Is Iceland Worth Visiting In 2024? Most Definitely & Here’s Why!
Is Iceland worth visiting? Are you trying to answer that question as you plan your next trip?
This blog post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more information.
Iceland is high on most people’s travel bucket lists. The dramatic landscape, the soothing geothermal springs, and the amazing, friendly people answer the question – Is Iceland worth visiting?
It’s a resounding yes!
Let’s find out why it should be high on your travel to-do list.
Is Iceland Worth Visiting In 2024?
Iceland has been gaining popularity as an amazingly unique destination for many reasons. It won’t do Iceland any justice to just list the reasons out. We need to share a few more details to help you make an informed travel decision.
5 Examples of What Makes Iceland So Special
There are numerous reasons why people often say that Iceland is a special and unique place to visit. From its beauty and wildlife, to its culture, to the opportunity to play in a natural paradise, Iceland has something to please everyone.
Natural Beauty
1) The stunning natural beauty of the landscape and the creatures that live there make Iceland a nature-lover’s paradise. Glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs, geysers, and black sand beaches all attract people to Iceland. We’ll cover these land features more in depth in a bit. The environment alone is enough to draw in visitors from all around the world.
Wildlife in Iceland
2) In addition to the natural setting, the animals that live there also have their fans. Whale watching is a huge draw from April through to late Autumn. The peak months are June, July, and August for spotting them. Arctic foxes are the only land animal native to Iceland and have either white or blue fur. You can also spot reindeer, seals, orcas, puffins, and the Icelandic horses and sheep, along with a few other species.
Clean Environment
3) Iceland is known for its clean air, clean water, and low pollution levels. The country has a small population who practice dedication and commitment to environmental sustainability. Make sure you respect their dedication to keeping Iceland as clean as possible.
Icelandic Culture and History
4) The culture and history of Iceland is distinct from that of other Nordic countries. Icelandic culture is shaped by the rugged landscape and isolation. The Icelandic language, which descends from Old Norse, is still spoken and has changed relatively little over the centuries. Icelanders place great value on literature, storytelling, and the preservation of their language. Icelandic literature, music, and art are highly valued around the world.
Adventure Tourism in Iceland
5) Iceland offers a wide range of adventure activities due to its unique and diverse natural landscapes. Adventure tourism is extremely popular with activities such as glacier climbing, skiing, snorkeling, diving, hiking, trekking, white-water rafting, and volcano tours. If adrenaline-pumping adventures are on your list of things to experience in Iceland, then you have come to the right place.
Is there anything to do in Iceland?
After reading about what makes Iceland so special, you know there are many sights to see and activities to keep you busy. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, this is your playground. Window-shopping and the cafe experience more your cup of tea? Then wander down the streets of the city to enjoy the busy streets. There are plenty of things to do in Iceland during your visit.
Why should you visit Iceland?
Is Iceland worth visiting this year? Most definitely!
The landscape has an otherworldly feel to it and must be seen to be believed. Everything seems bigger and fresher, more dramatic and just waiting for you to explore.
The people are kind and friendly and share a strong sense of national identity. They are proud of their island nation and welcome you to experience it in all its rugged beauty. Please just promise to respect it as much as they do.
Must-See Iceland Attractions & Things To Do
Is Iceland worth visiting this year? You review some of these amazing places to see or things to do and tell me what you think!
✅ The Blue Lagoon
Our visit to the Blue Lagoon was the highlight of our 5 days in Iceland. If you want to read more specifically about the Blue Lagoon, then check out this blog post.
The Blue Lagoon is a man-made geothermal spa and one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. Known for its warm, blue waters, rich mineral content, and stunning surroundings, this is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland. The waters are soothing and especially fantastic if you visit in the wintertime. The contrast between the steamy waters and the cool outside air creates mysterious swirling clouds of mist.
Choose your Blue Lagoon option by clicking here.
