If Iceland could have a personality test, it would turn out to be the quirky, adventurous friend who convinces you to hike a glacier, visit a museum about elves or to go kayaking on a lagoon surrounded by icebergs. Sounds like your kind of people? With endless daylight, sensory adventures and landscapes that flip between looking like the Moon and something from a fantasy book at every turn, this island is a great place to say yes to the unexpected. You’ll walk behind waterfalls, enjoy natural pools with geothermal water and, if you’re lucky, you might even meet a cute little seal. Iceland is wild and wonderful—and the memories you make here? They’ll stick to your heart like volcanic ash to hiking boots. After all, isn’t travel, at its core, the joy of experiencing something utterly new, a spontaneous leap into the unknown? Visiting Iceland isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about feeling the island’s wild energy.
Now, for the best part: Thanks to the new direct flights connecting Montreal and Reykjavik with Air Transat, your journey to the edge of the Arctic Circle has never been easier.
Under the relentless glow of the Midnight Sun, here is your essential guide to the most iconic summer adventures in Iceland.
Touring the Golden Circle and Thingvellir National Park
If you’re heading to Iceland, the Golden Circle and Þingvellir National Park are an absolute must—this iconic trio of natural wonders should be the first stop on your itinerary, seeing as they’re the perfect introduction to the island’s wild beauty and geological drama. It’s the kind of experience that instantly connects you to Iceland’s soul, and it’s the first unforgettable chapter of any Iceland bucket list.
- Þingvellir National Park:Here, you can literally walk between continents. The rift valley lets you straddle the divide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—a silent, awe-inspiring geological event unfolding beneath your feet. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Þingvellir offers not just stunning scenery, but a deep sense of wonder.
- Haukadalur geothermal area: This is where Iceland’s geothermal magic comes alive. Watch Strokkur, the ever-reliable geyser, erupt every five to ten minutes, sending a dramatic column of boiling water skyward. It’s actually, really thrilling!
- Gullfoss waterfall: One of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls, plunging in two tiers into a rugged canyon. On sunny days, the mist catches the light, creating shimmering rainbows that dance above the falls—a moment that feels almost otherworldly.
The best part? The Golden Circle is incredibly easy to explore. Whether you’re road-tripping at your own pace or hopping on a guided day tour from capital city Reykjavík, it’s a hassle-free way to dive into Iceland’s greatest hits.
Hiking in iconic lceland landscapes
Hiking in Iceland is the best experience to connect with its epic scenery. From volcanic deserts to rainbow mountains, hiking trails reveal the island’s raw beauty as you walk along hot springs, icelandic horses, black sand beaches and magnificent waterfalls. In short, a visit to Iceland isn’t complete without hitting the hiking trail, whatever your fitness level!
- Svartifoss: Minimal effort and maximum reward? We’ve got you. Located in Skaftafell National Park alongside the Ring Road, this hiking trail leads to three waterfalls, including the striking Svartifoss. Fed by meltwater from the Svínafellsjökull glacier, it’s framed by dramatic black basalt columns that famously inspired the design of Reykjavík’s Hallgrímskirkja church.
- Laugavegur: If you’re hiking the ultimate Iceland bucket list, this is it. This 55-kilometer trail winds through the surreal landscapes of the Highlands—lava fields, glacial rivers, and all. Warning, though: this is a multi-day hike for seasoned adventurers.
- Reykjadalur: Just outside downtown Reykjavík, hike through steaming valleys to reach a natural hot spring river—perfect for a soak! It’s a favorite half-day escape for both locals and visitors seeking respite from the capital city.
- Glymur: As one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, Glymur is drama with a capital D. The trail includes river crossings and cave passages, leading to sweeping views of a deep canyon and the roaring falls. It’s a bit more challenging, but the payoff is unforgettable.
- Fimmvörðuháls: This 22-kilometer trail between two glaciers is a showstopper. You’ll walk across lava fields from the 2010 eruption and gaze out over vast, untouched landscapes. It’s a demanding hike, but for those up to the challenge, it’s pure magic.
- Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon: For a gentler hike, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a gem. Carved by glacial meltwater, its easy trail hugs cliff edges, offering dreamy views of the winding river and Mögárfoss waterfall.
Snorkeling or diving in the Silfra Fissure
You can’t get closer to the planet’s pulse than this. Snorkeling or diving in the Silfra fissure—located in Þingvellir National Park along the Golden Circle—is one of the truly unique things to add to your Iceland bucket list.
Here, the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly drift apart, creating a rift filled with ice-cold meltwater filtered through lava rock for decades. The result? Water so clear, visibility exceeds 100 meters (328 feet). Floating between continents in complete silence is surreal, chilly, and unforgettable! Summer is the best time to experience it, when water conditions are ideal and the scenery is at its most vibrant.
Kayaking in Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in South Iceland
Looking for one of the most unique things to do on Iceland’s south coast? Jökulsárlón is it. Just off Iceland’s ring road on the south coast, this glacier-fed lagoon offers some of the clearest water and best views you’ll find anywhere, and not just in Iceland. You’ll float past ancient icebergs, maybe even spot a curious seal popping up to say hi! Afterward, stroll over to Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice sparkle like gems on black sand. It’s one of those truly unique things that makes you stop, smile, and say, “Wow—I’m really here.”
Plus, summer is the ideal time to visit Iceland for this unforgettable adventure.
Go whale watching in Husavik in Northern Iceland
If you’re looking for one of the top things to do in Iceland, head north to Húsavík—widely regarded as the whale-watching capital city of Iceland. This charming harbor town opens onto Arctic waves of Skjálfandi Bay, a prime feeding ground which makes for an astonishingly high success rate with frequent sightings. Step aboard a traditional oak vessel or a speedy RIB and ride the rhythm of the ocean as you scan the horizon. Suddenly, a humpback breaches, and showing their massive flukes, alongside Minke whales and dolphins.
It’s an exhilarating, moving, and deeply humbling spectacle that reconnects you with the sheer scale of the natural world. Nature at full volume!
Soak in geothermal water at the Blue Lagoon (+ other options!)
Few places on Earth let you soak in the raw power of volcanic activity like Iceland. From steaming pools to luxurious spas, these experiences are a great place to unwind after exploring the Golden Circle or driving the Ring Road.
- Blue Lagoon – Just a few minutes from the airport in the Reykjanes Peninsula, this iconic spa is often the first stop after a red-eye flight to Iceland! It’s famous for its milky-blue waters and luxury amenities.
- Sky Lagoon – A chic oceanside spa near Reykjavik with infinity views over the waves.
- Nauthólsvík geothermal beach – This man-made beach in Reykjavik blends golden sand, cold ocean waves, and geothermal warmth. Hot water is pumped into a protected lagoon, creating a refreshing swimming area that averages 15–19°C in summer. A great excuse to sunbathe under the midnight sun!
- Secret Lagoon – Iceland’s oldest pool, tucked in the Golden Circle for a truly authentic soak.
- Seljavallalaug – A hidden gem close to Seljalandsfoss, surrounded by dramatic mountains.
- Myvatn Nature Bath – Northern Iceland’s answer to the Blue Lagoon, with stunning volcanic scenery.
- Vök Baths – Floating pools on a serene geothermal lake in East Iceland.
- Forest Lagoon – A lush spa near Akureyri. Forests are rare in Iceland, making this tranquil retreat especially unique.
- Húsafell canyon baths – Hike into Icelandic wilderness with a guide to discover these baths—hidden geothermal gems perfect for adventurers.
- Geosea – Luxury, cliffside infinity pools overlooking the Arctic waves in Húsavík.
- Grettirs pool – A historic hot spring linked to Icelandic sagas, ideal for culture lovers.
