Iceland Travelers Recommend

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the elusive Northern Lights. To help you catch a glimpse of this natural display of swirling colors in the sky this winter, we've gathered insider tips and our top guided experiences. See below for your options.

When to Go

The prime time to see the Northern Lights near Reykjavik is from September to March. You need pure darkness and cloudless skies to get the best views, but beware—the clearest nights are often the coldest. Make sure you dress accordingly.

Where to Go

Reykjavik is a perfect starting point for seeing the Northern Lights. Since the city isn't too big and doesn't create much light pollution, you don't have to travel very far to find complete darkness, which creates the perfect backdrop for this natural light show.

How to Go

Whether you travel by super jeep into the mountains, take a cruise on Faxaflói Bay, or combine your Northern Lights trip with whale watching or a visit to the Blue Lagoon, there are plenty of options to hunt down this mystical natural light show near Reykjavik.

Iceland's Golden Circle route is the ultimate day trip destination from Reykjavik—although not too far from the city, the route features some of the country’s must-see geysers and waterfalls. Here’s how to tour the Golden Circle from Reykjavik.

Guided Tours

Tours leave Reykjavik regularly, with guides on hand to lead travelers directly to the route's key sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Thingvellir National Park, widely considered home to Iceland's most impressive natural attractions. Travel by road or take to the skies by helicopter with a guide, and discover famous Golden Circle staples such as Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal pools and Strokkur waterspout at Geysir, and the tectonic rift in the Thingvellir National Park.

Combo Tours

Combo tours are an ideal way to double up on the adventure, and squeeze more into your time in Iceland. Choose a tour that takes you around the Golden Circle's top spots and also includes a trip to the Hvítá River for a white-water rafting adventure; to the Blue Lagoon or Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths for a soak; or to Langjokull Glacier for some winter sports.

Things to Know

• Express Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik run at about eight hours, and more comprehensive combo tours can be upwards of 11, so prepare for a full day.
• From Reykjavik, the furthest point on the Golden Circle tour is the Gulfoss waterfall. This natural landmark lies 67 miles (109 km) away from the city—a drive of about 1.5 hours.
• Iceland's otherworldy landscapes come with unpredictable weather and rugged terrain, so pack accordingly. At a minimum in winter, you’ll need a fleece layer, a warm, waterproof coat, thermals, and a hat and scarf, plus warm socks and gloves. In summer, wear thinner layers that can be easily removed and packed away if the sun comes out. And don’t forget hiking boots for the trekking trails or swimwear for the thermal baths.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Reykjavik, with almost 24 hours of daylight, mild weather, and a busy schedule of open-air entertainment. To make the most of your trip, see below for our top picks of what to see and do in Reykjavik this summer.

• Admire natural wonders such as Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geyser, the Secret Lagoon, and the Haukadalur lava fields on a full-day Golden Circle tour.

• Trek through Vatnajökull National Park, around the Landmannalaugar mountains, or into the heart of Thrihnukagigur volcano.

• Take a dip in one of Reykjavik’s open-air, heated swimming pools or bathe in the steamy Blue Lagoon hot springs.

• Soar over Reykjavik on a helicopter tour and touch down on the peak of Mt. Esja.

• Mount up for a horseback riding tour and admire Iceland’s volcanic landscapes from the back of an Icelandic horse.

• Experience the magic of the midnight sun on an evening whale watching cruise from Reykjavik and spot humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural environment.

• Get your adrenaline pumping as you snorkel through the Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park and explore the Gjábakkahellir lava cave.

