I’m on a mission at the moment to catch up on all of those blog posts that have been sitting in my Drafts folder for a while. And one of those is an overview on Iceland and the marvellous things you can do there.
Because although I only visited for 4 days, I packed a helluva lot of stuff in that time. And had the best time ever I might add. This place rules.
So whether you’re there on a big 2 week trip or just in town for a layover enroute to the States, here’s an idea of some of the things you can get up to in this insanely cool country.
Thing To Do In Iceland
Golden Circle: Geysir Hot Springs
A total must-do in Iceland is a Golden Circle tour. Loads of tour operators offer them but I went with this one by Reykjakiv Excursions. The tour took me to three of the major spots on this route, one being the pretty spectacular Geysir Hot Springs.
Watch exploding geysers reach 30 metres high, it’s pretty awesome.
Golden Circle: Thingvellir National Park
The second spot on the Golden Circle tour was Thingvellir National Park. It’s a pretty cool place that sits in between two tectonic plates and looks like another planet. If you’re brave enough you can even go diving in the freezing cold waters and swim between the actual tectonic plates.
Oh, and it’s also where some Game Of Thrones scenes were films, so if you’re a fellow GOT nerd, you’ll love it. (It’s where the entrance to The Eyrie in The Vale is).
Golden Circle: Gullfoss Waterfall
The last thing on the Golden Circle tour that’s cool to check out is Gullfoss Waterfall. It was awesome to see in April but I’d love to go back and check it out in the winter when it’s surrounded by snow!
Blue Lagoon
Some people are down on the Blue Lagoon as a bit of a tourist trap. But I think it’s a must-visit destination. It’s a novelty and sure there are loads of people but I really enjoyed bathing in the hot turquoise waters surrounded by mountains. Would recommend a visit for sure.
Check out these top tips before you go, or watch the following video:
View From Hallgrímskirkja
Got to find a good viewpoint in a new city right?
Well in Reykjavik that’s the view from the top of Hallgrímskirkja. Luckily there’s a lift that takes you most of the way and when you reach the top you have a fab view of the city. The little colourful houses look like Lego from up there! Plus it’s quite affordable at 1,000 ISK a pop.
Horse-Riding On Icelandic Ponies
Even if you’re not a horse person, you can’t deny the little Icelandic ponies are adorable. And riding them in Iceland is such an amazing experience. You get to explore between mountains and go through rivers and basically just have a great adventure on a horse.
It was definitely scary but I loved trying it out at Eldhestar Horse Farm. This was actually all part of that Reykjavik Excursions tour so really great value for money if you ask me, pal.
Grab A Hotdog From Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
It can be pricey in Iceland but not if you’re smart about it. (I have a full budgeting post for Iceland over here FYI).
And a budget option for lunch that’s also a bit of a tourist attraction, is buying a hotdog from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. This stand is famous for being voted the best hotdog stand in Europe by The Guardian as well as where Bill Clinton had a hotdog when he visited. But best of all? It’s just really tasty and totally cheap.
Get Tipsy At Olgerdin Brewery
I’ve been on a few brewery tours but the one at Olgerdin Brewery was definitely the most unique!
The tour part is relatively short so you mainly sit in their bar, trying lots of different beers whilst the guide cracks jokes and tells you about Iceland’s weird history with prohibition. It’s such a fun experience, I promise. (Full blog post on this one over here)
Do Some Vintage Shopping
Reykjavik is one of my favourite cities for vintage shopping. There are a lot of bargains to be had, my friend.
Try some uber-cool thrifty shops such as Gyllti Kötturinn and Sputnik for scandi-chic jumpers and cool cross-body bags. There’s also a Fleamarket near the harbour if you fancy a rummage but the wares aren’t as fashionable as these boutiques in my opinion.
Discover Some V Cool Coffee Shops
I wrote a whole blog post about how cool the coffee shops are in Reykjavik. If you need a break from all of the adventure in this destination, a relaxing afternoon in a cafe is just what the doctor ordered.
My faves are the hipster chic Vinyl and the living room-esque Stofan Kaffihus. Both completely Insta-worthy obvs.
Enjoy A Quirky Stay At KEX
KEX is one of the coolest hostels I’ve ever stayed at. Hands down.
The former biscuit factory is industrial Scandi in design with cosy Hygge vibes thrown in and a hipster edge. It’s a really cool place to stay (with A+ breakfast and amazing views of the mountains) but is also a cool bar and restaurant to visit whilst you’re in town. (Check out the full hostel review here)
Spot The Northern Lights
Okay, this is the only thing on this list that I didn’t actually do as I visited Iceland at the wrong time of year. But how can I write a ‘Things To Do in Iceland’ post without including one of the biggest draws to this country?
So instead I’m just going to link to this post on the Tourism Board’s website all about this Aurora Borealis thingymajig.
Eat Delish Burgers At Laundromat Cafe
Another good shout for budget food is Laundromat Cafe. They do fantastic burgers, have a great atmosphere and cool decor with lots of maps and books. Aka the best things.
It’s also a great place for solo trips as you can eat at the bar.
Sculptures and Street Art
In terms of the Reykjavik art scene, there’s lots to see. The Sun Voyager is a great place to start, the skeletal boat sculpture by the water.
There’s also lots of cool street art all over the city. Have fun wandering the lanes near the harbour spotting the colourful murals.
Wander Harpa Concert Hall
If you like architecture, there’s a building you need to check out in Reykjavik – Harpa Concert Hall. It’s full of geometric shapes and pretty glass walls, really cool.
So even if you’re not a architecture-nerd, it’s still worth a visit just to see the light that comes through these walls.
Enjoy Reykjavik’s Festivals
Reykjavik is also a city of festivals. Cultural, music and film, there’s a lot going on.
I was there for Labour Day, and there was a parade down the main shopping street and live music in the square. I’m really glad I got to see it.
Check out what festival is happening whilst you’re in town over here.
Did I miss anything? Let me know what you think in the comments below, tweet me at @HeelsInBackpack or find me over at Insta at @Heels.In.My.Backpack!
WANT MORE? CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO FROM MY ICELAND TRIP:
PIN FOR LATER, PAL:
