Iceland is the land of ice and fire, a country of extremes with bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, volcanoes, glaciers, black sand beaches, and majestic waterfalls. It is a destination that captivates the imagination and invites for endless exploration. Given the abundance of sights and experiences, I’ve created several articles organized by region and theme. In this guide, I share my personal recommendations for the best things to do and see in South Iceland, including tips for the most beautiful places to visit, activities, tours and accommodations, helping you make the most of your visit.
Iceland is an island nation in the far northwest of Europe, situated just below the Arctic Circle, covering an area of approximately 103,000 km². The capital, Reykjavík, is home to about one-third of the country’s population and serves as its cultural and economic hub. In Iceland there are active volcanoes, glaciers, stunning waterfalls, and geothermal areas. During the summer months, the country experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight, while the winter brings shorter days and the opportunity to observe the Northern Lights.
Throughout my journey, I was continually amazed by the raw power of nature and the serene beauty of Iceland’s vast landscapes. In this article, I invite you to discover the wonders of Iceland and the best things to do and see through my experiences.
Iceland offers so many natural wonders and things to do, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. To provide a comprehensive yet focused guide, this guide concentrates exclusively on South Iceland. This region is among the most accessible and diverse in the country, boasting waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, and volcanoes all within close proximity. Unlike many destinations where reaching such unique sites requires extensive travel or hiking, in Iceland, you can easily drive or travel by campervan to these remarkable locations.
Tip: During the summer months, take advantage of the extended daylight hours by visiting attractions later in the evening. This strategy often allows you to experience popular sites with fewer crowds.
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, spending a few nights in Reykjavík is highly recommended. Not only is it practical at the beginning or end of your journey, but it’s also a cool city filled with stylish shops, art galleries, and amazing restaurants. Some must-see attractions and places to visit in Reykjavík include the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, the old harbour, and the modern art museums.
While Reykjavík is easy to explore on your own, joining a local guide can be a great experience to learn more about the city’s history and culture. You can book a tour here. Consider purchasing the Reykjavik City Pass, offering free admission to over 15 museums and other cultural things to do, including unlimited travel on city buses.
Embarking on a puffin-watching tour from Reykjavík is a great way to observe these cute creatures up close, without having to travel far. Departing from the old harbour, you’ll set sail on a comfortable boat to nearby islands such as Akurey, Engey, or Lundey, where thousands of puffins nest during the summer months. You can book a tour here. The best time to spot puffins is from late April to mid-August, when they come ashore to breed.
If you’ve read about Iceland, chances are you’ve come across its black sand beaches. Reynisfjara is one of the most impressive beaches, thanks to the basalt columns that can be admired right on the beach. Numerous birds fly around, and you’ll find unique rock formations in the sea, including the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Thanks to its location near the village of Vík, Reynisfjara is easily accessible and absolutely one of the must-see activities and things to do in southern Iceland. However, be cautious of dangerous sneaker waves that can appear unexpectedly.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is one of those fairytale-like sights and destinations that makes you want to visit Iceland. This 100-meter-deep and 2-kilometer-long canyon with steep, moss-covered walls was formed by glacial water carving its way through the landscape. From the parking lot, a trail leads you past several viewpoints, including a platform overlooking the Mögárfoss waterfall. The canyon is easily accessible via the Ring Road and then a short drive on Road 206.
An iconic spot in Iceland is Dyrhólaey, a rocky mountain known for its natural arch and impressive views over the surrounding black sand beaches. You can take short walks there. Moreover, in summer, it’s the perfect place to observe puffins up close. Tip: Visit in the evening during summer. It’s quieter then, and you can enjoy beautiful skies.
Vík í Mýrdal is a small village located on Iceland’s south coast. It’s a perfect base for exploring the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, the Dyrhólaey cliffs, and the waterfalls Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Be sure to visit the charming church perched high on the hill. Vík offers a campsite that’s perfect for overnight stays in a camper.
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most renowned waterfalls, with water cascading 60 meters down. A unique feature of this waterfall is the path that allows you to walk behind it, offering a view from within the mist. Be prepared to get quite wet, and note that this is one of the most popular thins to do and easily accessible attractions in southern Iceland, located about a two-hour drive from Reykjavik, so it is always busy.
Although more visitors are discovering it, Gljúfrabúi waterfall remains less frequented visited than nearby Seljalandsfoss. Meaning “dweller of the gorge,” Gljúfrabúi is a hidden waterfall accessible through a narrow canyon with a small stream. It’s within walking distance from Seljalandsfoss.
Skógafoss is another must-see waterfall along Iceland’s south coast. Standing 60 meters tall and 25 meters wide, the waterfall produces a mist that often creates rainbows on sunny days. You can admire it up close or climb the adjacent stairs for a view from above.
