A horseback riding trip with an Icelandic horse is one of the best ways to get to know Icelandic nature.
Flights from Helsinki to Reykjavik
Finnair and Icelandair offer direct flights from Helsinki to Reykjavik. The journey takes about three and a half hours. Interim flights are often cheaper, but they often increase the travel time to an unreasonable length. Flight prices typically range from € 300 to € 700.
Iceland is a popular stop over destination on its way to North America. Many stop for a few days on a city break in Reykjavik or even longer to tour Iceland short for ISL by abbreviationfinder.
There are two airports in Iceland, but international flights mainly land at Keflavík Airport. The bus ride from Keflavík to central Reykjavik takes about 50 minutes, and the airport bus is the smartest choice for traveling – a taxi ride hawks a salty hundred euro slice from your travel budget.
Overnight in Iceland
Especially in summer, Iceland’s accommodation offer is plentiful. Hotels and hostels as well as inns and farms are offered to tourists to spend the night. In winter, many rural accommodations close their doors, but in larger villages you can find a place to stay all year round.
You should be prepared for the fact that staying in Iceland is rarely affordable. However, when you are on time, you can also find affordable hotel rooms. You should also check the offer of the Airbnb apartment rental service. From autumn to spring, accommodation is clearly cheaper than in the summer season.
Finished excursion or on your own by car
If you’re traveling to Reykjavik, an easy way to explore Icelandic nature is to take part in the Golden Circle. During the day, you’ll see Þingvellir National Park, where the continental plates of Eurasia and North America meet, the gigantic roaring Gullfoss Falls and the hot spring field, from which a steamy geyser bursts into the air a little bit.
For more information on excursions: Iceland Excursions
Those staying longer can rent a car and learn more about glacier fields and the natural wonders of the northern Mývatn region. In Iceland, it is not worth staying in the capital, as the wonders of the country do not open properly outside Reykjavik. Renting a car opens up tremendous opportunities, but is also dizzyingly expensive. It is probably more profitable for those traveling alone or in pairs to prefer buses, which can equally experience the Icelandic countryside and marvel at nature.
ICELAND DESTINATIONS
As the largest city in Iceland, Reykjavik is the northernmost capital of the world.
Reykjavik, the northernmost capital
Reykjavik is the northernmost capital of the independent state in the world. With a population of about 120,000, it is also by far the largest population center in the country.
The location of Reykjavik in the south-western part of Iceland is made unique not only by its maritimeity but also by the Esja mountain, which dominates the landscape from the mainland, rising to a height of almost a kilometer. In addition to its photographic nature, the mountain offers good hiking opportunities.
Reykjavik’s best-known attractions include the country’s largest church, Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert and Conference Center and City Hall. Delightful Reykjavik has a hearty fishing village, and wooden houses covered in colorful clowns create a fun contrast to modern office buildings.
There is plenty of life in Reykjavik, as it is full of small atmospheric cafés, stylish restaurants, clubs and personal boutiques. The capital full of culture is worth experiencing, but even a short visit is worth a visit outside the city.
Skin-friendly spas in Iceland
Less than 50 km from Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most popular destination. Geothermally warm water and breathtaking scenery are must-see destinations for most travelers to Iceland. This is reflected, on the other hand, in the tourism of the area, and it is pointless to dream of actual peace, at least during the high season.
While Blue Lagoon isn’t actually a natural site – it’s artificially built and filled – it’s still worth experiencing. In addition, the water of Blue Lagoon is known to pamper the skin, and is suitable for many skin problems.
Near Lake Mývatn in northern Iceland, you will find a quieter natural spa than the Blue Lagoon, still with stunning scenery and fewer tourists.
Admire nature in Haukaladur
By far the best-known single natural site in the Haukaladur area in southern Iceland is the world’s most famous geyser, aptly named Geysir. The water statue erupting from the cracking of the fiery soil is one of the most photographed attractions in the country.
In the vicinity of the geysir area, the tourist will also find another type of water element. Gullfoss, the “golden waterfall”, is a picturesque waterfall that reaches quite a roar, especially during meltwater.
THE BEST OF ICELAND
Pools and hot springs are Iceland’s tourist strengths.
The most popular attractions
- Blue Lagoon
- Geyser
- Hallgrímskirkja
- Gullfoss
- Asbyrgi Canyon
Best experiences
- Bathing in a hot spring
- Horseback riding on an Icelandic horse
- Admiring the geyser
- Golden Circle tour