Travel Blog

Three visitors recently took home an unforgettable souvenir from South Iceland after attending the Viking Feast hosted by Caves of Hella and Hotel Rangá inside one of the ancient man made caves in Hella.

Are you thinking about using the Icelandair Stopover program – but not quite sure what to do with those extra days in Iceland? The beauty of the Stopover is that you can turn a simple connection between North America and Europe into a mini-holiday in Iceland, without adding extra airfare on the route. In just 1–3 days, you can see some of the country’s most iconic sights.

One of the golden rules of traveling in Iceland is: always be prepared for the weather to change. Sunshine can shift into rain, mist, or strong winds in a matter of minutes. While this might seem inconvenient if you had planned a long hike or a day exploring waterfalls, it’s actually an invitation to discover South Iceland’s indoor treasures. From fascinating museums and exhibitions to geothermal bathing, local shopping, and delicious food, there is plenty to enjoy while staying warm and dry. Below are some of the best ways to spend a rainy day in South Iceland.

One of the most unique and cherished aspects of Icelandic daily life is its bathing culture. From the smallest towns to the largest cities, geothermal pools and hot tubs are everywhere. And they are much more than just places to swim. For Icelanders, the swimming pool is a social hub, a wellness center, and in many ways, a part of the national identity.

In Iceland, food isn’t just about eating — it’s a way to connect with the land, the people, and their stories. From cozy cafés tucked beneath waterfalls to farms serving fresh produce grown just meters from your table, every stop on your journey offers a taste of Icelandic culture. This guide will lead you to the places in South Iceland where flavor meets tradition, turning every meal into part of the adventure.

Few experiences compare to standing under a clear, starry sky while the Northern Lights dance above you, painting the darkness with green, purple, and pink hues. In Iceland — and especially in South Iceland — this natural wonder feels even more magical. Here, dramatic landscapes of glaciers, black sand beaches, volcanoes, and vast open skies create the perfect stage for one of nature’s greatest shows.

Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes and untamed beauty, is known for its extremes. It’s a land where glaciers meet volcanic activity, and where icy rivers flow just a short distance from bubbling hot springs. One of Iceland’s most unique features is its abundance of geothermal water, which provides the island with natural hot springs that offer both locals and visitors a chance to experience nature in a very intimate, soothing way.

Tucked away just off the Golden Circle, Þjórsárdalur Valley remains one of South Iceland’s best-kept secrets. Carved by the mighty Þjórsá River and shadowed by the brooding presence of Mount Hekla, this lesser-traveled route is a treasure trove of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and quiet wonder. With cascading waterfalls, moss-covered lava fields, fairytale-like gorges, scenic hiking trails and ancient Viking ruins, Þjórsárdalur offers visitors a rich and varied experience—with fewer crowds.

South Iceland offers a range of fascinating museums and exhibitions where you can explore history, volcanoes, art, and culture. What better way to spend Easter than soaking up the region’s vibrant spirit?

Few things enrich a journey like connecting with local culture. It’s reflected in the landscape, traditions, and everyday life of the past. Heritage museums offer a glimpse into how Icelanders lived, worked, and endured. Insights locals value and visitors remember.

As spring arrives in South Iceland, the skies and wetlands fill with life. From puffins on sea cliffs to the eerie calls of the common snipe, this region offers incredible birdwatching opportunities. Here’s where to find them.

Iceland is home to many impressive outdoor artworks, each with its own story and connection to the nation’s cultural heritage. One of the most remarkable sculptures in South Iceland is Afrekshugur - Spirit of Achievement, created by Nína Sæmundsson, a pioneering Icelandic sculptor who overcame great challenges to make her mark in the art world.