Best time to visit Iceland<\/b><\/h2>\n
The best time to visit Iceland depends greatly on what you want to see and do. If you\u2019re dreaming of snow-dusted landscapes and the northern lights, come in winter. If wildlife-watching and hiking is your priority, book a trip for summer.<\/p>\n
Summer (June\u2013August) is Iceland\u2019s busiest season. Travellers take advantage of the near-endless days, which see as little as four hours of darkness (the sun can set as late as 11pm and rise again as early as 3am).<\/p>\n
This is the ideal time for whale-watching. In summer, the majestic giants feed in the waters around Iceland, and tours leave from capital Reykjav\u00edk in the hope of a sighting. The lengthy summer days mean you\u2019ve got hours to explore the dinky capital on foot, and outdoor activities, such as hiking and canoeing, won\u2019t be cut short by the setting sun.<\/p>\n
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\ud83d\udcf7 kbuck10<\/a><\/p>\n Temperatures can creep up above 20\u00b0C in summer, particularly in Reykjav\u00edk and southern Iceland, though average highs tend to be around 14\u00b0C. In the country\u2019s northern reaches, such as in tiny second-city Akureyri, temperatures generally fall a couple of degrees below the capital.<\/p>\n Despite relatively mild temperatures, the weather in Iceland is changeable, even in summer. The country is notorious for having glorious sunshine one minute and battering rain the next, so it\u2019s wise to keep a waterproof coat on hand.<\/p>\n In winter, temperatures tend to mill around the 1\u20132\u00b0C marker, often dipping below freezing. From December through to February there\u2019s a decent chance of snow, and a fresh coating of the white stuff adds a magical touch to the stunning landscape. But during the peak of winter, daylight is elusive. There\u2019s around four hours on average (generally from around 11am\u20133pm) and you\u2019ll need to make the most of them.<\/p>\n The depths of winter are also the best time to chase the northern lights. You\u2019ve a chance of seeing them anytime from September to early April, but the odds are best in December and January, when nights are at their longest and darkest. Pay close attention to the weather forecast<\/a> and the aurora forecast<\/a> before you set out \u2013\u00a0if the skies are extremely cloudy, your luck will most likely be out.<\/p>\n For the best chance of a sighting, it\u2019s wise to book onto a tour \u00a0\u2013 most will be run by guides with years of experience chasing the aurora. Some operators (such as Super Jeep<\/a>) will take you out a second time for free if you\u2019ve been unlucky on your first tour. If you\u2019re determined to seek them alone, head away from the glowing capital and other residential areas bathed in artificial light. Carefully plan your route, and don\u2019t travel if conditions are wet or icy.<\/p>\n Activities such as snowmobiling, dog-sledding and even skiing are extra incentives to travel in winter. Be aware though that roads in the Highlands are closed due to treacherous conditions during the winter months \u2013 that means some natural wonders, such as the otherworldly plains of Landmannalaugar and its popular hiking trails, will be off limits.<\/p>\n You may also want to time your trip to coincide with one of Iceland\u2019s colourful festivals. Most famous is the Iceland Airwaves Music Festival<\/a> in November (6th\u20139th November in 2019). It celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2018, and for the past two decades has been bringing alternative artists from across the globe to Reykjav\u00edk. Past performers have included big names such as Florence and the Machine and Iceland-born Bj\u00f6rk.<\/p>\n Snapping at Airwaves\u2019 heels is the Secret Solstice Festival<\/a>, also dubbed the Midnight Sun Music Festival. Taking up a few days in the peak of summer (21st\u201323rd June 2019), this weekend blast happens at Laugardalur, an area in the east of the capital known for its vast geothermal pool. Musical genres range from indie to hip-hop, with previous headliners including Radiohead and the Wu-Tang Clan.<\/p>\n Other events worth travelling for include the Annual Icelandic Beer Festival in February, which takes place at trendy Kex Hostel<\/a>. There\u2019s also the varied Reykjav\u00edk Art Festival<\/a> in the first half of June, and the magical Christmas Village that pops up in Hafnarfj\u00f6r\u00f0ur (around a 20-minute drive south of Reykjav\u00edk) each December.<\/p>\n The Northern lights at Seltjarnanes – Reykjavik \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0emanuele.semplici<\/a><\/p>\n When it comes to the best way to travel around Iceland, renting a car will give you the most freedom. There\u2019s nothing quite like taking to an open Icelandic road, with volcanic plains and snow-crowned mountains all around you. Driving allows you to cover plenty of ground and lets you stick to your own schedule. Good, reliable rental companies include Blue Car Rental<\/a> and Reykjav\u00edk Cars<\/a>.<\/p>\n There are some important things to remember. For a start, not all routes are created equal. The mountain roads in the \u00a0Interior are spectacular, but they\u2019re also rugged and gravelly, and should only be traversed in a 4×4 drive. These highland roads are known as \u201cF-roads\u201d, and famous examples include F35, or the Kj\u00f6lur Route, which opens out near the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall. Interior roads are only open throughout the summer, and the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (IRCA)<\/a> has up-to-date information about road closures and conditions.<\/p>\n Other routes, such as Route 1, the famous 1,332km ring road that loops around the entire country, offers much better conditions \u2013 though you\u2019ll still be more comfortable in a sturdy, 4×4 vehicle.<\/p>\n Never stray from marked roads. Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland \u2013 it\u2019s also dangerous and can cause irreparable damage to the country\u2019s terrain and wildlife. You should also be vigilant when it comes to fuelling your car, as there can be long stretches between petrol stations.<\/p>\n The sun voyager in\u00a0Reykjav\u00edk\u00a0 \ud83d\udcf7 jcstomper\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n If you\u2019d prefer not to drive yourself, guided tours are another great option \u2013 and, given Iceland\u2019s often testing terrain, even some of the most independent-minded travellers take up this option from time to time. An organised tour means you can sit back and drink in the scenery, while an expert guide feeds you wisdom about Iceland\u2019s rich culture and fascinating geography.<\/p>\n Though on the pricier end of the scale, Super Jeep<\/a> is a top pick. Tours include northern lights safaris and day-long expeditions to ice caves and glaciers, and groups are kept small. Another good choice is Extreme Iceland<\/a>, whose group tours are slightly cheaper and include destinations such as the Golden Circle (see itineraries below for more info) or the wild Skaftafell wilderness area. Reykjav\u00edk Excursions<\/a> offers the best value of all, with tours taking in Iceland\u2019s popular South region, parts of wild West Iceland and more.<\/p>\n However, if you\u2019re on a budget and don\u2019t mind sticking to a tighter schedule, it\u2019s possible to get around Iceland without a car. Bus routes criss-cross the country and are run by a handful of operators.<\/p>\n Str\u00e6t\u00f3<\/a> buses cover almost the entire perimeter of the country, from Reykjav\u00edk to the west and up to the northern region surrounding the city of Akureyri too. Iceland On Your Own<\/a> (organised by private company Reykjav\u00edk Excursions<\/a>) is another wide-reaching network. From June through to September, using this operator you can slice through the Interior and explore parts of the Southern Region too. The far east of the country, where you\u2019ll find picturesque fjords and sleepy fishing towns, is served by the SVAust system<\/a>. There\u2019s also an Airport Express service<\/a> (operated by Gray Line) from Keflav\u00edk International Airport into the city of Reykjav\u00edk.<\/p>\n You can plan your route using Iceland\u2019s practical Public Transport website<\/a> or by visiting an operator\u2019s dedicated website.