Reykjaviks Saga Museum is the only museum in Iceland that pulls no punches, presenting history and the tales of earliest Icelandic settlers through eerie silicon models made all the more intense by audible thuds from axes and hair-raising (pre-recorded) screams. Its truly like walking on another planet! Make sure to try some traditional Icelandic fare like skyr (a type of yogurt) and a hearty bowl of seafood soup with cod roe. Conveniently located just 45km from the main haunts out in Reykjavk, the heated river that that passes through the Reykjadalur Valley is one of the islands most exciting features. Best nearby. Places to See in Iceland: The Westfjords 5. Speaking of campervans, we found one of the best ways to experience Iceland was with our own set of wheels. While there are a plethora of exciting ways to explore Icelands stunning and diverse natural environments (bus, horseback, snowmobiling, helicopter trips, or hiking, to name a few), very few options are as versatile and enjoyable as the good ol quad bike. Snowmobile tours are top-rated and make a great way to get out of the car. While primary a natural attraction, the center also boasts interactive exhibits that illustrate how volcanoes and earthquakes act. Theres no excuse: viewing the Aurora Borealis is an essential northern hemisphere activity, and very few places can compete with the dazzling light show on display in Iceland. Its product, Kaldi, proved a hit, and in the years that followed, a growing variety of craft beers appeared on the local market. 9. . The colors inside rhnkaggur are sure enough to dazzle any visitor. Either way, after the strenuous walk, theres nothing better than a soothing bath in the nearby geothermal hot springs. Yes, this place is no secret, and many people come here every day to photograph Kirkjufellsfoss with Mount Kirkjufell in the background. This article may contain affiliate links. As if adrenaline addicts didnt already have enough activities to choose from, tour companies offer a range of exhilarating snowmobile adventures all over the island. Youll want to bring a packable rain jacket or a good hiking jacket if you decide to stand behind Seljalandsfoss, or you will get soaked. Gullfoss Waterfall 12,220 Waterfalls 2022 3. Many visitors will venture right out from Reykjavik, but one of the best places to spot whales is off the coast of Northern Iceland. Horses are an integral facet of Icelandic culture and a great activity to explore Icelands landscape. Arguably the most Instagrammed natural spa on the planet (although Budapest might have something to say about that), the geothermal hot spring that is the Blue Lagoon welcomes close to 1.3 million visitors per annum. Seeing this beach is one of those fun things to do in Iceland you cant miss. After all, is there any better way to explore a new culture than through it's local cuisine? Hot tip: if you consider yourself a birdwatcher, make a beeline for the high cliffs, home to millions of flocking seabirds. If you could picture a waterfall in your head, it would be Skogafoss. Irish monks (called Papar in Icelandic) were thought to have created them before or around the time the first settlers arrived in the country, though the theory lacks sufficient archaeological evidence. Copyright 2023 TourScanner | All rights reserved. Stroll Along Kneza Mihaila Street. Iceland revels in bringing history back to life with numerous living museums that invite visitors to step back in time. There is plenty of challenging yet magnificent hikes to stretch your legs. The lagoon has formed over time from the massive glacier above; as the glacier melts, cool glacier water and icebergs mix with the ocean. One of these houses is the centerpiece of the museum Eldheimar. Watching these curious creatures sunbathe in their natural habitat is delightful. 24. The highlight of the trip, of course, is going paragliding youll pull on a harness and soar high in what is arguably Mother Natures most beautiful nation. While the Blue Lagoon might get the bulk of the nations lagoon-flavored attention, Jkulsrln Glacier should not be overlooked; the waters might be far too icy to swim in, but the unobstructed views and pure nature is nothing short of extraordinary. Top 10 Things to Do in Iceland | Traveling in Iceland A campervan can minimize your accommodation expenses; it pays off for our trip. While youre in the area grabbing a meaty snack, why not catch a show at the Harpa Concert Halls or see whats on in the adjoining Conference Centre? Landmannalaugar, found over in the gorgeous Fjallabak Nature Reserve, is quickly causing a stir among tourist circles: Its caramel-colored peaks juxtaposed with pure blue sky deliver one of the most jaw-dropping views in the area. Kirkjufellsfoss is a great point of interest in Iceland. 