Iceland Tour & Vacation Packages

People walking near the crater with rising sea at the geothermal area of Iceland, Namaskaro

Greenland’s the icy one; Iceland’s the green one. But remember this: they don’t call part of it the Golden Circle for nothing.

Calling all nature lovers, adventure seekers and fearless travelers. Iceland may be cold, but that’s the point—you’ll get to see all the glaciers, geysers and geothermal wonders you can handle. Discover a land of natural color: hues of azure at the  Blue Lagoon  and the icy Jokulsarlon, shades of green on the rolling hills framing Skogafoss and the striking black sand beaches that hug the coast. Not to mention the magical aurora borealis  that dance across the sky! From uncovering Viking tales and bathing in steamy springs to cruising past icebergs and exploring quirky farm towns,  Iceland  is island life like no other.

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Northern Lights Escape

Articles of Iceland

Why 2024 is the best year to see the northern lights

How the Icelandic hot dog became an international icon 

Iceland’s Folklore: 4 mythical creatures that make the scenery come alive

Top 12 things to do in Iceland

6 of the best hikes in Iceland

10 ways to get closer to nature with Intrepid  

In sickness and in health: How I ended up getting married on an Intrepid Iceland trip 

Iceland or Greenland? Which country should be next on your travel list? 

We also travel to

Iceland at a glance, capital city.

Reykjavik (population approximately 123,000)

Approximately 372,520

(GMT) Monrovia, Reykjavik

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Iceland

Culture and customs.

Similar to many other parts of Europe , Iceland has rules in place to help preserve its culture and geographic isolation is also a factor in developing and preserving the country’s cultural qualities. Independence, self-sufficiency and a strong work ethic – traits that allowed this northern island to flourish in challenging conditions – continue to be highly valued today.

Icelandic culture and customs are full of myths and legends, many with a connection to Christian and pagan values. Folk tales of elves, gnomes, fairies and trolls still circulate, and whether or not the locals continue telling these to unlock the secrets of the past, or simply in jest, they’re definitely worth listening to. But when news outlets report on road plans being changed to avoid disrupting an elfin church, it’s easy to believe that this unusual country and its magical landscapes are a product of what lies ‘hidden’ in its mysterious depths.

Today, Iceland is a highly modern and progressive society. It is consistently rated as having the smallest gender pay gap and strong LGBTQIA+ rights representation in the parliament and media. It’s also one of the greenest countries in the world, with almost all energy coming from renewable resources such as hydropower and geothermal.

Read more about Iceland's History and Folklore

History and government

Pre-modern history.

This island nation was settled by Vikings in the ninth century, with much of the early literature recognizing Norse sailor Ingolfur Arnason as the first settler of Iceland, founding Reykjavik in AD874 along with his wife and brother. Icelanders remain proud to this day of their Viking heritage. The Icelandic language, for example, is so similar to the Old Norse spoken during Viking times that Icelanders can still read and understand the original Icelandic sagas.

A book of settlements titled Landnamabok, compiled in the 12th century, documents the names and other details of nearly 400 original settlers of Iceland who arrived in the ninth and tenth centuries. The document tells of a Norse Viking called Floki who sailed to Iceland for fishing and farming, however, due to his livestock not surviving in the conditions, had to return to his home in Norway. After heading up a mountain and looking over a fjord full of sea ice, he named this land Iceland.

In AD930, an Icelandic General Assembly was established and was deemed a Christian settlement less than a century later. Settlers and slaves brought to Iceland by Scandinavians were of Irish and Norse descent, and although some still debate which communities influenced the identity we now know to be Icelandic, the first distinctive text documenting ‘Icelandic-ness’ is said to be a rule book of sorts – the First Grammatical Treatise.

20th century and today

After long periods under Norwegian and Danish rule, Iceland was recognized as a sovereign state in 1918. On 17 June 1944, Iceland became an independent republic. It has a multi-party parliamentary system and a written constitution. The parliament is still called Althingi after its medieval General Assembly.

Many of Iceland’s major industries stem from its location and surrounding natural resources. Tourism aside, fishing and seafood products make up much of the country’s exports and employ a majority of the workforce along with agriculture and farming. Recent investment in greenhouses and geothermal energy has seen Iceland become increasingly self-sufficient, growing products that usually do not fare well in icy climates, such as potatoes, tomatoes and potted plants. Other food is imported along with many consumer goods.

Eating and drinking

Flanked by the ocean and inhabited by almost twice the amount of sheep as humans, Iceland understandably boasts a cuisine dominated by seafood and local lamb.

The country’s diet relies on plenty of potatoes and lamb, but seafood trumps all – sourced fresh year-round from the waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic and prepared in a variety of ways. Be sure to try Hardfiskur – a salty fish jerky, best enjoyed buttered.

Sheep and cows are free-range and fed chemical-free diets, making lamb and dairy products exceptionally good here. One of the best ways to enjoy the produce on offer is to warm yourself up from the inside out with a hearty meat soup: a mixture of lamb, root vegetables, herbs, and rice.

Skyr, a popular yogurt that is technically a cheese, is also a must-try in all its variety of flavors. Eat it like the locals do at any time of the day – for breakfast, as a snack, as a dipping sauce, in drink form (called drykkur), or as a dessert topping.

Surprisingly, hot dogs are Iceland’s most iconic fast food. Widely available, a hot dog is probably the cheapest meal you’ll have in Iceland. Order one with all the toppings – sweet mustard, ketchup, raw onions, deep-fried onions, and aioli.

Rye bread (also known as rugbraud) and butter is a common side to most meals in Iceland, but the preferred way of cooking the loaves are quite unique. Traditionally, the bread is buried near a natural hot spring, sprinkled with sugar, and left to gently steam for up to 24 hours. The end result is dense, cake-like bread that has a slightly sweet taste. Enjoy it with a traditional Icelandic soup, smoked lamb, or, of course, fish.

Name a food and chances are Icelanders have tried to add licorice to it. Black licorice is beloved by locals and found in a wide range of desserts and candy bars. During your time here, head to Valdis in Reykjavik to test out a cone filled with salted black licorice ice cream. Even if the weather’s cold, the ice cream joints will be open!

The weird and wacky

Icelanders have a reputation for serving up some of the most unusual food in the world – boiled sheep’s head, fermented shark known as harkarl, ram testicles and smoked puffin to name a few. Although the country’s isolation and harsh winters once meant these foods were eaten out of necessity, today most of these ‘delicacies’ are only prepared to shock tourists. Try if you dare, but we suggest sticking to the common foods that locals eat.

Alcohol can be expensive in Iceland and is best bought at the duty-free shop. Although forms of prohibition existed until 1989, alcohol is now widely available all over the country in state-run liquor stores. If you’re feeling brave, try the local brew, Brennivin – a potent, traditional caraway-flavored schnapps nicknamed ‘black death’.

Read more about what to eat in Iceland

Read more about what to drink in Iceland

Iceland travel highlights

1. explore reykjavik.

Iceland's capital city is totally beguiling, surrounded by volcanic peaks and boasting a vibrant art and nightlife scene. Browse the city’s galleries, explore the colorful street art, dine on fresh lox (traditionally cured salmon),   or cycle to the striking cathedral of Hallgrimskirkja – trying to say that after a tipple or two of Brennivin (Iceland's signature spirit) might be tricky! Get stuck into Icelandic culture on our 6 day Northern Lights Escape .

2. Discover the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is the holy trinity of southern Iceland. This 186-mile (300 km) route is brimming with natural wonders that showcase why so many travelers fall under Iceland's spell. Marvel at the layered cascades of Gullfoss Waterfall, explore the dramatic rift valley in Thingvellir National Park and witness the unpredictable eruptions in Geysir Geothermal Area. Marvel at breathtaking natural landscapes on our 5 day Iceland Express tour.

3. Cruise along Jokulsarlon

It's impossible not to be amazed by the sheer size and beauty of Jokulsarlon, Iceland’s famous glacial lagoon. Enjoy a boat tour along the icy waters where you'll cruise past towering glaciers and witness icebergs of all shapes, sizes and shades of blue drifting into the Atlantic Ocean. Cool down on our 8 day Iceland Discovery tour.

4. Experience life in Akureyri

Soak up the charm of this northern port city – the second-largest city in Iceland. Better described as a big town with lots of character, you'll be won over by its quaint turf homes, rich history and folklore, and the imposing Mount Súlur that looms over the town. Akureyri is also an ideal Northern Lights viewing location between September and April. Explore the streets of Akureyri on our 9 day Premium Iceland tour.

5. Be wowed by Westfjords

Venture off course to the unspoiled, untamed reaches of the Westfjords – without the big crowds. This is a land where mountains meet the sea most dramatically, where waterfalls tumble down into the inky fjords and puffins live along the towering cliffs. If you’re lucky and conditions allow, we might cruise along Látrabjarg (Europe’s largest bird cliff) to see puffins, razorbills, guillemots and more. Adventure through the Westfjords on our 14 day East Greenland and Iceland Northern Lights tour.

6. Bathe in the Blue Lagoon

There's no need to worry about being cold all the time in Iceland when you can slip into the famous Blue Lagoon just out of Reykjavik. Surrounded by black volcanic rock, a soak in the mineral-rich, milk-blue waters of this geothermal spa is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a big day of walking. 

Geography and environment

Iceland possesses some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders and unique landscapes. From active volcanoes to vast ice fields, bubbling hot springs and enormous glaciers, these dramatic contrasts have earned Iceland the nickname of the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’.

Many of these geological features are products of geographical location – on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates intersect and their movements away from each other create volcanic activity. The country is covered by moss-carpeted lava fields, soaring fjords, incredible waterfalls and dramatic geysers, all of which add to Iceland’s otherworldly look.

The country is also the perfect spot to see the Northern Lights. From September to March, you’ll have the best chance to view this spectacular natural light show when the skies are clear and auroral activity is high. But don’t let that stop you from visiting in other seasons – Iceland’s natural wonders are truly year-round attractions.

Top 4 natural phenomena of Iceland

1. Northern Lights

The Northern Hemisphere's Aurora Borealis has captivated and intrigued travelers for years. Any winter tour of Iceland absolutely must include a chance to see the Northern Lights. This natural light display that runs along magnetic fields often brings hypnotic green, yellow and red shades to the night sky in Iceland from September to March. As one of nature's most magnificent triumphs, this is one unforgettable spectacle.

2. Gullfoss

Otherwise known as Golden Falls, this spectacular three-tiered waterfall drops suddenly into a deep cavern. The falls are surrounded by lush, green countryside, and the rainbows created by the mist and spray provide brilliant photo opportunities.

3. Lake Myvatn

This part of northern Iceland was born from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago and continues to be shaped by volcanic activity to this day. The combination of strange lava formations, thermal caves and a sprawling lake dotted with craters and rising rocks makes for an eerie yet beautiful landscape.

4. Jokulsarlon

Literally translating to ‘glacial river lagoon’, this monumental glacier lake is the largest in Iceland. Featuring a parade of large and small blue icebergs floating on and under the pure, icy water, this lagoon is so beautiful that it has been used as a backdrop for Hollywood films, a set for reality television shows and in a starring role on a postage stamp!

Iceland is notorious for being an expensive destination. Travelling on a budget here is difficult but can be done. Head to Bonus – Iceland’s discount grocery store – so you can cook rather than eat out for each meal. The duty-free store at Keflavik International Airport is the best place to pick up a bottle of Icelandic alcohol such as Brennivin liquor, Reyka vodka or Viking Gold beer for a fraction of the price you’d find elsewhere. It’s also a good idea to travel as a group, as operators can get better rates than a single traveler at hotels and restaurants, plus they know all the local hotspots.

If you’d like to take home Icelandic local specialties, Reykjavik is the best place to shop. Some of the country’s coolest retailers can be found on Laugavegur, one of the oldest shopping streets. Here you can browse clothing from quirky local designers alongside traditional lambswool sweaters, as well as tourist shops selling plastic Viking hats and puffin magnets. For smaller boutiques selling local art, head to Skolavordustigur.

Festival and events

Despite the long and dark winters, Icelanders are among the happiest people in the world. Why? One reason is that they understand the importance of getting together and having a good time, even if it’s pitch black outside. There are many celebrations to join in on throughout the year, but here are a few to look out for:

Winter Lights Festival

Every year, buildings around Reykjavik light up at night to celebrate both the winter world and the growing light after a long period of darkness. The Winter Lights Festival uses many public buildings and all major museums and thermal pools to illuminate the city with lighting designs and art installations as a way to get people thawed out after a long winter.

