This Nordic Nation Was Named One of the Safest and Most Peaceful Countries on Earth — How to Plan the Perfect Trip

Iceland has become one of the top adventure travel destinations in the world. Though, in many respects, it still feels like a well-guarded secret. Perhaps that's because of its bountiful natural resources, empty roads that wind through the vast volcanic landscape, or the swaths of open land with nothing but wild horses and waterfalls for miles.

Not surprisingly, most travelers come to seek out the stunning natural beauty —  from Skógafoss to Thingvellir National Park — and are ready for adventure. To that end, ecologists and environmentalists recommend not eating puffin or whale — sometimes presented to tourists — and following the leave no trace rule. That means taking all of your trash with you and sticking to marked paths to avoid harming the precious ecosystem.  

Besides unimaginable scenery, Iceland provides a wealth of local culture. It's known for having warm hospitality and a strong national pride in its history and mythology. Reykjavik, the capital and largest city brims with museums, churches, cozy restaurants, and bars. Icelanders are quite friendly and helpful. It’s the most peaceful country in the world, according to a recent Global Peace Index report, and the crime rate is extremely low. All this makes it an excellent destination for worry-free solo travel. 

Ready to plan an epic trip to the land of fire and Iceland? Scroll on for expert-approved picks for the best places to explore, eat, drink, and stay.

Best Hotels and Resorts

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

A spa lover's dream, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland ranks among the most upscale and relaxing stays in the country. On the pampering side of things, it has an award-winning subterranean spa for mind-body treatments and a private lagoon fed by healing, geothermal waters. Guests also get to enjoy morning yoga, Icelandic coffee time, Michelin-starred dining, and modern suites. "The property is a great choice for the end of an Iceland trip," said Susmita Baral, Travel + Leisure's travel editor. "Not only is it a great way to relax and indulge in self-care before returning home, but it's also just 20 minutes from the airport."

The Reykjavik Edition

The Reykjavik Edition is a luxury hotel right in the heart of downtown. In addition to a prime location, the newly built property possesses contemporary rooms and a sleek spa with a hammam, steam room, and sauna. Ryan Connolly, owner and a guide for Hidden Iceland, suggests heading up to the rooftop bar in the winter months for cocktails, a lively atmosphere, and a chance to spot the northern lights on a clear night. 

Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll

Surrounded by the remote, untouched wilderness of Iceland’s central highlands, the newly minted Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll supplies the ideal home base for adrenaline-fueled adventures. There are special packages for northern lights chasers and snowmobile enthusiasts. After all the thrills, tuck into a cozy sanctuary with neutral decor, sweeping views, and protection from the elements. "Whether you want to explore the outdoors or stay in, this hotel is truly a cozy base," said Baral. "There's even an underground passageway so you can access the restaurant and other parts of the property without stepping foot outside."

Panorama Glass Lodge

If you’ve ever dreamt of glimpsing the northern lights from the comfort of bed, Panorama Glass Lodge in southern Iceland will turn those fantasies into reality. “The tiny cabins in the middle of nowhere are completely made of glass and come with both private hot tubs and saunas to warm up on cold days and nights,” says Kyana Sue Powers, Iceland expert and travel advisor.

Hotel Rangá

Imagine staying at the base of a volcano! Hotel Rangá boasts such a unique location that it's almost always booked at the height of the season. Available tours emphasize the beauty of the stars and northern lights as well as the luxurious experience of geothermal baths. It’s also a great launchpad for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking.

Best Things to Do

Golden Circle

The most popular tourist route in Iceland, the Golden Circle is an easy path between three stunning, famous natural spots: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall. You can either drive or arrange a guided tour.

Diamond Circle

Located in northern Iceland, the Diamond Circle has four primary stops: Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, Ásbyrgi glacial canyon, and the fishing town of Húsavík (home to the Húsavík Whale Museum). Such scenic and cultural wonders make it one of Iceland's most popular sightseeing routes.

South Coast

Tours of Iceland’s south coast typically begin in either Reykjavik or Vík and bring travelers to many striking natural sights — namely the famous Eyjafjallajökull glacier and Skógafoss, a towering waterfall that often produces a rainbow on sunny days. Other highlights include the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Sólheimajökull glacier, and Reynisfjara black-sand beach.

Blue Lagoon

While Iceland brims with rugged adventures, it’s also a great place for relaxing. Situated in a lava field near Grindavík, the Blue Lagoon is a bucket-list geothermal spa that’s famed for its mineral-rich waters and mud. It’s the perfect spot to spend the day soothing sore muscles and unwinding. (Pro-tip: If you don't want your hair feeling like straw, be sure to lather it in conditioner when you're changing at the property.)

Ice Cave Tour

One of the most unique features of Iceland, the natural ice caves form in late fall, gleem blue all winter, and melt in the spring. “This makes each visit truly unlike any other,” says Connolly. Due to the rough terrain and the need for glacier safety training, it’s essential to go with a guide. “KatlaTrack offers tours to the best and most accessible ice caves every year.”

