Why Travel to Eastern Europe for Amazing Architecture?

Chris Boothman
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15
Why Travel to Eastern Europe for Amazing Architecture?

There are certain parts of the world that are just blessed to have an abundance of amazing architecture. If you are considering any form of travel to Eastern Europe in the near future, you will appreciate after reading this post why this is a real gem of a region for breathtaking forms of architectural brilliance.

Inspired by the various historic architectural periods such as the Rennaissance and the Baroque, many Eastern European countries can lay claim to having some of the best architectural structures not only across the continent but also around the world.

We are delighted to collaborate with a number of our friends from our across the globe who have shared some of their favorite Eastern European monuments, landmarks and other forms of architecture.

Brest Fortress & Memorial

brest fortress

Country: Belarus
Address: ГУ «Мемарыяльны комплекс « Брэсцкая крэпасць-герой »», Brest 224018, Belarus

Click here for directions to the Brest Fortress in Belarus using Google Maps

The Brest Fortress is located in Brest, the southwest corner of Belarus, minutes from the Polish Border. I really like this monument as it reminds me of an underdog winning, as they managed to repel the German invasion of the fortress in June 1941 for 8 days, much longer than anyone expected.

travel to eastern europe

The monument is of an injured soldier, attempting to get water having survived days without food and water in the battle. There’s a reason the fortress was named a Hero Fortress in 1965.

Thanks to Jub from Tiki Touring Kiwi for highlighting why Brest Fortress is one of his favorite architectural structures around Europe.

Stari Most

stari most bosnia and herzegovina

Country: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Address: Stari most, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Click here for directions to the Stari Most (Old Bridge) in Bosnia and Herzegovina using Google Maps

The ‘Old Bridge’ or to give it the correct name Bosnia’s Stari Most, Mostar is just as stunning in the flesh as it is in the images online. This stone bridge sits about two hours outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital city, Sarajevo, and can be visited as a day trip or overnight (to avoid the crowds!)

travel to eastern europe

The beautiful blue/green water which Stari Most is built on is the Neretva River. Mostar is not only famous for the bridge but also the divers who take the plunge, for money of course!

Thanks to Gemma and Craig from Two Scots Abroad for highlighting why Stari Most is one of their favorite architectural designs around Europe.

Buzludzha Monument

buzludzha monument bulgaria

Country: Bulgaria
Address: Vrah Hadji Dimitar, връх Хаджи Димитър, 6100, Bulgaria

Click here for directions to the Buzludzha Monument in Bulgaria using Google Maps

Europe is full of impressive architecture but I love discovering more off-beat surprises and Buzludzha, Bulgaria’s UFO-like, abandoned Communist headquarters is one of the most interesting, surreal and unique buildings that I’ve ever seen.

travel to eastern europe

Buzludzha is perched eerily on a mountain top near the pretty medieval town of Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria and it isn’t officially a tourist attraction – I had to climb in through a hole to enter!

inside buzludzha monument

As well as being impressive and uniquely surreal from the outside, inside you can see interesting crumbling communist mosaics and even climb up the tower for amazing views across the mountains (at your own risk of course, as it is a derelict building!).

Buzludzha is quickly crumbling away with the elements so if you want to see a unique piece of communist history, go quickly before it is lost to the forces of nature.

Thanks to Anna from Global Gallivanting and Will from The Broke Backpacker for both recommending the infamous Buzludzha Monument in Bulgaria.

Hungarian Parliament Building

hungarian parliament building budapest

Country: Hungary
Address: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Hungary

Click here for directions to the Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest, Hungary using Google Maps

The Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest is by far my favorite landmark in Europe. The Neo-Gothic architecture is absolutely stunning. Every time I saw even the slightest view of this spectacular building, I would have to stop and stare, and since Parliament sits along the Danube River, there are plenty of places to catch a good view of it.

hungarian parliament budapest hungary

We too have visited the Parliament building while exploring Budapest in one day and we definitely agree with Sadie’s comments that this is one of the most spectacular buildings across Europe. I love the iconic location beside the Danube River and clearly, this is a focal point of Budapest.

hungarian parliament in budapest

Whether you are walking along the banks of the river or perhaps staring down from the Fisherman’s Bastion in the old city, the Parliament is certainly a landmark that you cannot miss…and why would you want to! It’s an amazing architectural design dating back to 1904 when it first opened.

parliament budapest hungary

Thanks to Sadie from Eclectic Trekker for suggesting the Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest as one of the best structures in Europe.

