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.

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

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.