FX.co ★ Top 5 attractions in Iceland

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Lagoon is truly special. This dazzling icy wonder is on Iceland’s southeastern coast, not far from Reykjavik. It is the deepest lake in the country, seemingly "carved out" and framed by a glacier. Ice chunks of various colors break off the glacier and fall into the lagoon before floating toward a black sand beach. Once they reach the shore, they shrink in size and eventually become part of the Atlantic Ocean. This black beach, where the ice fragments melt, is called Diamond Beach. The colors of the icebergs in Jökulsárlón Lagoon vary due to the oxygen trapped inside. Seals live in the lagoon, while among the birds, you can spot Arctic terns. Surrounded by ancient ice, Jökulsárlón is both a vibrant lake and a place of true tranquility.

Blue Lagoon Resort

One of Iceland’s most popular attractions is the Blue Lagoon Resort. Its convenient location and unique landscape make it a must-visit. Among Iceland's landmarks, the Blue Lagoon is a major geothermal spa that many dream of experiencing. It is situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik. Today, the Blue Lagoon is a world-class spa resort with steam baths, saunas, and water massages. It is surrounded by lava fields and geothermal waterfalls. The resort also boasts excellent restaurants, such as Lava and Moss, which serve traditional Icelandic cuisine. The Blue Lagoon is the perfect place to relax and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss, or the "Golden Waterfall," is a stunning two-tiered waterfall in southern Iceland and a key attraction of the country’s famous Golden Circle route. No matter the season, this majestic waterfall draws many visitors. Gullfoss consists of two cascades, 11 and 21 meters high, with a total drop of about 70 meters. It is located on the glacial river Hvítá, which originates from the Langjökull Glacier, Iceland’s second-largest ice cap. In winter, when the river freezes into sparkling waves of ice, Gullfoss looks especially impressive. On sunny days, countless rainbows form in the mist of the waterfall. There are three viewing platforms offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular stops on the Golden Circle route. It covers a large section of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The rift between them has areas where visitors can go snorkeling and diving. Þingvellir is known for its incredible natural beauty, but it also has great historical significance. In the 10th century, Viking settlers chose this place for the meetings of the Alþingi, the world’s oldest parliament. The park, shaped by volcanic fissures, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other highlights include the Wish Lake and the "Penny Canyon," where many visitors toss coins into the water, hoping their wishes will come true.

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Rounding out the top five attractions in Iceland is Hallgrímskirkja, a Lutheran church and the tallest building in Iceland at 74 meters. Thanks to its height, it is visible from anywhere in Reykjavik. Inside, it houses a world-famous organ built by renowned craftsman Johannes Klais. This instrument stands 15 meters tall and weighs an astonishing 25 tons. The church’s interior features a traditional nave and large Gothic windows. Architect Guðjón Samúelsson, one of Iceland’s most famous designers, created the church’s design, reportedly inspired by the beauty of the Svartifoss waterfall. Hallgrímskirkja is a symbol of Reykjavik, with its massive gray tower standing high above the city's modest skyline. Around it, iron-clad houses painted in bright colors create a stunning contrast. From the top of Hallgrímskirkja, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the colorful city, the harbor, and the distant Esja mountain.