11 Reasons Why Iceland Is Worth Visiting For Your Next Trip

Iceland, widely known as the land of fire and ice, is the country that offers extreme and contrast landscapes and a wide variety of experience making it a unique destination like no other. Whether you are drawn to its stunning landscapes of glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls, or the chance to see the Northern Lights across the sky, Iceland provides travelers unforgettable escape into its nature.

In addition to the wonderful landscapes, Iceland’s Viking culture adds another layer of rich travel experience. From Viking history to its unique customs and traditions, the culture is intertwined with the natural environment, giving visitors a chance to learn about Icelandic people’s way of life and taste something truly different.

Discover more about Iceland and find out if it is worth visiting.

Is Iceland Worth Visiting?

If you’re asking yourself is Iceland worth visiting or would I consider Iceland for my vacation destination? The answer is yes, absolutely! because there’s no place like it in Europe!

As a country that’s accessible and exciting escape with nature-filled adventure to offer, Iceland is a great place to visit, especially for those coming from Boston, USA. With direct flights around 5-6 hours from Boston to Reykjavik, Iceland is one of the closest gateways to Europe, making it a convenient destination to travel to. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or a longer vacation, the ease of travel from the East Coast adds to its appeal.

What draws me most to Iceland is its extremely attractive natural landscapes. The chance to see massive glaciers, breathtaking waterfalls, and beautiful beaches is simply unbeaten. The country placing great emphasis on safety and well-maintained infrastructure makes it a welcoming place to explore, even for solo travelers.

And for horse riding enthusiasts like me, Iceland is largely a must visit. It is the home to the Icelandic horse, a unique breed known for its fluffy appearance, sweet temperament, and the unusual walking gait or tölt, which makes riding comfortable and smooth even across rough terrain. The combination of astonishing natural scenery and the joy of horse riding makes Iceland a perfect destination for adventurers and equestrian lovers alike.

11 Reasons To Visit Iceland

We’ve compiled the list of the top 11 reasons why everyone should visit Iceland.

1. Striking Natural Landscapes

Iceland is a land of contrasts, where fire and ice coexist. You can witness massive glaciers such as Sólheimajökull, vast lava fields, black sand beaches like Reynisfjara, lush valleys and powerful waterfalls. This unique blend of natural variety offers a constantly changing landscape creating an unforgettable visual experience.

2. Unique Adventure Activities

Whether it’s glacier hiking, horse riding, ice caving or whale watching, Iceland is an adventure playground for nature lovers.

You can ride Icelandic horses across Iceland’s diverse terrain exploring from volcanic plains to green grassland. Alternatively, hiking on Solheimajokull allows you to explore the glacier, where you enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes.

3. Northern Lights

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. From September to April, visitors have the chance to witness the stunning colors that light up the sky, especially in remote areas far from the city lights.

4. Spectacular Waterfalls

Iceland is home to numerous beautiful and dramatic waterfalls offering a unique spectacle of nature’s power and charm, thanks to its unique landscape shaped by glaciers, volcanic activity, and an abundance of rivers.

Whether you want to hike to the hidden cave and stand behind the cascading water like Seljalandsfoss, experience their roaring power of Skógafoss at the close range or witness the beauty of contrast between the Svartifoss white water and the dark lava columns, the waterfalls are a must-see.

5. Relax In Geothermal Hot Springs

Iceland’s geothermal activity creates many natural hot springs scattered across the country. One of the most famous geothermal spas in the world, the Blue Lagoon offers a luxurious spa experience, while place like Reykjadalur valley provides hot spring thermal river. You can hike and find a good spot in the river to soak and relax.

6. Golden Circle Route

The Golden Circle is the most popular scenic route in Iceland that includes three major highlights: Thingvellir National Park, the Strokkur geyser, and Gullfoss Waterfall, in an easy-to-access loop.

Its closeness to Reykjavík, diverse attractions as well as the short drive between the sightseeing make it a convenient itinerary for travelers, especially those visiting Iceland for the first time.

7. Midnight Sun and Long Summer Days

During the summer months, from mid-May to mid-July, Iceland experiences the Midnight Sun, where the sun sets very late into the night. This phenomenon allows for long days of exploration, giving you the chance to make the most of the nearly endless light like late-night hiking, sightseeing, or even whale watching!

8. Rich Viking History and Culture

Viking culture is deeply intertwined into Icelandic history and identity. The Viking started arriving to Iceland and settled by late 9th century and their influences can still be seen in the country’s culture, language, traditions and values today.

