Reykjanes Peninsula
What Travelers Should Know
The Reykjanes Peninsula is one of Iceland's most fascinating regions and the first place many visitors experience after landing, as Keflavík International Airport is located here, about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, lava fields, rugged coastline, and steaming hot springs, the peninsula offers an excellent introduction to Iceland's unique natural beauty. It's also one of the easiest areas to explore on a half-day or full-day excursion.
Day One-Explore The Reykjanes Peninsula
Often overlooked by travelers heading directly to Reykjavík or the South Coast, the Reykjanes Peninsula offers many of Iceland's signature landscapes in a relatively compact area. With active volcanoes, geothermal wonders, black lava fields, coastal cliffs, and world-famous hot springs all within easy reach of the airport, it's one of the best places to experience Iceland's powerful geology and natural beauty—even if you only have a day to explore.
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Travel Tips
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The peninsula is an excellent destination for your first or last day in Iceland because of its close proximity to the airport.
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Weather can change rapidly, and the area is often windier than Reykjavík, so wear waterproof layers and sturdy shoes.
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Always stay on marked trails around geothermal areas and volcanic sites, where the ground can be unstable.
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Check current volcanic and road conditions before visiting, as active eruptions or geothermal activity may temporarily close certain areas.
Area Highlights-Things to See and Do
The Blue Lagoon
Visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's most popular geothermal spas. You can also stay at the hotel there instead of in Rekyhavik if you want too.
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Things to Know about the Blue Lagoon:
1. YOU MUST PRE-BOOK your Visit. This is why it is important to decide if you will see this area at the beginning or end of your trip. I will take care of these details for you when I set up your itinerary.
2. Entrances to the Blue Lagoon is timed but once you enter-you can stay for as long as you want.
3. People usually visit the Blue Lagoon upon arrival to Iceland given that your flight from the US and Canada lands very early in the morning. ​
4. The Blue Lagoon does have a safe and secure area to store your luggage but you won't need to worry about this if you have rented your own car.
5. Pack your swim suit into your carry on within a sealed plastic storage bag for easy transport after you get wet.
6. The Facility will provide you a towel
7. DON'T FORGET YOUR CAMERA AND CREDIT CARD!
8. Drinks are charged on your wristband and you will check out all purchases using your credit card upon leaving.
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Second Option:
Visit the Sky Lagoon's website to see if this might be a better vibe for you. I can book you at either place depending upon which one you choose.
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Explore recent volcanic landscapes created by eruptions near Fagradalsfjall and the nearby Gunnuhver, where volcanic activity has reshaped the terrain in recent years.
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Pro Tip: Gunnuhver and the Reykjanesviti Lighthouse are in close proximity to each other so that makes a nice two-fer stop location.
Stand on the Bridge Between Continents, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
Visit Reykjanesviti Lighthouse, Iceland's oldest lighthouse, overlooking dramatic sea cliffs and crashing Atlantic waves.
Hallgrímskirkja Church
Explore Reykjavic
Things to Do in the Late Afternoon/Evening. Keep in mind you will be good and tired by this time so if you didn't take a quick nap after check in....you are running on pure Icelandic adrenaline.
1. Do a Food Tour (book here)
2. Walk to Hallgrímskirkja Church for the views overlooking the city. PRO TIP: The Food Tour will actually take you by here. It will also take you down Laugavegur & Skólavörðustígur, the main shopping/dining streets in Reykjavik.
3. Have a drink at Lemmy's Bar -for Moterhead and Rock N Roll Fans. Lemmy's serves traditional pub grub.
4. Take a 30 Min adventure into the Magic Ice Bar and Gallery
5. Chase the Northern Lights on a 9pm cruise!
My Two Favorite Places I ate while in Reykjavic:
5. Head down the Historic Waterfront and eat at Kaffivagninn, the oldest restaurant in Iceland, which is situated by the harbor in downtown Reykjavík. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
6. Splurged at The Fish Company ​​​​
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