There’s something pretty special about stepping outside, looking up, and finding the sky glow in colors before you’ve even finished your tea. We’ve compared the best hotels in Iceland to see the Northern Lights, so you can maximize your chances of experiencing this cosmic light show.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland from a geothermal hot spring is one of winter’s purest thrills. Warm water, crisp air, and the aurora dancing overhead.

Unique experiences in Iceland are the places most itineraries leave out, usually because reaching them takes a gravel or mountain road, a summer-only season, or a boat.

You can see the Northern Lights in Iceland from September to April on dark, clear nights with enough solar activity. Iceland spans roughly 63°N to 66.5°N, within the auroral zone, where you can see auroras on more than half the nights each year. Dark countryside is a short drive from Reykjavík, making Iceland one of the easiest places to plan an aurora trip.

The total solar eclipse in Iceland took place on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, in the late afternoon. The path of totality crossed western Iceland: the Westfjords, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Reykjavík, and the Reykjanes Peninsula, where the moon fully covered the sun for about 1 to 2 minutes.

Iceland has a rich and varied history on both the big and small screen. Many famous films and series have been shot on this mystical island, even when the story is set elsewhere.

Diamond Beach rewards photographers who plan around the light and the tide. Shoot at golden hour, get low to the ice, and keep a safe distance from the waves.

The 10 best Landmannalaugar hikes range from one-hour walks across the lava fields to full-day mountain ascents with over 700 m (2,300 ft) of elevation gain. Trails are generally open from June through September, and which one to pick comes down to how many hours you have and how much climb you want.

Most visitors spend 2 to 4 hours at the Blue Lagoon, the geothermal spa on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland. The exact length depends on which package you book, how busy the lagoon is, and whether you add masks, drinks, or spa treatments.

Plan a one-day North Iceland itinerary from Akureyri east to Lake Mývatn for a scenic day in the north without committing to a multi-day circuit. The trip covers whale watching, a scenic drive, Goðafoss waterfall, the main Lake Mývatn attractions, local lunch, and an optional geothermal bath.

Did you know that Iceland is the unofficial waterfall capital of the world? There are so many that some smaller ones don’t even have official names. Here are the 20 best (and most accessible) waterfalls you can include in your itinerary.

Standout architecture, local bites, quiet corners, and colorful streets. This Reykjavik walk fits more into one day than you’d expect.

Route 1 circles Iceland like a thread through a dream—unchanging in shape, but endlessly varied in experience. Some speed through in a day; others linger, drawn to every glacier, fjord, and thundering fall. But what time is the most optimal for a typical traveler in Iceland?

Watching the aurora ripple over Iceland’s wild landscapes is a true bucket-list moment—if you time it right and find dark skies.

Iceland is the puffin watching capital of the world. Bird watchers and scientists from around the globe come to Iceland to observe this fascinating species firsthand. Thanks to their incredibly cute and funny appearance, puffin watching has become one of the top favorite summer activities for visitors and locals alike! Learn more about the puffins in Iceland, including when to see them and how to find them.

Iceland features numerous ice caves, including the Crystal Cave in Vatnajökull Glacier and the world’s largest ice tunnel in Langjökull. With new frozen chambers forming every year, choosing your favorite can be challenging! This guide highlights the best ice caves in Iceland and the tours available to explore them.

As excitement builds for the 2026 total solar eclipse in Iceland, we reached out to Sævar Helgi Bragason, or Stjörnu Sævar, for his insights. He’s a famous Icelandic science educator and communicator with years of experience in astronomy. Sævar is an author of science books and a well-known voice on radio and TV.

Iceland Golden Circle Itinerary is among the top online searches related to this country. Why? Because the Golden Circle Route is probably the best way to spend a day in the land of glaciers and volcanoes! From thundering waterfalls to erupting geysers, this drive has so many places to visit. Travel on an incredible journey to discover the Golden Circle in one day and experience adventure at its best on the most famous Iceland road trip.

The Westman Islands, Iceland's south coast pearl, is rather underrated by tourists. Small enough to be explored in a day, it’s much more beautiful than you think. Join us as we take an in-depth look at this pearl of an island.

The Icelandic coastline offers its visitors a whole bouquet of stunning and diverse landscapes. From famous black sand beaches to romantic golden shores, discover your favorite or embark on a journey to explore them all!

Heading to Iceland this year? Lakes are a great place to visit here, providing a home for an abundance of wildlife or creating simply stunning landscapes.

Wandering around Christmas markets is a great way to get into the festive mood. Here are the best markets that Iceland has to offer.

Diving head first into the North Atlantic Sea or a chilly glacial lake may not be in everyone's interest. But those who brave Icelandic waters are well rewarded with crystal-clear visibility, stunning submerged rock sculptures, and sea life that is far from what is experienced by the typical diver.

Living in the waters surrounding the land of fire and ice are some of nature's most enchanting creatures – dolphins. These charismatic marine mammals grace Iceland's seas with their presence, turning the vast ocean into their very own aquatic playground.

