The Best Ways to Travel Around Iceland

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How to Travel Around Iceland

Iceland is a land of fire and ice, with its dramatic landscapes ranging from snow-capped mountains to steaming volcanoes and glistening glaciers. It’s no wonder that this country has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. But with its remote location and challenging terrain, planning a trip to Iceland can be daunting.

This guide will help you plan your perfect trip to Iceland, from choosing the right time to go and finding the best places to visit, to getting around and staying safe. So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, read on for all the information you need to know about traveling around Iceland.

How To Travel Around Iceland? Method Pros & Cons
Car Rent a car and drive yourself around Iceland. This is the most flexible option, as you can go at your own pace and stop wherever you want. However, it can be expensive, especially if you’re renting a car for multiple days.
  • Flexibility
  • Stop wherever you want
  • Expensive
  • Can be difficult to navigate
Bus Take a bus tour around Iceland. This is a more affordable option than renting a car, and you’ll be able to see some of the country’s most popular attractions. However, you’ll be limited to the tour schedule and won’t have as much freedom to explore.
  • Affordable
  • See popular attractions
  • Limited to tour schedule
  • Less freedom to explore
Touring company Hire a tour company to take you around Iceland. This is the most expensive option, but you’ll get a personal guide and will be able to see some of the country’s most remote and hidden gems.
  • Personal guide
  • See remote and hidden gems
  • Expensive
  • Less freedom to explore

Iceland is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors. From its stunning scenery to its rich culture, there’s something for everyone in Iceland. However, getting around Iceland can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the country.

This guide will help you plan your trip to Iceland by providing information on the different transportation options available, as well as tips on choosing the right accommodation for your needs. We’ll also cover how to get around Iceland’s major cities and towns, and how to get to and from popular tourist destinations.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-informed on how to travel around Iceland and you’ll be able to plan your trip with confidence.

Transportation

There are a few different ways to get around Iceland, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best option for you will depend on your budget, the amount of time you have, and the places you want to visit.

Flights

The most common way to get to Iceland is by flying. There are direct flights to Iceland from a number of cities in Europe, North America, and Asia. The main international airport in Iceland is Keflavk International Airport (KEF), which is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Reykjavk.

Airfare to Iceland can be expensive, especially during peak season (June-August). However, there are often deals to be found if you book your flight in advance.

Buses

Once you’re in Iceland, the best way to get around is by bus. The national bus company, Strt, operates a comprehensive network of buses that cover all major towns and cities in Iceland. Buses are generally comfortable and reliable, and they’re a great way to see the countryside.

Rental Cars

Renting a car is another option for getting around Iceland. This is a good option if you want to have more flexibility and freedom to explore the country at your own pace. However, it’s important to note that driving in Iceland can be challenging, especially in winter. The roads are often narrow and winding, and there are a lot of sheep and other animals on the road.

Ferries

There are also a number of ferries that operate in Iceland. These ferries can be used to travel between the different islands in the country, as well as to reach some of the more remote areas.

Tips for Choosing the Right Transportation Option

When choosing the right transportation option for your trip to Iceland, there are a few things you need to consider.

  • Your budget: The cost of transportation can vary significantly, so it’s important to factor this into your decision.
  • The amount of time you have: If you’re only in Iceland for a short time, you may want to consider taking a bus or a ferry, as these options are faster than driving.
  • The places you want to visit: If you’re planning on visiting a lot of different places, you may want to consider renting a car, as this will give you the most flexibility.

How to Get Around Iceland’s Major Cities and Towns

The main cities and towns in Iceland are all well-connected by public transportation. In Reykjavk, you can get around by bus, tram, or taxi. In other cities and towns, you can usually get around by bus or taxi.

How to Get to and from Popular Tourist Destinations

The most popular tourist destinations in Iceland are all well-connected by public transportation. You can get to these destinations by bus, ferry, or air.

Accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options available in Iceland, including hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and camping. The best option for you will depend on your budget, the amount of time you have, and the type of experience you’re looking for.

