Hot springs and hot chicks under the northern lights

Honestly. Whoever named a place so vibrantly warm ‘Iceland’ did the country a serious disservice. Because if you think only of glaciers and freezing cold temperatures when you hear Iceland, the country has a whole world of surprises waiting for you. The real Iceland is way hotter than its name. And an Iceland Holiday? Even more so.

Surrounded by imposing mountains, mist-shrouded bays and the Atlantic Ocean, the country is a rich blend of nature, history, and contemporary Nordic culture. Perfect for visitors seeking a holiday full of scenic beauty and rich culture.

And the experiences Iceland has to offer! Gazing at Icelandic night skies full of stars and the softly illuminated Northern lights, after a toasty evening of lounging in the milky blue waters of the Blue Lagoon. All the while surrounded by those majestic mountains and seas. Enough to make it feel like an entirely different life.

But Iceland is not just scenic beauty and experiences that feel like you're in a fairytale. It is also the street life, the food, and the rich culture that add to the warmth of the country. The rainbow-colored streets of Reykjavik, lined with cosy cafes, and biting into one of the world's most famous hotdogs while sightseeing Iceland's landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja Church or the Harpa Concert Hall will make your holiday unforgettable. You can find all of this in Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik itself.

While some experiences may be limited to specific months or seasons, travellers can visit any time of the year, and there will always be something magical that will take your breath away. Whether you're looking for an adventurous solo trip, a family holiday or a short romantic getaway, Iceland will always make it special for you.

If you're looking for the best itinerary to explore the Land of Ice and Fire, this list of things to do is for you.

Take a dip in the blue lagoon

Okay, let's be honest. No Iceland holiday is properly done without a trip to the country’s most iconic attraction, the Blue Lagoon.

Located in a volcanic lava field on the Reykjanes peninsula, this world-famous geothermal spa is unlike anything else you've ever seen. As soon as you arrive, you'll be greeted by clouds of warm steam rising from the milky-blue water, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere against the rugged black lava fields.

The lagoon’s mineral-rich seawater is also heated to 37-40°C (98-104°F), making it a toasty and worthy experience for every season and occasion. If you're visiting in Summer, Iceland also enjoys nearly 24 hours of daylight, allowing visitors to soak beneath the midnight sun well into the evening. But in Winter, it becomes even more enchanting as the possibility of seeing the Northern lights overhead adds more to the magic.

Whether it's a romantic day in summer or you're dipping in after a productive day exploring the streets of Reykjavik, the warm seawater will deliver deliciously.

As a bonus, the silica-rich water is also good for your skin. The natural silica in the Blue Lagoon will improve your skin's collagen synthesis, helping maintain its firmness and elasticity. It is also said to improve hydration and create a glowing, filtered effect by absorbing the excess sebum on your skin.

So when you book your Iceland trip, know that it's not just for yourself; it's a win for your skin as well!

Chase the Northern lights

If you're a true globetrotter at heart, we know this one has been on your bucket list since the very beginning (maybe even checked off now, but no harm in going back and back again). Because nothing is ever quite as magical as the Northern lights. And watching these ribbons of green, gold, and purple is an experience that the cameras just couldn't do justice to.

The coolest part? Iceland is known as one of the best places to see the aurora borealis. Between the equinox months of September and April, the long dark nights provide the best conditions, with the northern lights most commonly appearing between 9pm and 2am.

If you're planning your holiday around chasing these magical lights, then between September and March are the best times to visit because the increased solar activity and considerably stable weather conditions will offer you the highest statistical chances for that. But the darkest months between November and January, with their longest nights, will also give travellers a chance to witness this gorgeous light show of the heavens.

Explore the stunning capital of Reykjavik

While Iceland is most known for its beautiful natural offerings, its capital city of Reykjavik is equally deserving of your time.

Located in Southwestern Iceland, Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital of an independent country. Which means that unlike most other capitals, this city is surrounded by majestic mountains like Mount Esja and a coastline made up of peninsulas, bays, coves, narrow straits, and small islands, giving it a breathtaking waterfront.

The city streets, like the Pinterest-worthy rainbow street, are charming, and lined with colourful houses filled with boutique shops, cafes, and impressive street art, creating a cosy, warm environment that is easy to fall in love with.

A visit to the city will also not be complete without seeing the Hallgrímskirkja Church, one of the most iconic landmarks of Europe and the second tallest building in all of Iceland. 

The Harpa Concert Hall is another must-see, where the shimmering glass façade reflects the changing Icelandic light throughout the day. It has now become one of Iceland's most recognised architectural landmarks, hosting concerts, performances, and festivals throughout the year.

It's also one of the venues for Iceland Airwaves, the country's most famous annual music festival, held every November. If you plan to visit in November, attending this festival is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Reykjavik's vibrant cultural scene.

Taste Iceland's favourite comfort foods

Every good holiday includes unforgettable food, and we promise, Iceland's offerings are exceptional.  

One of Iceland's most iconic foods is the Pylsur, or pulsa, Iceland's famous hotdogs. While it may look simple, locals consider it an essential part of the experience.

Unlike traditional hot dogs, Iceland's Pylsur is made of a unique blend that includes lamb, giving it a distinct flavour. It's topped with a signature mix of raw white onions, crispy deep-fried onions, ketchup, pylsusinnep (a mild sweet brown mustard), and a creamy mayonnaise-based remoulade.

The combination of these sweet, savoury, and crunchy textures has given it cult status among locals and tourists alike. And who are we to ever say no?

For dessert, don't leave the country without trying one of their Kleinur, the Icelandic twisted doughnut enjoyed by locals for generations. Lightly sweetened, delicately spiced, and oh so wonderfully soft, this is a must-try. You can grab one at a local bakery, grocery store, gas station, or cafe.

Why is visiting Iceland totally worth it?

Only a few destinations offer such variety in one place. Fire and ice exist side by side. Ancient volcanoes sit beside vast glaciers. Modern architecture complements the country's natural beauty. Thermal seawater outdoor spas and ice caves that you can climb. And despite the name, everything's so incredibly hot. In a good way.

The thing with Iceland is that little of the entire experience could be captured through words. Or even by a camera. You just have to be there.

If you're ready to take a trip and experience this magic for yourself, book a trip with Blue Lotus Vacations UK's 3-night Icelandic adventure tour that will leave you happily dazed for months.