Szechenyi Bath Complex

hungarian thermal baths

Country: Hungary
Address: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Hungary

Click here for directions to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest, Hungary using Google Maps

Everyone who visits Budapest can’t help talk about the city’s beauty. Known as the Paris of the East, Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The city is known for its many thermal baths.

travel to eastern europe

From the early days as a Roman outpost, Budapest has welcomed visitors with natural hot springs to soak and relax. There’s nothing like visiting the massive Szechenyi bath complex and dipping into the hot waters for a few hours. Szechenyi is the most iconic hot springs in the world.

Thanks to Lance and Laura from Travel Addicts for their recommendation of Szechenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest.

Memento Park

memento park budapest

Country: Hungary
Address: Budapest, Balatoni út – Szabadkai utca sarok, 1223 Hungary

Click here for directions to Memento Park in Budapest, Hungary using Google Maps

Do you remember the collapse of the Soviet Union with its nightly television images of jubilant crowds tearing down Soviet statutes? Not every statute was destroyed. Some, about 40, were saved and brought together at Memento Park in Budapest. Today they stand as a fascinating footnote to history – sad and almost forgotten.

memento park budapest hungary

My Tip: Don’t go on a sunny day, try to be there when it is grey and overcast and you might get a sense of the hopelessness felt by the millions who lived under the shadow of such symbols.

Thanks to Lyn from The Travelling Lindfields for her recommendation of Memento Park in Budapest.

Historic Prizren

prizren kosovo

Country: Kosovo
Address: Prizren, Kosovo

Click here for directions to Prizren, Kosovo using Google Maps

Prizren, the second largest city in Kosovo, is my favorite place in the Balkans. It retains a delightful village feel where life goes on slowly, except for the summer when Prizren hosts the Dokufest which attracts over 20,000 people from all over the world.

The old town, with Sinan Pasha Mosque and the Unesco-listed Church of the Virgin of Ljeviš among other important monuments, shows the important role played by the city during the Ottoman and Byzantine empires. Don’t miss the view of the city from the fortress at sunset time, it’s breathtaking.

Thanks to Stefania from Every Steph for her recommendation of visiting Prizren in Kosovo to appreciate a myriad of amazing architecture.

Church of Saint Sava

church of saint sava

Country: Serbia
Address: Belgrade, Serbia

Click here for directions to the St. Sava Church in Belgrade, Serbia using Google Maps

The Chuch of St. Sava is a beautiful piece of Serbian architecture and is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. The church is located in the Vračar district of Belgrade and is hard to miss as it dominates the skyline. This Serbian Orthodox Church is St. Sava’s final resting place, who is the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

It is relatively new to the capital of Serbia and is being completely financed by donations. This is the reason why the interior is still not complete, and perhaps never will be – who knows!

Thanks to Natasha and Cameron from The World Pursuit for their recommendation of the Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade.

Hagia Sophia

hagia sophia istanbul turkey

Country: Turkey
Address: Sultanahmet Mh., Ayasofya Meydanı, Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

Click here for directions to the Hagia Sophia Museum in Istanbul, Turkey using Google Maps

In my opinion, what makes Istanbul the city I love, is its cultural diversity which has a history of more than 3000 years. The geographical uniqueness of Istanbul which connects Europe and Asia with its beautiful Bosphorus attracted many civilizations and they all left their marks in Istanbul, the heart of Turkey.

inside hagia sophia

If you’d ask me to choose one building to explain this cultural diversity of Istanbul, no doubt I’d choose Hagia Sophia. When you enter Hagia Sophia, located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic center, you will see the history written on the walls. The former seat of the Patriarch of Constantinople was turned into a mosque by the Ottoman Conquerers to symbolize their power and take-over.

Today, Hagia Sophia is neither a church nor a mosque. It is a museum which symbolizes the modern Turkey, the country which has been combining both western and eastern cultures and religions for centuries, just like Hagia Sophia.

Thanks to Cansel from Citizen on Earth for her recommendation of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.