This annual mid-winter feast in January or February is one of Iceland’s oldest festivals, dating back to Viking days. Fearless eaters can find restaurants in Reykjavik offering special Thorrablot dinners of boiled sheep’s head, rotten shark’s meat, and cured ram testicles. If you can, try to snag an invitation to a local’s house, where celebrations tend to be more festive and involve lots of singing, dancing, and drinking.

Viking Festival

Modern-day Vikings in traditional garb flock to Hafnarfjorour each June for a festival Leif Erikson would approve of. Swordfights, archery, axe throwing, a traditional market, concerts, and a proper Viking feast are all part of the festivities.

National Day

1944 marks the year that Iceland became a republic after an overwhelming majority of the citizens voted for independence. The deciding referendum took place between May 20 and 23 that year; however, Iceland’s National day is celebrated on June 17th – the birthday of the man who originally led the movement in the late 19th century, Jon Sigurdsson. There are parades all around the country, usually with brass bands and marching horses. Music food, fireworks, and street parties – you get it, they’re a patriotic bunch.

Dalvik Fiskidagurinn Mikli (The Great Fish Day)

Each August, the northern fishing village of Dalvik invites you to a free, all-you-can-eat fish and seafood buffet – held for no reason other than to get people together over a delicious meal. You might come for the free food, but you’ll stay for the company.

Read more about festivals in Iceland

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Iceland adventure, check out these books:

  • Independent People   – Halldor Laxness
  • Jar City   – Arnaldur Indridason
  • The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland   – Alda Sigmundsdottir
  • Waking Up in Iceland   – Paul Sullivan
  • The Tricking of Freya   – Christina Sunley
  • Viking Age Iceland   – Jesse L Bycock
  • The Far Traveler: Voyages of a Viking Woman   – Nancy Marie Brown
  • Burial Rites   – Hannah Kent
  • The Book of Settlements: Landnamabok   – Herman Palsson (trans.)

Discover more about visiting Iceland from our travel experts in our Complete Guide to Iceland.

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around Iceland. The options below may be of interest:

Tours to Reykjavik 

Northern Lights Tours

Iceland or Greenland

Iceland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Deciding what you want to see in Iceland will give you a better idea of when is the best time to travel. Wanting to get active around the countryside and see waterfalls and wildlife? The warmer spring and summer months are probably ideal. Prefer to soak in the geothermal lagoons and get a chance to see the Northern Lights? Well, likely the cooler months – with their longer nights – are best for you.

Spring and summer are considered optimal times to visit Iceland if green landscapes and balmy days are your thing. The early spring months bring warmer days, while summer offers long daylight hours with only short nights. In the summer season, July and August are the warmest months and the busiest time for tourists.

In September, tourism tends to slow down as the weather becomes unpredictable and the countryside is usually less accessible. However, there are plenty of attractions for the off-peak traveler, including the beauty of fall colors and, of course, the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.

As you might expect, winters in Iceland can be challenging. During late December there are about four-and-a-half hours of daylight and it's often cloudy. In January, there are on average three sunny days in Reykjavík, with temperatures hovering around freezing point, often with chilling winds.

Do I need a visa to travel to Iceland?

Iceland is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Iceland, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement. Other countries do require a visa to visit Iceland, including citizens of South Africa.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your country of origin. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Iceland?

Tipping isn't expected in Iceland. Hotels, restaurants and cafes already include a service fee and consumption taxes (VAT) in the bill, so tipping extra isn't necessary. However, feel free to leave a small amount if your experience has been particularly good, especially for assistance provided by drivers, tour leaders or service workers.

What is the internet access like in Iceland?

Travelers will be able to access the internet in cybercafes and at wi-fi hotspots in Iceland's cities and large towns. Rural and remote areas may have less internet access, so be prepared when traveling away from the city.

Most accommodation and eateries in Iceland offer wi-fi access, which is usually free to use with a code. If you wish to stay connected for the majority of your trip, it may be wise to purchase a prepaid SIM card with a data package.

Many Icelandic libraries and tourist information offices have shared computers for public internet access if you are without a device to connect to wi-fi. Sometimes a small fee is charged for this service.

Can I use my cell phone while in Iceland?

Travelers can use their cell phones in Iceland's main cities and towns, though remote and isolated areas may have inferior cell reception.

If you wish to stay connected for the majority of your trip, it may be wise to purchase a prepaid SIM card for the duration of your journey. This will likely be the cheapest way to use your phone in Iceland.

For EU citizens, depending on who you have your phone plan with, you may be able to use your current SIM in Iceland – your service provider will be able to provide more details.

Global roaming can also be activated, but check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur, as sometimes this can be expensive.

What are the toilets like in Iceland?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in Iceland.

In terms of public toilets, Reykjavik and other major towns and cities have some, but along highways and at many tourist destinations – especially campgrounds and natural attractions – there is a lack of facilities. Expect to pay a small fee when visiting public toilets and, in busy months, expect queues in main tourist areas.

There have been recent occurrences of tourists resorting to other means in remote places and near tourist sites. We recommend being prepared and talking to your group leader if you have any concerns.

What will it cost for a…?

Iceland's unit of currency is the krona. Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

  • Hotdog = ISK 400-600
  • Glass of beer = ISK 1,100-1,500
  • Simple lunch at a cafe = ISK 2,100-3.700
  • Dinner in a restaurant = ISK 2.600-4.200

Can I drink the water in Iceland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in Iceland unless marked otherwise. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Iceland?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Iceland and are used frequently by locals to pay for just about anything. Paying with a credit card at shops, guesthouses, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, and on taxi rides shouldn't present a problem. Iceland is almost a cashless society, so cards are the best option; however, a lot of payments will require your four-digit PIN, so be sure to know this before you leave home.

What is ATM access like in Iceland?

ATMs are usually easy to find in Iceland's cities and villages and generally accept most foreign cards.

What public holidays are celebrated in Iceland?

  • 1 Jan: New Year's Day
  • Mar/Apr: Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Monday*
  • 1 May: Labur Day
  • May/Jun: Ascension Day*
  • May/Jun: Whit Sunday and Whit Monday*
  • 17 Jun: National Day
  • First Monday in August Commerce Day*
  • 24 Dec: Christmas Eve
  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day
  • 26 Dec: Boxing Day
  • 31 Dec: New Year's Eve

*Please note, Iceland public holidays may vary.

What is the weather like in Iceland?

Iceland’s temperatures are cool and do vary throughout the year. In winter months, minimum temperatures plummet to below freezing. In Reykjavik, summer temperatures average at around 52°F  ( 11°C ), while winter maximums are approximately  32°F ( 0°C ). Rainfall is quite consistent throughout the year; between 1"-2" inches (25–50 mm) per month, with most days experiencing some rainfall.

Is it safe to travel to Iceland?

Iceland is a very safe country to travel to and is one of the safest countries in the world.

Is Iceland safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

The people of Iceland have an open and accepting attitude to LGBTQIA+ communities, and Iceland is considered one of the world’s most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries. Since 2006, same-sex couples have had equal access to adoption and IVF, and in 2010 the Icelandic Parliament made a unanimous decision to define marriage as between two individuals. As might be expected in a small country, however, the gay scene is quite low-key, even in Reykjavik.

In 2012, more legislation was passed to formalize the name and identity-changing process for the needs of trans and genderqueer individuals. There is still a way to go to achieve full equality, but Iceland is, in many regards, leading the way globally.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel and reading more about the LGBTQIA+ culture in Iceland .

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Iceland accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Because of its remote location and size, Iceland can prove difficult when it comes to accessibility for individuals with mobility issues. Some of the main sights, such as the Blue Lagoon, are wheelchair accessible, but many of the natural attractions have unpaved paths and unsteady terrain. Iceland has a dedicated information center,  Thekkingarmidstod Sjalfsbjorg , that provides up-to-date information on accessibility and accessible facilities in Iceland, as well as other related information.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Iceland

In summer, Iceland experiences cool but mild weather throughout the country, with maximum temperatures averaging around 55°F. It’s still important, however, to pack some warm clothing at this time, as temperatures at night can drop quite dramatically. In winter, some days barely reach over 32°F, so preparing for this is crucial. It can be wet and windy, and roads may be iced over, so thermal gear, a waterproof jacket and pants and sturdy walking boots are all highly recommended.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How will I be traveling around Iceland?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are much more fun.

Depending on what trip you're on in Iceland, you may find yourself traveling by:

All-terrain Unimog

To see all of Iceland, you’ll need some heavy-duty transport. This super-sized van will take you on glacier visits to admire these almighty ice caps up close.

Amphibian boat

Part truck, part boat, all adventure ­– cruise the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon in a small group aboard one of these vessels, on land and lake.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

iceland tour holiday 2023

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Adventure into the Land of Fire and Ice

This small island packs a lot of wonder into every inch—you'll find fiery volcanos, crystalline waterfalls, and majestic glaciers on the land, and the iridescent glow of the Northern Lights each winter in the skies above. Discover Iceland's Viking past, and its warm and welcoming culture.

iceland tour holiday 2023

  • Northern Lights

You'll have the best chance of catching the most amazing, all-natural light show if you travel to Iceland from late September to late March.

Reykjavik

The capital's name, Reykjavik, literally means "cove of smoke," inspired by the steam coming from the natural hot springs.

iceland tour holiday 2023

  • Skogar Folk Museum

Lush, green turf roofs (with an underlay of birch bark) were one of the most common roofing types throughout Scandinavia and Iceland—and offered plenty of insulation during the cold winter months.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Perlan Observatory

The Perlan Observatory offers spectacular views of Reykjavik and Iceland below—and the Northern Lights above.

Reynisfjara Beach

  • Reynisfjara Beach

The volcanoes that built Iceland also created its gorgeous black sand beaches—and the stone columns here, which legend has it were created by trolls.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Natural Springs

Iceland's abundant natural springs offer many opportunities for soaking and soothing.

iceland tour holiday 2023

  • Blue Lagoon

The gorgeous Blue Lagoon isn't technically a natural hot spring--it was built in a volcanic lava field to harness the heat of the 100-degree, mineral-rich water from beneath the earth's surface.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Black Beach

The volcanoes that built Iceland also created its gorgeous black sand beaches.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Diamond Beach

Bits of glacial ice wash ashore on the black sands of Diamond Beach, looking like massive diamonds glittering on the ground.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Hot Springs

A plunge into an Icelandic spring is among the most restorative natural therapies you'll ever find.

iceland tour holiday 2023

  • Secret Lagoon

The Secret Lagoon is a small, natural hot springs that became Iceland's first public swimming pool in the 19th century.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Skogafoss Falls

Rainbow seekers are often lucky enough to find double rainbows created in the mist that rises from theis waterfall's 200-foot-long drop.

iceland tour holiday 2023

  • Thingvellir National Park

Thanks to the volatile volcanic forces still at play in the Land of Fire and Ice, Thingvellir National Park expands by nearly an inch each year.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Strokkur Geyser

Strokkur Geyser erupts every five to eight minutes, sending water and steam nearly 100 feet into the air.

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  • Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto
  • Moscow University
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  • Palace of Holyroodhouse
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  • Slieve League Cliffs
  • Smallest House in Britain
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  • South Pole Inn
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  • Staff Picks
  • Price (Low to High)
  • Price (High to Low)

iceland tour holiday 2023

Icelandic Explorer

Starting from $4,095

Explore Iceland's incomparable waterfalls, geysers, glaciers and landscapes, but take in so much more as you focus on its fascinating culture and heritage. Discover life in early Viking…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Reynisdrangar Black Sand Beach

Taste of Iceland

Starting from $2,895

Dive into one of the world's wildest and most wonderful places on this Iceland tour, which covers the volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs and waterfalls that wow every traveler.

Northern Lights Iceland

Northern Lights Quest of Iceland

Starting from $2,845

Hunt the horizon for the amazing aurora borealis on this Iceland tour. Explore the natural wonder and beauty of the land of fire and ice, from the Golden Circle to Diamond Beach.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Iceland at a glance

not expected

Avg.Summer Temp

Avg. winter temp, peak tourist season.

