Summer is a great time to visit Iceland! The summer days seem endless as the sun shines nearly 24 hours a day around the solstice and the weather is mild. You can take to the open road in a rental car, book exciting tours, and do all kinds of cool stuff. As a long-time resident of Iceland, I’ve listed the must-see attractions to help you discover and fall in love with this breathtaking country.
Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our Iceland Guide for more resources, the best restaurants, and where to stay in Reykjavík.
17 Amazing Things To See and Do In Iceland
The land of fire and ice has a lot of cool things to do for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and even travelers looking for solitude and serenity. You can easily road trip around the country, hike in glorious landscapes, relax in geothermal pools, explore ancient lava caves, visit remote towns, sail among icebergs, and get up close to the region’s wildlife.
One of the most common things to do in Iceland in the summer is to drive the entire loop of the country on Route 1, called the Ring Road.Some of the most popular attractions and activities are just off the Ring Road (think: Reynisfjara, Kirkjufell mountain, Jökulsárlón, and many more).
Before we jump in, I must note that the summer in Iceland is very different from the winter. You can expect lots of sunlight and mild temperatures in the summer. The winter, however, while beautiful is more challenging. Roads can be icy and dangerous, some attractions we’ve included below are unreachable, and if you’re unaccustomed to winter driving, guided tours are an absolute must for safety reasons.
On the other hand, summer is a great time to visit Iceland with long days and the midnight sun where you have a lot of time each day to be outside, take in the beautiful landscape, and enjoy fun activities. Every region of Iceland is represented on this list so no matter where you are, you can hit up the top things to do in Iceland in the summer.
17. Gallop Across Iceland’s Breathtaking Landscape on Horseback
Horse Riding I Afternoon Outdoors I Reykjavík (South)
Sure to take your breath away, heading out on Iceland’s iconic native horses is a fantastic way to explore the rugged landscape of the land of fire and ice. The horses are an adorably stocky breed but don‘t call them ponies—they‘re horses.
These iconic purebred horses are easy to spot, not just by their short stature but their fluffy manes and thick coats. The first members of the breed came over with the early settlers and are a celebrated part of the Icelandic culture and landscape.
Incredibly gentle, Icelandic horses are perfect for riders of every level and tours are appropriate for all ages. They can be booked year-round, but there‘s nothing quite like riding Iceland’s native horse against a backdrop of waterfalls or lava fields in summer.
Where to go horse riding: Ishestar Horse Riding Center | Cost: Starts at $90
16. Go Off the Beaten Path at Iceland’s Island Gem: Flatey
Island Sightseeing I Overnight I Flatey (West)
Flatey Island is as off the beaten path as it gets. The remoteness you’ll experience here is unique and it’s one of my favorite places in Iceland. The tiny island doesn‘t allow cars, has one dirt road, and not much has changed on this island in centuries.
Only reachable by one ferry, the island is north of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and an ideal visit for bird-watching, taking leisurely walks, and meeting lovely locals. The island has one hotel, Hotel Flatey, and it’s very much a seasonal destination.
Hotel Flatey: location, photos, and booking
15. Hit the Trail in the Otherworldly Highlands of Þórsmörk
Hiking I Full Day I Highlands (South)
From one remote location to another, Þórsmörk is a hiker’s haven that’s not easy to get to and only accessible in summer. If hiking in an otherworldly landscape of waterfalls, towering mountains, glacial streams, vast canyons, and endless solitude sounds good to you, Þórsmörk is the place to do it.
The nature reserve is a spectacular slice of Iceland, with its lush vegetation, awesome natural features, and vast open spaces. However, getting to Þórsmörk is no easy feat. There are river crossings that require vehicles with high enough clearance to cross.
But this is what makes Þórsmörk such a fantastic place to enjoy nature in Iceland and it‘s worth the trip! If you’re looking for a bit of adventure and really good hiking, you’ll be in heaven.
Location: Þórsmörk
14. Sample Locals-Favorite Candy: Lakkrís (Black Licorice)
Local Food | Kids and Adults | Reykjavik (West)
All Nordic countries seem to have their version of lakkrís, and Icelanders love it on its own, with chocolate, in pastries, and even in ice cream. The saltiness of the licorice pairs really well with sweets and my favorite is the licorice ice cream at Valdís.
For centuries, there were restrictions on which foreign food products made it to Iceland. Black licorice was one of the few sweets imported. As such, Icelanders have been enjoying this nammi, candy in English, for generations. It‘s rare to find an Icelander that doesn‘t indulge in licorice.
Want more food recommendations? Check out my list of top foods to try!
Where to get lakkrís: Vínberið
13. Explore Akureyri—the Unofficial Capital of North Iceland
City Sightseeing I Full Day I Akureyri (North)
Set in a picturesque fjord in the north of Iceland, Akureyri is on the Ring Road (Route 1). For travelers planning to self-drive in the summer, the city is an excellent base for exploring the north.
