Boasting gorgeous geysers, rugged volcanos and sparkling waterfalls; it is easy to see why Iceland is such a popular destination to visit. Besides its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and dramatic scenery, the isolated island also has some atmospheric little towns and villages for you to stop by alongside its cool capital Reykjavik.
Surrounded by the freezing cold waters of the North Atlantic, Iceland lies in between Greenland and the Faroe Islands with both Norway and the United Kingdom lying over 750 kilometers away. Very geologically and volcanically active, it is mostly made up of endless tundra with mountains, glaciers and lava fields dotted here and there. Lining its shores, you can find lots of windswept beaches and cliffs with fantastic fjords also punctuating its long coastline.
The main city of note is its capital Reykjavik which is home to around two-thirds of Iceland’s entire population. The center of culture and life on the island, it has a cute and colorful old town for you to explore with surprisingly good music, theater and nightlife scenes being on offer. One of its most popular attractions is the famous Blue Lagoon which lies just to the southwest of the city.
After having landed in Reykjavik and seen the sights, most people venture off to explore the Golden Circle; an epic one-day circuit that encompasses both Gullfoss and Thingvellir National Park. While the former is an absolutely stunning waterfall, the latter contains lots of unique geological features with volcanic fissures, lakes and river valleys on show alongside interesting falls and historic sites.
Visitors with more time on their hands often drive along the romantic ring road that encircles all the island. This takes you past such wonders as the spellbinding Seljalandfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, the beautiful black Reynisfjara Beach and the incredible Crystal Caves of the Vatnajokull Glacier.
On top of driving about its delightful yet desolate landscapes, clambering up towering volcanos and gazing at geysers and glaciers, you can take unforgettable sightseeing cruises and whale watching trips up and down its coast with whales, dolphins and seals all regularly spotted.