Beyond the dazzling aurora – what else is there to Iceland?

Exploring ice caves is one of the most popular activities when visiting Iceland. (Photo provided by Dashijia Images / Shutterstock)

As autumn deepens, it heralds the approaching winter – also the busiest season in Iceland. The reason? The spectacular auroras dance across the sky, slicing through the profound darkness of this North Atlantic island nation, adding vibrant colors to the snowy white landscape. But beyond the aurora’s breathtaking glow, what else does Iceland have to offer?

The Northern Lights can be seen in various parts of the world, but why is Iceland often considered a dream destination for travelers? Firstly, the allure is amplified by movie popularity, coupled with Iceland’s abundant tourism resources. If you’re lucky, you might even witness the powerful auroras – often seen as a symbol of happiness – right in the city. And that’s not all: soak in blue geothermal hot springs, admire the unique and magnificent natural wonders of the Golden Circle and Diamond Circle.

The sculpture garden of The Einar Jonsson Art Museum is not far from Hallgrimskirkja Church. (Photo provided by Shutterstock)

Iceland’s streets are filled with colorful buildings and quaint little shops around every corner. (Photo provided by Shutterstock)

Of course, despite Iceland’s relatively high cost of living, independent travelers can still join free walking tours in Reykjavik or explore the sculpture garden at The Einar Jonsson Art Museum. For those who are more active, hiking up Mount Esja – Reykjavik’s beautiful backyard mountain, standing about 914 meters above sea level – offers panoramic views of the expansive cityscape.

Additionally, weekend life in the capital, Reykjavik, is lively and exciting. Head to the weekend-only flea market Kolaportid to hunt for treasures among its diverse and exotic stalls. Or join an evening party – the city is dotted with local-style bars, and weekends after dark are when the nightlife truly comes alive, offering a taste of the northern island’s vibrant evening scene.

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