Maiden’s Tower

maidens tower istanbul turkey

Country: Turkey
Address: Salacak, Üsküdar Salacak Mevkii, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey

Click here for directions to the Maiden’s Tower in Istanbul, Turkey using Google Maps

Istanbul is one of our favorites cities in the world. The mix of culture, the people, the food, the architecture… a city that stole our hearts! There is a place that we absolute love to visit when we are in Istanbul. From the Istanbul’s Asian side (Istanbul is divided into both Eastern Europe and Asia) you get the best views of the Maiden’s Tower, a lighthouse turned into a museum.

maidens tower istanbul turkey

Go there for the sunset, sit in one of the cafes, order a “çay”, relax and enjoy the view. The boats crossing the Bosphorus, seagulls flying over the vessels, the “simit” sellers yelling “Simit, Simit, Simit!!”, the silhouette of the tower reflecting on the channel, it’s everything like a choreography.

Thanks to Rob and Nat from Love and Road for their recommendation of the Maiden’s Tower in Istanbul.

Summary

When you travel to Eastern Europe, you are presented with a variety of unique, amazing architecture. Every country has something very different that helps characterize that particular nation but clearly, countries like Hungary and Turkey are popular spots. However, that should take nothing away from any of the other countries typically linked to the ‘Eastern Europe’ region.

bratislava slovakia

If you read our post on a Bratislava walking tour, you will know that we enjoyed experiencing some gorgeous architecture around the Slovakian capital. We have had limited experience in this part of Europe but after seeing this collection of gorgeous architecture, we are ready to explore more!

We would like to reiterate our appreciation to all our fellow travelers who have graciously shared their awesome pictures of Eastern European architecture! We hope this inspires you to travel to a part of the world that frequently comes under scrutiny because of all the negative media it receives.

What is your favorite Eastern European country and why? Do you have an appreciation of architecture when traveling?

5 Amazing Things to See in Norway When You Next Visit

Chris Boothman
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35
5 Amazing Things to See in Norway When You Next Visit

If you are looking for the perfect spot to experience the infamous Northern Lights or the midnight sun north of the Arctic Circle, there can only be one country that comes to mind – Norway. It is the epitome of breathtaking beauty and with so many things to see in Norway, it’s understandably a country that should be on everyone’s upcoming travel plans.

Despite the plethora of attractions in this country, we have yet to explore this iconic nation aside from spending a solitary night at Oslo Airport. After reading so many amazing stories and seeing spectacular images of the landscapes around Norway, we are ready to head back and experience everything ‘The Land of the Midnight Sun’ has to offer.

norway midnight sun

Why Visit Norway?

Let’s start with a pretty simple question. What do you consider to be the top reasons to visit Norway? Given the recent British exit from the European Union, Norway has become one of the hot-topic countries given their independence from the EU.

things to see in norway in lofoten
Image courtesy of Bay Breezin’

As part of Scandinavia, Norway has always been an attractive country for many visitors but let’s take a look at what makes Norway such an amazing place. I can quickly summarize three key areas that make Norway so popular before you even think about specific cities or landmarks.

  • Urban vs Rural – Whether you want to spend time exploring a city like Oslo or perhaps head out on a glacial expedition in the fjords, Norway has it all!
  • Epic Natural Experiences – There are not many places on this earth that have better opportunities to see natural phenomena like the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) and Midnight Sun than Norway!
  • Norway is Energy Efficient – The Norwegians certainly know all about renewable energy (perhaps other nations could take a leaf from their book) as hydropower is the largest provider of electricity production in the nation. It’s no surprise to see the UK collaborating with the Norwegians to import the use of this hydropower.

In our opinion, here are the 5 of the top places and things to see in Norway.

things to see in norway
Image courtesy of Bay Breezin’

Oslo

Is there any better place to start than the beautiful capital city of Oslo? Whether you want to experience fine architecture at the Oslo Opera House or perhaps just people watch and partake in a little retail therapy along the Karl Johans Gate, also known as the heart of the city.

oslo opera house
Image courtesy of Maria Abroad

Oslo is home to a variety of Nordic inspired museums, so if you are an avid historian or enthusiastic art critic, there are a number of options available to you. The Munch Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of works by Edvard Munch, while the Kon-Tiki Museum offers visitors the opportunity to learn all about the historic voyage that later became a well-renowned movie.

things to see in norway
Image courtesy of Bay Breezin’

Take some time to head over to another of Oslo’s historic landmarks, the Holmenkollen Ski Jump Tower and Museum. Here you can learn all about the history of skiing while a visit to the observation deck at the summit of the jump tower offers panoramic views around Oslo.

