Chasing the whimsical dancing spirits of the aurora (Aurora) on the horizon is a once-in-a-lifetime Icelandic adventure you simply must experience. Not only is it an elusive and mysterious feeling, but also the breathtakingly colorful spectacles that appear can nourish the soul with a sense of happiness, making the journey from the other side of the world to witness nature’s mystery all worthwhile. The best time to see the aurora is roughly from September to March each year, especially on clear winter nights. Embark on an Iceland self-drive trip with us. Whether or not you’ve planned to visit this dazzling northern destination, follow our steps now and immerse yourself in the alternative magic and brilliance under the aurora and starry sky.
Top 5 Iceland Self-Drive Attractions
?#1 Reykjavík
The first place you should visit in Iceland is its capital, Reykjavík — the northernmost capital in the world, located very close to the Arctic Circle and one of the best spots to view the aurora. Reykjavík is like the gateway to Iceland, a place every traveler will pass through. During the day, you can plan visits to famous attractions such as the Sun Voyager, Tjörnin Lake, Reykjavik City Hall, Hallgrimskirkja Church, and Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre. At night, depending on local weather conditions, wait for the chance to witness the spectacular colorful aurora.
# Aurora Viewing Tips
1. The best months for aurora sightings are from September to March each year
2. The probability of seeing the aurora is highest between 8 PM and midnight
3. On clear, cloudless nights
4. Away from light pollution
5. The higher the aurora index (0–9), the easier it is to see the aurora
#2 Blue Lagoon
Also known as the Blue Lagoon, this is the second must-visit spot on your Iceland self-drive trip. It offers everything you could hope for: a world-class geothermal spa resort formed by volcanic lava, rich in minerals like silicon and sulfur as well as algae, and a natural silica mud mask (Silica Mud Mask). How could you miss such an opportunity to beautify yourself and your partner? But after your face and skin are thoroughly nourished, the dreamy scene of the powdery blue lake water intermingling with swirling white mist is something I’ve longed for — why not snap a photo for Instagram and declare to the world: I’m here.
#3 Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
If you want to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of glaciers crashing and flowing, or crave the feeling of time seemingly standing still, then the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon on the Ring Road in southeastern Iceland is the perfect place. Located within Iceland’s largest Vatnajökull National Park, this natural lagoon (a glacial meltwater lake) forms at the edge of the sea. Pieces of ice, as clear as diamonds, slide slowly into the ocean under gravity’s pull. In these moments, you’ll find yourself involuntarily stopping in awe, deeply realizing the profound impact of the glacier’s gradual retreat on the planet and humanity.
#4 Iceland Plate Tectonics Snorkeling Tour
How rare is it to go snorkeling in the crack between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates?! Rather than calling it a polar expedition, it’s more like directly venturing into one of the world’s most precious hidden wonders. Snorkel in crystal-clear, highly visible waters — no marine life, no glamorous coral reefs, just the massive fissure created by the Earth’s crust over history. No scuba diving experience is needed here; just put on a wetsuit and bring a heart full of reverence to experience a unique underwater adventure unlike ordinary ocean dives.
#5 Skógafoss Waterfall
Also known as the Rainbow Falls, Skógafoss earns its nickname due to its powerful water flow and abundant mist, often creating rainbows on sunny days. This rainbow waterfall, standing about 60 meters tall beside the Ring Road 1, has a hiking trail leading to a viewpoint where you can overlook the vast fields, mountain landscapes, and distant coastlines. With the rushing waterfall, vibrant rainbows, occasional blue skies and white clouds, and the wide-open views before you — what more could you ask for on a trip like this?
Top Picks for Iceland Self-Drive Accommodation
#1 Ice Apartments Reykjavik
This hotel offers 8 non-smoking apartments, similar to family suites, each with a kitchen equipped with cookware, refrigerator, gas stove, microwave, and dishwasher — perfect for travelers who wish to cook their own meals. The open living area includes sofa beds and tables, ideal for chatting and dining with family or travel companions. Its location is highly convenient, not only near supermarkets and shops but also within walking distance of several popular Reykjavík attractions such as Hallgrimskirkja Church, Reykjavik City Hall, the National Theatre of Iceland, Reykjavik Pond, and the seaside.
#2 Farmhouse Lodge
This seemingly secluded farmhouse lodge is located in the town of Vík (VIK) in southern Iceland. Don’t let its modest appearance fool you — the large floor-to-ceiling windows offer guests sweeping views from the lawn and sheep to the lake and the stunning black sand beach. During quiet moments, you can also enjoy the beauty of sunrise and sunset amidst the boundless highland meadows. The seven guest rooms are designed for warmth and comfort, with cozy layouts and thoughtfully arranged shared bathrooms. The lack of light pollution and the surrounding vast wilderness greatly increase your chances of seeing the aurora at night, making it one of Iceland’s recommended accommodations.
In addition, there’s aurora-viewing accommodation in Iceland you absolutely shouldn’t miss — where you can watch the aurora from your bed.
#HotelsCombined Featured Writer · Li Sanyi
Original URL gt;