Iceland is a bucket-list destination for many travelers, with an array of stunning natural attractions from waterfalls to lava fields and incredible wildlife. Having an attractions map of Iceland on hand will make the planning process for your trip to Iceland easy while also giving you ideas for places to visit and which areas you want to concentrate on.
Top Iceland Attractions to Visit by Car
Iceland is a destination that’s meant to be traveled by car. Public transportation is slow in the country and doesn’t reach some of the best sites. These are some of the top attractions that you can’t miss when renting your own car in Iceland.
Golden Circle: A Trio of Iconic Sites (and More!)
The Golden Circle might be the most popular road trip in Iceland. Located less than an hour from the capital, Reykjavik, the Golden Circle is a 190 mile loop of famous sites, including walking between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss are the most famous sites along the road and you can easily see them all in one day.
Thingvellir National Park
Þingvellir was once the seat of the Icelandic government and where Vikings held the General Assembly in 930 AD. This also happens to be the exact location where the tectonic plates are pulling apart, a portion of this UNESCO World Heritage site that you can walk and even snorkel or scuba dive through.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Geysir is the very water spout that gave the rest of the world’s geothermal geysers their name. This powerful force of nature can shoot up to 230 feet in the air. You’ll also have the chance to see Blesi, another nearby geyser.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss is another big draw to the Ring Road. About 105 feet tall, this powerful waterfall is a sight to behold whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, when the waterfall can partially freeze. Don’t forget to pop into the Gullfoss Cafe for a bowl of traditional lamb stew.
Detour Attractions Along the Golden Circle Route
While the Golden Circle’s main stops (Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss) are breathtaking, adding a few detours can make your trip even more memorable. Here are some of the best stops to consider:
- Kerið Crater: A striking volcanic crater filled with vibrant turquoise water. Its vivid red volcanic rocks contrast beautifully with the blue water, creating an Instagram-worthy scene. A short walk around the crater rim offers spectacular views.
- Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin): A natural hot spring located in Flúðir. This less-crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon provides a relaxing soak surrounded by Icelandic nature. Steam rising from the pool adds to the tranquil atmosphere.
- Faxi Waterfall (Faxafoss): A smaller but equally charming waterfall located close to Gullfoss. It’s perfect for a quick stop to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and snap some photos.
- Friðheimar Greenhouse: A unique restaurant and greenhouse specializing in fresh tomatoes. Visitors can enjoy a delicious meal, including their famous tomato soup, surrounded by thriving tomato plants.
- Brúarhlöð Canyon: Just off the Golden Circle route near Gullfoss, this hidden gem features striking rock formations carved by the Hvítá River. The canyon is a peaceful spot for a scenic walk.
- Hvítárnes Viewpoint: A serene location offering panoramic views of the Hvítá River and surrounding landscapes. It’s a great spot for a picnic or to stretch your legs while enjoying the scenery.
- Skálholt Cathedral: One of Iceland’s most historically significant sites, this cathedral was once a center of culture and religion. The church’s modern design complements its rich history.
- Laugarvatn Fontana Spa: Located near Þingvellir, this geothermal spa offers relaxing hot pools and a unique geothermal bakery experience. Visitors can taste rye bread baked in the hot sand nearby.
- Hrunalaug Hot Spring: A small, natural hot spring perfect for a peaceful soak. This hidden gem is tucked away in the countryside, offering a more intimate experience.
South Coast : full with waterfalls, glaciers and black sand beaches!
Another very popular road trip in Iceland is visiting the South Coast. It takes about 5 hours to reach the Jökulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, one of the last attractions on the southern stretch of the Ring Road. That means you’ll likely want to spend the night somewhere along the way. The towns of Vik and Hofn both make for great stopping points!
The South Coast of Iceland is packed with breathtaking attractions beyond Seljalandsfoss, Reynisfjara, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here are more must-visit stops to include on your itinerary:
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Seljalandsfoss is only about two hours from Reykjavik and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. At 197 feet tall, you can see the waterfall from the Ring Road. You’ll definitely want to pull into the parking lot for an up close view as this is one of the only waterfalls in the world that you can actually walk behind!
