Iceland
In Iceland, you can experience a whole host of different natural phenomena you cannot find anywhere else. It is Iceland’s high volcanic activity and the fact that the island is in the path of the Gulf Stream that make this extraordinary island unique. The first two men who settled on the island were Ingolfur and Hjörleifur. The two arrived at the island in 874. His slaves killed Hjörleifur while Ingolfur and his wife remained. They settled in Reykjavik, which is now the island's largest city and capital.
Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the northernmost capital of the world, a sovereign state, and has become a very popular destination for adventurous tourists in recent decades. Reykjavik is located in the southwestern part of Iceland. There are about 123,300 people in the capital and 216,940 in the metropolitan area. Reykjavik is Iceland's cultural, economic and political focal point and a very important part of the history of the country.
Reykjavik
Hallgrimskirkja Church
This futuristic building in the centre of the city can be seen even from a far distance. The Hallgrimskirkja church reflects the basalt columns in the southern part of the country. The tower is around 73 m high and offers an amazing view over the whole city. The church got its name from Hallgrímur Pétursson, a clergyman living in the 17th centrury. A statue of Leif Erikson stands in the plaza, honoring the explorer who is believed to have reached the American continent roughly 500 years before Christopher Columbus.
Harpa
The newly built (2011) concert hall Harpa is situated close to the sea and is an architectural highlight. It hosts the national opera and national orchestra. Due to its illuminated honey combs frontage of glass and steel, the outside of Harpa never looks the same. But also the inside is worth a visit. Olafur Eliasson is the designer of this fascinating building.
Höfdi
Close to the harbour, you can find the beautiful art nouveau villa Höfdi. Nowadays, it is used for public purposes. But in 1986, Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev met here for the first international disarmament meeting
Kolarportid
Every weekend, a popular flea market takes place in Tryggvagata at the back side of the harbor house (Hafnarhús). Both, locals and tourists come together to browse through antiques, books, souvenirs and different kinds of curiosities and enjoy the diversified culinary offers
Laugardalur
Anyone looking to stay active while in Reykjavik should visit Laugardalur. The area is home to the city´s largest geothermal outdoor pool, which is well worth a visit. Nearby the botanical garden and Reykjavik Park & Zoo are also popular spots for locals to relax and unwind.
Tjörnin
Throughout the year, locals gather at Tjornin, the city pond located near the Parliament building. Although it may appear to be a quiet and peaceful spot, it is home to an impressive variety of birdlife. From here, visitors can also views of reykjavik´s City Hall, the university, and the cathedral.
Museums in Reykjavik
The Icelandic National Museum highlights the country´s cultural heritage and history and is especially worthwhile for anyone interested in the Viking era. Complementing it, the Saga Museum presents 17 key historical events through vivid and engaging displays. Another interresting, but also amusing, museum is the Icelandic Phallological Museum. The National Gallery of Iceland is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing works by Icelandic artists such as Asgrimur Jonsson and Jon Stefansson. The Arbaejarsafn open-air museum, located just outside the city center, offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Icelandic rural life in earlier times. It also features a church with a calssic turf roof made of sod.
Parliament
Austurvollur is a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists. A statue of Jon Sigurdsson, who played a major role in Icelandic´s 19th-century independence movement, stands in the square. Nearby is the basalt building of the Icelandic Parliament, constructed in 1881. Compared to many other countries, its modest size and minimal security measures are quite unusual. Reykjavik´s Lutheran cathedral is also located close to the parliament building.
South-west & Reykjavik
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland´s most popular attractions. Located in Grindavik, just a short drive from the airport, the geothermal spa is surrounded by dramatic lava fields and supplied by the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant. The milky-blue, 30°C water is rich in minerals ans silica, which are believed to have beneficial effects on the skin. Visitors can even enjoy drinks while relaxing in the water. SInce the Blue Lagoon is highly popular, it is recommended to book tickets in advance.
Hafnarfjördur
In the past, Hafnafjördur has been an important harbor city and is only 10km south of Reykjavik. You can either enjoy your day in Hafnarfjördur while watching the fishermen bringing in their daily catch or standing on the Hamarinn cliffs and enjoying the view. In the past years, Hafnafjördur has become an artist colony.
Krisuvik
The geothermal area of Krisuvik, located in the southern part of the reykjanes Peninsula, is another fascinating natural attraction. Formed by volcanic and seismic activity, the area features numerous boiling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and solfataras spread across the landscpae. Particularly striking are the vibrant colors of th eground, created by mineral deposits around the geithermal vents.
