Galen NgIf you’ve grown tired of the conventional tourist megacities or are searching for that ultimate traveller’s experience, then this Nordic enigma will definitely be a destination to savour. While we’re at it, let’s clear up that misperception that Iceland is nothing but a barren glacier freezing in sub-zero arctic temperatures. There are quite a handful of otherworldly Iceland attractions that you won’t find anywhere else!
It’s plastered with otherworldly natural wonders! From spewing geysers and dramatic mountain ranges to crashing waterfalls and even the celestial Northern Lights, Iceland is home to all. Here are 18 dazzling places to visit in Iceland that you will definitely fall in love with.
Also read: 12 Airbnbs in Iceland for When You Finally Make That Trip
Most unique Iceland attractions you have to see IRL
1. Skaftafell Ice Cave
Buried deep within the Vatnajökull National Park, the Skaftafell Ice Caves are formed each winter as glacial rivers retract and the water freezes. These ethereal caves provide unparalleled views as the shimmering light reflects hues of blue onto the cave walls.
2. Blue Lagoon
One of the most popular Iceland attractions is the Blue Lagoon. This man-made geothermal spa allows you to wade in the calm water against a beautiful backdrop of ice and snow. Definitely an amazing photo destination.
3. Skógafoss
This thundering waterfall summons an enthralling rainbow-yielding mist at its base as the water crashes down. Skógafoss is so alluring that it can compete with Gullfoss for the title of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfall.
4. Landmannalaugar
This sprawling highland is home to some of Iceland’s most colourful landscapes. With a natural geothermal pool and a mind-blowing kaleidoscope of spectacular colours, Landmannalaugar is an explorer’s dream!
5. Fjaðrárgljúfur
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a canyon stretching almost two kilometres long and 100m deep. One can enjoy a mesmerising hike along its sheer walls to grasp the sheer beauty of this gargantuan attraction.
6. Gullfoss Waterfall
The Gullfoss is fed by the Langjökul, Iceland’s second-biggest glacier. Located in the Golden Circle, many flock to these “Golden Falls” to revel in its mighty crashing waterfall.
7. Aurora Borealis
Literally out of this world, this mesmerising spectacle is an attraction that never ceases to amaze. September till mid-April has the darkest nights to see Northern Lights illuminate at its brightest.
Also read: How to Capture The Northern Lights in Iceland
8. Kirkjufell
Iceland’s town of Grundarfjörður is proudest of its Kirkjufell (otherwise called Church Mountain). This lonely hill stands sentinel over its surrounding beaches. It is also Iceland’s most photographed hill — although, some would refer to it as a mountain.
9. Víti Crater
This mineral-rich lake sinks in the central volcano of the Dyngjufjöll Mountains. The vast barren mass that surrounds the striking blue water makes Víti Crater look like a setting straight out of Mars.
10. Jökulsárlón
Head over to Jökulsárlón for a spectacularly frosty scenery. Impressive chunks of icebergs float calmly, as though harmless pebbles, through this glacial lake. You can even charter a boat and cruise through these icy chess pieces and take in the magnificent sights of this winter wonderland.
11. Reykjavík
The city of Reykjavík is as picturesque as it gets. Expect cosy houses with exteriors painted in striking shades like maroon red and turquoise aligned in neat rows along the tranquil streets. Despite its modest population of 130,000 people, the capital oozes with character and colour that makes it another of the must-see Iceland attractions.
12. Seljalandsfoss
This picturesque waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, is no doubt one of the most breathtaking Iceland attractions. It is even possible to walk behind it to capture the water cascading mightily from the Seljaland river above.
13. Hallgrímskirkja
For architectural wonders, look no further than Hallgrímskirkja. This towering icon stands as the biggest church and one of the tallest structures in the country. Take photos with its peculiar design or get a lift up to its summit for unrivalled panoramic views of Reykjavík.
14. Húsavík
Húsavík is an idyllic seaside spot that is fabled to have been the first Viking settlement in Iceland. The town is blanketed by the cover of smooth green mountains and often welcomes passing whales. Truly one of the most stunning things to see in Iceland!
15. Westfjords
For the best-kept secret among Iceland attractions, Westfjords is the way to go. Only 14% of tourists visit each year because it is inaccessible in most parts. But for the bold who dare, this hidden gem will wow them with dramatic landscapes and captivating wildlife.
16. Geysir
Get ready to be dazzled by the Geysir, otherwise known as The Great Geysir. Marvel in the beauty of nature as hot water spews out and upward with ferocious force to heights of up to 30m above ground. These enigmatic sulphuric wonders are truly captivating natural phenomena that make it worth adding to your list of places to visit in Iceland.
17. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Image Credit: Moyan Brenn
Iceland is home to some of the world’s most beautiful nature-scapes and its beaches are no exception. Case in point: Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach (aka Reynisdrangar). We recommend coming here during sunset, as the sun paints the nearby hills in golden glory; truly a sight to behold.
18. Solheimasandur Plane Wreck
The Solheimasandur Plane Wreck is akin to a post-apocalyptic Hollywood film setting. Off the town of Vik lies the weathered US Navy Douglas DC-3 Airplane that crash-landed onto the black-sand shores. This has since become one of the world’s most dramatic photography spots and must-visit Iceland attractions.
Also read: 13 Important Things to Know Before Visiting Iceland
So, which of these amazing Iceland attractions would you want to see first? Or better yet, have you seen any of these up close already? Go on and share all about it in the comments!
