With Iceland announcing that they’re opening to tourists that have been vaccinated, we’re all in the mood for a bit of Iceland trip planning. One of the best ways to find cool places to go while you’re traveling? Checking out Instagram!
To save you some time, here are 9 of the most instagrammable places in Iceland to add to your bucket list.
1. The Blue Lagoon
No doubt topping the list is the Blue Lagoon. If you haven’t seen pictures of it yet, you’ll definitely fall in love once you do. This geothermal spa is filled with bright blue water that’s full of minerals and super great for your skin. A day pass isn’t too expensive and it’s pretty close to the airport, so this is a must on your list for Iceland.
2. Skogafoss Waterfall
This is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland! While there’s definitely no shortage of beautiful waterfalls to visit, this one needs to be on your list. Located on Iceland’s South Coast, it’s pretty easy to drive to and easily accessible once you’re there—you can walk right up to the waterfall (if you don’t mind getting totally soaked). Don’t forget a raincoat for the spray!
3. Kirkjufell
Instagram aside, Kirkjufell is the most photographed mountain in Iceland (not to mention it makes a cameo in Game of Thrones). No matter what time of day you’re able to head out, it’s a gorgeous spot and definitely deserves a place on your bucket list. It’s also one of the most popular places in Iceland to go for seeing the Northern Lights!
4. Vatnajökull
The largest glacier in Iceland plus otherworldly ice caves? Yes, please! It may be a bit chilly, but these ice caves are one of the most magical places in Iceland. Hanging out inside of this glacier and nearby icebergs is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you definitely won’t forget.
5. Seljalandsfoss
Another must-visit waterfall to add to your list: Selijalandsfoss. It’s located along the Ring Road (a major road that loops all the way around Iceland and also a popular road trip route), so it’s pretty easy to get to. Besides that, this waterfall is accessible from all angles—you can even walk on a small path behind it! Go early in the morning or at sunset for the best views and the fewest crowds.
6. Landmannalaugar
These stunning and colorful hills in the Icelandic highlands are so perfect, it’s hard to believe they’re real—even when you’re there in real life. The dramatic colors and landscapes—created by geothermal activity in the region—makes this area one of the most beautiful places in Iceland.
7. Diamond Beach in Jokulsalron
This iconic Icelandic beach is known for its pitch-black sand and massive ice chunks that float onshore, making the whole beach look a bit like it’s been covered in diamonds. While Iceland beaches aren’t made for swimming and tanning, this is definitely a must-see spot and will definitely give you some good pics for the ‘gram.
8. Arnarstapi
Between the beaches of Arnarstapi and Hellnar is this hiking trail across the lava and along the beaches, featuring this amazing arch across the water. The hike isn’t too long (only about an hour!) and with views and pics like this, it’s definitely worth a trip out.
9. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
If there isn’t enough in Iceland to make you feel like you’re on another planet already, head to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon for an otherworldly landscape and a bit of hiking that’ll give you views for days.
10. Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
This small plane wreckage is definitely one of the most Instagrammed places in Iceland (aka get there early if you want to avoid lots of people). It’s definitely worth a trip out for some super cool shots (and yes, you can go inside of the plane!), but it’s quite a walk from the parking lot. Pro tip: take the bus which will shuttle you between the parking lot and the plane or be prepared for a long (at least one hour each way), exposed walk.
11. Reynisfjara
If you visit nowhere else on this list, make time to head out to Reynisfjara, a world-famous black-sand beach on Iceland’s south coast. The black sand created by lava and the iconic black rock sea stacks and basalt columns here make Reynisfjara one of the most unique beaches in the world.
Of course, there’s tons more waterfalls, glaciers, mountains and scenic views to be found in Iceland. Is Iceland on your bucket list? Start looking at flights to Iceland and see how cheap it could be to get away.