<\/p>\n Iceland has a number of airports and a domestic flight can be a fast and cost-effective way of travelling across the country too \u2013 though you\u2019ll sadly skim over Iceland\u2019s unique landscapes. If you want to make a quick journey beyond Reykjav\u00edk compare bus prices with those of Iceland\u2019s two domestic airlines:\u00a0Air Iceland Connect<\/a> and Eagle Air<\/a>. Remember that Iceland\u2019s unpredictable weather can often disrupt flight schedules.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The currency here is the Icelandic kr\u00f3na, meaning \u201ccrown\u201d, and is denoted as ISK. Coin denominations are 1, 5, 10, 50 and 100, while banknote values include 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000. At the time of writing, 100 ISK is equal to around \u00a30.64 or $0.83.<\/p>\n The short answer is: yes. Iceland is not known for being a budget destination and capital Reykjav\u00edk can be an expensive city to explore. The slightly longer answer is: there are ways to experience the country for less.<\/p>\n Eating out is especially pricey and a meal for one person in a lower-end restaurant will likely cost at least 2,400 ISK (around \u00a315\/$19.86). For a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant, you\u2019re looking at closer to 6,000 ISK (around \u00a338\/49.66). The price of a pint of beer tends to be about 1,200 ISK (around \u00a37.60\/$9.93), and\u00a0a glass of wine is around the same.<\/p>\n Groceries aren\u2019t cheap either. A loaf of bread, for example, will probably be around 300 ISK (\u00a31.92\/$2.48) \u2013 but you\u2019ll still save on funds if you cook meals yourself. Leave room in your budget for dinner at a few carefully selected restaurants then, if pennies are tight, prepare food from your accommodation the rest of the time.<\/p>\n Entry to attractions such as the Blue Lagoon<\/b>, Iceland\u2019s top geothermal spa, come with a pretty weighty price tag too. The cost of a day visit is from 6,990 ISK (\u00a344.71\/$57.85). If you can\u2019t quite swing it, don\u2019t be disheartened: there are other options available. Another favourite is Nauth\u00f3lsv\u00edk geothermal beach, a golden strand edged with warm waters perfect for a dip. Admission to the beach, the hot tub and the facilities is completely free in the summer, and only 500 ISK (\u00a33.20\/$4.14) in winter (when the water temperatures regularly drop below freezing).<\/p>\n While most of the museums in Reykjav\u00edk have an entry charge, you can find free things to do in the city too. There\u2019s no charge to climb to the top of Harpa, the city\u2019s concert hall, and look out across the ocean. It\u2019s also free to watch the sun set over Tj\u00f6rnin lake in the heart of the city. The best advice is to be realistic about your budget and prioritise the activities that are most important to you. For more money-saving hacks, check out our takeaway tips section at the end of the guide.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Finding a cheap place to stay in Iceland can be tricky, but opting for a hostel means accommodation should gobble up less of your budget. Here are some of the best hostels in the capital city and beyond.<\/p>\n Kex Hostel<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n Consistently ranked among the best hostels in Iceland and housed in an old biscuit factory, Kex oozes industrial chic. You\u2019ll find it in the centre of Reykjav\u00edk, a stone\u2019s throw from the waterfront. Enjoy a pint and a burger in the buzzing gastro pub, lounge in the book-filled common area, then retire to a pared-back dorm or private double room.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Loft Hi Hostel<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n This chic spot in central Reykjav\u00edk has been voted Iceland\u2019s best hostel on more than one occasion, and it\u2019s easy to see why. Dorms and private rooms are sleek, the rooftop terrace offers stunning views across the city, and there\u2019s a whole lot to be getting involved with, from free art workshops to yoga classes. This one\u2019s a great option for solo travellers.<\/p>\n Bus Hostel Reykjav\u00edk<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n Perched above Reykjav\u00edk Terminal, Iceland\u2019s key bus station, Bus has one of the best hostel lounges in Reykjav\u00edk, all retro patterned wallpaper, mirrors in gilded frames and vinyl records. Rooms, on the other hand, are fuss free with whitewashed walls and simple wooden beds. There\u2019s a lively bar onsite too.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Galaxy Pod Hostel<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n This one gets points for sheer ingenuity. Dorm beds are replaced with futuristic \u201cspace pods\u201d reminiscent of Tokyo\u2019s famed capsule hotels. Make friends in the communal area, with its slouchy sofas and blackboard walls, then crawl into your pod, which comes complete with a memory foam mattress. The hostel is situated on Laugavegur, Reykjav\u00edk\u2019s main street, so you\u2019ll be close to all the action.<\/p>\n Hlemmur Square<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n Hlemmur Square is both a luxury hotel and a chic hostel (the hostel occupies the building\u2019s 3rd and 4th floors). Ideal for couples, it\u2019s quieter than some of Reykjav\u00edk\u2019s other lodgings, with a minimalist design and a stylish bar serving craft beer and cocktails. It\u2019s got a prime spot on Laugavegur, right across from the eccentric Icelandic Phallological Museum.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Akureyri Backpackers<\/a><\/b>, Akureyri<\/b><\/p>\n Iceland\u2019s second-largest city has a couple of great hostels. Our top pick is Akureyri Backpackers in the city\u2019s centre. Rooms are simple but clean and bright, and there are modern facilities throughout, including a well-stocked kitchen and a casual bar. You\u2019re also perfectly placed to go in search of northern Iceland\u2019s natural wonders, from Lake M\u00fdvatn to Go\u00f0afoss waterfall.<\/p>\n Go\u00f0afoss waterfall \ud83d\udcf7 jorgebfoto<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hafnarstr\u00e6ti Hostel<\/a><\/b>, Akureyri<\/b><\/p>\n Another hostel that favours pods or \u201ccapsules\u201d over traditional dorm beds, this budget option in Akureyri is one of the newer spots in town, opened in 2017. Communal areas are low-key but comfy, and single or double-bed pods are available. Travellers enjoy its location in the heart of the city.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Teh\u00fasi\u00f0 Hostel<\/a><\/b>, Egilssta\u00f0ir<\/b><\/p>\n Situated in East Iceland\u2019s key town of Egilssta\u00f0ir, Teh\u00fasi\u00f0 is a hostel with a heart. It\u2019s owned and run by a local couple, who are committed to making their accommodation sustainable and environmentally friendly. There are four dormitories and two-family rooms, and you\u2019ll be made to feel right at home at the hostel\u2019s caf\u00e9\/bar. Fuel up here with a healthy Icelandic breakfast before hitting the road.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Havar\u00ed Hostel<\/a><\/b>, Dj\u00fapivogur<\/b><\/p>\n This family-run spot has a picturesque location on an organic vegetable farm in Iceland\u2019s Eastfjords. Flanked by mountains and set in a wildflower-flecked valley, the hostel occupies a simple wooden building with both dorms and private rooms available. The spacious caf\u00e9 also hosts live music events and offers a veg-laden menu whipped up with organic produce from the site.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Borgarnes HI Hostel<\/a><\/b>, Borgarnes<\/b><\/p>\n Set in the pretty town of Borgarnes, this hostel is the perfect base from which to explore West Iceland. Borgarnes is less than two hours\u2019 drive from Sn\u00e6fellsj\u00f6kull National Park and is often labelled the \u201cgateway\u201d to the stunning Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The hostel itself is basic but comfortable with airy rooms and spotless kitchens and common areas.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n S\u00cdMA Hostel<\/a><\/b>, Flateyri<\/b><\/p>\n Tucked away in Iceland\u2019s remote Westfjords region, S\u00cdMA Hostel is a comfy place to rest your head while exploring this wild swathe of the country. Communal areas are homely, with leather couches and patterned rugs, and the mountain views are out of this world.