November 2024
A Dream Trip Come True
Iceland has been on my vision board for years, and finally, I got to check it off my list! The five days I spent in Iceland during the winter season were truly magical, even though a volcanic eruption closed the Blue Lagoon (my original reason for going). From stunning landscapes to unforgettable experiences, this trip was everything I had dreamed of and more. Here’s a breakdown of where I stayed, what I did, what I ate, what I wore, and some tips for your own Iceland adventure.
Where I Stayed
Choosing the right hotel was one of the hardest parts of planning this trip, as I had to consider bus stops, parking, and proximity to the excursions we booked. Luckily, we hit the jackpot with Storm Hotel by Kea Hotels in Reykjavik. The hotel was conveniently located right across the street from a bus stop and only a 6-minute drive from the bus terminal. It’s also close enough to key attractions that you can easily walk or take a short ride (even a quick e-scooter trip).
Breakfast was included in the room rate, but I was really impressed by the coffee station, serving some of the best coffee I’ve had, especially for a non-coffee-drinker from the U.S. The lounge area by the bar was a great spot to unwind after a busy day. Overall, Storm Hotel was a perfect base for anyone visiting Reykjavik.
What I Wore
Packing for Iceland in the winter requires thoughtful preparation. You’ll need moisture-wicking base layers,insulating mid-layers, waterproof outer layers, and warm socks. I highly recommend investing in high-quality gear, as this is one trip where cheaper options might leave you feeling uncomfortable. For a full packing list, be sure to check out my detailed Iceland packing guide here.
Must-See Spots
My time in Iceland was packed with incredible experiences. Here’s a list of my top must-see spots, including some that you could skip if you’re short on time:
1. Sky Lagoon : A luxurious experience that I highly recommend. The views from the infinity pool are breathtaking, and we had the added bonus of the Ser package, which included private showers and access to a unique wellness Ritual. The Ritual was my favorite part, especially the dry sauna with a view. Make sure to book in advance, as the Ser package fills up fast, but the lagoon experience itself is worth it even without it.
2. South Iceland (Vik area)
The Seljalandsfoss Waterfall was stunning, and we even tried glacier water right from a glacier we could see in front of us. It’s a must-see if you’re in the area.
3. Diamond Beach
One of the most anticipated parts of my trip! This black sand beach is famous for the chunks of ice that wash up from glaciers, sparkling like diamonds on the shore. It’s split into two sides: one for beach access with views of glaciers, and the other with a gift shop, food trucks, and another lookout. Don’t miss it!
4. The Lava Show
If you’re into science, this is a must-do! We got to witness professionals manipulate lava up close, which was extra exciting given the volcanic eruption happening while we were there. It’s a great experience for lava enthusiasts.
5. The Perlan Museum
A fantastic spot with two standout experiences: the indoor Ice Cave and a Northern Lights Show in a planetarium. Both were 10/10, and don’t forget to grab some ice cream on the top floor—toasted marshmallow flavor was divine!
If you have time:
1. The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a popular route in Iceland, and while it does offer some stunning sights, I can understand why you might skip it if your time is limited. We took a 10-hour tour, which included cool spots like Gullfoss Waterfall and Thingvellir National Park, but honestly, my favorite moments were the more interactive experiences like the Sky Lagoon, museums, and chasing the Northern Lights. If you’re looking for an adventure, some tours offer extensions like glacier snowmobiling and ice cave explorations, which are well worth it.
Tip: Make sure you provide a working email for excursion updates. During one of our excursions, we were informed that the ice caves were deemed unsafe, and we were refunded that portion of the tour. However, the snowmobiling on a glacier was still a highlight and totally worth it!
2. The Rainbow Road
I was excited to visit the famous Rainbow Road, but it didn’t quite live up to my expectations. The colorful painted road, cute shops, and the meaningful story behind it are charming, but if you’re on a tight schedule, this can be skipped without missing out on much. However, if you do stop by, be sure to check out Kaffifélagið for one of the best Swiss mochas I had during my trip!
3. Krama Geothermal Pools
Krama is a lesser-known gem that absolutely lived up to the hype. Located a bit outside Reykjavik, we visited just after sunset, and the quiet, intimate atmosphere made it extra special. The geothermal pools are incredibly relaxing, and admission gives you access to saunas and relaxation rooms.
A couple of tips for Krama:
Timing: Book this for the middle of your trip since it’s a bit of a drive from Reykjavik. You’ll want some time to refresh afterward.
Packing: Bring your own quick-drying towels and a robe, as these aren’t provided (and can be extra).
Winter Caution: If you’re visiting during winter like we did, be cautious of icy surfaces when entering and exiting the pools.
4. Lava Cave Experience
If you’re visiting Iceland to explore the wild, magical nature, the Lava Cave Experience is a must-see. This science-driven tour takes you through a cave that was once home to flowing lava. The experience is fascinating, with stunning rock layers and colors, and the guide was extremely knowledgeable, answering all our questions. If you’re into geology and Iceland’s volcanic history, this one is definitely worth the time.
Food Highlights
Iceland is a food lover’s dream, especially if you enjoy seafood and rich, hearty meals. Here are a few highlights from my culinary journey:
Reykjavik Fish and Chips
As the name suggests, this place is famous for its crispy, golden fried fish and fries. The garlic sauce was my favorite part!
Hlemmur Matholl
This food hall had a variety of options, but my favorite was the lamb sandwich from Fjarhusid. The pickled cabbage made it unforgettable. We also indulged in some amazing gelato from Gaeta Gelato.
OmNom Ice Cream
Known for its unique flavors, I tried the chocolate hazelnut, and while it was a little too sweet for me to finish the scoop, I’d definitely try a smaller portion next time.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
This famous hot dog stand is a must-try. The Icelandic hotdog topped with raw onions and mustard is a unique experience—and the long line proves it’s worth the wait!
Travel Tips
Book in advance: Many excursions, like the Sky Lagoon and Golden Circle tours, fill up fast. I recommend booking at least 3 months in advance for popular attractions.
Weather can change quickly: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes. Pack for all types of weather!
Don’t miss the Northern Lights: While you can’t guarantee seeing them, apps like Aurora will help you track the best times to chase the lights. Be prepared to wait, and bring hand warmers!
Dining hours: Many restaurants and cafes close early (around 10 pm), so plan your meals accordingly, especially on nights you’re out chasing the Northern Lights.
