IcelandIceland
natureadventurephotographyroad-tripromantic
A volcanic island of glaciers, geysers, black sand beaches, and the Northern Lights. Iceland's Ring Road is one of the world's greatest road trips, passing waterfalls, ice caves, and geothermal hot springs.
Best Time to Visit
June to August (midnight sun), September to March (Northern Lights)
Daily Budget
$150-300/day
luxury tier
Weather
Subarctic maritime. Cool summers (10-15°C) with 24-hour daylight. Cold windy winters (-5 to 3°C). Rain and wind year-round.
Top Things to Do in Iceland
- Northern Lights — dancing green auroras from September to March
- Golden Circle — Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir tectonic rift
- Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon — icebergs floating to the black sand Diamond Beach
- Blue Lagoon — milky-blue geothermal spa near Reykjavik
- Ring Road — 1,322km circuit of the entire island
Travel Tips
- 1.Rent a 4WD if visiting the highlands or driving in winter
- 2.Food is very expensive — bring snacks and cook at hostels to save
- 3.Weather changes every 15 minutes — layer up and always carry waterproofs