Holmenkollen Ski Tower and Museum
Image courtesy of Bay Breezin’

Bergen

After exploring the capital, you may be ready to head to the west coast and experience the underrated city of Bergen, the second most populous metropolis in Norway. Bergen’s historic quarter runs along the eastern shore and is known as Bryggen. This old wharf is characterized by colorful, vibrant architecture that is a representation of the trading empire that once thrived here.

bergen architecture

Although Bryggen is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage in Bergen, a trip to the Bergenhus Fortress will give you a look back at life in the 13th century. The King Haakon’s Hall is the only surviving building of the royal palace that once stood on these grounds and along with the Rosenkrantz Tower, this is definitely an intriguing place to visit.

bergen norway

Tromsø

If you are thinking about experiencing the midnight sun effect, Tromsø is definitely a city you will want to visit. Located 217 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is not only the largest city in Northern Norway and allows visitors the opportunity to have unlimited daylight for two months of the year, it is also a popular spot for those seeking out the Northern Lights.

Tromsø Norway
Image courtesy of Bay Breezin’

From 20 May to 20 July the infamous midnight sun shines, so be prepared to get some rest before heading to Tromsø because during this timeframe it is well and truly a 24-hour city!

A lively nightlife scene makes Tromsø a popular spot for weekend getaways but it’s perhaps the delicious Arctic seafood that makes this such an intriguing destination for foodies and other cuisine connoisseurs. Meanwhile, a trip to see the epic sights of the Northern Lights is a popular excursion for folks visiting this city.

norway northern lights

I am an avid golfer so when I heard that Tromsø is home to the world’s most northernmost golf course (Tromsø Golf Park), I was immediately sold and need to plan a trip where I can take my golf clubs along. Imagine playing golf at midnight and then heading to the 19th hole in the early hours of the morning!

Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø
Image courtesy of Bay Breezin’

Tromsø is home to a number of quirky yet brilliantly designed architectural structures. The Polaria is an aquarium designed in a shape that is supposed to represent ice flowing. The Arctic Cathedral is another gorgeous building that is in fact, a parish church rather than a cathedral as it is named.

Fjords of Western Norway

When thinking about stereotypical Norwegian landscapes, there is nothing quite like the breathtaking scenery created by the fjords that are scattered along the western coast of Norway. Norway fjords are unlike anywhere else in the world and it’s one of those unique experiences that you have to see in order to fully appreciate it.

norway fjords

The development of the Western Norwegian fjords dates back to the ice age but the iconography of these natural features today is such that they were granted World Heritage status by UNESCO in 2005. Although there are thousands of fjords throughout Norway, the iconic ones like the Nærøyfjord, Geirangerfjord, and the Sognefjord are located on the west coast.

geirangerfjord in norway

Many of these fjords offer a perfect blend of incredible scenery, rich history and culture in the local towns that can be found along the banks and of course, a myriad of activities that visitors and locals alike can enjoy. If you are seeking a moment of pure relaxation, there are few places better than the Norwegian fjords to just get away and enjoy the intimate surroundings of these stunning natural landscapes.

Lofoten Archipelago

Interesting in taking a coastal voyage from Tromsø to appreciate some of Norway’s finest scenery from a boat? Head down to the Lofoten Islands, an archipelago characterized by gorgeous peaks, sheltered inlets, and largely untouched landscapes.

