The top tourist attractions in Iceland — what’s worth seeing?

🕗 10 minutes | December 19, 2024 | Written by Klara Krysiak

Did you know that Iceland is the land of fire and ice, home to geysers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and… the Northern Lights? No wonder this island attracts both adventure seekers and travelers yearning for a deep connection with nature. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Iceland’s must-see attractions to make the most of your trip!

Flying to Iceland is now easier than ever. From Warsaw Chopin Airport, you can fly directly to Keflavík International Airport up to four times a week. The airport is located about 50 km from Reykjavik.

The best way to explore Iceland? Renting a car. This gives you the freedom to travel at your pace and fully experience the famous Ring Road – the highway that circles the island and takes you through Iceland’s top attractions. Many spots can also be discovered on foot, offering unforgettable experiences.

Iceland is known for its high prices, but… with a smart approach, you can see the most incredible places without breaking the bank! Here are a few tips:

• Travel timing: Visit Iceland during the cheapest months, typically winter, when there are fewer tourists.
• Transportation: Travel in a group to split the cost of car rentals, or use local public transport.
• Accommodation: Choose hostels or campsites instead of pricey hotels, and be sure to check out tips for finding the best deals.
• Food: Skip restaurants and cook your meals. Local supermarkets like Bonus offer surprisingly affordable prices!

Did you know that Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and the smallest capital city in Europe? But don’t let its size fool you – Reykjavik is packed with iconic attractions that draw visitors from all over the world!

One of the city’s highlights is Hallgrímskirkja, one of Reykjavik’s most recognizable landmarks. This 74.5-meter-tall church features unique architecture inspired by the basalt columns that define Iceland’s rugged landscapes.

One spot you can’t miss is Harpa—a modern concert hall and conference center in Reykjavik. Its glass-paneled facade shimmers beautifully in daylight and at night. Plus, it’s the perfect starting point for a scenic walk along Iceland’s southwestern coastline.

To wrap up your day, take a stroll through Reykjavik’s Old Town, where you’ll find charming narrow streets lined with colorful houses, cozy cafés, and art galleries. If you want shopping, head to Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping street!

Did you know that Iceland’s untamed nature is one of its greatest highlights? Below, you’ll find the top places you absolutely need to add to your bucket list.

The Golden Circle is a scenic route near Reykjavik and one of Iceland’s most famous travel circuits. It covers three main attractions:

• Haukadalur Valley, home to geysers like the Great Geysir and the smaller, more active Strokkur, which erupts every 5–10 minutes, shooting water up to 20 meters high.
• Gullfoss Waterfall, a spectacular two-tiered cascade plunging into a 70-meter-deep canyon.
• Þingvellir National Park, a site of immense historical importance—it’s where Iceland’s first parliament, the Alþingi, was founded, making it the world’s oldest existing parliament. The park also lies at the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it a geological wonder.

Each of Iceland’s waterfalls is unique:

• Seljalandsfoss is one of the few waterfalls in the world you can walk behind.
• Skogafoss impresses with its powerful 60-meter drop.
• Dettifoss is Europe’s most powerful waterfall, spanning 100 meters in width with a thunderous 44-meter drop.
• Hraunfossar is a series of small cascades flowing from beneath a lava field.
• Goðafoss (Waterfall of the Gods) has a stunning horseshoe shape and a fascinating history—legend has it that in the year 1000, pagan statues were thrown into the falls to mark Iceland’s official transition to Christianity.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve is part of Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland’s largest protected area. It features an incredibly diverse landscape, including green valleys, black volcanic sands, and massive glaciers.

One of its most famous landmarks is Svartifoss Waterfall, surrounded by striking black basalt columns that have inspired architectural designs—most notably, Reykjavik’s Hallgrímskirkja church. Skaftafell is also the starting point for several hiking trails, including routes leading onto Vatnajökull Glacier.

Covering 8% of Iceland’s landmass, Vatnajökull National Park is home to the vast Vatnajökull Glacier. Visitors can explore glacier tongues, take guided ice-caving tours, and admire jaw-dropping viewpoints like Sjónarnípa in Skaftafell.

Located in northern Iceland, Ásbyrgi Canyon stands out for its horseshoe-shaped formation. According to Norse mythology, the canyon was created when Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse, left an imprint of his hoof on the earth.

The canyon stretches 3.5 km in length and 1 km in width, with cliffs towering up to 100 meters high. Inside, you’ll find a lush birch forest, a rare sight in Iceland.

