Iceland, often referred to as the Land of Fire and Ice, is a traveler’s paradise, offering stunning landscapes, unique geological features, and rich cultural experiences. While Iceland is known for its high living costs, you might be surprised to learn about the plethora of free activities that make exploring this Nordic wonderland budget-friendly in Reykjavik and other places in Iceland. In this blog post, we’ll delve into some free things to do in Iceland, perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking to experience the best this beautiful country has to offer, all the while keeping in mind the cost of vacation traveling.
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1. The Northern Lights
One of the most mesmerizing free activities in Iceland is the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, which is best seen outside Reykjavik. From September to April, the dark skies above Iceland often light up with brilliant displays of green, pink, and purple hues. The best places to view the Northern Lights are away from the city lights, such as Thingvellir National Park, Grotta Lighthouse, and the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. To increase your chances of witnessing this natural spectacle, check the Aurora forecast and be patient.
Seeing northern lights in Iceland is a free activity and it’s best to be outside Reykjavik for this, away from light pollution. That being said, many prefer to go on an excursion for this, with a tour guide. Here is an excellent option if you wanted to budget in this tour in the cost of your Iceland vacation.
2. Reykjavik City Walk – a Free Activity
Exploring Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, doesn’t have to be expensive. The Reykjavik City Walk offers free guided tours around the city, where knowledgeable local guides share fascinating stories about Iceland’s history, culture, and contemporary life. This tour covers notable landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, and the old harbor area. While the tour is free, tips are appreciated as a token of gratitude for the guides.
A free walking tour is great, and of course, you can always just explore on your own, but if you want even more here are some great choices. I have done the walking tour with a viking and the food tour. Both were excellent, but I highly recommend the walking food tour. The cost of food is expensive when traveling to Iceland, but the walking food tour gives a little history and information behind the culinary scene in Reykjavik.
3. Thingvellir National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thingvellir National Park is not only a geological marvel but also a site of historical significance. It is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating dramatic rifts and fissures in the landscape. Thingvellir is also the site of the ancient Icelandic parliament, Althingi, established in 930 AD. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, admire the breathtaking scenery, and learn about Iceland’s history. Thingvellir itself is free, however there is a small fee for parking, but overall an excellent place to visit in Iceland to keep your vacation cost down.
If your budget allows, consider adding this epic tour to your Iceland itinerary, snorkeling the Silfra Fissure, which is in Thingvellir National Park. This once in a lifetime adventure should be added to your Iceland vacation cost, if you’re looking for unique things to do.
4. Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls
Iceland is renowned for its majestic waterfalls, and many of them are easily accessible and free to visit. Seljalandsfoss, located along the South Coast, is unique because you can walk behind the cascading water, offering a truly immersive experience. Just a short drive away is Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s largest and most powerful waterfalls. Both falls provide excellent photo opportunities and are must-visit spots for any nature enthusiast. If you’re tracking vacation cost in Iceland, both waterfalls are free to visit, but Seljalandsfoss has a small parking fee upon entering.
5. Black Sand Beaches of Vík
The black sand beaches near the village of Vík are another must-see free attraction. Reynisfjara Beach, with its striking basalt columns, black sands, and powerful Atlantic waves, is one of the most famous. Nearby, the cliffs of Dyrhólaey offer stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the sea stacks of Reynisdrangar. Remember to be cautious of the strong waves and currents while visiting these beautiful yet treacherous beaches. The Black Sand Beach is one of the best parts of an Iceland vacation and better yet, the cost is free.
6. Hot Springs and Geothermal Areas
Iceland’s geothermal activity is a major draw for visitors, and there are several hot springs and geothermal areas that can be enjoyed for free. Reykjadalur, or “Steam Valley,” near Hveragerdi, is a popular spot where you can hike through a scenic valley and relax in natural hot springs. Another notable area is the geothermal field of Haukadalur, home to the famous Geysir and Strokkur geysers. While Geysir is mostly dormant, Strokkur erupts every few minutes, delighting visitors with its natural display. If you are coming to Iceland on a budget and want to experience a hot spring, definitely look into Reykjadalur. My guide to the Golden Circle goes into more detail on this awesome hike.
7. Diamond Beach
Located near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is a stunning site where icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand shore, creating a dazzling contrast. The ice chunks, ranging from crystal clear to deep blue, sparkle like diamonds under the sunlight. This beach offers a unique and unforgettable experience, and visiting it won’t cost you a thing.
8. The Sagas and Literature
Iceland has a rich literary heritage, and you can explore this aspect of Icelandic culture for free as an activity in Reykjavik. Visit the Reykjavik City Library or the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies to learn about the Icelandic sagas, medieval literature, and modern Icelandic writing. Additionally, various literary walks and events are often free to join, providing deeper insights into the country’s storytelling traditions.
9. Walk to Solheimasndur Plane Wreck
Lastly, The Sólheimasandur plane wreck is a famous site in Iceland where a United States Navy DC-3 plane crash-landed on a black sand beach in 1973, with all crew members surviving. The stark, skeletal remains of the aircraft against the desolate landscape have become a popular destination for photographers and tourists. Even though the cost of traveling to Iceland can be high, there are still many epic activities, such as the plane wreck, that make it well worth it.
Conclusion
From the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights to the cultural riches of Reykjavik, Iceland offers a wealth of free attractions that cater to all interests. Whether you’re an adventurer, history buff, or nature lover, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Iceland without breaking the bank and keeping the cost of traveling down for a budget-friendly week of traveling. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Iceland on a budget!