Golden Circle
From a historcial perspective, Thingvellir National Park is one of Iceland´s most significant sites. In 1930, the Icelandic parliament, the Altthingi, was established here. Surrounded by striking rock formations, political decisions were made, laws were proclaimed, and even marriages were conducted. Laws were traditionally read aloud at Logberg, a site now marked by a flaf. The national park is also home to Thingvallavatn, Iceland´s largest natural lake. Another highlight is the view over Almannagja, where the effects of the drifting North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are clearly visible. the valley, which is more than 7 km wide, is truly breathtaking. Near Thingvallakirkja church and along the banks of the Oxara river, you can also see the beautiful white summer residence of the president. Since 2004, Thingvellir has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Thingvellir Nationalpark
From a historical point of view, Thingvellir National Park is one of the most meaningful sights in Iceland. In 930, the Islandic parlament Althing was established. Amongst impressive rock scenery, political decisions have been made, law was spoken and even marriages have been contracted. The laws have been read aloud at Lögberg and nowadays this place is marked with a flag. In the national park you can also find Iceland´s biggest lake, Thingvallarvatn. Another highlight of the park is a view over the Almannagja. Here, you can see the impact of the American and European plates drifting apart. The more than 7 km wide valley is just breathtaking. Right next to the church Thingvallakirkja and at the bank of the river Öxará, you can see the gorgeous white summer residence of the president. Since 2004, Thingvellir is declared UNESCO world heritage.
Gullfoss Waterfall
The highlight of the Golden Circle for most Iceland-visitors is the waterfall Gullfoss, the golden waterfall. It is just a few driving minutes away from the area of geysers. The river Hvítá empties in two mighty cascades and falls 32 meters deep. Due to the immense movement of water you are always surrounded by a light spray mist. When the sun is shining you might even see a rainbow.
Hveragerdi
Hveragerdi is known as THE green house city of Iceland. Due to boundlessness of geothermal energy in this area, the majority of the Icelandic vegetable production takes place here. Salads, cucumbers, tomatoes and even bananas and ornamental plants are cultivated. Steam rising from the ground can be seen everywhere in this city. Even the bread is baked under the ground - give the dark and malty tasting Hverabrauð a try. Ingólfur Arnarson is supposed to be buried in the close-by village Ingólfsfjall.
Area of Geysers
The spectacular geysers are a must-see. The eponym of this natural spectacle, the big Geysir, is practically inactive since its last eruption in 2000. Before then, he exploded 100 m high fountains. Nowadays, the visitors rather concentrate on the highly active geyser Strokkur which explodes every 5 to 10 minutes with water columns as high as 20 meters. In the whole area, plenty smaller and bigger boiling water puddles can be found. If you want to learn more about geysers, pay a visit to the close-by visitor centre.
The South Coast
Dyrhólaey
Kap Dyrhólaey with its impressive archway is located western of Vik. The rocks of Kap Dyrhólaey are 120 m high and are a paradise for eiders, arctic terns, puffins and fulmars. During breeding time in May and June, there is only limited access to the cape. At the peak of the cape, you can find a lighthouse and a mark of the most Southern point of Iceland.
Skógar and Skogafoss
At the foot of Eyjafjallajökull, which erupted in 2010, the sedate place Skógar is located. One of the most popular museums of the country is Skógasafn, an open-air and local museum. In a vivid and authentic way, the life in South-Iceland is displayed. To the West of the small village the waterfall Skogafoss is situated. Here, the glacier river Fimmvörðuháls falls 60m deep. Special tip: approach the impressive waterfall from below.
Thorsmörk
The glacial valley Thorsmörk is located between Eyjafjallajökull and Myrdalsjökull. The countless rivers, which dominate the scenery, offer a once-in-a-lifetime-view. The river Krossá divides the area. The Northern part convinces by its rich vegetation, while the Southern part, also called Godaland, is much rougher and convinces by its remarkable rock formations. Plenty hiking trails cross the valley. Some of them lead to the highland Landmannalaugar while others lead via Fimmvörduhals pass to Skogar. If you want to drive to and in Thorsmörk a 4x4-vehical is mandatory. During summer time, tourists can take the local bus to the glacier valley.
