Best Places in Iceland for Your Elopement and Honeymoon | Local Iceland Expert and Elopement Specialist
Best Places in Iceland for Your Elopement and Honeymoon | Local Iceland Expert and Elopement Specialist
Coming to Iceland to Elope is magical, but what are the best places and things to do in Iceland while here?
If you love incredible landscape views, rugged and magical terrains, going on hikes and adventures, or expanding the horizons of your tastebuds, you should plan on exploring Iceland. Iceland has some of the best sights you can hope to see, especially if you love nature and the outdoors.
There is so much to explore in Iceland, from geothermal baths to some of the county’’s most popular waterfalls to unique dining experiences and one-of-a-kind museums. I love that my journey as an elopement photographer brought me here and allowed me to discover so many freaking rad places and fun things to do since I’ve been living here in Iceland.
Today, I’m sharing the best places to visit and explore in Iceland, so—when you get here—you’ll already know all the top must-see Iceland destinations. Shoot me your questions in the comments section if you want to learn more about visiting Iceland!
Iceland Driving Tours
THE Ring Road
Why not sign up for a ring road driving tour while you’re checking out Iceland? The Ring Road tour (also known as the Gold Circle) is a popular route that takes you to some of Iceland’s top destinations. The road starts in Reykjavik, and then you’ll drive east into the Thingvellir National Park area. The road then carries on South to Hveragerdi before coming full circle at Reykjavik. You can drive the road yourself or book a tour. The journey itself covers about 230 kilometres, but make it a day trip if you want to have plenty of time to stop and see the exciting Icelandic landmarks while on the road. That might include the Gullfoss waterfalls or Thingvellir National Park, or maybe just saying hello to the Icelandic horses you pass along the way.
Best Food & Drink in Iceland
Reykjavik
You can’t travel here without stopping in Reykjavik, the capital city and largest community in Iceland. Stop in Reykjavik and have a bite (highly recommend Dillon’s Whiskey Bar), visit one of the many unique museums (The National Museum of Iceland, the Perlan Museum or one-of-a-kind experiences like the Punk Museum or Phallological Museum). There’s really no shortage of things to see and do here, and lots of places to stop and grab some delicious eats or drinky drink treats while you’re at it (more on that coming up).
Vik
If you prefer quaint seaside villages to the hustle and bustle of the city, be sure to make a stop in Vik. Explore here and you might find some of the most interesting species of birds and marine wildlife, like puffins, dolphins, and whales. It’s also home to popular Icelandic landmark Reynisfjara Beach. This beach catches eyes and admiration with its stunning volcanic black sand, and has been named among the 10 most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world.
Bjórböðin Beer Spa
If you want a restaurant that combines great food with an exceptional experience, you’ve got to check this place out during your Iceland adventures. Yes, it’s a restaurant that serves lots of beer-related food. But, let’s face it, the real reason you should come here isn’t for what’s on the menu. The Bjórböðin Beer Spa also offers a beer bath experience that is exactly what it sounds like: you literally bathe in beer. UHM! YES, PLEASE! Sign me up! Stop here if you’re hungry, thirsty, and interested in trying something new that’ll leave your skin soft and your head spinning pleasantly.
Dill Restaurant
It’s important that you stay fueled up while travelling around Iceland, so I recommend taking a break at Dill Restaurant to refuel and recharge. Inspired by the Icelandic countryside, Dill focuses on both foraging and sustainability, so you’re bound to get a plate that reflects the characteristics of Iceland and helps the environment. #winning
Mat Bar
Mat Bar has what you didn’t even know you needed: Nordic food with an Italian twist. It’s conveniently located centrally near tons of great galleries and museums, making it the perfect place to stop for lunch while you’re exploring Reykjavik.
Skál! Restaurant
Skál! Restaurant opened in Iceland’s first food hall at Hlemmur. They focus on organic produce, foraged herbs, and big plates. If you want food with an Icelandic focus at a reasonable price, try it here. There are also lots of share plates, so you and your travel buddies can share a little bit of everything.
Omnom Chocolate Factory
Of all the places to see in Iceland, this one is the most likely to get your dopamine soaring. Omnom is an award-winning chocolate factory and a hit destination for foodies and chocolate lovers alike. Stop in while you’re getting to know Reykjavik, and take a factory tour while enjoying endless samples of chocolate. Chocolate coma anyone?!
