Famous Landmarks in Iceland
Top 10 Famous Landmarks in Iceland
Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal wonders. The country’s rich culture, Viking heritage, and natural landmarks make it a popular destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
1. The Blue Lagoon
Landmark Overview
The Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Located in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon features warm, mineral-rich waters that are said to have healing properties for the skin. The striking blue waters against the backdrop of black lava rocks create a surreal landscape, making it one of the most popular attractions in Iceland.
Location
- Grindavik, Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland
- Coordinates: 63.8804° N, 22.4495° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Starts at 6,990 ISK ($50 USD) per person, with various packages available for different experiences.
Nearby Airports
- Keflavik International Airport (KEF): Located about 20 kilometers from the Blue Lagoon.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: Iceland does not have a railway system. The Blue Lagoon is accessible by car or bus from Reykjavik or Keflavik.
Special Attention
Pre-booking Required
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, so pre-booking is essential to ensure availability. Time slots are limited, especially during peak travel seasons.
Therapeutic Benefits
The lagoon’s silica mud is known for its beneficial effects on the skin. Complimentary silica mud masks are available at the lagoon, offering a therapeutic experience.
2. Gullfoss Waterfall
Landmark Overview
Gullfoss, or the “Golden Falls,” is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls and a highlight of the Golden Circle route. The waterfall cascades down two tiers into a rugged canyon, creating a powerful spectacle of natural beauty. Gullfoss is fed by the Hvítá River, which originates from the Langjökull glacier. Visitors can view the waterfall from multiple vantage points, each offering a different perspective of its grandeur.
Location
- Southwest Iceland
- Coordinates: 64.3275° N, 20.1218° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to visit.
Nearby Airports
- Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV): Located about 115 kilometers from Gullfoss.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: There are no railway stations in Iceland. Gullfoss is accessible by car or through guided tours departing from Reykjavik.
Special Attention
Winter Visits
In winter, Gullfoss can be particularly stunning, with snow and ice adding to the beauty of the falls. However, the pathways may be icy, so visitors should wear appropriate footwear.
Golden Circle Tours
Gullfoss is part of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route, which includes Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. Many guided tours offer a full-day experience of these key attractions.
3. Hallgrímskirkja Church
Landmark Overview
Hallgrímskirkja is the largest church in Iceland and one of Reykjavik’s most recognizable landmarks. Designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson, the church’s striking design was inspired by Iceland’s natural basalt lava formations. Standing at 74.5 meters tall, Hallgrímskirkja offers panoramic views of Reykjavik from its observation tower. The church is also known for its impressive pipe organ, which is used during concerts and services.
Location
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Coordinates: 64.1421° N, 21.9266° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to enter the church; the observation tower costs 1,000 ISK ($7 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV): Located about 2 kilometers from Hallgrímskirkja.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: There are no railways in Reykjavik. The church is located in the city center and is easily accessible by foot, car, or public transport.
Special Attention
Observation Deck Views
The observation deck at Hallgrímskirkja provides stunning 360-degree views of Reykjavik and the surrounding landscape. Visiting on a clear day offers the best visibility.
Concerts and Events
The church regularly hosts concerts, particularly featuring its grand pipe organ. Check the event schedule ahead of time for a chance to attend a musical performance in this stunning setting.
4. Thingvellir National Park
Landmark Overview
Thingvellir National Park is not only a site of natural beauty but also of immense historical significance. It was here that Iceland’s first parliament, the Althing, was established in 930 AD, making it one of the oldest parliamentary sites in the world. The park is situated in a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, and visitors can walk between the two continents. Thingvellir is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Location
- Southwest Iceland
- Coordinates: 64.2550° N, 21.1295° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to enter, but there is a parking fee of 750 ISK ($5 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV): Located about 45 kilometers from Thingvellir.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: There are no railways in Iceland. Thingvellir is accessible by car or through Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik.
Special Attention
Diving and Snorkeling at Silfra
The Silfra fissure in Thingvellir is one of the only places in the world where you can dive or snorkel between two tectonic plates. The water is crystal clear, offering visibility of up to 100 meters.
Historical Significance
Thingvellir was the site of Iceland’s general assembly for centuries and remains a symbol of Icelandic identity. Visitors can explore both its natural and historical significance through marked trails and information boards.
5. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Landmark Overview
Jökulsárlón is a stunning glacier lagoon in southeastern Iceland, formed by the melting ice of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The lagoon is filled with massive icebergs that have calved from the glacier and drift slowly towards the sea. The interplay of light on the ice creates a surreal and ever-changing landscape. The nearby Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash up on the black sand, is another must-see.
Location
- Southeast Iceland
- Coordinates: 64.0480° N, 16.1791° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to visit; boat tours on the lagoon are available starting at 5,500 ISK ($40 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Höfn Airport: Located about 80 kilometers from Jökulsárlón.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: There are no railways in Iceland. Jökulsárlón is accessible by car, or through guided tours from Reykjavik or nearby towns.
Special Attention
Boat Tours
Taking a boat tour allows visitors to get up close to the floating icebergs. Both amphibious vehicles and Zodiac boats are available for these tours, providing different perspectives of the lagoon.
