Let’s get this out of the way – there is no one-size-fits-all itinerary for ten days in Iceland. Where you should go, how long you should stay, and what you should see and do will depend on a number of factors. So before you even start thinking about how to plan your trip, think about these factors first.

• What time of year are you coming to visit? In winter, some areas will be completely inaccessible while others will require a 4WD vehicle to reach. Where you go may be dictated by the season.
• What’s your budget? If you’re trying to save, you may want to think about ditching the rental car for a few days, which means either staying in Reykjavik and doing day trips with a tour, or relying on public transport (easier in peak season) or hitchhiking, both of which can slow your pace of travel.
• Do you like to go, go, go, or would you rather take it slow? How many hours per day do you want to spend in the car? And would you rather make one place a “home base” and do day trips, or pack up each day and stay somewhere new each night?
• Do you need a plan or do you like to play it by ear?

Based on these factors, you can choose one of the options below, or use one of these ideas as a jumping off point to create your own custom trip. The ideas for itineraries are as diverse as Iceland’s landscapes, as unique as each individual traveler. Two of these ideas circle the island, but you could also pick a region and explore in depth.

The “see it all” route

This one is for the person who wants to see the highlights of each of Iceland’s regions, and doesn’t mind traveling at a frenetic pace to do so. Because this route travels both on and off the Ring Road, veering up into the Westfjords and into the interior, you’ll need a well-equipped 4WD vehicle and you’ll need to be traveling in summer – particularly because you’ll need the long hours of daylight if you have any chance of completing this packed itinerary. This means you’ll need a bigger budget (for that pricey rental and gas) though you should also be prepared to rough it a bit (pack a sleeping bag) as accommodation in some areas may be limited during peak season.

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You can choose the direction to head but the main stops/legs will be:

Day 1: Reykjavik through the Golden Circle (Thingvellir, Blue Lagoon and Gullfoss) to Landmannalaugar
Day 2: hiking in Landmannalaugar or Thorsmork
Day 3: drive to Vik and then onward to Jökulsárlón to visit glacier lagoon, onward to Egilsstaðir
Day 4: Egilsstaðir drive to Dettifoss Waterfall and Ásbyrgi canyon, then on to Husavik (could visit Lake Myvatn and Myvatn Nature Baths, or see Godafoss waterfall along the way) or morning whale watching from town
Day 5: morning whale watching and then stay overnight again or drive to Akureyri and stay there
Day 6: Akureyri or Husavik to Isafjordur (longest day, 7-8 hour drive)
Day 7: Isafjordur day trips to climb a glacier, visit the cliffs at Látrabjarg, or the nature reserve at Hornstrandir
day 8: Ferry from Isafjordur to Stykkisholmer on Snaefellsness Peninsula, drive to Grundarfjörður
Day 9: Circle tour of Snaefellsness Peninsula – day trips for horsebackriding, glacier walking, or caving, or drive on to Reykjavik
Day 10: Explore Reykjavik, visit Blue Lagoon

If you’d rather spend more time in one area, just cut out another (for example skipping the Westfjords and the Snaefellesness Peninsula will free up several days). Alternatively, you can do a partial trip around the country, concentrating on the north and west, or the east and south.

>> Learn more about places in North Iceland

Ring Road adventures

This route takes in some of the same great sights as the first option, but allows for a slower pace and skips some destinations further off the Ring Road, which means you can go with a less expensive car, and you can accomplish it in winter, even with limited hours of sunlight. If you prefer to go a bit slower but still want to see a lot of the famous sights, this is a good choice, especially as it allows more time for activities.

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Again, you can go in either direction, but the main stops/legs will be:

Day 1: Reykjavik to Vik, by way of the Golden Circle
Day 2: stay overnight in Vik and go dogsledding, or drive Vik to Egilsstaðir, with a stop at the Jökulsárlón lagoon
Day 3: see day 2, or drive Egilsstaðir to Husavik, with a stop at Ásbyrgi canyon
Day 4: see day 3, or do second night in Husavik, with morning whale watching and then afternoon at Myvatn Nature Baths and Godafoss waterfall
Day 5: see day 4, or drive from Husavik back to Reykjavik
Day 6-10: see day 5, or explore Reykjavik with day trips (or stay more time in Husavik or Akureryi, or add a few days in the Westfjords or Snaefellsness Peninsula)

This route takes you past the highlights of the south, skims through the east on its way north, and then returns to Reykjavik for a few days of day trips like glacier walking, horseback riding, ATVing, snorkeling, and cultural tours. You could also extend the trip around the country by doing more activities along the way.

