Must see places in Iceland
Top 20 places you need to visit on your Iceland road trip
Iceland is known for its stunning landscapes, including glaciers, hot springs, geysers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. The diversity of landscapes across this small country makes it a photographer’s paradise.
1. Reykjavik
Iceland’s capital Reykjavik is a beautiful and unique city. I’d highly recommend spending 1-2 nights here either before or after your Icelandic road trip. Some must-do’s in Reykjavik include:
Eat at least one pastry per day from Braud & Co - my favourite was the cinnamon scroll but you’ll need to get there in the morning for this one.
Walk down the colourful Laugavegur Street and the famous Rainbow Street. If you want a photo minus all the photobombers, visit here early in the morning.
Visit Hallgrimskirkja cathedral and get the elevator to the top (small fee) for a view of Reykjavik.
Get a classic hotdog from Baejarins Beztu Pylsur - make sure to get the crunchy toppings!
Check out the impressive architecture at the Harpa Concert Hall - it’s free to enter the building to view the lobby.
Visit Sky Lagoon - this may be an unpopular opinion, but I rate this over Blue Lagoon! Bookings are essential - I’d recommend the return transfers (if you don’t have a car) and the ‘Pure Pass’ so that the ritual is included.
2. Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is one of those popular tourist destinations that are worth braving the crowds. It’s an extremely busy spot but for good reason - being able to walk behind these powerful falls is absolutely magical. I’ve never experienced anything like it. Warning - you will get SOAKED, but that is part of the charm. Some tips for visiting Seljalandsfoss:
Visit at sunrise or sunset for beautiful golden hour colours and smaller crowds.
Like all major tourist spots in Iceland there is a parking fee - pass on your ticket to someone else when you leave and hope someone does the same for you :)
You MUST walk behind the falls. Trust me it’s worth it.
Make sure to wear waterproof clothing or quick-dry tights/leggings.
Other sights to see around Seljalandsfoss if you have time:
Slightly further up the road, there is another waterfall called Gljufrabui which is also worth checking out if you have time before sunset.
If you have a drone, the river next to Seljalandsfoss has some great river braids for photographing patterns.
Further along the highway, there is another waterfall called Irafoss (you might be noticing a pattern here - there is no shortage of waterfalls in Iceland!)
3. Skogafoss
Skogafoss is another insane waterfall to visit - it is incredibly powerful. You can’t walk behind this one, however, there are stairs taking you all the way to the top of the falls. As with all other popular spots in Iceland, I’d recommend getting here early in the morning to avoid the tour bus crowds. At the lookout at the top of the falls, you can continue through a little gate (which looks like a gate to keep livestock in) to the Fimmvorduhals Trailhead. This is a beautiful and easy trail - you can walk for as little or as long as you like. There will be barely anyone else on this trail, so enjoy the serenity!
If you’re in a campervan, time your arrival for just after sunset. The campground is essentially the car park for visitors to Skogafoss. So I was lucky enough to arrive just after all the day visitors left, snagging myself one of the best spots facing the falls (see photo above). The facilities at this campsite are very basic, however, it’s worth it for the views and prime location. Roll out of bed early in the morning and get some photos at the base of Skogafoss. Even in the early hours, you may have to photoshop some people out of your photos if you have limited patience like me! Once you’ve taken some photos, head up to the top of the falls.
4. Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
Quite a bizarre tourist attraction, but worth visiting if it works well with your itinerary. It’s eery and beautiful at the same time. The actual plane wreck is 3.5km from the parking lot and there are shuttles available to take you there (frequency depends on the season).
I decided to walk the 7km round trip, but it was flat and boring and I wouldn’t recommend it. Just as I arrived at the plane, a shuttle bus arrived with a full load of people - this would have saved a lot of time! Even when it’s busy, it’s possible to get shots from different angles to avoid the people. Most people were quite courteous and took turns taking photos.
Whilst I thought the plane wreck was cool, if you’re on a tight time frame this would be one thing I would skip.
I didn’t actually visit Reynisfjara Beach, but it was on my list! Reynisfjara is a black sand beach located on the south coast of Iceland, near Vík. It is famous for its basalt columns and is an excellent spot to get photos. The beach is also known for its powerful waves, which can be dangerous so it's important to be careful when visiting.
I actually skipped Reynisfjara as I was planning to photograph the basalt columns at Studlagil - but that turned out to be a disaster (more on that later). Don’t be like me, make sure to stop in at Reynisfjara!