Ever Wondered How Northern Lights Get Their Colors? Discover the Northern Lights' mesmerizing world and discover the secrets behind their captivating colors. From dazzling green and pale yellow to elusive red and ethereal purple, this article uncovers the science and magic behind each hue of Auroras!

Want to learn more about the second largest mammal on Earth? Find out about these majestic and elusive whales and how to see them in Iceland.

Iceland's coastal waters are home to a remarkable variety of marine life, and among the captivating creatures found here are the long-finned pilot whales.

The shores of Iceland are a hive of marine activity, from playful humpback whales propelling themselves above the surface to isolated blue whales navigating the deep waters.

Get ready to discover Iceland's Golden Circle like never before! You won't want to miss these hidden gems on the Golden Circle and detours that are just waiting to be explored. These lesser-known attractions are easily accessible along the popular driving route, so start reading and get ready to be amazed!

With every bend and turn, Iceland's rivers reveal breathtaking surprises. This island really is the land of water - from the majestic whale-abundant seas to vast frozen glaciers and serene hot springs, water in all forms has shaped Iceland and draws interest from across the world.

Iceland’s South Coast is home to a natural phenomenon that has captivated visitors from across the globe. Many of the beaches in this region catch visitors by surprise, thanks to the shade of the sand found there.

Are you ready for an extraordinary adventure in Iceland? Well, you're in luck! June in Iceland is a magical time filled with enchanting celebrations. Let's dive into the whimsical world of Summer Solstice and Jonsmessa, the Icelandic Midsummer!

Iceland is a wonderland of incredible landscapes and captivating wildlife. The most magnificent creatures that grace its coastal waters are the majestic whales. To maximize your chances of spotting these gentle giants, find out about the best time of day and year to embark on your whale watching adventure.

Are you determined to see an Arctic fox on your visit to Iceland? Find out more about these adorable mammals and how to see them on your travels.

Hoping to catch a glimpse of the biggest animal on Earth? Sightings of blue whales in Iceland are rare, but this information can help increase your chances.

Iceland is a true paradise for whale lovers. With over 20 species living in the waters around the country, it's no wonder seeing a whale is at the top of many visitors' bucket lists. Among the most popular are orcas, or killer whales. Although these animals aren't whales, they are often referred to as killer whales because of their impressive hunting skills. This has made seeing orcas in Iceland a highly sought-after activity.

Hoping to see a humpback whale in Iceland? We’ve compiled everything you’ll need to know so you can maximize your chances. Find out more.

Iceland is known to be a shooting spot for famous movies, but this beautiful country has also been featured in popular music videos. Some of them, like Justin Bieber's video, became so popular that places in Iceland are nicknamed after them even today (yes, I'm talking about Fjaðrárgljúfur, also known as 'Bieber's Canyon'). So, what famous music videos were shot in Iceland? Some of these might really surprise you!

Iceland is an incredible place for stunning photography. Find our top 10 recommended spots in the country for Iceland photography opportunities.

Did you know that the whooper swan is the only swan species in Iceland? Read our blog to discover more about the unique birds of Iceland.

Curious about which plants you’ll spot when travelling in Iceland? Explore Icelandic flora with us, including some of the most common flowers in Iceland.

Finding a new ice cave is never easy. This mission starts around the first two weeks of September, after a storm and, possibly, a glacier flood, the elements needed to carve a new ice cave. We never know what to expect, as the structure is different every year and the very nature of the cave varies significantly depending on how it formed.

Meradalir volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula about 17 miles southwest of Reykjavik erupted a little over a week ago after several weeks of multiple earthquakes. We invite you to relive that epic day through the eyes of an Arctic Adventures guide, Nick Reeves, who made the difficult hike to the eruption site just hours after the firsts outbursts of lava grabbed the Icelandic—and global—headlines.

We have put together the best 7-day itinerary of the Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes, and Reykjavik. This is your opportunity to explore the best of the west and south.

Heimaey Island is the main spot to see when visiting Vestmannaeyjar, or the Westman Islands. The Westman Islands are an archipelago of 15 islands and some rock stacks that were formed approximately 11,000 years ago.

Nauthúsagil, Iceland is just waiting to be explored. Walk along a hidden narrow canyon until you end up at an amazing waterfall that is almost roaring directly on top of you. This is the place to explore for travelers who want to get off the beaten path.

Located on the largest glacier in Iceland is Vatnajökull Ice Cave, one of the many natural wonders that the island has to offer. Discover everything you need to know about this hidden gem before stepping inside for an icy adventure.

Enchanted attractions for Frozen 2 fans to explore on their next adventure!

Looking for new holiday adventures? Forget overcrowded cities with thick smog and long lines to the Eiffel Tower or Big Ben. Step off the touristy tracks and enjoy the old-world charm of Iceland’s small towns.

What is the most beautiful church in Reykjavík? To answer this question, here is a list of the top 10 most beautiful churches in the capital of Iceland!

Iceland is a true waterfall paradise, everywhere you look, it seems, water is drizzling down in the most gorgeous streams you will want to stop and admire them for hours.

Winter is here and so is Game of Thrones Season 7 in a couple of weeks. Here you will find a list of filming locations in Iceland.