The beauty of this place is simply staggering (Lonely Planet)

Lofoten has a strong connection with the Viking age, so be sure to check out the Lofotr Viking Museum which offers a reflection of how life was like in the Viking years.

things to see in norway
Image courtesy of Bay Breezin’

If you are arriving in Lofoten by boat, consider renting a car on arrival to fully explore the Lofoten Islands. Or perhaps you want to start exploring on foot and then go rafting in the Trollfjord to appreciate the panoramic bliss around you.

lofoten islands norway
Image courtesy of Bay Breezin’

Henningsvær is a quaint fishing village with a population just over 400. However, this is not necessarily a place for people watching rather take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty both surrounding and within this small town.

lofoten islands norway
Image courtesy of Bay Breezin’

Summary

We have briefly touched on a few reasons why Norway is such an attractive country that we should all consider visiting. When you start thinking about the best places to see in Norway, I’m sure you will have different opinions but the eye-catching geography of this nation means that there is something beautiful wherever you visit.

things to see in norway

We are hoping to visit Norway in the near future to fully appreciate everything that we have covered in this post but I’m sure there will be one or two other hidden surprises waiting for us in the perfectly named Land of the Midnight Sun!

Have you visited Norway? What are your top reasons for visiting?

weekend wanderlust


Keystone South Dakota – Why You Need to Visit and Explore?

Chris Boothman
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9
Keystone South Dakota – Why You Need to Visit and Explore?

As you drive into the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota heading towards the main attraction in this region, Mount Rushmore, it’s inevitable that you will stumble across another gem that you should take some time to explore. Keystone, South Dakota is a quirky town set in a valley of the Black Hills but is a great place to get out and explore before experiencing Mount Rushmore.

keystone south dakota

Where is Keystone, South Dakota?

Located about 25 minutes from Rapid City, Keystone is perfectly situated to capture all Mount Rushmore visitors. It’s feasible that you will pass through Keystone and just spend some time shopping, dining or simply wandering around exploring the quirkiness (more on all of these later).

keystone south dakota

However, perhaps you would prefer to use Keystone as your ‘base’ for taking day trips to other parts of the Black Hills. I can certainly see the benefit of using this as a place to stay overnight given the beauty of the natural surroundings you are in.

Day Trips from Keystone

Here are some of the trips you could easily take from Keystone. It’s plausible that you could combine several of these into the same day, for example, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park are all relatively close together.

keystone south dakota

  • Mount Rushmore – Keystone is literally on the doorstep of Mount Rushmore and is only a short drive to this iconic monument. Distance – 3-4 miles (5-10 minutes)
  • Custer State Park – There are various entrances to Custer State Park but if you are interested in taking the amazing Needles Highway which is the BEST way to introduce yourselves to Custer, this is only a short drive from Keystone. Distance – 14 miles (30 minutes)
  • Crazy Horse Memorial – If you love Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse is another iconic monument you have to experience! Distance – 19-20 miles (30 minutes)
  • Rapid City – The City of Presidents offers an amazing self-guided walking tour around the heart of downtown to learn about all 42 former presidents through amazing sculptures. Distance – 20 miles (25-30 minutes)
  • Wall Drug Store – One of the most popular attractions throughout South Dakota is Wall Drug Store. If you have heard the story about a store starting by offering free ice water…that’s Wall Drug Store! It is situated perfectly for those interested in taking a tour of Badlands National Park. Distance – 74 miles (75 minutes)
  • Badlands National Park – A great day trip from Keystone is to explore the Badlands. We strongly encourage you to take the Badlands Scenic Drive but just admiring the gorgeous geological formations around these landscapes is a rewarding experience. Distance – 80 miles (80-90 minutes)

Things to Do in Keystone

If you plan to spend some time in Keystone, which you most definitely should, here are some of the top attractions and reasons to explore this town in South Dakota.

things to do in keystone

1. Gutzon Borglum Historical Center

Regardless of your opinion on Mount Rushmore, if you are visiting this part of South Dakota, it is inevitable that pretty much everything you see and experience will be related to this iconic memorial. If you are interested in learning more about the history and story behind this creation, check out the Gutzon Borglum Historical Center in Keystone.

gutzon borglum historical center

Borglum was the key architect behind the design of this memorial and for only $10, you can tour the museum learning about the history of Mount Rushmore along with Borglum’s life and family away from his most infamous work.

mount rushmore

2. National Presidential Wax Museum

Another popular attraction in Keystone which is, of course, related to the popular presidential focus in this part of South Dakota, is the National Presidential Wax Museum. The history dates back to 1971 when this attraction was formerly known as the Parade of Presidents.

national presidential wax museum

Visitors can explore the wax museum for only $10 ($7 for children) and since the turn of the century, the museum has undergone mass renovation to modernize the overall look and feel of this popular attraction.

