Iceland is a country rich in history, culture, and natural wonders. From the rugged landscapes of the Highlands to the vibrant capital city of Reykjavík, there are countless historic places that offer a glimpse into the country’s past. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 historic places in Iceland that are sure to captivate and inspire you.
1. The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous and iconic destinations in Iceland. This geothermal spa, located in the Reykjanes Peninsula, is not only a stunning natural wonder but also has a fascinating history.
The Blue Lagoon was formed in 1976 as a result of the operation of a nearby geothermal power plant. The mineral-rich waters, which are heated by the earth’s natural geothermal energy, have been used for centuries by the Icelandic people for their therapeutic and healing properties.
Today, the Blue Lagoon is a popular tourist attraction, drawing in millions of visitors each year who come to experience the soothing, silky-smooth waters and the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as a weary traveler, your muscles aching from a long day of exploring Iceland’s rugged terrain. As you approach the Blue Lagoon, you’re immediately struck by the serene and otherworldly beauty of the steaming, milky-blue waters. You slowly lower yourself into the soothing warmth, feeling the tension and stress melt away as you immerse yourself in the mineral-rich waters. The stark, volcanic landscape that surrounds the lagoon only adds to the sense of tranquility and rejuvenation, as you soak in the natural wonders of this historic and iconic Icelandic destination.
2. Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important historical and cultural sites in Iceland. This vast and stunning natural landscape is the location of the Alþingi, the national parliament of Iceland, which was founded in 930 AD and is considered the oldest continuously running parliament in the world.
The park is situated in a rift valley that marks the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, creating a dramatic and otherworldly landscape of rugged cliffs, deep chasms, and crystal-clear lakes.
Visitors to Þingvellir can explore the ruins of the old parliament site, hike along the stunning trails, and even snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure, where they can see the tectonic plates up close.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as an adventurous traveler, eager to explore the rich history and natural wonders of Iceland. As you approach Þingvellir National Park, you’re struck by the sheer scale and grandeur of the landscape, with towering cliffs and deep, crevice-like valleys that seem to stretch on for miles. As you wander through the park, you come across the ruins of the old parliament site, where you can almost feel the weight of history and the generations of Icelanders who have gathered here to shape the course of their nation. Later, you decide to take the plunge and snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure, marveling at the sight of the tectonic plates that have been slowly drifting apart for centuries.
3. The Icelandic Phallological Museum
The Icelandic Phallological Museum in Reykjavík is a unique and quirky cultural institution that celebrates the male genitalia in all its forms. This one-of-a-kind museum houses an extensive collection of penises and penile parts from various mammals, including humans, whales, and even mythical creatures.
The museum was founded in 1997 by Sigurður Hjartarson, an Icelandic man who had been collecting penile specimens for over 40 years. The collection has since grown to include over 280 penises and penile parts, making it the largest collection of its kind in the world.
While the museum may seem unconventional, it offers a fascinating and often humorous look at the cultural and biological significance of the male genitalia throughout history and across different cultures.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as a curious and open-minded traveler, eager to explore the unique and quirky aspects of Icelandic culture. As you step into the Icelandic Phallological Museum, you’re immediately struck by the sheer scope and diversity of the collection, with penises and penile parts from a wide range of mammals, both real and mythical. At first, you may feel a bit uncomfortable, but as you delve deeper into the exhibits and learn about the cultural and biological significance of these specimens, you can’t help but be fascinated by the museum’s unique and often humorous approach to this oft-taboo subject. By the end of your visit, you have a newfound appreciation for the museum’s role in celebrating the diversity and importance of the male genitalia in Icelandic and global culture.
4. Viðey Island
Viðey Island is a small, picturic island located just a short ferry ride from Reykjavík. Despite its small size, the island is rich in history and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
One of the main attractions on Viðey Island is the Viðey House, a beautifully preserved 18th-century building that once served as a residence for the island’s wealthiest inhabitants. Today, the house has been transformed into a museum that offers a glimpse into the island’s past, with exhibits that explore the daily lives and customs of the people who lived there.
The island is also home to a number of historic churches and other buildings, as well as a stunning natural landscape that includes cliffs, beaches, and a variety of birdlife.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as a nature-lover and history enthusiast, eager to explore the hidden gems of Iceland. As you board the ferry to Viðey Island, you’re immediately captivated by the serene beauty of the surrounding waters and the rugged, yet picturesque, landscape that awaits you. Once on the island, you wander through the Viðey House, marveling at the well-preserved architecture and the glimpses it offers into the daily lives of the island’s former residents. As you explore the rest of the island, you’re struck by the sense of tranquility and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural wonders and rich history of this enchanting place.
