Some people may ask, “What kind of warmth can you expect from a place with ice in its name”? Surprisingly enough, you will feel welcomed the minute you land at Keflavík International. As you pass by airport stores and cafes, you get a sneak preview of what your visit to Iceland will be like – the warmest wool sweaters, comfy robes for a dip in a thermal pool, a potent shot of Reyka vodka, and souvenir posters of the magnificent Northern Lights.
Founded by Vikings 1,000 years ago, Iceland - a country as well as an island - is located in the North Atlantic Ocean. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, geographic wonders like black sand beaches, volcano craters, active geysers, and impressive waterfalls are plentiful. In addition, the marvel of witnessing the Northern Lights is a sight to behold.
If you are not a nature nut, Iceland offers concerts, healing spas, and slews of museums.
Laugavegur Street; restaurants in the old harbour of Reykjavik, Iceland; Gulfoss, Golden waterfall
Strolling Around Reykjavik
Reykjavik, the world’s most northernmost capital, is packed with lots of things to see and do. If you are a museum-goer, the charming city hosts many options like the National Museum of Iceland and the Settlement Exhibition - for a historical perspective. The Perlan Museum features a panoramic planetarium that immerses you in Iceland’s natural wonder – the Aurora Borealis. And, unique to Iceland, check out the Phallic Museum. No joke. The serious/scientific museum is dedicated to anything phallic.
Yes, there is a gift shop!
As you stroll down Laugavegur Street, the picturesque and hipster shopping area, you will no doubt be tempted by unique goods and crafts that only Iceland can produce. Although it is just a little longer than a mile, lots of shopping opportunities call to you from souvenir Icelandic wool sweaters (a must-buy) to mineral-packed cosmetics made from local volcanic ingredients and minerals.
Another hallmark sight in Reykjavik is the Harpa Concert Hall. Located on the Old Harbor, the building is an architectural wonder. Shaped a bit off-kilter, the modern building’s exterior of LED-lit glass cubes is stunning when illuminated at night. Inside, the acoustics are beyond phenomenal. Try to take in a concert or get a tour of the “guts” behind the sound and light systems.
Water Works
Iceland is not only surrounded by water but offers many water wonders on land. Formed from thousands of years of volcanic activity, the countryside beckons you with breathtaking waterfalls, glaciers, and geysers. As a convenience for tourists, Mother Nature seems to have arranged many of Iceland’s must-see natural wonders around the 186-mile route called the Golden Circle. Located in the southwestern part of Iceland, tour operators are always available to take you around the island.
Highlights include Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur Waterspout, and the Gullfoss Waterfall. Originating from the nearby Langjökull Glacier, the powerful Gullfoss waters cascade down 105 feet in two separate flows - a sight to behold.
If you are a hiker, Iceland combines stunning places to see water, ice, and more. Drew Gilbert, an avid hiker, explains what sold him on Iceland, “My fiancé and I wanted a vacation to do non-stop hiking with amazing views, and that's exactly what we got. Our favorite site was the Skaftafell Glacier - a once-in-a-lifetime experience - and it was beautiful. The glacier will be gone in years to come, so something about being on the glacier was even more meaningful.”
A trip to Iceland is not complete without a dip in one of its many natural thermal pools. Although the pool/lagoon is man-made, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular (and touristy) places to splash about. The warm waters, a byproduct of the adjoining thermal plant, produce a soothing and relaxing area to absorb natural salts and minerals. The Blue Lagoon offers plenty of amenities, from lockers and cafes to pamper-me-big-time spas and hotels.
The Light Show of Shows
The Northern Lights, known as the Aurora Borealis, occur when solar particles ionize high in the atmosphere. As a result, the sky becomes a kaleidoscope of mostly wafting greens and blues that illuminate Northern skies. Since Iceland is located so close to the Arctic Pole, you may be able to catch a glimpse even from a high point in Reykjavik. However, you have a better chance of seeing a more vibrant sky by heading out of the city. Important Note: Even during high season (September through April), seeing the lights is not a given – weather and other atmospheric activity can literally cloud your view.
Tours are plentiful. You can opt for a 3-hour bus tour that will take you to areas where the skies are clear and unobstructed.
Other options include a 4-hour Jeep ride to smaller, secluded spots – and hot chocolate provided! If you are a die-hard Aurora Borealis hunter, you may want to spend a few nights enjoying the skies by signing up for a multi-day tour.
Another option is a 3-hour boat tour out of the Old Harbor in Reykjavik. If you don’t see any lights that night, the captain will let you return another night, free of charge.