5. Reynisfjara Beach
6. Fjadrargljufur
Fjadrargljufur is a beautiful little canyon located in the southeast of Iceland. You can do an easy 3km walk alongside the canyon, with several viewpoints along the way. I visited in the afternoon so it was quite busy, but still a really nice enjoyable and relaxing walk.
7. Skaftafell
I stayed at Skaftafell Campsite as it fitted into my itinerary, but I had no idea how beautiful the surroundings would be. The campsite itself has excellent facilities, including a free washing machine and dryer (you might need to get up early to use it though!). Most of the people staying here hiked up to Svartifoss - another amazing waterfall. If you have time to hike up here, I heard that it is worth checking out.
I arrived after sunset and only had time for one walk in the morning so decided to go to Skaftafell Glacier. At this point in my trip, I’d seen many waterfalls but had not yet gotten close to a glacier. It was an easy walk from the campsite and was so incredibly peaceful - the trees were a vibrant orange colour and little birds were flying around everywhere. Arriving at the glacier, I was blown away! The Skaftafell glacier is part of the Vatnajokull glacier, which is the largest glacier in Iceland and one of the largest in Europe. I’ve never seen anything like it. The whole experience was made so much more enjoyable as there was not a single person around.
8. Múlagljúfur Canyon
Mulagljufur Canyon is an absolute must-do hike in Iceland! It’s underrated and a lot quieter than other spots on the south coast. The hike is 6km out and back and is moderately difficult. When I visited, it was insanely windy - to the point that I had to crouch down during some of the gusts! Pushing through the wind was so worth it for the magical views. The canyon and waterfalls are out of this world. The gravel road to the trailhead is a little bit sketchy/bumpy but it was possible with my van, just make sure to drive slowly if you’re not in a 4WD. The start of the walk can be a bit difficult to spot, however, it’s located at the furthest end of the parking lot.
9. Jökulsárlón Glacier and Diamond Beach
Jokulsarlon Glacier and Diamond Beach are located within close proximity to one another and are incredibly popular tourist destinations in Iceland. The ring road runs right past the car park so it’s definitely worth the stop. I was actually pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this area despite the crowds. The floating icebergs and black sand beach make for a really pretty and unique scene - particularly if the sun is shining.
10. Stokksnes/Vestrahorn Mountain
Stokksnes is wild. The black sand beach, dramatic mountain views, lagoons and coastal cliffs make for an amazing backdrop for photos. This is actually private property and there is a 900 ISK (approx AU$10) entrance fee - it is 1000% worth it. They provide you with a map and suggested walking trails around the property. I didn’t get to spend nearly enough time here, so I’d recommend staying at the private campground overnight. There is also a little cafe where you can get coffee (or Icelandic Hot Chocolate) and meals. Sunrise, sunset and/or golden hour are the best times to photograph here.
11. Hvalnes Lighthouse
The purpose of this stop is not specifically for the lighthouse, but for the dramatic scenery. If you have a drone this is a must-visit area of Iceland - the coastline here is insane and the curved road makes for a fantastic photo. Even without a drone, it is definitely still worth the drive along this coast!
12. Seydisfjordur
If you’re in the western fjords, Seydisfjordur is an adorable little town to visit. The main street features a painted rainbow leading to the church - a reminder of how progressive Iceland is. Seydisfjordur is known for being a sustainable, inclusive and arty town and deserves a spot on your Icelandic itinerary.
13. Hengifoss
Hengifoss is located in the northeast corner of Iceland and is worth the short detour off the ring road. It’s one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland and has distinctive layers of red clay and black basalt. Here are some tips for visiting Hengifoss:
The main hike to the falls is along the left side of the canyon (when viewed from the parking lot) - they’ve built in stairs and boardwalks to make it more accessible. It’s around 5km return.
You can return via the opposite side of the canyon (this is what I did), however, I’d probably just recommend sticking to the main side - the trail on the right-hand side was not as accessible or enjoyable.
Make sure to stop to check out Litlanesfoss - another stunning waterfall about halfway into the hike.
I’ve read that you can hike all the way to the top of Hengifoss, however, I couldn’t see the path so decided to send my drone instead. If you’re really keen on getting to the top, I’d do a bit more research.