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Despite Iceland\u2019s relatively compact size, you could spend weeks traversing the country, marvelling at its natural wonders and hitting the highlights of capital Reykjav\u00edk. So, whether you\u2019ve got a fortnight or five days, these itineraries will help you get the most from your Icelandic adventure.<\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>Seeing Iceland\u2019s classic sights and getting to grips with the capital.<\/p>\n Best time to travel: <\/b>summer or winter.<\/p>\n Day 1<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Fly into Keflav\u00edk International Airport \u2013 aim for a morning flight so you\u2019ll have the whole day before you \u2013 and hop onto the Airport Express bus, which will whisk you into Reykjav\u00edk, the perfect base for your trip.<\/p>\n This pint-sized city is unlike other European capitals. Small in size, but big in heart, it\u2019s more like a little town than a metropolis, with rows of rainbow houses, uber-friendly locals and a handful of unique sights.<\/p>\n Start your day by gazing up at Hallgr\u00edmskirkja, the futuristic church that watches over the city. For 1,000 ISK (around \u00a36.40\/$8.29) you can also head to the top of the tower.<\/p>\n Next make for Laugavegur, Iceland\u2019s main commercial street. Here you\u2019ll find quirky indie stores, from clothing boutiques to record shops, plus little galleries, caf\u00e9s and more on the streets that sprout around it. The Icelandic Phallological Museum, a curious venue showcasing more than 200 penises or \u201cphallic specimens\u201d (yes, you read correctly…) also has its home on Laugavegur.<\/p>\n Pass the afternoon with a visit to Aurora Reykjav\u00edk: The Northern Lights Center, whose interactive displays are all about the elusive aurora borealis, its science and its cultural significance. The theatre here has a huge screen showing stunning images of the aurora and there\u2019s even a cosy space filled with mats for you to lie back and enjoy them.<\/p>\n It\u2019s also worth checking what\u2019s going on at Harpa. This cultural centre and concert hall has a whole range of events from farmers\u2019 markets to musical performances, plus panoramic views from its top floors.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re travelling in summer, spend the evening at one of Reykjav\u00edk\u2019s trendy bars. Our favourite is Brav\u00f3, a laid-back spot on Laugavegur with low lighting, scatter cushions and a great selection of beers. Long-standing Kaffibarinn is the place for true party-goers.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re here in winter, begin your search for the northern lights on your very first evening. This way you\u2019ll have more chances to try again if you\u2019re not initially lucky.<\/p>\n Reykjav\u00edk \ud83d\udcf7 jklongcourt2708\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Day 2<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n The lauded Golden Circle is a triad of Iceland\u2019s most popular natural sights, all within easy reach of one another. Many travellers opt for a guided tour, but given the conditions are safe, you can head out independently too.<\/p>\n Start with \u00deingvellir National Park, just under an hour\u2019s drive northeast of Reykjav\u00edk. Hiking trails will take you across the rocky terrain of the park, which is known as the founding place of Iceland\u2019s earliest form of parliament. It\u2019s also famed for sitting across two separate tectonic plates: North America and Eurasia.<\/p>\n Next, head further east still to reach the Geysir geothermal area with its belching mud pots, steaming hot springs, and Strokkur, a super-active geyser that shoots water up to 30 metres into the air every five minutes or so.<\/p>\n The day\u2019s last stop before heading back to Reykjav\u00edk is Gullfoss, a thundering waterfall that crashes over 30 metres in two impressive stages. From Gullfoss, it\u2019s under a two-hour drive west to reach Reykjav\u00edk once more.<\/p>\n Strokkur \ud83d\udcf7 simon.prochaska\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Day 3<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Few travellers leave Iceland without a dip in the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa in the Reykjanes Peninsula around a 45-minute drive southwest of Reykjav\u00edk. Feel any stresses seep away as you soak in popping cyan waters, framed by black volcanic rock. You can even treat yourself to a natural mud mask at the in-water \u201cmask bar\u201d.<\/p>\n Once suitably relaxed, don\u2019t rush back to the city \u2013 the often-underrated Reykjanes Peninsula has more to offer than its famous spa. For a start, the peninsula boasts the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark. The park covers more than 800 square kilometres of ground and encompasses sites such as the Hafnarberg bird cliffs. Also here is the Bridge Between Continents, a little footbridge allowing you to walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.<\/p>\n Day 4<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n For your fourth day in Iceland, set your sights south. The breathtaking Sk\u00f3gafoss waterfall (which you\u2019ve more than likely seen in photographs) is a two-hour drive southeast of the city. It boasts a mighty 60-metre drop and on a sunny day, you may well see a rainbow. The waterfall is just minutes from the tiny village of Sk\u00f3gar, where you can stop for a coffee. An interesting string of museums here explore Icelandic culture, maritime history and agriculture too.<\/p>\n From here, the coastal village of V\u00edk \u00ed M\u00fdrdal is just half an hour further east. Feast on seafood for lunch, then make for the black sands and basalt stacks of nearby Reynisfjara Beach. Also close is Dyrh\u00f3laey, a 120-metre-high promontory that arches into the sea and makes for stunning photographs.<\/p>\n Make your last stop of the day at Fja\u00f0r\u00e1rglj\u00fafur. About an hour northeast of V\u00edk on Route 1, this striking canyon and its surrounding scenery looks as though it belongs on another planet. Its walls plunge 100 metres to the ground and keen hikers can walk between them (though be prepared for some wet conditions) or take in the views from the top.<\/p>\n Day 5<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Beyond ice and fire, waterfalls and wildlife, Iceland has caves aplenty. Spend the last day of your trip heading in search of some of Iceland\u2019s subterranean wonders.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re travelling in winter, set your sights on glacial Vatnaj\u00f6kull National Park. The icy caves here are ephemeral and ever-changing. They\u2019re formed in summer when water forces its way through the glacier, and you can visit from around November to March, when the flow of water has ceased, and ice-blue tunnels and caverns are left. The caves emerge in slightly different forms and locations each year, with the most famous being the vast Crystal Cave. Never attempt to enter a glacial cave alone \u2013 you should always take a trip with an experienced guide who will be able to lead you safely through the caverns. Popular tours include those by Extreme Iceland<\/a>, with most picking passengers up from near the glacial lagoon of J\u00f6kuls\u00e1rl\u00f3n.<\/p>\n Summer trippers won\u2019t be able to see the caves at Vatnaj\u00f6kull, but don\u2019t fear. Iceland boasts underground delights for the warmer seasons too. If you\u2019ve got your heart set on some ice, head for Langj\u00f6kull glacier in West Iceland. Its man-made tunnels mean ice-caving is a year-round pursuit. Or for something altogether different, head to the chocolately lava tubes of V\u00ed\u00f0gelmir, Iceland\u2019s largest cave. You\u2019ll don a hard hat and go deep underground for a guided tour that includes the odd ghost story.<\/p>\n At the end of your tour, head back to Reykjav\u00edk for a last chance to explore the city.<\/p>\n The Blue Lagoon \ud83d\udcf7 beforeyoufindit\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>incredible hikes and a chance to discover some Icelandic wildlife.<\/p>\n Best time to travel: <\/b>summer.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Day 1<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Arrive in Reykjav\u00edk and spend the day exploring the city\u2019s top sights.