• Discover the natural wonders of Iceland’s southern coast including the black-sand beach of Vik, the Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, and Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

The Golden Circle route and the Blue Lagoon are considered among Iceland’s top attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. Here are a few ways to visit them both in the same day and make the most of your time in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Highlights

• Tick off two of Iceland's top activities in one convenient tour package

• Single-day options are available, as well as more extensive multi-day tours that take you to other parts of Iceland as well

• Travelers looking for outdoor adventure can choose a hiking tour to tackle the terrain on foot

• Combo tours typically include pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel, plus round-trip transport to your destinations

Things to Know

• Bring clothing layers for all weather. During the cold winter months, you'll need a fleece layer, a warm waterproof coat, and a hat and scarf, plus warm socks and gloves. In summer, wear thinner layers that can be easily removed and packed away, plus sun protection. Don't forget swimwear for the Blue Lagoon thermal bath.
• Most combo day tours available from Reykjavik last between 7 and 10 hours.
• From Reykjavik, the furthest point on the Golden Circle tour is the Gulfoss waterfall. This natural landmark lies 67 miles (109 km) away from the city—a drive of about 1.5 hours. 
• From Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is a 29-mile (47-km) drive.

The Northern Lights are widely considered among the most captivating beautiful sights in the world, and Iceland is one of the best places to go to see the light show. Here are a few tips to help make sure you catch Aurora Borealis in full flow.

When to Go

For a chance at spotting the Northern Lights in Iceland, visit between September and March, when winter descends and the open plains outside the cities are plunged into darkness by night. Even by day, you can expect only about five hours of daylight. And do keep in mind that the nights are particularly cold during the cloudless days of winter, so bring plenty of warm layers.

Where to Go

The majority of Iceland visitors in search of the Northern Lights use the capital city of Reykjavik as their base due to the wealth of Aurora hunting tours and diverse accommodation, dining and entertainment options available. Northern Lights tours take you outside the city into the surrounding countryside for the best shot at seeing the lights.

How to Go

Iceland is home to rugged off-road trails, calm bays, and open plains—all offering great opportunities to escape the city in search of the Northern Lights. Spin into the mountains on a Jeep safari, cruise across Faxaflói Bay, zoom up to the Langjökull glacier by snowmobile, or simply enjoy a relaxing coach night tour into the wilderness—where the Aurora Borealis shines brightest.

A 2-day trip to Reykjavik offers the chance to fully explore the cosmopolitan capital of Iceland and also get a taste of the wild landscapes that are just a short distance away. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, here’s how to spend two days in Reykjavik.

Day 1: The City and Its Natural Wonders

**Morning:**Spend your first hours in Reykjavik getting your bearings and doing some sightseeing. Walking and biking tours are greats way to familiarize yourself with the city and hit the highlights, while coach and hop-on hop-off bus tours cover more ground in less time with the chance to customize your stops.

**Afternoon:**Get out on the water on a whale-watching cruise from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. If visiting in summer, you can combine whale watching with a cruise to Akurey to see its puffin colony. If you’d rather stay on land, consider Blue Lagoon tickets or a horseback riding tour close to Reykjavik—hotel transfers are generally included.

**Night:**Summer offers extended daylight hours so you can take an evening tour of the Golden Circle, which brings the benefit of smaller crowds at the attractions. In winter, you can choose from a coach, boat, or Super Jeep tour for a northern lights hunt. 

Day 2: Into the Countryside

**Morning:**You can spend the whole day exploring the Golden Circle on a private or group tour that includes an activity such as snowmobiling on a glacier or a visit to the Secret Lagoon. Some longer full-day options also take in Iceland’s south coast or Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Alternatively, take a shorter morning or afternoon tour that focuses on Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

**Afternoon:**A helicopter tour is a great way to get a sense of Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes. Tours typically depart from Reykjavik’s downtown airport and offer sightseeing over Thingvellir National Park and Eyjafjallajokull glacier.

**Night:**Reykjavik is famed for its lively nightlife. Beer- and food-themed tours offer a taste of local drink and food culture as well as insight into the best spots to spend the rest of your evening after you leave your tour guide.

With three days in Reykjavik, you have plenty of time to soak up the city’s atmosphere, see the historic sights, and journey into the surrounding countryside to see some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions. Here are a few ideas for how to spend three days in Reykjavik.

