Beginner's Guide to Iceland

Greater Reykjavík Area

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Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland is a positively vibrant city, full of unique architecture, cultural and educational attractions, entertainment, and so much more. It is considered the key place that any visitor needs to experience in Iceland. It is much like any other large European city yet sometimes even richer because of the valued heritage so distinctively Icelandic (for Icelanders are immensely proud of their Viking heritage, freedom, and language; and they strive to make each of their cities demonstrate that pride). In fact, Reykjavík has been named by some as Europe’s hottest capital. In year 2000, Reykjavík was even named European City of Culture – a title which is not only an honor to receive but also is indicative of the type of personality Reykjavík has.

Not only is Reykjavik a progressive city, full of life and growth, but it is also a beautiful place surrounded by incredible displays of nature found few places in the world. Because of this, Reykjavik could be the perfect place for a vacation whether you’re looking for spontaneity and excitement or a serenity-filled vacation where you can simply relax.

In addition to being a wonderful vacation spot, Reykjavík is also a fantastic place to live. It is home to about 170,000 including the surrounding suburbs and has a gorgeous view of both the mountains and the Atlantic on all sides. Its residential suburbs include Árbær, Breiðholt and Grafarvogur; its towns are Seltjarnarness, Kópavogur, Hafnarfjörður, Garðabær, Bessastaður and Mosfellsbær.

Southern Iceland

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The southwestern part of Iceland includes everything south and east up until Myrdalsjökull, while Southeastern Iceland continues further east with Kirkjubæjarklaustur as the western entry point and Höfn the eastern. Southwestern Iceland is the most convenient area of travel for visitors coming from Reykjavik and is home to many of the famous natural sights in Iceland – waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, and even unadorned yet magnificent farmland. Southeastern Iceland is primarily made up of the Vatnajökull (a glacier) which has lakes, volcanoes, and more.

Southern Iceland has only a few fishing ports on its coast but does feature the Skaftafell National Park and the Jökulsá Lagoon, as well as an airport and many quaint villages that are lovely to visit. A very popular tourist attraction is also the erupting volcanoes. While this may sound quite threatening, it is really a generally safe process to watch and can be an experience never forgotten.

Northern Iceland

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The second biggest city in Iceland – Akureyri – is located in the northeast of the country and is a very popular tourist stop. Many of the cities in Northern Iceland (which includes Northeastern Iceland) are wonderful locations for relaxing vacations and nature-viewing opportunities. For example, Europe’s biggest waterfall as well as one of Iceland’s most stunning falls and the surrounding bodies of water (Húnafloi and Skagafjöður are two of the largest in the area) are all excellent options for anyone in the north of Iceland.

Northern Iceland is also a point from which you can set out by boat or plane to reach Grimsey Island, part of the country that is not connected to the main island but rather sits on the Arctic Circle. Or if you prefer to focus your attention on studying Iceland and discovering its origins and what its early centuries must have been like, Northern Iceland is the perfect place for you to begin your pursuit. With historical sites and tiny town sprinkled all along the coast, you’ll get quite a detailed picture of Iceland’s pre-freedom days. Some great options for cities to stop in are Hólar, Hofsós, Glaumbær, and Víðimýri.

Eastern Iceland

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While it may not be the perfect vacation stop for those who are looking for quick access into big cities and a vibrant nightlife, Eastern Iceland is still an incredible portion of this country that offers something wonderful, albeit different, to its citizens and tourists. Imagine spacious forests backed up to enormous mountains and rugged fjords, and around this natural wilderness lie diminutive homes and fishing villages like Eskifjörður. This picture is exactly what Eastern Iceland exists as, a huge portion of the country packed with natural wonders.

The center of Eastern Iceland is the little village Egilsstaðir, where there is a small airport that brings in travelers from Reykjavik. The region extends north to Bakkafjörður and south to Djúpivogur. Eastern Iceland, though not as easily reached and traveled as some of the other regions, will certainly be worth your trip. Try some locations like the Easter Fjords and the charming little town of Seyðisfjörður.