Rising 463 meters, Kirkjufell is an iconic peak on Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula, near the town of Grundarfjörður. You might recognize it from Game of Thrones! Nearby, you’ll find Kirkjufellsfoss, a picturesque waterfall, and during winter, this is a prime location to witness the Northern Lights.

Located in southwestern Iceland, the Reykjanes Peninsula is an area of intense geothermal activity. The landscape is dotted with lava fields, hot springs, mud pools, and fumaroles.

Top attractions include:

• The Blue Lagoon – Iceland’s world-famous geothermal spa.
• The Bridge Between Continents – a symbolic footbridge at Sandvík that connects the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
• Reykjanesviti Lighthouse – Iceland’s oldest lighthouse, serving as a navigation landmark since 1878.

In 2021, the Reykjanes Peninsula was recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark due to its unique geological significance.

Dyrhólaey, located near Vík í Mýrdal, is a dramatic volcanic headland formed over 100,000 years ago. Its name translates to “door hole island”, referring to the massive rock arch that dominates the landscape. This scenic spot offers panoramic views of black sand beaches, the southern coastline, and Mýrdalsjökull Glacier.

Did you know? From May to June, Dyrhólaey becomes a nesting ground for puffins! The peninsula is also home to a lighthouse that serves as a key navigational point for sailors.

Iceland, located at the meeting point of tectonic plates, is a true paradise for those fascinated by geothermal wonders. Any Iceland itinerary should include visits to its many hot springs, geysers, and thermal pools, where volcanic activity provides not just relaxation, but also an up-close encounter with the island’s raw, untamed nature.

Hverir is one of the most surreal places in Iceland. This geothermal field in the northeast of the country stuns visitors with bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and the intense smell of sulfur. While you can’t bathe here, walking through this otherworldly, almost Martian landscape is an unforgettable experience.

Did you know that the word “geyser” originates from Geysir in Iceland? This is a must-visit destination on Iceland’s tourist map. While Geysir itself rarely erupts these days, its neighbor, Strokkur, shoots boiling water up to 30 meters high every few minutes, drawing crowds of mesmerized visitors.

The Lake Mývatn area is another spectacular geothermal hotspot, where steaming fissures, volcanic craters, and bubbling hot springs create stunning landscapes. One of the highlights? The Mývatn Nature Baths—a quieter, less crowded alternative to the famous Blue Lagoon.

Although the Blue Lagoon is located just outside Reykjavik, it’s undoubtedly one of Iceland’s most famous attractions. Its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters are known for their skin-healing properties and deeply relaxing effects.

If you’re staying in Reykjavik, be sure to check out local thermal pools like Laugardalslaug and Vesturbæjarlaug, where locals and travelers alike unwind in naturally heated waters.

Iceland isn’t just the land of fire—it’s also the land of ice. Its majestic glaciers and stunning ice caves offer some of the most unforgettable experiences in the country. If you want to truly appreciate Iceland’s raw and untamed beauty, these glacier-related attractions should definitely be on your list.

Fjallsárlón may be smaller than Jökulsárlón, but it’s just as stunning. With floating icebergs and an atmosphere of absolute stillness, this hidden gem is one of Iceland’s most magical places.

Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, hides mesmerizing ice caves that change shape every year. Taking a guided ice cave tour is a unique opportunity to see crystal-blue formations and experience the otherworldly beauty of this frozen wonderland—all in a safe and thrilling way.

Jökulsárlón is one of Iceland’s most photogenic spots, with massive icebergs drifting through deep blue waters. The contrast between the ice, the black volcanic beaches, and the glacier reflections makes this place a must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Bonus tip: You can even go whale-watching here, as the surrounding waters attract these magnificent creatures!

Iceland’s volcanoes aren’t just evidence of the island’s geological power—they’re also stunningly beautiful. From massive lava fields to steaming craters, these natural wonders have shaped Iceland’s landscapes and tell stories of the Earth’s fiery past.

One of Iceland’s most famous volcanoes, Eyjafjallajökull, gained global attention in 2010, when its eruption disrupted air travel across Europe.

Located in southern Iceland, this glacier-capped volcano is surrounded by dramatic ice formations, rushing rivers, and vast lava fields. Several hiking trails offer a chance to explore the area’s stunning scenery while learning about Iceland’s volcanic history.

The Krafla volcanic area is a dream for geology lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here, the active volcano Leirhnjúkur is surrounded by black lava fields and steaming fumaroles, creating an almost post-apocalyptic landscape.

The last eruption in the 1970s and 80s, known as the Krafla Fires, transformed the entire area into a surreal expanse of scorched earth, bubbling mud pools, and colorful geothermal vents.

