WHERE TO STAY:
As someone who is not at all a fan of the cold weather, Iceland is one of my absolute favorite countries. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I fell in love with this place, and am reminded why I love it so much every time that I return. Everything about this country looks and feels like a fantasyland- pictures will never be able to do it any justice! When visiting Iceland, we have always stayed in an Airbnb in the heart of Reykjavik. We enjoy being within close walking distance to the many restaurants and bars within the city while also still having the option to rent a car and explore for a day or two if we want. If you are coming to Iceland strictly for the nature and scenery, staying outside of the city might be the best option for you. Although, you will miss out on some of the best food within Reykjavik (which in my opinion, is definitely not something you want to miss out on)!
WHAT TO SEE AND DO:
1. Visit the Blue Lagoon (this is something we recommend you do either on your way into the city from the airport or during your travels back to the airport at the end of your trip as it is in between the airport and Reykjavik).
2. Rent a car and drive down the southern coast of Iceland (the scenery is absolutely breathtaking and there is so much to see. Our favorite spot is a hidden waterfall called Gljufrabui located next to the very famously known waterfall, Seljalandstoss. It can be tricky to find but I have directions below on how to locate it.
Seljalandsfoss is beautiful – take a minute to follow the ledge around behind the falls. When you’re done and you turn around to face the falls again, make a left down the path along the foot of the mountain, away from the parking lot. Keep going until you get to a little creek, and then follow the creek into a little cave on your right. Wear hiking boots that will keep your feet dry in a couple of inches of water. Walk all the way into the cave. Just do it and thank me later 🙂
3. Visit Reynisfjara Beach
4. Go for a swim in Iceland’s oldest outdoor swimming pool, Seljavallalaug
5. Take in the spectacular views of the famed Gullfoss waterfall
6. Book a helicopter tour (this is by far one of the coolest things I have ever done. It can be pricey- but the experience is worth every penny. We used Helo helicopter services for our tour and had an amazing time!)
7. See the amazing Northern Lights (best time of the year to do this is late August to mid April. You will want to drive away from the city to some place dark. There are many places to stop and park while you wait for them to appear).
WHERE TO EAT:
The food is Iceland is absolutely incredible- I have never had a bad meal. I have some of our favorites below.
1. The Laundromat Cafe (great for brunch)
2. Fish Company (hands down the best meal we have had in Iceland)
3. Sjavargrillid
4. Fiskmarkadurinn
5. Messinn
6. Baejarins Beztu Pyslur (outdoor hot dog stand- an absolute must!)
WHERE TO DRINK:
1. Jacobsen Loftid
2. Kaffibarinn (late night bar with DJ’s and funky vibes)
3. Vedur
Passage Seventeen. 