Day 1: Explore the City’s Sights and Lights

Walking tours are an enjoyable way to explore Reykjavik and get your bearings, thanks to the city’s compact size and the close proximity of attractions such as Hallgrimskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall. Alternatively, hop-on hop-off bus tours allow you to set your own itinerary with 24-hour tickets, so you can spend the whole day exploring at your leisure.

In winter, you’re likely to be able to see the northern lights. To maximize your chances, leave the city on an aurora borealis night tour. It’s a good idea to schedule this for the first night of your trip as, if you do not see the aurora that night, some tours offer a complimentary second tour the following night. If visiting outside winter, book an evening visit to the Blue Lagoon instead.

Day 2: Head into the Country

Traversing the Golden Circle is a must-do. The route, which is easily accessible from Reykjavik, is made up of three main attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Most guided Golden Circle tours take a full day, with some including additional excursions, such as snowmobiling on a glacier or visiting the Secret Lagoon.

Iceland’s south coast is another popular day-trip destination. Visit on a full-day private or group tour to see Seljalandsfoss waterfall (which you can walk behind) and the black-sand beach and basalt columns of Reynisfjara.

Day 3: Meet Iceland’s Animal Inhabitants

The Icelandic horse is famed for its hardiness, charming looks, and uniquely smooth gait, called tölt. You’ll likely see some as you travel the countryside, but for a closer experience, book a horseback riding tour. These typically include transportation from Reykjavik to a countryside farm and continue into scenic surroundings of mountains and lava fields.

If you prefer to watch animals from afar, join a whale-watching cruise from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, offered year-round but with the most frequent sightings from April through October. In summer, some cruises include visits to nearby Akurey to see its puffin colony. Whale watching and horseback riding can even be combined with one full-day tour.

The world’s northernmost capital may be far-flung, but Reykjavik is both full off and close to some one-of-a-kind attractions. As well as being the departure point for tours of the wild Icelandic countryside, the city has its own unique appeal. Reykjavik boasts colorful houses, ultra-modern architecture, art galleries, creative cuisine, and wild nightlife. Although its small size means you can see a lot in a short time, you’ll want to plan ahead to ensure you make the most of it.  

From exploring the city sightseeing to whale and puffin watching to spotting the Northern Lights and discovering waterfalls, glittering glaciers, and black-sand beaches, this list reveal the experiences that you can't miss in the Icelandic capital. 

Sitting on two ever-shifting continental tectonic plates and formed by volcanic activity, Iceland is a hot bed of geysers, ice caves, and bubbling mud. It's also noted for its glaciers, which slowly move over nearly 12 percent of the country. From 4x4 vehicle tours to glacier hiking, here are some of the top glaciers in Iceland.

Eyjafjallajökull

See the epic glacier of Eyjafjallajökull from above on a two-hour helicopter flight. The route passes over Mýrdalsjökull and Tindfjallajökull glaciers and the helicopter lands near the Katla volcano for a brief exploration of the icy terrain before retracing the course for aerial views of Iceland's compact capital city of Reykjavik.

Falljökull

Combine a guided hike across the crevasses of Falljökull with a magical boat journey across the glacial lagoon of Fjallsárlón, complete with floating mini-icebergs, for a truly unforgettable Icelandic experience.

Langjökull

Iceland's second-largest glacier is one of its most stable and can be explored close up on an hour-long snowmobile blast across its snowy expanses. Other icy adventures on the glacier include descending to its very heart in Europe's largest man-made ice cave, reached by an eight-wheeled monster truck.

Mýrdalsjökul

Included as a stop on several glacier tours, Mýrdalsjökul can be admired from above by helicopter or paraglider — the latter involves flying in tandem with a certified pilot.

Thórisjökull

Helicopters actually land on Thórisjökull after flying directly above Glymur, the highest waterfall in Iceland. A second stop is made at Hengill to witness the bizarre bubbling mud pots in this region of high geothermal activity.

