Start With Reykjavík
If you’re flying into Iceland, Reykjavík is an easy place to base yourself, especially for a short trip. The city gives you restaurants, cafés, shops, and a cozy place to return to after a day exploring the landscape.
For a shorter visit, I’d resist the urge to spend too much time moving between hotels. Pick a convenient base and use your days for exploring.
See an Icelandic Waterfall
One of my favorite parts of Iceland was seeing its waterfalls in person.
The landscape around Gullfoss feels almost unreal, particularly when the surrounding landscape is covered in snow and ice. The scale is difficult to capture in a photograph. You can hear the water before you fully see the falls, and then suddenly you’re standing above this enormous canyon.
If you’re visiting Iceland for only a few days, adding a waterfall stop to your itinerary is absolutely worth it.
Experience the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon was another highlight of the trip.
There is something especially surreal about being in warm, milky-blue geothermal water while surrounded by Iceland’s volcanic landscape. If you’re visiting during the colder months, the contrast makes the experience even more memorable.
Tip: Book your time slot ahead of your trip. The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular experiences, so it’s not something I’d leave until the last minute.
And don’t forget your swimsuit, waterproof sandals, and something warm to put on afterward.
Don’t Give Up on the Northern Lights
Seeing the Northern Lights was probably the most unforgettable part of my trip.
There is no guarantee you’ll see them, even during the right season. The aurora depends on darkness, cloud cover, and solar activity, so flexibility is important.
If seeing the Northern Lights is high on your list, plan your trip during the darker months and give yourself more than one night to look for them. Getting away from bright city lights can also help.
I was lucky enough to see them, and it was one of those travel moments that photographs really don’t do justice.
What to Pack for a Short Iceland Trip
Even for a quick trip, packing for Iceland requires a little strategy. The weather can change quickly, so layers are your best friend.
I’d bring:
- A waterproof jacket
- Warm sweaters or fleece layers
- Waterproof shoes or boots
- Warm socks
- Hat and gloves
- Swimsuit for the geothermal pools
- Comfortable clothes for exploring
- A portable charger
And don’t forget something comfortable for the long drives between destinations. The scenery is beautiful, but you’ll want to be prepared for changing weather along the way.
A Few Tips for Your First Iceland Trip
Give yourself some flexibility. Weather can affect driving conditions and outdoor plans, particularly outside of summer.
Don’t try to see everything. For a short trip, focus on a few experiences rather than attempting to cover the entire country.
Book popular experiences ahead. This is especially important for places like the Blue Lagoon.
Check the forecast before chasing the Northern Lights. Clear skies make a huge difference.
Leave room for the unexpected. Some of my favorite memories came from simply being outside and taking in the landscape.
Final Thoughts
My Iceland trip may have been short, but it was enough to understand why the country leaves such a lasting impression.
A waterfall surrounded by snow. Warm geothermal water against a cold landscape. The Northern Lights moving across a dark sky.
You don’t necessarily need a long itinerary to experience the magic of Iceland. Sometimes a few unforgettable moments are enough.
xoxo, Coco 