Types of Accommodation Available in Iceland

  • Hotels: Hotels are the most expensive accommodation option in Iceland, but they also offer the most amenities. Most hotels in Iceland have restaurants, bars, and other facilities.
  • Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a less expensive option than hotels, but they still offer a good level of comfort and amenities. Guesthouses are often located in more central locations than hotels.
  • Hostels: Hostels are the most budget-friendly accommodation option in Iceland. Hostels offer shared rooms and basic amenities.
  • Camping: Camping is a great option for budget travelers who want to experience the great outdoors. There are a number of campgrounds in Iceland, both in the countryside and near major cities.

Tips for Choosing the Right Accommodation

When choosing the right accommodation for your trip to Iceland, there

Activities

Iceland is a land of contrasts, with its dramatic scenery, stunning natural wonders, and vibrant culture. There are endless things to do in Iceland, from exploring its glaciers and volcanoes to hiking in its national parks. Here are a few of the most popular activities:

  • Sightseeing. Iceland is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, and there are plenty of ways to see it. You can take a road trip around the Ring Road, which circumnavigates the entire country, or you can go on a guided tour of some of the country’s most popular attractions. Some of the most popular sights include:
  • The Golden Circle. This popular day trip takes you to three of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and ingvellir National Park.
  • Jkulsrln Glacier Lagoon. This glacier lagoon is home to icebergs that calve off of the nearby Breiamerkurjkull glacier. You can take a boat tour of the lagoon or go glacier hiking on the glacier itself.
  • Skgafoss Waterfall. This waterfall is one of the most popular in Iceland, and it’s easy to see why. It’s located just off the Ring Road, and it’s a beautiful sight to behold.
  • ingvellir National Park. This national park is home to Iceland’s first parliament, which was founded in 930 AD. It’s also located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
  • Hiking. Iceland has some of the best hiking trails in the world, and there are trails to suit all levels of experience. You can hike through lush forests, past waterfalls, and across glaciers. Some of the most popular hiking trails include:
  • rsmrk. This valley is located in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands, and it’s home to some of the most challenging hiking trails in the country.
  • Laugavegurinn. This 55-kilometer (34-mile) trail is one of the most popular in Iceland, and it takes you through some of the country’s most stunning scenery.
  • Snfellsjkull National Park. This national park is home to Snfellsjkull glacier, which is one of the most active volcanoes in Iceland. You can hike up to the glacier or take a boat tour of the surrounding area.
  • Fishing. Iceland is a great place to go fishing, and you can catch a variety of fish, including salmon, trout, and char. There are plenty of places to go fishing in Iceland, and you can either go on a guided tour or fish on your own. Some of the best places to go fishing include:
  • The Westfjords. This region is home to some of the best salmon fishing in Iceland.
  • Lake Mvatn. This lake is home to a variety of fish, including trout, char, and grayling.
  • The Jkulsrln Glacier Lagoon. This glacier lagoon is home to a variety of fish, including arctic char and arctic cod.
  • Skiing. Iceland is a great place to go skiing, and you can ski on glaciers, volcanoes, and even in the city. There are plenty of ski resorts in Iceland, and you can either go on a guided tour or ski on your own. Some of the best places to go skiing in Iceland include:
  • Vatnajkull National Park. This national park is home to some of the largest glaciers in Iceland, and it’s a great place to go skiing.
  • Hlarfjall. This ski resort is located just outside of Reykjavik, and it’s a great place to go skiing if you’re short on time.
  • Langjkull. This glacier is located in the west of Iceland, and it’s a great place to go skiing if you’re looking for a challenge.

Tips for Planning Your Activities

When planning your activities in Iceland, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, consider your interests and budget. There are plenty of activities to choose from in Iceland, so you’ll need to decide what you want to do and how much you’re willing to spend. Second, factor in the weather. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to plan your activities accordingly. Third, consider the time of year you’re visiting. Iceland’s tourist season runs from May to September, so things can get busy during this time. If you

How do I get around Iceland?

There are a few different ways to get around Iceland, depending on your budget and time constraints.