No driving/winter visit itinerary

When visiting in winter (or really October through April), you’ll want to be conscious of two factors that can affect where you go: the weather and the shorter hours of daylight. You can easily get around in winter near Reykjavik without a 4WD vehicle, but some areas of the Ring Road will be more difficult to manage. You’ll also need to travel at a slower pace, especially when the days are at their shortest (around mid-December). Unless you plan to rent a 4WD vehicle, your best bet is probably to stay near the capital. Luckily, there is plenty to see and do in and around Reykjavik to keep you busy for 10 days.

Plan on 2-3 days for sightseeing and shopping around the city, then budget 4-6 days for day trips like cave exploring, ATV driving, glacier walking, snorkeling, horseback riding, dog sledding, and venturing as far as Vik. Save one day for the Golden Circle tour; if you have time and are so inclined, you can even take a day trip by plane to Akureyri or Isafjordur with AirIceland.

>> Start with our five day itinerary and add more activities to create your perfect trip

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>> Read more about what to do in Reykjavik or find day trips from Reykjavik

Original article can be found here: Itinerary Ideas: 10 Days in Iceland

In the early days of Iceland’s settlement, the people had to make do with what they could scrape from the country’s unforgiving land or frigid sea. They had to be creative. While modern Icelanders have the luxury of using imported goods from around the world to create inventive and delicious dishes, some of the most famous Icelandic foods still use those old recipes handed down from the early generations hundreds of years ago.

While you could sample everything from Mexican and Indian cuisine to sushi or Italian, it’d be a shame to visit Iceland without trying at least one of these famous foods.

Plokkfiskur

Plokkfiskur is a traditional Icelandic fish dish (and one of my personal favorite things to eat). It’s rich and filling, perfect for cold, dark days, and was devised as an ingenious way to make something delicious out of leftover fish.  The name means “mashed fish” and that’s pretty much what it is, but it’s fish mashed in most appetizing way. Boiled haddock, cod, or halibut is flaked with a fork and then mixed with boiled quartered potatoes and a sauce made of onion, butter, flour and milk. Next, curry powder, salt and pepper are added to season it. Finally,  béarnaise or hollandaise sauce and cheese are added and the dish is grilled until light brown and then served with dark rye bread and butter. It’s on the menu at many traditional restaurants, but Þrir Frakkar is one of the best places to try it.

>> more on Plokkfiskur

Hákarl

Hákarl, a fermented type of shark that is actually poisonous when not prepared this way, is not for the faint of stomach. Its ammonia stench is worse than the taste, but not by much; there’s a reason most people eat it only in small bites and washed down with a big gulp of a strong local booze called brennivin. It might best not to learn how the dish is created until after you’ve tried it, but for the curious: a shark is beheaded and gutted and then placed in a gravelly hole for 6-12 weeks while the poisonous fluids drain and the meat ferments. The result is a meat so foul that famous chef Anthony Bourdain proclaimed it the worst thing he ever ate.

Skyr

Skry, a dairy product that is very high in protein and low in fat, can be found in every grocery and convenience store and in some form on nearly any traditional menu. Though it’s technically a cheese, it looks and tastes like yogurt and is eaten plain, topped with fruit, or mixed into smoothies, dips and desserts.

>> more on Skyr

Whale and puffin

Lamb is a staple red meat throughout Iceland, though horse and reindeer are also sometimes seen on menus. For something even more unusual (though much more controversial), you can try whale, which is a salty red meat usually grilled. Puffin, the adorably awkward seabird, also features prominently and is served grilled or smoked.

>> more on Icelandic delicacies

Hot dogs

The hot dog may not be a traditional Icelandic food, but it is a famous one. The hot dogs in Iceland are no ordinary franks. Made mostly with lamb (and sometimes a little pork) and topped with mustard, ketchup, fried onion, raw onion and remolaði, a mayonnaise-based sauce with sweet relish, they’re found at every gas station in the country, as well as at the Bæjarins beztu pylsur stand in Reykjavik.