Akureyri has its own personality, and it looks and feels quite different from Reykjavík. It’s more low-key and relaxed than the capital city. There are gardens, charming museums, and a booming art scene to explore. It also boasts a top-notch restaurant scene and first-rate hotels.
Location: Akureyri
12. See Puffins at Látrabjarg in the Westfjords
Wildlife-Watching I Half-Day I Látrabjarg (Westfjords)
The dramatic sea cliffs of the Látrabjarg Peninsula in the wondrous Westfjords are popular with nature lovers and bird watchers in particular. The area has an abundance of bird species and, in the summer, the cliffs are home to thousands of puffins. It’s one of the best bird-watching spots in Iceland.
The colossal rock formations of the Látrabjarg cliffs jut out of the earth at interesting angles. Trails allow you to access the cliffs by foot, but be sure to stay on marked paths. Always be respectful of the area and be mindful of where you step to avoid bird nests.
Location: Látrabjarg | Cost: Free
11. Go Whale-Watching for a Glimpse of Iceland‘s Gentle Giants
Wildlife Watching I 3 Hours I Reykjavík (South)
From Iceland’s coastal cliffs to the sea, the wildlife here is one-of-a-kind. For a chance to glimpse Humpback and Minke whales, head out to the open seas on a whale-watching tour. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see Blue whales, Fin whales, and Orcas swimming along Iceland‘s shores.
It’s a fantastic experience and best done in the summer for the longer daylight and milder temperatures. You can go on whale-watching tours in each region of Iceland, but the most popular are tours departing from Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Húsavík—the whale-watching capital of Iceland.
Where to see whales: Elding Whale Watching | Cost: Tours start at $87
10. Marvel at Góðafoss—the Waterfall of the Gods
Waterfall I Lush Scenery I North Iceland
Water is an important element in Iceland’s landscape. The island has many impressive waterfalls, but what sets Goðafoss (the waterfall of the gods) apart is the sheer width of the tumbling falls—it‘s a striking sight to behold.
White water surges over the rocky rim, thundering and crashing into the water 40 feet below. The shape is quite unique as the waterfall is curved like a horseshoe, with a rock that splits Goðafoss in two. Enjoy different perspectives of this natural wonder from various viewpoints.
Goðafoss, located just off the Ring Road, is the most visited waterfall in north Iceland, followed by Dettifoss (Iceland’s most powerful waterfall located in Vatnajökull National Park). Again, this location is best visited in summer and only by tours in the winter.
Location: Góðafoss | Dettifoss | Cost: Free
9. Delve Deep Inside a Glacier
Ice Cave I Guided Tour I Langjökull (West)
Even if you visit Iceland in the summer, you can still experience a glacial adventure! The Into the Glacier tour leads guests into the world‘s largest manmade ice cave on Langjökull glacier.
And what an adventure it is! A super truck will pick you up in the west Iceland town of Húsafell for a stunning journey across Langjökull to the ice cave. If you’ve ever wanted incredible views of crevices and the chance to run your fingers along smooth ice walls, delve into the ice cave!
The walls are illuminated with LED lighting, and information about glaciers is posted throughout the tunnel. It’s not only a very cool experience (pun intended), but it’s also very enlightening. If you’re traveling with kids, keep this tour in mind!
Location: Into the Glacier | Cost: starting at $163
8. Sail Among Icebergs on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Glacier Lagoon I Boat Tour I Jökulsárlón (East)
If you can’t get enough of glacial adventures, don’t miss this show-stopping spot! Jökulsárlón is a spectacular sight in southeast Iceland. From May-October, you can hop on a boat tour and sail among the icebergs and taste the 1,000-year-old ice.
Jökulsárlón is close to another breathtaking spot, Diamond Beach. Plan a stop here to see large chunks of ice glitter like diamonds on the black-sand beach! Both are epic experiences you can only get in Iceland!
Location: Jökulsárlón | Diamond Beach | Cost: starting at $45
7. Climb To the Top of Hallgrímskirkja for Epic Views of Reykjavík
When you live in the land of fire and ice, you can expect the architecture to compete. Case in point: Hallgrímskirkja is one of the most photographed and visited sites in Reykjavík for excellent reasons.
Its architecture is utterly striking. The Lutheran church is a modern structure made out of concrete, with basalt-style columns at the bottom coming to a point at the top. It stands 73 meters high and was designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson.
After admiring the exterior, head inside to see the gorgeous organ constructed in Germany, as well as beautiful stained glass windows. There are frequently held concerts ranging from choirs to organ performances, as well as mass. For many, the highlight of a trip to Hallgrímskirkja is a visit to the top of the tower, which has spectacular views of the city.