Whether you are a history enthusiast or a traveler seeking to learn about a different culture, the National Museum of Iceland, the Saga Museum, or Viking Village offer an exploration of Iceland’s Viking heritage.

9. Safe and Ease of Travel

Iceland ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. It has a well-developed infrastructure and well-maintained roads making it easy to explore and navigate even for first-time travelers.

10. Wildlife Watching

You can go whale watching off the coast in the north, see puffins during their nesting season along the coastal cliffs, and even spot reindeer in the east. Thanks to the country’s distinctive landscapes, remote wildness areas and abundant marine life, Iceland is a paradise for wildlife lovers who love to observe both on land and in the surrounding waters.

11. Reykjavik: A Lively Capital City

Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is a small but vibrant and fascinating city that serves as the heart of Iceland’s culture, history, natural beauty, and modern life.

While it’s relatively small compared to other European capitals, Reykjavik offers a mix of urban and easy access to natural wonders. Everything such cafés, museums, and music scene, is closed by making it convenient to explore by foot or bike. It’s also a hub for Icelandic cuisine, where you can try traditional dishes like lamb, fresh fish, Skyr and the local favorite Icelandic hot dog.

Why Not To Visit Iceland?

While Iceland is a dream vacation for many, there are a few reasons why some travelers might have second thoughts before visiting.

1. High Cost of Almost Everything

Iceland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. From accommodations and food to transportation and activities, the expenses can quickly add up during your trip. Dining out can be quite pricey and rental cars, guided tours or excursions often come with significant price tags. Budget-conscious travelers may find it challenging to keep the costs low.

2. Unpredictable Weather

Iceland’s weather can be harsh and frequently changed with conditions shifting from sunshine to heavy rain or strong wind within minutes, even in the summer, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. In winter, the combination of icy roads, short daylight hours and sub-zero temperatures can make travel challenging, especially for those are unfamiliar with such situations.

3. Limited Urban Culture and Night Life

For those who seek urban environments with bustling nightlife, large shopping districts, or lot of entertainment options, Iceland might not meet expectations. Reykjavik, the capital, is small compared to other European capitals.

Additionally, due to Iceland’s remoteness, long drives are often required to reach key attractions, especially outside of Reykjavik. Some visitors may not enjoy the long drives, particularly if they are looking for a more convenient or varied vacation experience itinerary.

These factors may not outweigh Iceland’s many other attractions, but it is important to take them into consideration when planning a trip to ensure it matches your travel preferences and expectations.

FAQs

In this FAQ, we’ll address some of the most common questions that you may have about visiting Iceland, and other travel-related topics.

How many days do you need in Iceland?

The number of days to spend in Iceland depends on the type of experience you’re looking for, but 5 to 7 days is sufficient for a well-rounded exploration. You could easily visit some of Iceland’s most memorable sights, like the Golden Circle, Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon, and even explore farther along the South Coast to see glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches.

For those who have less time, a trip of 3 to 4 days allows for exploration in Reykjavik and day trips to nearby attractions like the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle.

Is Iceland expensive to visit?

Yes, Iceland is known for being an expensive destination to visit. From accommodation to dining and activities, costs in Iceland tend to be high due to its remote location and high import prices.

However, there are ways to manage your travel expenses while visiting. You can save by opting for affordable accommodation such as guesthouses, hostels, or camping. Instead of eating out for every meal, you can visit local markets for fresh and affordable food or choose accommodations with kitchen facilities so that you can purchase groceries and prepare some meals yourself. Many of Iceland’s attractions, such as its gorgeous waterfalls, geothermal areas, and hiking trails are free to visit.

What’s the best month to go to Iceland?

The best month to visit Iceland depends on what you want to experience, but for those who seek pleasant weather and ability to access to most of the country’s natural attractions, especially first time travelers, June through August is generally considered the best time to visit. During these summer months, travelers can enjoy the midnight sun with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The weather is mild with average temperatures between 10°C to 13°C, and most roads, including those in the highlands, are accessible.

For those who want to see the Northern Lights or visit the spectacular ice caves, October through March is ideal. However, you’ll need to remember that the weather in Iceland can be highly unpredictable (even in the summer), so always prepare for harsher weather conditions and limited accessibility to some remote areas due to snow and ice.

Summary: Why Iceland Is Worth Visiting

I hope this post makes you feel inspired to visit Iceland. Its striking natural beauty, combined with its rich cultural heritage and outdoor activities, makes it a destination truly worth visiting that will leave you with lasting memories and a profound appreciation for its charm.