<\/p>\n Day 2 <\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Spend your second day seeking out some Icelandic wildlife. Summer is the time for whale-watching, so make a beeline for the Old Harbour where tours leave throughout the season. Whale-watching expeditions will generally last around 3 hours and the route you take will be dependent on conditions (you should wrap up warm whatever the weather \u2013\u00a0it can get chilly out at sea even in summer). Expert guides will give you the best chance of sighting minke or humpback whales and even the odd dolphin. The Reykjav\u00edk Excursions<\/a> tours have a great reputation.<\/p>\n After a morning spent whale watching, arrive back on shore and fuel up with some lunch in the city. We recommend Caf\u00e9 Babal\u00fa for a light bite and a mean hot chocolate.<\/p>\n Continue your wildlife-watching adventure by heading back to Reykjav\u00edk Harbour, where puffin tours also depart. Most guided trips head out towards the rocky islands of Akurey and Lundey in the Kollafj\u00f6r\u00f0ur fjord. Both have vast seabird colonies, including gulls, black guillemots and, of course, puffins. You won\u2019t disembark from your boat but you\u2019ll sail as close as possible to the islands to catch a good glimpse of these adorable birds with their sunset-red bills and feet.<\/p>\n Pass the evening by grabbing dinner in Reykjav\u00edk (see the Iceland food section for some more affordable recommendations). Then if you\u2019ve got some energy left, head to H\u00farra Bar on Tryggvagata street, where there\u2019s nearly always live music.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7 r3dmax<\/a><\/p>\n Day 3 <\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Head out on a Golden Circle tour to see a trio of Iceland\u2019s most revered natural wonders.<\/p>\n Days 4\u20136<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Summer offers the chance to explore Iceland\u2019s Interior or \u201cHighlands\u201d area, where the rugged roads are closed throughout the winter.<\/p>\n This remote region is a dream for hikers. You\u2019ll find no towns or villages, but many organised trails zig-zag through the area. The most popular of these is the lengthy Laugavegur trail<\/a>.<\/p>\n You can begin this trail in the Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve, where scenery is made up of rhyolite bluffs, naturally earthy pink and rich yellow-brown, and bubbling hot springs. From here the route covers more than 50km, winding down south to tree-dotted \u00de\u00f3rm\u00f6rk, or the \u201cvalley of Thor\u201d. On the way you\u2019ll pass lava fields and lakes, waterfalls and colour-splashed mountains \u2013 it\u2019s Icelandic wilderness in its purest form.<\/p>\n The route takes about three days to complete. Travel the whole stretch, staying in the mountain huts en route (make sure you book in advance<\/a>) or camping nearby them. It will be a journey you\u2019ll never forget.<\/p>\n If that option sounds too strenuous, tackle a portion of it on the Sulphur Wave trail, a 4km loop taking in bright Mount Brennisteinsalda. Fill days 5 and 6 with ideas from our \u201chotspots tour\u201d instead (see above).<\/p>\n Landmannalaugar \ud83d\udcf7 dontwait_livenow\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Day 7 <\/b><\/em><\/p>\n After days of trekking, finish up your trip with a soothing soak in some geothermally heated waters. Depending on your budget, choose between the legendary Blue Lagoon in the Reykjanes Peninsula, or the Nauth\u00f3lsv\u00edk geothermal beach in Reykjav\u00edk.<\/p>\n Board your flight from Keflav\u00edk International Airport feeling refreshed.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Best for: <\/b>Wide open roads, lesser-travelled corners and seeing large swathes of the country.<\/p>\n Best time to travel: <\/b>While Route 1 (the Ring Road, which travels Iceland\u2019s perimeter) is open throughout the winter, this particular self-drive itinerary is best tackled in summer. Conditions will be safer and you\u2019ll have ample daylight hours to soak in views from the open road. Always take care when driving independently in Iceland and double check the weather before you leave your base each day.<\/p>\n Day 1<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Fly into Reykjav\u00edk and spend the day enjoying the capital\u2019s attractions before hitting the road the next day. Overnight in the city.<\/p>\n Day 2<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n While the Golden Circle is technically a deviation from the Ring Road, most travellers place this famous trio of sights high on their wish list. Journey between \u00deingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall, before making your way back for another night in the capital.<\/p>\n Day 3 <\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Now it\u2019s time to get your Ring Road adventure well and truly underway. Make sure your ride is fuelled up and ready to go, then strike south-east for the first leg of your journey.<\/p>\n Just under an hour\u2019s drive will land you in Selfoss, a rural riverside town with impressive mountain views and several great places for a cup of coffee. Caf\u00e9 and bookstore B\u00f3kakaffi\u00f0<\/a> (meaning books and coffee) is our top pick.<\/p>\n Once you\u2019re suitably refreshed, continue for around another hour southeast until you reach Seljalandsfoss, a jaw-dropping waterfall visible from the Ring Road. Don\u2019t be content with the view from your car though \u2013\u00a0this 60-metre cascade is unique in that you can walk right behind the falling sheets of water. Pull on a decent raincoat (you\u2019ll inevitably get a little soggy from the spray) and follow the designated path around the waterfall. It\u2019s a great photo opportunity, though it\u2019s wise to invest in a protective waterproof case for your phone or camera beforehand.<\/p>\n Another 25-minute drive in the same direction and you\u2019ll be rewarded with another waterfall. Sk\u00f3gafoss, also visible from the Ring Road, is easily accessible by foot. Park up and walk across the relatively even terrain to the thundering curtain of water, then head for lunch in the nearby village of Sk\u00f3gar.<\/p>\n Continue your outdoor adventure in the afternoon, by making the 10-minute journey from Sk\u00f3gar to the S\u00f3lheimaj\u00f6kull glacier parking lot. It\u2019s from here that most guided hiking tours on the S\u00f3lheimaj\u00f6kull glacier will leave. Usually lasting three hours, tours (such as this one with Extreme Iceland<\/a>) will teach you the basics of glacier hiking, then lead you across vast blue-hued ice sheets pointing out the most striking crags and crevices as you go.<\/p>\n The last stop of the day is the little village of V\u00edk \u00ed M\u00fdrdal, half an hour drive southeast on Route 1, and your base for the evening. Feast at one of the brilliant seafood restaurants here, then rest up ready for Day 4.<\/p>\n Sk\u00f3gafoss \ud83d\udcf7 dfesar\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Day 4<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Upon arriving in V\u00edk, most visitors rush to the famed black-sand beaches nearby \u2013 but save that for later and start your day by enjoying the charms of the village itself. Visit the picturesque V\u00edk \u00ed M\u00fdrdal Church and take a peek inside the small but compelling Skaftfellingur Museum, with its range of historical displays.<\/p>\n In the afternoon, take a wander on the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara and drink in views of Dyrh\u00f3laey.<\/p>\n Round off the evening by sipping some suds at Smi\u00f0jan Bruggh\u00fas<\/a>, the village\u2019s hip brewpub.<\/p>\n Reynisfjara \ud83d\udcf7 emersonarchie<\/a><\/p>\n Day 5<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Begin the day by making the 1-hour-45-minute journey to Skaftafell natural area, part of Vatnaj\u00f6kull National Park. The reserve\u2019s rugged expanse is perfect fodder for walkers, who\u2019ll pass stark peaks, glaciers and waterfalls as they follow one of the many trails here. One of the most popular routes takes hikers on a 1.5km jaunt from the visitor centre to Svartifoss waterfall. This 20-metre sheet of water falls over rock formations often compared to the pipes of a church organ.<\/p>\n Next, jump back onto Route 1 and continue east to J\u00f6kuls\u00e1rl\u00f3n, a glittering glacial lagoon that could be plucked straight from the Antarctic. The surface is dotted with great hunks of blue-tinged ice and you can even take a boat to the water if you wish. Also here is Diamond Beach, a slither of black sand where you may well spot the odd seal.