>> more on Icelandic hot dogs

More on food in Iceland:

• dining and drinking in Reykjavik
• romantic restaurants in Reykjavik
• dining on a budget in Reykjavik

Photos by: ChrisGoldNY, Jim Purbick, roboppy, reutC, roboppy

Original article can be found here: What to Eat in Iceland: Famous Icelandic Foods

Reykjavik is the capital and largest city in Iceland, and the place most tourists make their home base. Even if you plan on exploring Iceland’s more rugged areas, chances are you’ll spend at least a day in Reykjavik (and you should!). The city is compact and walkable, safe and (with the very notable exceptions of Friday and Saturday nights) very laid back and quiet. You can easily cover the downtown area in a morning’s stroll. But don’t sell the city short; there’s plenty worth seeing and doing here so plan to devote at least a day or two to exploring.

Several outdoor activities are available just outside the city limits as well, including horseback riding trails and the Golden Circle attractions.

Museums

Despite its small size, Reykjavik offers plenty of cultural activities, including several art and history museums that can help visitors gain a better understanding of life in Iceland – both in the past and in modern times. The 871 Settlement Museum is particularly excellent, with comprehensive interactive and multimedia exhibits about life in early Iceland. For art, visit the free Reykjavik Art Museum (RAM) a collection of three buildings scattered around the city, each with a different artistic focus.

>> more on museums in Reykjavik

Shopping

There are two shopping malls in greater Reykjavik, but the best and most unique shops are located in the city center. Laugavegur is the main shopping drag and is home to boutiques in nearly every style and price range.

>> more on shopping in Reykjavik

Eating and drinking

Dining and drinking can be very expensive in Iceland, but that doesn’t stop locals from hitting the town hard on the weekends. The city has a disproportionately large number of restaurants, bars and cafes, serving everything from traditional Icelandic cuisine to French, Indian, and Mexican food.  Thankfully many cheaper options, like pizza, hot dogs, and noodles, are also available.

>> more on  dining and drinking in Reykjavik

Tours

It’s easy to explore Reykjavik on your own – the city is simple to navigate, small, and safe. But a guided tour can help you learn more about the city and the culture than going it alone.  And, one of the best guided walks of the city is totally free.

>> more on guided tours in Reykjavik

Hot springs

Most tourists head to the Blue Lagoon for a good soak, but locals head instead to one of the many city pools, which are cheaper and much less touristed. Swimming and soaking at pools and hot springs is an important part of daily life in Iceland so the Reykjavik city pools are inexpensive and open all year round. Most even offer suits and towels for rent.

>> more on hot springs in Reykjavik

Photo by: Alex J White,

Original article can be found here: Things to Do in Reykjavik

Generally speaking, staying near Keflavik airport isn’t ideal for tourists. The airport is close to an hour from the city of Reykjavik (though only a few minutes from the famed Blue Lagoon in southwest Iceland. However, if you are arriving very late or departing very early and want to stay close by, these are your best options.

Bed and Breakfast Keflavik

Rooms at B&B Keflavik, which is located five minutes from the airport, include free breakfast, free parking, free wi-fi, and private bathrooms. There’s also an exercise room and car rental office onsite.  Rates start at 54 euros per night in winter and 70 euros per night in summer for private single rooms. Discounts are offered for stays of more than two nights.

Alex Guesthouse

Alex Guesthouse offers several accommodation options a two minute drive from the airport. There’s the cozy guesthouse, where rates start at $65, as well as summer huts and camping.  Breakfast, wifi, and transfers to the airport and Blue Lagoon are included.

Hotel Keflavik

Located in Keflavik town, Hotel Keflavik is a short drive away from the airport and the Blue Lagoon. It offers free shuttle rides to each and has a restaurant, bar, coffee shop and gym. Rates for single rooms start at 22,800 ISK (about $190) and doubles start at 27,800.

Icelandair Hotel Flughotel

Also in Keflavik town, the Icelandair Hotel Flughotel has 62 rooms with TV, radio, telephone, mini-bar, wireless Internet, and ensuite bathrooms. Standard rooms start at about 20,000 ISK per night.