Northern Lights
Jökulsárlón is a fantastic spot for viewing the Northern Lights during the winter months, thanks to its remote location and minimal light pollution.
6. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Landmark Overview
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most picturesque waterfalls, plunging 60 meters from a cliff into a pool below. What makes this waterfall unique is that visitors can walk behind it, offering a rare and breathtaking view of the falls from behind the water curtain. Seljalandsfoss is easily accessible from the Ring Road, making it a popular stop for travelers exploring southern Iceland.
Location
- South Iceland
- Coordinates: 63.6156° N, 19.9895° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to visit, but parking costs 700 ISK ($5 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV): Located about 125 kilometers from Seljalandsfoss.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: There are no railways in Iceland. The waterfall is accessible by car or bus from Reykjavik.
Special Attention
Walking Behind the Waterfall
Be sure to wear waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes if you plan to walk behind the waterfall, as the spray from the falls can make the path slippery and wet.
Evening Visits
Seljalandsfoss is particularly beautiful during sunset or even in the evening when the waterfall is illuminated. This offers an entirely different experience, especially during the summer months.
7. Skógafoss Waterfall
Landmark Overview
Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s largest waterfalls, with a drop of 60 meters and a width of 25 meters. The waterfall produces a heavy spray, often creating vivid rainbows on sunny days. Visitors can climb the staircase to the top of the falls for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Skógafoss is located near the town of Skógar and is a popular stop along Iceland’s Ring Road.
Location
- South Iceland
- Coordinates: 63.5321° N, 19.5111° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to visit.
Nearby Airports
- Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV): Located about 150 kilometers from Skógafoss.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: There are no railways in Iceland. Skógafoss is accessible by car or bus from Reykjavik.
Special Attention
Hiking Trails
Skógafoss is the starting point for several hiking trails, including the Fimmvörðuháls pass, which takes hikers between the glaciers of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull.
Camping Nearby
For adventurers, there is a campsite located near the waterfall, allowing for an immersive experience with nature.
8. Reykjavik’s Harpa Concert Hall
Landmark Overview
Harpa Concert Hall is one of Reykjavik’s most striking modern buildings, known for its glass façade that reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding harbor. The concert hall hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. Harpa’s innovative design and location make it a hub for Reykjavik’s cultural life and a popular architectural landmark.
Location
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Coordinates: 64.1509° N, 21.9334° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to enter; ticket prices for concerts and events vary.
Nearby Airports
- Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV): Located about 3 kilometers from Harpa.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: There are no railways in Iceland. Harpa is centrally located and easily accessible by car, bus, or on foot.
Special Attention
Architectural Design
Harpa’s glass façade, designed by artist Ólafur Elíasson, is meant to evoke the basalt landscape of Iceland. Visitors can explore the interior spaces, which are equally impressive in their design.
Cultural Events
Harpa hosts a range of events throughout the year, from symphony performances to contemporary art exhibitions. Check the schedule in advance for unique cultural experiences.
9. Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
Landmark Overview
The Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is the remains of a U.S. Navy DC-3 aircraft that crash-landed on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur in 1973. The stark contrast of the weathered plane against the desolate landscape has made it a favorite spot for photographers and adventurers. While the wreck itself is a haunting reminder of the past, the journey to reach it is equally memorable, requiring a 4-kilometer hike across the black sand.
Location
- South Iceland
- Coordinates: 63.4595° N, 19.3645° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to visit.
Nearby Airports
- Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV): Located about 160 kilometers from Sólheimasandur.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: There are no railways in Iceland. The plane wreck is accessible by car, followed by a hike from the parking lot.
Special Attention
Hiking to the Wreck
The walk to the plane wreck takes about 45 minutes each way. Visitors should be prepared for unpredictable weather and wear appropriate clothing for the hike.
Photography Tips
The plane wreck is a popular photography spot, especially at sunrise or sunset. Be mindful of other visitors and share the space for photography.
10. Vatnajökull National Park
Landmark Overview
Vatnajökull National Park is home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, and covers roughly 14% of Iceland’s total land area. The park is a diverse landscape of glaciers, volcanoes, ice caves, and rivers. Popular activities in the park include glacier hiking, ice caving, and visiting the breathtaking Svartifoss waterfall, known for its basalt column formations.
Location
- Southeast Iceland
- Coordinates: 64.1158° N, 16.1256° W
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to visit; guided glacier tours and activities are available for varying fees.
Nearby Airports
- Höfn Airport: Located about 120 kilometers from the main visitor center of Vatnajökull National Park.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Rail Access: There are no railways in Iceland. Vatnajökull National Park is accessible by car or through guided tours.
Special Attention
Glacier Tours
Guided tours on Vatnajökull glacier offer an unforgettable experience. Whether you choose to hike or explore an ice cave, it’s recommended to go with a professional guide for safety.
Winter vs. Summer
Vatnajökull offers different experiences depending on the season. In winter, visitors can explore the famous ice caves, while summer provides opportunities for hiking and camping.