Marked hiking trails allow visitors to explore these otherworldly lava fields, making this one of the most unique hikes in Iceland.

Located in southern Iceland, Kerið Crater Lake is well-known for its striking turquoise water, which beautifully contrasts with the red, moss-covered volcanic slopes surrounding it.

Formed around 3,000 years ago, Kerið is 170 meters wide and 55 meters deep, making it one of the most visually stunning volcanic lakes in the country.

Iceland’s beaches aren’t for sunbathing, but they offer some of the most dramatic scenery in the world. With black sand, towering cliffs, and powerful waves, these shores showcase the untamed beauty of the North Atlantic.

Did you know that Reynisfjara is one of the unique beaches in the world? With jet-black sand and towering basalt columns, it looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Located near Vík í Mýrdal, Reynisfjara attracts both tourists and photographers looking to capture its otherworldly beauty. The beach’s hexagonal basalt formations, which resemble massive organ pipes, were shaped by volcanic activity and centuries of ocean erosion.

Offshore, you’ll spot the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, which, according to Icelandic legend, are trolls turned to stone.

⚠️ Important: Reynisfjara is also one of the most dangerous beaches in Iceland due to sudden, powerful waves. Always keep a safe distance from the shoreline!

Located near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is where chunks of glacial ice wash ashore on black volcanic sand, sparkling like giant diamonds in the sunlight.

This beach is a dream location for photographers, offering stunning contrasts between the crystal-clear ice and dark sand.

Walking along Diamond Beach, you’ll hear the waves crashing, feel the icy chill of the air, and see new ice formations every day, making it a constantly evolving landscape.

Iceland is an absolute paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering countless opportunities to observe birds and marine creatures in their natural habitats. Whether it’s puffins nesting on towering cliffs or whale-watching adventures, every region of Iceland brings a unique experience, letting you immerse yourself in the island’s rich and diverse fauna.

Located in the northwesternmost part of Iceland, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a breathtakingly untouched wilderness that can only be accessed by boat or on foot. This remote sanctuary is home to arctic foxes, one of the region’s most famous inhabitants, as well as countless bird species, including puffins and black-legged kittiwakes.

The steep cliffs in Hornstrandir serve as one of Iceland’s most significant bird nesting sites, offering incredible birdwatching opportunities. The region is also known for its majestic mountains, deep fjords, and vast green meadows, creating a landscape that feels like the edge of the world.

If you love trekking, Hornstrandir is an absolute dream, featuring trails that lead through some of Iceland’s most dramatic and isolated scenery.

Often called the whale-watching capital of Iceland, Húsavík is a small town in northern Iceland that attracts nature lovers from all over the world. The town offers unforgettable boat tours, where you can see majestic whales in their natural habitat.

During these excursions, visitors have a chance to spot various species, including:

• Minke whales,
• Humpback whales,
• Orcas,
• Dolphins,
• And, of course, puffins flying low over the water.

What makes Húsavík truly special is its welcoming atmosphere and the expert guides who provide fascinating insights into Iceland’s marine wildlife. If you want to connect with nature in an unforgettable way, this is the place to be!

Icelandic cuisine is as unique as its landscapes, built around fresh, local ingredients and centuries-old culinary traditions.

One dish you must try is skyr—a smooth, creamy dairy product similar to yogurt but thicker and packed with protein. Another classic is Icelandic lamb, often roasted or slow-cooked, known for its distinctive flavor, thanks to the free-roaming sheep that graze on Iceland’s untouched pastures.

Seafood & local specialties

Iceland is a seafood lover’s paradise. The country’s pristine waters provide an abundance of cod, salmon, and trout, which are staples of the local diet.

For the adventurous foodie, there’s hákarl—fermented shark, famous for its strong smell and bold taste. This notorious dish is a traditional part of Icelandic culinary heritage, but it’s definitely an acquired taste!

Iceland also boasts some unusual baking traditions, such as rúgbrauð—a dense, slightly sweet rye bread that’s baked underground using geothermal heat. This bread pairs perfectly with butter, smoked fish, or even lamb pâté.

And when it comes to desserts, Icelanders keep it simple—think skyr with wild berries or rhubarb for a naturally sweet treat.Do tego dochodzą chleby pieczone w ziemi na gorących źródłach, takie jak rúgbrauð – słodki, ciemny chleb żytni, który idealnie komponuje się z masłem i rybami. Islandczycy cenią również prostotę w deserach, serwując na przykład skyr z jagodami lub rabarbarem.