Skógafoss Waterfall
One of Iceland’s largest and most famous waterfalls, Skógafoss cascades 60 meters in a powerful sheet. Visitors can climb the staircase next to the falls for a panoramic view or explore the legend of hidden treasure beneath its waters.
Vík í Mýrdal
The southernmost village in Iceland, Vík is famous for its picturesque setting near Reynisfjara beach. Don’t miss the iconic Vík Church perched on a hill, offering sweeping views of the coastline.
Dyrhólaey Peninsula
A small promontory known for its dramatic views, sea cliffs, and the famous arch-shaped rock formation. It’s also a great spot for puffin watching during the summer months.
Sólheimajökull Glacier
This glacier is an accessible spot for guided glacier walks and ice climbing tours. Its rugged beauty is a stark reminder of climate change, as the glacier has been receding in recent years.
Reynisfjara black sand beach
You’ll also find several black sand beaches along Iceland’s coast, including the famous Reynisfjara. Be warned. While extremely beautiful, these beaches can be deadly due to “sneaker waves”, which are known to drown unsuspecting visitors.
Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks
Located near Reynisfjara beach, these towering basalt sea stacks are steeped in folklore, said to be trolls turned to stone by the sunlight.
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
The fourth-largest glacier in Iceland and home to the infamous Katla volcano. Visitors can book snowmobile or glacier tours for an unforgettable adventure on the ice.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
A majestic, 2-kilometer-long canyon with moss-covered cliffs carved by a glacial river. This hidden gem offers several viewpoints and hiking trails.
Eldhraun Lava Field
One of the largest lava fields in the world, this moss-covered expanse was created by the catastrophic Laki eruption in 1783. It’s an otherworldly landscape perfect for photography.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
A quaint village with historical and natural highlights like the Church Floor (Kirkjugólfið), a natural basalt formation resembling a tiled floor.
Vatnajökull Glacier
Europe’s largest glacier dominates the region and is a gateway to thrilling activities such as ice cave tours, glacier hikes, and snowmobiling.
Hofskirkja Turf Church
A charming, grass-roofed church that showcases Iceland’s traditional architecture and blends harmoniously into its natural surroundings.
Jokulsarlon glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach is another popular black sand beach, known for its glittering chunks of ice that wash ashore from the nearby Jökulsarlon Lagoon — another must-see sight! Visitors can take boat and kayak tours of the lagoon in the warmer months and ice cave tours in the winter.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve
Part of Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise, with trails leading to stunning attractions like Svartifoss (Black Waterfall), known for its basalt column backdrop. The area is also home to Skaftafellsjökull glacier.
Ring Road: the key attractions around the country!
While the Golden Circle might be the most popular road trip, the Ring Road is Iceland’s most famous! Over 800 miles in length, the Ring Road circumnavigates Iceland, traveling all the way around the island.
You can technically drive the Ring Road in just 24 hours, but that’s without stopping and what’s the point in that? You’ll want to plan for at least 7 days to see the beauty of Iceland along the way!
Plan to see the sights previously mentioned and tack on a few other favorites too. Some of the highlights include the country’s second largest town, Akureyri, the whale-watching hotspot of Husavik, the artsy fishing village of Seyðisfjordur, and Lake Myvatn. Here’s a breakdown of what to explore by area:
South Iceland
We’ve already gone into detail about South Iceland, but just to recap—it’s packed with must-see spots like Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Skaftafell. These are some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, so be sure to check them out! You’ll find all the info you need in the South Iceland section above.
East Iceland
The East is a region of remote beauty, with dramatic fjords and charming fishing villages.
- Seyðisfjörður: A picturesque fjord town known for its colorful houses, annual art festival, and Rainbow Street leading to the iconic Blue Church. A must-stop for culture lovers.
- Vestrahorn Mountain: A stunning, jagged peak often called the “Batman Mountain.” It’s a favorite spot for photographers, especially during sunrise or sunset.
- Borgarfjörður Eystri: Known as the puffin capital of Iceland, this small village offers excellent birdwatching opportunities in summer and is a hiker’s paradise with scenic trails.
- Djúpivogur: A quaint town famous for its Eggin í Gleðivík (Eggs of Merry Bay) outdoor art installation featuring large, egg-shaped sculptures.
- Hengifoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, surrounded by unique basalt columns and layers of red clay. The hike to the falls is rewarding with stunning views.
- East Fjords: A collection of dramatic fjords dotted with quiet fishing villages, each offering unique charm, local seafood, and incredible hiking opportunities.
North Iceland
The North is rich in natural wonders, from geothermal marvels to thriving wildlife.
- Akureyri: Iceland’s second-largest town, known for its lively arts scene, excellent museums like the Akureyri Museum, and the relaxing Forest Lagoon. A perfect year-round destination.
- Húsavík: The whale-watching capital of Iceland. During summer, join a boat tour to spot humpback and blue whales, and visit the Húsavík Whale Museum for fascinating insights.
- Lake Mývatn: A geothermal paradise with diverse birdlife, unique lava formations, and the soothing Mývatn Nature Baths, often called the “Blue Lagoon of the North.”
- Goðafoss Waterfall: Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” this stunning cascade is steeped in Icelandic history and offers beautiful viewpoints.
- Ásbyrgi Canyon: A horseshoe-shaped canyon said to be formed by Odin’s horse’s hoof. It’s a peaceful place for hiking and soaking in Iceland’s dramatic nature.
- Grímsey Island: A small island on the Arctic Circle, perfect for birdwatching and experiencing the midnight sun in summer.
West Iceland
West Iceland is a blend of history, natural beauty, and mysterious volcanic landscapes.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Often called “Iceland in Miniature,” this area has it all: glaciers, lava fields, black sand beaches, and the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain.
- Stykkishólmur: A charming coastal town with colorful houses and a picturesque harbor, ideal for exploring the Breiðafjörður Bay’s countless islands.
- Lóndrangar: Two massive basalt rock formations standing tall on the coastline, often referred to as “the trolls of Snæfellsnes.”
- Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls: Unique waterfalls where water streams through lava fields into a turquoise river. The area offers beautiful walking trails.
- Deildartunguhver: Europe’s most powerful hot spring, which supplies hot water to nearby towns. Visitors can enjoy the Krauma spa nearby, fed directly by the spring’s geothermal water.
- Reykholt: A historic village once home to the famous medieval writer Snorri Sturluson. Visit the Snorrastofa museum and the nearby hot spring.
Iceland by Season: The Best Time to Visit
Despite its icy winters, Iceland is a destination that can be visited at any time of year. Here are a few things to know about each season…
Summer (June to August): Long daylight hours for more sightseeing (otherwise known as the midnight sun!) and warmer weather. it is also the best time for exploring Iceland’s highlands and F-roads
Winter (November to February): The colder months bring magical northern lights, ice cave tours, and partially frozen waterfalls. However, driving can be challenging due to icy roads—ensure you rent a 4×4 vehicle.
Spring & Autumn (May and September-October):Shoulder seasons are quieter, offering a mix of winter and summer activities. Expect fewer crowds and slightly lower prices.
- Read more about: What is the weather in Iceland?
How to Make the Most of Driving in Iceland
Driving in Iceland is fairly easy, depending on what season you’ll be visiting. Most roads are paved and have clear signage, but some are gravel or dirt and require 4-wheel drive.
A few of the most popular routes that you’ll want to look into include the Ring Road, Westfjords, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
In terms of weather, you’ll find a mixed bag of road conditions depending on the time of year. Visitors will want to have experience driving in snow and ice in the winter months and rent a 4×4 vehicle from December to March. You can get by with renting a standard vehicle in the summer or, if you want to go a bit off-the-beaten-path, rent a 4×4 and drive the F-roads, which lead to Iceland’s interior.
Always check road conditions before heading out on the road in Iceland. You can do that by looking on Iceland’s official road website road.is .
Plan Your Self-Drive Trip with Firefly Iceland
Firefly Iceland Car Rentals is one of the best options if you’re looking for an inexpensive car rental. With affordable pricing, an extensive fleet for all road types, and helpful tips from our staff, you’ll be ready to safely hit the road with your Iceland attractions map in tow.
Conclusion
Using this handy dandy map, you’ll be able to plan the perfect road trip around Iceland! Book your rental car today through Firefly Iceland Car Rentals as the first step in preparing for your epic adventures in the Land of Fire and Ice.