June, July & August

Local lingo

Þetta reddast (It will all work out okay)

víðsýni (panoramic view)

bless (goodbye)

Must-have souvenirs

Pylsusinnep (sweet brown mustard)

Icelandic wool sweaters

Icelandic licorice

Iceland is just strikingly beautiful - the landscape is amazing, the culture is fascinating, and the contrast between fire and ice is extraordinary.

iceland tour holiday 2023

The Inclusive Advantage

Get more without spending more. CIE Tours includes every experience and most meals so you won't be hit with hidden expenses.

iceland tour holiday 2023

How can we help you?

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Top Vacation Packages in Iceland

Explore iceland through the eyes of a local, with these activity-filled vacation packages spanning the whole island. each trip includes a rental car, accommodation and day tour options, all tailor-made to your needs..

 A tailor-made vacation is fully personalized to you. It is crafted to your needs, interests, and budget. And because we are tailor-made trip specialists, the package we design will fit you perfectly, like a bespoke suit. We have created thousands of custom Iceland vacations for visitors worldwide, including world-famous celebrities, singers, Hollywood film stars, and influencers. We take pride in having unparalleled expertise in this field. The following itineraries give examples of what is possible when traveling in Iceland. Treat them simply as inspiration because one of our specialists will create your trip uniquely based on your particular interests and travel style.

Estimated budget per adult based on bookings for two

Adventure-packed Carbon Neutral Premium Self-Drive Iceland Tour – 8 Day

Sustainable iceland family adventure – 8-day co2 neutral self-drive tour, activity-filled co2 neutral self-drive tour – 5 days, action-filled luxury summer adventure, activity-filled family holiday in iceland, wonders of iceland – 8-day private vacation, south coast & golden circle 5-day private vacation, highlights of south iceland – private luxury adventure, 5-day luxury adventure, iceland winter explorer – 8 days, magical south iceland – 6-day winter vacation, reykjavík winter escape – 4-day city break with bus transfer.

Best Seller

Northern Lights Explorer – 5-day Winter Vacation

Winter highlights – 5-day getaway package, winter weekend getaway in reykjavík with bus transfer, iceland complete, essential iceland, iceland circle, west iceland & the westfjords, highlights of west iceland, tailor-made vacation packages.

We offer a bespoke trip crafted to your specifications. A unique itinerary where every part of the trip has been created individually to suit your style, taste, and budget, resulting in a unique travel experience.

You will discover stunning landscapes that will leave you breathless. Whether you’ve got four days, a week, or even a month, exploring by car is the ultimate way to see the island— from active volcanoes, sparkling blue glaciers, and stunning waterfalls to incredible black sand beaches and fjord side villages.

Get the trip you want. By choosing us, you will control every step of the planning. We will provide you with all the information you need, and you will decide what’s on the itinerary.

You can spend as much time as you like at any location and make extra stops whenever you feel like it. You can head out in the middle of the night to take a walk, admire the midnight sun in summer, or hunt the Northern Lights in winter.

A tailor-made trip is exclusive, hassle-free, safe, provides an authentic travel experience, and is absolutely failproof. It is truly a dream trip. 

What can you expect from a tailor-made vacation package?

With a personalized vacation package, a local expert takes care of all the organizing, saving you much work, stress, and valuable time. You get priceless expert advice from professionals, a detailed itinerary tailored to your needs, and all the essentials included in the price.

White car running on a country road In the summer of iceland There are purple lupine flowers blooming all over the area. Is a holiday travel on a road trip concept.

Crafted to your specifications

We can create an itinerary from scratch, or modify one of the suggested itineraries you find on our website. Our consultant will listen to your ideas and what you most enjoy, so they can identify the most important aspects of this trip for you.

Custom itineraries

You decide what’s on the itinerary, choosing exactly where you want to go, how long you want to spend in each place, and what you want to do in all your chosen destinations. By personalizing a tour in this way you create a trip that’s totally unique to you.

Personal assistance and 24/7emergency line

You remain in full control of the planning process from start to finish. When you are happy with every detail, you pay securely online, relax, and simply look forward to heading off on your trip. Your travel expert will be on hand to assist at all times and a 24/7 emergency number is provided for when you are in the destination.

group-of-men

Families and friends

Tailor-made travel is ideal when traveling as a family, or as a group of travelers of different ages. Keeping everyone happy can be a challenge when planning a trip yourself, but a local expert can organize a range of activities to suit everyone.

003-travel

Solo travelers and special interests

Tailor-made itineraries also offer opportunities to accommodate special interests, such as history, wildlife, extreme sports, or with a plan to see places that are not necessarily on the tourist trail.

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Honeymooners and couples

Celebrate your honeymoon or anniversary on an adventurous journey around Iceland. Make it a special experience for just the two of you, with a personalized itinerary and your own private vehicle.

002-team

The team that travels together, stays together. Whether you are planning an incentive trip, destination meeting, corporate retreat, or team building event, we have the skills and experience to best serve you.

Who is tailor-made travel for?

Tailor-made trips are uniquely designed for each traveler . You get to do everything that you want, your way.

They are also perfect if you are looking for authentic experiences. With a local expert’s knowledge, you can gain a deeper insight into local culture.

Our packages give you the chance to enjoy Iceland with more freedom and only with those you choose, rather than being stuck on a crowded bus full of strangers. 

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Customers reviews

tripadvisor+reviews

Feel confident and safe on your trip

Book now and travel with Activity Iceland without worry. Should travel plans change for any reason, our flexible cancellation policy ensures you enjoy your travel experience with us knowing we will work with your schedule and travel needs. If you need to postpone or cancel your holiday, we will be here to support you with full refunds and hassle-free postponement. You can be assured that booking with Activity Iceland is risk-free. Activity Iceland has received the Clean & Safe World Travel and Tourism Council’s Safe Travels stamp, which provides travelers with assurance that our company and our partners have adopted health and hygiene global standardized protocols.

ACTIVITY ICELAND by icelandia

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Iceland

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Iceland. There are 219 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 23 days. The month with the most departures is August, making it the most popular time to visit Iceland.

219 Fully Guided tour packages in Iceland with 3,511 reviews

Best of Iceland Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Best of Iceland

Fifa made the tour GREAT. She was entertaining, flexible, helpful, positive, informative and kept a great pace. She added a few stops and made sure that everyone was able to experience the activity they were most looking forward to. Also, we were very lucky, for the most part the weather really cooperated and all the waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, beaches, and all of the other sights were more impressive in person, than in pictures. Plus the Puffins arrived right before we did!!

Iceland Discovery Tour

Iceland Discovery

The tour was well designed - we saw a variety of places and enjoyed a wide range of activities. The van was a convenient means of transportation, but the seats in the back row were cramped, with less leg room than between the other rows, and on the long drives it became very uncomfortable. The accommodation was excellent in most places, with clean and airy rooms. Exception: the large guesthouse in Siglufjordur, where the standard of cleanliness was lower, and the faucet in our room sink was stiff and very hard to use. The food was fresh, healthy, and tasty in all places. Stefan was knowledgeable, helpful in all situations, responsive to our needs, and personable. He also announced and implemented seat rotation.

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights Tour

  • Northern Lights
  • Christmas & New Year

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

I loved our late December tour. I would recommend it and would do it again. There are two things that I wished I had known before the trip. 1) Obviously the Northern Lights are difficult to predict. I didn't realize though that ratings for the intensity that, range from 0-9, that 1-3 which is most common are also not visible to the naked eye only the camera. So even though I technically "saw" the lights as my camera showed them, emotionally it doesn't feel like it. 2) Since the days are so short, there is a lot of chasing sunlight feeling. It wasn't bad, but it basically means that you have like 30 mins at a beach or waterfall before heading to the next destination. It felt like a photo scavenger hunt race. Walk briskly out to these beautiful views, snap a dozen rapid photos and selfies, then race back to the bus. Along these lines, the part that was poorly communicated, was that because we were racing the daylight, that we nearly always ended up grabbing a gas station lunch and eating in the bus. It is fine, but I wished I had known going in. When the tour description says lunch in "x" town, that is clearly the longer season description, when daylight lasts 12 hours, not 4. The glacier hike was the highlight of the trip. The ice cave is interesting, but the real excitement is walking in the blue ice crevasses on the glacier.

Iceland Express Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Iceland Express

Loved your country. Our guide , Pall. was extremely knowledgeable and presented information in great story form. Definitely want to return for more.

6 Day - Around Iceland Adventure Tour

6 Day - Around Iceland Adventure

The Tour was amazing we had so much fun an visited so many places!! Our Guide Hjalti was the best Guide we could dream off! We couldn‘t do the whale watching necause of the bad weather but he thought about a backup plan to enjoy the day at a museum. Really a beautiful experience that I absolutly can recommend! I even more fell in love with Iceland! Thank you Hjalti for making this Tour the best of our lifetime!

Premium Iceland Tour

Premium Iceland

8 Day Around Iceland Summer Minibus Tour Tour

8 Day Around Iceland Summer Minibus Tour

Wonderful trip with Johan our guide. The trip around the island was great, but I really enjoyed listening to Johan and him relating his stories of growing up in this isolated country. His family stories were what brought the tour to life. Our van was roomy and new giving everybody space to stretch out. I highly recommend this tour.

Best of Iceland: Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tour

Best of Iceland: Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes Peninsula

6 Day - Iceland Ring Road Small-Group Tour Tour

6 Day - Iceland Ring Road Small-Group Tour

It was great. I was in a small group of nice travellers. Guide was very nice and he even helped us to see northern lights! (Which is not included in the tour). We were on time everytime and i was in amazing places. I recomend it!

7 Day - Iceland Ring Road & Snæfellsnes Peninsula Small-Group Tour Tour

7 Day - Iceland Ring Road & Snæfellsnes Peninsula Small-Group Tour

A well paced tour giving an overview of Icelands highlights

Tailor-Made Private Trip to Iceland Tour

Tailor-Made Private Trip to Iceland

  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Iceland Circle - 8 Days Tour

Iceland Circle - 8 Days

Excellent trip. Great guide and driver.

10 day Guided tour | Iceland Complete Tour

10 day Guided tour | Iceland Complete

Excellent trip great guide. It is hard not to like Iceland.

Natural Wonders of Iceland (Classic, 9 Days) Tour

Natural Wonders of Iceland (Classic, 9 Days)

We really enjoyed 10 days and met very nice people in the tour group. This was our first rip to Iceland. We would like to come back again to visit missed places. Very good experiences to learn history, culture, and see people, unique landscape, powerful waterfalls, hot springs, even horses and sheep. Iceland is simply great nature.
  • £130 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Classic Iceland Adventure Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

Classic Iceland Adventure

Reviews of fully guided tours in iceland.

I can't say enough good things about our Best of Iceland Tour. Gisli Anton Bjarnason was the best tour guide we've ever experienced! We thoroughly enjoyed our week!
Good Itinerary and great guide. Overall a well organized and run trip. Enjoyed every bit of it.
Overall the guides and drivers were excellent - in their knowledge, driving safety, preparing the group for activities that were next on the list. The only down time during the day was some of the distances between stops. But not an issue as we were well aware of that before hand. A good value for the cost!!

Regions in Iceland

  • South Iceland (105)
  • Iceland South Coast (80)
  • West Iceland (33)
  • Reykjanes (14)
  • North Iceland (10)
  • East Iceland (7)
  • Iceland Westfjords (5)
  • Thingvellir National Park (5)

Travel Styles

  • Fully Guided
  • Iceland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • Best 7 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
  • Best 10 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
  • What is the best time to visit Iceland in 2024/2025?
  • Weather in Iceland in 2024/2025

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Geführte Rundreisen in Island
  • Français: Islande : Circuits entièrement guidés 2024/2025
  • Español: Totalmente guidado Circuitos en Islandia
  • Nederlands: Volledig begeleid Rondreizen in Ijsland

A man standing in front of mountains at Landmannalaugar

Iceland vacation packages

Visit Iceland and see stunning landscapes, like lava fields, glacier lagoons, and ice caves. With these Iceland vacation packages, you can fit all this in and a whole lot more. So get stuck in and find your next adventure.

  • Wide range of travel styles
  • Itineraries designed by locals
  • Extend your trip with extra days
  • 24/7 helpline in Iceland

65 trips found

A man standing below Kirkjufellsfoss

Iceland Ring Road Adventure with Snæfellsnes

The ultimate road trip with ‘Iceland in Miniature’.

Reynisfjara with the Reynisdrangar sea stacks by sunset

Iceland Ring Road: Best of the Best

Take the Iceland road trip of a lifetime.

Puffins on the Látrabjarg sea cliffs

Iceland Ring Road & Westfjords Epic Adventure

Explore every corner of Iceland in 2 weeks.

