You will journey along the southern edge of the Arctic Circle, passing it momentarily as you navigate the northern reaches of Iceland. You will step foot in quaint hamlets tracing back to the 8th century, listen to the sagas of the original Viking pioneers, and marvel at the natural spectacles found in each port. All the while keeping watch for humpback whales and Atlantic puffins.
Upon landing, you will have opportunities to encounter the Icelandic steeds, embark on hikes to cascades, relax in hot springs, savor a gastronomic escapade, witness black sand shores, meander across the Berserkjahraun lava expanse, and observe wildlife.
This is an exploration itinerary that will captivate nature enthusiasts, history aficionados, and those who revel in feeling minute amidst the grandeur of natural marvels. Here are some key highlights.
Reykjavik
Commence your Icelandic journey in the capital city of Reykjavik. Established in 871 AD by a duo of Viking pioneers, Ingolfur Arnason and Halleveig Frodadottir, who named it the ‘Smoky Bay’ due to the volcanic fissures creating a smoky illusion above the waters. A city that originated as a rugged Viking settlement, Reykjavik has surged into the 21st century with its complete embrace of geothermal power. It is now recognized as the “Smokeless City.”
Despite being the most petite capital city globally, the city consists of six expansive districts, each boasting an array of attractions and points of interest.
From the port, the city center is a mere 10-minute stroll away, featuring captivating sites such as Old Reykjavik, the Viking Saga Museum, the Maritime Museum, The Harpa, Iceland’s premier concert venue, the National Museum of Reykjavik, and Whales of Iceland. There are also parks for leisure, coastal promenades for leisurely strolls, and several boutiques vending exquisite Icelandic sweaters (which may be necessary, even during summer, as nights tend to be brisk). And don’t overlook Reykjavik’s abundant bookshops; the city is a UNESCO City of Literature. Most of them also offer literature in the English language alongside Icelandic. A personal favorite is Penninn Eymundsson, a national chain, whose store on Austurstraeti 18, downtown, features a rooftop café and English publications imported from the UK, providing a distinct selection from what is available in the US.
Reykjavik isn’t the sole town in Iceland boasting Michelin-acclaimed eateries, but it does possess its fair share, including Matur og Drykkur for authentic Icelandic fare. A personal favorite is a bistro in the historic quarter known as Apotek. While not quite attaining Michelin status, it offers delectable cuisine, a trendy ambiance, and is consistently frequented by locals. Be sure to make a reservation….
You will encounter distinctive local delicacies such as fermented shark, fish soup, Icelandic breads, and a regional spirit called Brennivin.
Heimaey Island
Situated just a few miles off the southern coast of Iceland, Heimaey feels like a bygone realm stranded in the icy waters of the North Atlantic. The volcanoes that sculpted Heimaey Island have almost obliterated it on multiple occasions. The most renowned eruption in recent history occurred in January 1973, triggered by a crevice that opened up, birthing Eldfell. This incident resulted in the immediate evacuation of the island.
Heimaey Island is celebrated for its theatrical terrains, thus you should partake in one of the island tours that will bring you up close to the lava streams of the Eldfell Volcano, visit a puffin observation area, and also showcase a traditional Icelandic earthen hut.
The port is a brief 10-minute walk from the town center, where you will discover attractions like The Aquarium & Museum of Natural History, and the Sagnheimar Folk Museum. Additionally, there are numerous shops, cafes, and local eateries to relish. Within walking distance lies the lovely black Heimaey stave church, Stafkirkjan. While traversing there, take pleasure in the petite lava field trails.
Seydisfjordur
This picturesque fjord extends for 11 miles amidst striking volcanic vistas before culminating at what has been hailed the most scenic town in Iceland, Seydisfjordur. Offering an awe-inspiring natural milieu to visitors, the town also serves as a haven for a flourishing artistic community and some of the warmest individuals globally.