<\/p>\n If you find yourself in Vatnaj\u00f6kull National Park in winter, you could book yourself onto a glacier-caves tour (see our 7-day itinerary for inspiration).<\/p>\n Finally, head around an hour northeast on Route 1 to the fishing town of H\u00f6fn, where you should stay for the night.<\/p>\n Day 6<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Many travellers skip through East Iceland or miss it out altogether. But once you experience the region\u2019s unspoilt beauty, all flat lakes, fjords and fishing villages, you\u2019ll struggle to see why.<\/p>\n Begin your tour of East Iceland by travelling from H\u00f6fn to Egilssta\u00f0ir, the largest town in Iceland. You\u2019ll be on the road for a sizable stretch of time \u2013\u00a0around 3 hours 30 minutes \u2013\u00a0so break up the drive with a pitstop in Dj\u00fapivogur. This little town, an hour and a half into the journey, offers great vistas of moody mountain B\u00falandstindur and is an easy spot for a refresher.<\/p>\n Continue on \u2013 the mountainous scenery will be spectacular \u2013\u00a0until you reach Egilssta\u00f0ir. While you may be burning to get out into the Icelandic countryside, take some time to explore East Iceland\u2019s key town. The top attraction is the East Iceland Heritage Museum, which provides good grounding for your travels through the region. It also includes an exhibition on Iceland\u2019s wild reindeer, only found in this part of the country.<\/p>\n Overnight in Egilssta\u00f0ir.<\/p>\n Day 7<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Spend your seventh day on the road exploring East Iceland\u2019s backyard. Hallormsstadur National Forest, which sprawls for 7.4 square kilometres hugging picturesque Lagarflj\u00f3t lake, is a stone\u2019s throw from the town. Trails criss-cross the woodland, ranging from short footpaths to longer routes (up to 7km) sweeping by glacial streams and waterfalls. Also make time to visit nearby Hengifoss, one of Iceland\u2019s highest falls \u2013 it\u2019s unique for the terraced, rust-red rock that the water rushes over.<\/p>\n Spend another night dining and sleeping in Egilssta\u00f0ir.<\/p>\n Day 8 <\/b><\/em><\/p>\n It\u2019s worth taking a slight detour from Route 1 (around half an hour further east on Route 93) to reach the gorgeous waterside town of Sey\u00f0isfj\u00f6r\u00f0ur. This is postcard Iceland, all multi-coloured houses and mountain vistas, with a burgeoning art scene to boot. For the best views, take to the water on a kayak, and be sure to duck your head into the avant-garde Skaftfell Center for Visual Art too.<\/p>\n If you can tear yourself from picture-perfect Sey\u00f0isfj\u00f6r\u00f0ur, then begin your afternoon with a half-hour drive farther east still to reach remote Skalanes Nature Reserve. The site includes a dinky research centre and acres of rolling Icelandic countryside with abundant birdlife.<\/p>\n Head back to Egilssta\u00f0ir for one more sleep.<\/p>\n Day 9 <\/b><\/em><\/p>\n It\u2019s time to discover Iceland\u2019s northern reaches. From Egilssta\u00f0ir, head north on the Ring Road for around one hour and a half, until you reach a turning for Route 864. Here you should take another worthwhile detour from the Ring Road.\u00a0Some 40 minutes north on Route 864 will carry you to Dettifoss, another of Iceland\u2019s watery wonders, touted as having the greatest volume of water of any falls in Europe.<\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve marvelled at Dettifoss, jump back in the car, make your way to Route 1 and travel half an hour west to Reykjahl\u00ed\u00f0. This blink-and-you\u2019ll-miss-it town is an ideal base for visiting Lake M\u00fdvatn with its electric-blue waters.<\/p>\n Admire views of the beautiful volcanic lake, before taking a dip at the M\u00fdvatn Nature Baths, northern Iceland\u2019s answer to the much-hyped Blue Lagoon. Also within very easy reach is the N\u00e1mafjall geothermal area, with its bubbling mud pools and steaming hot springs \u2013 park up here and wind through the designated trails.<\/p>\n Bed down in Reykjahl\u00ed\u00f0 for the night.<\/p>\n Myvatn Nature Baths \ud83d\udcf7 lifewedaretolive\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Day 10 <\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Take another rewarding detour on Day 10 up to H\u00fasavik, around 45 minutes north of Reykjahl\u00ed\u00f0 on Route 87. The town of H\u00fasavik is trumpeted as the \u201cWhale Capital of the World\u201d, so take advantage of one of the regular whale-watching tours leaving from the harbour in summer. The H\u00fasavik Whale Museum has plenty of exhibits on these wondrous creatures too.<\/p>\n Next get yourself back onto Route 1 (this time travelling south via Routes 85 and 845) and in around 40 minutes you\u2019ll get to Go\u00f0afoss, a spectacular waterfall just off the Ring Road. You\u2019ll quickly see why it\u2019s nicknamed the \u201cwaterfall of the gods\u201d.<\/p>\n Another trip west on Route 1 and you\u2019ll arrive in Akureyri, Iceland\u2019s second city. You\u2019ll no doubt be exhausted from the day\u2019s adventures, so set up camp in Akureyri, ready to explore the next day.<\/p>\n Husavik\u00a0\ud83d\udcf7\u00a0emanuele.semplici<\/a><\/p>\n Day 11<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Akureyri is consistently overlooked in favour of capital Reykjav\u00edk, but this little city has a lot to offer too. Ever a crowd-pleaser is the Akureyri Botanical Garden, with hundreds of species of Icelandic flora to admire. History buffs will love the Akureyri Museum, which delves into local traditions and folklore. Lovers of architecture, meanwhile, should make a beeline for the sleek Akureyri Church, which has become a symbol of the city.<\/p>\n Akureyri has some trendy spots for a sundowner too \u2013 snug R5 Bar<\/a> gets points for its down-to-earth vibe and great array of beers. If you\u2019re after live music, concert venue Gr\u00e6ni Hatturinn welcomes a steady stream of indie bands and artists.<\/p>\n Bed down in Akureyri for the night.<\/p>\n Day 12<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Continue your journey west along Route 1, and at the tiny village of Varmahl\u00ed\u00f0 turn onto Route 75. Eight minutes north on this route will take you to historic Glaumb\u00e6r with its Hobbit-esque turf houses and pretty turf church. Follow the road a little further north and you might even spy some wild horses \u2013\u00a0this region of Skagafj\u00f6r\u00f0ur is famous for them.<\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve taken a good look, head back onto Route 1. Your next stop is Borgarvirki, around one hour and a half southwest of Glaumb\u00e6r. Borgarvirki is a mammoth basalt formation thought to be a historic fortress. It peaks at more than 10 metres and you can take the rocky route to the top (there are some steps) for panoramic views of the surrounding area.<\/p>\n Having snapped some photos and gulped in the fresh air, make your way down and continue south on Route 1 for one hour and a half. Once you reach the intersection with Route 50, follow this road east for 20 minutes until you reach the historic village of Reykholt, the famed home of medieval author and thinker Snorri Sturluson.<\/p>\n While here, take a peek at Snorralaug, a dinky geothermal pool ringed by flagstones. It may not look much, but it\u2019s one of Iceland\u2019s oldest preserved structures, and is thought to have been used by Sturluson himself.<\/p>\n From ancient Reykholt, you have two choices: continue south on the Ring Road and finish up in Reykjav\u00edk once more, or put off the flight home a few more days in favour of exploring West Iceland. Each option is outlined below.<\/p>\n Option 1:<\/b> <\/em>Having discovered a slice of medieval history in Reykholt, begin your journey south on Route 1 towards Reykjav\u00edk. Around 45 minutes into the journey, break off on Route 51 for a quick visit to Akranes, with its pretty lighthouse and absorbing folk museum. From Akranes, it\u2019s a final 50-minute push south until you\u2019re back where you started, in capital Reykjav\u00edk.<\/p>\n Option 2: <\/b><\/em>If you can spare a few extra days, from Reykholt make the 30-minute drive to the town of Borgarnes, one of the most westerly points on the Ring Road. Iceland\u2019s outlying Western Region is not served by Route 1, but it\u2019s well worth the diversion and Borgarnes is the perfect place from which to explore it. Bed down in Borgarnes ready to explore the Sn\u00e6fellsnes Peninsula the next day.