Things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland: Discover this natural wonder

Iceland is still a hidden gem and perfect trip on its own or as a stop over to Europe. The capital Reykjavik has only 120,000 inhabitants which makes it like a small town for most nationals. But within it and its surrounds are an abundance of things to do and see.

Here are just some of the activities we can arrange for you – you only need about a week if you want to do it all with time left over for leisure. Or take your time and immerse yourself in the Icelandic way of life.

South Coast: Fire & Ice - Waterfalls, Glaciers & Icelandic Volcano

Ride from Reykjavik and journey to the south of Iceland. Stop to see the majestic Skógafoss waterfall. Walk along the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, and reach Vik I Myrdal, the southernmost tip of the country. Visit hidden waterfalls on the way back, one underneath the Volcano Eyjafjallajökull. Pass the Hellisheiðarvirkjun geothermal power plant that supplies the capital's energy and travel through the mountain pass. Capture the ocean view and see the ice cap of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, with a chance to spot the Westman Islands. Arrive at the stunning Skógafoss waterfall, known for its appearance in Game of Thrones.

Visit one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world, the Reynisfjara black sand beach. You can view the basalt columns and hear the intriguing stories and sagas that are connected to this amazing place. Reach the southern tip of the country, Vik I Myrdal. Ask us about taking you to a charming fishing village and a quaint local church only locals know about. We also recommend seeing the Sólheimajökull glacier and exquisite Seljalandsfoss waterfall, tucked underneath the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano. Be sure to walk behind it and visit its hidden cousin, Gljúfrabúi, before heading back to Reykjavik.

Golden Circle, Kerid Volcanic Crater, and Blue Lagoon Day Trip

Get the most from a day in Iceland on an 11-hour tour from Reykjavik that covers the Golden Circle, Kerid crater, and Blue Lagoon. View the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates at UNESCO-listed Thingvellir, see the geysers and pools at Geysir, and admire the Gulfoss Waterfall. In addition, visit the lake-filled Kerid volcanic crater, and finish by bathing in the warm Blue Lagoon (own expense). We can arrange the whole thing for you, including pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

Whale Watching Cruise

Experience the magic of whale watching on a cruise from Reykjavik. We can arrange a knowledgeable guide, who will take you on a cruise the coastal curve of Iceland to marvel at humpback and orca whales in their natural habitat. Scour the sea for sightings of porpoises and dolphins as you listen to fascinating facts surrounding the majestic creatures that inhabit the Icelandic Ocean. Heighten your chances of seeing whales on this tour, the success rates of which are 95% in summer and 80% in winter.

Northern Lights Tour

Spotting the northern lights is notoriously tricky. Greatly increase your chances on this tour from Reykjavík that takes you out into the countryside and away from the light pollution of the city. The exact location of the tour depends on each night's weather conditions and forecast but be confident that your experience aurora-hunter guides will find the most optimal spot to see the magical light show. A must see if in this part of the world!

Icelandic Traditional Food Tour

Finding authentic places to eat can be tricky in an unfamiliar place. Take the guesswork out of your visit to Reykjavík on this guided walking tour that takes you to a multitude of eateries around the capital, including the city's oldest restaurant and a much-loved hot dog stand. ETAV can arrange a small tour where you will learn about Iceland's culinary history and traditions as you sample such dishes as Icelandic meat soup, skyr, and lobster soup.

Our travel consultants would be more than happy to design you a holiday which incorporates all or some of the above activities, arranging pick up and drop off from your hotel and expert tour guides to take you around. Chat to us today about the best things to do in Iceland or any other European city you wish to see.