Things to do in Vatnajokull region
Discover the best attractions and experiences Vatnajokull region has to offer
Historic Monuments
The Vatnajökull region hides a few enduring landmarks that echo Icelandic history and natural time. Here are notable sites to explore.
Kirkjugólf (Church Floor) basalt columns
A famous natural monument of hexagonal basalt columns along the Ring Road, photographed for its striking, floor-like appearance.
Hofskirkja Turf Church
One of Iceland’s best-preserved turf churches with a distinctive red roof, dating to the 19th century.
Víkurkirkja (Vík Church)
A small church perched above the black sand coast of Vík, a scenic stop with historic coastal charm.
Museums
Learn about glaciers, sea life and regional history at these local museums and information centers.
Skaftafell Visitor Centre
Information hub for Vatnajökull National Park with exhibits about glaciers, landscapes and trails.
Hornafjörður Maritime Museum (Höfn)
Exhibits on the region’s maritime history and coastal heritage.
Religious Monuments
Small churches and sacred sites offer quiet corners to reflect on Iceland’s rugged landscapes.
Hofskirkja Turf Church
A picturesque turf church with a distinctive thatched roof, rooted in 19th-century Icelandic architecture.
Víkurkirkja (Vík Church)
A charming hillside church overlooking the coast at Vík, a gentle reminder of local history.
National & Theme Parks
Two of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes are here, offering glacier, river and lava-field scenery.
Vatnajökull National Park
Europe’s largest national park by area, encompassing glaciers, volcanic formations and dynamic landscapes.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve
A scenic valley within Vatnajökull NP famous for easy to moderate hikes and waterfalls like Svartifoss.
Neighborhoods
Gateway towns and settlements that serve as bases for exploring the region.
Höfn
A bustling harbor town known for seafood, scenic views and glacier access points.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
A small village with nearby dramatic canyon landscapes and coastal scenery.
Djúpivogur
A quiet coastal village with art installations and maritime charm.
Free Things to Do
Many of the region’s highlights are accessible without an entry fee.
Diamond Beach at sunrise
Stunning ice fragments glisten on the black sand as the sun rises over Jokulsarlon.
Svartifoss hike in Skaftafell
A moderate hike leads to a basalt-column-framed waterfall, free to join.
Ring Road scenic stops
Pull over at viewpoints along the Ring Road for photo-worthy glacier and coastline views.
Gastronomy
Seafood-rich dishes and Icelandic staples showcase the region’s hardy produce.
Langoustine dishes in Höfn
Fresh local lobster (langoustine) prepared in several regional specialties.
Icelandic lamb and hearty soups
Traditional soups and lamb dishes served in mountain guesthouses and restaurants.
Skyr and local dairy products
Creamy yogurts and cheeses from nearby farms offer a tangy Icelandic treat.
Nightlife
In small towns, evenings center around cozy pubs, cafés and live folk music spots.
Pubs in Höfn
Casual bars where locals and visitors swap glacier stories over drinks.
Cafés in Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Low-key venues for a warm cup after a day outdoors.
Entertainment
Seasonal experiences bring ice, water and night skies to life.
Boat tours on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Glide among floating icebergs and Calmaqs of blue ice.
Ice cave tours
Seasonal caves carved in the glacier offer otherworldly ice sculptures.
Snowmobile tours on Vatnajökull
Adventurous guided rides across the vast ice expanse.
Sports
Active options let you feel the region’s raw terrain up close.
Glacier hiking on Vatnajökull
Guided treks across the ice to viewpoints and crevasses.
Snowmobiling on Vatnajökull
High-adrenaline rides across the glacier with instructors.
Sea kayaking near Jokulsarlon
Paddle among icebergs and calving ice in calm fjord waters.
Off the Track
Vast landscapes invite quieter explorations beyond the main sights.
Stokksnes and Vestrahorn hike
Iconic coastline with dramatic sand dunes and jagged peaks.
Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon walk
A winding canyon with mossy walls, perfect for a scenic stroll.
Hvannadalshnúkur viewpoints
Alpine viewpoints offering sweeping glacier-front panoramas.