Best Iceland Day Trips & Things to Do

What Is the Best Month to Visit Iceland?

Iceland is a year-round destination, but the experience changes dramatically with the seasons.

Summer (June to August) brings the midnight sun, warmer weather, and easier driving conditions, making it perfect for exploring the Golden Circle, South Coast, and highlands.

Winter (November to February) is the best time for Northern Lights tours, ice cave adventures, and glacier activities, though shorter daylight hours mean less sightseeing time.

Shoulder seasons in spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are great for fewer crowds and a balance of daylight and aurora viewing.

For travelers looking for Iceland day tours, May through September generally offers the widest selection of activities.

Top 15 Things to Do in Iceland

If you’re wondering what makes Iceland so special, the answer lies in its endless list of attractions and activities. From fire-breathing volcanoes to shimmering glaciers, every corner of the country feels like a natural wonder. Below are 15 of the best things to do in Iceland.

Golden Circle - The most famous route in Iceland, the Golden Circle combines three incredible sites: Þingvellir National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk between two tectonic plates), the Geysir geothermal area (with erupting hot springs), and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall. It’s the ultimate introduction to Iceland and a top choice for Iceland day tours.

Blue Lagoon - Imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by lava fields while steam rises around you. That’s the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous spa. It’s close to Keflavik Airport, making it a perfect stop before or after your flight. Pro tip: book tickets early, as spots sell out quickly.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - This otherworldly lagoon is filled with floating icebergs that drift slowly toward the Atlantic. Right next door is Diamond Beach, where ice chunks sparkle on the black sand. Together, they create one of the most photogenic places to visit in Iceland.

Northern Lights Tours - Watching the aurora dance across Iceland’s dark skies is a bucket-list moment. The best time is from late September to April. Local guides use weather forecasts to find the clearest skies, giving you the best shot at seeing the green, purple, and pink lights in action.

South Coast Waterfalls - Iceland is famous for waterfalls, and two of its most iconic lie along the South Coast: Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the curtain of water, and Skógafoss, a thunderous cascade that often creates rainbows on sunny days. Both are easy to reach on a single day trip.

Vatnajökull National Park - Covering nearly 14% of Iceland, this park is home to Europe’s largest glacier. Visitors come for ice cave tours, glacier hikes, and surreal views of snow-capped peaks. In winter, the crystal-blue ice caves are one of the most popular things to see in Iceland.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula - Known as “Iceland in Miniature,” this peninsula packs volcanoes, lava fields, fishing villages, and beaches into a small area. The highlight is Kirkjufell, a uniquely shaped mountain that’s a favorite among photographers (you’ve probably seen it on Instagram).

Reykjavik City - Don’t skip Iceland’s capital. Climb Hallgrímskirkja Church for city views, stroll the waterfront to see the Sun Voyager sculpture, and check out Harpa Concert Hall’s glass design. Reykjavik also has lively cafes, bars, and a surprisingly good food scene.

Whale Watching - Iceland’s coastal waters are teeming with marine life. Husavik in the north is the top spot, with humpbacks, minke whales, and sometimes even blue whales making appearances. Tours operate from Reykjavik as well, so you don’t need to travel far to join one.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach - Near the town of Vik, this dramatic beach features jet-black sand, towering basalt columns, and crashing waves. It’s stunning but dangerous - always stay far back from the water, as sneaker waves are common here.

Landmannalaugar - In the Highlands, this colorful geothermal area is famous for its rhyolite mountains, steaming hot springs, and multi-day hiking trails. It’s only accessible in summer, but the rainbow-colored hills make the effort worthwhile.

Volcano Adventures - Few places on earth let you get so close to active volcanic landscapes. In recent years, eruptions at Fagradalsfjall have drawn visitors who hiked to see fresh lava flows. Even dormant volcanoes like Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull tell fascinating geological stories.

Glacier Hiking & Ice Climbing - Strap on crampons and explore glaciers like Sólheimajökull with a guide. Walking on centuries-old ice, peering into crevasses, and even trying ice climbing are unforgettable ways to experience Iceland’s frozen world.

Westfjords - One of Iceland’s most remote regions, the Westfjords reward those who venture there with towering cliffs, bird colonies (including puffins), and Dynjandi, a magnificent waterfall that cascades like a bridal veil. It’s off the beaten path but worth it for those with time.

Icelandic Food Experiences - Beyond nature, tasting local food is part of the adventure. Try lamb soup, fresh Arctic char, or adventurous bites like fermented shark (not for everyone!). Reykjavik also has a growing reputation for innovative Nordic cuisine.

Together, these attractions show the sheer variety of activities in Iceland, from relaxation in geothermal spas to adrenaline-pumping glacier hikes. No matter how long you stay, you’ll never run out of amazing things to see in Iceland.

Where to Go in Iceland for the First Time

If it’s your first visit, the South Coast and Golden Circle are top priorities. They’re packed with some of the most famous Iceland attractions and are easy to reach from Reykjavik.

A 3-5 day trip usually includes Reykjavik city exploration, a Golden Circle tour, a South Coast day trip, and a visit to the Blue Lagoon. For longer stays, consider adding Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon or Snæfellsnes Peninsula to your itinerary.

How to Get Around Iceland

Iceland’s infrastructure makes it relatively easy to travel, but options vary depending on your comfort level.

Renting a car is the most flexible way to see different places to visit in Iceland, especially if you want to explore beyond Reykjavik.

However, guided day tours in Iceland are ideal for those who prefer not to drive, offering stress-free access to major sites with local guides.

Public buses exist but are limited, especially outside summer.

Domestic flights connect Reykjavik with Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Ísafjörður for those wanting to see remote regions quickly.

Pro Tips for Visiting Iceland

Weather: Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes are essential year-round. Even in summer, temperatures range from 10-15°C (50-59°F).

Packing: Bring waterproof clothing, thermal layers, gloves, and a hat. For winter activities in Iceland, crampons for icy paths are recommended. In summer, don’t forget an eye mask for the midnight sun.

Money: Credit cards are widely accepted, so carrying a lot of cash isn’t necessary. Tipping is not customary, as service charges are usually included.

Driving: If you plan to rent a car, familiarize yourself with Iceland’s F-roads (mountain roads) and check daily weather and road conditions at road.is before setting out.

Local etiquette: Respect nature by sticking to marked trails, not disturbing moss, and following Leave No Trace principles. Iceland’s fragile environment depends on careful visitor behavior.