You probably know that Iceland is one of those countries where it’s either almost always dark or completely light, a great place to go to Northern Lights spotting, and a place where pro surfers go on exotic surf trips. But there’s so much more to learn about this fascinating country which measures a compact 103.000 sq. km in total (meaning it’s very smart to do a car hire in Iceland because it’s so drivable!), has no military forces, is home to around 330.000 people – 10% foreign-born, and that it has tons of fabulous sights to see and places to visit should you decide to book a short break in that area.
For added comfort and convenience you should also consider renting a campervan in Iceland. Choose a camper that matches your budget. Also, keep in mind that some of the roads in Iceland can be very challenging and require a 4×4 vehicle. On the other hand with the numerous benefits of van travel Iceland can be the perfect place for camper van travel, just imagine waking up next to a volcano or a local hot spring.
There’s much more to see and do in Iceland than most people ever really imagine, and here we share details on just a handful of them.
Reykjavik
Reykjavik is smaller than the average internationally known city, boasting only around 200,000 residents in total, but it’s packed with a whole lot to see and do and really deserves at least a couple of days of your time. This was the first place to become a permanent homestead in Iceland, and its rich history is very evident in the architecture and museums you will come across, but it’s also a great cultural experience, with top class concert halls, both formal and street art and amazing food for you to enjoy.
Take an organized walking tour with a local expert to see the major sights, go DIY and buy a City Card for unlimited local transport and free entry into major attractions, or for a more leisurely experience do the same on a hop on/off bus with commentary.
The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)
15 islands plus lots of rocks and cliffs make up this set of beautiful islands located 70km of Iceland’s southern coast. Only one has a human population, (that’s Heimaey with around 4000 people), but a massive colony of puffins are also permanent residents. Some homes there remain buried under the volcanic ash which the longtime dormant volcano Eldfell erupted suddenly back in January 1973.
Reynisfjara
One of Iceland’s most famous and beautiful black sand beaches, with craggy cliffs said to be the frozen faces of gorgons! (Iceland is definitely a great place for folklore tales.)
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Diamond Beach
Just down the coast from Reynisfjara is this stunning lagoon, home to lots of icebergs which have made their way there on the ocean’s swell after having broken away from a nearby glacial tongue. Then there’s the mesmerizing Diamond Beach with more black sand, and the Northern Lights which are often seen from this spot.
The Blue Lagoon Spa
A famous geothermal spa with milky-blue water like you have never seen before. The water is full of minerals and other things that are good for your skin, and many visitors believe they have experienced physical and emotional healing after a visit.
Frakkar a Popular Traditional Restaurant
Old style décor and a menu to match. Try the ‘fish hash’, a dish invented centuries ago to use up leftover fish from weekday meals, or risk the fermented (rotten) shark delicacy.