There’s nowhere quite like Iceland. Shaped by fire and ice, this rugged island is yours to explore. Think otherworldly landscapes, hidden gems and quiet moments in remote places.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up 10 of the most unique experiences in Iceland. Our local experts have chosen each one to make your visit unforgettable. Read on for insider tips and insights from Hanna, one of our Reykjavík-based Travel Consultants.
Whether you're joining an Iceland northern lights tour or hiking across a glacier, these adventures reveal the best of the Land of Fire and Ice.
1. Chase the northern lights
Travel in winter and you could spot the northern lights dancing across Iceland’s skies. These green, purple, red and pink lights ripple across the horizon when solar particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere. It’s a rare chance to watch the sky come alive – something you’ll only experience close to the world’s magnetic poles.
Iceland sits in the heart of the “northern lights belt” – a zone between 65° and 72° north where the aurora appears most often. The best time to see them is between September and March, especially around the equinoxes when solar activity tends to peak.
For the darkest skies, head to the countryside, away from streetlights. The south coast, Westfjords, and North Iceland all have low levels of light pollution, which is perfect for spotting the northern lights.
2. Join a guided glacier hike
Iceland stands out for its incredible diversity of landscapes – it’s unlike any other destination in the world. The natural, raw, and remote beauty truly captivates visitors.
- Hanna, Iceland Travel Consultant
For an unforgettable way to experience Iceland’s epic landscapes, why not join a guided glacier hike?
Imagine crossing blue-tinged ice, listening to the crunch beneath your feet, and taking in views of vast ice caps with an expert guide leading the way. And, if you visit in winter, your guide might even take you into sparkling ice caves.
What’s more, unlike high-altitude glaciers in the Alps or Himalayas, Iceland’s glaciers are much closer to sea level, making them more easily accessible.
Two incredible glaciers to add to your wish list are Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, and Mýrdalsjökull, near the village of Vík. These glaciers are constantly changing, meaning no two visits are the same. On a guided tour, you’ll get up close to glaciers and hear insights from local guides who know these landscapes best.
Good to know: Hiking on glaciers requires specialist knowledge and equipment, so we always recommend exploring them with a guide. All of Nordic Visitor’s glacier hiking excursions are led by qualified guides and come with all the equipment you’ll need.
- Find out what else you can do on a winter tour of Iceland
3. Soak in natural hot springs and local swimming pools
Taking a dip in geothermally heated waters is part of everyday life in Iceland, so don’t forget to throw in some swimwear when you’re packing.
You can unwind at popular spots like the Blue Lagoon near Reykjavík or choose lesser-known gems like the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir.
Others are Sky Lagoon, Hvammsvík Hot Springs, Forest Lagoon, and Vök Baths. Some sit by the sea, while others are hidden in hills or forests. Wherever you go, you’ll find each one feels different.
If you’re after an even more authentic experience, head to a local swimming pool. There are over 100 to choose from. These outdoor pools are geothermally heated and open all year. Icelanders of all ages go there regularly to swim, chat and unwind.
Icelandic swimming pools are more than just a way to relax – they’re a window into Icelandic culture. Locals use these pools as social hubs, catching up with friends and neighbours while enjoying the warm water, no matter the weather.
- Hanna, Iceland Travel Consultant
Plus, Iceland’s pool culture has been nominated for UNESCO recognition. Visiting one is a simple way to support local communities and travel more sustainably.
- Related: Nordic spa and wellness traditions
4. Hike through volcanic landscapes
Hiking in Iceland brings you close to landscapes shaped by volcanoes and glaciers. Trails lead you through moss-covered lava fields, black sand deserts, and narrow valleys carved by rivers and ice.
One of the most rewarding yet underrated experiences in Iceland is grabbing a picnic and simply following a trail up a hill. Once at the top, find a spot to sit down, rest, and take it all in – the sweeping views, the pure silence, the distant calls of birds, and the sound of lambs calling for their mothers in the valleys below.
- Hanna, Iceland Travel Consultant
If you’re looking for a route near Reykjavík, head to Reykjadalur, known as the “steam valley”. There’s a 6-kilometre (3.7-mile) hike here that’ll take you past bubbling hot springs. At the end, you can even soak in a naturally heated river, so don’t forget your swimsuit.
For something slightly more adventurous, try the Skógafoss and Waterfall Way hike. This scenic 16-kilometre (10-mile) trail starts beside the spectacular Skógafoss waterfall. After climbing a staircase for stunning views, you’ll follow the Skógá River past more than 20 waterfalls.
No matter where you go in Iceland, remember to stay on marked paths, take your time and follow the Leave No Trace principles to help protect nature.
- Related: Best hikes in Iceland
5. Spot puffins and other wildlife
Head to places like the Westman Islands and Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords for your best chance of spotting puffins. These sea birds nest here in huge numbers from May to August, alongside other species like razorbills, guillemots and kittiwakes.