The Northern Light Inn

15 minutes from the airport, the Northern Light Inn has 32 cozy rooms with a view of the Blue Lagoon complex. The hotel offers free transfers to the airport and the Blue Lagoon, as well as free internet and free breakfast. Rates start at 140 euros for a double in winter and go up to 190 for a double in summer peak season.

Hotel Berg

Overlooking the town of Keflavik, Hotel Berg is less than ten minutes from the airport by car. Rooms have free wi-fi and mini fridges, and the hotel offers free breakfast and free shuttle service to the airport and Blue Lagoon. Summer prices for double rooms start at 80 euros per night.

Use the widget below to look for more hotels in near Keflavik

Original article can be found here: Reykjavik Airport Hotels

Fall in Iceland is most definitely off season; actually any time other than June – August is off season. If you visit from September to mid-December, you’ll much better deals on flights to Iceland, lower prices on accommodations and car rentals, and far fewer people. And while the days keep getting shorter (and colder) as the days creep towards December, you’ll find that with the exception of a few activities, you can do almost anything in the fall that you can do during peak summer season. Here are some of the best things to do in Iceland during the fall season.

>> Read more about weather in Iceland
>> Iceland in September
>> Iceland in October
>> Iceland in November
>> what to wear in Iceland in fall

The Golden Circle

Iceland’s most famous attractions (other than the Blue Lagoon, which can also be visited year round), the Golden Circle includes Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir. The roads are mostly paved and well-maintained so if you won’t want to join a tour, it’s easy to drive yourself. As it gets closer to winter, just be aware of limited hours of daylight and dress warmly and in sturdy shoes – the sloping path to the Gullfoss viewpoint can be at times either very muddy, covered in snow, or slick with ice.

Horseback riding

The adorable stout and friendly Icelandic horse was built for the country’s climate. They’re surefooted in all conditions and have a thick coat of fur to keep them warm, which means you can go riding any time of year. The farm you book with will also provide you with a warm suit that will keep you cozy in any conditions.

Diving in Silfra

When the temperatures are in the high 30′s to mid 40′s, the last thing you might be thinking about it diving or snorkeling. But you can do it all year round at Thingvellir, where the Mid-Atlantic rift runs through the park and under the crystal clear Silfra lake. If you’re dive certified you can descend into the crack between the two tectonic plates; if not, don a dry suit and you can float above, staying surprisingly warm and dry.

Diving, dogsledding, cave exploring and ATV driving are just a few of the other outdoor activities available all year round.

Explore Reykjavik

The natural wonders of Iceland are the main draw, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook Reykjavik. With plenty of museums, great dining, a lively nightlife, and excellent shopping, it’s a worthy attraction in its own right, so plan to spend at least a day in the city.

Take a day tour

If you visit Iceland later in the season and are worried about driving, or if you simply don’t want to rent a car, there are dozens of day tours to choose from.  You can explore the regions nearby, get up close to glaciers and volcanoes, or participate in outdoor adventures like hiking or snowmobiling, all within an hour or two’s drive of Reykjavik. If you’d prefer to see another side of the country, you can even do an AirIceland day trip, flying to  the Westman Islands, Isafjordur in the Westfjords, Akureyri in north Iceland, or even to Greenland and then back again in a single day.

Photo by axelkr

Original article can be found here: Things to Do in Iceland in Fall

Autumn begins Iceland’s off-season, after the peak travel season of mid-June to late August. But that doesn’t mean it’s a bad time to visit. While you won’t see the Midnight Sun, temperatures will be lower, and some areas will no longer be accessible, there’s still plenty of reason to explore Iceland in the fall.

In September, the Northern Lights make their first appearance; in the beginning of the month you’ll still have some nice, sunny days with highs around 10°C (50°F) and lows around 5°C (40°F). October sees the most rain and temps begin to dip further, with averages ranging from 2.2-6.8°C (35-44°F). By November, winter has surely arrived, with temperatures ranging from 3.4 to -1.3°C (30-44°F) and snow beginning to blanket many areas.

The hours of sunlight each day also decrease in fall. In September the sun rises around 6:30am and sets around 7:30pm. By November sunrise has been delayed until 9:30am, while the sun sets again by about 4pm.