Sólheimajökull

Two hours from Reykjavik on Iceland's southern coast, Sólheimajökull is reached by Jeep for expert-led ice-climbing expeditions (all safety equipment is provided) or hiking around its perimeter. Tour options can include stops at the thundering waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss or an off-roading session on the black-sand beach of Sólheimasandur.

Thórisjökull

Helicopter flights over Thórisjökull also take in the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, where the American and European tectonic plates abrade each other at one of the most active geothermal spots in the world.

Vatnajökull

Half-day hikes over Vatnajökull**,**Europe's biggest glacier, are extremely popular activities on day trips out of Reykjavik; routes are specifically tailored to suit all ages and abilities, while crampons are provided.

Home to mighty glaciers and glistening snowfields, Iceland is a winter wonderland of outdoor adventure. Whizzing across the glacial plains by snowmobile gets the adrenaline pumping, and it’s a fun and safe activity for families with kids too. Here are your options for enjoying the best of Iceland’s snowmobiling tours.

Highlights

• Combine a Golden Circle super jeep excursion with a snowmobile tour from Reykjavik, and reach top natural attractions like the Langjokull glacier.

• Open the throttle and zoom through the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Thingvellir National Park to the Geysir geyser.

• Explore the Geysir geothermal field by snowmobile and bathe in the natural hot springs of the Secret Lagoon.

• Discover stunning sights such as Gullfoss waterfall and the Myrdalsjokull glacier by snowmobile.

• Take your snowmobile across the ice cap and delve into a subterranean world of frozen blue ice on an ice-cave tour.

Reykjavik, the far-flung yet surprisingly cosmopolitan capital of Iceland, is filled with more attractions than its compactness might suggest. And its small size means you can see a lot in a single day, from historic landmarks and Viking influences to mountains and geysers. Here are a few ways to spend one day in Reykjavik.

Morning: Take in the City’s Sights

Reykjavik is a highly walkable city, making an on-foot tour an enjoyable way to see the sights. Most walking tours comprehensively cover the main landmarks, such as Hallgrimskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall, with enlightening commentary. To get just outside the city center, opt for a bike tour or book round-trip transport from the Blue Lagoon. Private or group minibus tours, on the other hand, cover even more ground in less time, while hop-on hop-off bus tours have the added benefit of allowing you to set your own itinerary and pace.

Afternoon: Experience Otherworldly Landscapes

Although it’s impossible to see all of Iceland in one day, you can still see some of Iceland’s famed geysers, hot springs, and lava fields from the air. Helicopter tours leave from Reykjavik’s domestic airport (conveniently located downtown) and typically fly to Thingvellir National Park and Thorisjokull glacier, or to Eyjafjallajokull glacier and Katla volcano. Some helicopter tours focus on Iceland’s geothermal landscapes while others allow for mountain summit landings. If you’d rather stay on the ground, off-road quad biking tours can give you a taste of the wilderness in a short time.

Night: Marvel at Iceland’s Night Sky

If traveling in summer, long daylight hours mean you can fit in more activities. Take advantage of the midnight sun to get out of the city on an evening Golden Circle tour that departs from Reykjavik and travels to Thingvellir, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Winter, on the other hand, brings the aurora borealis. You have several options for northern lights tours: travel by coach, boat, or Super Jeep. Most tours head out into the countryside and away from light pollution, and some offer a free second chance if you don’t see the aurora that night.

Compact, colorful, and charming, Reykjavik is full of kid-friendly fun. From learning about Vikings and petting Icelandic horses to spotting whales and chasing the Northern Lights, this list details some of the best things for families to do in Iceland’s capital.

