Iceland is a bucket-list destination that feels otherworldly. Its steaming geothermal lagoons, thundering waterfalls, and landscapes look like they’re straight out of a sci-fi film. Best part? This land of fire and ice is surprisingly easy to reach. With nonstop flights from multiple U.S. cities on Icelandair from New York to Denver, you could be soaking in the Blue Lagoon or chasing the northern lights within hours of landing.
I went to Iceland for the first time in 2018 hoping to see the aurora borealis, which I saw from my Icelandair flight from Denver. I recently got to fly on the inaugural non-stop flight from Nashville to Reykjavik to rediscover Iceland’s wonderous world of adventure. Whether you’re stopping over on your way to Europe or planning a full Icelandic adventure, here’s what you need to know for your first trip to Iceland.
Reykjavik: A Cool Capital with Warm Vibes
Reykjavik is the northernmost capital city in the world, and it’s as charming as it is eco-conscious. It’s one of the most sustainable cities globally and even designated a UNESCO City of Literature. There are no Starbucks or McDonald’s, but you’ll find puffin, pickled herring, and reindeer on some menus. A must try is fermented shark followed by a shot of Brennivin. A fun way to explore the city’s eateries and delicacies is on a food tour with Your Friend in Reykjavik.
The city is incredibly walkable, or you can hop on a Reykjavik sightseeing bus to hit top landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja Church—a modern cathedral with panoramic views—and Höfði House, famous for the 1986 summit between Reagan and Gorbachev. Don’t miss strolling along Rainbow Street to pop in and out of puffin shops (souvenir shops), cafes, and restaurants.
Reykjavik is also a hub for creative cuisine, art galleries, and Icelandic design. Spend two or three nights here and use it as a base for exploring southwest Iceland. For a stylish and central stay, check into the Reykjavik Edition.
Day Trip Must: The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a classic for a reason. This 300-kilometer loop (just over 186 miles) from Reykjavik features three of Iceland’s most iconic sights:
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique geology where you can see the continental drift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Geysir Geothermal Area – Home to the erupting Strokkur geyser, which shoots steaming water sky-high every 4-8 minutes.
Gullfoss Waterfall – One of Iceland’s most powerful and beautiful waterfalls, known as the “Golden Falls.”
You can self-drive or book a guided Golden Circle tour, and it’s an easy and unforgettable day from Reykjavik. Book your tour with either my friend Bessi Jónsson, owner of Moonwalker Adventure Tours or with Arctic Adventure.
For a unique lunch along the Golden Circle, make a reservation at Fridheimar. You’ll have the best tomato soup you’ve ever had in one of their greenhouses. After lunch enjoy a glass of wine in their new wine bar. The bar was made incorporating boulders from nearby farms.
Soak It All In: The Blue Lagoon Experience
Just 20 minutes from the airport, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect stop at the beginning or end of your trip. This geothermal spa is world-renowned for its mineral-rich, milky blue water that’s said to have healing properties for the skin.
For an elevated experience, stay at the Silica Hotel at Blue Lagoon, which includes premium lagoon access and a serene, design-forward vibe nestled in lava fields. If you want to really splurge, book a night at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, a 60-room luxury hotel with a subterranean spa and exclusive access to the lagoon.
Tip: Book your Blue Lagoon time slot in advance—it’s one of Iceland’s most popular attractions for first-timers.
Only in Iceland: Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventures
For a truly unforgettable experience, you can actually snorkel or dive between two continents at Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park. The water stays a chilly 2–4°C (35–39°F) year-round, but don’t worry—you’ll be in a dry suit as you float between the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia.
Another Iceland-only moment? Meeting the Icelandic horse, a small but mighty breed brought over by the Vikings. They have a unique fifth gait called the tölt and are known for their friendly demeanor. You’ll often spot them along scenic drives on the South Coast or can book a guided horseback riding tour at Icelandic Horseworld.
Best Place to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
For the ultimate aurora borealis experience, stay at Hotel Rangá on Iceland’s South Coast. Far from city lights, it’s the top hotel in Iceland for viewing the northern lights. The property is the only hotel in Iceland with an on-site observatory. It’s the perfect place to try starbathing—a form of meditative stargazing.
If you visit between September and April, you’ll have a good shot at witnessing the magical dance of the northern lights, especially on clear, dark nights. Hotel Rangá is also an excellent base camp to explore multiple waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, which you can walk behind, and Reynisfjara, Iceland’s famous black sand beach on its South Coast.
Iceland Travel Tips for First-Timers:
Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Language: Icelandic, but English is widely spoken
Drive or Tour: Rent a car for flexibility or opt for tours for convenience
Pack layers: Weather changes quickly—even in summer
Book in advance: Especially for popular sites like the Blue Lagoon and northern lights hotels or excursions.
For more tips, check out the live segment from Blue Lagoon I did for PIX11 in New York.