Looking for cultural activities and things to do in South Iceland after so much natural beauty? The Skógar Museum immerses you in Iceland’s history and culture. The museum comprises three sections: the Folk Museum, the Open Air Museum, and the Technical Museum, housing over 18,000 historical artifacts. Personally, I find the traditional turf houses in the open-air museum most worthwhile.
Tip: To the right of the Skógar Museum parking lot, a trail leads you to the beautiful Kvernufoss, a waterfall less visited than the nearby Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Don’t miss it.
You can’t leave Iceland without visiting this destination: Diamond Beach, located near the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, is a surreal place where you see large, glistening ice blocks on a black sand beach. You’ll need to blink a few times to realize it’s real. And on top of that, seals swim along the coast.
One of the most popular sights and places to visit in Iceland is the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, known from James Bond films: A View to a Kill (1985) and Die Another Day (2002). This glacier lagoon is filled with floating icebergs that regularly break off from the Vatnajökull glacier. And there’s a good chance you’ll spot various seals swimming among the icebergs. It’s remarkable how little effort it takes to get close to the icebergs. There are short walking paths right along the shore, and you can park your car directly at the lagoon.
It’s also possible to take a zodiac or amphibian boat tour or a canoe trip, where you sail among the icebergs. In the mood for more adventure? Then you can book a glacier hike tour, where you walk on the glacier.
Fjallsárlón is a beautiful glacier lake in Iceland and a quieter alternative to the busy Jökulsárlón. Here too, gigantic icebergs, originating from the Fjallsjökull glacier, float peacefully, and you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding ice mass. We arrived here at the end of the day and had the entire area to ourselves. During the day, you can do a glacier hike combined with a boat tour, where you sail among the ice blocks. You can book a tour here. It’s not cheap, but in my opinion, one of the activities and things to do in Iceland you shouldn’t miss.
Snorkeling in the Silfra fissure in Iceland is one of the unique activities where you literally swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Thanks to the crystal-clear water, sourced from the Langjökull glacier and filtered through lava fields, visibility on clear days can reach up to 100 meters. Several tours are offered in Reykjavik, including this one, where snorkel gear and a thermal suit are included.
One of my favorite things to do and see in southern Iceland is Svartifoss, located in Skaftafell National Park. This 20-meter-high waterfall is surrounded by impressive hexagonal basalt columns, formed by slowly cooled lava flows, resembling a natural stone cathedral. A short 45-minute hike from the visitor center leads you past other waterfalls like Hundafoss and Magnúsarfoss to Svartifoss. From there, you can return via the same path or complete a loop. Skaftafell also offers exciting glacier hikes on the famous Vatnajökull glacier. You can book a tour here.
If you’re traveling by camper, consider staying at the Skaftafell campground, allowing you to explore the national park and its sights directly from your campsite.
The plane wreck of the Douglas DC-3, which made an emergency landing on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur in 1973, has become one of the popular places to visit in South Iceland due to its desolate location. The walk to the wreck is about 4 kilometers (one way) across an open plain with no shelter, so bring appropriate clothing. Late afternoon is the best time to visit, as the light is moost beautiful.
The Golden Circle is one of the most famous things to do in Iceland, perfect for a first introduction to the country. During this route, you travel past several sights: The UNESCO World Heritage Þingvellir National Park, where you literally walk between two continents, the geothermal valley of Geysir, with the Strokkur geyser that shoots water up to 20 meters high every 5 to 7 minutes, and the impressive Gullfoss waterfall, which crashes into a deep canyon. The route is about 300 kilometers long and easy to drive from Reykjavík, making it one of the popular day trips in Iceland. You can also extend the Golden Circle route with the following destinations.
Want to visit the Golden Circle as a day tour from Reykjavík? You can book a tour here.
The Kerið crater is a 55-meter deep volcanic crater along the popular Golden Circle route in South Iceland. The red rock is caused by iron-rich lava and contrasts beautifully with the bright blue water of the crater lake. You can walk around the crater rim or follow a path down to the lake.
Friðheimar is a farm dedicated to tomatoes, a nice spot to include on your Golden Circle route. Thanks to geothermal energy, fresh tomatoes grow here year-round. You can enjoy delicious dishes both summer and winter in a greenhouse among the tomato plants. The menu features, perhaps unsurprisingly, tomato soup, fresh tomatoes, pasta with tomato sauce, Bloody Marys, and even tomato ice cream.
The Katla ice cave, located in the Kötlujökull glacier near Vík, is one of the few natural ice caves in Iceland accessible year-round. Once inside, you won’t believe your eyes at the bright blue ice with white snow layers and black volcanic ash. You can only enter the cave with a guide, wearing a helmet and crampons. Most tours to the Katla ice cave depart by jeep or pickup from Vík. Along the way, you learn more about volcanic activity, the cave’s formation, and the unique glacier landscapes of South Iceland. Here you can find a tour.
