As Game of Thrones fans already know, Westeros is a fictional continent, home to the famous Seven Kingdoms and the uncharted, snow-covered territory beyond. In reality, much of the hit show was filmed in Iceland, and you can visit many of these stunning locations on your next trip to the real land of ice and fire.
The summer rush is long over, and the winter festivities have yet to begin, making October a peaceful time to visit. Enjoy colorful fall scenery and shorter days, taking advantage of one of the best times of year to view the Northern Lights. Read this monthly guide to learn more.
Don’t just stick to the Golden Circle and South Coast. You may see some great sights, but you’ll spend a lot of time in lines and waiting for people to get out of your pictures. To see a side of Iceland fewer travelers see, spend some time in Snaefellsnes, the Westfjords, or the North of the country. You’ll appreciate more of Iceland’s beauty and culture than you can by sticking to the most-visited areas.
June begins Iceland’s busiest travel season. With never-ending daylight hours and Midnight Sun tours, the country is alive with festivals and an all-access pass to hiking in the highlands. Find out what to do and where to go with this June guide.
Iceland's culture is deeply rooted in its Nordic region, with a settlement period going back centuries to when the locals worshipped gods and goddesses and before the Vikings had even arrived. You can experience this history and culture throughout the country by visiting museums devoted to architecture and folklore or learning about the Vikings through interactive exhibitions. Discover Icelandic sea monsters, stop by the birthplace of Leif Eiriksson, catch the sunlight at the Arctic Henge sundial, observe traditional turf houses, and more.
With few crowds, low prices, and ever-increasing daylight hours, March is arguably one of the best times to visit Iceland. Enjoy all the winter tours in peace and still have plenty of opportunities to catch the Northern Lights. Find out what to do and where to go with this March guide.
Having a great first day in Iceland after a long flight requires a bit of planning. We recommend starting your adventure on the right foot by diving right into all the great things Iceland has to offer. Based on the experience of travelers and the expertise of our local specialists, here are some useful strategies to make the most of your first day in Iceland._x000D_
If you do one activity in Iceland, make sure it’s a hot spring. Swimming in hot springs or geothermal pools are a time-honored tradition among Icelanders, ever since the days of the sagas. Families, couples, and friends get together regularly to soak, play, and share the latest gossip or news in hot waters. Depending on where you are, hot springs range from natural hot pools carved from the rock, to man-made pools with carbonated thermic waters, to more typical swimming pools, heated with geothermal energy. _x000D_
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While the Blue Lagoon can be a bit crowded for some people, this guide will show you the best-kept secrets awaiting you all over Iceland. So don’t forget to pack your swimsuit.
Iceland’s capital is ideally situated only a couple of hours from some of the country’s most beautiful natural sights, and there's plenty to be seen in the span of a single day. Whether you drive the popular Golden Circle route or opt for the basalt columns and lava fields of the remote Snaefellsnes Peninsula, it won't take you long to feel far from the city.
With a variety of fun and unique outdoor and indoor activities, your kids will love Iceland just as much as you will. Where else can kids take a dip in a natural hot spring, explore a Viking village, and go ice-skating on the same day?