Emmanuelle Bluman

Iceland Travel Guide

Discover the destination Culture and Discovery

5 reasons to travel to Iceland

Want to go all the way north and experience something different? Here are 5 good reasons to take a trip to Iceland.

1
Discover amazing geothermal sites
2
Make the most of the hot water springs
3
See the northern lights
4
Admire amazing landscapes
5
Feel isolated from the rest of the world

1. Discover amazing geothermal sites

Craters, volcanic smoke, bubbling pools, volcanoes, lava fields, hot water springs: there are so many natural phenomena due to the volcanic activity which exists in Iceland. If you've never had the chance to see a geyser explode or see the sun emerge from the smoke, don't wait any longer!

2. Make the most of the hot water springs

Iceland is a volcanic country with a lot of geothermal activity. Some springs are naturally hot and there's nothing nicer than taking a dip. Though the Blue Lagoon is the most well known site, there are several other places which have these famous hot springs, sometimes lost in the midst of a wild natural environment away from any human activity. A must for relaxation!

3. See the northern lights

Located at a latitude of 65°, Iceland is one of the countries where you can admire the aurora borealis. This phenomenon is only visible between September and March and essentially depends on the weather conditions, particularly having a clear sky. But when you have the chance to see it, it's incredible!

4. Admire amazing landscapes

Iceland is 100% a nature destination. As soon as you leave the capital Reykjavik, you're transported to a mineral universe where volcanoes and glaciers reign. The country is largely covered in lava fields, deep craters, imposing cliffs and powerful waterfalls. The best way to discover the country is therefore to explore it by foot!

5. Feel isolated from the rest of the world

As a country which is scarcely populated, and with some completely untouched regions, Iceland is one of the rare places in Europe where you can walk for a full day without seeing anybody - a rare luxury which should be savoured by taking beautiful walks in the heart of the Icelandic natural environment.

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Why travel in Iceland

Iceland’s culture and natural landscapes are unlike anywhere else. A place with such diverse landscapes isn’t for everyone, but for those who love nature and are unfazed by cold weather, Iceland is not to be missed.

You should go if...

you want to see the northern lights in winter
you want to experience the midnight sun in summer
you are not afraid of the cold
you dream of seeing geothermal and volcanic sites and enjoying hot springs

You shouldn't go if...

You are more interested in shopping and nightlife
Extreme weather bothers you

When to go in Iceland?

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The best time to go to Iceland is in the summer: the temperatures are pleasant and the days are long. Depending on the region you are going to, you can also go in May or September, when there are fewer tourists and the climate is still pleasant, but be warned: some trips and sites are closed during these months. Between October and April, the country is nearly always in darkness, but you can see the magnificent aurora borealis if you are ready to brave the cold and the night.

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What to see in Iceland?

Top places to discover.

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Prepare your trip in Iceland

Iceland is known for its tough winters and its snowy landscapes, but it's a country which is full of surprises in all seasons. Here are some practical ideas to help you prepare for your trip to this country.

What documents to travel with in Iceland?

For Europeans, for stays of less than 3 months in Iceland, an identity card or a passport which is valid for at least 3 months after the trip is all you need. But taking a passport is best especially for those travelling from the UK.

There is no need for a visa.

For more details you can look on the government website.

Health advise

It's not necessary to take any health precautions for trips to Iceland. For Europeans you can take your European health insurance card to cover any potential medical fees.

Language

The official language is Icelandic. It's known for being the most difficult language in the world!

Time difference

In summer there's 1 hour time difference between Iceland and the UK and no difference in the winter. When it's 10pm in London it's either 10pm or 9pm in Reykjavik.