5. Turf Houses of Skógar
The Skógar Folk Museum in southern Iceland is home to a unique and fascinating collection of turf houses, which were once a common form of traditional Icelandic architecture.
Turf houses were built using a combination of sod, wooden frames, and other natural materials, and were designed to provide insulation and protection from the harsh Icelandic climate. These houses were not only practical, but also played an important role in the cultural and social life of Icelandic communities.
The Skógar Folk Museum offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and explore these well-preserved turf houses, which provide a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of Icelandic people from the past.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as a curious traveler, eager to learn more about the traditional way of life in Iceland. As you wander through the Skógar Folk Museum, you’re immediately struck by the unique and charming turf houses that dot the landscape. You step inside one of these historic dwellings, marveling at the intricate construction and the sense of warmth and coziness that permeates the interior. As you explore the various rooms and learn about the daily routines and customs of the people who once lived here, you gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of the Icelandic people, who were able to thrive in the face of the country’s harsh environmental conditions.
6. Víðgelmir Lava Cave
Víðgelmir is one of the largest and most impressive lava caves in Iceland, offering visitors a unique and awe-inspiring glimpse into the country’s volcanic past.
Formed thousands of years ago by the flow of molten lava, Víðgelmir is a massive, winding cave system that stretches for over 1.5 kilometers. The cave’s walls are lined with stunning rock formations, including towering basalt columns, intricate lava stalactites, and glistening pools of crystal-clear water.
Visitors to Víðgelmir can explore the cave’s various chambers and passages, marveling at the sheer scale and beauty of this natural wonder. The cave is also home to a fascinating array of wildlife, including cave-dwelling spiders and other unique species.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as an intrepid explorer, eager to delve into the hidden wonders of Iceland’s volcanic landscape. As you descend into the cavernous depths of Víðgelmir, you’re immediately struck by the sheer scale and grandeur of the lava cave. The towering basalt columns and intricate lava formations seem to stretch on endlessly, creating a sense of awe and wonder that takes your breath away. As you carefully navigate the winding passages, you can’t help but marvel at the incredible geologic processes that shaped this incredible natural wonder over thousands of years. The experience of being surrounded by such ancient and awe-inspiring geological features is truly humbling, and you feel a deep connection to the primal forces that have shaped the Icelandic landscape.
7. Geysir Geothermal Area
The Geysir Geothermal Area, located in the Haukadalur valley, is one of the most famous and iconic natural wonders in Iceland. Home to the legendary Geysir, after which all other geysers are named, this geothermal hotspot is a true marvel of nature.
The Geysir Geothermal Area is a bustling hub of geothermal activity, with numerous hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and, of course, the famous Geysir itself. The Geysir, which can shoot boiling water up to 70 meters into the air, is a true natural phenomenon that has captivated visitors for centuries.
In addition to the Geysir, the area is home to a number of other impressive geysers, including the reliable and predictable Strokkur, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, delighting onlookers with its powerful, geyser-like displays.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as a awestruck traveler, standing in the Geysir Geothermal Area, surrounded by the steaming, bubbling pools and the towering plumes of water that erupt from the ground. As you watch the Geysir, you’re captivated by the sheer power and unpredictability of this natural wonder, which has been drawing visitors to this spot for centuries. The eruption of boiling water shooting high into the air fills you with a sense of wonder and excitement, and you can’t help but feel a deep connection to the primal, geothermal forces that have shaped the Icelandic landscape. Even as you watch the reliable Strokkur erupt, time and time again, you’re left in awe of the incredible natural processes at work in this unique and captivating geothermal hotspot.
8. Sólheimajökull Glacier
Sólheimajökull is a stunning glacier tongue that extends from the larger Mýrdalsjökull glacier in southern Iceland. This breathtaking natural wonder offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and ever-changing landscape of Iceland’s glaciers.
Over the years, Sólheimajökull has been the subject of extensive scientific research, as the glacier’s retreat and melting have provided valuable insights into the effects of climate change on the Icelandic landscape. Visitors can explore the glacier’s various features, including deep crevasses, towering ice walls, and serene, turquoise-hued pools of meltwater.