The Northern Lights over a lake in south Iceland

Iceland Ultimate Day Tripper with Northern Lights

Combine a stay in wintry Reykjavík with guided day tours into the frosted countryside.

Person exploring glacier ice cave in Iceland

Iceland Active Winter Wellness

Combine thrilling activities with blissful hot spring visits.

Reykjavik and Mount Esja covered in snow

Christmas Wonders of Iceland Group Adventure

Spend Christmas in Iceland and glimpse waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and more

Person with torch admiring the northern lights in Iceland

Northern Lights Ring Road Group Adventure

Explore jaw-dropping landscapes and learn about local culture from an expert guide.

Strokkur erupting on a sunny summer day

South & West Iceland in a Week

7 days, dozens of unforgettable sights.

rocky arch cliff in a turquoise sea

Iceland Ring Road Bus Tour – Big Group Adventure

Soak up Iceland’s awe-inspiring sights around the Ring Road.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Winter Wonders of Iceland – Big Group Adventure

Set off on a wintry adventure around the south coast.

Þingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament

Winter Wonders of Iceland – Small Group Adventure

Discover top attractions in winter with a local guide.

Mountaineers of Iceland Langjökull snowmobile tour

Active Iceland Fire and Ice Expedition

Experience glaciers up close and walk in the footsteps of lava.

Showing 12 of 65 trips

About our Iceland vacations

See the Land of Fire and Ice your way with Iceland Tours. Dive into a wide range of vacations to Iceland with fun-packed itineraries, flexible booking terms, and just a 5% deposit!

Choose from self-drive adventures, group trips, camping packages, multi-day tours from Reykjavík, and more. With such a wide selection, you’re bound to find the right vacation for you. We’ve got itineraries ranging from 3 to 19 days, all with accommodation and transport included.

Iceland’s great all year round too. Spot the Northern Lights in the depths of winter. Or see the midnight sun in the summer months. Whenever you visit, you won’t be short on things to see and do.

  • Transport and accommodation included
  • Add adventure activities like ice caving and kayaking
  • Start your trip on any day you like for most travel styles
  • Breakfast included on every day of your trip (except camping)

Don’t take our word for it

See what hundreds of fellow travelers have to say about their trips with Iceland Tours.

FAQs about vacations to Iceland

Is it worth going to iceland.

Yes, it’s absolutely worth going to Iceland! This volcanic island nation in the middle of the North Atlantic has got mind-bending nature in spades.

First up, there’s gushing geysers, steaming hot springs, and otherworldly lava fields. Then you’ve got thundering waterfalls , gigantic glaciers , and serene glacial lagoons. All these incredible sights are framed by Iceland’s beautiful mountains and fjords.

What exactly can you do on an vacation to Iceland? Here’s some of our suggestions:

  • Tour the Golden Circle and see the Strokkur geyser erupt
  • Join an ice caving expedition under an ancient glacier
  • Spot famous volcanoes and admire vast fields of lava
  • Stroll black sand beaches studded with diamond-like icebergs
  • See where the North American and European plates meet
  • Bathe in the warm, nourishing waters of the Blue Lagoon
  • Rent a car and drive the country’s Ring Road
  • Go on a whale watching boat tour and marvel at gentle giants
  • Hunt down the Northern Lights in the depths of winter
  • Enjoy the buzz of city life in Reykjavík , Iceland’s capital

Want more inspo? Check our complete guide to Iceland for all the material you need.

Is it safe in Iceland?

Yes! Iceland is one of the safest countries on Earth . Thanks to its extremely low crime rate and excellent healthcare system, you can relax and enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.

Around the country, you’ll see children left to their own devices to happily play outside or walk to school by themselves. Iceland is a fantastic place for kids to run wild, totally carefree! This means that the country is a great destination for a family trip.

Is Iceland expensive?

Iceland has a reputation as a pricey destination, but it doesn’t have to be! One trick to save money is to book an Iceland vacation package. That way, you don’t have to organize everything yourself either.

When you book a package with Iceland Tours, you get great value for money. All of our vacations to Iceland include:

  • Transport and accommodation
  • Detailed itinerary made by local travel experts
  • Free Wi-Fi in your car or on your bus
  • Access to our 24/7 helpline when you’re in Iceland
  • Breakfast every day (excluding camping trips)

If you choose an Iceland adventure package , you’ll also get activities like ice cave tours and lava caving built into the price. And Christmas and New Year packages even include some evening meals.

For more tips on how to save money on your trip, see this Iceland budgeting guide .

How many days do you need for an Iceland trip?

There’s no set number of days for a vacation to Iceland. Trips of different lengths will give you totally different experiences!

With 3–5 days in Iceland, you can base yourself in Reykjavík and join day tours to the Golden Circle or south coast . You’ll be able to see the top highlights of Icelandic nature and explore the city in the evenings.

If you spend around a week in Iceland, you could focus on touring a specific region in depth. For example, follow the south coast all the way to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon . Or head over to West Iceland and the Snæfellsnes peninsula .

This amount of time would also be enough for a Ring Road tour . That said, with 10–14 days in Iceland, you have the time to go slower and see more. As well as the Ring Road, you might want to include the lesser-visited Westfjords region .

With 2 weeks or more, you’ll have the time to see every part of the country, including the Westman Islands and highland interior.

What is the best month to visit Iceland?

The answer to this question depends on what you want to see! Iceland has tons to offer in summer and winter .

In the summer months of June , July , and August , days are longer and you can pack more into your itinerary. At the start of the season, you can see the midnight sun. Summer is the most popular time to visit, as the majority of attractions, as well as the highlands region, are open.

There’s more darkness in the winter months of November , December , January , and February . This provides the perfect backdrop for chasing down the Northern Lights . Winter’s also great for seeing Iceland’s frosty beauty.

If you want to visit at a quieter time of year, the spring shoulder season of March , April , and May is ideal. There’ll be fewer travelers about then, but still plenty to see! Toward the end of the season, Iceland is starting to turn green again.

The autumn shoulder season is September to October . While not as quiet as spring, it’s still more laid back than the summer. Winter hasn’t truly set in either, so most attractions are still fully open.

What kind of Iceland trips do you offer?

With Iceland Tours, you can choose from a whole bunch of travel styles. Our most popular are self-drive tours of Iceland , where you take the wheel of your own rental car. On a road trip, you can stop as often as you like and go wherever your heart takes you.

If you’d rather skip the driving, you can join a multi-day tour . You’ll stay in Reykjavík and take day trips by bus to different attractions out of town. If you want to take it up a level, you could go for a guided group tour . A dedicated local guide will lead your group around the country. A great way to make new travel buddies!

Alternatively, you could go for a private guided tour . Your very own driver-guide will use their expert knowledge of Iceland to show you all sorts of hidden gems.

At the other end of the scale are camping trips . You get a rental car and camping gear included, and you’ll sleep under the midnight sun. It’s harder to get much closer to nature than that.

Then there are day trips if you’re already in Iceland and want to add another experience to your itinerary.

Can I rent a car in Iceland?

To hire a rental car in Iceland, you’ll need to be at least 20 years old, or 23 years old for jeeps or vans. You’ll also need to have held your driver’s license for at least 1 year. To confirm the booking and pay your holding deposit, you’ll also need a credit card.

If you’re from the EU, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, you can drive in Iceland with your driver’s license from home.

For all the details, see our car rental page . And see our Travel Guide if you’re after tips on how to drive in Iceland .

What kind of accommodation do you offer?

For most travel styles, you can choose from 3 levels of accommodation:

  • Budget – Guesthouses and country hotels, with shared bathrooms
  • Comfort – Hotels or guesthouses of around 3 stars, with private bathrooms
  • Quality – Hotels or guesthouses of around 4 stars, with private bathrooms

With some travel styles, you might have more limited options available. For example, we only offer Comfort or Quality accommodation on our private tours of Iceland .

If you go for a camping trip , guesthouse or hotel accommodation is included for the nights you spend in Reykjavík. For the nights when you’ll camp, we provide you with a tent, sleeping bags, and all the other gear you need.

For all our guesthouse and hotel stays, breakfast is always included no matter which level you pick. Get more info about places to stay on this Iceland accommodation guide .

Are flights included with your packages?

So that you get the best deal and most flexibility, we don’t include flights with our packages. Once you have a rough idea of when you want to travel, you can start searching for flights to Iceland.

Thanks to its location in the North Atlantic, Iceland is well served by direct flights from lots of European countries and North America. If you’re coming from further afield, you’ll probably need a connecting flight.

How do I book with Iceland Tours?

Start your booking by checking out the Iceland vacation packages on this page. To narrow your search, filter by your preferred season, travel style, budget, and any attractions you want to see.

Click the heart icon to favorite any packages you’d like to come back to later. That way, you can compare itineraries to firm up your Iceland travel plans.

Once you’ve found the vacation for you, simply follow the steps on the package page to book online. On our website you can:

  • Choose your dates and add more days
  • Select your rental car* and accommodation level
  • Add extra activities and day trips
  • Pay a 5% deposit to secure your trip

If you need help with your booking, use the live chat option on our website.

*Applies to self-drive and camping trips only.

Can I choose my travel dates?

For the following travel styles, you’re free to choose any start date you like:

  • Self-drive tours
  • Camping tours
  • Multi-day tours
  • Private tours

The itineraries for these tours are of a fixed length, but you can add extra days in Reykjavík at the start or end of your trip at checkout. That way you can make your Iceland vacation last even longer!

Guided group tours have fixed departures. That said, we have a large number of dates on offer, both in summer and winter. So you’re bound to find one that works for you.

Can I customize my Iceland vacation?

Absolutely! Depending on which travel style you choose, you have different customization options.

For self-drive Iceland trips, you can pick your accommodation type and rental car. You can also add bonus activities to fill up your spare time, and more nights in Reykjavík to the start or end of your trip.

For Iceland multi-day tours, you can pick your accommodation level and add some extra activities such as a trip to the Blue Lagoon (if it’s not already included in your package). Extra nights in Reykjavík are an option here too.

Other travel styles, like guided group tours of Iceland, might have more limited customization options due to the nature of the trip. You’ll be able to see all the options available to you at checkout.

Good to know: Although we can’t guarantee stays at specific hotels or guesthouses, we’ll always make sure that you get the standard of accommodation that you pay for. Read more about accommodation types .

If you’d like to make further customizations than those that are available to you at checkout, get in touch and we’d be happy to help. The additional charge for this service is €150. Just so you know, it might not be possible to accommodate further customizations during the summer season. See our terms and conditions for full details.

When should I book?

As a rule of thumb, it’s best to book at least a few weeks before you plan to travel. For availability reasons, we’re unable to book trips with less than 1 week’s notice.

For the summer season, it’s a good idea to book a few months ahead of when you plan to travel. This is the most popular time of year to visit Iceland and places to stay can be limited in more remote areas.

If you’re planning to join a guided group tour, we recommend booking a few months in advance. Departures are on fixed dates and the most popular ones can get booked up.

Do I need a passport or visa to travel to Iceland?

If you’re a citizen of the EEA, you can travel to Iceland using your passport or national identity card visa-free. Otherwise, you’ll need a valid passport with at least 3 months left on it before expiry.

Citizens of many countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can travel to Iceland for up to 90 days visa-free. Check the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration’s visa-free travel list to find out if you’re eligible.

If you do need a visa, let us know once we’ve confirmed your booking and we can send you a confirmation letter for your visa application.

What should I pack for my trip to Iceland?

As its name suggests, Iceland can be quite a chilly country! That said, it’s warmer than many parts of the world on a similar latitude.

Of course, it pays to come prepared. So here’s a list of everything you should pack for an Iceland trip:

  • Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots
  • Thermal underlayers
  • Fleece or sweater
  • Waterproof rainjacket
  • Warm winter coat
  • Gloves, hat, and scarf
  • Sunglasses (both in winter and summer)
  • Swimming gear
  • Moisturizer and lip balm

The main thing to keep in mind is the wind. Although it’s milder in the summer, wind is a constant fixture of the Icelandic weather. With plenty of layers and skincare products though, it shouldn’t get in the way of adventure!

See this Iceland winter packing guide for more tips.

Explore ways to travel

Get inspired, midnight sun in iceland – your guide.

Get the lowdown on this natural phenomenon that takes place during summer in Iceland.

Iceland in Summer vs Winter

Which season is best to visit? Get the lowdown.