Another popular nearby attraction for all the family to enjoy is the miniature golf course. The Holy Terror Mini Golf course is nestled on the side of a slope in Keystone, offering a challenging test for all skill levels. This is a great way to relax after an educational experience at the wax museum.

3. Souvenir Shopping

Need to grab a souvenir or two for your friends and family back home? Don’t worry, Keystone is the perfect place to find everything you may need! From souvenir magnets depicting those iconic four heads on Mount Rushmore to cuddly toys of your favorite South Dakotan wildlife, you can find it all here.

keystone south dakota shopping

We wandered around the heart of downtown Keystone and checked out a couple of the souvenir stores. We always purchase a magnet and lapel pin from our travels so of course we were delighted by the selection available. We hoped that the prices were a little cheaper here than at Mount Rushmore but we found them to be pretty comparable.

keystone shopping

4. Experience Local Cuisine

While you spend time exploring Keystone, it would be remiss of you to go without experiencing some of the local dining establishments. Whether you want to sample some of the finest pizza in South Dakota at Janes Boardwalk Pizza or perhaps appreciate the atmosphere and delicious food at Teddy’s Deli, there are plenty of options available to satisfy all appetites.

keystone restaurants

One of our regrets is that we didn’t have time to experience any dining options here because just walking by some of the restaurants, I have to admit the smell was pretty amazing and certainly captured our attention.

keystone south dakota

Grapes and Grinds is a popular spot to grab a pastry and a cup of coffee before heading out to Mount Rushmore or into Custer State Park for some outdoors adventure. Regardless of your taste, Keystone has plenty of choice for everyone!

Summary

Keystone South Dakota is a lively town that will immediately capture your attention as you approach either en route to Mount Rushmore or because you plan on spending some time here.

As you can see, Keystone is a feasible location to stay in the Black Hills of South Dakota if you plan on taking several day trips or perhaps you just want to get out and explore for a couple of hours before continuing on your journey around this part of the state.

Have you explored Keystone, South Dakota? Do you prefer to have a ‘home base’ when you are traveling and take day trips, or do you simply prefer to remain spontaneous and road trip around from one destination to another?

Our Guide to the Most Amazing Places to Visit in Iceland

Chris Boothman
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46
Our Guide to the Most Amazing Places to Visit in Iceland

It’s not called the “Land of Fire and Ice” for nothing and after visiting Iceland for the first time, we can well and truly attest that this is one AMAZING COUNTRY that everyone has to experience. Once you have visited, trust me…you will want to keep going back! From breathtaking natural attractions such as active volcanoes and geysers to the relaxing solitude of coastal towns along the south coast, there are numerous places to visit in Iceland to keep you entertained.

Regardless of where you are visiting from, Iceland’s myriad of natural wonders is like nowhere else in the world. Whether you want to relax in the Blue Lagoon or perhaps be a little more adventurous and experience one of the infamous glacier walks, Iceland has it all. And we haven’t even mentioned the capital city of Reykjavik yet or the “Yule Lads” that have helped shape Icelandic folklore!!

icelandic yule lads

We hope that this handy guide will give you a taste of the experiences you can expect when you arrive in Iceland and if you haven’t already planned a trip, well I’m convinced after reading this you will be raring to go. Be sure to check out this guide on travel tips for Iceland after you take the plunge and book a trip to the Land of Fire and Ice!

Tourism in Iceland

Iceland is undoubtedly a beautiful country but when you think about the most popular spots around the world, it is not at the top of this list. Why? That’s a great question because after exploring Iceland, you will be wondering the exact same thing!

Perhaps the harsh winter climates are what discourages many or even the location which unless you are flying across the Atlantic from North America and want a convenient stop-off (more on that later!), Iceland is not ideally situated to attract the large numbers of tourists like some of their European counterparts.

places to visit in iceland

Tourism in Iceland is clearly an integral part of the economy just like any other country. But tourism has a flip-side and can actually hurt a country. When you read articles that suggest how much vandalism and disrespect many tourists cause, it’s not difficult to see why a country is a little apprehensive about encouraging more outsiders to come in.