>> Read more about weather in Iceland
>> Iceland in September
>> Iceland in October
>> Iceland in November

Though the weather isn’t as nice as it is in summer, luckily you can still do most of the same activities in fall that you can in warmer months. Go horseback riding, soak in the Blue Lagoon, visit waterfalls and glaciers and explore caves and black sand beaches. You can even snorkel (all year round) at the rift at Thingvellir National Park.

And the good news is that you’ll save money, not only on all these activities and your accommodation, but also on the flight over. While flights from the east coast of the US can be $800-$1000 (or more) in summer, as the fall creeps on, prices get lower. Flights to Iceland in September might range from $500-$600, while in November you can often score a package that includes flights and accommodations for under $450. Hotels and tour operators generally switch to off season prices by the first week in September so you’ll save even more.

>> Read more about things to do in Iceland

Packing for Iceland in fall isn’t much more challenging that summer, though there will be a bit of fluctuation depending on when in the fall you visit. In September you may be able to get away with a lighter jacket while by November you’ll want to pack a warm winter coat. No matter when you come, bank on layers, a good pair of shoes or boots for outdoor activity, and a hat, gloves, and scarf.

>> Read more on what to wear in Iceland in fall

There are a few festivals and events that take place in the autumn. In September, farmers round up their sheep and horses from the mountains in the Rettir, in which at many farms, guests are invited to participate. September also sees the Reykjavik Film Festival featuring films from around the world. And the most popular event for music lovers takes place in October, when the annual Iceland Airwaves Music Festival comes to town.

>> Read more on festivals and events in Iceland

Photo by DrBurtoni

Original article can be found here: Iceland in Fall

Vik is the southernmost village in Iceland, located off the Ring Road about 180 kilometers from Reykjavik. Despite its small size of about 300 people, it’s one of the largest villages in south Iceland and the largest for about 50 miles. There’s a supermarket, bank, post office, campground, hostel and three other lodging accommodations, plus a restaurant, church, and popular wool factory.

In truth, there’s not much to see and do here, yet Vik remains a popular stop on the Ring Road thanks to its beautiful black sand beaches and rocky cliffs, which are home to thousands of puffins in summer. Vik is also a convenient base for exploring more of south Iceland.

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Car

If you are coming from Reykjavik, the easiest way is to come by car – either as part of a tour or on your own. The distance is about 180 kilometers, which at a decent clip would take about three hours. But this is Iceland, and you’re probably going to want to stop along the way to take photos of those black sand beaches, or of the majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, or of any other sites that strike your fancy. So allow more like four hours to make the trip, more in inclement weather.

By bus

In summer, buses leave from Reykjavik to Vik once per day. The ride takes about 4 hours. Winter buses run less frequently but take less time (thanks to fewer stops).  The fare is about $50 US.

>> Read more about getting around in Iceland

Original article can be found here: Traveling to Vik from Reykjavik

Though I live in Chicago, there’s no place I feel more at home in than Iceland. From the moment I saw the lights of Keflavik airport blinking in the darkness after the (surprisingly short) flight from New York, it just felt familiar, comfortable. Since then that feeling has only gotten stronger. Though I spend most of my days in an apartment thousands of miles away, my heart is in Reykjavik. So when National Geographic asked me to complete their “I Heart My City” questionnaire for Reykjavik, I was thrilled.

From where I go for late night eats to what I do when I’m feeling cash-strapped, you’ll find all my best tips for seeing Reykjavik like a local in my answers. So if you’re dying to know which celebrity the city would be (hint: she’s pretty and feisty) or which song most reminds of Reykjavik, click on over and read it here: I Heart My City: Katie’s Reykjavik.

Or read more about Reykjavik:

• Museums in Reykjavik
• Attractions in Reykjavik
• Accommodation in Reykjavik
• Dining and Drinking in Reykjavik

Photo by Alex J. White

Original article can be found here: I Heart My City: Katie’s Reykjavik

Most cold-weather destinations and Scandinavian countries aren’t typically thought of as romantic destinations, and Iceland is no exception. The food can seem a bit strange at first, the accent doesn’t exactly make foreigners swoon, and few people look sexy in cold-weather outdoor gear.

