookings. Teenagers and children will be arranged in the same room with parents. If additional room(s) is needed, additional costs will incur.

For multi-day guided tours, accommodation cannot be upgraded and the levels below do not apply. Guide to Iceland will provide you with the best available accommodation at the time of your booking from our preferred partners. If our preferred partners are fully booked at the time of your booking, we will find another suitable accommodation for you of similar level.

We always do our best to accommodate special requests, which may incur additional costs. Press choose a date to find availability.

Dormitory beds with shared bathrooms in guesthouses or hostels, such as HI Hostels. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.

Private rooms with shared bathroom in guesthouses or hostels such as Capital Inn Guesthouse. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.

Rooms with a private bathroom at three-star hotels such as Hótel Klettur, or quality guesthouses. Located in the city center or in close vicinity. Breakfast is included.

Rooms at four-star design hotels in the city center with a private bathroom at the absolute best locations downtown such as Hotel Alda. Breakfast is included.

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Akureyri: a northern star emerges in iceland.

It’s time to discover a lesser-known part of the country, with its winter wonderland appeal, says the newly installed head of Visit Iceland

The recently appointed head of Visit Iceland has praised the impact of easyJet’s new flight to Akureyri, in the north of the country. The airline introduced the flight last October, flying twice a week from Gatwick until the service was paused in March; it will return later this year from 29 October. 

“The north had a fab season after easyJet started flying there,” Oddny Arnarsdottir said. ‘It’s one to watch, with more infrastructure emerging.”

New hotels being constructed in the north include remote adventure resort Hofdi Lodge and a new 120-room hotel close to the Forest Lagoon geothermal spa, which opened in 2022.

Akureyri, which sits beside Eyjafjordur, the longest fjord in Iceland, is the primary settlement in the north. For a city break it offers quirky museums and galleries, cosy cafes and the world’s northernmost botanical garden. In the winter, it’s one of the best places in Iceland to see the northern lights, and enjoy adventures in the surrounding snow-covered wilderness.

“I was just there on a fam trip to visit the ski area, which has seven ski lifts and 23 slopes. The area caters for all abilities, from beginners to heli-skiing,” explained Arnarsdottir, floating Iceland’s appeal as a hidden gem for clients that ski.

With Icelandic low-cost carrier Play also providing a short programme of flights in the shoulder season between Cardiff and Keflavik, covering two Iceland v Wales football fixtures and the October half-term, Arnarsdottir said she hoped these new routes would give confidence to other airlines considering Iceland. 

“The US is our biggest summer market, but the UK is our biggest winter market, and it’s very important for us. We’re seeing growth in family travel, in longer stays, people coming for the northern lights and for our snow.” 

She added: “It’s very important we can spread visitors around our country, and children love being surrounded by open nature. Iceland gives them freedom, and the north builds on that winter wonderland theme.”

One of the ways the destination is helping disperse tourists is with a new Volcanic Way route. It’s a slow-travel approach – a drive stretching for 700km, with eight stages that take at least a day each to complete. Arnarsdottir explained: “This is a new travel route covering the Reykjanes peninsula and south Iceland in detail. Following this tour will take visitors off the beaten path to meet the locals, to learn their stories of living in close proximity to the volcanoes and how that builds their characters. It’s about regenerative tourism.”

With the recent intensification of volcanic activity in Iceland, Arnarsdottir sought to reassure the trade. “It’s normal for us but it’s very localised and it does not affect tourism as a whole. This activity, although it’s become more frequent in the last few months, is very different to 2010, when the subglacial eruption of Eyjafjallajokull caused an ash cloud, which grounded planes. We have many experts in the field, and their message is that travelling to Iceland is completely safe.”

Arnarsdottir, who has worked at Visit Iceland for the past seven years, has replaced Lina Petra Thorarinsdottir as head of the tourist board. She said her priority was to remain in good contact with stakeholders: “It’s very important to keep the trade close and informed,” she said. “I want to find ways to keep the conversation going and align our trade, marketing and PR pillars.”

The conversation will include events like this summer’s 25th anniversary of Reykjavik Pride. “We’d encourage booking for the event now,” she said. “We’re very proud of our human rights record, and the streets will be filled to celebrate that.”

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