Iceland’s wildlife shifts with the seasons, so there’s always something to look for. For instance, the puffins will be gone by winter, but you could see Arctic foxes in their bright white coats. And make your way to the coast, where seals often rest on black sand beaches.
Join a whale-watching tour from Húsavík or Reykjavík, and you might glimpse orcas, humpbacks, or dolphins. Many tour operators also support marine research, so your trip helps protect these animals and their habitats.
- Discover local wildlife on an Iceland guided small group tour
- Related: Iceland’s animals and wildlife – Your guide
6. Drive the Ring Road
The Ring Road (Route 1) loops around Iceland for 1,322 kilometres (821 miles), connecting some of the country’s most iconic sights. A self-drive tour along this route lets you explore the country’s national parks, coastal towns and glacier lagoons in as little as 1 week.
The Ring Road gives you the freedom to explore Iceland on your terms. I always suggest taking your time and enjoying the longer daylight hours of summer to visit popular spots outside peak times.
- Hanna, Iceland Travel Consultant
You’ll see a lot of Iceland just by sticking to the Ring Road, but we also recommend taking detours to places like the Snæfellsnes peninsula. This region packs a lot into a small area, including lava fields, black sand beaches, fishing villages and the glacier-topped Snæfellsjökull volcano.
- Experience the Ring Road on these Iceland self-drive tours
- Related: Driving Iceland’s Ring Road – All you need to know
7. Explore the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a popular sightseeing route in South Iceland that brings you to 3 of the country’s most famous natural attractions.
First, you’ll visit Þingvellir National Park. Here, you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and see the rift valley that marks their boundary.
Next, you’ll see the hot springs and erupting geysers of the Haukadalur valley. While the original Geysir is mostly dormant, nearby Strokkur erupts every 5–10 minutes, shooting hot water up to 30 metres (98 feet) into the air.
Finally, you’ll witness the Gullfoss waterfall roar into a canyon carved by glacial meltwater. On sunny days, you might catch rainbows forming in the mist.
This is a must-see for many people exploring Iceland. So we suggest timing your visit for early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when there are fewer visitors.
8. Visit Iceland’s national parks
Iceland’s 3 national parks are home to some of the country’s most dramatic scenery.
Explore them for yourself, and you could walk through Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the country’s first parliament met in 930 BCE. Discover Vatnajökull, home to Europe’s largest glacier. And visit Snæfellsjökull, where lava fields meet coastal cliffs.
You’ll find hiking trails and striking geology in each of these parks. Plus, entry is free, though some facilities or parking areas may charge a small fee.
9. Ride an Icelandic horse
Icelandic horses are small, strong, and known for their smooth gait, which is called the tölt. This unique breed has lived on the island for over 1,000 years.
The Icelandic horse is a distinctive and gentle breed, well-suited to riders of all experience levels. It’s a quiet, immersive way to connect with nature and local traditions.
- Hanna, Iceland Travel Consultant
You can saddle up at family-run farms across Iceland. Choose a short riding tour close to Reykjavík, or try a longer trek through valleys and lava fields.
Horse riding offers a rare glimpse of rural life. As you ride, you’ll likely pass sheep farms, turf houses and volcanic landscapes that reveal Iceland’s geological and cultural past.
- Related: Horse riding in Iceland – Family fun
10. Watch icebergs drift across a glacier lagoon
Head for Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon in southeast Iceland, and you could witness towering icebergs break from the Vatnajökull glacier and float towards the sea. Jökulsárlón is the country’s most well-known glacier lagoon, but drive 15 minutes south, and you’ll arrive at Fjallsárlón. This smaller lagoon is just as beautiful and is often quieter than its neighbour.
Whichever lagoon you visit, allow plenty of time to soak up the scenery from the shore. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, book a RIB boat tour that lets you get even closer to the glittering icebergs.
Also nearby is Fellsfjara, known as Diamond Beach, where smaller chunks of ice wash up on the black sand beach.
Good to know: When you’re exploring Iceland’s coastline, please bear in mind that the ocean can be powerful and unpredictable. If you’re walking along a beach, it’s essential to keep a safe distance from the water. Strong tides and sudden sneaker waves can catch people off guard.
Discover Iceland with Nordic Visitor
These are just some of the best experiences in Iceland, but there’s plenty more to explore. Whether you're dreaming of glacier hiking or hot spring bathing, our local travel experts are here to help.
When you book with Nordic Visitor, our Reykjavík-based travel experts will plan your route, organise your accommodation, and arrange local transport. You’ll get a hand-marked map, a personalised itinerary, and support every step of the way.
Choose from these winter northern lights tours, or visit Iceland in summer. Whether you’re after a self-drive, small group or privately guided tour, we’ll help make your time in the Land of Fire and Ice unforgettable.
Get in touch to start planning an amazing escape to Iceland.
