What to Do in Iceland? The Ultimate Guide for Your Iceland Adventure

1. Explore the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular routes, and for good reason. In just a few hours of driving, you can experience:

• Þingvellir National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage site where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet.
• Geysir Geothermal Area – Watch Strokkur erupt every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters high.
• Gullfoss Waterfall – A powerful, two-tier waterfall that looks stunning in every season.

It’s an easy, accessible route—perfect for your first Icelandic road trip.

2. Discover the South Coast

If you want dramatic scenery, the South Coast will not disappoint. Along this route you’ll find:

• Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss – Two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls.
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Famous for its basalt columns and roaring waves.
• Sólheimajökull Glacier – A great spot for a guided glacier hike.
• Vík Village – A charming coastal town with beautiful landscapes.

Driving the South Coast is a must-do for photography lovers and nature enthusiasts.

3. Bathe in Geothermal Hot Springs

Relaxing in hot water surrounded by Icelandic nature is an unforgettable experience. Popular options include:

• The Blue Lagoon – Luxurious and iconic.
• The Sky Lagoon – Stunning ocean views and a unique 7-step ritual.
• Secret Lagoon – A more traditional and historic hot spring.
  You’ll find many smaller local pools and natural hot springs around the country as well—perfect for a quiet soak.

4. Chase the Northern Lights (Winter Only)

From September to April, Iceland becomes one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights.
Renting a car allows you to:

• Escape light pollution
• Follow the cloud forecast
• Find the best viewing spots
  Some of the best regions include Þingvellir, the South Coast, and areas just outside Reykjavík.

5. Drive the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Often called “Iceland in Miniature,” this region has a little bit of everything:

• Lava fields
• Waterfalls
• Black-sand beaches
• Volcanic craters
• The famous Kirkjufell mountain

It’s an ideal full-day road trip from Reykjavík.

6. Explore Reykjavík

Before or after your road trip, take time to enjoy Iceland’s vibrant capital:

• Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church
• Walk the colorful streets of downtown
• Explore museums, cafés, and street art
• Enjoy the lively nightlife

Reykjavík is small but full of character.

7. Take a Glacier or Ice Cave Tour

If you’re visiting in winter, exploring an ice cave inside a glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Popular glaciers include:

• Vatnajökull
• Langjökull
• Mýrdalsjökull

These tours require guides, but driving to the meeting point is easy with a rental car.

Why Explore Iceland by Car?

Driving in Iceland gives you:

• Total freedom to explore at your own pace
• Access to hidden gems off the main tourist routes
• The ability to stop for photos whenever the scenery inspires you (which is often)
• A comfortable way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty

From paved roads to adventurous mountain routes (in summer), renting a car is simply the best way to see Iceland.