Address: Hallgrímstorg 1
6. Climb One of Iceland’s Highest Waterfalls: Skógafoss
Waterfall I Sightseeing I Skógafoss (South)
You may already have seen pictures of Skógafoss waterfall, but that’s nothing compared to standing at the bottom admiring this epic beauty up close. The waterfall is one of the biggest in the country, looming 82 feet high, and its height makes it unique.
Go from the bottom to the top and experience Skógafoss waterfall’s height for yourself by climbing the stairs up to the rim. In the summer, Skógafoss is surrounded by striking hues of deep green vegetation, pale grey stones, and hints of purple from the wild lupines. It’s a must for nature lovers.
If you’re up for another unique waterfall experience, Skógafoss is close to another spectacular waterfall along the south coast, Seljalandsafoss. Here, you can walk behind the waterfall!
Location: Skógafoss | Seljalandsafoss | Cost: Free
5. Explore Mývatn’s Ancient Lava Caves and Geothermal Pools
Hiking and Spa I Full Day I Mývatn (North)
Now head to Mývatn, a region in north Iceland, for a completely different landscape—one shaped by punishing volcanic eruptions leaving interesting lava formations. The area is renowned for its numerous hiking trails, relaxing geothermal baths, and diverse geology.
If you’re planning to rent a car in the summer and explore on your own time, the Mývatn region is perfect. Drive from the northeastern shore of Lake Mývatn to epic waterfalls, volcanic craters, and black lava rock pillars.
For a taste of the region, take a relaxing dip in the milky-blue waters of the outdoor Mývatn Nature Baths. Then, head into Grjótagjá, an ancient lava cave with a geothermal spring—it’s like nothing you’ve seen before!
For “Game of Thrones” fans, you’ll recognize several scenes from the series that were filmed in this region!
Location: Mývatn | Mývatn Nature Baths | Grjótagjá
4. Walk Along Reynisfjara, the Stunning Black Sand Beach
Beach I Close to Vík I Reynisfjara (South)
For more iconic Iceland landscapes, check out the island’s most well-known beach, Reynisfjara. The contrast of the stark black sands against the white waves is stunning and there’s no better time to experience it than during an Icelandic summer.
Take a walk and get up close to the towering basalt columns next to a small cave. But, be careful! Pay close attention to the warning signs in the parking lot, as sneaker waves can drag you out to sea. There have been fatal accidents here in recent years.
Reynisfjara is close to the town of Vík, home to one of the most unique coffee shops you‘ll ever see: a yellow school bus is the venue of Skool Beans. Stop by and have one of their incredible hot chocolate concoctions!
Location: Reynisfjara
3. Hike Among Volcanoes and Glaciers on Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Hiking I Volcanoes and Mountains I Snæfellsnes (West)
If you’re looking for one area with a bit of everything Iceland has to offer, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is it. Many locals refer to the area as “Iceland in miniature,” because you’ll find everything here—glaciers, mountains, volcanoes, waterfalls, and rich literary history from the Sagas.
The western edge of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is home to Snæfellsjökull National Park and the Snæfellsjökull glacier, which lies on top of a volcano in the center of the national park. You can even book tours to walk on the glacier!
Scattered around the peninsula, you’ll find charming fishing villages, plenty of hiking routes, and quirky museums. The Kirkjufell mountain (pictured) is a favorite sight in the area.
Location: Kirkjufell (Snæfellsnes)
2. Drive the Golden Circle To See Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park
Golden Circle I Sightseeing I South Iceland
Want to know which tour locals would likely recommend for a taste of Iceland? It’s the Golden Circle. The tour will give you a slice of Icelandic history at Þingvellir, a view of Iceland’s gurgling geothermal activity at Geysir (pictured), and a look at a roaring, powerful waterfall at Gullfoss.
The sights are classically Icelandic and postcard-perfect in the summer and, best of all, the route is typically driven in one day. If you get the chance, check out the Secret Lagoon and the tomato greenhouses and restaurant at Friðheimar, which are near the Golden Circle.
Location: Geysir | Gullfoss Waterfall | Þingvellir National Park | Cost: Free
1. Soak in the Healing Waters of the Blue Lagoon
Classic Iceland I Spa and Relaxation I Blue Lagoon (South)
Built on an 800-year-old lava field, our #1 thing to do in Iceland should be no surprise! A trip to Iceland would not be complete without visiting the Blue Lagoon, attracting visitors from around the world to soak in its unique milky-blue waters. That’s why it also made our list of things to do in Reykjavik as a day trip!
The manmade hot spring relaxes and exhilarates simultaneously, and it‘s great to see in any season. There are fantastic restaurants on-site, a private lagoon (pictured), and numerous spa services. It‘s best to visit the Blue Lagoon right after your arrival to Iceland or before departure as it is so close to Keflavik International Airport.
Location: Blue Lagoon | Cost: starting at $62
Where To Stay in Reykjavík
Iceland’s capital city may be small but it has plenty to offer visitors. Discover Reykjavík’s best hotels and neighborhoods for a memorable trip.
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