But if beautiful vistas and the raw power of nature are what set your pulse to racing, you may find that Iceland in fact is a surprisingly prefect honeymoon destination, with lots of romantic things to do. If you’re looking for a romantic hotel or one perfect for a honeymoon in Iceland, here are a few suggestions.

Hotel Budir – Snaefellsness Peninsula

Located on the Snaefellsness Peninsula on Iceland’s west coast (just a few hours from Reykjavik), Hotel Budir is in one of the most spectacular settings in the country. The spacious rooms all have tvs, dvd players, hair dryers, clock radios and wireless internet. Some have clawfoot tubs and leather club chairs. Breakfast is included, there’s free parking and a renowned hotel onsite, and the hotel is close to activities like sailing, horseback riding, hiking, golf , glacier tours, fly fishing, and mountain-jeep trips. But the real draw is the location. Each room has views of the fjords, mountains or glacier, and in winter, it’s a prime viewing spot for the northern lights.

Winter rates for double rooms start at 19,500 ISK ($168 US); summer rates start at 28,500 ISK.

Glymur Resort – Southwest Iceland

About 45 minutes outside of Reykjavik, Glymur is ideal for those who want to see the beauty of Iceland without venturing too far from the capital. The 22 executive rooms at the Glymur Resort all have high speed wireless internet access, flat screen tvs, telephones,  hairdryers and  coffee machines, and are styled with modern Italian leather furniture and original art. And each one boasts a view of either the fjords or mountains of  southwest Iceland. The suites are even more luxurious, with massage bath tubs, flat screen tvs in the bedroom and living room, adjustable beds with massage, espresso machines and stereo equipment. And for the ultimate indulgence, spring for the villas, with have leather sofas, large screen tvs, dining tables and  verandas with hot thermal Jacuzzis.

Summer room rates start at 249 euros. Summer prices on the villas range from 199-439 euros, with the price decreasing the longer you stay.

Hotel Ranga – South Iceland

One of the “Great Hotels of the World,” Hotel Ranga (top picture) offers 51 rooms and suites in the countryside of South Iceland. Superior and deluxe rooms offer telephone, bathtub and shower,  bathrobes and slippers, desk, cabinet, mini bar, hairdryer,  heating, tv and free wifi Internet, with rooms facing either the riverside or Mt. Hekla . Most have indoor or outdoor Jacuzzis. There are also several suites in the “World Pavilion” which are designed to represent locations around the world. There’s black and white Antarctica (complete with penguins) and Asia’s simplistic Cherry Blossom Suite.

The hotel – the only 4-star hotel in Iceland – is about an hour away from Reykjavik and offers one of Iceland’s best hotels. Summer room rates start at 280 euros.

Kaldbak-Kot Cottages – North Iceland

Few people would categorize the Kaldbak-Kot Cottages as luxurious. The beds and bedding are comfortable but not lavish, the couches clean but slightly worn, the bathrooms small but adequate. Yet, if you can appreciate a more rustic charm, these log cabins and their spectacular fjord-and-mountain views might just be your idea of the perfect honeymoon accommodation. There are 18 cottages scattered across the property, each one facing west  and providing beautiful sunset views each night. Just a few kilometers (about a 15 minute walk) from the small town of Husavik, their porches and secluded hot tubs also make for prime Northern Lights viewing spots. Rates range from 95-135 euros for the one bedroom cottages; larger cottages are available as well.

Room with a View – Reykjavik

While there are other luxury hotels in Reykjavik, Room with a View is my pick for the best for a romantic trip or a honeymoon. Located right in the city center, the hotel’s rooms and apartments offer cd players, tvs, hairdryers, irons, free wifi, access to common Jacuzzis and a sauna, and – true to the hotel’s name – lovely views of the city. All apartments have private bathrooms and kitchenettes; some have dining rooms and Jacuzzi tubs. All are designed with high-end appliances and modern furnishings, and sleep 2 to 10 people. Summer rates start at 16,900 ISK.