• Explore the city at your own pace on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour that hits all the major sights.
• Meet adorable Icelandic horses and ride through the countryside.
• Dress up like a Viking and hear dramatic tales about the history of Iceland at the Saga Museum.
• Meet farm animals and costumed guides at Árbær Open Air Museum.
• View life-size models of whales at Whales of Iceland and then head out onto the water with a combo museum and whale-watching package. Or, go puffin-spotting.
• Search for the magical Northern Lights and hear some of the Icelandic myths associated with them on an evening tour. Toasting marshmallows arounf the campfire is a family favorite.

Iceland is home to over half of the world’s Atlantic puffin population, with colonies found everywhere—from the rugged sea cliffs in the south to the remote islands of the Westfjords. Puffin tours run from Reykjavik along Iceland’s south coast, or Husavik on Iceland’s north coast. Here are the best options.

Highlights

• Cruise out to Akurey Island—aka Puffin Island—off the coast of Reykjavik, to discover one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies in its natural habitat.

• Zip around the small islands of Skjalfandi Bay and spot humpback whales, porpoises, and puffins on a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) ride from Husavik.

• Set sail on a bird-watching tour from Reykjavik Harbour and look out for arctic terns, black guillemots, northern fulmars, and puffins around Faxafloi Bay.

• Learn more about fascinating puffins, nicknamed the “clowns of the sea,” from an expert guide.

• Enjoy two unforgettable wildlife tours with a combo deal from Reykjavik, including a puffin-watching cruise and a whale-watching tour.

Iceland is a nation filled with diverse landscapes, breathtaking scenery—and active volcanoes. Few excursions offer visitors the opportunity to take in all the unique natural sights like a guided volcano tour from Reykjavik and Iceland’s south coast, which offers some of the most stunning views the country has to offer.

Highlights

• Descend into Thrihnukagigur, one of Iceland’s most impressive dormant volcanoes, and spend a few hours exploring its subterranean interior.

• Hike through Thorsmork Valley and enjoy incredible views of the rocky craters and cooling lava fields of the Fimmvorduhals volcano.

• Take a “super jeep” tour around the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which brought European air travel to a halt when it erupted in 2010.

• Marvel at the magical waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, and go for a stroll along the black-sand beach of the popular Reynisfjara beach.

• Go for a short glacier walk on the 700-year-old Solheimajokull glacier.

• Get a bird’s-eye view of the Eyjafjallajokull glacier, Thorsmork ridge, and Katla volcano on a two-hour helicopter tour.

• Join a small-group tour to climb to the top of the Hekla volcano.

Thanks to its compact size, Reykjavik is easy to navigate without a vehicle (and given the high cost of car rental in Iceland, you’re better off without one). From public transit and bus tours to simply walking, here’s how to get around the Icelandic capital.

Walking, Biking, and Segway Tours

The majority of Reykjavik’s top attractions are within a short distance of one another, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. Walking tours are popular and typically cover the main sights or focus on a certain theme, such as Viking history or culinary heritage. Alternatively, cover more ground in less time by booking a bicycle or Segway tour.

Hop-On-Hop-Off-Bus Tours

One of the best ways to familiarize yourself with a new city is with a hop-on hop-off tour. You can travel around Reykjavik in an open-top, double-decker bus, opting to stay on board for the whole route or get off at any stop that interests you, explore at your own pace, and then reboard and continue on. Bonus: Tickets are good for 24 hours.

Buses

Many visitors to Reykjavik make use of the private buses that travel between downtown Reykjavik and Keflavík International Airport. Straetó, the country's public bus system, also comes in handy for getting around the city and traveling to nearby towns, such as Mossfellsbær and Kópavogur—Reykjavik City Card holders ride free within the city. If you’re planning to travel much farther afield, however, you’ll save time and effort by joining a tour or renting a car.

Fall is the perfect shoulder season in Reykjavik: The landscape is vibrant with color, and the darkness and chill of winter have yet to arrive. During your autumnal stay, plan a wide-ranging itinerary that blends trips into nature with cultural excursions and culinary adventures—here’s how to make the most of a fall visit to the Icelandic capital.

