27 most unique things to do in Iceland

Looking for the most iconic and unique things to do in Iceland? Here’s how to prepare for an epic Icelandic adventure!

Iceland is one of the most amazing countries in the world.

It’s got everything from hot springs like the Blue Lagoon to seeing the Northern Lights. Plus, there are volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls you can’t miss.

If you’re after things to do that you can’t find anywhere else, Iceland’s got you covered.

In this post, I’ll share the most unique activities and sights that make Iceland a must-visit.

Let’s go!

27 unique things to do in Iceland

1. Explore the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is just a short drive from Reykjavik and the airport. Here, you can relax in geothermal waters rich in minerals like silica and sulfur.

You can visit all year round (the water is hot!), and trust me when I say – it’s unforgettable.

Make sure to book your visit in advance, as this is one of Iceland’s top attractions.

2. Go whale watching in Húsavík

Known as the whale watching capital, Húsavík offers you a close encounter with majestic sea creatures.

It’s your chance to see humpback and minke whales in their natural habitat. Tours usually run from April to October.

🐳 Book here – Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík

3. Snorkel in Silfra Fissure

Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure gives you a view of the spot where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.

The water’s clarity is unmatched, offering visibility up to 100 meters.

🤿 Book here – Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates

4. Visit the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón is a must-see glacial lagoon, where you can witness icebergs breaking off from the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull.

You can take a boat tour through stunning blue icebergs to get a better look!

5. Soak in Mývatn Nature Baths

The Mývatn Nature Baths are a less crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

This geothermal spa is located in the north of Iceland, and soaking here offers a view of beautiful landscapes and volcanoes.

6. Kayak among Icebergs

For a more active experience, kayaking in Jökulsárlón puts you at water level among the massive ice formations.

It’s a unique way to explore one of Iceland’s natural wonders and get up close to icebergs.

7. Visit Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss is a spectacular sight year-round, with its roaring water plunging into a rugged canyon.

Walking the trails around the waterfall lets you experience Iceland’s raw power and dramatic scenery, especially when it’s framed by ice in the winter or surrounded by luscious green in the summer.

8. Walk along Black Sand Beach, Reynisfjara

The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is famous for its striking basalt columns, roaring Atlantic waves, and the nearby Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

The contrast of the black sand against the foam of the waves is a must-see and makes for a unique hiking backdrop during your Icelandic road trip.

9. Discover Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO site and filming location of Games of Thrones where you can walk among the rifts caused by the separation of two tectonic plates.

In summer, the valley is a lush vista, while winter often brings a magical coating of snow to the park’s geological marvels.

10. Hike to Glymur Waterfall

At 198 meters (650 feet), Glymur is Iceland’s second-highest waterfall!

The trail rewards you with stunning views of the waterfall as well as the surrounding landscapes, making it perfect for both summer and winter hiking.

11. Explore Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park

Skaftafell, part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park, is full of of glaciers, peaks, and volcanoes.

You can choose from various trails, including paths that lead you directly to glacier tongues during summer for a thrilling glacier hike. You can also do ice cave tours during winter!

🧊 Book here – Ice Cave Tour

12. Climb Mount Esja

Close to Reykjavík is Mount Esja with a range of hiking trails.

In summer, you’ll see a variety of Icelandic flora, and in winter, you may find parts of the trail covered in snow, requiring appropriate gear.

You can also do a helicopter tour from Reykjavik!

🚁 Book here – Helicopter Tour with landing at Mount Esja

13. Hike in Landmannalaugar

Head to Landmannalaugar to traverse through multicolored rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and hot springs.

This area is perfect for both day hikes and longer treks, particularly in the summer months when the Highland roads are accessible.

⛰️ Book here – Adventure in Landmannalaugar and Hot Springs

14. Explore the Icelandic Highlands

With some of the most remote and dramatic landscapes, the Icelandic Highlands are filled with lava fields, rugged mountains, and expansive valleys.

Venturing here, especially during summer, is an unforgettable hiking experience in unspoiled nature.

🥾 Book here – Small Group Tour of Valley of Tears and Highlands

15. See Dettifoss Waterfall

Dettifoss is Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Just look at the photo below of its huge volumes of water plunging into a deep canyon.