  • By car: The most popular way to get around Iceland is by car. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and stop whenever you want. You can rent a car from one of the many car rental companies in Iceland.
  • By bus: There are also a number of bus companies that offer tours around Iceland. This is a good option if you don’t want to drive or if you’re on a tight budget.
  • By plane: You can also fly between different cities in Iceland. This is the fastest way to get around, but it can be expensive.
  • By ferry: There are also a few ferries that run between different parts of Iceland. This is a good option if you’re traveling between the Westfjords and the rest of Iceland.

What is the best time to visit Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to do. The summer months (June to August) are the most popular time to visit, as the weather is warm and sunny. This is a good time to go hiking, camping, and exploring the country’s natural wonders. However, it is also the most crowded time of year, so prices are higher and accommodation can be difficult to find.

The shoulder seasons (May and September) offer a good compromise between weather and crowds. The weather is still mild, but there are fewer tourists.

The winter months (October to April) are the coldest and snowiest time of year. This is a good time to go skiing and snowboarding, but it is not recommended for those who don’t like the cold.

What are the must-see attractions in Iceland?

There are many must-see attractions in Iceland, including:

  • The Golden Circle: The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that takes in three of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and ingvellir National Park.
  • Jkulsrln glacier lagoon: Jkulsrln is a glacier lagoon located in southeast Iceland. It is home to a variety of icebergs, some of which are over 100 feet tall.
  • Snfellsjkull glacier: Snfellsjkull is a glacier-capped volcano located on the Snfellsnes peninsula. It is one of Iceland’s most popular hiking destinations.
  • rsmrk: rsmrk is a highland valley located in the south of Iceland. It is known for its beautiful scenery and hiking trails.
  • Reykjavk: Reykjavk is the capital of Iceland and is home to a variety of museums, art galleries, and restaurants.

What is the best way to experience Icelandic culture?

There are a few different ways to experience Icelandic culture, including:

  • Visiting a museum: There are a number of museums in Iceland that offer a glimpse into Icelandic history and culture. Some of the most popular museums include the National Museum of Iceland, the rbr Open Air Museum, and the Icelandic Folk Museum.
  • Going to a concert: Iceland has a vibrant music scene, with a wide variety of genres to choose from. Some of the most popular Icelandic bands include Sigur Rs, Bjrk, and Of Monsters and Men.
  • Attending a cultural event: There are a number of cultural events held in Iceland throughout the year, such as the Reykjavk Culture Night, the Iceland Airwaves Music Festival, and the Secret Solstice Festival.
  • Meeting locals: The best way to experience Icelandic culture is to meet the locals. Icelanders are friendly and welcoming people, and they are always happy to share their culture with visitors.

What are some tips for traveling to Iceland?

Here are a few tips for traveling to Iceland:

  • Pack for all weather conditions: The weather in Iceland can change quickly, so it is important to pack for all weather conditions. This includes warm clothes, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy shoes.
  • Get travel insurance: Iceland is a safe country to travel to, but it is always a good idea to get travel insurance just in case.
  • Learn some basic Icelandic phrases: Learning a few basic Icelandic phrases will help you get around and communicate with locals. Some of the most useful phrases include “hello,” “thank you,” “please,” and “goodbye.”
  • Be respectful of Icelandic culture: Icelanders are a proud people with a rich culture. It is important to be respectful of their customs and traditions.

Iceland is a beautiful and unique country that offers a wide variety of travel experiences. Whether you’re looking for stunning scenery, exciting activities, or fascinating culture, you’re sure to find it in Iceland.

This guide has provided you with everything you need to know to plan your own trip to Iceland. From choosing the right time to go and where to stay, to what to see and do, we’ve covered it all.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Iceland today!

Key Takeaways

  • The best time to visit Iceland is between May and September.
  • The most popular tourist destinations in Iceland include Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast.
  • There are a variety of ways to get around Iceland, including by car, bus, and plane.
  • Iceland is home to a wide variety of stunning scenery, including glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
  • Iceland is also a great place to experience a variety of exciting activities, such as hiking, skiing, fishing, and whale watching.
  • Iceland has a rich culture and history, which is reflected in its food, music, and art.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.