The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly one of Iceland’s most renowned attractions and places to visit. This geothermal spa is famous for its milky blue waters, rich in minerals, set amidst a rugged lava landscape. Images of the lagoon frequently appear on social media. You can relax in the warm waters, apply silica mud masks, and browse the upscale on-site shop. Despite its popularity, it remains a unique wellness experience in nature. It’s recommended to book your visit online in advance, especially during peak season, as slots fill up quickly.
Looking for a quieter alternative? Hvammsvík Hot Springs is a hidden gem located at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, just a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík. These natural hot springs, situated in the Hvalfjörður fjord, blend geothermal and seawater. The facility features pools of varying sizes and temperatures (36°C to 42°C), a steam cave, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjord.
Don’t forget to try the delicious fish soup at the on-site restaurant after your visit. Although not in southern Iceland but more towards the west, Hvammsvík Hot Springs is one of the must-visit attractions. You can book your admission here.
Want to learn more about the geological forces shaping Iceland’s landscape? Then visiting the Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur, is one of the cultural things you want to do in Iceland. This interactive exhibition takes you through the world of volcanoes and earthquakes with simulations, an earthquake simulator, and a 360° panoramic platform. From the rooftop terrace, you get views of the Hekla, Katla, and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes.
Faxi Bakery is located along Iceland’s ring road near the village of Hvolsvöllur, where you can enjoy fresh cinnamon rolls and bread. On a clear day, you get a beautiful view of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. A nice spot to include in your travel route.
Iceland offers many different ways to stay overnight. Options range from simple cabins and hostels to ultra-luxurious hotel experiences. There are also countless campsites in Iceland where you can comfortably stay in nature within walking distance of stunning sights and things to do. I personally chose a mix of boutique hotels, luxury cabins in nature, and adventures in a campervan, which I’ll tell you more about later in this article.
Looking for a unique stay in South Iceland? Then ÖÖD Hekla Horizon is the place for you. These luxury mirror cabins are located at the foot of the Hekla volcano, surrounded by mountains and fields of lava and moss. You can enjoy beautiful hikes nearby, and from your stylish cabin, private hot tub, and sauna, you get stunning views, with a chance to see the Northern Lights in winter. Curious? In the next article, I share more about ÖÖD Hekla Horizon in Iceland.
Do you want to stay at ÖÖD Hekla Horizon in Iceland? Here you’ll find the latest prices and availability.
The moment you drive up the driveway, you immediately feel the peace of the surroundings: no traffic, no crowds, just the green landscape around you. Hotel Rangá is a beautiful hotel located by the Rangá river, surrounded by volcanoes, waterfalls, and rivers. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day full of Icelandic adventures, enjoy the facilities, plan a dinner in the delicious restaurant, and spot the Northern Lights. In this article, I tell you more about Hotel Rangá in Iceland.
Thinking of staying at Hotel Rangá in Iceland? Here you’ll find the latest prices and availability.
The best way to discover Iceland and its many things to do and see is by car. This way you can stay overnight in beautiful hotels and cozy cabins in nature along the way. Looking for a rental car for your Iceland road trip? Go Car Rental Iceland is a local company with a wide range of vehicles, from compact city cars to 4x4s. They have convenient pick-up locations at both Keflavík airport and in Reykjavík itself, plus 24/7 roadside assistance.
With my exclusive code PTW, you get 5% off your rental car when booking through Go Car Rental Iceland. Make sure you rent a 4×4 car that is also allowed to drive on F-roads, so that you can also visit the off-the-beaten-track destinations.
Want to experience Iceland to the fullest and in an adventurous way? Then book a campervan, giving you ultimate freedom to explore the impressive nature at your own pace. With a camper, you can easily follow the Ring Road that circles the entire island and stop along the way at waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes. Campers are equipped with heating, cooking utensils, and plenty of storage space, allowing you to travel comfortably and stay overnight at one of the roughly 200 campsites scattered across the country.
Note: wild camping is forbidden in Iceland, so staying at official campsites is mandatory. This is a useful overview with campsites in Iceland.
Looking for a camper for your trip to Iceland? Go Campers Iceland offers a varied range of campers, from budget-friendly two-person vans to spacious 4×4 models. With unlimited kilometers, you can effortlessly follow the Ring Road or explore the remote highlands. Use the exclusive code PTW when booking for 5% off your adventure if you book through Go Campers .
Iceland has a cool oceanic climate with mild summers and cold, windy winters, where the weather can change quickly at any time. The best time to visit Iceland is from June through August, when the days are long and many roads and sights are easily accessible. In winter, from November to March, you can enjoy snowy landscapes and the Northern Lights.
I’ve done my best to map out the most beautiful destinations, attractions, cool activities, and tours in South Iceland. I hope this guide has answered most of your questions about what to do and see in Iceland and inspires you to get out and explore too. Which places in Iceland are you planning to visit soon?
Did you enjoy reading this article about the best things to do and see in Iceland? And do you want to read more about this amazing country? Have a look in the next Iceland travel guides.
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Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
