What to See in Iceland: 20 Places You Don’t Want to Miss

Experience Iceland with a Self-Drive Adventure

There’s no shortage of jaw-dropping scenery in Iceland. For UK and North American visitors, a self-drive road trip is the best way to experience the island’s freedom, wilderness and wonder. Whether you collect your hire car at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) or choose a Reykjavík city rental, every mile promises discovery.

At Höldur, Iceland’s trusted car hire company since 1966 and part of the Europcar network, we make your journey seamless and sustainable — so you can explore confidently, comfortably and with respect for nature.

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Top 20 Attractions in Iceland for Self-Drive Travelers

 

1. Þingvellir National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cornerstone of Icelandic history and geology. Walk between continents, explore Almannagjá gorge, and feel Iceland’s volcanic energy beneath your feet.

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2. Gullfoss Waterfall

The magnificent Golden Falls on the Golden Circle route. Drive here from Reykjavík and witness raw power as glacial waters cascade into a dramatic canyon.

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3. Geysir Geothermal Area

Home to the original ‘geyser’. Strokkur erupts every few minutes — a thrilling natural show for anyone exploring Iceland by car.

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4. Seljalandsfoss

A waterfall you can walk behind —  Seljalandsfoss is just off Route 1. A self-drive makes it easy to arrive early or stay for the sunset glow.

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5. Skógafoss

Just a 30-minute drive from Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most photogenic spots — wide, tall and roaring.

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6. Reynisfjara & Vík

Explore black sands, basalt columns and Atlantic waves. Take care — strong currents here make it spectacular but wild.

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7. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Icebergs drift through this Glacier Lagoon and wash ashore on nearby Diamond Beach — a surreal sight best enjoyed on your own schedule with a rental car.

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8. Vatnajökull National Park

Home to Europe’s largest glacier and endless hiking and ice-caving opportunities. The freedom of car hire in Iceland makes exploring this region effortless.

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9. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

A microcosm of Iceland — glaciers, lava fields, cliffs, villages and folklore. A scenic drive from Reykjavík.

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10. Dynjandi Waterfall, Westfjords

The “jewel of the Westfjords” — a breathtaking reward for those who venture off the main tourist routes. Your hire car gives you the independence to reach it.

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11. Akureyri

Akureyri is Iceland’s northern capital offers charm, coffee culture, and easy access to the Arctic Circle’s dramatic landscapes.

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12. Lake Mývatn

Lava formations, geothermal pools and birdlife await. A visit to Lake Mývatn is a highlight of any north Iceland itinerary.

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13. Kirkjufell

Perhaps Iceland’s most photographed mountain — Kirkjufell is best viewed at sunrise or sunset when light paints the peak.

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14. Landmannalaugar

A highland paradise of rainbow-coloured ridges and natural hot springs. Requires a  4×4 vehicle (available through Höldur) and is open only in summer.

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15. Húsavík

Known as Iceland’s whale-watching capital, it combines sea adventures with scenic driving routes through the north.

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16. Seljavallalaug Pool

One of Iceland’s oldest geothermal pools. Seljavallalaug is tucked away near Eyjafjallajökull. Easily reached with a car from the South Coast.

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17. Hverfjall Crater

A short hike up this vast volcanic crater rewards you with dramatic vistas of Iceland’s northern terrain.

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18. The Blue Lagoon

A world-famous spa near KEF Airport — ideal for your first or last Icelandic stop. Combine your visit with convenient car hire at Keflavík Airport.

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19. Reykjanes Peninsula

A volcanic wonderland close to Reykjavík. Explore geothermal fields, cliffs and bridges between continents.

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20. Þórsmörk

Nestled between glaciers and accessible only by 4×4, Þórsmörk is a paradise for hikers and photographers seeking true Icelandic wilderness.

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Why Choose Car Hire in Iceland?

A self-drive holiday with Höldur-Europcar means:

• Pick-up and drop-off at Keflavík Airport or Reykjavík

• Freedom to choose your route, pace and stops

• Access to remote natural wonders

• Comfort and safety with well-maintained vehicles and seasonal tyres

• Eco-friendly options such as our electric rentals

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Planning Tips for a Smooth Journey

Weather and Road Conditions

Iceland’s weather by month changes quickly. Check vedur.is for forecasts and road.is for real-time conditions before driving.

Driving and Safety

• Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on gravel, 90 km/h on paved rural roads.

• Headlights: Must be on at all times.

• Winter tyres: Fitted by Höldur during cold months for safety.

• No off-road driving: Protect Iceland’s fragile moss and landscapes.

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FAQs: Driving & Sightseeing in Iceland

Can I drive in Iceland with a UK or US licence?

Yes — both are valid. No international permit required for standard cars.

Do I need a 4×4 vehicle?

Not for major sights like the Golden Circle or South Coast. A 4×4 is needed for highlands and F-roads.

What’s the best time of year to visit?

June–August for mild weather and midnight sun; November–March for snow and northern lights.

How long to drive around Iceland?

Around 7–10 days for the full Ring Road, depending on stops.

What’s the official language of Iceland?

Icelandic — but English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and car rental offices.

How cold does it get in Iceland?

Winter averages between –2 °C and 4 °C in Reykjavík; colder inland. Summer averages 10–15 °C.

What’s the cost of petrol in Iceland?

Fuel averages ISK 300–350 per litre. Electric charging points are growing across the country.

Should I rent a car in Iceland?

Absolutely — car hire in Iceland offers freedom, flexibility and comfort unmatched by tours, especially for UK and US travellers used to driving independence.

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Final Thoughts

From waterfalls and volcanoes to glaciers and geothermal pools, Iceland invites exploration at every turn. With a Höldur rental car, you set your own pace — guided by local expertise, sustainability and genuine Icelandic hospitality.

So, grab the keys, check the map, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Your Icelandic journey starts with Höldur — the warm, trusted travel companion every explorer dreams of.

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