Iceland Holidays

Best time to go to Iceland

Consider your interests and what you hope to see most when deciding when to visit Iceland. Summertime in Iceland (June–August) is the perfect time to explore the beautiful landscapes, hike trails, and witness the Midnight Sun phenomenon, with temperatures ranging from 10–15°C. From December through February, the weather drops to a chilling -1°C to 4°C, making it the perfect time to experience the hypnotic Northern Lights and exciting winter pursuits like hiking glaciers and exploring ice caves. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are great times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds, enjoy mild temperatures (about 5–10°C), and see the beautiful landscapes as they change with the seasons.

How to get to Iceland

Most visitors fly to Iceland. Getting to Iceland from UK airports is straightforward. Several airlines operate direct flights from major UK airports like London Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester to Keflavík International Airport near Reykjavik. Flight duration typically takes around 2-3 hours. Upon arrival, travellers can easily access Reykjavik city centre via airport shuttles, taxis, or rental cars. Public buses also offer affordable transportation options. For exploring the island further, domestic flights, buses, and rental cars are available.

Getting around Iceland

Cars are Iceland's main mode of transportation, providing flexibility and access to remote areas. The Ring Road (Route 1) offers a scenic route around the island, while smaller roads lead to hidden gems. Public buses and domestic flights are available but may have limited schedules. Additionally, guided tours and rental vehicles are popular ways to explore Iceland's diverse landscapes, which include glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic terrain.

Things to do in Iceland

Discover Iceland's breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences:

• Golden Circle Tour: Explore geysers, waterfalls, and the Thingvellir National Park.

• Blue Lagoon: Relax in the soothing geothermal waters of this iconic spa.

• Northern Lights: Witness the mesmerising dance of the Aurora Borealis during winter.

• Glacier Hiking: Trek across glaciers like Vatnajökull for an unforgettable adventure.

• Whale Watching: Embark on a boat tour to spot majestic whales in the surrounding waters.

Activities for families in Iceland

Create unforgettable family memories in Iceland with these exciting activities:

• Whale Watching: Embark on a family-friendly whale watching tour and spot majestic marine creatures.

• Glacier Hiking: Explore the icy wonders of glaciers on a guided family hike.

• Puffin Watching: Take a boat tour to see adorable puffins nesting in their natural habitat.

Wellness in Iceland

Experience ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation amidst Iceland's stunning natural scenery:

• **Geothermal Spas: **Unwind in world-renowned spas like the Blue Lagoon or the Secret Lagoon.

• **Hot Springs: **Soak in natural hot springs scattered across the country for a therapeutic experience.

• **Yoga Retreats: **Join yoga retreats set against breathtaking backdrops, promoting wellness and mindfulness.

Nature & Outdoors in Iceland

Immerse yourself in Iceland's stunning natural landscapes:

• Glacier Hikes: Traverse icy wonders like Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier.

• Volcanic Exploration: Discover otherworldly terrain at places like Krafla Volcano and Landmannalaugar.

• Coastal Marvels: Explore black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs along the rugged coastline.

Top sights in Iceland

• Vatnajokull - Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajokull is a whole lot more than a slab of slow-moving ice. Tour mesmerising ice caves, rev up for snowmobile treks, and see the "diamond beach" with its tiny icebergs. It's ano wonder the glacier has been used in films like Interstellar.

• Skogafoss - Plunging 60 metres from a glacial plateau, Skogafoss is probably the most spectacular waterfall in Iceland. In a country packed with memorable cascades, that's saying something. It's a visual and sonic experience to remember at all times, but visit when the sun shines and you'll witness the waterfall's famous double-rainbow effect. It's unforgettable (and extremely shareable on social media).

• Westfjords - Located on a peninsular to the west of the island, the Westfjords is a self-contained array of natural attractions. In summer, you can swim at Rauðasandur beach, take a dip at Krossholt hot springs, or see the vast seabird colonies at Látrabjarg cliffs. The recreated Viking village at Þingeyri is a fascinating window into the past, while the area's capital Ísafjörður is a bewitching historical port with direct access to the desolate but beautiful Hornstrandir nature reserve.

