Planning your first trip to Iceland? Get ready to be blown away by some of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth. Iceland is a land shaped by fire and ice, home to erupting volcanoes, towering waterfalls, steaming hot springs, and massive glaciers — all packed into one stunning island. Its raw, untouched nature is what draws visitors from around the world, and if it’s your first time here, knowing which natural wonders to prioritise can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to Iceland’s top 10 must-see natural wonders that are perfect for first-time visitors. From iconic sights like the Golden Circle and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to lesser-known gems that will leave you speechless, each destination can be reached easily with a rental car. Whether you’re planning a short stopover or a full Ring Road adventure, these unforgettable places will give you a true taste of Iceland’s wild beauty.
1. Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss, also known as the “Golden Falls,” is one of Iceland’s most iconic and breathtaking waterfalls. This powerful two-tiered cascade plunges into a dramatic canyon, creating misty rainbows on sunny days and showcasing Iceland’s raw natural energy. It’s one of the highlights of the famous Golden Circle route and a must-see for first-time visitors.
Located about 115 km (71 miles) from Reykjavík, Gullfoss is an easy drive on paved roads, making it accessible year-round by rental car. Simply follow Route 1 east out of the capital, then take Route 35 north through the scenic countryside. The drive takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes and is part of the classic Golden Circle itinerary, which also includes Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area.
Gullfoss has well-maintained walking paths and viewing platforms, so you can safely get close to the roaring water. Parking is free and located just a short walk from the falls, with a visitor centre and café on-site. Whether you’re visiting in summer under the midnight sun or in winter with the waterfall partially frozen, Gullfoss never fails to impress.
2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is where icebergs break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and float peacefully in a bright blue lagoon before drifting out to sea. The sight of these towering, crystal-like ice chunks surrounded by seals and seabirds is unforgettable, and just across the road you’ll find the famous Diamond Beach, where smaller ice pieces wash up on the black sand shore.
Located along the southeast coast of Iceland, Jökulsárlón is about a 5–6 hour drive from Reykjavík via the Ring Road (Route 1). The route is paved and easy to follow in summer, though winter drivers should check weather and road conditions before setting off. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to stop at scenic spots along the way, including waterfalls, lava fields, and coastal cliffs. There’s free parking at the lagoon and boat tours available during warmer months for a closer look at the floating ice.
3. Thingvellir National Park
Þingvellir National Park is one of Iceland’s most important historical and geological sites. It’s where the world’s first parliament, Alþingi, was founded in 930 AD. The park also lies in a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it a unique place to walk between two continents.
The landscapes here are breathtaking — with lava fields, clear water-filled fissures like Silfra, and Öxarárfoss waterfall tucked in the heart of the park. It’s also part of the famous Golden Circle route, along with Gullfoss and Geysir.
Getting to Þingvellir by car is easy. It’s just a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík on Route 36. Roads are paved and accessible year-round, and there’s plenty of parking near the main visitor areas.
4. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls — and for good reason. This stunning 60-meter cascade drops from a cliff with a small cave behind it, allowing visitors to walk behind the waterfall for a truly magical view (just be ready to get a little wet!). It’s especially beautiful during sunset or when lit up at night. In winter, the path behind the falls may be closed due to ice, but the view from the front is still absolutely worth it.
Reaching Seljalandsfoss by car is simple. Located just off the Ring Road (Route 1) in South Iceland, it’s about a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Reykjavík. Turn onto Route 249 near the town of Hvolsvöllur, and you’ll spot the waterfall shortly after. There’s a parking lot on-site with a small fee, and it’s a perfect stop on any South Coast road trip.
5. Vatnajökull Glacier
Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, is one of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. It’s home to dazzling ice caves, powerful glacial tongues, and epic views that attract adventurers year-round.
You can get there by driving along the Ring Road (Route 1) to Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park. It’s about 4.5 to 5 hours from Reykjavík, with well-maintained roads accessible most of the year.
Once there, you can book a guided glacier hike or ice cave tour—perfect ways to safely explore the icy landscape. Tours often start from Skaftafell or nearby Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
6. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
The famous black sand beach, known for its striking basalt columns, roaring Atlantic waves, and the dramatic Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean. Located near the village of Vík on the south coast, it’s a must-see stop for any road trip. You can reach Reynisfjara by driving along the Ring Road (Route 1) from Reykjavík, which takes about 2.5 hours. From Vík, it’s just a short 10-minute drive west to the beach.