Western Iceland

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The area in the west of Iceland discussed here includes not only the region “Western Iceland” but also the West Fjords. For those unfamiliar with fjords, they are deep inlets that run between two steep slopes. The West Fjords is an area filled with fjords, water, mountains, glacier, and tiny villages that have been all but cut off from the influences of the rest of the country and the world. Though the scenery is breathtaking and the area quite educational (as you gain the opportunity to get a glimpse of this isolated but beautiful life of these Icelanders and what the original Viking settlements looked much like), few travelers make it to Western Iceland, though some of the adventurous do realize the value in such a trip and make it a point to visit.

The entire west area of Iceland includes villages like Ísafjörður – the main town in the West Fjords – as well as Hólmavík and Patreksfjörður, and Ólafsvík, and Stykkishólmur – two major towns in Western Iceland. Some of the other areas definitely worth a visit are the Snæfellsnes peninsula, the Dalir region, and Breiðafjörður.

Iceland - A One Week Itinerary Overview

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Spending a week-long vacation in Iceland can be quite rewarding; there is much to do and see, and you will surely be able to fill your itinerary with as much as you desire. Some of the ways that you can use your time in Iceland are:

• As a week-long educational trip. Learn more about the history of Iceland, the physical environment and its effects on the people, or the natural wonders like glaciers and volcanoes.
• As a week-long shopping spree. Take advantage of the tax-free shopping, Iceland’s fashion awareness, and the great shops full of have-to-haves during your week in the country.
• As a week of music. See new bands, party all night, and take in the culture by day at the world-renowned Iceland Airwaves festival.
• As a week of spas. Experience the relaxation and comfort that can be found in the natural spas that are located all across the island and warmed by the natural geothermal power.
• As a week-long horse-riding holiday. Use your equestrian experience for an adventure of a lifetime – an exploration of Iceland on horseback.

A Week-Long Educational Iceland Trip

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One great reason to go to Iceland is to learn. The country is full of educational resources: Nature and the Icelandic heritage are two examples. Whether you want to learn more about volcanoes or do a sociological study, Iceland may be the place to do it. Here are some of the ways that you can gain knowledge while on a week-long trip to Iceland:

• Glaciers. See glaciers in person, and learn about how these incredibly pieces of nature form and operate, how other forces like climate and volcanoes affect (and are affected by) glaciers, and how the glaciers retreat. The western fjords and many bodies of water may be part of this trip.
• Volcanoes. Visit some of the Icelandic volcanoes, and discover how they form and where, how they act, and what sots of forms are often caused by the volcanic process. Also see the geothermal plants and lava tubes.
• Iceland. Learn about both the history and the environment in Iceland by studying the culture and the landscape. Learn how the people have changed the land and how the climates and environmental changes have impacted Icelanders. Geysers and hot springs can be part of this trip or others. Also visit farming and fishing centers on the island.

A Week-Long Shopping Spree in Iceland

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Some people call shopping Iceland’s national hobby; with all kinds of goods being sold across the country, why wouldn’t it be something most people enjoy? More than that, it is a very popular thing for visitors to do. If you’re spending a week in Iceland and are looking for something to fill your itinerary with, a shopping spree in the variety of Icelandic stores could be exactly what you’re looking for.

In addition to Iceland’s woolen goods of great quality, woodwork, Viking jewelry, interesting books and maps on the country, paintings, sculptures, and unique foods, there are still many more things that you can purchase in Icelandic stores. One of these great buys is fashion wear. Iceland has prices that match its fellow Nordic countries and yet is still very competitive in the fashion business and with designer labels. In fact, Iceland even hosts a huge fashion week every year with designers and models featured from many places.

In addition to all of this, most of the shopping in Iceland is duty-free (no taxes), which means that you can spend even less money for more. Whether you’re looking for Beachwood smoked salmon or designer jewelry, Iceland as a shopping center is an excellent place to visit.

A Week of Music in Iceland

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It started in an airplane hanger in 1999 and has now become one of the biggest music festivals in the entire world, especially for new and innovative music. Iceland Airwaves is a week-long music party that offers everything from clubs and great bands to cultured nightlife entertainment. And the artists that are featured at the festival come from many places, not just Iceland. Often, bands from Europe and North America share the stage with the Icelandic favorites.