15 Things to Avoid as a Tourist in Iceland - WanderWisdom Rafting down the powerful Icelandic waters be it along the West Glacial River or the Hvt river in the Gullfoss Canyon promises an experience as thrilling and it is beautiful. The beauty and rarity of the area can be appreciated even if youre not a professional diver, thanks to a plethora of beginner snorkeling tours available too. We personally love snowboarding, but we werent there at the right time of year. Outside of Reykjavk, Nielsen Restaurant in Egilsstair deserves a special mention for its loyalty to East Icelandic food producers highlighting local fish, meat, vegetables, grain and dairy and game, including reindeer. From long stretches of pink sand to tiny secluded coves, Bermuda's beaches are world-famous. Belgrade Tours & Activities. What makes the waterfall significant is its historical importance. Seljalandsfoss, one of the main attractions on the South Coast, stands at a height of around 60 meters and is absolutely breathtaking. By Jet777337. Lake Mvatn, Hsavk,sbyrgi Canyon, andDettifoss Waterfall are the main stops, but you can also add Goafoss Waterfall,Dark Castles, and Eider Falls to the route. Waterfalls. Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling - Meet on Location Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling - Meet on location #27 of 304 Outdoor Activities in Reykjavik, Northern Lights Midnight Adventure from Reykjavk. Geothermal pools are a paradise for those looking to escape the cold (and in Iceland, true to its name, theres no shortage of frosty days). Youll have to battle other visitors for a sacred parking spot nearby to get this iconic photo. Theres also a staircase to the side of Skogafoss leading to the top, where you can overlook the area. Reykjavik is the main transportation hub of the country, and Keflavik Airport is the perfect place to start your trip. Situated on the banks of Lake Laugarvatn, Laugarvatn Fontana pipes in natural steam for its steam bath. 4. Given that beer was formerly banned in Iceland for 74 years, the locals sure do appreciate a good party. Renting a camper van in Iceland is a nature lovers dream vacation. For centuries, the Icelandic Turf House has been a symbol of what it means to be an Icelander. We perform checks on reviews Clear all filters 2022 1. As the only major whale exhibit in Iceland, Hsavk Whale Museum dives into a history that spans centuries. Fewer tourists pay attention to Vatnsberinn (The Water Carrier) by smundur Sveinsson in the heart of downtown or tlaginn (The Outlaw) by Einar Jnsson on the corner of Suurgata and Hringbraut works by two of Iceland's most famous sculptors. Seljalandsfoss. Its a welcomed change from the array of black sand beaches around the country, and paints a clear picture of the vibrant variety of color offered on the main island. If you love chasing waterfalls, one of the best things you can do in Iceland is grab acamera and stop at everyone you see to snap a photo. booking glacier hike/boat - Iceland Forum - Tripadvisor Do you have a favorite? Iceland is a mountainous island nation located between Europe and North America in the middle of the North Atlantic. Visit Lake Myvatn in North Iceland 8. (We saw two!). Before we dig into the best things to do in Iceland, lets discuss where exactly Iceland is. The Top 10 Things to Do Near Noen, Mechelen - Tripadvisor They all will have at least one main pool for swimming and two different hot tubs for relaxing. Its not the expansive landscape that will steal your breath away, but when you enter the ice caves within the glacier. Wear thick wool socks and avoid cotton or linen. Do yourself a favor: save yourself the time of planning and prioritizing. 2-Hour ATV Riding Trip with Pickup from Reykjavik Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Icelandic Horseback Riding Including Pick Up from #35 of 304 Outdoor Activities in Reykjavik. In a country with comparatively high booze prices, Reykjavk's nightlife is unmatched. See women dye wool by boiling herbs or have a witch tell your fortune with ancient runes. Beauty attracts you, but diversity makes you never want to leave. Backpacking EUROPE: How Much Will it Cost? Its almost impossible to get an approximate number as glaciers melt and form small waterfalls that feed rivers and streams. Those staying in Reykjavik offer boat tours from the harborthat take you out to sea and away from city lights. Right across the street fromJkulsrln Glacier Lagoon is Diamond Beach, so be sure not to miss it. This lagoon in Southeastern Iceland is a highlight of any trip to Iceland and definitely one of the best things to do in Iceland. Private Day Tour from Reykjavik, South Coast. Download the Reykjavk Art Walk app to learn more about this interesting side of Iceland's capital. Top Attractions in Iceland See all 2022 1. The Mvatn Nature Baths are a stunning set of geothermally heated pools and steam baths, found in the colorful, volcanic Lake Myvatn area. Gullfoss is the most popular waterfall in Iceland, and its also one of the largest. Plus, you can have some utterly unique adventures, like walking (or diving) between two continents! Featuring sports events, natural phenomena and more, these are 20 amazing trips to consider taking in 2023. See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Naples, Italy. They arent just for locals, though; foreigners are welcome too. Depending on your budget, consider combining a dive with a trip to the Blue Lagoon too. Find ski resorts near Reykjavk, safjrur, Neskaupstaur, Akureyri and elsewhere in the north, with ski lifts and slopes of varying levels, as well as tracks for cross-country skiing. When wondering what to do in Iceland, consider this must-do. Theres no shortage of epic things to do in mystical, magical Iceland. Explore the fjords of West Iceland 7. Going to the top ofHallgrmskirkja Church is the best thing to do in Reykjavik, Iceland. Icelandic horses are small compared to other horses you may be used to, but they have a distinctive gait style that makes riding them exceptionally smooth. The geothermal area is easily accessible as its right off the ring road by Lake Mvatn. Golden Circle Afternoon and Northern Lights Tour Landmannalaugar by Super Jeep from Reykjavik, #6 of 47 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Reykjavik, #23 of 304 Outdoor Activities in Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon & Reykjavk Sightseeing - PRIVATE TOUR, Icelandic food tasting & city walk - PRIVATE TOUR, #49 of 304 Outdoor Activities in Reykjavik. The "Viking ship" sculpture Slfar by Jn Gunnar rnason is a given. Find your favorites, but among pools worth visiting are lftaneslaug for its wave pool, Sundlaug Akureyrar for its thrilling waterslides, Selrlaug for being next to a salmon river, and Hofsslaug for the amazing view of Drangey Island. If youre an adventure lover or are transfixed by the beauty of Mother Nature, the collection of things to do in Iceland will astound you. Its not hard to see how this place got the nickname Iceland in a nutshell. You might bake bread over an open fire, listen to a story of ancient heroes and heroines, or swing a sword in an epic fight. Easily one of the most natural impressive features in Iceland (and thats not without stiff competition), at the postcard-worthy Vatnajkull, tourists can take to skies and experience this spell-bounding glacier in all its beauty from above. Perlan. Thanks to its undisputed serenity, the Dyrhlaey Peninsula is considered one of the most scenic places north of the equator. Stretching 55 miles into the Atlantic Ocean along the nations western coast, the Snfellsnes Peninsula is overflowing with an astoundingly diverse canvas of natural beauty. The milky blue geothermal seawater in the middle of a lava field is still perfect for jetlag recovery it helps that it's 20 minutes from the airport but more geothermal baths and spas have popped up in recent years, attracting visitors for their elegant architecture, stunning settings, and unique bathing experiences. A mesmerizing area of Iceland, the Reynisdrangar formations are overflowing with impressive rock cliffs, all naturally created over time from eroding basalt. While the dancing aurora can be viewed year-round, chances are higher during the winter, as the most vivid displays occur in both dark and cold surroundings. Note: Iceland has some strict hot spring etiquette. All rights reserved. Explore Reykjavik 4. It's possible to hitch a ride with a snowmobile up the mountain. Dubbed The Jewel of the Westfjords, the best way to experience this wondrous landscape is with a hike through the area, one which plateaus at the base of this a 100-meter-tall natural treasure. Admire the Beauty of the architecture of Hotel Moskva. 12 Fun & Best Things to Do in Minori, Italy - viatravelers.com Its known as the land of Fire and Ice for its extreme beauty. Find inspiration from the Icelandic Saga and Heritage Association. Solheimajkull glacier is a majestic work of Mother Nature that has attracted the attention of thousands of tourists for years, with non-stop views of stunning coastline and powerful waterfalls from sunrise to sunset. From hunting practices used by our ancestors all the way up until todays eco-friendly fishing methods, the museum does a wonderful job at showcasing the history and evolutions of whales, their relationships with locals, and wider Icelandic traditions. At Grmsey island, people can dive and snorkel with puffins right on the Arctic Circle. Housed in what once operated as a hot water tank, this underrated attraction was redesigned into a pearl-shaped museum in 1991 and has been wowing visitors ever since. Why not tick off two of Icelands premier attractions the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon at once? As for experiences below the surface, Strtan DiveCenter takes experienced divers on tours to a unique geothermal chimney on the ocean floor of Eyjafjrur. Dettifoss is said to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Remember, they are never guaranteed, and youll need to be in a remote location away from city lights to see them. Kirkjufell, the Snfellsjkull Volcano dominating the skyline, and plenty more. Found within the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National park, the Silfra Fissure is world-famous among diving enthusiasts. If you do plan on visiting, be sure to keep a safe distance. Iceland for 7 Nights - June 2023 12:40 pm. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Not too far away youll find the strip of black sand known as Diamond Beach juxtaposed with the turquoise ice shards, its a photographers paradise. ), as well as easy access to nearby museums and eateries. Head out on a Jeep tour from Vik, and explore an amazing formation: a volcano encased in a glacier that also has its own ice cave! Maritime in East Iceland 11. Cascading above the mighty Hvt river, the Gullfoss waterfall has earned its stripes as one of the top 10 waterfalls in the world (according to World of Waterfalls) need we say more? There is a viewing platform to take in the whole landscape, but its also possible to walk around and have fun around the vents. The Icelandic horse is one of a kind. With a pre-arranged tour, youll travel in comfort toward Icelands rugged southern coast as your guide describes each countrys unique geology along the way, discovering top natural attractions including the Skgafoss waterfall, Slheimajkull Glacier and Mrdalsjkul. A quaint town perched by a lake in the Golden circle, Laugarvatn Fontana has always been a top tourist attraction for one particular reason: its calming hot springs. Home to more than just flora, the areas total hunting ban has made the adorable arctic foxes quite inquisitive around camping sites, creating opportunities for unforgettable experiences. Its an utterly unique and profound experience! Massive waterfalls are not uncommon around the country, but few can compete with this ones power; its said that theres no stronger cascade in all of Europe! Hallgrimskirkja 22,817 Churches & Cathedrals Miborg By Africancrab The church soars over the Icelandic capital Reykjavik, its scale is also heightened by the vertical rows of descending 2022 2. It is a place where Icelanders get active, relax, and socialize. There are great spots around the whole country to get out and hike! Unlike most of the manmade activities on this list, this place isnt in Reykjavik its found in the heart of Vk, a small village home to volcanoes, glaciers, and black sand beaches. Ask a question. The best food we had in Reykjavik was at Matarkjallarinn, which serves modern Icelandic cuisine. 17. You can hike up to either side of the waterfall and feel the ground tremble beneath your feet. This is just one of the many adventures that you can undertake with a Reykjavik City Card. 1 within 5 kms. The Settlement Exhibition, known in Icelandic as Landnmssningin, is a modern interactive museum built upon the ruins of an old Viking house. This fleeting, crystalized world of wonder can only be explored with experienced guides. Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers. Enter dates Filters The Northeast waterfall is still spectacular as its 30m wide and 12m high.

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