A First-Timer’s Map to Iceland

A lake that looks so unreal. Steam rising from the ground, bubbling water, lava fields stretching for miles. It’s got that classic Icelandic look, otherworldly and dramatic.

A beach with chunks of icebergs wash up on shore. If you don't get to see any huge ones, there are plenty of little ones out there that are super pretty. Absolutely love that spot. It is really cool to see the contrast between the ice and then just the sheer black sand.

A geothermal spa located in southwestern Iceland, in a lava field. The warm, mineral-rich waters are perfect for soaking.

Skógafoss has been featured in many, many films, TV shows, all those types of things. But it’s epic. It’s absolutely epic. You don’t have to hike to get there either. You park in the parking lot, pay the fine to park, and then you just walk to the waterfall. The water isn’t very deep, so there’s quite a few people actually walking around in the water.

A remote seafront village in south Iceland. You can find lodging for the night and places to get something to eat.

A hidden waterfall on the Skógá River at the cliff marking the former coastline. This place is cool because you can walk underneath the waterfalls, and then you could also go on top. It’s not bad to get to off the road. It’s just right down the road from the Viking Village, like a 20-minute drive.

A waterfall in Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park and one of the most popular sights there. This waterfall has these basalt columns hanging around it. It is beautiful. Really, really, really pretty. Really dramatic.

This canyon was a surprise end is amazing, like amazing. It’s the most beautiful place we have ever seen with our eyes. That being said, to get up there, it’s about a two to four hour hike. So we recommend going as far as you can because the viewpoints just get better and better.

The iconic church in Reykjavik. Super tall, super unique, and inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns.

This waterfall is absolutely epic. It's a cool spot. It's about an hour outside of Reykjavik and I don’t think anything can adequately prepare you for just how majestic it is. If it’s colder outside, definitely layer up and wear some waterproof clothing, otherwise you will get soaked.

A waterfall called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” It’s wide, dramatic, and just beautiful. Water cascading down in a perfect curve.

A canyon created by progressive erosion by flowing water from glaciers. There’s multiple places to stop along the route. The farther you go, the more you see. Yeah, it’s absolutely epic. There are multiple waterfalls and birds flying everywhere in the canyon. There aren’t very many people up there either.

This is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe. You hear it before you see it. Just a massive, thundering wall of water crashing down.

A lighthouse sitting right on the edge of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Waves crashing, cliffs stretching out, and the lighthouse just standing there in the middle of it all. Pretty cool stop.

Alright, so this is like the Blue Lagoon but quieter and with an infinity pool looking over the ocean. Warm water, fresh air, and just amazing views. And they have this whole seven-step ritual where you go from hot to cold. Super relaxing.

Another black sand beach near Vik. Looks a lot like Reynisfjara but with fewer people. The waves are still wild, the cliffs are still crazy, and it’s just an epic place to take in Iceland’s coastline.

Alright, this one’s right off the road. Super easy stop. Just a nice little waterfall cascading down the rocks, surrounded by green hills. Nothing too crazy, but a really pretty spot to stretch your legs and take some pictures.

A quiet place to stay with mountain views. Super peaceful, super simple. Nothing crazy, but after a long day of exploring, it’s nice to have a spot to relax.

A small waterfall north of the larger falls of Seljalandsfoss in Iceland. It is less visible in the main one.

This place is insane. The ground is red, yellow, and steaming. The smell? Super strong. Sulfur everywhere. Feels like you’re walking on another planet, just steam vents hissing all around you. The air is hot, and the whole place feels alive.

A glacial lake with floating icebergs and wildlife sightings of seals and skuas. This place is beautiful.

A place where you can literally stand between two continents. One foot on North America, one foot on Europe. It’s a quick stop, but it’s pretty cool to take some photos.

A bright yellow school bus turned café, sitting unexpectedly along the road. It is adorable, making it a perfect stop on the way to Iceland’s waterfalls. Highly recommend, the coffee is delicious, and so are the pastries.

A nice hotel where you can rest after exploring. The rooms are clean, and the front desk staff is very helpful and kind.

So this is the parking lot for the east side of Stuðlagil. If you want the best views, this is the way to go. It’s a longer hike, but totally worth it.

A headland on the southeastern Icelandic coast. Stokksnes is just so dramatic, so beautiful. The access to get into Stokksnes is the same access point to get to the Viking village and it is one of our favorite spots in all Iceland.

The primary route to the famous basalt canyon. This access point involves a longer hike but rewards visitors with some of the most stunning views of the unique rock formations and vibrant river below.

The famous rainbow street in Reykjavik. Super colorful, super fun, and leading straight up to Hallgrimskirkja. One of the most photographed streets in the city, and for good reason.

A simple and convenient place to stay near the airport. Not a long stay kind of place, but perfect if you need somewhere before or after a flight. Easy check-in, easy check-out.