One big perk to the festival is the location. In addition to the opportunity for music fanatics to party their hearts away, the days can be filled with viewing geysers, walking behind waterfalls, hiking volcanoes, or soaking in the world-famous geothermal spas. Or, for the more culturally sophisticated, time spent studying the museums and the historical significance of Iceland is an option. All of this is generally purchased in one inclusive package, covering airfare, the music festival, and more fun. Looking for a way to spend a week in Iceland? Do it the music way; do it with Iceland Airwaves.

A Week in Iceland's Spas

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One of the things that Iceland is best known for is its geothermal power which heats much of the water in the country (the hot springs as well as the water in homes) naturally and even helps produce electricity for Iceland. Throughout the countryside, natural hot pools can be found – drawing in Icelanders and visitors to relax in their mineral-rich waters. In fact, every single town in Iceland takes advantage of the geothermally-heated water and offers saunas, hot tubs, and pools (even in cold weather). Reykjavik is recognized around the world for its high-quality spas, and people everywhere find the waters to be therapeutic for stress-related problems and others like asthma, arthritis, and more.

For a few dollars, you can purchase time to relax in a hot pool and a sauna. Or you can go to a private spa for a truly unique experience. There are fitness areas, Jacuzzis, baths with oils and herbs, and more. Plus you can purchase a massage treatment or another spa treatment. Usually, the prices look something like this:

• 10 minute massage: £9
• 20 minute massage: £18
• 30 minute massage: £25
• 50 minute massage: £42

One of the most famous spas in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon. There you can swim in the water, enjoy the cave sauna, relax with a massage while still in the soothing waters, or purchase a full holistic treatment. The geothermal waters surrounded by basalt lava filled with a very light naturally-milky feel are perfect for letting your tension roll away.

A Week-Long Horse-Riding Holiday in Iceland

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Since one quite popular outdoor activity in Iceland is horseback riding, one quite popular Icelandic holiday (for residents and visitors) is on horseback. Iceland has two great advantages over other riding destinations – its horses and its scenery. The Icelandic horse is not only pure breeds but also a skilled animal; the landscapes are unforgettably beautiful – with waterfalls, glaciers, and mountains speckling the countryside.

Most tours of Iceland on horseback are designed for intermediate or very skilled riders. Usually, the package is for a tour of about a week or more, with long day treks through a variety of terrains. At night, comfortable accommodation is provided at hotels, cabins, and other types of lodging; and all of it is included in the original price of the trip (often around £1200 or more). Trips are usually offered in every season (though the summer months are the most popular), and Iceland takes on a completely different look in each time of the year.

Some examples of typical tours are –
1. A trip visiting Iceland’s most famous spots in natures – its countryside, waterfalls, canyons, geysers, and more.
2. A journey focusing on the beaches and lovely water across the country; enjoy riding along the shore.
3. An adventure exploring the incredible volcanoes as well as the lava formations, steam vents, and pseudo-craters that surround it.

Iceland - The People and the Culture

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Iceland - Major Cities and Regions

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Iceland - Activities and Attractions

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Iceland - A One Week Itinerary

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Beginner's Guide to Iceland

Greater Reykjavík Area

Southern Iceland

Northern Iceland

Eastern Iceland

Western Iceland

Iceland - A One Week Itinerary Overview

A Week-Long Educational Iceland Trip

A Week-Long Shopping Spree in Iceland

A Week of Music in Iceland

A Week in Iceland's Spas

A Week-Long Horse-Riding Holiday in Iceland

Iceland - The People and the Culture

Iceland - The People and the Culture Overview

Preserving Iceland's Culture

Women in Iceland

Icelandic Pride

Iceland - Major Cities and Regions

Iceland - Major Cities and Regions Overview

What are all of the regions of Iceland like?

Greater ReykjavÃk Area

Southern Iceland

Iceland - Activities and Attractions

Iceland - Activities and Attractions Overview

The Top Icelandic Attraction - Cultural Preservation

Activities and Attractions In Reykjavik

Activities and Attractions in Southern, Western, and Northwestern Iceland

Iceland - A One Week Itinerary

Iceland - A One Week Itinerary Overview

A Week-Long Educational Iceland Trip

A Week-Long Shopping Spree in Iceland

A Week of Music in Iceland