Sky Lagoon in Iceland – Your Ultimate Guide

Find out what's on offer at Reykjavík's trendiest spa.

13 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

Don’t miss these 13 best spots to go in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Iceland Complete Self-Drive Summer

iceland tour holiday 2023

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All Tours Operating Normally. Experience Iceland Safely: Current Volcanic Eruption Updates Here .

iceland tour holiday 2023

ICELAND TOURS & ADVENTURE HOLIDAYS

Small groups – big adventures.

Multiday Tours

Popular activities

Choose from iceland's most popular activities.

Snorkeling Tours

Snorkeling Tours

Glacier Tours

Glacier Tours

Northern Lights Tours

Northern Lights Tours

Ice Cave Tours

Ice Cave Tours

Sightseeing Tours

Sightseeing Tours

Golden Circle Tours

Golden Circle Tours

Snowmobiling Tours

Snowmobiling Tours

Hiking and Trekking Tours in Iceland

Hiking and Trekking Tours in Iceland

Popular day tours, choose from iceland's most popular tours.

Snorkeling In Silfra Fissure

Snorkeling In Silfra Fissure

Magical Auroras - Northern Lights Tour

Magical Auroras - Northern Lights Tour

Skaftafell Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour

Skaftafell Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour

Into the Glacier Experience

"Into the Glacier" Experience

Glacier Explorer - Moderate Glacier Hike in Skaftafell

Glacier Explorer - Moderate Glacier Hike in Skaftafell

Katla Ice Cave (Under The Volcano) Tour

Katla Ice Cave (Under The Volcano) Tour

Golden Circle Superior

Golden Circle Superior

Crystal Ice Cave Tour with Super Jeep Ride

Crystal Ice Cave Tour with Super Jeep Ride

Popular multi-day tours, secure your seat on iceland's most sought after vacation packages.

2 Day South Coast, Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour

2 Day South Coast, Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour

6 Days Around Iceland Adventure

6 Days Around Iceland Adventure

2-Day Tour to Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Borgarfjörður Fjord

2-Day Tour to Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Borgarfjörður Fjord

 3 Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour

3 Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour

5 Day Snæfellsnes Peninsula And South Iceland Tour

5 Day Snæfellsnes Peninsula And South Iceland Tour

7 Day Complete Iceland

7 Day Complete Iceland

4 Day - Golden Circle, South Coast, Ice Cave & Recently Erupted Volcano

4 Day - Golden Circle, South Coast, Ice Cave & Recently Erupted Volcano

8 Day Iceland Ring Road Tour

8 Day Iceland Ring Road Tour

Special offers.

Get up to 20% OFF for selected tours!

Glacier Experience - Sólheimajökull Easy Glacier Hike

Glacier Experience - Sólheimajökull Easy Glacier Hike

Adventure tour types, explore the wonders of iceland.

Multi-Day Tours

Multi-Day Tours

Day Tours

Guided Adventure Trips & Excursions in Iceland

Self-Drive Tours in Iceland

Self-Drive Tours in Iceland

Accommodation & Rental Car Included

Private Tours in Iceland

Private Tours in Iceland

Customize your tour for a truly unforgettable experience

Our New Tours in 2023

Experience something different this year.

Glacier Xtreme - Glacier Hiking & Ice climbing tour

Glacier Xtreme - Glacier Hiking & Ice climbing tour

Volcano Trail & Reykjanes Peninsula Tour

Volcano Trail & Reykjanes Peninsula Tour

Geysir Buggy Car Day Tour

Geysir Buggy Car Day Tour

Golden Circle & Hvammsvík Hot Springs Tour

Golden Circle & Hvammsvík Hot Springs Tour

Arctic Adventures electric minivan

Our Sustainable Values

Our mission statement is simply: “Nature is the adventure.” We have tailored our tours in such a way that there will be no harm to or impact upon nature. We show our clients how nature can be treated with respect, we can pass through it without leaving a mark and take away only photographs and memories.

1. Take nothing but pictures.

2. Kill nothing but time

3. Leave nothing but footprints.

4. Make nothing but memories.

Shuttle bus transfer in Iceland

Book your scheduled shuttle bus transfer with us. Bus transfers to and from Keflavík International Airport, Reykjavík and the Landmannalaugar.

Flybus  - Bus transport from KEF airport to Reykjavik

Flybus - Bus transport from KEF airport to Reykjavik

Bus To Landmannalaugar

Bus To Landmannalaugar

 Reykjavík - Blue Lagoon Transfer

Reykjavík - Blue Lagoon Transfer

Arctic Adventures is the biggest adventure tour operator in Iceland. Our primary goal is to utilize our passions and strengths to bring you an incredible experience and a long-lasting impression of our beloved country. We operate many of our tours from the headquarters in Reykjavik but also have operation locations in Skaftafell, Akureyri, Drumbó and Skagafjörður. Our roots lie back to the first rafting tour on the Hvítá river in 1983. We wanted to give others the same adventure we experienced and became the first adventure company founded in Iceland.

iceland tour holiday 2023

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Best 2024 Vacation Packages in Iceland

Best 2024 Vacation Packages in Iceland

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Geyser geothermal area is home to numerous stunning geological features, including Strokkur geyser.

Epic 14 Day Self Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland & the Westfjords

Exploring a natural ice cave is a unique experience only available between November and March.

Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

Godafoss waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls of north Iceland.

7-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

The midnight sun shines its gorgeous light upon the Diamond Beach in South Iceland.

Unforgettable 6-Day Summer Vacation Package with Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

One of the rivers made up of the meltwater of Eyjafjallajokull leads into the beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

6-Day Self-Drive Holiday in Iceland with the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

On a self-drive tour, you will have the freedom to explore Iceland at your own pace.

10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland with Top Attractions & Snaefellsnes

The aurora borealis shines above the countryside in Iceland.

Perfect 6-Day Northern Lights Vacation in Iceland

Skogafoss in summer becomes surrounded by greenery.

Epic 7-Day Summer Vacation Package with the Inside the Volcano Tour & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Summer packages provide a diverse set of options for those wanting to make the most of Iceland's awe-inspiring landscapes under the midnight sun.

Customizable 7 Day Summer Holiday Vacation Package of Icelandic Wonders

The amber light of the midnight sun fills the air during Icelandic summer nights.

Amazing 5-Day Summer Vacation Package in Iceland with Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & Golden Circle

Above a beautiful lake in Iceland, emerald and violet Northern Lights dance across the sky.

Breathtaking 6-Day Northern Lights Hunting Package of Iceland with Ice Caving

A person explores the icy wonder-world inside Vatnajokull glacier.

Scenic 4-Day Northern Lights Tour of Vatnajokull Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon & the South Coast

Hear the thundering noises of Gullfoss waterfall as water tumbles down 32-metres into an ancient canyon

10-Day Guided Tour Package of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland with Reykjavik

Lupins cover much of South Iceland in summer.

8-Day Summer Vacation Package Tour of the Best Attractions in Iceland

The winding roads of the Eastfjords.

Stunning 9 Day Vacation Package with a Guided Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland

The majestic Dettifoss waterfall in Northeast Iceland.

Magical 11-Day Ring Road Summer Vacation Package with Experienced Local Guide

The northern lights dancing in the sky in Iceland in winter.

Exciting Two-Week Northern Lights Winter Vacation in Iceland

The extraordinary Strokkur geyser erupting.

Family-Friendly Bundled Discount Tours of the Golden Circle & South Coast with Whale Watching

Mount Vestrahorn in Southeast Iceland.

Perfect 12-Day Adventure Package to Iceland with Ice Cave Tour

Pieces of ice floating in Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in the Southeast of Iceland.

All-Inclusive 5-Day Vacation Package in Iceland

Iceland's aurora borealis are its most famous and magnificent winter attraction.

Romantic 7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Getaway in Iceland with Ice Caving & Waterfalls

Svinafellsjokull glacier on the South Coast of Iceland from above.

Amazing 8-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour & Glacier Expedition in Iceland with Ice Caving

Puffins can be found in many of Iceland's coastal corners.

7-day Stress-free Vacation Package to Iceland

The northern lights in Iceland lighting up a snowy scene.

Relaxed 4-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour of Iceland with Day Trips from Reykjavik

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Arif Warsi Laskar

Arif Warsi Laskar

We booked this tour for our exploration to Iceland. We had a great experience with all the managements from airport pick up to the airport drop off. We did not need to stress about anything. Everything was well planned. All the tour guide were really nice. First day we went for northern light hunting with David the Guide. The tour guide, Christian made sure that we get to see the glimpses of this beautiful natural activity by constantly tracking the data from space observatory. I also get to know lot about aurora. Next day, we had one day trip for golden circle with Troll Expedition. Our guide Hinrick make this journey beautiful with his funny joke and good taste of music, and also we get know lot about the region. A special thanks to Hinrick. Finally, we travel for two days to south coast with Nice Travel. We stayed in remote village. It was an amazing experience. The accommodation provided by Guide to Iceland is very nice. First two days we stayed in Strom Hotel and the last night we spent in Hotel Klettur. I really want to thank the staffs of Hotel Klettur who helped me a lot.

Lisa Hassler

Lisa Hassler

We just returned from our trip to Iceland and it was fabulous! Guide to Iceland made the trip easy. For our planned activities, we chose to do a couple of geo thermal spas, snorkeling, snowmobiling, ice caving, and a helicopter ride. The suggested sightseeing along the way really enhanced the trip. We saw black sand beaches, museums, small fishing villages, waterfalls, icebergs and amazing scenery. The food was outstanding. I am vegan and the options, even outside of the city were inventive and delicious. The rest of our party ate signature dishes of Icelandic lamb and Arctic Char and lobster. We chose the comfort level for the hotels and we were very happy with the accommodations. A great trip - highly recommend!

Marcia Ludmila Magnetto

Marcia Ludmila Magnetto

Absolutely incredible. Pick up was very well organized and our guide, David, was perfectly on time. The tour itself was very well organized, with lots of clever information and facts. Great music too! Beautiful places, lovely food, and the best guide in Iceland. The weather made things a bit difficult but David took really good care of us and made sure we stayed safe, warm and having the most wonderful time ever. Without a doubt, my favorite tour in Iceland. 100% would highly recommend without a doubt.

Anastasiia Semenova

Anastasiia Semenova

Great trip! Bookings were easy to handle and the online support was very helpful. Amazing itinerary, although schedule was a bit tight. Keep in mind that if you book additional experiences, you might not have enough time to visit all the suggested landmarks. No northern lights spotted, but that’s just one more reason to come back:)

Traveling to Iceland in 2024 promises to be an incredible opportunity for travelers with an adventurous spirit and vacationers seeking relaxation. However you’d like to spend your time here, you’ll be doing so amidst some of the world’s most spectacular culture and nature during a brief window of time in which there will be smaller crowds and lower prices at the most desirable attractions. 

Your trip can be whatever you’d like it to be, whether it’s as part of a guided vacation package designed to give you the most opportunities to witness the Northern Lights or a series of smaller day activities. No matter which vacation package you choose, you can rest easy knowing you’re vacationing in one of the safest countries in the world.

Here, you’ll find our curated list of the best vacation packages Iceland has to offer in 2024. Whether you’d like to check out the sites located on the legendary Ring Road or relax in Reykjavik with some day trips thrown in, you’ll find the adventure you’ve been looking for.

Guide to Iceland has designed these packages to ensure you have the best possible experience during your stay. Tours, attractions, activities, and accommodations have all been chosen because of their quality and will be prepared and confirmed by Guide to Iceland before you arrive. We’ll focus on the logistics while you focus on having a great time.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best vacation packages in iceland for 2024, how long is the average 2024 vacation package in iceland, what are the cheapest vacation packages in iceland in 2024, what type of vacation packages are available in iceland in 2024, what’s included in the cost of my vacation package in iceland in 2024, where do 2024 vacation packages in iceland start, what is the best itinerary for traveling to iceland in 2024, what is the cancellation policy for my 2024 booking for a vacation in iceland.

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Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Explore an Ice Cave

Visit a Live Volcano

Visit a Live Volcano

Find the Northern Lights

Find the Northern Lights

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

South Coast Tours

We are currently experiencing high call volumes with longer than usual wait times. Please allow up to 24 hours for a callback during regular business hours. Save time and book online! Learn More

  • Tour Overview
  • Tour Highlights

Tour Dates & Pricing

Day itinerary, departure cities.

Choose Your Departure Year:

Discover Iceland’s best-known national treasures, mystical northern lights, ancient sagas, and unique traditions. Iceland is a land of fire and ice with ancient volcanoes and grandiose glaciers. Tour the “Golden Circle,” packed with jaw-dropping landscapes and natural wonders including Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Hot Springs, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruise Breidafjordur Bay and taste shellfish picked from pristine waters. We also indulge in the famous rejuvenating geothermal spa, Blue Lagoon, tour the capital of Reykjavik, stroll the halls of the National Museum of Iceland, learn about the northern lights and how to photograph them at Aurora Reykjavik, and search the night sky for magical auroras.

The Holiday Advantage

Leisurely

You can earn a $100 Travel Show Credit good for your next trip with Holiday Vacations by simply clicking the photo to watch the online travel show! The show is about 10 minutes long and at the end, you'll have the ability to submit your contact information and receive a travel credit which can be applied to this or any Holiday Vacations tour. Get started now!

EACC

Additional Tour Information

Your holiday vacations experience includes:, all accommodations featuring.

  • 1 night at Fosshotel Reykjavik
  • 2 nights in the Reykholt region
  • 1 night in the Hveragerdi region
  • 1 night in Reykjavík before we return home

Attractions & Highlights

  • Perlan Observatory
  • FlyOver Iceland
  • Aurora Reykjavik
  • Reykjavik city tour
  • Akranes Folk Museum
  • Deildartunguhver hot spring
  • Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls
  • Breidafjordur Bay cruise with Viking sushi tastings
  • Arnarstapi basalt cliffs and rock formations
  • Snaefellsjokull National Park
  • The Golden Circle of Natural Wonders
  • Efstidalur dairy farm
  • Fridheimar farm and greenhouse
  • Hveragerdi, the Hot Springs Capital of the World
  • Reykjanes Peninsula
  • Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa with included Comfort Package (beverage and silica mud mask)
  • Lake Kleifarvatn

12 Excellent Meals Featuring

  • Holiday Vacations Welcome Dinner in Reykjavik
  • Lunch at Fridheimar farm and greenhouse
  • Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner in Reykjavik

Please note: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

March 23, 2024 - March 29, 2024

Price Per Person

Final Payment Date: 12/19/2023

October 12, 2024 - October 18, 2024

Final Payment Date: 07/09/2024

November 9, 2024 - November 15, 2024

Final Payment Date: 08/06/2024

Day 1 : Fly to Iceland

Depart the USA for a restful overnight flight to Iceland.

Day 2 : Arrive in Iceland

We arrive early morning and enjoy a group breakfast. Afterward, we begin our exploration in the Land of Fire and Ice at FlyOver Iceland. Experience the ultimate introduction to this beautiful country with motion seating and a wraparound screen, simulating a flight over expansive mountains and glaciers. We also gaze upon the colorful, shimmering exterior of Harpa Concert Hall, take in beautiful panoramas of Reykjavik from the Perlan observation deck, and enjoy stunning views from the city’s best-known landmark, Hallgrimskirkja Church. Later, we check in to our hotel then gather for a fantastic Welcome Dinner and get to know our traveling companions.

Day 3 : Reykjavik

After breakfast, we’re off to enjoy more city sights of Reykjavik. Though one of the smallest capital cities in the world, it is brimming with adventures! Learn about the aurora borealis at Aurora Reykjavik and view Parliament, one of the oldest stone buildings in Iceland. Next, we descend under Whale Bay through an undersea tunnel to Folk Museum in Akranes where we view a vast collection of architecture, maritime exhibits, and artifacts. We then see Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver, which provides water and geothermal heat for much of the area. Today’s adventure concludes with visiting two incredibly unique waterfalls: Hraunfossar, several creeks cascading down a wall of lava rocks creating a spectacular display of colors; and Barnafoss, cutting deep through a narrow canyon and steeped in mystery and folklore. Before dinner together this evening, we check in to our hotel for the next two nights, the perfect location to hunt for northern lights dancing above.

Day 4 : Breidafjordur Bay

Following breakfast, we travel to Stykkisholmur, a gateway city to several islands in Breidafjordur Bay. We embark on a maritime escapade, passing by hundreds of tiny islands and viewing quaint fishing villages. Revel in the opportunity to experience Viking sushi, where a large selection of shellfish is pulled straight from the pristine waters for tasting. Arriving at Arnarstapi, we walk along incredible stacked columnar basalt rock formations. We then visit Snaefellsjokull National Park to gaze upon the variety of landscapes, from moss-blanketed lava fields to jagged cliffs and pebbled beaches. We bid the bay farewell, then head back to our hotel for dinner and relaxation. Tonight, we have another opportunity to discover the mysterious aurora borealis.

Day 5 : Golden Circle of Natural Wonders

Today is brimming with history and extraordinary marvels, starting with the Golden Circle of Natural Wonders. Experience the power of Gullfoss Waterfall as glacial water thunders down a rugged canyon and stroll through Geysir Hot Springs area, packed with bubbling mud pits and explosive geysers including Strokkur, which spouts water 100 feet into the air like clockwork. Another highlight is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s oldest ongoing parliament. Observe the dramatic landscape as it displays how the North American and Eurasian continental plates meet, creating geological phenomena such as bulging lava fields and glacial pools. We then learn about Iceland’s important dairy history while tasting regional delights at Efstidalur dairy farm, followed by a special lunch at Fridheimar farm. Afterward, we see how tomatoes are grown in greenhouses year-round and learn about the fascinating gaits of the famed Icelandic horses. We stay in the Hveragerdi region this evening and gaze upward for views of the spectacular aurora borealis.

Day 6 : Reykjanes Seacoast & Blue Lagoon

Rise and shine for a spectacular coastal drive along Reykjanes Peninsula, a UNESCO Global Geopark. Here we witness the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the only place in the world it is visible above sea level. Afterward, we visit Iceland’s most popular attraction, the Blue Lagoon. Soak in the mineral-rich seawater, naturally a constant 102°F. Don’t miss out on the included silica mud mask or experiencing the geothermal massage waterfall. We leave the Blue Lagoon feeling refreshed and energized. Lunch this afternoon is in the fishing town of Grindavik, followed by sights of Lake Kleifarvatn, uniquely filled entirely by underground water. Later, we return to Reykjavik and enjoy a Farewell Dinner.

Day 7 : Fly Home

We return home with fond memories of our adventures in Iceland.

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Iceland's Northern Lights

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Stories from Europe, Africa & the Middle East

Activity levels.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Tour days tend to be shorter in length, at a relaxed pace, and include lots of unscheduled time for leisure. Expect standing and walking for extended periods of time on flat surfaces, mostly low altitudes, and consistent temperatures.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Tour days usually move at a leisurely pace. Some days’ scheduled activities last longer than others. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on occasionally uneven terrain. You may experience changes in altitude or temperature.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Tour days tend to be long, move at a consistent pace, and may include long travel days. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on uneven surfaces. Some destinations may have changes in altitude and/or temperature.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Tour days tend to be long, move at a brisk pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

iceland tour holiday 2023

Very Active

Tour days tend to be long, move at a vigorous pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on rough surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

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ICELAND HOLIDAY PACKAGES FROM THE UK

Iceland is within easy reach of the UK by plane, so hop aboard and discover stunning glaciers, geysers and volcanoes. Make your trip hassle-free by choosing one of these Iceland packages from the UK. Speak to a travel consultant in Reykjavík or Edinburgh – email, live chat, or phone us on 0800 066 4730 .

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ICELAND HOLIDAYS FROM THE UK

Visit Iceland and you will find that it’s a place of stark beauty and incredible natural wonders. On these Iceland holiday packages from the UK, you could discover the majestic glaciers, roaring waterfalls, and sweeping black sand beaches for yourself.

When you book one of Nordic Visitor’s holidays to Iceland , you'll have a dedicated travel consultant based in Reykjavík to plan your itinerary. They will organise everything on your behalf, including handpicked accommodation and optional excursions, as well as providing personal recommendations for your trip.

Plus you can have peace of mind knowing that your travel plans with us are flexible. You'll be able to change your tour if you need to with our cancellation insurance.

Get in touch with our travel experts in Reykjavík or Edinburgh. Email, live chat, or phone us on 0800 066 4730 and we'll gladly plan your trip to Iceland.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

  • All bookings protected by our Package Travel insurance
  • Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
  • Support from our 24/7 helpline when you are travelling
  • Flexible & customisable tour options
  • Professional service from an Icelandic travel agency
  • Cancel or change your plans if you need to – we'll handle it for you

CALL US TOLL FREE

0800 066 4730.

Open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM (GMT)

JOIN A GROUP TOUR

Discover Iceland with like-minded travellers and an experienced local guide on a small group tour. Expect a maximum of 16 people per group, and top hygiene standards on your comfy minibus.

Scenic South Iceland

Geysers, volcanoes & glacier lagoon.

Level 2 (Classic)

Natural Wonders of Iceland

Winter highlights & northern lights, ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Level 2 (Moderate)

Northern Lights Circle Tour

Self-drive road trips.

Explore Iceland’s natural wonders at your own pace. Tour packages include a rental car with insurance included, accommodation, hand-marked maps, and top recommendations from local experts.

Iceland Full Circle Classic

South & west iceland classic, iceland complete classic, south iceland at leisure, popular in the uk: short breaks.

Multi-day tours give you the best of both worlds. Enjoy experiencing Iceland independently, with the option of adding guided excursions or extra activities to your trip. They are also ideal if you want to combine adventures in the countryside with a stay in Reykjavík or Akureyri.

Golden Circle Classic

Golden circle & blue lagoon, golden circle classic - winter, golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, best of south iceland, golden circle, south coast & blue lagoon, best of south iceland - winter, why choose nordic visitor.

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Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our cancellation insurance free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

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Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a leading travel agency with travel consultants based in Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavík. Our local experts live and breathe Iceland, and have in-depth knowledge of the locations and activities you'll want to include on your itinerary.

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Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your holiday arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event that the company experiences insolvency.

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Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

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Hassle-free experience

We take care of the details for you so that you can relax and enjoy your holiday. Your dedicated travel consultant will book your hotels, along with transport included in your tour, and any optional excursions that you have chosen. You’ll also get a travel guide with recommended attractions.

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You are in good hands

One of our Reykjavík-based travel experts is on call 24/7 to handle any unforeseen situations during your trip. Unexpected event or weather issue? No problem. We will get in touch and rework your itinerary, rearranging your accommodation and re-booking activities, while keeping you safe and informed.

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Customisable tour options

When you choose a flexible Iceland tour with Nordic Visitor, it’s easy to adjust your itinerary online. Add extra nights and choose from a curated range of activities to add to your trip. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, speak to one of our local experts about creating a tailored tour.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT HOLIDAYS TO ICELAND

The enchanting Land of Fire and Ice is easily accessible via direct routes from British airports. Fly from the UK to Iceland and prepare to discover the country’s incredible natural wonders for yourself.

Our Iceland travel experts have answered frequently asked questions about visiting from the UK. Read on for safety information, advice on how to get to Iceland from the UK, tips for what to do when you arrive, plus lots more.

CAN I TRAVEL TO ICELAND FROM THE UK?

Yes, Iceland is open to fully vaccinated visitors from the UK. Head to our Iceland Travel Update page to find out more.

It's good to know that Nordic Visitor has a flexible booking policy, so that you can make travel arrangements with peace of mind. Our  Book With Confidence  plan gives you the option to cancel or change your tour if you need to, and you will never lose the money you’ve paid to us. 

Rest assured your wellbeing is our number one priority, so you can  Travel With Confidence when you visit Iceland with Nordic Visitor. Now’s the time to start planning an unforgettable trip to the Land of Fire and Ice.

DO I NEED A VISA TO VISIT ICELAND FROM THE UK?

You don’t currently need a visa to visit Iceland from the UK if you have a British passport.*

If you’re unsure about your personal situation, we recommend checking the Government of Iceland London Embassy page . This is where you’ll find the most up-to-date information about whether or not you need a visa to visit Iceland as a tourist.

*Please note that this information is correct at the time of writing.

  • Is Iceland safe to visit? Read this blog for more information
  • Find out what thrilling things you can do on a trip to Iceland

HOW FAR IS ICELAND FROM THE UK?

London is approximately 1,896 kilometres (1,178 miles) from the capital city of Iceland, Reykjavík. This means that your flight time will be around 3 hours from London.

You can also fly into Iceland’s main airport, Keflavik International Airport, from a few other cities in the UK. Read on to find out which other British airports you can fly to Iceland from, and what the journey times are from each.