In the summer/shoulder months, there is a coffee van in the car park to get a well-deserved treat after your hike!
14. Studlagil Canyon
I was really excited to visit Studlagil as I’d seen so many amazing photos. What I didn’t realise is that the water is only blue in the summer months! Once the mountain reservoir fills in August, the brown water flows through the canyon - pictured above. Because of this, the best months to visit Studlagil are mid-June to mid-August. Outside of these times, I honestly don’t think it’s worth visiting as your precious time can be spent elsewhere.
Studlagil can be viewed from either side of the canyon:
The west side is the most accessible option with a car park and toilets. There are stairs that take you down for a good view, but you can’t actually access the canyon floor.
The east side requires a lot more effort but will give you access to better photos as you can walk down to the water. To get to the east side, you will need to park here, walk across the bridge, turn right and continue along the canyon. It’s approximately 4km to the best part of the canyon (8km return). If you have a 4WD you will be able to park closer.
15. Viti, Hverir & Mývatn Nature Baths
I woke up to a bit of a surprise snowstorm while on the northern coast of Iceland. I had been really looking forward to seeing Viti crater so decided to continue with the original plan. It was a very different experience in a snowstorm, but it was still really cool! Plus had the added bonus of having the place to myself (apparently no one is as crazy as me?!). The photos didn’t turn out due to the snow and gale-force winds, however, it was still beautiful to see! I will definitely be heading back to Viti on my next trip to view the stunning crater in all its glory.
Hverir Geothermal Area is worth stopping by on the way to/from Viti crater. The bubbling mud pools and hissing fumaroles are really cool to see (albeit smelly) and you are able to get up really close to the action.
Mývatn Nature Baths are a great alternative to Blue Lagoon on a smaller scale with fewer people. I didn’t personally visit here, but I’ve heard amazing things.
16. Godafoss Waterfall
Godafoss (Waterfall of the Gods), is different to the other waterfalls in Iceland as it’s much wider and is in a horseshoe shape (mini version of Niagara Falls). I recommend visiting from both sides (east and west), however, if you only have time for one stop, the east side is slightly better.
17. Grábrók Crater
Continuing on around the ring road, there isn’t much between Godafoss and Snaefellsnes Peninsula. I stopped in a Grabrok Crater to have a break from driving and was pleasantly surprised with how cool it was! The landscape is so colourful and interesting - it’s unlike anything I’ve seen before.
Grabrok is easily accessible, located right next to the main road, with a free parking lot. It has footpaths and stairs leading you up the side of the crater and continues the entire upper ring, with amazing views all the way around. It was a busy stop with tourists, however, this certainly didn’t take away from the vibe. The entire walk talks around 30 minutes if you’re stopping to take photos. There is a cafe/restaurant next door if you need food and toilets.
18. Kirkjufell
Kirkjufell is a stunning mountain located on the north coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsular. For Game of Thrones fans, you may recognise this mountain as “arrowhead mountain”. It’s a great place to visit year-round, as the snow just makes it even more beautiful and it’s also an epic spot to view the northern lights.
If you want the famous photo with the waterfall in the background, you should park here. However, there is a fee and it does get busy. I decided to go with an alternative and parked here for free. You can get really close to the water for photos are there are also a few random horses around that seem to enjoy being in photos!
19. Svodufoss & Kerlingarfoss
Svodufoss & Kerlingarfoss are a couple of smaller waterfalls located in close proximity to one another. What I loved about these falls is that they are so beautiful, but not very well known. I had the entire area to myself and only saw a couple of people arrive when I was leaving. I’d recommend driving all the way to Kerlingarfoss - there is a small parking lot at the end of a rocky road (drive slow). I took a few photos of these falls, but the highlight is walking to the top of Svodufoss.
The little hike starts up an old rocky 4WD track to the right of Kerlingarfoss. Continue the rocky track to the top of the hill and as it flattens off, start to head right and continue all the way to the top of the falls (be careful of the cliff edges). It’s not a defined path but I don’t think you can get lost - follow the noise of the falls and have google maps loaded on an aerial photograph so you can follow the GPS.
20. Budakirkja (Black Church)
Budakirkja is a beautiful black church located on the southern coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula near the small town of Budir. The iconic church was built in 1703 and has become a popular spot for photographers.
You can also walk along this coastline for some beautiful drone opportunities - the weather was bad when I visited so unfortunately I couldn’t fly the drone.