While the scenery is stunning, Reynisfjara is also one of Iceland’s most dangerous beaches due to its powerful and unpredictable sneaker waves. These waves can surge up the shore suddenly and drag people out to sea with little warning. Always stay well back from the waterline, never turn your back to the ocean, and obey all safety signs. Even on calm days, the beach demands respect—so enjoy the view, but keep a safe distance.
7. Landmannalaugar
Landmannalaugar is one of Iceland’s most colourful natural wonders, known for its rhyolite mountains, steaming geothermal areas, and vast lava fields. Located in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands, it’s part of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The area is particularly famous for its hot springs and dramatic landscapes, which change colour with the light and weather.
To reach Landmannalaugar, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle, especially during summer when the F-roads (like F208) leading there are open. The drive from Reykjavík takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the route and road conditions. Be sure to check road.is before heading out, as river crossings and rough terrain can make this journey tricky. If you’re not confident driving in the highlands, there are also guided tours departing from Reykjavík.
Landmannalaugar is the starting point of the Laugavegur trail—one of Iceland’s most famous multi-day hikes that ends in Þórsmörk, a beautiful valley surrounded by glaciers. The trail covers about 55 km and usually takes 3 to 4 days to complete. It’s well-marked and offers hut accommodation along the way, but hikers should come prepared for rapidly changing weather and challenging terrain.
8. Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls
Hraunfossar and Barnafoss are two stunning waterfalls located side by side in West Iceland, near the village of Húsafell. Hraunfossar, meaning “lava waterfalls,” is a series of gentle streams that emerge from the Hallmundarhraun lava field, creating a unique and tranquil cascade. Just a short walk upstream is Barnafoss, a more powerful and narrow waterfall with a tragic folktale behind its name, meaning “Children’s Falls.”
You can easily reach both waterfalls by car from Reykjavík in about 2 hours and 15 minutes via Route 1 and Route 50, followed by Route 518. The roads are paved and well-maintained, making it accessible year-round with a standard rental car. There’s a small parking lot on-site and walking paths that allow you to explore both falls and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding Borgarfjörður region.
9. Snaefellsjökull Glacier and National Park
Snæfellsjökull is a glacier-capped volcano at the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and a standout feature of Snæfellsjökull National Park. Known from Journey to the Center of the Earth, it’s one of Iceland’s most iconic natural landmarks.
It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to drive there from Reykjavík. Follow Route 1 north, then turn onto Route 54 and finally Route 574, which circles the volcano. Most of the roads are paved, but some areas near the glacier require a 4×4 vehicle.
Summer is the best time to visit, with clearer roads and access to hiking trails or glacier tours. In winter, road closures are common, so always check conditions before your trip.
10. Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa, known for its surreal blue waters rich in silica and minerals. It’s located in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, just 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport and about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. You can easily reach the lagoon by rental car via Route 41 and Route 43. With on-site parking and flexible booking times, it’s a convenient stop either at the beginning or end of your Iceland trip.
In recent years, the area around the Blue Lagoon has been impacted by volcanic eruptions from the nearby Fagradalsfjall and Sundhnúkar systems. While the eruptions have not directly damaged the lagoon, temporary closures have occurred for safety reasons due to air quality or lava flow proximity. The area is closely monitored by Icelandic authorities, and the spa reopens as soon as it’s deemed safe, often within days. Despite these events, the Blue Lagoon remains a secure and popular destination for relaxation and wellness.
Why Rent a Car in Iceland?
Renting a car in Iceland is by far the most flexible and convenient way to explore the country. From powerful waterfalls and black sand beaches to remote volcanoes and hidden hot springs, many of Iceland’s most iconic attractions are spread out and far from city centres – especially Reykjavik. With a rental car, you’re free to travel at your own pace, stop whenever a breath-taking view catches your eye, and venture off the beaten path without relying on rigid tour schedules or public transport limitations.
Whether you’re driving the full Ring Road or just planning day trips from Reykjavík, having your own vehicle allows you to make the most of your time in Iceland. It’s also often more cost-effective for couples, families, or small groups when compared to multiple guided tours. With well-maintained roads, scenic routes, and easy-to-use navigation tools, driving in Iceland is not only manageable but one of the most rewarding ways to truly experience everything on your bucket list.