What to see, what to do Iceland?
The 10 good reasons to go Iceland
There is something for everyone
You can go hiking or soak in a hot bath - it's a country for everyone!
The feeling of freedom
Despite tourism, it's still possible to feel almost alone in the world here.
Fauna and flora
Puffins, foxes, whales... on land and on the water, you'll come across many animals.
A change of scenery within flying distance
Iceland, it's a 3h30 flight, and little time difference. Accessible and practical!
The Northern Lights
Who doesn't dream of seeing the northern lights? In Iceland, the dream is within your reach.
A land of ice and fire
Glaciers, lava fields, mountains, lakes... there are plenty of landscapes to admire.
Scandinavian architecture
Wood and colors! Walking in Iceland is a real delight for the eyes.
Hot baths
If you're a spa enthusiast, there are a number of free hot tubs in the country.
The beauty of the midnight sun
For most of the summer, the sun never sets. Unique to see, and fascinating.
Atypical gastronomy
Fancy a taste of the unusual? Pheasant shark, lamb's head... you're in for a treat!
What to visit Iceland?
Interview: My Iceland
By Laurianne Miot, author of the guide
Passionate about writing, Laurianne Miot has written several Petit Futé for Lille and the Hauts-de-France region where she is originally from. In love with Iceland, she likes to share her love of the country and its culture. Also travel blogger on the blog "Un pied dans les nuages", she likes to reveal her advices to not miss anything of the must-sees, while discovering local treasures.
See the video of the interviewGood to know to visit Iceland
Timetable
Generally speaking, schedules for activities and transport vary between high and low season. For example, the ferry to Viðey operates every day in summer, whereas it only runs at weekends in winter. Make sure you have the right timetable!
Museums and activities open late and close relatively early in Iceland, often from 10am to 5pm. There are exceptions, however, such as Perlan, which opens until 10pm. This limitation does not apply to natural sites, most of which are accessible day and night.
Similarly, opening times change frequently, and those shown in this guide are subject to change. We advise you to call or visit the websites of the establishments you "absolutely must" try out before going there. Don't hesitate to make reservations whenever possible.
To be booked
If you'd like to enjoy the Blue Lagoon and some of the thermal baths, you'll need to book your time slot in advance. Always check before you come and book as early as possible.
Most of the museums and sites we visit haveno gauge, so there's no need to book in advance. Similarly, you can easily book an excursion the day before for the next day, or even for the same day (e.g. Northern Lights hunt).
Budget & Tips
Many museums offer "several museums in one"passes , so you can pay less for your visits and discover a wider choice. Check out the museum or tourist office websites.
The Reykjavik City Card is the ideal wayto enjoy the capital ! By paying for 24h, 48h or 72h (from €27 to €45), you can take advantage of numerous benefits: free transport, museums and swimming pools in the capital, and reduced-rate activities.
Main events
Throughout the year, there are numerous cultural events of all kinds. February sees the Winter Lights Festival, accompanied by Museum Night and Pool Night. In November, the Iceland Airwaves festival takes place in the capital, featuring local and international stars.
The holiday season can be particularly enjoyable. During December, there are several Christmas markets in the capital and elsewhere. New Year's Eve is quite unique, with many private individuals setting off fireworks in the capital.
Tourist traps
There are no tourist attractions to speak of in Iceland, even in the capital. It's worth bearing in mind, however, that tourism is having an ever-increasing impact, and some prices can be exaggerated.