<\/p>\n Bonus: Day 13<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Fill your final full day with the best of the West. From Borgarnes, it\u2019s an hour-and-a-half drive to Kirkjufell (Chuch Mountain), a mighty cone-shaped bluff you\u2019ll no doubt have seen in photographs. Beaches and waterfalls sit at the mountain\u2019s feet, and a hiking route forms a ring around its base. Follow the trail before pushing further west still to Sn\u00e6fellsj\u00f6kull National Park, home to Sn\u00e6fellsj\u00f6kull glacier and around half an hour\u2019s drive from Kirkjufell.<\/p>\n Begin your travels in Sn\u00e6fellsj\u00f6kull National Park at the visitor centre, which focuses on the historic importance of fishing here. Armed with plenty of knowledge, you can then take to one of the reserve\u2019s many hiking trails. You could spend days exploring this national park, but if you\u2019ve got just an afternoon follow the path along black sand and pebble beach Dj\u00fapal\u00f3nssandur to Dritv\u00edk cove. The route is only around 1km.<\/p>\n Confident hikers may instead choose to set aside a full day to tackle the journey up Sn\u00e6fellsj\u00f6kull glacier, accompanied by a guide.<\/p>\n Spend your final night in Borgarnes.<\/p>\n Bonus: Day 14<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Wake up bright and early and make the hour-and-a-half journey (mainly on Route 1) down south to Reykjav\u00edk. Explore the city until it\u2019s time to fly home.<\/p>\n Iceland\u2019s Westfjords<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n The breathtaking Westfjords are in Iceland\u2019s far-flung north-western corner. Given its secluded location, this region doesn\u2019t fit neatly into any one itinerary and many visitors skip it altogether. If you\u2019re dreaming of visiting this dramatic segment of the country (and we recommend if possible), consider how best it fits into your own travel schedule.<\/p>\n It may be that you make an extended detour from your Ring Road adventure (routes 60 and 68 spool off from Route 1 and up towards the Westfjords). You could also take a flight from Reykjav\u00edk to the Westfjords region. Flights head into \u00cdsafj\u00f6r\u00f0ur, Gj\u00f6gur and B\u00edldudalur and all take less than one hour.<\/p>\n Either way, we recommend that you spend at least three days exploring this most remote portion of Iceland. Though flights continue to run throughout the winter, the region is most accessible in summer (and you definitely shouldn\u2019t attempt to self-drive the area in the depths of winter).<\/p>\n Top things to do in the Westfjords: <\/b><\/em><\/p>\n Iceland may be a relatively young country, but it\u2019s one with a rich cultural heritage \u2013\u00a0and that\u2019s something that Icelanders are fiercely proud of.<\/p>\n It\u2019s thought that Norsemen (or Vikings) first settled Iceland in the 9th century, and Icelandic sagas, gripping stories relating to events from this early period of Iceland\u2019s history (from 9th\u201311th century) are still an important part of the culture here today. Many foreigners associate the seafaring Vikings with raids and pillages, which is accurate to a certain extent. But many led peaceful lives as fishermen and farmers in Iceland.<\/p>\n Pagan Norse mythology was an important part of Viking culture and is still a source of great fascination for visitors. The tales of the mighty, magical Norse Gods are also chronicled in Iceland\u2019s beloved sagas.<\/p>\n The Saga Museum<\/a> in Reykjav\u00edk offers a glimpse into Icelandic legend. It also focuses on important figures from Iceland\u2019s past, such as Snorri Sturluson, a famed Icelandic writer born in the 12th century and held in great esteem by Icelanders.<\/p>\n Folklore is another important facet of Icelandic culture, and stories about mysterious occurrences and magical beings have been passed down through generations. Once upon a time, the regaling of these myths would have been an Icelander\u2019s principal hobby, and regular stars of folklore legends include elves, trolls and dragons. Guides and locals that you meet during your trip will likely share snippets of these stories with you.<\/p>\n The Northern Lights are also imbued with their own legends and, beyond being a beautiful spectacle, they hold an important place in Icelandic culture. In the past, the lights were both revered and feared, and Norse people believed that the aurora borealis could ease the pain of childbirth. They also thought a mother who looked at the lights while giving birth would have a child born with crossed eyes.<\/p>\n In Norse mythology, the lights also feature as a reflection from Valkyries\u2019 (female warriors) armour. They appear too as \u201cBifrost Bridge\u201d, a glimmering bridge that would lead those killed in battle to their place of rest.<\/p>\n Also interesting are Iceland\u2019s Christmas legends. Icelandic tradition swaps Father Christmas for a 13-strong team of \u201cYule Lads\u201d who visit in the lead-up to the big day and leave gifts for well-behaved children. It\u2019s traditional that children leave a shoe beside their bedroom window, which is then filled with little treats in the 13 days up until Christmas. Each of the mischievous Yule Lads has his own characteristics and habits, from an acute sense of smell to a penchant for the Icelandic yoghurt Skyr. Their mother Gr\u00fdla is said to hunt naughty children and cook them up for dinner. Other than this Christmas in Iceland passes with a bounty of food, gifts and family festivities.<\/p>\n Music has long been an important part of Icelandic culture, and today artists such as Bj\u00f6rk and Of Monsters and Men are taking the world by storm. Contemporary music is celebrated at numerous festivals throughout the year, but more old-school folk music has a place in many an Icelander\u2019s heart too. Traditional Icelandic music is made up of epic and often instrumental pieces that conjure images from the country\u2019s dramatic sagas. Modern Icelandic folk bands such as \u00c1rst\u00ed\u00f0ir are keeping this musical tradition alive. Currently on a world tour,\u00a0they\u2019ve been known to play at cool music venues in downtown Reykjav\u00edk (such as H\u00farra bar), so check their schedule<\/a> before a trip.<\/p>\n Iceland has a significant film industry too, and movies such as 2013\u2019s Of Horses and Men, <\/em>a moving story about a community in a remote part of Iceland, took the world by storm. Film buffs should time their trip for Reykjav\u00edk International Film Festival, from September\u2013October, during which time some of Iceland\u2019s best cinema is showcased.<\/p>\n Modern Icelandic culture is as diverse and as exciting as ever. During your travels, expect to find cutting-edge contemporary galleries in little towns, striking modern architecture, a creative food and drinks scene and a deep passion for the natural world. It\u2019s a place where the past is never forgotten, but the future is unfolding all around.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Icelandic food is wholesome, hearty and generally meat and seafood heavy. Restaurants range from no-frills food trucks to swanky restaurants serving up inventive, chef-driven dishes. From some curious traditional delicacies to Iceland\u2019s more modern foodie delights, we\u2019ve picked the top things to eat in Iceland.<\/p>\n Some of Iceland\u2019s most long-standing dishes may seem bizarre to the foreign visitor. Staples such as har\u00f0fiskur<\/em> (dried fish) are passed down from modern Icelanders\u2019 forefathers, who had to go to great lengths to preserve their precious food supplies throughout the country’s stark, dark winters. Here are some old Icelandic delicacies that have stood the test of time \u2013\u00a0fussy eaters, look away now.<\/p>\n One of Iceland\u2019s most prolific age-old dishes is h\u00e1karl<\/em>, or fermented shark flesh, which is often dubbed the country\u2019s national dish. The fresh flesh contains toxins harmful for humans, but savvy Norsemen discovered that burying it for several months would release these poisons and make the shark safe for consumption. Modern Icelanders follow a similar process today, though the flesh is often left in special containers, rather than buried underground. It\u2019s then offered up in small chunks.