HOW LONG IS THE FLIGHT FROM THE UK TO ICELAND?

You can fly direct from the UK to Iceland in as little as 2 hours 20 minutes, depending on where you depart from.

Below you’ll find the approximate journey times between these UK airports and Keflavik International Airport :

  • Birmingham (BHX) - 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Bristol (BRS) - 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Edinburgh (EDI) - 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Glasgow (GLA) - 2 hours 20 minutes
  • London Gatwick (LGW) - 3 hours
  • London Heathrow (LHR) - 3 hours 15 minutes
  • London Luton (LTN) - 3 hours 10 minutes
  • London Stansted (STN) - 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Manchester (MAN) - 2 hours 45 minutes  

Find out more about  flights between the UK and Iceland.

  • Check out the top 15 things to do in Reykjavík on a city break
  • Read this helpful article for advice on how many days you need in Iceland

DOES NORDIC VISITOR OFFER PACKAGE TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes, if you book with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your trip is 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with the European Union’s Package Travel regulations. This means that you will get a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

DO THEY SPEAK ENGLISH IN ICELAND?

Icelandic is the official language of Iceland. It derives from a North Germanic language, similar to Old Norse, that has changed little since Iceland’s Viking history.

Most Icelanders speak English fluently though, since it’s a mandatory subject in primary schools. So although you don't need to bring a phrasebook, you might like to learn some of these basic words and phrases before you go:

Já = Yes Nei = No Góðan daginn / Góðan dag = Good day Gott kvöld = Good evening Hæ / Halló = Hi / Hello Bless = Goodbye Takk = Thank you

  • Get inspired for your next trip and check out these most popular holidays in Iceland
  • Look no further than these honeymoon and romance packages in Iceland if you’re seeking adventure with your loved one

WHAT IS THE BEST MONTH TO VISIT ICELAND?

Iceland has plenty to offer year round, so there isn’t one month in particular that stands out. The best time to visit Iceland really depends on where you’d like to go and what activities you plan on doing.

Throughout the year, changes to daylight hours mean that you can explore late into the evening under the midnight sun in summer. Meanwhile, winter’s long, dark nights are ideal for chasing the magical aurora borealis on a northern lights tour.

The country’s distinct seasonal changes give you the opportunity to discover Iceland in different ways, whether you visit in summer or winter.

If you head to Iceland during the summer months, you could:

  • Get up close to dazzling icebergs on a boat trip in the renowned Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
  • Take advantage of the calmer seas and go on a whale-watching cruise to try and spot these incredible creatures.
  • Visit remote regions of Iceland, like the highlands and Westfjords, while the weather is at its mildest.
  • Enjoy one of the many art or music festivals that happen throughout summer.  

On the other hand, winter in Iceland brings a different set of experiences for you to enjoy, including:

  • Seeing the northern lights dance in colourful arcs above Iceland’s stunning scenery.
  • Soaking up the lively festive atmosphere in Reykjavík around Christmas and New Year.
  • Joining guided snowmobiling and ice caving excursions on Vatnajökull and Kötlujökull glaciers.
  • Horse riding through beautiful snow-dusted countryside on a charming, yet sturdy, Icelandic horse.  

There are also plenty of top things to do in Iceland that can be enjoyed year round, like driving southern Iceland’s Golden Circle route.

While this is certainly a popular summer activity, it’s something that you might prefer to do in winter. With less visitors at this time of year, you’re more likely to have iconic places, like Gullfoss waterfall , Geysir and Þingvellir National Park , to yourself.

Another year-round activity that you’ll love is a visit to one of the many hot springs and geothermal pools in Iceland . Why not treat yourself to a trip to the most famous geothermal pool in the country? Picture yourself luxuriating in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon after a day of sight-seeing.

Check out these guides for more information about the weather, daylight hours and what to do in Iceland depending on the season:

  • Iceland's climate and weather conditions
  • Iceland's time and daylight hours
  • Iceland in summer: 12 things to see & do
  • Top 10 things to do in Iceland in winter
  • Check out these summer tours to Iceland from the UK
  • Browse this range of Iceland winter holiday packages

WHAT IS THE BEST MONTH TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND?

There isn’t one particular month that comes out on top for northern lights sightings in Iceland. That said, the best time of year to chase the aurora is during the Icelandic winter, from October to March.

Timing your visit to when the skies are at their darkest, for longest, is key to increasing your chances of seeing the northern lights.

This is because the long winter nights give you more opportunities for sightings. Plus, the shimmering aurora stands out more against the dark skies of winter, compared to the light summer nights.

The best time of day to see the northern lights tends to be later in the evening. So it’s worth noting that if you choose a northern lights excursion it will start in the evening, rather than during the day.

Want to make sure that you don’t miss out on a spectacular display while you’re sleeping? No problem, you can take advantage of the aurora wake-up service offered by many hotels.

You could benefit from the knowledge of a local guide by adding a northern lights excursion to your trip to Iceland. Or, if seeing the aurora is your main reason for wanting to visit, then we recommend a northern lights holiday package in Iceland .*

To find out more, we recommend reading this helpful blog about the best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland . You can also find additional tips and advice in this Iceland aurora borealis guide .

*Please note that northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so unfortunately sightings cannot be guaranteed on your trip.

  • What causes the aurora borealis? Find out on our experts’ blog
  • Discover the top 5 northern lights hotels in Iceland

WHAT DO I PACK FOR ICELAND?

Iceland is known for its changeable weather. In fact, the locals have a saying, “there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes”.

As such, warm layers and waterproofs are recommended, whether you are travelling in summer or winter. That way, come rain or shine, you can get out and about to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty.

Don’t forget to bring swimwear and sandals too. If you’re planning to indulge in the local’s favourite pastime of bathing in hot springs and geothermal pools, then these will come in handy. While you can hire a towel at some bathing spots, it’s best to bring your own for visiting smaller or more remote ones.

Below you’ll find a basic all-season packing list for your trip to Iceland:

  • Walking boots or shoes with good grip
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Insulated jacket
  • Woollen or fleece jumpers
  • Thermal base layers
  • Warm hat, scarf and gloves
  • Warm hiking socks
  • Quick-drying travel towel  

For more seasonal information on what to bring, read this  Iceland packing guide . You can also check out this blog on what to wear on your trip to Iceland for further tips and advice.

Scroll down to learn more about Nordic Visitor’s services.

— LOCAL SUPPORT & KNOWLEDGE

Get the most out of your holiday.

  • Relax knowing you can always reach us on our 24/7 helpline
  • Explore places handpicked for you by experts based in Reykjavík
  • Save time and effort with everything arranged for you
  • Have peace of mind with our cancellation insurance

Different ways you can experience Iceland

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Iceland below.

Guided Small Groups

Multi-day tours, privately guided, summer tours, northern lights packages, our services.

Whether you opt for a guided tour or a self-drive holiday, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents , and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognised for consistent, quality service.

Book with confidence

  • Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
  • Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
  • Enjoy personal service from Iceland-based travel experts.
  • We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.
  • 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
  • As a local agency, we work closely with trusted suppliers.
  • We’re a fully licensed and insured company in Iceland.

What do our customers say?

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Scott, United Kingdom

Iceland full circle classic - winter, november 2023, we had an amazing time.

We cannot recommend our tour enough. We had an amazing time and have already told friends and family about it. Iceland is an amazing place and I am sure we will be back and will use Nordic Visitor again!

James, United States

Iceland full circle classic, september 2023, experience of a lifetime.

I primarily wanted to use Nordic Visitor as a resource for creating our 14-day trip itinerary, to help weed through what seemed to be an endless array of choices, and to help us to get the very most out of our time in Iceland. Yes, we could have pieced it together ourselves but I needed an advocate in Iceland, an advisor, and maybe a resource for us if issues were to arise. That piece of mind was important to my wife and me and I'm glad we chose them to frame our trip. It made it much easier to piece in the parts that were important to us to see and experience. That allowed us to just enjoy the trip and not get bogged down in the details of planning each and every moment.

There are so many things I could say about our experience, an experience of a lifetime and after posting snippets of our trip on social media I have found that several friends of mine want to know how we planned this trip. I told them the same thing I am saying here, save a little money if you want and plan it yourself or trust a reliable source like Nordic Visitor and let them give you the trip framework and essential advice. I would do it the same way if I were doing it over.

Dean, United States

Highlights of the ring road - private, july 2023, went off without a hitch.

Everything was well-organised and went off without a hitch. The private guide was amazing. He could not have been better. I highly recommend him to anyone considering a private guide as an option. He's extremely knowledgeable about the history of the area. He knew all of the best places to go and was entertaining and delightful as well. Accommodation was all spectacular.

Christopher, Australia

Winter highlights - private, november 2023, warm and engaging guide.

Great tour. The sights are of course amazing and the tour made the most of our time, weather and our interests/priorities. Driver and guide David managed all of these very well. He was also very knowledgeable and personally warm and engaging. Could not have asked for more.

Jerine, Canada

Natural wonders of iceland, august 2023, perfect for solo traveller.

A beautiful itinerary, exceptional guide and perfect weather made this a trip I will never forget. Nordic Visitor made the process easy, and Iceland opened her arms. My 10-day small group tour was perfect for a solo traveller who wanted to see it all. 

Cynthia, United States

Best of south iceland, april 2023.

Working with Nordic Visitor was wonderful. Our travel consultant, Heddy, was quick to respond when we had a question or concern. She helped us plan a fabulous itinerary. Everything we booked through Nordic Visitor was fantastic. I have already recommended Nordic Visitor to friends, and I will continue to do so.

Kimberly, Canada

Iceland road trip, october 2023, trip of a lifetime.

Overall this was an amazing experience! A trip of a lifetime that I could never have planned myself. Any questions I had during planning were answered faster than expected and I felt safe and well looked after during the trip. Trip was smooth and hassle free.

Patricia, United States

Scenic south iceland, august 2023, 5-star experience.

Not only did we absolutely love every stop on the Scenic South Iceland tour, but prior to the tour we stayed for 4 days in Reykjavík. I appreciated Nordic Visitor's recommendations for things to do and places to eat there and felt highly supported by Marko, our travel consultant, in every regard to booking our flight and own hotel, day trips I was interested in, and taking public transport around. A definite 5-star experience!

Janice, United States

Winter highlights & northern lights, march 2023, i will certainly travel with nordic visitor again.

I cannot thank Nordic Visitor enough for providing me with a wonderful and memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything was seamless, from the pickup at the airport, to the excellent hotels, delicious food served and our friendly, knowledgeable guide, Jakob. Nothing was too much trouble - we all thoroughly enjoyed our experience in Iceland, and all came away with wonderful memories of many of the amazing sights of such a scenic country. We were even lucky enough to see the northern lights. I will certainly travel with Nordic Visitor again and would recommend them to anyone thinking about visiting the countries where they offer tours. Thank you Nordic Visitor!

David, Australia

Iceland full circle classic - winter, october 2023, many thanks to nordic visitor.

Absolutely amazing. No issues whatsoever. We saw it all from North to South and much of in between. From reindeer to whales and more beautiful waterfalls and volcanic bits than you could hope to see in a week. Every hour the scenery seemed to change dramatically. Just a great experience. Many thanks to Nordic Visitor.

Robert, United States

Romance around iceland, july 2023, best vacation we have had.

Everyone at Nordic Visitor were very responsive to all questions we had during our 30-year anniversary trip to Iceland. We had airline travel issues and the representative adjusted our itinerary so we were able to see the whole island. The accommodation were beautiful and everyone was so friendly. This was the best vacation we have had, we left Iceland relaxed!

Seth, United States

A new year's to remember, december 2022, an amazing and unique experience.

Our tour was great! Went for our honeymoon and it was everything we wanted. First night we got to see the northern lights which were fantastic! Second day, most certainly our longest, visited several sites (Geysire & Þingvellir) and went snowmobiling on a glacier. Such an amazing and unique experience. The walking tour around Reykjavik was surprisingly educational and our guide pointed out things that we ordinarily would have missed. The NYE dinner was delicious and going out to see the firework displays by (what seemed to be like) everyone was something. Practically had to dodge fireworks! Our 4th day was spent at the Blue Lagoon; perfect after a night of partying! Our last day was nice and relaxing, did some final shopping before we headed off to the airport. Hope to go back & visit Iceland again!