The reality is that the minority of individuals that cause such problems have a domino effect with other tourists who actually want to explore and portray the country the way it should be. Iceland is spectacular. Iceland is beautiful. Iceland is a country we should all experience but most importantly, Iceland is a country we should respect!

Top Places to Visit in Iceland

For those of you wondering why Iceland is such a special place to visit, here are some of our top reasons for exploring this beautiful nation. Words and pictures will never do each of these locations justice but hopefully, we can inspire you to visit these for yourselves in the near future.

ICELAND WAS CREATED FOR THE EXTREME EXPERIENCE (Visit Iceland)

As you can see from the above quote taken directly from the nation’s tourism board, Iceland is all about having an extreme experience. That doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go ice caving (though by all accounts Iceland is an epic place to do this) or skydiving, instead it’s what I like to call an “ultimate experience where sleeping is never on your mind”

Of course, if you visit in the middle of summer the lack of darkness (the sun sets for only about 3 hours from May to August) will certainly give you ample time to explore everything this nation has to offer. A visit in winter will offer the exact opposite as you only have 3 or 4 hours of daylight but the beauty of Iceland is that you can appreciate it at any time of the year.

Here are the areas we are going to focus on:

  • Reykjavik – It’s the capital city and certainly a trip to Iceland wouldn’t be the same without exploring the heart and soul of the nation!
  • South Coast – A journey around the Icelandic Ring Road from Reykjavik takes you along the stunning black sand beaches of the south coast.
  • Vik – The most southerly point in Iceland.
  • Waterfalls – Thousands of gorgeous waterfalls make this a natural feature you will want to explore around Iceland.
  • Golden Circle – An iconic tour that takes in a variety of natural phenomena.
  • East Fjords – Explore the untouched panoramic landscapes throughout the east coast region of Iceland.

Reykjavik

Let’s start with the capital city. Take a stroll along the main shopping street known as Laugavegur and experience all of the local souvenir shops, boutique establishments and a plethora of fine restaurants that have located here. It’s the heart of Reykjavik but don’t let this fool you because there are plenty of other attractions in and around the city.

places to visit in iceland

Known as the “church on top of the hill”, Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran church that is one of the most iconic churches across Europe because of it’s quirky yet spectacular design.

Hallgrímskirkja

Take a trip to the top and experience the stunning panoramic landscapes across the city and beyond.

view of reykjavik

Music is a huge part of Icelandic culture so be sure to head down to the waterfront and experience Harpa, a modern concert hall that is a true reflection of modern architectural design.

harpa concert hall reykjavik
Image courtesy of Justin Plus Lauren
Insider Tips

Be sure to check out Icelandic Fish and Chips (that’s the name of the restaurant) and sample some of the finest seafood in Reykjavik (our opinion of course).

icelandic fish and chips

South Coast

When you think about all of the amazing natural phenomena around Iceland, beaches are probably not at the top of many people’s lists. However, when you head along Iceland’s south coast, you are rewarded with the stunning sight of beautiful beaches, albeit with black sand. But it’s this black sand that makes experiencing the south coast a must visit when exploring Iceland.

south coast iceland

Tours are frequently available to this part of the island but is there anything better than renting your own vehicle and exploring the Icelandic ring road? Don’t worry, the journey gets even better as you continue around the island but take some time to check out the basalt sea stacks located at Reynisdrangar.

reynisdrangar

As you drive along the south coast, consider taking some time to head inland and hike one of the many glaciers in Iceland. Alternatively, be ready with your camera to capture an infamous shot of the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights.

northern lights in iceland

We were incredibly fortunate to capture some awesome memories (and pictures) of the Northern Lights though you always need to have a little help from Mother Nature.

Insider Tips

Another reason to take this drive is passing by the historic volcano known as Eyjafjallajokull. Here’s your first challenge…try to say that! When the historic eruption started in 2010, this quickly became one of the most infamously named volcanoes around the world.

Vik

One of the most popular spots for visitors to stay overnight or at least grab a bite to eat is the quaint town of Vik. Located in a valley on the south slopes of Reynisfjall, Vik is the south point of Iceland and offers awe-inspiring views across the Atlantic.

vik south iceland

Vik is located about 110 miles from Reykjavik so if driving the full ring road is not feasible, why not add this as a viable day trip from the Icelandic capital and experience some other amazing natural features along this scenic drive.

