Iceland has been the ultimate hot spot the last few years. Tourism is up by 40% from 2015 to 2016 and climbing steadily ever since. I’ve dreamt about visiting a destination where I might have the opportunity of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights for as long as I can remember. Literally on a whim, I found myself booking a trip to Reykjavik for the beginning of February 2017. What lead me to taking the plunge was finding a really awesome deal with WOW Airlines. While they are no longer in business, there are plenty of other airlines that will get you there at a great price. Here’s a glimpse at where we stayed, what we did and some of my recommendations for while visiting.
While I love hotels because of the amenities, there’s nothing like a rental property when away – especially now that I travel with my toddler. I found the perfect rental in Reykjavik via VRBO.com and booked instantly. This apt had 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 separate living room areas, washer/dryer, full kitchen + dining room and had enough space for us (a group of 5 adults/1 child) and for Victor to run around after a long day out in the city. The location was also perfect and that is KEY!
Click HERE to view our rental.
Since we were visiting in the heart of the winter season, I decided to book tours vs. rent a car and go on our own. While I have heard great things about exploring on your own, I was little nervous about Iceland’s frequently changing weather while traveling with a 17 month old. We booked all of our tours and transfers through BusTravel Iceland. Click HERE to check out some of their top tours! They were so helpful in assisting me book everything. They were also super accommodating that we were traveling with a child and offered a car seat for each tour. Traveling with kids is a game changer but I found Iceland to be super family and kid friendly.
Day 1:
Blue Lagoon + Northern Lights Tour
A lot of people will go on and on about how the Blue Lagoon is “touristy” and you know what – it is, but in the BEST way possible. While there are a ton of natural lagoons all over Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is a must when visiting. I could have spent hours here! It was so beautiful, relaxing and exactly what we needed after that overnight flight and time change.
Chasing the Northern Lights will always be a hit or miss but I was still super excited to do so. I’m so happy to say that we totally lucked out and were able to see them during our tour even though the activity wasn’t super strong.
Day 2:
For Day 2, we went with the Afternoon Golden Circle Tour. This worked out perfectly because it allowed us to get a good nights rest since we weren’t picked up until about 10am. With this tour we were able to visit and explore the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, Þingvellir National Park and Kerið volcanic crater. All of these locations were simply breathtaking! It started to snow these huge flakes while we were at Kerið for about 5 minutes and then a beautiful rainbow came out and it was sunny. This was the perfect example of the Icelandic saying “If you don’t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes.”
Day 3:
This was our last full day in Iceland and we spent it exploring Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skógafoss Waterfall, Sólheimajökull Glacier and Black Sand Beach. The Southern part of Iceland was amazing. I feel like it is a must see when visiting.
Our flight home the following day was late in the afternoon so we spent the morning walking around Reykjavik. We came across some really awesome shops, cafes, street art and hot dog carts (which are super popular in Iceland!)
A few tips I would give anyone planning a visit to Iceland would be the following:
–Book early! Because of the booming tourism, hotels and apartment rentals sell out quickly.
–Plan ahead! Regardless if you plan to explore on your own or book tours, there’s nothing like being prepared before arriving and having a list of what you want to do and see. This is key if you have a short visit.
–It’s all about the layers! Seriously, I was so surprised how not cold Iceland was. OK… I take that back. The night we chased the Northern Lights it was FREEZING but during the day, I was actually hot in my down coat. The weather is unpredictable so make sure to check the weather forecast before heading out there and remember to pack layers (long sleeves, leggings, snow pants etc.) These items will be easy to put on and take off depending on how the weather turns out.
–Budget wisely! I always try to save a little more than what I originally budget for spending money while away because… well, you just never know. Iceland is expensive!! I’m talking like $20 for a burger and $15 for a mixed drink expensive. And gas…. it’s $7.50 a gallon!
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To say that I am in love with Iceland would be an understatement. Visually – it is one of the most beautiful countries I have ever been to. The people were so friendly and helpful and I felt safe the entire time. Waterfalls are everywhere and the scenery will leave you breathless.
If you have any questions about Iceland – don’t hesitate to reach out!
you got me super excited to visit cant wait thanks for the tips
thank you!! xo
Awww, this is making me miss Iceland! I was there in October and did most of the same things as you. We missed the black sand beach, though – looks like it was beautiful. Great photos – especially the ones with your toddler! 🙂
thank you!! Black Sand beach was amazing. I plan to spend more time in that are the next time I visit.
I am visiting next month so this is great to know how much you fit into a short amount of time. Thanks for sharing :-)!
thank you for reading 🙂 enjoy your trip!
Love your photos of Iceland in summer. I went in winter, but I actually brought my own food in a suitcase to save on costs, which helped quite a bit. Your rental is super cute too.
Thank you! I went in winter too… I think we went during like a warm streak… that or I’m just used to the cold lol Bringing your own food is such a good idea! Since I was traveling with my toddler – that limited space in my suitcase.
That rental looks AWESOME. 99% of the time we book through VRBO/AirBNB – full kitchen, laundry, and no shared walls (key when the toddler wakes up early!)
We’ve talked a little about visiting Iceland but this really makes me want to go. Hawaii next month, maybe Iceland next spring?? 😀
Iceland is Goregous! And you even caught the Northern Lights! Very informative post!
Lucky you that you have been able to see the northern light. That risk avoided me to travel that far, also knowing that it’s not a few what you spend there. But it seems like it worth it!!