Iceland is a breathtaking destination with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique geological features. Here’s a list of the 10 best places to visit in Iceland, with full details on activities, experiences, and approximate costs in GBP.
Table of Contents
1. Reykjavik
- Overview: The capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik, is famous for its vibrant architecture, lively culture and ancient monuments. Highlights include Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Old Harbor.
- Things to Do: Visit museums, Go for a seeing-whale tour, or visit cafes and shops.
- Costs:
- Accommodation: £80–£240 per night (hotel/hostel).
- Food: £12–£35 per meal.
- Activities: Whale-watching (£70–£100), museum entry (£12).
- Transport: Public buses within Reykjavik (£3 per trip).
2. The Blue Lagoon
- Overview: Iceland’s most famous attraction is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa set in black lava fields, where mineral-rich waters can be found for bathing.
- Things to Do: Spend your days in the hot pools, get a mud mask, or book a spa session.
- Costs:
- Entrance: £55–£120 (various packages available).
- Food: On-site cafes (£16–£40).
- Accommodation: Nearby hotels range from £160–£320 per night.
3. The Golden Circle (Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss)
- Overview: Golden Circle, a renowned sightseeing route that passes through Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
- Things to Do: Trek through the rift at Þingvellir, visit bursting geysers, and visit the breathtaking Gullfoss Waterfall.
- Costs:
- Self-drive tour: Car rental (£65–£120 per day).
- Guided tours: £45–£80.
- Food: Packed lunch or local eateries (£8–£16).
4. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Overview: The glacier lagoon where giant icebergs drift off to the ocean making it a fairytale scene. There is Diamond Beach just a short distance away, where tiny chunks of ice fall onto the beach.
- Things to Do: You can enjoy a boat cruise on the lagoon or simply stroll down Diamond Beach.
- Costs:
- Boat tours: £50–£85.
- Food: Simple meals at nearby cafes (£8–£16).
- Accommodation: Nearby hotels (£80–£200 per night).
5. Vatnajökull National Park
- Overview: The world’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull National Park is filled with glacial ice caves, volcanoes and waterfalls such as Svartifoss.
- Things to Do: Discover the glacier, visit Skaftafell, and tour the ice caves.
- Costs:
- Ice cave tours: £95–£160.
- Glacier hikes: £80–£120.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses or hotels (£80–£160 per night).
6. Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls
- Overview: Two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss is famous for its cave behind the water curtain, and Skógafoss for its 60-metre drop and rainbows.
- Things to Do: Go behind Seljalandsfoss, walk around Skógafoss, visit nearby walking paths.
- Costs:
- Free entry to both waterfalls.
- Parking: £4–£8.
- Accommodation nearby: £60–£160 per night.
7. Landmannalaugar
- Overview: Landmannalaugar, with its colorful rhyolite peaks and hot springs, is a hiking destination in the highlands of Iceland.
- Things to Do: Travel along the famous Laugavegur Trail, and visit natural hot springs, and lava fields.
- Costs:
- Accommodation: Highland huts or camping (£50–£120 per night).
- Food: Simple meals at mountain huts (£8–£24).
- Bus tours to Landmannalaugar: £65–£100.
8. Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Overview: Known as “Iceland in Miniature”, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula has everything from cliffs and lava fields and black-sand beaches to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier.
- Things to Do: You can go to KirkjufellMountain, visit the lava caves, and the Snæfellsjökull Glacier.
- Costs:
- Car rental: £65–£120 per day.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses or hotels (£80–£160 per night).
- Cave tours: £40–£80.
9. The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
- Overview: Iceland is a fantastic place to watch the Northern Lights, especially from September to April. Dark clear skies boost the likelihood of witnessing this natural wonder.
- Things to Do: Book a Northern Lights tour or drive to the far corners for a better view.
- Costs:
- Guided tours: £40–£100.
- Car rental for self-driving: £65–£120 per day.
- Warm clothing: Ensure you are prepared for cold nights.
10. Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Valley
- Overview: A beautiful valley between glaciers, Þórsmörk is the perfect hiking destination with its green valleys, glaciers and volcanic scenery.
- Things to Do: Visit the world-famous Fimmvörðuháls path, wander the valley, and marvel at glacier views.
- Costs:
- Accommodation: Highland huts (£50–£80 per night).
- Food: Simple meals at mountain huts (£8–£16).
- Bus transport to Þórsmörk: £65–£100.
General Budgeting Tips:
- Flights: Prices from the UK to Iceland range from £70–£250 per person, depending on the time of year.
- Car Rental: £65–£120 per day for a standard vehicle.
- Petrol Costs: Around £1.60–£2.00 per litre.
- Food: Iceland can be expensive, with meals at restaurants ranging from £12–£40. Shopping for groceries or eating at cafés can reduce expenses.
- Accommodation: Cheaper hostels and guesthouses can cost as little as £50 per night, while hotels in the heart of town can cost £120–£250 per night.
This should help you plan your trip and budget for exploring Iceland’s unique and stunning natural attractions!
