There’s road-tripping—and then there’s road-tripping in Iceland. Around every corner is something wild and otherworldly: towering waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacial lagoons, and steaming geothermal fields. Whether you’re cruising the full Ring Road or cherry-picking highlights, these are 10 unmissable places to add to your Iceland itinerary.
1. Skógafoss – Iceland’s Mighty Wall of Water
Start strong with Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic and powerful waterfalls. This 60-meter curtain of thunder crashes dramatically to the valley floor—and if the sun’s out, you’ll probably catch a rainbow or two. You can also climb the staircase to the top for a totally different perspective (and a glute workout).
Don’t miss: Walking right up to the base (prepare to get misted!), and hiking the start of the Fimmvörðuháls Trail from the top.
2. Seljalandsfoss – The One You Can Walk Behind
Just down the road is Seljalandsfoss, the waterfall with a twist—you can actually walk behind it. It’s like stepping into a fairytale, with water thundering around you and views of the southern plains beyond. Wear waterproofs or embrace the spray!
Don’t miss: The less-crowded Gljúfrabúi waterfall, hidden just a short walk north.
3. Skaftafell Glacier – Hike on Ancient Ice
Ready to strap on some crampons? Skaftafell is your gateway to the Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest in Europe. Join a guided glacier hike to explore sparkling blue ice caves, jagged crevasses, and other icy wonders that look like they belong on another planet.
Don’t miss: A walk to Svartifoss, the waterfall framed by black basalt columns.
4. Diamond Beach – Icebergs Meet the Ocean
At Diamond Beach, shards of glacial ice are washed ashore on striking black sand, glittering like jewels in the sun. It’s surreal, beautiful, and completely unique to Iceland. The contrast of bright blue or crystal-clear ice against the black beach is a photographer’s dream.
Don’t miss: Sunrise or sunset, when the ice glows and the crowds are minimal.
5. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Floating Ice Magic
Just across the road from Diamond Beach is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon—where icebergs drift slowly through a deep glacial lake toward the sea. Take a boat tour or just enjoy the view from the shore—you might even spot seals playing in the icy water.
Don’t miss: A zodiac boat tour for a closer look at the icebergs and Vatnajökull in the background.
6. Seyðisfjarðarkirkja – East Iceland’s Rainbow Surprise
Tucked into a postcard-perfect fjord, Seyðisfjörður is one of Iceland’s prettiest towns. The blue church, Seyðisfjarðarkirkja, framed by a rainbow-colored street and surrounded by colourful houses and waterfalls, is a total vibe. Plus, the drive to get here over mountain passes is an adventure in itself.
Don’t miss: Grabbing coffee and soaking up the artsy, creative energy in town.
7. Hverir Geothermal Area – Mars, But Make It Iceland
Step into a sci-fi movie at Hverir, a bubbling, steaming, sulfur-scented geothermal field near Lake Mývatn. Mud pots gurgle, steam vents hiss, and the ground is every shade of red, orange, and yellow. It’s raw, smelly, and completely fascinating.
Don’t miss: A short walk around the area—just stay on the paths (the ground is boiling, after all).
8. Blue Lagoon – Iceland’s Most Famous Soak
Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s 100% worth it. The Blue Lagoon is the ultimate Iceland road trip reward—especially after a few days of hiking, wind, and gravel roads. Soak in steamy, milky-blue geothermal water while surrounded by mossy lava fields. Bliss.
Don’t miss: Booking in advance (it does sell out), and treating yourself to a silica mud mask while floating.
9. Dynjandi – The Westfjords’ Waterfall Wonder
In the wild, lesser-visited Westfjords, you’ll find Dynjandi, a massive multi-tiered waterfall that fans out like a bridal veil. It’s one of the most beautiful and underrated falls in Iceland. The short hike to the base passes several smaller waterfalls, each one better than the last.
Don’t miss: Spending time in this peaceful, remote area—without the big crowds.
10. Látrabjarg Cliffs – Puffin Paradise
If puffins are on your Iceland wishlist, head to Látrabjarg, the westernmost point of Europe. These dramatic cliffs stretch for 14 km and are home to thousands of puffins in summer. They nest right on the cliff edge, so you can get surprisingly close (just don’t fall off—seriously).
Don’t miss: Puffin-spotting between May and August, and the incredible coastal views all around.
Iceland Road Trip Tips
- Allow at least 10–14 days if you want to do the full Ring Road without rushing.
- Book accommodation in advance, especially in summer.
- Fuel up often—gas stations can be sparse in remote areas.
- Layer up—the weather changes every five minutes (not kidding).
- Respect nature—stick to marked paths and don’t touch the moss!
An Iceland road trip is pure magic. Every bend in the road reveals something new: a thundering waterfall, a mossy lava field, a curious puffin, or an epic mountain vista. Whether you’re chasing glaciers, soaking in hot springs, or just pulling over for the 100th photo of the day, Iceland will take your breath away—over and over again.
So grab your rental car, load up on snacks, and get ready for the ultimate Icelandic adventure.
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Jess at Sea 
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