From the minute I landed in Iceland, I was awestruck by the unique landscape, genteel atmosphere, and kind-hearted locals. Miles of mountains morph into ancient lava fields and crystal blue glacier lagoons, while shaggy sheep dot the grassy fields.
This island isn’t always on the top of traveller’s list when visiting Europe, but thanks to several stopover flights between Europe and North America there are now more and more visitors discovering Iceland.
Whether your visit is a quick stopover, a photography road trip, or a Northern Lights seeking adventure, Iceland won’t disappoint.
TIME FRAME?
You only need one to two days to see Reykjavik as there isn’t much to do in the capital. However, the countryside is breathtakingly beautiful and I highly recommend hiring a car or an RV and explore the island for a few days or weeks.
The Golden Circle Road is the most popular driving route: it hits the closest popular landmarks outside the capital and only takes a few hours to complete. A day is all you need to drive the route’s 300 km and spend time at the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. There are many day tours that do this route should you rather being driven.
You could easily spend anything from a week to three meandering around this little island.
The Golden Circle is great but packed with tourists, and some of my favourite days in Iceland were when I ventured further into the countryside. If you like extreme sports there are many companies that could take you exploring ice caves, on glacier walks, and ice climbing.
TRAVELLING ICELAND?
If you are simply doing a ‘stopping over’ in Reykjavik and not heading out of the capital, all you need is a ticket on the airport bus and your legs to roam around the city! Reykjavik is a small place and relatively flat. There are also several companies that rent bikes and also run bike tours in and around Reykjavik.
If you are heading out of town, I would recommend hiring a car and making your own way. There are bus tours available but personally it isn’t my scene. If you are hoping to see the Northern Lights there are bus companies that can take you to the best spots outside Reykjavik if you are without a vehicle and I found this are worth doing for the insider knowledge.
There are only so many rental cars on the island so don’t leave booking to the last minute. Converted vans kitted out with a sleep space and camping equipment are available and a great option for those wanting to get into nature and potentially save money on hotels. Accommodation is incredibly expensive and in some more remote areas, there isn’t much available.
TRAVELLING ICELAND?
If you are simply doing a ‘stopping over’ in Reykjavik and not heading out of the capital, all you need is a ticket on the airport bus and your legs to roam around the city! Reykjavik is a small place and relatively flat. There are also several companies that rent bikes and also run bike tours in and around Reykjavik.
If you are heading out of town, I would recommend hiring a car and making your own way. There are bus tours available but personally it isn’t my scene. If you are hoping to see the Northern Lights there are bus companies that can take you to the best spots outside Reykjavik if you are without a vehicle and I found this are worth doing for the insider knowledge.
There are only so many rental cars on the island so don’t leave booking to the last minute. Converted vans kitted out with a sleep space and camping equipment are available and a great option for those wanting to get into nature and potentially save money on hotels. Accommodation is incredibly expensive and in some more remote areas, there isn’t much available.
MY BEST ADVICE?
If you are road-tripping be sure to stock up on groceries in the Reykjavik. Prices are high in the capital, but once you are out in the countryside, they double and triple.
You now must have a pre-booked ticket to visit the Blue Lagoon. It is certainly worth visiting, there are many packages to choose from, including the option to have in-water massages.
One tip I have is to not put your hair in the water at the Blue Lagoon! Though it doesn’t do permanent damage, the water will remove all the moisture from your hair for days. Leave-in conditioner is available in the change-rooms for use before and after your swim, but this still doesn’t stop the silica water from destroying your hair if you get it wet!
Click here to visit the official website of the Blue Lagoon.
Pack layers! Even during the summer months, the temperature drops at night and the weather changes on a dime.
Climb to the top of the tower at Hallgrímskirkja Church for sweeping views over the city’s colourful houses.
MY BEST ADVICE?
WHERE SHOULD I GO?
NEED MORE ADVICE? KEEP READING…
So who am I…? Hi! My name is India.
I am a nomadic Australian who has wandered the world full time exploring over 60 countries and 5/7 continents.
After ten years on the road, I have launched my own website – Travelling Notebook – to share the knowledge I have gained on the road and the images I have collected over the years with fellow adventurers. Keep reading…
I am a freelance travel writer, photography and videographer, based in London. If you need specific travel advice or would like to collaborate please send an email my way!
Always say yes to adventure!
x India