Guided glacier hikes and tours offer the chance to venture onto the glacier’s surface, providing a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for those interested in the history and science of Iceland’s glacial landscapes.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as an adventurous traveler, eager to explore the natural wonders of Iceland. As you approach the Sólheimajökull glacier, you’re immediately struck by the sheer scale and grandeur of this icy wonder. You strap on your crampons and join a guided tour, venturing out onto the glacier’s surface, marveling at the deep crevasses, towering ice walls, and the stunning, turquoise-hued pools of meltwater that dot the landscape. As your guide explains the glacier’s history and the effects of climate change on its ever-changing form, you can’t help but feel a deep sense of connection to the fragile and dynamic nature of this incredible natural feature. The experience of walking on this ancient, frozen river fills you with a profound sense of awe and appreciation for the power and beauty of Iceland’s glacial landscapes.
9. Snæfellsjökull National Park
Snæfellsjökull National Park, located on the Snæfellsnes peninsula in western Iceland, is a place of extraordinary natural beauty and rich cultural history. The park is dominated by the iconic Snæfellsjökull volcano, a 1,446-meter-high glacier-capped mountain that has captured the imagination of artists, writers, and adventurers for centuries.
Beyond the Snæfellsjökull volcano, the national park is home to a diverse array of natural wonders, including rugged coastlines, lush meadows, and a variety of unique geological formations. The park is also rich in cultural history, with numerous historic sites, including ancient churches, farmhouses, and even the remains of a Viking settlement.
Visitors to Snæfellsjökull National Park can explore the park’s various hiking trails, take guided tours to the summit of the Snæfellsjökull volcano, and immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this remarkable Icelandic destination.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as a nature-loving adventurer, eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland. As you step into Snæfellsjökull National Park, you’re immediately captivated by the towering, glacier-capped peak of the Snæfellsjökull volcano, looming majestically over the surrounding landscape. You set out on a hike, winding your way through the park’s diverse terrain, from rugged coastlines to lush, verdant meadows, all the while marveling at the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. Along the way, you stumble upon ancient cultural sites, like historic farmhouses and the remnants of a Viking settlement, providing a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of this remarkable place. As you reach the summit of the Snæfellsjökull volcano, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Icelandic countryside, and you feel a deep sense of connection to the natural and cultural heritage that has shaped this remarkable national park.
10. The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)
The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar, are a stunning archipelago off the southern coast of Iceland, renowned for their dramatic volcanic landscapes, rich wildlife, and unique cultural heritage.
The largest and most well-known of the Westman Islands is Heimaey, which was the site of a catastrophic volcanic eruption in 1973 that nearly destroyed the entire island. Today, Heimaey and the other Westman Islands offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the power and resilience of Iceland’s natural environment.
Visitors to the Westman Islands can explore the rugged coastlines, hike to the top of the Eldfell volcano, and visit the Eldheimar Museum, which tells the story of the 1973 eruption and the island’s remarkable recovery. The islands are also home to a diverse array of birdlife, including the iconic puffin, which can be observed up close during the summer months.
Life Example: Imagine yourself as an intrepid traveler, eager to explore the dramatic and dynamic landscapes of the Westman Islands. As you step off the ferry onto the shores of Heimaey, you’re immediately struck by the island’s stunning volcanic features, from the towering cliffs to the rugged coastlines. You set out on a hike to the top of the Eldfell volcano, marveling at the power and resilience of Iceland’s natural environment, as you learn about the island’s tumultuous history and the devastating 1973 eruption. Later, you visit the Eldheimar Museum, where you’re immersed in the stories of the islanders who weathered that catastrophic event and rebuilt their lives and community. Throughout your time on the Westman Islands, you’re captivated by the sheer natural beauty of the archipelago, from the towering sea cliffs to the vibrant puffin colonies that call these islands home. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that leaves you with a deep appreciation for the remarkable resilience and dynamism of Iceland’s natural and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Iceland is a country that is rich in history, culture, and natural wonders, and the top 10 historic places we’ve explored in this blog post offer a glimpse into the diverse and fascinating heritage of this incredible island nation. From the iconic Blue Lagoon and the ancient parliament site at Þingvellir National Park to the stunning Sólheimajökull glacier and the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Westman Islands, each of these destinations offers a unique and captivating experience for the curious and adventurous traveler.