The area’s trails give you a front-row seat to this natural wonder and are accessible during the summer months when the nearby roads are open.

16. See the Northern Lights

In winter, you have the chance to see the Northern Lights, a natural light display that fills the night sky with otherworldly colors.

The best time to catch this phenomenon is from October to March when the nights are darkest.

✨ Book here – #1 Northern Lights Tour with PRO photos

17. Tour the Golden Circle

When you tour the Golden Circle, you’re seeing some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring sights.

Thingvellir National Park, the gushing geysers of Geysir, and the thundering Gullfoss waterfall are the stars of the show.

🚌 Book here – Small-Group Golden Circle Tour and Secret Lagoon

18. Visit the Westfjords

Remote and majestically wild, the Westfjords are a testament to Iceland’s nickname, the “land of fire and ice.”

Go off the beaten path to experience towering cliffs, breathtaking fjords, and the chance to spot seals basking on the beaches.

19. Experience the midnight sun

During summer, the sun barely dips below the horizon.

Experiencing the Midnight Sun means you’ve got more daylight to explore, whether you’re photographing Kirkjufell mountain or hiking through the untouched beauty of the highlands.

20. Explore lava caves

Lava caves like Thrihnukagigur gives you a unique opportunity to explore Iceland’s volcanic underworld.

Don your helmet and descend into a world formed by eruptions, witnessing the raw power that shaped this land.

21. Visit the Arctic Henge

Up in the northeast, the Arctic Henge is like a nod to the old Norse myths.

This circle of stones set up to line up with the stars gives you a little peek into Iceland’s love for stories about elves and trolls.

22. Visit the settlement exhibition

In Reykjavik, the Settlement Exhibition offers a glimpse into the lives of Iceland’s earliest inhabitants.

Here, you’ll meet the Viking Age up close and learn stories of the famed Norse explorer, Leif the Lucky.

🪖 Book here – Settlement and Egils Saga Exhibition Ticket

23. Take a super jeep tour

Super Jeep tours are your ticket to accessing Iceland’s more remote and jaw-dropping sights.

These hefty vehicles muscle through rough terrain to bring you close to glaciers, volcanoes, and Iceland’s rugged highlands.

👉🏼 Book here – Golden Circle Super-Jeep Tour and Snowmobiling

24. Go horseback riding

Saddle up and experience Iceland’s beauty on horseback.

Ride the unique Icelandic horse, known for its five gaits, and traverse lava fields, rolling hills, and coastal paths.

🐴 Book here – Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik

25. Ice climbing on Sólheimajökull Glacier

For a cold rush, try ice climbing on Sólheimajökull Glacier.

You’ll use ice axes and crampons to ascend the icy expanse, guided by experts familiar with the glacier’s ever-changing conditions.

Book here – Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour

26. Paraglide over Vik

Get a bird’s-eye view of Iceland’s stunning landscapes by paragliding over Vik.

You’ll soar along the coast and over green hills, taking in views of the Atlantic Ocean and black sand beaches.

🪂 Book here – Tandem Paragliding Flights from Vik

27. Visit Diamond Beach

No need to just stare at the ice. You can walk amongst icebergs on Diamond Beach.

This black sand beach gets its sparkle from the ice chunks that wash ashore. It’s right next to Jokulsarlon, so make sure to visit!

FAQ – Unique things to do in Iceland

What is the most unique thing in Iceland?

The most unique thing in Iceland has got to be seeing the Northern Lights. It’s an incredible light show in the sky.

What is the number one thing to do in Iceland?

The number one thing to do in Iceland is to visit the Blue Lagoon.

It’s famous for its geothermal spa where you can relax in warm, mineral-rich waters amidst a stunning volcanic landscape.

What is the most famous thing in Iceland?

Besides the Blue Lagoon and the Northern Lights, Iceland’s waterfalls are the most famous feature.

The Gullfoss Waterfall is a famous landmark in Iceland, known for its spectacular beauty and immense power as it cascades down a rugged canyon.

What is the ultimate Iceland experience?

The ultimate Iceland experience is seeing the Northern Lights, relaxing in the Blue Lagoon, touring the Golden Circle to see Gullfoss and Geysir, and checking out big waterfalls like Skógafoss. It’s the best mix of what makes Iceland special.

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• 25 interesting facts about Iceland

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