Best Places to Visit in South Iceland | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
South Iceland Travel Guide
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Welcome to South Iceland, a breathtaking destination that offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Located in the southern part of Iceland, this region is known for its stunning landscapes, including majestic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and towering glaciers. One of the highlights of South Iceland is the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that encompasses three iconic attractions: the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal area of Geysir, and the historic Þingvellir National Park. Additionally, South Iceland is home to the charming town of Vik, where you can explore the dramatic Reynisfjara beach and witness the unique basalt rock formations. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a history enthusiast, South Iceland promises an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring sights and rich cultural heritage.
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Best Places To Visit in South Iceland
1. Reykjavik: As the capital and largest city of Iceland, Reykjavik is a must-visit destination in South Iceland. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of modernity and natural beauty. Explore the colorful streets, visit iconic landmarks like the Hallgrimskirkja Church, and indulge in the city's thriving culinary scene. Don't miss the chance to relax in one of the geothermal pools or take a boat tour to spot whales and puffins.
2. Vik: Located on the southern coast of Iceland, Vik is a picturesque town known for its stunning black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs. The famous Reynisfjara Beach with its basalt columns and towering sea stacks is a sight to behold. Hike up to the Dyrholaey promontory for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the chance to spot puffins nesting in the cliffs. Vik is also a great base for exploring nearby natural wonders such as the Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls.
3. Hveragerdi: Nestled in a geothermal area, Hveragerdi is a charming town known for its hot springs and geothermal parks. Take a relaxing dip in the hot springs or explore the beautiful hiking trails that wind through the surrounding mountains and valleys. Don't miss the chance to visit the Reykjadalur Valley, where you can hike to a natural hot river and enjoy a soothing bath surrounded by stunning landscapes.
4. Selfoss: Situated on the banks of the Olfusa River, Selfoss is a vibrant town with a rich history and plenty of attractions. Explore the town's cultural heritage at the Selfoss Museum or take a stroll along the riverbank to enjoy the scenic views. Selfoss is also a great base for exploring the Golden Circle route, which includes popular attractions like the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
5. Hella: Located in the heart of South Iceland, Hella is a small town that offers easy access to some of the region's most famous natural wonders. Visit the nearby Hekla volcano, one of Iceland's most active volcanoes, or explore the stunning Thjorsardalur Valley with its waterfalls and lava fields. Hella is also a popular spot for horseback riding, allowing visitors to experience the unique Icelandic horse breed in its natural habitat.
6. Kirkjubaejarklaustur: This small village is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Explore the nearby Skaftafell National Park, home to the stunning Svartifoss waterfall and the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull. Kirkjubaejarklaustur is also a great starting point for visiting the otherworldly landscapes of the Fjaorargljufur canyon and the famous Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
7. Hvolsvollur: Located at the foot of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, Hvolsvollur is a charming town with a rich history and proximity to some of South Iceland's most famous attractions. Visit the Lava Centre to learn about Iceland's volcanic activity or explore the nearby Thorsmork Nature Reserve, known for its stunning hiking trails and panoramic views. Hvolsvollur is also a great base for exploring the Westman Islands, a group of volcanic islands just off the coast.
8. Grindavik: Situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, Grindavik is a small fishing town known for its geothermal activity and the famous Blue Lagoon. Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Grindavik is also a great starting point for exploring the other geothermal areas of the peninsula, such as the Gunnuhver hot springs and the Krysuvik geothermal area.
9. Stokkseyri: This quaint seaside village is known for its charming atmosphere and proximity to the stunning black sand beach of Eyrarbakki. Explore the village's cultural heritage at the Ghost Centre or enjoy a delicious seafood meal at one of the local restaurants. Stokkseyri is also a great spot for birdwatching, with numerous species of seabirds frequenting the nearby wetlands.
10. Hvammstangi: Located on the Vatnsnes Peninsula, Hvammstangi is a small town known for its beautiful coastline and abundant wildlife. Take a scenic drive along the peninsula to spot seals basking on the rocks or visit the nearby Seal Center to learn more about these fascinating creatures. Hvammstangi is also a great base for exploring the untouched beauty of the Westfjords region, with its rugged landscapes and remote fishing villages.