Fishing in Breiðafjörður Bay in West Iceland
Cast off into the rich waters of Breiðafjörður Bay—one of the top things to do in the Westfjords—where Icelandic tradition meets unforgettable adventure. Cruise between towering fjords with the best views of Snæfellsnes, join local fishermen, and try your hand at reeling in fresh Atlantic catch. The highlight? Sampling “Viking Sushi”—scallops and roe straight from the sea floor. It’s a salty, scenic, hands-on experience that blends nature, culture, and cuisine into one unforgettable journey.
Go on a glacier hiking adventure in Sólheimajökull
Glacier hiking is one of the top things to do in Iceland during summer—and for good reason. With longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, the ice becomes easier to navigate, making your ice axe feel more like a trusty sidekick than a battle tool. Head to Sólheimajökull, just a few minutes from Seljalandsfoss on the Ring Road, and part of the massive Mýrdalsjökull ice cap.
(By now, you’ve probably deduced that jökull means glacier in Icelandic).
Note that you need to hire a guide or join a guided tour to come here. But surreal landscapes—deep blue crevasses, icy ridges, and ever-shifting formations—are well worth it. It’s a hands-on, heart-pumping adventure that makes you feel tiny in the face of Iceland’s frozen power.
Inside the volcano tour in Þríhnúkagígur
Ever wondered what the inside of a volcano looks like? At Þríhnúkagígur, you don’t have to imagine—you can go there. Hop into a cable lift and descend 213 meters (699 feet) into a dormant magma chamber, untouched since its last eruption 2,000 years ago. The space is enormous—Statue-of-Liberty-sized—and the walls are streaked with dazzling mineral colors.
It’s the only place in the world where you can do that!
Admire puffins at Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the Westfjords
The views? Absolutely jaw-dropping. The solitude? Unmatched. If puffins are your spirit animal, then the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the Westfjords should be at the top of your list of great places to visit.
Soaring over 500 metres, the cliffs are teeming with seabirds and offer one of Iceland’s most spectacular wildlife encounters. From June to early August, puffins steal the spotlight thanks to their vibrant beaks and quirky personalities. And if you’re lucky, you might spot an arctic fox trotting through the tundra—protected and free to roam in this untouched wilderness.
Getting here is half the adventure. Hornstrandir has been uninhabited since the 1950s and has no roads, so it is recommended that you visit with a guide, given that the terrain is rugged, the weather can change quickly and the trails are remote. Most tours depart from Ísafjörður.
Walk on the black sand beach in Vík
Welcome to Reynisfjara, one of Iceland’s most dramatic scene. Just outside Vík í Mýrdal, this black sand beach—formed from volcanic lava—is great place to experience Iceland’s otherworldly beauty. Wander past towering basalt columns that look like nature’s version of organ pipes, and gaze out at the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the Atlantic. Warning: the waves here are sneaky and strong. Admire from afar—no swimming, no wading, no exceptions.
Pro tip: For the best views of the beach, drive up to Dyrhólaey, Iceland’s southernmost point, or hike to Vík Cemetery for a stunning overlook.
What are the best things to do in Iceland in summer? A few more options:
- Sleep on an Icelandic farm: Book accommodation at a working farm, particularly in the North or East, for an authentic taste of rural Icelandic hospitality and to gain insight into local life.
- Catch the Áróra show at Perlan: Though the Northern Lights are not visible in summer, visit the Perlan museum in Reykjavík for its immersive Áróra show, a 360° interactive experience that vividly recreates the magic of the aurora inside its dome.
- Visit Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum: Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, learn about the hákarl (fermented shark) tradition and its history, and if you dare, sample the famous local specialty.
- Walk behind a waterfall: Trek behind a roaring curtain of water at Seljalandsfoss,on Iceland’s South Coast. It’s a great place for epic photos—just don’t forget your waterproof jacket!
- Visit the volcanic agriculture center in Hveragerði: Learn how Iceland uses its geothermal heat to power greenhouses, allowing the growth of fruits, vegetables, and flowers despite the northern climate.