Flights to Iceland

Iceland’s largest airport, Keflavik International Airport, is around a 45-minute drive from the capital city of Reykjavík. Happily, you can fly here from a number of UK gateways.

Airlines serving Keflavik International Airport (KEF)*: British Airways : from London Heathrow (LHR)  EasyJet : from Bristol (BRS), Edinburgh (EDI), London Gatwick (LGW), London Luton (LTN) and Manchester (MAN) Icelandair : from Glasgow (GLA), London Gatwick (LGW), London Heathrow (LHR) and Manchester (MAN) Jet2 : from Birmingham (BHX), Edinburgh (EDI), London Stansted (STN) and Manchester (MAN) Play : from London Stansted (STN) Wizz Air : from London Luton (LTN)

We recommend checking directly with the airlines for flight availability and timetables. Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages.

See our Travel With Confidence page for more information about what we are doing to keep you safe on your trip.

*Details correct at time of publishing.

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Icelandic adventure.

Reykjavik Capital area

Welcome to the world’s northernmost capital! Reykjavík is the most gender equal, literate...

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is probably Iceland’s most famous attraction and has become considered a...

The famed hot spring Geysir is located in the Haukadalur valley in southwestern Iceland. It was...

How to get to Iceland

Find out here which airlines fly to Iceland.

What to pack

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all type..

Climate & weather conditions

How icy is Iceland? You might be surprised

Time & Daylight

When to expect sunrises, sunsets, northern lights ..

Get in touch with one of our Reykjavík-based travel experts. You can customise your tour of Iceland or ask us questions about Iceland package holidays from the UK. Our Edinburgh and Stockholm-based travel consultants are also ready to answer your questions about travelling with Nordic Visitor.

Ring us freephone on 0800 066 4730

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Is it safe to travel to Iceland? Latest advice amid volcano eruption

Tourists in Iceland have been evacuated from their accommodation following the fourth volcano eruption since December.

Icelandic police declared a state of emergency as a violent volcanic eruption continues to rock the Reykjanes Peninsula. 

The ongoing eruption is located 30km southwest of Iceland’s capital Reykjavik, close to Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction, the Blue Lagoon wellness complex and hotels. 

The attraction had reopened earlier this month, however, was forced to evacuate guests and temporarily close when lava began spewing from a new volcanic fissure on Saturday night. 

Flights to and from Iceland are unaffected by the eruption. Online flight tracker flightradar24.com shows planes have been arriving and departing without interruption at Keflavík International Airport, which is 10 miles to the north-west of the eruption.

Here’s what you need to know if you are booked to travel to Iceland – and your rights if you choose to cancel your trip.

Is it safe to visit Iceland?

The FCDO is not currently warning against travel to Iceland. Those heading to the region should “monitor local media for updates and follow the authorities advice on travel to the area,” it advises. 

Travellers should “check for alerts and advice from the: Icelandic Met Office , Safe Travel Iceland , Almannavarnadeild Facebook page and Twitter (@almannavarnir) .”

I’m in Iceland now – can I come home early?

That depends on your airline or tour operator. The FCDO is not currently warning against travel to, or around, Iceland, so your transport provider is not compelled to curtail your trip, nor offer a refund if you choose to head home early. As above, you should monitor the situation via the IMO’s official channels.

If you do change your travel plans, it is likely that you will have to pay for the privilege – though if you have a flexible ticket, the charge may be waived. Speak to your airline or tour operator directly, before you take any decisive action. 

Should I cancel my holiday to Iceland?

Unless the FCDO changes its advice to warn against travel to Iceland, or the area to which you are headed, it is likely that your holiday will proceed as planned. 

If you choose to cancel your holiday, it is highly unlikely that you will be covered by travel insurance.

Iceland holidays are currently going ahead as normal, says Georgina Hancock, Marketing Director of regional specialist Discover the World. “To date we have had to rearrange a few of our clients’ itineraries who were set to visit the Reykjanes area including the Blue Lagoon. They are all still travelling but will just be visiting other areas in south Iceland.”

An easyJet holidays spokesperson said: “Our holidays are currently going ahead as planned, however we are continuing to very closely monitor the situation and, should anything change, we will be in touch with our customers directly.”

Will I be covered by travel insurance if I visit Iceland? 

Yes, as long as the FCDO does not warn against travel to Iceland. If you are concerned, speak to your provider directly – and ensure that you keep the “emergency” phone number to-hand while abroad, in case the situation intensifies. 

Where is the Blue Lagoon – and is it safe to visit?

The Blue Lagoon wellness complex reopened to visitors on March 4, however following the latest eruption has temporarily closed. 

“Due to a volcanic eruption that commenced at Sundhnúkagígar on March 16, we have evacuated and temporarily closed all our operational units,” read a statement on the attraction’s website. 

The seismic activity is focused in the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system of the Reykjanes peninsula, in south-west Iceland. Svartsengi, where the Blue Lagoon is located, has experienced extensive earthquakes and land rise in recent weeks. 

The Blue Lagoon geothermal pool, Blue Cafe, Lava Restaurant, Retreat Spa, Spa Restaurant and the on-site Blue Lagoon Skincare store will remain closed through Tuesday, March 19. All guests with bookings during this temporary closure period will be contacted.

The wellness complex in Svartsengi, near Keflavik Airport, had been closed since November 9 due to seismic activity on the Reykjanes peninsula, before reopening earlier this month.

How long will the Iceland volcano risk last?

“There has been some discussion, led by the IMO, about this eruption being part of an uptick in activity that could see decades of increased activity,” says Matthew Watson, Professor of Volcanoes and Climate at the University of Bristol. 

“The evidence for this is the fact that there have been multiple eruptions along the same series of fissures in the peninsula in the last few years, and before that an 800 year gap.

“Looking at previous eruptions in the region, a single outburst typically lasts weeks to months: this is true of the three most recent eruptions on the peninsula, for example. Some eruptions in Iceland can last longer.”

Last year, residents of nearby town Grindavík were evacuated by Iceland’s Civil Protection Agency amid cautions of a “river of magma”, noxious gases and “fire fountains” in the area. 

The Reykjanes peninsula is a key tourism area of Iceland, home to Keflavik Airport, the nation’s busiest air hub, which is connected to Britain by easyJet, British Airways and other major airlines. 

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is located around 50km from the volcanic system. 

Will the Iceland volcano affect flights, like during the Eyjafjallajokull ash cloud?

The billowing ash cloud of Eyjafjallajokull volcano caused global travel disruption in spring 2010, amid worries that the particles and debris could damage aircraft engines. Commercial flights across Europe were halted for almost a week – leaving 50,000 flights grounded, and an estimated 10 million travellers stranded.

The disruption lasted for almost a week, causing the highest level of air travel disruption since the Second World War. 

Could this new wave of seismic activity lead to similar chaos?

No, because the activity is occurring beneath solid ground, not under a glacier, says Paavo Nikkola, Research Scientist at the Geological Survey of Finland GTK. 

“A volcanic ash cloud like in 2010 is not possible now,” Nikkola told Finnish broadcast organisation Yle. “Back then, the ash was generated by a large explosive eruption beneath a glacier.”

The region has experienced several eruptions in recent years, none of which affected flights,  advises a spokesperson from PLAY, a low-cost airline headquartered at Keflavik International Airport. “Iceland is no stranger to volcanic activity, with three eruptions having taken place on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the last two years and no disruption to flights. It has some of the most advanced volcanic preparedness systems in the world to safeguard the public and is well prepared for every eventuality.”

Are flights to Iceland being cancelled?

Online flight tracker flightradar24.com shows aircraft arriving and departing without interruption at Keflavík International Airport, which is 10 miles to the north-west of the eruption. 

The likes of Icelandair, easyJet and British Airways connect Keflavik, the nation’s major airline hub, with Britain – and it is a key stopover hub for transatlantic flights. It is the gateway to Reykjavik, the nation’s capital 50 minutes’ drive away.

This story was first published in November 2023 and has been revised and updated.

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A volcano spews lava and smoke as it erupts in Grindavik, Iceland on December 18, 2023 - REUTERS

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Jewel of Iceland: an elevated view over Reykjavík.

Sagas and geothermal swimming pools – Reykjavík moves to a different rhythm

Wild landscapes, distinctive architecture and child-friendly facilities also help raise the happiness levels of our writer on a stay in the Icelandic capital

I t is said that when Norse explorer Ingólfur Arnarson and his wife Hallveig Fróðadóttir threw some wooden posts from their ship in AD878 they floated to a bay covered with steaming springs, hence the name Reykjavík, or “smoky bay”, and that’s where Arnarson decided to settle. I am here researching women in Icelandic sagas for my next book, and our two small children have accompanied me, with their father sharing childcare.

We do the usual touristy tour around the Golden Circle , and the children pet Icelandic horses, swim in Iceland’s oldest geothermal bath and see the aurora borealis. But Reykjavík itself is an interesting, child-friendly city with much to offer. Our children especially enjoy the National Gallery of Iceland and learning about trolls and Viking history at the Saga Museum .

On a folklore tour they learn how to wake up zombies with 11th-century magic as we traipse through the enchanting Hólavallagarður Cemetery. Many prominent Icelanders, including Ingibjörg H Bjarnason, first female member of parliament, and Jón Sigurðsson, father of Icelandic independence, are buried here. One afternoon we take a taxi over to Bessastaðir, the President’s residence, on the Alftanes Peninsula. I have a meeting with the First Lady, Eliza Reid, and the children come along to have a tour of the buildings. This site was first settled in AD1,000 as a farm for Snorri Sturluson, writer of the famous Icelandic sagas. Consecrated in 1796, Bessastaðir church is one of the oldest cemented stone structures in Iceland, with a beautiful painted triptych altarpiece and stained-glass windows.

Pool with a view: a sunset soak.

We walk over a few times to Sundhöllin , one of the many swimming pools in Reykjavík. It is teeming with families, and free for children under 15. The children learn that it is perfectly OK to shower naked and bodies don’t have to be sexualised: a valuable lesson all young people should get.

A few months before arriving here I discovered that May Morris, a proponent of the Arts and Crafts movement and youngest daughter of William Morris, travelled to Iceland many times, first in 1922, sketching and writing about it. As I go around Reykjavík, I read about her travels and also make many sketches of the buildings, trying to give a language to my memories. One of the most elegant new buildings is the Harpa concert hall on the seafront, designed in co-operation with Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson. The glass-fronted building is like shards of basalt rising up, reflecting the colours of the sky and sea around it. Not far from here is the historic Höfði House, where Mikhail Gorbachev and Ronald Reagan famously met to decide the end of the Cold War in 1986. Some say it is haunted.

Rainbow Street, or Skólavörðustígur, is five minutes from Óðinsgata, where we are renting a small apartment. The street is painted in rainbow colours in support of Reykjavík Pride, held here annually since 1999, and the Eymundsson bookshop, the largest in the country, is also around the corner. Just up from this corner is the distinctive Hallgrímskirkja church, named after 17th-century clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson, its stepped concrete facade reminiscent of the Icelandic topography. We take a lift up the 74m tower, one of the tallest structures in the whole of Iceland, to the observation deck to see a stunning panoramic view of the city and its colourful corrugated iron houses.

Light and sound: the Harpa concert hall.

A small boat takes us across the bay to eerie Viðey island, only about 1.6 sq km in area and uninhabited since 1943. It is home to Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower , lit up every year on John Lennon’s birthday, and Milestones, an art installation by sculptor Richard Serra. Gunnar Gunnarsson, a renowned novelist, is buried in the church here.

According to the 2023 World Happiness Report, Iceland is the third happiest country in the world. It is easy to see why. Most mornings I walk across the bridge on the Tjörnin lake to work in the National Library. Even when the lake is completely frozen over, one corner is continually pumped with heated water for the 40-plus species of ducks and swans. This fact alone makes me so happy that I might have raised the happiness score of Reykjavík by several points. That, and the cardamom buns from BakaBaka bakery on Bankastræti, the best I have ever eaten. We mostly shop in Krónan supermarket and cook simple meals in our tiny kitchen. But the colourful Café Babalú is hard to miss for excellent breakfast crepes, and Reykjavík Roasters have the best coffees.

I am reading Louis MacNeice and WH Auden’s letters during their travels in Iceland where MacNeice writes rather wistfully: “Here is a different rhythm, the juggled balls/ Hang in the air – the pause before the soufflé falls/ Here we can take a breath.” I definitely feel like there is a different rhythm to the city, one where I can breathe more freely.

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