<\/p>\n H\u00e1karl <\/em>is the Marmite of Icelandic cuisine \u2013\u00a0some love it, many hate it. The smell is pungent and the taste (especially the aftertaste) overpowering, with many likening it to the flavour of extremely strong cheese. It\u2019s traditionally washed down with Brenniv\u00edn or \u201cBlack Death\u201d, a strong traditional schnapps drink that\u2019s equally divisive.<\/p>\n Another dish reserved for those that are strong of stomach is svi\u00f0<\/em>, or boiled sheep\u2019s head. It has its roots in the Viking age, when a \u201cwaste-not-want-not\u201d attitude was not only preferred, but vital. The sheep\u2019s head is cut in half, the brain removed, the fur singed off, then it\u2019s boiled until cooked. It\u2019s usually served with mashed potatoes and root veggies. If this doesn\u2019t take your fancy, you could try lamb, Icelanders\u2019 preferred meat, in the form of slow-cooked chops or in kj\u00f6ts\u00fapa, <\/em>a kind of chunky lamb soup.<\/p>\n Given Iceland is an island nation, seafood is prolific in the country\u2019s cuisine. One of the country\u2019s less daunting traditional dishes, plokkfiskur<\/em> is a creamy fish stew made with fresh, flaky white fish, potatoes and onions and a thick white sauce. It\u2019s usually served up with a hunk of Icelandic rye bread. Icelandic fish soup (fiskis\u00fapa<\/em>), made with the catch of the day, warming stock and finely chopped veggies is worth a try too.<\/p>\n Another centuries-old staple harking back to Icelanders\u2019 thrifty ancestors is har\u00f0fiskur<\/em>, or dried fish. Fish such as cod or haddock are gutted, hung out to dry, then pounded flat to make a snack often compared to jerky. It\u2019s still a popular bite here and can be picked up at grocery stores and markets across the country.<\/p>\n Last, but certainly not least is hr\u00fatspungar<\/em>, or ram\u2019s testicles. Traditionally served at the winter festival of \u00deorrabl\u00f3t, the testicles are usually pressed and cured with whey. This is another delicacy with mixed reviews.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n While Icelanders are faithful to the dishes of their forefathers, there are many less frightening foods that Icelanders enjoy on a more regular basis. We\u2019ve picked some tasty Icelandic eats you can\u2019t leave the island without trying.<\/p>\n Lauded by tourists and locals alike, B\u00e6jarins Beztu Pylsur is a humble hot dog stand that has enjoyed a string of celebrity punters since the company was established in 1937 (including former president Bill Clinton, who visited in 2004). Those prepared to wait in line will be rewarded with a lamb hot dog smothered in mustard, ketchup and sweet remoulade, topped with raw and crispy onions, and cased in a soft, white roll.<\/p>\n This thick, creamy Icelandic yoghurt has its roots in the Viking age in Iceland, and is even referenced in several Icelandic sagas. While Skyr is now available across the world, it remains integral to the Icelandic diet and it\u2019s well worth trying it in its country of origin. It\u2019s often eaten at breakfast, with berries or mixed into porridge. Versatile Skyr also doubles up as a dessert: eat it at Reykjav\u00edk\u2019s laid-back Kaffi Loki<\/a> with single cream and sugar or dolloped onto sweet pancakes with caramel sauce.<\/p>\n Dense and cake-like, Icelandic rye bread or r\u00fagbrau\u00f0<\/em><\/p>\n was traditionally baked in a pot underground, cooked by geothermal heat from bubbling geysers. It is still produced this way in Laugavatn, around 1-hour-15-minutes east of Reykjav\u00edk. You can visit the geothermal bakery at Laugavatn Fontana spa<\/a>, where you can watch and learn more about this process, and also sample some freshly baked bread served straight from the ground. If you want to sample some rye in Reykjav\u00edk, head to mural-covered Brau\u00f0 & Co<\/a> on Frakkastigur street.<\/p>\n Great seafood abounds in Iceland, and you can feast on cod, haddock, halibut, lobster, mackerel and more. But one of the most comforting seafood dishes here is the Icelandic take on the British staple of fish and chips. Fish encased in a light batter and served with baked wedges is served at Icelandic Fish and Chips<\/a> in Reykjav\u00edk.<\/p>\n But the unlikely purveyor of Iceland\u2019s best fish and chips is Papas’ Restaurant<\/a> in Grindavik, an hour from Reykjav\u00edk in the Reykjanes Peninsula. Their cod comes deep fried with fluffy chips, crisp lettuce and tartare sauce, and is accompanied on the menu by a long string of tasty pizzas. Iceland\u2019s first street-food hall, Grandi Math\u00f6ll<\/a>, also opened in Reykjav\u00edk in 2018, and Fusion Fish and Chips<\/a>, with their creative takes on this classic dish, have a home here.<\/p>\n Icelanders have a sweet tooth and their pastry offerings are second to none. During your trip, be sure to try a sn\u00fa\u00f0ur<\/em>, a type of sticky cinnamon roll, as well as a kleina<\/em>, a little like a knotted doughnut. Excellent versions of both can be found at time-honoured bakery Sandholt<\/a>, established in 1920.<\/p>\n Coffee<\/b><\/p>\n Coffee-lovers rejoice \u2013\u00a0Iceland is a nation serious about a good brew, and you won\u2019t find it hard to get a decent cup of coffee on the road. Reykjav\u00edk Roasters<\/a>, now with three locations in the city,\u00a0serves artisanal brews from beans they\u2019ve roasted themselves at their original site on K\u00e1rast\u00edgur. If you\u2019d prefer something with a touch of history, Mokka Kaffi<\/a> was opened in 1958 and was the first Icelandic caf\u00e9 to invest in an espresso machine. Creative types will love the regular art exhibitions here too.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Cheap food in Reykjav\u00edk can be hard to come by, but there are some restaurants in the capital that are easier on the pocket than others. These are our favourites:<\/p>\n Gl\u00f3<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n This healthy, cafeteria-style spot has taken Iceland by storm, now with four restaurants in the capital area and one in Copenhagen too. Gl\u00f3 prides itself on fast service, a vegan-friendly menu and affordable prices. Choose from the heap of healthy options on offer on your day of visiting \u2013 think bean burritos, chicken curries and mountains of colourful salad.<\/p>\n Icelandic Street Food<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n An easy-going, family-owned spot, Icelandic Street Food on L\u00e6kjargata is the place to go for traditional, homemade grub served fast. Delicacies include Icelandic pancakes, which you can enjoy for as little as 300 ISK (\u00a31.92\/$2.49) and traditional lamb or shellfish soup served in a hunk of bread.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Babal\u00fa<\/b><\/p>\n Quirky Caf\u00e9 Babalu is a top spot for light dishes such as veggie lasagne and a tidy offering of sweet treats (our favourite is the vegan carrot cake). A steaming plate of lasagne with garlic bread and salad will set you back 2,090 ISK (around \u00a313.40\/$17.37) or a cheese toastie is 990 ISK (about \u00a36.35\/$8.23). It\u2019s a cosy spot to break up a day\u2019s sightseeing.<\/p>\n Reykjav\u00edk Chips<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n If you\u2019re after a light lunch or a late-night snack, Reykjav\u00edk Chips does what it says on the tin. Predominantly a takeaway spot with a small corner for dining in, Reykjav\u00edk Chips dishes up Belgian-style chips with your choice of sauce (options range from garlic sauce to vegan satay sauce). Pair your chips with a bottle of Icelandic or Belgian beer for 1,490 ISK (\u00a39.56\/$12.38).<\/p>\n Noodle Station<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n A no-frills restaurant, now with two locations in Reykjav\u00edk and one in nearby Hafnarfj\u00f6r\u00f0ur, Noodle Station has just a handful of dishes on its menu. Choose spicy noodle soup with beef, chicken or vegetables \u2013\u00a0the veggie option costs 960 ISK (about \u00a36.15\/$7.98).<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Iceland is not known for its vegetarian food and the most traditional of Icelandic dishes are based on meat and seafood. When you\u2019re on the road, and outside of the capital region, it pays to be prepared in advance. If possible, cook some food in your accommodation and take it with you. If you\u2019ve not got the right facilities at your base, make sure you\u2019re stocked up with snacks just in case.