Insider Tips

Take a wander over to Vik Church perched on the hilltop overlooking the city. Not only is this an iconic spot given its location on higher ground, but the views across the Atlantic are worth the short hike.

vik church

Waterfalls

Iceland has so many amazing natural features but in my opinion, none of them match the spectacular array of waterfalls that are scattered throughout the island. I am a huge waterfall aficionado, so having the opportunity to explore Iceland’s finest waterfalls was at the top of my bucket list.

gullfoss waterfall

Although this is not a single location like many other top places to visit in Iceland, the geography of the nations waterfalls is such that we couldn’t help but include this in our Iceland guide.

iceland waterfalls

We had the opportunity to explore Gullfoss which is the most famous of all Iceland’s waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss are two other iconic waterfalls that we were fortunate enough to explore during our south coast road trip. Regardless of which waterfalls you want to visit, when you hear comments that waterfalls outnumber people in Iceland, you know you are visiting a pretty special place.

Insider Tips

Take the Golden Circle to explore Gullfoss but we strongly encourage you to arrive early to beat the hordes of tourists and also perhaps capture a perfect ‘Golden Hour’ picture of the water falling into the abyss of the Hvítá river (White River).

Golden Circle

Iceland and geothermal activity go hand in hand. If you decide to take the famous Golden Circle tour (guided or self-guided), you will appreciate why this is true.

golden circle iceland

The geothermal park of Geysir is the most popular spot on this route with a variety of active geysers ready to erupt at any given time. Although Geysir is no longer an active geyser, there are plenty of others to provide entertainment.

golden circle iceland

The active Strokkur geyser erupts every 4-7 minutes and is certainly an experience you will cherish and depending on how much time you spend here, you will likely see Strokkur erupting along with other smaller geysers multiple times.

strokkur geyser iceland

You will certainly know you are in an area of geothermal activity with the pungent smell that you will quickly become accustomed to.

places to visit in iceland

As we already mentioned, Gullfoss is another of the iconic landmarks on the Golden Circle tour. But there are plenty of other waterfalls including the Faxi (or Vatnsleysufoss) waterfall which is smaller but equally breathtaking.

thingvellir national park

The final stop on the tour of the Golden Circle leads you to Thingvellir National Park, site of Iceland’s first parliament and today more commonly renowned as the location where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge sits. The lakes around this national park are a popular spot for scuba diving and fishing, while others simply enjoy hiking this eerily beautiful wilderness.

Insider Tips

Head inside the Geysir Visitor Center to grab a Golden Circle souvenir or two and sample some of the fine Kjötsúpa (lamb soup) which is a delicious local dish that you can enjoy all year round.

icelandic lamb soup

East Fjords

Iceland’s east coast is sometimes a forgotten part of the country but as you head along the Ring Road and approach the East Fjords region, it is certainly a beautiful area to explore. If you’re looking for a hiking paradise then Borgarfjordur is a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing landscape and breathe in the coveted Icelandic air.

Papey island puffins in iceland
Image courtesy of Justin Plus Lauren

Meanwhile, the Icelandic puffin can be found on the island of Papey, also known locally as the “island of puffins”. For those that are more interested in improving their art skills, the town of Seydisfjordur is the place to be. The colorful facades of the wooden houses around this community help create a picturesque landscape and an artists dream.

Seydisfjordur places to visit in iceland
Image courtesy of Justin Plus Lauren
Insider Tips

The prime time for seeing puffins on the island of Papey is from Spring to mid-Summer so be sure to plan this into your itinerary if you want to see some of the finest wildlife Iceland has to offer.

Summary

Iceland is a breathtaking country of natural landscapes, spectacular geological formations, and much more. Regardless of your planned itinerary, the moment you arrive at Keflavik Airport you will know you have arrived in a pretty special place. Iceland is unlike any other place in the world, so take some time to appreciate everything this nation has to offer.

As you can see from our experiences, we were incredibly fortunate to explore a large amount of Iceland. However, the reality is that we have so much more to experience and we can’t wait to head back sooner rather than later!

Have you visited Iceland? What are your favorite landmarks and landscapes around the island?


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