• Enjoy the fresh, crisp air and vibrant fall colors when you go on a horseback riding tour.
• Indulge in a soothing soak in one of the region’s natural thermal springs.
• See the mighty Gullfoss waterfall before it freezes over during a Golden Circle day trip.
• Sample delicious traditional Icelandic cuisine on a tour of Reykjavik’s best restaurants.
• Embark on a whale-watching tour to see these giants of the deep during their autumn migrations.
• Tour Reykjavik’s major landmarks from the cozy comfort of a minibus.
• Admire volcanoes, lava beaches, and waterfalls juxtaposed with an autumnal color palette during a visit to Snaefellsnes National Park.
• Embark on a sea-fishing adventure, and barbecue your catch onboard.
• Head indoors and discover Reykjavik’s highlight museums, from the Reykjavik Museum of Photography to the Reykjavik Maritime Museum.
• Plan a fun and festive night out with a wine-bar excursion or pub crawl.

With its dreamy landscapes and cozy bars, Reykjavik is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Plus, its consistently chilly temperatures demand that you get cozy with your sweetheart. Here are a few ways to get romantic in Iceland’s capital.

Hunt the Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern Lights is a spectacular experience that’s best shared with a loved one. Bundle up and head out into the countryside or onto the water to increase your chances of seeing the natural phenomenon. During summer, you can chase the midnight sun instead in an ATV for two.

Take a Dip in the Secret Lagoon

Avoid the crowds of the Blue Lagoon at Secret Lagoon, a much more intimate hot spring experience in the village of Flúðir, east of Reykjavik. The steamy waters are naturally heated to between 100–104˚F (38–40˚C).

Ride into the Countryside

Soak up the otherworldly landscapes surrounding Reykjavik by riding through the countryside on an Icelandic horse. You’ll ride past mountains and lakes, and get the opportunity to pet this unique breed of stead.

Dine at a Top Restaurant

Round off a day in Reykjavik with a romantic meal for two at one of the city’s best restaurants, such as Kopar, famed for its Icelandic specialties. You can even combine dinner with a Northern Lights cruise.

Plants are making a verdant reappearance, sunlight is returning, and crowds have yet to arrive: Spring is one of the prettiest and most tranquil times to visit Iceland. Take advantage of the warming days on a national park day trip, and make the most of Reykjavik’s cultural plenty, too. Here’s how to plan your spring getaway.

• Admire a spectacular late-night northern lights show before summer’s midnight sun arrives.
• Plan a pampering spa trip to the thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
• Treat yourself to a spring-cleaning wardrobe refresh when you go for a shopping tour of the city.
• Take advantage of the longer days with a walking tour of Reykjavik’s major landmarks.
• Head out on a Golden Circle tour to see Gullfoss waterfall’s raging, glacier-fed rapids.
• Enjoy green and blossoming meadows during an Icelandic horseback-riding excursion.
• Learn all about seasonal Icelandic cuisine during a hands-on cooking class.
• See Iceland’s nature in all its glory with a trip to the wild and rugged Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
• Enjoy an unconventional way to discover the springtime scenery with a Game of Thrones–themed day trip.
• Head to the South Coast and see some of Iceland’s most spectacular landscapes when you embark on a boat tour of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

With its vast glaciers, steamy hot springs, and towering volcanic peaks, Iceland’s unique landscapes could have been lifted from the pages of a fantasy novel, and the most spectacular views are from high above. Here are your options for Reykjavik helicopter tours.

Highlights

• Fly to the 3,000-foot (914-meter) mountaintop of Mount Esja on a 40-minute helicopter tour and marvel at the views on a summit landing.

• Take a thrilling Reykjavik helicopter flight along the Reykjanes Peninsula and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Seltun lava fields as well as Graenavatn and Kleifarvatn lakes.

