Iceland

Travel in Iceland is highly seasonal. Visit between November and February for the Northern Lights, but be aware that it’s cold, daylight is in short supply, and sightings need a clear night and aren’t guaranteed.

Visit between June and August to bask in the midnight sun, with up to 23 hours of daylight. Summer is, of course, peak season, so flights and accommodation will be more expensive. But it’s the best time to be outdoors, with a raft of activities available.

Spring and autumn can also be good for getting outdoors with fewer crowds – but more chance of rain.

If you’re flying into Keflavik International Airport, Reykjavik is approx 40 minutes away. Hire a car or take the Flybus, which works out significantly cheaper than a taxi.

The island’s other main access point is the ferry port of Seydisfjordur in eastern Iceland. Buses link up with ferry crossings to take you to Reykjavik (approx 8-hour journey).

It’s a good idea to hire a car if you’re coming to Iceland to see more than Reykjavik (which is best seen on foot or by bike). Iceland is ringed by Route 1, the only major road, linking all the major towns; roads in the highlands and centre of Iceland can be closed for part of the year by bad weather. There are car rental offices at Keflavik Airport, Reykjavik and Akureyri.

Note that petrol in Iceland is expensive, and outside the main towns, petrol stations can be few and far between.

First-time visitors will certainly want to spend a couple of days in Reykjavik, which acts as a good base for visits to Thingvellir National Park, Geysir and Gullfoss, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula (a lengthy day trip away). You can take day trips from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar in the central highlands too.

Akureyri is the main place to stay if you’re visiting the natural wonders of Myvatn or whale watching in Husavik.

Hella is a good option if you’re investigating the southern reaches, including Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon; Seydisfjordur is the hub for eastern Iceland.