Best Restaurants

OX Restaurant

One of the best and most unique dining experiences in Iceland, Michelin-starred OX Restaurant serves flavorful fine dining dishes in an intimate, 16-seat counter setting. “The chef doesn’t just prepare incredible food with local products but also shares the story of where the ingredients came from and the inspiration behind the dishes,” adds Connolly.

Oto

Hailed as the best new restaurant in Reykjavik by both critics and diners, Oto is a rather unique concept. “On paper, a culinary fusion of Japanese and Spanish influences made with Icelandic ingredients sounds quite unconventional. I’m this case, thinking outside the box results in some exceptional sharing dishes,” says Connolly. “Don’t forget to try the cocktails and mocktails.”

Fish Company

Tucked inside the old Zimsen building, a former store built in the 19th century, the Fish Company feels at once contemporary and cozy — a style also reflected in the seasonally influenced menu. Chef Lárus Gunnar Jónasson whips up gourmet fare with an emphasis on local seafood and other fresh Icelandic ingredients. 

Næs

You have to take a 45-minute ferry to the Westman Islands to reach Næs (pronounced like "nice"). “I make the trip time and time again because it’s such a lovely place with delicious food,” says Powers. “The sweet tomatoes and stracciatella alone are well worth the journey.

Moss Restaurant

The perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or savor a spectacular post-spa meal, the Michelin-starred Moss Restaurant occupies the top floor of the Blue Lagoon Icelandic ingredients shine in wildly creative ways through chef-prepared coursed menus — including a vegan option. "Every course was delicious," said Baral, "But I will say the cod crisps were addictive — light, crispy, and flavorful. It was created to use the entire fish and minimize food waste."

Powers advises to “ask for a tour of the wine cellar, where world-class vintages are held underground in an alcove between volcanic rocks.”

Best Time to Visit

Iceland is a country of extremes in many ways. The best time to visit really depends on what you’re hoping to see and do. Peak viewing season for the northern lights stretches from September through March, but the country also gets quite cold then and daylight only lasts about five hours. Connolly also steers visitors away from attempting to navigate Route 1 between mid-October and mid-April. "Regardless of how good or skilled of a driver you are, it’s about changing weather and road closures.” 

The period between early June and late August brings temperate weather for visiting countless natural wonders. Travelers should be advised to bring a sleeping mask — at the height of summer, the sun stays up until the middle of the night. 

How to Get There

Icelandair and PLAY operate low-cost direct flights between many major U.S. airports and Reykjavik. You can usually score a deal, which makes a trip to Iceland — or a multi-day stopover on the way to another European destination — an economical (and exciting) option.

Towns and Cities to Know

Reykjavik: Vibrant, welcoming, and gorgeous, Reykjavik is the capital and most popular tourist destination in Iceland. This makes sense given that it’s the largest city, close to the airport, and in the middle of some of the most famous landmarks. 

Akureyri: Sometimes referred to as the “capital of the North,” Akureyri is a port city at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord that’s home to Akureyri Church, the Akureyri Botanical Garden, and some of the best whale watching in the world, plus

Húsavík: Most people visit Húsavík to see Húsavíkurkirkja, the iconic wooden church built in 1907. Travelers will also enjoy the geothermal baths and Húsavík Whale Museum. 

Höfn: Primarily known for scenic views of the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice cap in Europe, the fishing town of Höfn in southeast Iceland also supplies shoals and beaches that make it a popular film location. 

Vík í Mýrdal: A village of just 300 people, Vík í Mýrdal (or just Vík) ranks among the most popular stops on the Ring Road for those taking the south coast sightseeing route. Two of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls — Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss — sit between Reykjavik and Vík, making the two-and-a-half-hour drive more than worth it. On clear days, the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers are visible, too. However, the biggest draw is without question the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara.

Ísafjörður: Surrounded by sweeping vistas, Ísafjörður hosts Iceland's popular musical festivals — the Ísafjörður Rock Festival and Við Djúpið Music Festival. "If you make it here, definitely visit Tjöruhúsið for a meal," said Baral. "The restaurant serves the daily fresh catch in a family-style buffet in the warmer months."

Vestmannaeyjar: A volcanic archipelago off Iceland’s south coast Vestmannaeyjar (or the Westman Islands) is accessible by ferry. It’s a must-visit to see some diverse wildlife — including puffins and Beluga whales.

How to Get Around

Iceland has one main highway, called Ring Road or Route 1. As you might expect based on the name, it goes all the way around the island country. Many of the most famous and beautiful natural wonders sit along or near this route. Most travelers start in Reykjavik, the city closest to Keflavík International Airport (KEF), and either rent a car and do a self-drive itinerary or arrange a multi-day tour through one of the many local operators. Within the capital, it’s possible to utilize the public bus service or take a shuttle to attractions such as the Blue Lagoon.