👉 Because the Blue Lagoon is not far from the airport, many people stop here as soon as they arrive in the country. Others make this their last stop before leaving. There is transport available from the airport. If you prefer to visit another time, then make sure to ask about the available transportation from your hotel to this amazing destination.
The Blue Lagoon closed for safety reasons after the volcanic eruptions in late 2023. January 2024 saw the reopening of the area to tourism. Please check the news for any possible issues before finalizing your plans, or speak with your travel agent. If you don't have an agent already, I'm available for booking your trip! 😉Click here to get in touch.
✅ Golden Circle Tour
This popular tourist route includes three main stops – Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. We did this tour the first day we arrived and it was a tremendous introduction to the Icelandic landscape. The coach bus is comfortable and transports you from the main bus station to the sights.
Although the sites were easy to access, the waterfall area can be slippery if you go during the wintertime. We were there in early December and the cold winds blew the mist toward the walkways coating them in ice. Even though the steps down had a railing, I didn’t take a chance with my falling on the ice. Be careful!
Click here to book this bus tour.
✅ Go Whale Watching
Iceland is one of the best places in the world for whale watching and they are regularly spotted in its coastal waters. The best time for whale watching in Iceland is from April to late September-early October, with the summer months of June, July and August recognized as the peak whale watching season.
Peak season may be the summertime, but the weather in Iceland can change quickly. Be prepared for cooler weather out on the water and dress in layers if it suddenly gets colder.
Click here for the Classic Icelandic Whale Watching Tour.
✅ Experience the Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, a natural phenomenon caused by electrically charged particles from the sun. We chased the darn Northern Lights to several places far from the glow of the city.
Eventually, people were getting discouraged and the driver stopped at a convenience store/cafe rest stop. My family members went inside for a drink but I waited on the bus because my ankle was hurting a bit. While they were standing in line to buy their hot chocolates, another passenger excitedly alerted the few of us still on the bus.
The Northern Lights were dancing in the sky! I was transfixed. By the time I did take a picture, the clouds were rolling in again and here is my evidence. I still want to see them again, this time in all their colorful glory.
There are many options to see the Northern Lights. Look them over here.
✅ Explore Reykjavik
Iceland’s capital city is a vibrant and colorful destination, known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural scene, and buzzing nightlife. Find a tour or experience that will suit your needs. And read on for more details about Reykjavik.
Search for your Reykjavik experience by clicking here.
Is Reykjavik, Iceland Worth Visiting?
I absolutely loved walking around Reykjavik! The downtown area is compact and you can reach many areas of the city with an easy stroll. I was walking with a cane on this trip and found I could manage if I took it slowly. We window-shopped on Laugavegur Street and walked up the hill to Hallsgrimskirkja, the stunning church at the top of the hill.
My aunts took the hop-on-hop-off bus that travels around the city and explored that way. With my cane I wasn’t sure I could be hopping on or off anything, so walking slowly was the option I chose.
Surrounding Landscape
Reykjavik is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to geothermal hot springs. Views of the Old Harbor can be seen from many vantage points. The city also has plenty of parks and green spaces, so you can enjoy nature without leaving the city limits.
Reykjavik Art Scene
Reykjavik has a vibrant arts scene and a strong literary tradition, which is reflected in its many museums, galleries, and cultural events. You’ll also find a thriving music scene, with plenty of local bands and international acts playing in the city.
Restaurants in the City
Plenty of restaurants give Reykjavik a great culinary scene. They serve traditional Icelandic fare as well as international cuisine. There are also lots of cozy cafes and bars where you can sample assorted coffees and teas or local beer.
The food may be first-class, but so are the costs. Most foods need to be imported and this is reflected in their prices. Just be prepared.
Safety in Reykjavik
Iceland consistently ranks as one of the safest and cleanest countries in the world, and Reykjavik is no exception. You’ll feel safe walking around the city even at night, and the streets and public spaces are impeccably clean. We explored parts of Reykjavik near our hotel and were never concerned for our safety.
Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, food, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, you won’t be disappointed by a visit to Iceland’s capital.
Where To Stay In Reykjavik
Because most everything is imported to the island, prices in the city may be higher than expected. If you are making Reykjavik your home base, then choosing to rent an apartment may be your best bet. Along with the higher prices for accommodations, food is also quite pricey. An apartment rental may save you some money by making your meals in your own kitchen.
📍Sunny Reykjavik Apartment
This apartment is in the heart of the city and a short 3-minute walk from the shops on Laugavegur Street. With free wi-fi and parking, this apartment offers 1 bedroom, a fully-equipped kitchen, living room, and a bathroom.
Be close to many attractions like Hallgrimskirkja Church and the Reykjavik Art Museum. This apartment is very popular, so make sure to book well in advance.
Click here for more details about this sunny apartment.
📍Hotel Reykjavik Saga
This hotel has an excellent rating and is 0.7 miles from the city center. Breakfast is included in this 4-star hotel stay, either a buffet or continental style.
The rooms include a seating area, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs and a private bathroom with shower. The hotel also offers a sauna.
Popular attractions nearby include Reykjavik Old Harbor, Solar Sun Voyager, and the Harpa Concert Hall. Enjoy an extra bit of comfort while exploring the city of Reykjavik.
Click here for more information for this 4-star hotel.
Are the Geothermal Pools Worth Visiting?
Yes. It’s as simple as that.
The geothermal pools in Iceland are definitely worth visiting. Iceland is known for its stunning natural beauty and the geothermal pools are no exception. Hot springs create these pools and create a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for visitors.
The most famous geothermal pool in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon, which is located in a lava field and is known for its therapeutic benefits. However, there are many other geothermal pools in Iceland that are equally beautiful and offer a unique experience.
- Myvatn Nature Baths
- Landmannalaugar Hot Springs
- Secret Lagoon
- Laugarvatn Fontana
- Hveravellir Hot Springs
- Reykjadalur Hot Springs
- Sky Lagoon
- Forest Lagoon
Whether you are looking to relax and unwind, or to explore Iceland’s natural wonders, I highly recommend a visit to the geothermal pools. This list is not complete, but covers some of the more well-known geothermal spots, and some of the newer ones too.
My Suggestions for the geothermal pools
I have only experienced the Blue Lagoon when I traveled to Iceland. With its amenities and large bathing area, this experience is not to be missed. The soothing water felt wonderful on my ankle and I wished I could stay in the water forever.
We purchased the extra services with the mud facials and a complimentary drink. Here we are enjoying our drinks and facials. My skin felt so smooth afterwards.
Forever may be a bit too long so plan for at least 3-4 hours at the minimum to enjoy it to the fullest. This will include getting into your bathing suit and then into the water. Make sure to stop here during your Icelandic adventure. You will thank me later.
📍Guesthouse Grund
This guesthouse has a wonderful rating online and is located just 3.1 miles from the Blue Lagoon. Some of the units have kitchens equipped with a microwave and an oven. Be close to the Blue Lagoon and stay in comfort while saving some money and have free wi-fi and parking.
Check out the guesthouse by clicking here.
📍The Northern Light Inn
The inn is located just 0.6 miles from the Blue Lagoon and offers a free shuttle for guests. There is also a shuttle available to bring you to the airport for a fee.
The Northern Light Inn is a family-run with a wellness spa, a fitness room, and a fireplace lounge. Their on-site restaurant serves Icelandic dishes and provides beautiful views over the Reykjanes Peninsula. Staff can help book horseback rides and bike rentals on site.
If a little bit of luxury is in your plans when visiting the Blue Lagoon, then definitely check out this place here.
Tips for Getting the Most out of the Geothermal Pools
Plan your stay for the geothermal pool and make sure to check for details about booking tickets in advance. Many of the more popular pools can sell out quickly during peak times. We purchased our Blue Lagoon tickets months in advance.
