Iceland: Your Next Unforgettable Adventure Awaits

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is famous for its unique, milky-blue geothermal waters rich in silica and minerals, which are known to be great for the skin. It's an iconic and surreal spa experience, conveniently located near the airport, making it a perfect first or last stop on a trip.

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a must-do for anyone with limited time. It's a convenient loop from Reykjavík that packs in three of Iceland's most famous natural and historical sites: the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, the erupting Strokkur geyser, and the historically significant Þingvellir National Park.

The Ring Road

The Ring Road is the ultimate Icelandic road trip. It circles the entire country, providing the most comprehensive way to see the incredible diversity of Iceland's landscapes—from volcanoes and glaciers to black sand beaches and charming coastal towns.

Black Sand Beach (Reynisfjara)

I would recommend the Black Sand Beach for its dramatic and otherworldly scenery. The striking contrast of the jet-black sand against the powerful Atlantic waves, combined with the towering basalt columns and sea stacks, creates a truly unforgettable and photogenic sight.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a breathtaking spectacle where massive icebergs, calved from a nearby glacier, float serenely in a deep blue lagoon before drifting out to sea. It's a stunning and humbling reminder of the power of nature and a unique chance to see ancient ice up close.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Known as "Iceland in Miniature," the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is perfect for those who want to see a bit of everything without traveling the entire Ring Road. It offers a condensed version of Iceland's diverse landscapes, including a glacier, lava fields, dramatic coastlines, and quaint fishing villages.

Whale watching

Iceland's nutrient-rich waters are a prime feeding ground for over 20 species of cetaceans. It offers an incredible opportunity to see these magnificent creatures—like humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins—in their natural habitat, making for a thrilling and memorable wildlife encounter.

Before your trip, it's essential to know that Iceland's food prices can be quite high due to the fact that the vast majority of food must be imported. A great way to save money and experience a bit of local life is to visit the grocery stores. They are an excellent option for stocking up on snacks, drinks, and ingredients to make your own meals, especially if you have an Airbnb or hotel with a kitchen. But here are a few restaurants I was able to try and recommend.

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (Reykjavík)

You can't go to Reykjavík and not try this iconic hot dog stand. It’s a quick, delicious, and surprisingly satisfying meal that's a rite of passage for visitors. The name translates to "The Best Hot Dogs in Town." Just order one "with everything" (raw onions, fried onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade) to get the full experience. It's a taste of authentic Icelandic fast food.

Friðheimar (Golden Circle)

This is not just a meal; it's a unique experience—it's a restaurant located inside a geothermal greenhouse where they grow tomatoes year-round. They serve a buffet of incredible tomato soup, freshly baked bread, and other tomato-themed dishes like pasta and even tomato beer. You'll be eating among the tomato plants, surrounded by the warmth and scent of the greenhouse.

The Fish Company (Fiskfélagið) (Reykjavík)

For a more upscale dining experience, I'd recommend The Fish Company. This restaurant is known for its creative and beautifully presented seafood dishes that fuse Icelandic ingredients with international flavors. The tasting menus are a fantastic way to try a variety of their culinary creations, and the cozy, rustic-chic atmosphere makes for a perfect special-occasion meal.

Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron) (Reykjavík)

If you're looking for a casual, no-frills seafood spot right by the harbour, I would recommend The Sea Baron. The restaurant is famous for its delicious lobster soup, which is a perfect warm-up after a chilly day of sightseeing. They also have skewers of fresh fish and other seafood on display that you can choose from to be grilled to order, making it a fresh and authentic choice.

Café Loki (Reykjavík)

Located directly across from Hallgrímskirkja church, Café Loki is a great place to try traditional Icelandic food in a casual, welcoming setting. I would recommend it for its tasting platters, which include a variety of classic dishes like rye bread with smoked trout, fermented shark with a shot of Brennivín (Icelandic schnapps), and lamb stew. It's a great way to sample some of Iceland's more unique culinary traditions without committing to a full meal.

Lava Restaurant (Blue Lagoon)

If you're looking for a top-tier dining experience, I would highly recommend the Lava Restaurant at the Blue Lagoon. Situated on an 800-year-old lava cliff, this fine-dining establishment offers an extraordinary setting. The food is equally impressive, with a focus on seasonal Icelandic ingredients. The multi-course tasting menu is a culinary journey and a perfect way to cap off your time at the Blue Lagoon, making it an experience that goes beyond just the spa.