Seydisfjordur commenced as a trading post for overseas merchants in 1848 but burgeoned in prosperity due to its abundant herring stocks. It evolved into the largest and wealthiest town in East Iceland. The original settlements and graves date back to the 8th century, indicating that the foreign traders were not the first to capitalize on the fjord’s riches. The town is quaint and compact, housing a handful of boutiques, artisanal craft shops (featuring exquisite Icelandic woolens), pubs, and cafes. Don’t forget to drop by its supermarket; I have stumbled upon delightful culinary discoveries that make splendid souvenirs back home.
The town is an excellent base for nature enthusiasts, offering several designated hiking trails that unveil waterfalls and scenic outlooks. The port is merely a 10-minute walk from the village, where you can wander the streets and admire the vibrant structures, painted pathways, and the renowned Blue Church with the rainbow street.
Furthermore, you will discover numerous options for day trips to explore the highlights of East Iceland. These encompass immersing in Eider Ducks, Skalanes Nature Reserve, trekking to Hengifoss, alongside a few other excursion alternatives. One of my cherished escapades was a visit to Vok Baths, a floating thermal pool complex located on the cusp of a lake. Prebooking a car (or arranging roundtrip transportation) is necessary, as it entails a picturesque, 45-minute drive from town.
Akureyri
Being the second largest urban area in Iceland, Akureyri is known as the ‘Capital of the North’. It is a lively center for art and culture, situated at the head of the Eyjafjordur, which measures just over 37 miles in length and ranks as one of the longest fjords in the country. Akureyri is also a mere 62 miles away from the Arctic Circle, making it a primary hub for exploration in North Iceland.
There are numerous opportunities for adventures, tours, and activities during your visit. These include observing humpback whales up close during a whale watching excursion in the self-proclaimed whale capital of Iceland.
Further activities include meeting Icelandic horses for a countryside ride, visiting Myvatn Nature Baths, taking a scenic flight over the Diamond Circle, and exploring the best sights in the area, known as the Jewels of the North.
Alternatively, you can spend time exploring the city itself. Notable attractions in Akureyri include the Listagil (art canyon) with its art galleries, the beautiful town church, the botanical garden, and the main shopping street, Hafnarstraeti.
Isafjordur
Situated at the end of the Skutulsfjordur, Isafjordur is the largest town in the Westfjords Peninsula with around 2,600 residents. The town was established as a settlement in the 9th century and by the 19th century had a thriving saltfish industry that boosted its growth. Today, tourism is flourishing in Isafjordur, making it a key destination for cruise ships visiting Iceland. It also serves as a base for exploring the Westfjords region.
Excursions offer visits to places like the village of Hesteyri, the Osvor Museum, Dynjandi Waterfall, kayaking on the fjord, Sudavik village, the Arctic Fox Centre, Bolafjall Mountain, ATV tours along the fjords edge, and RIB boat tours for whale watching.
Grundarfjordur
Located near the midpoint of the northern coast of the Snaefellsness Peninsula, Grundarfjordur is a growing community characterized by its unique climate and scenic location. The town acts as a hub for exploring the Beserkjahraun lava field and Snaefellsjokull, the famous mountain associated with Jules Verne.
Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss are renowned attractions in the region. Kirkjufell is a striking mountain that has gained popularity on various social media platforms. A guided hike to the base of Kirkjufell showcases the waterfalls, but for a more extensive exploration, a guide is recommended.
Excursions offer deeper experiences such as cave exploration on the Snaefellsjokull Glacier, hiking in the Beserkjahraun lava field, glacier walks on Snaefellsjokull Glacier, Viking sushi boat tours, bird watching for puffins, and comprehensive tours of the Wonders of the West.
Reykjavik
Completing a memorable circumnavigation of Iceland, an incredibly beautiful country, is truly an achievement. Before concluding your journey, consider extending your stay to explore more of Iceland with the Krysuvik and Blue Lagoon excursion. You will have the chance to witness the geological marvels of the Reykjanes Peninsula and relax in the vibrant blue waters of Iceland’s renowned thermal bath.
Alternatively, if you missed exploring downtown Reykjavik earlier, join a downtown walking tour or board the City Sightseeing bus to delve deeper into the captivating history of the city.