Do not feel the need to pay the extra fee for the robe and towels. Although we did pay the fee, it wasn’t worth it. Once outside, just before you enter the water, there are open cubicles to store your clean, dry robe and towel. The only problem was that people leaving the lagoon just grabbed your dry towel and robe as they left. There is nothing to prevent them from taking your towel or robe. In its place was left a sopping wet towel and robe that someone else discarded. Yuck!
Your reason to go to the geothermal pool is to relax, so definitely enjoy your time. Enjoy the soothing waters and the breathtaking scenery all around you. Take some time to yourself.
If you plan to take pictures while at the pools, I recommend this waterproof protector for your smartphone. My daughter used it while we were in the water and the pictures came out just fine. The best part is her phone was dry. Click here to check it out.
How Many Days Do You Need In Iceland?
The number of days you should spend in Iceland depends on your travel goals and itinerary. Iceland has a lot to offer, from stunning landscapes, geothermal hot springs, glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and much more.
For a basic visit to Iceland, I would recommend spending at least 5-7 days, which should give you enough time to explore the highlights of the country such as the Golden Circle, Reykjavik, and the South Coast.
However, if you want to experience more of Iceland’s nature, you might consider spending more time. For example, if you want to visit the Westfjords, the Eastfjords, or the Highlands, you should consider adding more days to your trip. Similarly, if you want to engage in activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, or whale watching, you might want to stay longer to make the most of your trip.
Overall, I would say that spending around 7-10 days in Iceland is ideal, as it gives you enough time to see the highlights and experience the unique culture and natural beauty of the country.
What Do I Need to Pack for Iceland?
When packing for a trip to Iceland, it’s important to keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for various conditions. Also adapt the clothes you bring to match the season you travel in.
🧥Warm Clothing
Iceland’s average temperature can range from 0 to 20 degrees Celsius depending on the season. This is about 68 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to pack warm and comfortable clothes. Think layers, including thermal underwear, a warm sweater or fleece jacket, and a waterproof and windproof jacket.
🥾Waterproof Shoes
With Iceland’s wet and slippery terrain, waterproof shoes or boots are a must. Consider packing shoes with good grip, especially if you plan on hiking or walking on glaciers. Also consider water shoes if going into one of the geothermal pools.
🩱Swimsuit and Towel
It’s a good idea to pack a swimsuit and towel if you plan on taking a dip in one of these geothermal pools. Icelandic people love their hot springs and you should experience it too.
📸Camera
Don’t forget to pack your camera or smartphone to capture all the memorable moments. Iceland is a beautiful country with stunning landscapes that you will want to remember.
🔌Travel Adapter
The electric sockets in Iceland are the Europlug (Type C and F). So if you’re coming from a country that uses a different plug type, be sure to pack a travel adapter. You can get one suitable for Iceland by clicking here.
🧤Hat, Gloves, and a Scarf
The weather in Iceland can be windy and chilly, so packing a hat, gloves, and scarf can help keep you warm and cozy. These do not take up too much packing space and it’s better to be prepared for anything.
🕶️Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Even though Iceland is known for its cold climate, the sun can still be strong, especially during the summer months. And the glare from the snow can also be hard on your eyes and skin. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
💳Cash and Credit Card
While Iceland is generally a cashless society, it’s still a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or in case of emergency. Also be sure to bring a credit card that works internationally. Just remember to let your credit card company know you will be traveling so they don’t block any purchases.
Conclusion: Is Iceland Worth Visiting In 2024?
I consider Iceland one of the most uniques places I have visited so far. The landscape ranges from stark and otherworldly to lush and green. Depending on which season you visit in, the entire feeling of the land can vary drastically.
The people are kind and welcoming, but please make sure to follow their rules and be considerate of the land and its people. Iceland is one of the places I must travel back to because there were so many experiences I haven’t had yet. This is a place you will not regret traveling to. Enjoy!