Westman Islands
The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are located approximately 10km off the Islandic coast. In total, they count 15 islands and countless cliffs. The Westman Islands are the main breeding spot for puffins. In 1963, the youngest island Surtsey was formed by volcanic activity. 10 years later, all of the sudden a 1,5 km long cleft gaped above the city centre and was followed by a volcano eruption. Immediately, the inhabitants of the main island Heimaey evacuated. Around 400 houses were buried under the lava masses. If you are interested in receiving more information of this event, you must visit the volcano museum Eldheimar.
Vik
The most Southern city of Iceland is definitely worth a visit. Not only can you see black lava beaches but also countless bird colonies and a gorgeous view on Myrdalsjökull. The three rock needles of Reynisdrangar are a popular photo scene. According to legend, they are three petrified trolls.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is one of the most fascinating waterfalls in Iceland and is also located in the South. Have you ever had the chance to walk behind a waterfall? Here you do, but do not forget your rain gear if you want to walk behind the 60m high waterfall – you might get a little wet.
East Iceland
East Fjords
The so called East Fjords of Iceland are rather narrow and are located between Borgarfjördur Eystri and Berufsfjördur. Driving along the scenic roads and picturesque fishing villages is highly recommended but also hiking along remote mountain paths is not of lesser interest.
Vatnajökull National Park
Europe´s biggest national park measures 14.200 square kilometres, which represent around one-eigths of the landmass of Iceland. Also Skaftafell National Park and the former national park Jökulsargljufur belong to Vatnajökull National Park.
Skaftafell
Since 2008, Skaftafell National Park belongs to the bigger Vatnajökull National Park. A visit is highly recommended. It is a perfect place to not only do glacier hikes but also to see the much diversified landscape of woods and moor.
Glacier Lagoon Jökulsarlon
One of the most spectacular sights of Iceland is the glacier lagoon Jökulsarlon. There, you can see big icebergs of the glacier Breidamerkurjökull swimming on the lake. The boat tour pays off as you not only get amazing photo scenes of the over 1000 year old ice but also get to see some spots of the James Bond movie “Die another day” which was filmed here.
North Iceland
Akureyri
Akureyri is not only one of the most beautiful places in Iceland, but also the capital of the North. The town relies economically on its harbor, located on Eyjafjordur, as well as on the University of Akureyri, both of which are among its most important economic on the University of Akureyri, both of which are among its most important economic pillars. The boatnical garden features all local plant species along with more than 700 foreign species. The city´s landmark is Akureyrarkirkja, which can be seen from far away. It was designed by the same architect who also designed Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik. Akureyri also offers many museums, such as the art museum. However, it is equally worthwhile to simply take a stroll through the older part of town, where you can find the childhood home of Jon Sveinsson and Laxdalshus, the city´s oldest building.
Ásbyrgi
The canyon is also often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Iceland. At the bottom of the canyon you will find a rarity – a mixed forest. With a length of 3.5 km and a wideth of 1 km the canyon offers an impressive view. The form of the canyon is also really remarkable – it looks like a horseshoe. According to legend, it originates from Odins eight-legged horse.
Dettifoss
Dettifoss is Europe´s most powerful waterfall, with around 193 cubic meters of water plunging every second into a cascade approximately 45 meters deep. The immense water masses create a striking spray mist and a remarkable roaring sound.
Godafoss
Godafoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland. The cascade measures only 12 m, but its horseshoe-shaped canyon makes this waterfall special. The name Godafoss was given by the law speaker of the Althing-Meetings in the year 1000. Thankful for the Icelanders accepting Christianity as their state religion, he threw the images of the pagan gods into the water masses at exactly this spot.
Glaumbaer
The turf houses in Glaumbaer display another popular photo scene. In the Skagafjördur museum of Popular Art, you can observe the typical turf construction of the houses. 9 out of 13 buildings are connected by a 20 m long aisle.
Hverarönd
Hverarönd is the name of the high-temperature area at the mountain pass Namaskard. The area is characterized by plenty of boiling mud pots and hizzing hot springs. The mineral-bearing steam and muds leave a beautiful play of colours on the ground. A visit is highly recommended, but you have to promise to never leave the path.
Husavik
Husavik is the Center of whale watching in Northern Iceland. There is a 99% percent chance to see humpback whales, minke whales or dolphins. The small but beautiful city is located right at the amazing Skjalfandi-bay.
Dimmuborgir
The Bizarre rock formations of Dimmuborgir are referred to as the „dark castles“. You can find them North of lake Myvatn. Supposedly, these are the remains of steam ducts, which have been formed in a lake of lava. Plenty of hiking trails can be found thoughhought Dimmuborgir.