<\/p>\n Having said this, in Reykjav\u00edk, you\u2019ll have little trouble finding a decent veggie meal, and there are even dedicated vegetarian spots popping up across the capital. There\u2019s Gl\u00f3 (see above), plus Kaffi V\u00ednyl<\/a>, an uber-cool plant-based caf\u00e9 and record shop with regular live music events. This spot offers regular specials, with highlights including tofu steak with tamarind glaze and tagliatelle with cashew-cream sauce.<\/p>\n Gar\u00f0urinn<\/a> restaurant is another great vegetarian spot. Its menu changes daily and is inspired by cuisines from all over the world. Example dishes include veg-filled North African couscous and Caribbean tomato soup.<\/p>\n Vegetarian restaurants are more limited outside of the capital, but you\u2019ll find a few spots in second-city Akureyri. Hostel Akureyri Backpackers<\/a> boasts a restaurant with a vegan-friendly menu. Try the Thai Vegan Burger with tomato curry sauce, avocado, salad and potato wedges.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You\u2019ve picked a season; your itinerary is fleshed out; and you\u2019ve got a little list of restaurants you won\u2019t leave without trying. But before you set off, here\u2019s a last few snippets of advice to take on the road with you.<\/p>\n We can\u2019t stress this enough. A hardy waterproof coat, waterproof trousers, proper boots for hiking and plenty of thermal layers are essential. If you have crampons, it\u2019s worth taking those too. Tour ops will usually provide more advanced gear for activities such as glacier hiking, but you may save on extra costs if you bring your own.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve said it once, and we\u2019ll say it again. Take enormous care when driving in Iceland in winter. Never (ever) leave marked roads, and check conditions before you set out.<\/p>\n You\u2019re playing with around 4 hours of daylight in the winter, so make it count. Save any hiking or sightseeing for the middle of the day and chase the aurora after sunset.<\/p>\n Despite all of the above, winter is a truly rewarding time to travel. Visitor numbers are at their highest in summer, and that also means that prices soar, accommodation books up more quickly and the most popular sites are thronged with eager fellow travellers. By visiting off-peak you\u2019ll also be helping to ease some of the stress placed on the country by ever-increasing tourist numbers in high season.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n We\u2019ve touched on this before. Plumping for self-catering accommodation, where you can prepare you own food for the road, will save you a lot of money. Also bear in mind that if you want to try a particular restaurant, it may well be cheaper to sample the lunch menu than to visit at dinner.<\/p>\n Iceland\u2019s tap water is not only safe, it\u2019s delicious. Save some money (and plastic) by carrying a reusable water bottle wherever you go and filling it up on your travels.<\/p>\n It\u2019s generally cheaper to book any tours, your accommodation and your car rental in advance. Organising this stuff from home also gives you a chance to thoroughly compare prices. Sites such as Guide to Iceland<\/a> allow you to compare a variety of deals. Also, be aware that, if you\u2019re travelling in peak season and you fail to make reservations early, that tour or hostel you had your heart set on may well be all booked up.<\/p>\n Travelling with friends will help bring down the cost of things like car hire, and it\u2019s always nice to have some company on the road. Just make sure you plan an itinerary to suit everyone\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n Depending on how much time you\u2019re planning to spend in the city, and the sights you want to see, this could prove economical or not. The Reykjav\u00edk City Card grants entry to numerous museums and attractions, from the Reykjav\u00edk Art Museum to a range of thermal pools. It also includes travel on city buses and a ferry to beautiful Videy Island. A 24-hour adult pass is 3,900 ISK (\u00a324.78\/$32.40).<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Did you know that beer was actually illegal in Iceland until 1989? The country has a long history of prohibition, and you can still only buy alcohol at state-run shops called V\u00ednb\u00fadin. There are also heavy taxes on alcohol products, so you\u2019ll save money if you lay off the booze during your trip. Alternatively, you could buy alcohol from the duty free shops at Keflav\u00edk International Airport.<\/p>\n Visitors are often surprised by the slightly eggy smell they\u2019re presented with when they run the hot tap at their accommodation. That odour is actually sulphur \u2013\u00a0Iceland\u2019s water comes from geothermal sources, and hydrogen sulphide is reportedly added to Iceland\u2019s water to rid it of oxygen before it\u2019s pumped into household pipes and radiators. You\u2019ll soon learn to ignore the smell, just like the locals do.<\/p>\n The natural world is of great importance to Icelanders. As with anywhere you travel, leave no trace: never drop litter, stay on marked trails, keep a good distance from wildlife and don\u2019t remove sand, stones or other natural materials from where they belong.<\/p>\n Icelanders are a friendly bunch who take great pride in their country. Ask locals you meet along the way for tips and you\u2019re sure to discover something unexpected, be it an underrated coffee shop or a secret geothermal pool perfect for a dip.<\/p>\nTemperatures in Iceland<\/h3>\n
Best time to see the Northern Lights<\/h3>\n
![\"Backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/@emanuele.semplici-Northern-lights-Gr\u00f3tta-Lighthouse-Seltjarnanes-Reykjavik.jpg\")
<\/p>\nGetting around Iceland<\/b><\/h2>\n
Best way to travel around Iceland<\/h3>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/jcstomper-the-sun-voyager.jpg\")
<\/p>\nIceland without a car<\/h3>\n
Bus travel around Iceland<\/h3>\n
Iceland Currency<\/b><\/h2>\n
Is Iceland expensive?<\/h3>\n
Where to stay in Iceland<\/h2>\n
The best hosyels in Reykjav\u00edk<\/h3>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Capture.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Capture-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\nThe best hostels in Iceland outside of Reykjav\u00edk<\/h3>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/jorgebfoto-Godafoss.jpg\")
<\/p>\nIceland itinerary<\/b><\/h2>\n
5-day itinerary: a hot-spots tour<\/h3>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/jklongcourt2708-Reykjav\u00edk.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/simon.prochaska-Strokkur.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/@beforeyoufindit-Blue-Lagoon.jpg\")
<\/p>\n7-day itinerary: a summer Highlands odyssey<\/h3>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/r3dmax-puffins-westmanislands-heimaey.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/dontwait_livenow-Landmannalaugar.jpg\")
<\/p>\n12\u201314-day itinerary: adventures on the Ring Road<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/dfesar-skogafoss.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/@emersonarchie-Reynisfjara.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/@lifewedaretolive-Myvatn-Nature-Baths.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/@emanuele.semplici-Husavik.jpg\")
<\/p>\n\n
Iceland Culture <\/b><\/h2>\n
Food in Iceland<\/b><\/h2>\n
5 traditional Icelandic dishes<\/h3>\n
H\u00e1karl<\/b><\/h4>\n
Svi\u00f0<\/b><\/h4>\n
Plokkfiskur<\/b><\/h4>\n
Har\u00f0fiskur<\/b><\/h4>\n
Hr\u00fatspungar<\/b><\/h4>\n
5 must-eat foods in Iceland \u2013\u00a0and where to try them<\/b><\/h3>\n
A hot dog from B\u00e6jarins Beztu Pylsur<\/a><\/b><\/h4>\n
Skyr<\/b><\/h4>\n
Icelandic rye bread<\/b><\/h4>\n
Fish and chips<\/b><\/h4>\n
Sweet pastries<\/b><\/h4>\n
The most affordable eats in Reykjav\u00edk: <\/b><\/h3>\n
Vegetarian food in Iceland: <\/b><\/h3>\n
Iceland Travel Tips<\/b><\/h2>\n
For travelling in Iceland in the winter:<\/b><\/h3>\n
Get the right gear<\/b><\/h4>\n
Safety first<\/b><\/h4>\n
Carefully plan your itinerary<\/b><\/h4>\n
Do it<\/b><\/h4>\n
For saving money in Iceland: <\/b><\/h3>\n
Opt for self-catered accommodation<\/b><\/h4>\n
Drink the tap water<\/b><\/h4>\n
Book things in advance<\/b><\/h4>\n
Travel in a larger group<\/b><\/h4>\n
Consider the <\/b>Reykjav\u00edk City Card<\/a><\/b><\/h4>\n
For everything else: <\/b><\/h3>\n
Limit your drinking<\/b><\/h4>\n
It\u2019s sulphur you can smell<\/b><\/h4>\n
Respect the environment<\/b><\/h4>\n
The locals always know best<\/b><\/h4>\n
Need more reasons to visit Iceland?\u00a0\ud83d\udc47<\/h4>\n