Curator’s statement
Iceland holds a special place in my heart because it's where my partner proposed on the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach in May 2024. During a week of exploring Reykjavík, geothermal lagoons, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes, I discovered a destination that felt unlike anywhere else on Earth. From soaking in hot springs and walking between tectonic plates to driving along dramatic coastal roads, every day brought a new adventure. This guide brings together the experiences, restaurants, and travel tips that made our trip truly unforgettable.
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Things to do in Iceland
Sky Lagoon
My favorite geothermal spa experience in Iceland, with a more intimate and curated atmosphere than many of the larger lagoons. The ocean views, direct access from the changing rooms, and excellent facilities make it feel more exclusive than the renowned Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon remains a must-visit thanks to its iconic milky blue waters surrounded by dramatic lava fields. It's one of Iceland's most unique experiences and offers a separate, quieter area for relaxation.
Reynisfjara black sand beach
Reynisfjara is one of Iceland's most striking natural attractions, known for its black volcanic sand, basalt columns, and dramatic sea stacks. The scenery is unforgettable, but visitors should always be cautious of the powerful sneaker waves.
The Lava Tunnel (Raufarhólshellir)
This fascinating lava tube allows visitors to walk through a tunnel created by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. It's one of the best ways to experience Iceland's volcanic geology up close.
Silfra Rift
Silfra offers the rare opportunity to snorkel or dive between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The crystal-clear water provides some of the best underwater visibility in the world. We, however, opted to observe the rift from above.
Great Geysir & Strokkur
Located along the Golden Circle, this geothermal area is home to bubbling hot springs and the famous Strokkur geyser. Watching Strokkur erupt every few minutes is one of Iceland's most memorable natural spectacles.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls and one of the few where you can walk behind the cascading water. The views from every angle make it a favorite stop along the South Coast.
Northern Lights tour
Although we didn't see the Northern Lights, the experience of venturing into the Icelandic wilderness at night was memorable in its own right. Sipping hot chocolate and enjoying homemade cinnamon rolls under the stars made the tour feel magical regardless of the outcome.
Explore Reykjavík on foot
Reykjavík is compact, colorful, and easy to explore, with many attractions, cafés, and restaurants within walking distance. It's the perfect place to slow down and experience Icelandic culture between larger adventures.
Places to eat & drink in Iceland
ROK Restaurant
ROK was our first dinner in Iceland, and it set the tone for the entire trip. Located just steps from Hallgrímskirkja, this intimate restaurant serves beautifully presented small plates that showcase Icelandic ingredients with a modern twist. The atmosphere is warm, stylish, and perfect for sharing dishes and sampling a variety of flavors.
Sumac
If I could only recommend one restaurant in Reykjavík, it would be Sumac. Inspired by the cuisines of North Africa and the Middle East, the menu is bold, creative, and packed with flavor. Between Sumac and ROK, I enjoyed some of the most memorable dining experiences of my life, and I still find myself thinking about the food long after returning home.
Svarta Kaffið
Looking for something hearty after a day of sightseeing? Svarta Kaffið is famous for its rich, comforting soups served in freshly baked bread bowls. It's simple, satisfying, and exactly the kind of meal you'll crave after exploring Reykjavík in chilly weather.
KOL Restaurant
KOL combines contemporary Icelandic cuisine with an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. The menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients and creative flavor combinations, making it an excellent choice for a special evening out. The cocktails are equally impressive and pair beautifully with the food.
Kiki Queer Bar
For LGBTQ+ travelers, Kiki is an absolute must-visit. Iceland is one of the world's most welcoming destinations for LGBTQ+ visitors, and Kiki offers a fun, inclusive space to enjoy drinks, music, and dancing. We had a fantastic night here and immediately felt welcome.
Need to know
Rent a car
If there's one piece of advice I would give every traveler visiting Iceland, it's to rent a car. While Reykjavík is a fantastic base, the true magic of Iceland begins once you leave the city behind. From waterfalls and glaciers to black sand beaches and volcanic landscapes, some of the country's most spectacular sights are only accessible by road.
Use the Parka app for parking
Street parking is common in central Reykjavík, and I highly recommend downloading the Parka app before your trip. It makes paying for parking quick and easy, allowing you to manage everything directly from your phone without needing to search for parking meters.
Explore Reykjavík by e-scooter
One of the most enjoyable ways to get around Reykjavík is by electric scooter. The city is compact, safe, and easy to navigate, making scooters a fun and efficient way to visit attractions, cafés, and restaurants while covering more ground than you would on foot.
Pack for four seasons in one day
Iceland's weather can change dramatically within a matter of hours. Even in spring and summer, it's not uncommon to experience sunshine, rain, and strong winds all in the same day. Layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy footwear are essential.
Respect nature and safety warnings
Iceland's landscapes are breathtaking, but they can also be unpredictable. Always follow marked paths, obey warning signs, and check local conditions before visiting natural attractions. This is especially important at locations such as Reynisfjara Beach, where powerful sneaker waves can be dangerous.
Don't rush your itinerary
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is trying to see too much in too little time. Iceland is a destination best enjoyed slowly. Leave room for spontaneous stops, scenic detours, and unexpected discoveries—you'll often find that the moments you didn't plan become the highlights of your trip.
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Christo Van Niekerk
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