Iceland is a country that attracts visitors from all over the world due to its natural beauty, unique landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the Northern Lights to glaciers, geysers, and hot springs, Iceland is full of breathtaking sights and experiences that are unrivaled anywhere else on earth.
In this article, we’ll explore the top places to visit in Iceland, including its most famous landmarks and cities. We’ll also provide some interesting facts about Iceland to help you better understand this fascinating country.
Facts About Iceland
- Iceland is located in the North Atlantic, just south of the Arctic Circle.
- Despite its name, Iceland is not covered in ice, but rather has a temperate maritime climate.
- The country has a population of just over 360,000 people, making it one of the least crowded countries in the world.
- Icelandic is the official language of Iceland, but many Icelanders also speak English and other languages.
- Iceland has a unique culture that’s heavily influenced by its Viking heritage, including traditional sagas, music, and art.
Iceland Top Cities
Akrane
Located on the west coast of Iceland, Akranes is a charming town known for its lighthouses and beautiful beaches. Visitors can also explore local museums, such as the Akranes Folk Museum and the Akranes Lighthouse Museum.
Akureyri
Often called the “Capital of the North,” Akureyri is Iceland’s second-largest urban area after Reykjavik. It’s a hub for outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and fishing, and features several notable cultural attractions like the Akureyri Art Museum and the Akureyri Botanical Garden.
Blonduos
Blonduos is a small town in northern Iceland that’s surrounded by stunning mountains and rivers. Its main attraction is the iconic Laxá River, which is known for its salmon fishing.
Borgarnes
Located on the west coast of Iceland, Borgarnes is a picturesque town with plenty of historical and cultural attractions, including the Settlement Center and the Borgarfjörður Museum.
Höfn
Höfn is a small town located on the southeastern coast of Iceland. It’s known for its excellent seafood, including its famous langoustines, and its proximity to Vatnajökull Glacier, one of Iceland’s most popular tourist destinations.
Hveragerdi
Hveragerdi is a charming town in southwestern Iceland that’s known for its hot springs, geothermal parks, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the famous Reykjadalur Hot Springs or hike to the top of the nearby Hveragerdi Mountain.
Keflavik
Keflavik is a bustling town located just a few kilometers from Iceland’s international airport. It’s an excellent starting point for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders, such as the Blue Lagoon, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Seltún Geothermal Area.
Kirkjubaejarklaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur is a small village located in southern Iceland. It’s known for its beautiful scenery, including the nearby Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, and its rich history, which dates back to the Viking era.
Reykjavik
No trip to Iceland would be complete without a visit to Reykjavik, the country’s capital and largest city. Here, visitors can explore world-class museums, sample delicious Icelandic cuisine, and experience the vibrant nightlife.
Seydisfjordur
Seydisfjörður is a picturesque town located in the eastern part of Iceland. It’s known for its colorful houses, scenic harbor, and impressive waterfalls, including the Fardagafoss and Gufufoss waterfalls.
Iceland Famous Landmarks
Jokulsarlon
Jökulsárlón is a glacial lagoon that’s located in southeastern Iceland. It’s known for its crystal-clear water and the large icebergs that float on its surface, many of which have broken off from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier.
Myvatn Lake
Mývatn Lake is a beautiful lake located in northern Iceland. It’s surrounded by geothermal activity, including hot springs and mud pots, and is home to a variety of unique bird species.
The Great Geysir
The Great Geysir is a famous geyser located in southwestern Iceland. It’s been erupting for over 10,000 years and can shoot water up to 70 meters in the air.
The Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” is a stunning waterfall located in southwestern Iceland. It’s fed by the Hvítá River and drops more than 30 meters into a deep canyonbelow.
Vatnajokull Glacier
Vatnajökull Glacier is the largest glacier in Iceland and covers over 8% of the country’s surface area. It’s a popular destination for ice cave tours, glacier hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Conclusion
Iceland is a truly unique travel destination, with its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly people. From charming towns like Akranes and Seydisfjordur to world-famous landmarks like Jökulsárlón and Gullfoss, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country.
Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking and skiing or cultural attractions like museums and art galleries, Iceland has it all. So why not start planning your trip today and discover the best places to visit in Iceland for yourself?