>> Read about other luxury accommodations in Iceland

Photo by:  tompagenet, Tania Ho

Original article can be found here: Romantic Honeymoon Hotels in Iceland

Due to the high cost of visiting Iceland, even travelers who don’t consider themselves “budget travelers” may have a hard time coming to terms with the prices for accommodations. While private rooms (usually with shared bathrooms) in smaller guesthouses and hostels can be had for around $100 per night, you’ll spend more like $200 on anything even approaching luxury. If you’re looking for a more traditional hotel experience – luxurious queen or king bed, flat screen tv, ensuite bathroom with jacuzzi tub – expect to pay close to $300 per night, and know that you’ll have few options outside of the capital city, Reykjavik.

If you’re looking for upscale accommodation, check out the chain of Icelandair Hotels scattered around the country. There are several around the capital: two in Reykjavik, one near the airport, and two just outside the city. There’s also one in the north near Akureyri, one near Vatnajokull glacier, and one in east Iceland in Egilsstadir. Here’s how they compare.

Reykjavík Natura

One of Icelandair’s Reykjavik accommodations, the four-star Reykjavík Natura (formerly Hotel Loftleidir)is near the Pearl, close to Nauthólsvík thermal beach and the domestic airport. It would be about a 25 minute walk into the city center, though the hotel also runs a free shuttle. There’s a movie theatre, restaurant, spa, bike rental and pool onsite, and the 220 rooms are spacious with modern decor and conveniences like tvs, hair dryers, and wi-fi.


Reykjavik Marina

The other city center accommodation, the Reykjavik Marina hotel will open in April of 2012 with 111 rooms, a gym, bar and restaurant. Located in a three-story building on Myrargata, it will be close to the shops, restaurants, galleries and harbor of Reykjavik.

Hotel Keflavik

On the Reykjanes Peninsula, a 15 minute drive from the Blue Lagoon, the Hotel Keflavik offers excellent accommodation for those with a very early flight out of Iceland. The four-star hotel is five minutes from the Keflavík International Airport and offers a bar and cafe, sauna and fitness center, free wireless internet, free parking, and free transport to the airport after your stay.


>> Read about other hotels near the Blue Lagoon

Hotel Hengill

Close to the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park and the geothermal area on the slopes of Mt. Hengill, a 30-minute drive from Reykjavík, this three-star hotel offers a fitness room, sauna, restaurant and outdoor hot tub. The 22 rooms each have phone, TV, radio and wireless Internet acces, along with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.


Hotel Akureyri

In the north of Iceland, in the country’s second largest city, Hotel Akureyri makes a great base for exploring Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss, Husavik, and the other attractions of northern Iceland.  The hotel offers a restaurant, ski storage room, a bar, and a heated pool and a fitness center within a two-minute walk.

Hotel Hamar

One hour away from Reykjavik, tourists interested in golf can stay at the Hotel Hamar, which offers an 18-hole golf course in West Iceland. The three star hotel also offers a restaurant and bar, and outdoor hot tubs, and the 30 ground floor guestrooms offer modern amenities like hair dryers, tvs and wireless internet.


Hotel Herad

In the east Iceland town of Egilsstadir, the Hotel Herad offers stylish and comfortable accommodation close to some of Iceland’s best outdoor activities like  bird watching, fishing and hiking. The three-star hotel has a bar, restaurant and 24-hour room service, and the 60 ensuite rooms are modern and spacious, decorated with sleekly designed furniture and muted colors.

Hotel Klaustur

Those looking to explore the glaciers of Iceland can stay at Hotel Klauster, which is located mid-way between Myrdalsjokull glacier and Vatnajokull in southern Iceland. The three-star  hotel offers a restaurant and bar, and easy access to a local swimming pool and 9-hole golf course. Standard and superior rooms are available, as well as spacious suites.

Hotel Fludir

On hour away from Reykjavik, the three-star, single-story Hotel Fludir is located in an ideal stop-off point in South Iceland, close to the Golden Circle, excellent hiking spots and outdoor activities like white-water rafting and horseback riding. The 32 guest rooms are all ensuite, with hardwood floors and access to the hotel garden.

Rates at each hotel vary, but expect to pay anywhere from $180 to $350 per night, and even more in high season. However, as Icelandair owns the hotels, it often offers affordable packages that include flight and three nights of hotel for under $600 per person, particularly in off-season.

Original article can be found here: Luxury Accommodations in Iceland: Icelandair Hotels