Best Iceland Hot Springs and Fun Places to Visit in Iceland
Blue Lagoon, Grindavík
You can’t bring up Iceland and not mention the Blue Lagoon—one of Iceland’s most stunning geothermal seawater spas. When you visit the Blue Lagoon, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve travelled to a different planet. This place has a totally out-of-this-world vibe because it’s surrounded by volcanic landscape. It’s a great place to kick back and relax in between all the other adventures you do during your trip here.
Hot Springs at Geosea Sea Baths (Husavik)
Icelanders have been enjoying geothermal bathing for centuries. The hot springs at Geosea let you enjoy it too. This geothermal bathing destination is a great place to rest, relax, and disconnect. Put up your feet and enjoy the vantage point this destination offers for whale watching, or make your way over to the swim-up bar for your bevy of choice.
Myvatn Nature Baths
The Myvatn Nature Baths are one of the best places to adventure in Iceland because you can stop and soak in the view, literally! The nature baths are actually a set of geothermally heated pools. Myvatn is in Northern Iceland, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s no wonder that the vibe here is very laid-back and serene. Checking out these baths gives you a moment to stop and enjoy the nature around you.
Phallological Museum
When you’re travelling around Iceland, your icelandic adventure won’t be complete without this one-of-a-kind, must-see experience. Really, this museum is exactly what it sounds like: a museum containing the world’s largest display of penises (and penile parts) of various mammals. A unique destination, to stay the least. It’s centrally located in Reykjavik, so you can build this into your day of museum tours or stop by whenever you feel compelled to try something a little different.
Best Hiking in Iceland & Adventure Experiences (yes, that you can add to your elopement day!)
Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve
If you love the outdoors and hanging out in places that are difficult to pronounce, add the Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve to your list of Iceland must-sees. Found at the edge of the Laugahraun lava field, this nature reserve is known for its colourful landscape, stunning blue lakes, hot springs, and incredible hiking trails.
Maelifell Volcano & Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park
Of all the places to explore in Iceland, stopping to see the Maelifell Volcano & Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park might be the most interesting. The Maelifell volcano, which was once concealed under the Myrdalsjökull Glacier, stands over 2500 feet tall. It’s hard to miss in its surroundings, which is just a desert of black sand. It’s a cool place to visit if you love the outdoors and rad scenery, and it’s also a neat piece of history.
Skaftafell Ice Cave, Vatnajökull National Park
Iceland is known for its stunning winter landscapes, and nothing shouts picturesque winter like the Skaftafell Ice Cave. Surrounded by the incredible glaciers and mountains of Vatnajokull National Park, the ice cave is a breathtaking shade of blue. A part of the cave is cracked up one side, which allows indirect daylight to enter from both ends. The safest time to visit this cave is in the winter, and there are guides available to show you the way through.
Glacier Lagoon Kayaking (Jökulsarlon)
Icelandic Tourism was made for those who love the great outdoors (as if you hadn’t already guessed that!). While you’re adventuring in Iceland, stop at Glacier Lagoon for an afternoon of kayaking. It’s an active way to get to know Iceland, plus you get to experience Vatnajökull National Park. This unique Icelandic kayaking experience lets you weave in and out between icebergs while paddling crystal clear waters. You really have to see this for yourself to believe it’s actually happening. #somebodypinchme
Best Most Popular Iceland Waterfalls (and with me, I will show you the hidden gems)
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
A lot of the most incredible sights in Iceland are waterfalls. There are so many different ones to choose from, but there’s something indescribable about Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. It’s one of the most visited waterfalls in Iceland and boasts—probably because of its 196-foot high cascade. Travelers love stopping here because, with this particular waterfall, you can actually step behind it. Your Iceland adventuring wouldn’t be complete without getting all up in Seljalandfoss’s backend. 😏
Skogafoss Waterfall
You can’t experience Iceland without stopping at Skogafoss waterfall. This waterfall setting is ridiculously breathtaking, making this setting the perfect place for all things romantic. Bring someone you love (and maybe a photographer—hint, hint) and soak it all in. The beauty of this waterfall lies in its power—it’s palpable—and there’s almost always a rainbow close by.
Let Your Iceland Adventuring for Your Elopement and Honeymoon Begin
Now that you’re prepared with a big list of things to see and do while you’re exploring Iceland, all you need to do is pack your suitcase. Whether you’re here to eat, adventure, enjoy nature, or just try something new, Iceland has a ton of options for you.
In need of a photographer for your upcoming Iceland adventure or, even better, your Iceland elopement? Get in touch and let’s talk about how we can work together.