Iceland Travel Guide

Last Updated on 26 January 2026 by Johan

Iceland is a Nordic island nation in the North Atlantic Ocean. It lies between Greenland to the west and the Faroe Islands to the southeast. The Arctic Ocean borders the north while the Atlantic Ocean surrounds the south. Despite its name, Iceland is not covered in ice. It is a land of volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and fjords. Its landscapes are among the most dramatic in Europe and attract travellers from around the world.

Explanation of the name: Iceland

The name “Ísland” means “land of ice.” Norse explorers gave the country this name in the ninth century. They wanted to highlight the glaciers and cold climate. Some historians believe the name was also chosen to discourage settlement compared with Greenland. Over time, Iceland became known as the “Land of Fire and Ice.” This phrase reflects the contrast between its volcanic activity and its glaciers. The name has remained unchanged and is now part of the country’s identity.

History: Iceland

Iceland was settled in the late ninth century by Norse and Celtic peoples. In 930 the Alþingi was founded. It is the world’s oldest parliament and still functions today. During the Middle Ages Iceland was under Norwegian and later Danish rule. In 1944 Iceland became an independent republic. Its isolation helped preserve the Icelandic language which remains close to Old Norse. The sagas written in medieval times are still central to Icelandic culture.

The country is divided into eight regions: Capital Region, Southern Peninsula, West, Westfjords, Northwest, Northeast, East, and South. Reykjavík is the capital and largest city. It is the political and cultural centre of the nation. Iceland has 64 municipalities that manage local services.

Tourist information: Iceland

Iceland’s terrain varies by region. The south has black sand beaches and glaciers such as Vatnajökull. The east is marked by fjords and basalt plateaus. The north includes Akureyri and Eyjafjörður, known for whale watching. The northwest is remote with deep fjords. The highlands are barren lava fields and gravel deserts, accessible only in summer.

Waterfalls are among Iceland’s most famous sights. Gullfoss and Dettifoss are powerful cascades. Háifoss in Þjórsárdalur Valley offers panoramic views with fewer crowds. Seyðisfjörður in the Eastfjords combines art, history, and scenic drives.

Attractions in Iceland

  • Hallgrímskirkja is Reykjavík’s most famous landmark. The church tower rises 74.5 metres and was inspired by basalt lava flows. Visitors can take a lift to the top for views of the city and surrounding mountains. The church also houses a large pipe organ used for concerts. Address: Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík.
  • Perlan is a glass-domed building on Öskjuhlíð hill. It has exhibitions on glaciers, volcanoes, and northern lights. Inside is an ice cave and a planetarium. The revolving restaurant at the top offers views across Reykjavík. Address: Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík.
  • FlyOver Iceland is a modern attraction in Reykjavík. It uses motion seats and a spherical screen to simulate flight over Iceland’s landscapes. Wind, mist, and scents add to the experience. It is popular with families and those unable to explore remote areas. Address: Fiskislóð 43, 101 Reykjavík.
  • Whales of Iceland is the largest whale exhibition in Europe. It features life-sized models of 23 species found in Icelandic waters. Interactive displays explain migration and conservation. It is located near the harbour where whale watching tours depart. Address: Fiskislóð 23–25, 101 Reykjavík.
  • Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament, founded in 930. The park sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where visitors can see the rift between tectonic plates. The clear waters of Silfra fissure make it a top diving spot. Address: Þingvellir, 801 Selfoss.
  • Kerið Crater is a volcanic crater lake in Grímsnes. It is about 6,500 years old. Its red slopes and turquoise water make it striking. Unlike many craters, Kerið still has a visible caldera. Address: Kerið, 805 Selfoss.
  • Dyrhólaey is a peninsula on the south coast near Vík. It is famous for its volcanic arch and lighthouse. Puffins nest here in summer. The views of black sand beaches and glaciers are spectacular. Address: Dyrhólaey, 871 Vík.
  • Vatnajökull National Park is Europe’s largest national park. It covers 14,967 km² and includes glaciers, volcanoes, and diverse ecosystems. Guided glacier walks and ice cave tours are available. Address: Skaftafell Visitor Centre, 785 Öræfi.

Museums in Iceland

  • National Museum of Iceland shows the history of the nation from settlement to modern times. Exhibits include Viking artefacts and cultural treasures. Address: Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík.
  • Settlement Exhibition is built around the remains of a Viking longhouse. Interactive displays explain early settlement. Address: Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík.
  • Perlan Museum combines science and nature. It has an indoor ice cave and northern lights planetarium. Address: Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík.
  • Saga Museum brings Icelandic history to life with realistic figures. Visitors learn about sagas and legends. Address: Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík.
  • Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum recreates life in old Reykjavík. Historic houses and workshops show how people lived. Address: Kistuhylur 4, 110 Reykjavík.

Events in Iceland

  • Reykjavík Arts Festival takes place in May 2026. It features music, theatre, and visual arts. Venues are across Reykjavík. Address: Harpa Concert Hall, Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík.
  • National Day is celebrated on 17 June 2026. It marks independence from Denmark in 1944. Parades and concerts take place across the country. Address: Austurvöllur Square, 101 Reykjavík.
  • Iceland Airwaves is a music festival in November 2026. It showcases Icelandic and international artists. Concerts are held in Reykjavík venues. Address: Harpa Concert Hall, Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík.

Seasonal activities

Winter offers northern lights tours, glacier hikes, and snowmobiling. Summer brings midnight sun, hiking in the highlands, and cycling along coastal roads. Autumn is ideal for fewer crowds and colourful landscapes. Spring highlights birdwatching and blooming wildflowers.

Culinary destinations

Icelandic cuisine features lamb, seafood, and dairy. Traditional dishes include skyr, smoked lamb, and fresh cod. Reykjavík offers modern Nordic dining. Smaller towns serve local specialities such as langoustine in Höfn. Geothermal bakeries in Hveragerði bake bread in hot springs.

Fun things for children

Families enjoy the Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo. Whale watching tours are exciting for older children. Geothermal pools across the country are family-friendly. Interactive museums such as Perlan and the Saga Museum offer engaging exhibits. Horse riding tours provide safe adventures. Winter brings sledding and northern lights viewing.

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