• Visit the awe-inspiring Dynjandi waterfalls; Gullfoss, another enormous waterfall and canyon that is part of the acclaimed Golden Circle, a favoured route for hiking.

• Blue Lagoon: an extraordinary geothermal spa that is less than an hour's drive from the capital and maintains an average water temperature of 38 degrees Celsius.

Iceland offers a wide range of unique and authentic items that make perfect mementos of your trip. Here are some top recommendations:

• Icelandic Woolwear: Icelandic wool is renowned for its warmth and quality. Consider bringing back a cozy Lopapeysa sweater or other woolen accessories.

• Icelandic Skincare Products: Treat yourself to the renowned skincare products made with Icelandic ingredients like mineral-rich seaweed or healing thermal waters.

• Icelandic Liqueurs: Explore the local liquor scene and bring back a bottle of Icelandic schnapps or other traditional spirits.

• Handcrafted Jewelry: Discover beautifully handcrafted jewelry pieces inspired by Iceland's natural beauty. Look for designs that incorporate volcanic stones or symbols of Icelandic mythology.

What to eat in Iceland

Icelandic cuisine offers a delightful blend of traditional flavours and fresh, local ingredients. Indulge in:

• Grilled Icelandic lamb: Sample succulent lamb, a staple of Icelandic cuisine, often seasoned with local herbs.

• Skyr: Try this traditional Icelandic yoghurt-like dairy product, rich in protein and low in fat.

• Pylsur: Enjoy Icelandic hot dogs made with a blend of lamb, beef, and pork, topped with condiments like fried onions and remoulade.

• Fish stew: Savour hearty fish stew prepared with locally caught seafood, potatoes, and herbs, offering a taste of Icelandic comfort food.

Best time of the year to visit Iceland

If you're considering visiting Iceland with your family, summer is probably the best time to visit. The warmest weather for holidays in Iceland generally arrives in July and August, as well as long daylight hours. Both months are great for horse riding or waterfall excursions. However, if you're after cheap holidays in Iceland, off-season breaks are preferable. Try booking from January to May for cut-price accommodation. And if you want a romantic break, Christmas is an option, too. Sure, it's cold, but Reykjavik caters for a festive crowd with ice skating, markets, and exceptional food.

How to get to Iceland

Iceland is separated from the UK by 850 miles of the Atlantic Ocean, so there's only really one travel option: flying. Fortunately, flights arrive at Keflavik Airport from Edinburgh, Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Luton and Glasgow all year-round. Flights take around 3 hours 15 minutes, and when you book Iceland holidays deals can keep travel and accommodation costs low. So it's an easy destination to reach. Even better, there's no time difference between the UK and Iceland.

Iceland is known for

Seafaring Vikings, bloody sagas, the Northern Lights, cosy sweaters, the music of Bjork, courageous footballers - Iceland means a lot of things to different people. But the nation is probably most famous among travellers due to its exquisite coastline, glaciers, and waterfalls, as well as its thermal pools, and almost treeless, otherworldy environment. Nowadays, you can add in a globally-respected food culture and a cosmopolitan culture which makes every visitor feel right at home. So it's a destination with plenty to offer, that's for sure.

Hiking in Iceland

Hiking in Iceland offers unparalleled experiences:

• Laugavegur Trail: Trek through stunning landscapes, passing hot springs and colourful mountains.

• Snæfellsjökull National Park: Explore diverse terrain, including lava fields and coastal cliffs.

• **Thorsmork: **Wander amidst lush valleys and glacier-carved landscapes with breathtaking views of Eyjafjallajökull.

With trails for all levels of hikers and landscapes straight out of a fantasy, Iceland beckons adventurers to explore its untamed beauty on foot.

Cycling in Iceland

Cycling in Iceland presents unique opportunities:

• Ring Road: Embark on an epic journey around the island, encountering volcanic landscapes and stunning coastal vistas.

• Reykjanes Peninsula: Explore rugged terrain, geothermal areas, and dramatic cliffs.

• Golden Circle: Pedal past iconic landmarks like Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall.