What to Do in Iceland: 15 Unforgettable Experiences (2025 Travel Guide)

The magic of Iceland — where fire meets ice

There are few places on Earth where nature performs with such drama. Iceland is a place where you can walk between continents, soak in geothermal pools, explore volcanoes, and still make it back to Reykjavík in time for a world-class dinner.

If you’re wondering what to do in Iceland, here are the experiences that turn a trip into a lifelong memory — each one you can book directly with local experts at Icelandic Journey.

1. Explore the Golden Circle — Iceland’s iconic route

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous day tour, combining natural beauty and history in one scenic loop. You’ll stand at Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart, watch the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, and witness the geyser Strokkur erupt every few minutes.

Book a guided experience through our Golden Circle Tours — we handle the driving, storytelling, and hidden stops most visitors miss.

2. Chase the Northern Lights

From September to April, Iceland’s skies come alive with dancing green and purple lights. Seeing the Aurora Borealis is a dream for many travelers — and Iceland is one of the best places on Earth to do it.

Join a small-group Northern Lights Tour with local guides who track cloud cover and solar activity in real time. With luck, you’ll witness the sky come alive in a cosmic ballet above the lava fields.

3. Experience Reykjavík — Iceland’s colorful capital

Reykjavík might be small, but it’s packed with charm, culture, and creativity. Wander through rainbow-painted streets, visit Hallgrímskirkja church, and explore the city’s cozy cafés and design shops.

To taste the city’s flavor, join the Reykjavík Food Walk. It’s not just about food — it’s a guided stroll through Icelandic history and daily life, with plenty of delicious stops along the way.

4. See fire and lava up close

Few experiences match the thrill of seeing real lava flow before your eyes. At the Lava Show Reykjavík, molten rock is poured before you in a safe, theatrical environment — the only show of its kind in the world.

You can reserve your spot here: Lava Show Reykjavík. It’s a spectacular, educational experience for both adults and kids.

5. Fly over Iceland — without leaving Reykjavík

Short on time but craving a country-wide adventure? The FlyOver Iceland attraction uses immersive flight simulation technology to “fly” you over glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and fjords.

It’s a breathtaking indoor experience that’s perfect for families or when the weather turns wild.

6. Relax in geothermal waters

No visit to Iceland is complete without soaking in its natural hot springs. From the famous Blue Lagoon to hidden pools in the countryside, Iceland’s geothermal spas are the best way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Ask your guide or browse our day tours for excursions that include geothermal bathing — it’s the ultimate way to experience Iceland’s volcanic energy.

7. Journey along the South Coast

The South Coast of Iceland is a living postcard: black sand beaches, glacier-topped volcanoes, and waterfalls that roar straight out of myth. Stops often include Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and the haunting Reynisfjara beach.

Our South Coast Day Tours make it easy to explore safely and efficiently — perfect for photographers and first-time visitors alike.

8. Go whale watching from the harbor

Reykjavík’s old harbor is the launch point for unforgettable whale-watching tours. During summer, minke whales, humpbacks, and dolphins frequent the nearby bay.

Check our tours page for seasonal marine adventures.

9. Visit volcanic landscapes and lava fields

Iceland’s geology is the stage for its legends. From the Þríhnúkagígur volcano you can actually descend into, to the moss-covered Eldhraun lava field, exploring these areas feels like stepping onto another planet.

Many of our day tours include these remarkable stops with expert guides explaining how fire shaped this island.

10. Taste Icelandic culture and music

Beyond nature, Reykjavík’s nightlife and music culture are lively and welcoming. Visit bars featuring live local music, or join locals at seasonal festivals and art events. It’s a side of Iceland often missed by quick-stop travelers.

11. Capture epic landscapes on camera

Bring extra storage cards — Iceland is a paradise for photographers. Every road, waterfall, and mountain range offers a new perspective. Local guides on our Golden Circle Tours know the best photo stops and lighting conditions.

12. Explore Iceland’s myths and folklore

Elves, trolls, and hidden people — these stories still weave through Icelandic culture. Many locals embrace them playfully, and you’ll hear legends tied to waterfalls, stones, and mountains throughout your journey.

13. Sample local cuisine in Reykjavík

Don’t leave without tasting Icelandic lamb, fresh Arctic char, or rye bread baked in geothermal steam. The Reykjavík Food Walk is a delicious crash course in Icelandic flavors and traditions.

14. Combine adventure and comfort

One of Iceland’s greatest strengths is balance — you can go from a glacier hike to a candlelit dinner in the same day. Mix adrenaline and relaxation with our diverse tours, from volcano adventures to scenic spa escapes.

15. Let the landscape move you

Ultimately, Iceland isn’t about ticking boxes — it’s about awe. The light, the silence, the scale — they work together to remind you how small and lucky we are. Every traveler leaves with a favorite memory. Yours is waiting somewhere on the horizon.

FAQs

1. When is the best time to visit Iceland?
Summer (June–August) offers long days and easy travel. Winter (October–March) brings fewer crowds, lower light, and a chance to see the Northern Lights.

2. Can I see Iceland in one trip?
You can cover highlights in 4–7 days, but many visitors return to explore new regions each season.

3. Do I need to book tours in advance?
Yes, especially for the Golden Circle and Northern Lights — tours can sell out fast. Book early on icelandicjourney.is/tours.

4. Is Reykjavík worth spending a day or two?
Absolutely. It’s vibrant, walkable, and filled with hidden gems — from the FlyOver Iceland experience to the Lava Show Reykjavík.

5. How do I travel between attractions?
Day tours from Reykjavík are ideal — safe, convenient, and guided by locals who know the best times and routes.

Final thoughts

If you’re planning your Iceland adventure, start with what excites you most — the Northern Lights, the geysers, the food, or the pure wild landscapes. Then build your trip around that.
With Icelandic Journey, you’re not just sightseeing — you’re experiencing the real Iceland, crafted by locals who love to share it.