8 Breathtaking Places to Visit in Iceland You’ll Never Forget

Liputan6.com, Jakarta If there's one country that you must visit at least once in your lifetime, it is Iceland. Located between the Arctic and the North Atlantic Ocean, many say that this Nordic country is one of the most beautiful in the world. But what makes it so special?

In terms of size, Iceland might be considered a small country. However, the nature is so breathtaking that many visitors are lost in awe. From the famous Blue Lagoon to the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall, there are many places to visit in Iceland that are so beautiful that you'll never forget them for the rest of your life. Not to mention charming cities and towns like Reykjavik and Selfoss, which will make your trip complete.

If you are planning your first trip to this stunning Nordic country but don't know where to go, don't worry. Here are eight of the best places to visit in Iceland you will never forget:

Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and a great starting point for your trip. The city has colorful houses, lively streets, and a mix of modern and traditional culture. You can explore Hallgrímskirkja Church with its tall tower, Harpa Concert Hall with its glass design, and the Sun Voyager sculpture by the sea. The city also has cozy cafés, art galleries, and museums where you can learn about Iceland’s history, music, and daily life. Reykjavik is a good place to enjoy nightlife or relax before heading into nature.

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, located along the southern coast. The waterfall drops from a high cliff, creating a picture-perfect view that looks different depending on the light and season. What makes it unique is the path that lets you walk behind the water curtain, giving you a special perspective. Close by is Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall partly covered by a rock canyon. The area around Seljalandsfoss also has green fields and scenic views, making it a memorable stop.

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa known for its warm, milky-blue water that stays hot all year. The water is full of minerals like silica and sulfur, which many people believe are good for the skin. The spa is located in a lava field, creating a natural and relaxing setting. You can enjoy soaking in the hot water, try a silica mud mask, or book a massage in the lagoon. There are also restaurants and a hotel nearby, making it easy to spend the whole day here.

Akureyri is the largest town in northern Iceland and is often called the “capital of the north.” The town has colorful houses and beautiful views of Eyjafjörður fjord. You can visit Akureyri Church, a landmark that overlooks the town and offers wonderful views. The Akureyri Botanic Garden is another highlight, featuring plants from both Iceland and many other countries. In winter, the nearby mountains are popular for skiing, while in summer you can go whale watching. The town also has museums, art displays, and a lively cultural scene.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it has so many of the country’s natural features in one area. Here you find black sand beaches, lava fields, waterfalls, mountains, and small fishing villages. One of the highlights is the Snæfellsjökull glacier, which sits on top of a volcano and is surrounded by legends. Kirkjufell, a pointed mountain often seen in photos, is also located here. The peninsula is a great place to drive around, with many stops that give you a good view of Iceland’s variety.

Vatnajökull National Park is one of Europe’s largest national parks and includes glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls. It is home to Vatnajökull, the biggest glacier in Europe. You can explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where large pieces of ice float in a calm blue lake before reaching the sea. Another must-see is Svartifoss, a waterfall surrounded by black basalt columns that look like organ pipes. The park also has hiking trails, ice caves in winter, and wide landscapes that show Iceland’s powerful nature.

Selfoss is a small but growing town in southern Iceland, often used as a base to explore nearby attractions. The town itself has a peaceful atmosphere with cafés, shops, and riverside paths. From Selfoss, you can easily reach the Golden Circle route, which includes Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir hot spring area, and Thingvellir National Park. A short drive away, Reykjadalur Hot Springs offers a natural hot river where you can relax in warm water surrounded by hills. The town also has local museums and a cultural center where you can learn more about life in Iceland. It’s a convenient and comfortable stop for travelers.

Thingvellir National Park is a place of both natural beauty and important history. It is the site where the world’s first parliament, the Althing, was formed in 930 AD. The park lies in a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating dramatic cliffs and clear water fissures. You can explore Almannagjá gorge, see Öxarárfoss waterfall, and even snorkel or dive in Silfra fissure with its crystal-clear water. Thingvellir is part of the Golden Circle and is a highlight of any trip.