Myvatn
Lake Myvatn literally means "Midge Lake", named after the large swarms of tiny gnats that appear in the area during summer. These insects thrive because the lake is very shallow - at its deepest point, it is only about 5 meters deep - allowing the water to warm up quickly. The lake was formed by volcanic activity and lava flows, which blocked the natural drainage of the water. Today, Myvatn is known for its unique volcanic landscape, countless small islands, and rich birdlife. The area is especially popular among birdwatchers, as it is home to around 16 species of ducks, making it one of the most important bird habitats in Europe.
Skutusstadir
At the southside-bank of the lake, numerous pseudocrater string together. These round rises emerged from lava overflowing the wetland. Beneath the lava, steam gathered and got through the surface and led to explosions. This event caused its today´s shape.
West fjords
Vigur
Vigur is a small island East of Isafjördur. It only counts five inhabitants but countless birds during summer. You can observe puffins, arctic terns and eider in their natural environment. The only windmill still standing in Iceland can be found on this small island.
Hrafnseyri
Hrafnseyri is an insignificant old farm with a meaningful history. The Icelander Jon Sigurdsson who was fighting for Iceland´s independence was born here. Nowadays, Hrafnseyri displays a memorial with a full-scale replica of the farm, a remembrance church and a museum
Dynjandi Waterfall
One of the most beautiful and impressive waterfalls is located in the West Fjords – the Dynjandi waterfall (engl. the thunder). It consists of six different waterfalls and is fan-shaped. With its height of 100m and its width of 60m it is a breathtaking natural beauty.
Hornstrandir
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is considered one of the most beautiful and untouched regions in Iceland. Its unspoiled landscapes ranges from field of giant angelica and colorful grasy slopes to bright wildflowers blooming during the short Arctic summer. The abandoned houses, driftwood dcattered along the beaches, and the endless expanse og the sea all add to the area´s unique atmosphere. Hornstranmdir is also a paradise for hikers, offering countless opportunities for long and scenic trekking tours through remote and dramatic landscapes.
Latrabjarg Bird Cliffs
The Latrabjarg bird cliffs are among the most impressive natural landmarks in Iceland. They mark the westernmost point of Iceland and are also one of the westernmost points in Europe. Stretching for about 14 kilometers, the cliffs rise to heights of up 441 meters and are among the oldest rock formations in Iceland, dating back around 13-14 million years. During the summer months, countless seabirds nest on the cliffs, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and fulmars. Latrabjarg is therefore consodered one of the largest seabird colonies in the North Atlantic and a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
West Iceland
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
The Snaefellsnes peninsula is also called „Iceland en miniature“ due to its scenic diversity. You get to see not only dramatic rock formations but also an imposing glacier landscape and impressive lava fields.
Arnarstapi
Arnarstapi is a small fishing village right in front of the mountain Stapafell. Here, you will get to see countless caves and remarkable basalt columns in which bird colonies nest. But it is also popular for being the village of poets and sagas. A remote attraction is the Gatklettur, a rock with a hole in the middle through which water is splashing during stormy days.
Snaefellsjökull
This 1.410 m high glacier is supposed to be one of the most beautiful and regular volcanoes of the country. But only the peak of the volcano is partly glaciated. In case of good weather you have an amazing view over Hellissandur and Breidafjördur-bay; maybe you can even spot the Westfjords. This glacier is also very attractive in literature – it is pictured as the entrance to the “centre of the Earth” in Jules Verne eponymous novel.
Reykholt
This small little piece of Earth counts towards the most important historical and cultural places of Iceland. The village has commited itself to the investigation and intervention of the life work of Snorri Sturluson – the most powerful and popular man of medieval Iceland. He authored countless writings focusing on history and literature.
Deildartunguhver
In the Western part of Iceland, you will find the biggest hot water spring of Iceland which produces 180 liter of 100° hot water per second. Additionally, a real rarity which cannot be found somewhere else in Iceland is located here – a special kind of deer fern.
Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
The lava waterfalls of Hraunfossar create a remarkable natural spectacle. Crystal-clear water flows from beneath a lava field and streams through countless small cascades into the Hvita River. The contrast between the dark lava rocks and the vivid blue water creates an especially stunning displays of colors.
Just upstream lies Barnafoss, which is equally impressive. here, the river rushes through a narrow and rocky gorge with great force. the waterfall´s name, meaning "Children´s Falls", comes from an old Icelandic legend. According to the story, two children from a nearby farm fell into the fast-flowing river and drowned while crossing a natural stone bridge.