The Ultimate Iceland Bucket List
The Ultimate Iceland Bucket List
If you’re looking for an Iceland bucket list, then you came to the right place. I spent four nights and five days in Iceland at the beginning of August 2017 and it still wasn’t enough time to get deep into the country and its Icelandic roots. I’d recommend about a week or more if you’re trying to complete all regions of Iceland and dig into its roots in just one trip.
During my trip I covered Reykjavik, the western region of Iceland, and the southern region of iceland. Since I visited during Iceland’s summer, there was 24 hour daylight which gave us lots of time to explore and not a lot of time to sleep. If you want to maximize your time then definitely come around the summer solstice.
Iceland is a country that attracts tourists because of its natural beauty, hot springs, beautiful outdoor views, glaciers, and much much more. Iceland is one of the top 5 most expensive countries in Europe, so be very cautious if you’re traveling on a budget here.
What to do in Iceland
Explore Reykjavik
The capital of Iceland and where 80% of the countries population lies. Find amazing authentic Icelandic cuisine, explore its history, and check out the city’s night life.
Hallgrimskirka
One of the most unusual buildings in Reykjavik and in the country. The lutheran church is located in Reykjavik so be sure to stop by to check it out before or after grabbing some food down the street.
Þingvellir National Park
Just a short drive away from Reykjavik. Stand in both North America and Europe right over where the two continents meet. Take a stroll through the national park to see beautiful trails, views, see the prime minister’s summer home, and maybe even scuba dive between the plates at Sifra!
Gullfoss (Golden Waterfalls)
Gullfoss is a part of the Golden Circle located in the southern region of Iceland. It’s a beautiful untouched force of nature that is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Walk right into the mist of the glacier runoff and maybe even catch some rainbows on a sunny day.
Geysir and Stokkur
Also a part of the Golden Circle Tour. A natural geysir and part of nature that shoots up every 5-10 minutes. The geothermal area bubbles before it erupts and it’s truly an amazing sight.
Reynisfjara Beach
A beautiful black-sand beach on the southern coast. Climb up the basalt columns or go into one of the caves for some great photo ops. Try wearing open toed shoes here or you’ll end up with tons of sand in your sneakers!
Seljalandsfoss
One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls that you can walk behind. Be sure to wear waterproof pants and a raincoat to avoid getting cold and wet.
Skogafoss
Another amazing waterfall that’s just a short drive away from Seljalandsfoss. You can take a staircase up to the top of the waterfall for some more amazing views.
Jokulsarlon
Seeing the glaciers HAS to be a priority on your Iceland bucket list. The glaciers in Iceland are AMAZING! Take a boat through the glaciers if you have the option to, to get deep into the lagoon. The views are awesome and the water is so clear.
Blue Lagoon
Don’t get me wrong, the Blue Lagoon was absolutely beautiful, but don’t get your hopes up if you’re expecting some out of this world experience. I spent about 2 hours in the beautiful silica-filled lagoon where I laid back and relaxed with a drink in my hand and a silica mask on my face.
Click here to book online in advance if you want the cheap options and be cautious because the lagoon gets pretty crowded later in the day. I’d suggest going early morning if you’re looking for some good photo ops and less crowds.
Food Finds in Iceland
Of coure foos has to be a part of the Iceland bucket list! Food in iceland is going to expensive. For reference, a burger converts to about $20. If you’re on a budget then I’d suggest getting your groceries from Bonus. But, if you get the chance to try Icelandic cuisine, do it! One of my favorite foods while being in Iceland was the lamb and pork dipped in bearnaise sauce. Almost all restaurants will serve some type of this meal.
Potturinn og Pannan
Brautarholt 22, Reykjavík, Iceland
A small buffet style restaurant in Reykjavik that serves authentic Icelandic cuisine and probably my favorite place I ate during my stay. The wait staff was very welcoming and the food was delicious. Click here to view the menu options!
How to get around Iceland
Rent a Car
Renting a car is pretty much a must. All the sights on your Iceland bucket list are spread all throughout Iceland with a good car ride length between them. Renting your own car also gives you the freedom to run on your own time schedule.
Don’t worry, all rental car services offer wifi with their rental cars.
Gas
Gas in Iceland is going to be expensive and credit cards require a pin at the pump, so be sure to call your banks ahead of time to make sure you have a pin!
Hitchhike
If you’re on a budget then hitchhiking is a great option. Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world and most roads are one way.
Bus
Taking a tour bus is also an option but it doesn’t give you time freedom. If you can rent a car over taking a bus then I’d highly suggest doing so!
Best time to visit Iceland
July-August
Just around the summer solstice is Iceland’s busiest season of the year. The weather gets warmer and tourists still get to experience the natural beauty of Iceland.
Northern lights
The northern lights should be a part of your Iceland bucket list, but you’ll have to give up warmer weather for the beautiful lights. The best months to visit for these is usually February-March and September-October.
During these months the sun is out for the majority of the day, which gives you more time to fit more sights into your itinerary.
The Good of Iceland
Natural Beauty
Just driving through Iceland will leave you with breathtaking views. You’ll be forced to stop to capture some amazing pictures that even a camera can’t capture. Take many pictures and take even more mental pictures.
English Speaking
Most people in Iceland speak very good English so don’t be afraid to ask. They usually are very friendly and welcoming to tourists, but be respectful of their culture as well.
Fresh drinking water
Don’t waste your money spending money on bottled water. The water from Iceland is probably the best water I’ve ever drank because it comes fresh out of the streams! Drinking the cold water out of the tap is perfectly ok, you’re even able to drink the water from streams and waterfalls throughout Iceland.
The Not-So-Good of Iceland
Bipolar weather
Don’t be surprised if you experience all 4 seasons just in one day. This makes packing clothes for layering so important! The mornings are quite breezy but if the sun comes out mid-day, it can get really warm.
Expensive
Iceland is going to be expensive and you’re going to have to accept that before your trip. Meals, accommodation, gas, and almost everything you buy will cost a pretty penny, so be cautious of this when shopping.
Hot Water
The hot water in Iceland is full of Sulfur and smells kind of like rotten eggs. It’s ok to shower in and brush your teeth, but don’t swallow it. Don’t get grossed out by the smell because it’s just Iceland’s natural source of hot water.
Quick Tips for Iceland
Bring lots of clothes for layering
The weather changes throughout the day. I’d recommend bringing a rain coat, waterproof pants, and waterproof hiking shoes. A lot of the sights are outdoors, which requires you to be prepared for any type of weather that comes your way.
Use card over cash
Iceland is almost a cashless society, so use a card if you have the option to do so! I’d recommend using a card with no international or ATM fees to avoid extra charges throughout your trip. I use Charles Schwab as my international card.