• Soar over the volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and valleys of Iceland’s south coast, the Vatnajokull National Park, or the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

• Take in the highlights of the Golden Circle sightseeing route from the air, and see the Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geyser, and Gullfoss waterfall.

• Spend two hours flightseeing Eyjafjallajokull Glacier, Thorsmork ridge, and Iceland’s Blue Mountains.

With two days to spend in the northern outpost of Akureyri, you’ll have enough time to explore the town and its restaurants and galleries, get offshore for some of Iceland’s best whale watching, soak up the dramatic natural scenery of the north, and even sneak in some relaxation. Here’s how to get the most out of 48 hours in Akureyri.

Day 1: Whales and Relaxation

**Morning:**Bundle up this morning for one of Akureyri’s most popular activities: whale watching. Aboard a high-speed boat, head out into Eyjafjord in search of humpback whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and dolphins. Sightings are almost guaranteed in summer.

**Afternoon:**Warm up this afternoon with a uniquely Icelandic form of relaxation at the Beer Spa. Step into a hoppy bath of young beer and live beer yeast to help ease sore muscles and cleanse the skin. Each tub has its own tap of cold beer as well, so you can imbibe as you soak. 

**Night:**Polish off your first day in Akureyri by treating your tastebuds to some local flavors on a guided food tour around town. A local foodie will lead the way as you hop from one place to the next, sampling local specialties such as lamb, seafood, traditional Icelandic bread, and the country’s favorite spirit, Brennivín.

Day 2: Diamond Circle

**Morning:**Akureyri makes the perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of Iceland’s Diamond Circle. Spend today on a guided tour of this route, starting with a morning visit to two of the country’s most famous waterfalls, Godafoss and Dettifoss. Don’t forget your camera, as both are spectacular.

**Afternoon:**Continue your journey along the Diamond Circle to Iceland’s fourth-largest lake, the volcanic Lake Myvatn. This geothermically active region is known for its craters and lava formations, as well as an abundance of birdlife (15 species of ducks live here). If time permits, spend some time soaking in the Myvatn nature baths. 

**Night:**You’re in one of the best areas of Iceland to see the northern lights, so take this evening to head out in search of the natural phenomenon. Choose between a 4WD tour and a nighttime cruise to escape the light pollution of town, and keep warm with a steaming cup of hot chocolate.

Iceland's surreal glaciers, mountains, and waterfalls were exactly what brought Game of Thrones to the Arctic island for filming. Experience the TV show in real life by visiting the following film sites on a Thrones -themed excursion in Iceland.

Ruins of Dimmuborgir as Castle Black

The Ruins of Dimmuborgir, composed of a collection of eerie lava structures, have been used a key filming site for the show's Castle Black, the famed fortress for the Night's Watch. Follow in the footsteps of famous "crows" such as Jon Snow and Benjen Stark as you explore this location on a day trip from Akureyri.

Thingvellir National Park as North of The Wall

Imagine a stare-down with the menacing White Walker army during a stop at Thingvellir National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only an important part of Icelandic history but has also been used as fantasy filming location to depict the icy lands north of The Wall on Game of Thrones.

Lake Mývatn as North of the Wall

This scenic Icelandic lake is home to Grjótagjá Rift, a spooky subterranean space used in a famous scene featuring Jon Snow and Ygritte in season three. The area has also been used heavily to depict the icy world north of The Wall. Visits to this key filming location typically depart from Akureyri.

Thjorsárdalur Valley as the Wildling Battle Site

Iceland's windswept Thjorsárdalur valley was selected by the Game of Thrones producers as the setting for an idyllic farming village attacked by the Wildings in season four. Most tours to the valley's volcanic terrain depart from Reykjavik.

Want to explore all of the Thrones' seven kingdoms? Other spectacular filming locations can be found in Croatia, Northern Ireland, Spain, and Malta.

Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and featuring dark night skies, Akureyri makes a prime base for catching the colorful Northern Lights in Iceland. Here’s how to get a chance at witnessing this elusive natural phenomenon on a winter tour from Akureyri.

When to Go

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are generally visible around Akureyri from September through April—when Iceland experiences its darkest and clearest night skies. Travelers often have to seek out the best viewing points (a tour guide can help with that), but the unbelievable display of dancing lights is well worth the effort. Keep in mind that Iceland can experience a few as five hours of daylight during this time of year and that the frozen winter nights are quite cold—be sure to bundle up.

Where to Go

Home to only 18,000 residents, Akureyri is large enough to offer stylish cafes and restaurants, friendly bars, and contemporary art galleries, yet small enough to offer a true taste of life in Iceland away from the capital city of Reykjavik. Northern Lights tours take you away from any light pollution in town and out into the north Iceland countryside for the best shot at catching the natural phenomenon.

How to Go

As you head out into the quiet wilderness, Northern Lights tours from Akureyri highlight Iceland’s natural beauty, soaring peaks, and clear lakes—the perfect backdrop for nature’s winter light show. Head out on a coach tour into the Icelandic countryside, choose boat cruise for a Northern Lights hunt, or tackle off-road routes on a 4x4 jeep safari, all with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

Reykjavik is a famously expensive city, where a beer in a bar might set you back as much as a meal in another city. With careful planning, though, you don’t have to spend a fortune on sightseeing. Here are our tips for saving money in the Icelandic capital.

Book a Super Saver

For those who want to do as much as possible, it pays to book a Super Saver, which combines two best-selling activities—such as whale watching and a northern lights hunt—into one tour at a discounted price.

Take a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Compact Reykjavik is a highly walkable city, but some of its most popular attractions, such as the Laugardalur Valley, are spread out. To save on transportation, a hop-on hop-off tour carries you all around the city and to farther-flung sights for just one price, plus you can enjoy the benefit of onboard commentary to learn about the city's attractions as you go. 

Choose a Tour That Includes Lunch or Tastings

Instead of booking a regular walking tour, choose one that includes food tastings to save on the cost of meals. Some experiences, such as cooking classes and history-themed walking tours, even include a full lunch. And, rather than spending too much money on beer, book a pub crawl or brewery tour that includes drinks. 

Buy an Attractions Pass

Save on admission fees and other costs by purchasing a multiattraction City Card. Valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours, these passes include entry to top attractions, use of the public bus, and discounts at restaurants.

The black-sand beaches, sea cliffs, and fjords of the Icelandic coastline host a diverse cast of creatures, from dolphins and whales to throngs of orange-billed puffins. Here’s what you need to know about Reykjavik-based RIB (rigid inflatable boat) cruises, which allow you to get close to coastal wildlife during exhilarating high-speed tours.

Highlights

• Admire the Reykjavik skyline and spot noteworthy landmarks, such as Harpa Concert Hall and the Sólfar (Sun Voyager) sculpture, from the water.

• Cruise through Faxaflói Bay, stopping at Lundey Island or Akurey Island to see nesting birds during a puffin tour.

• Scan the water for sightings of surfacing minke and humpback whales.

• Enjoy the excitement of whizzing across the water at high speed.

• Learn about the behavioral patterns of seabirds, such as auks and gannets, from your guide.

Things to Know

• Most RIB tours depart from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. 

• Puffins are most visible during the breeding season, May to August. You can spot whales and dolphins in Iceland year-round, but more species are present during the summer months.

• Speedboats generally accommodate small groups of 15 people or fewer, guaranteeing an intimate experience. 

• Most RIB tours provide warm waterproof overalls and life jackets.

• Many whale-watching tours offer complimentary tickets for another speedboat cruise if you don’t spot any whales the first time around.

• RIB speedboat tours typically last one to two hours. 

• Boat engines can be switched off so as not to alarm wildlife and to allow you to appreciate the sounds of nature.