Hotels Map Of South Iceland
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Tours And Activities In South Iceland
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Food & Drinks To Try In South Iceland
1. Icelandic Lamb: South Iceland is known for its high-quality lamb meat. Try dishes like lamb stew or grilled lamb chops to experience the rich and tender flavors of Icelandic lamb.
2. Skyr: Skyr is a traditional Icelandic dairy product that resembles yogurt but has a thicker and creamier texture. It is often enjoyed as a snack or used as an ingredient in desserts. Don't miss the chance to try this unique Icelandic delicacy.
3. Fish and Seafood: Being surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, South Iceland offers a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood options. From cod and salmon to langoustine and lobster, you can indulge in delicious seafood dishes prepared in traditional Icelandic styles.
4. Rugbrauo: Rugbrauo is a traditional Icelandic dark rye bread that is baked underground using geothermal heat. This dense and flavorful bread is often served with butter or smoked salmon and is a must-try when visiting South Iceland.
5. Brennivin: Known as "Black Death," Brennivin is a traditional Icelandic schnapps made from fermented potato mash and flavored with caraway seeds. It is a strong and distinctive spirit that is often enjoyed as a shot or used in cocktails. Give it a try if you're feeling adventurous.
6. Icelandic Hot Dogs: While not exclusive to South Iceland, Icelandic hot dogs are a popular street food that you can find throughout the country. Made from a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, these hot dogs are served with various toppings like crispy onions, ketchup, and mustard. Grab one from a local hot dog stand for a quick and tasty snack.
7. Icelandic Craft Beer: South Iceland is home to several microbreweries that produce a wide range of craft beers. From traditional styles to innovative flavors, you can explore the local beer scene and sample unique brews made with Icelandic ingredients like moss, berries, and herbs.
8. Icelandic Plokkfiskur: Plokkfiskur is a traditional Icelandic fish stew made with boiled fish, potatoes, onions, and bechamel sauce. It is a comforting and hearty dish that showcases the simplicity and flavors of Icelandic cuisine.
9. Icelandic Pancakes: Icelandic pancakes, known as ponnukokur, are thin and crepe-like pancakes that are often served with whipped cream and jam. They make for a delicious breakfast or dessert option and are a popular treat among locals and visitors alike.
10. Icelandic Herbal Tea: South Iceland is home to many herbal plants and flowers that are used to make traditional Icelandic herbal teas. These teas are known for their soothing and aromatic qualities and are a perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the beautiful landscapes of South Iceland.
Best Time To Visit South Iceland
The best time to visit South Iceland, Iceland is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is the mildest and the days are the longest. During this time, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) and up to 24 hours of daylight. This allows you to explore the stunning landscapes of South Iceland, including the famous waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches, without worrying about extreme weather conditions. Additionally, the wildlife is more active during the summer, giving you a better chance to spot puffins, whales, and other marine creatures. However, it's important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so popular attractions may be more crowded. If you prefer quieter surroundings, you may consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) or fall (September and October), when the weather is still relatively mild and there are fewer tourists.
Flight Calendar For South Iceland
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Transportation To South Iceland
There are several transportation options to South Iceland, Iceland.
1. Flight: You can fly into Keflavik International Airport (KEF) in Reykjavik, which is the main international airport in Iceland. From there, you can take a domestic flight to one of the airports in South Iceland, such as Vestmannaeyjar Airport or Bakki Airport.
2. Bus: There are bus services that operate between Reykjavik and various towns in South Iceland, such as Selfoss, Hella, and Vik. You can take a bus from the Reykjavik Bus Terminal (BSI) to reach your destination in South Iceland.
3. Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring South Iceland. You can rent a car at Keflavik International Airport or in Reykjavik and drive to your destination in South Iceland. The main road, Route 1 (also known as the Ring Road), connects Reykjavik to South Iceland.
4. Private transfer: You can also arrange for a private transfer or hire a taxi to take you from Reykjavik or Keflavik International Airport to South Iceland. This option provides more flexibility and convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a more personalized transportation experience.
It is recommended to check the availability and schedules of transportation options in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.