When we talk about dreams, what is the first place that comes to your mind? Is it encircled with stunning landscapes, pristine lakes, divine mountain peaks, and ancient castles? If yes, then Iceland travel should be a part of your bucket list. This magnificent island is lush with inexplicable natural beauty, mind boggling travel routes, and thrilling adventures, which alone makes it worth a visit.
Now that it is on your bucket list, you must know that there are an extravagant number of places to visit in Iceland. And we have saved you quite a lot of time by rounding off the top 10 Iceland tourist attractions for your first ever trip!
So, let’s not waste any more time and find out the best places to visit in Iceland on your first trip.
Vatnajökull Glacier: Remember the place where Elsa and her sister (from the Disney movie Frozen) lived? Well, if you do then this is one place that will leave you awestruck. Vatnajökull Glacier is a world made of ice. It is best known for its mystical caves that are constantly shifting their existence from one place to another. Thus, it is advisable for the first-time visitors to hire a guide before entering this winter wonderland.
This maze-like formation is Europe’s largest glacier and also covers more than 8% of the entire area of the entire country. Soak yourself in the adventurous vibe of this place and do not forget to click pictures!
Best time to visit: November to March (during this time, the ice caves are stable and that makes your tour better)
Reykjavik: One of the most popular Iceland tourist places, Reykjavik takes the credit for its whale watching tours. Remember Keiko from Free Willy? Well, the killer whale was captured in a camera in a marine site close to Reykjavik.
There is a 90% chance that you will get to spot the giant creature during a single tour in the middle of the ocean. The ride to whale watching usually starts from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour and lasts for about an hour or so.
Once you see the magnificent creatures, do not forget to capture them in your cameras. Pssst… Here's a tip for you, go for the ringside seat to witness the amazing phenomenon.
This place is also flushed with quaint cafes, vibrant bars, and stunning restaurants. Once you return from the tour, make sure to stop by at some of them and enjoy local food. You can also witness the splendid Northern Lights from this place.
Best time to visit: June to September. However, you can go whale watching at any time of the year.
Blue Lagoon Hot Spring: There are numerous hot springs across Iceland but none of them are as spectacular as the Blue Lagoon. Settled amid the fairy tale setting of silica mud and jet-black volcanic desert rocks, Blue Lagoon is a must-visit place for first time visitors.
Being the most popular spa of Iceland, Blue Lagoon encompasses warm and healing water full of minerals of the ocean, silica mud, steam stacks, and soothing vibes.
People can book their own premium packages at the time of visit to the spa. There are various five-star hotels standing in the vicinity that also provide special spa packages at the Lagoon.
Most common among these is the Retreat Hotel Spa, which provides a complete luxury experience to people—private pool, cold well, steam room, personalized morning yoga class, water therapies and messages, etc.
Best time to visit: All year round.
Grundarfjordur: The fishing village of Grundarfjordur will make you fall in love at the first sight! The serene houses, summer folk festivals, and the striking view of Mt. Kirkjufell standing amid the awe-inspiring waterfalls and meandering streams are enough reasons for you to stop by at this little hamlet.
Another reason to visit Grundarfjordur is the Eyrbyggja Heritage Centre, which regularly exhibits the oceanic history of the town in a beautiful way. Grundarfjordur is located at a distance of 3 hours from Reykjavik and outlines the north coast of Snaefellsnes peninsula.
The peninsula has been nicknamed as ‘Iceland in miniature’ and is home to the glorious Snæfellsjökull glacier. This twin-peaked glacier is resplendently surrounded by lava fields and three coastlines as it sits on the peninsular tip of a volcano. Thus, this adds as another reason for visiting the beautiful village.
Best time to visit: All year round.
Lake Myvatn: Located close to Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, Lake Myvatn is known for its mystical formation that comprises a treasure of gems and flora of moss balls. Nature lovers find themselves at ease near and around this lake.
One can also spot both indigenous and exotic species of birds during summer season as they form various formations in a single flight above the lake area. Another thing that makes this lake quite exclusive is its incredible geology. When looked from a distance, one will notice that the lake is outlined by pseudo volcanic craters that make the water body look quite mysterious.
If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, then you must know that one of the most famous love scenes in the series was shot in this area. Grjótagjá hot spring is another major attraction found near this lake. It is carefully hidden in a cave in the lava field of Dimmuborgir. The field is so intense and sensational that it has come to be known as the Black Fortress. There are many other places to visit in this area. You will require a whole day to cover them all.
Best time to visit: May to October
Now that you know the best places to visit in Iceland to make your first trip memorable and one-of-a-kind, it’s about time that you booked your tickets to have an adventure of a lifetime!
Iceland is filled with some spectacular scenic routes, breathtaking lagoons, and mesmerizing flora and fauna that must be witnessed once in your life.
Blob - . As you imagine the beauty of Iceland, feel the birds flying above in the blue-sky azure with golden light of a setting sun, misty valleys, and extraordinary countryside - and these are only a few of the many stupefying places of this splendorous land.
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