Want to visit Iceland but aren’t sure where to go? We can help! Use this list of the most popular cities in Iceland to help you plan your trip. There are 63 towns in Iceland. Most of them are very small, with only a few things to see and do. But today, we present the top seven Iceland cities you need to visit and what makes them so unique.
Our list comprises the best Iceland cities to visit and the best towns to stay in Iceland. Although the country itself is quite large, Icelandic towns and cities are rather small. The island has around 360,000 occupants in total. Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is home to two-thirds of the total Icelandic population. The remaining 120,000 residents are spread among the other 62 towns. While going through our list, keep in mind that a village or a small town generally has around 300 residents.
Can you imagine the type of secluded picturesque atmosphere these places exude?
Let’s dive in and explore the most popular cities in Iceland!
Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the largest of the major cities in Iceland. It is the capital of the country and a major hub for many festivals and activities. It is located on the southwest coast of the country, and it is one of the best cities in Iceland to visit and explore. Although Reykjavik is the biggest city, it is a very walkable and pleasant city.
Popular attractions to see in Reykjavik include:
- Hallgrimskirkja Church
- Old Harbor
- Pearlan Museum
- Small boutiques selling anything from clothes to pottery
- Small eateries and cafes
- Mount Esja (beautiful hike)
- Heidmork Natural Reserve
- Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach
Reykjavik is one of the best cities to visit in Iceland as it is tucked away between beautiful mountains, full of active wildlife, and right on the coast where you can smell the waves of the Atlantic. It effortlessly combines rustic charm with modern amenities.
Akureyri
Akureyri has been growing in population in the last few years thanks to its favorable conditions for agriculture. Much like most towns in Iceland, Akureyri is extremely picturesque with a lot of small cultural and historical museums. If you are going to Akureyri make sure to visit the Botanical Garden where you can literally learn about every single plant that grows in Iceland.
Húsavík
Húsavík is said to be the site where the first settlement in Iceland happened. The first settlement story features a Viking who visited and left soon after, but he left two of his slaves on the island. The slaves built a farm there, and the town is now one of Iceland’s main tourist towns. It is the biggest town in the northeast of the country, and many people choose to visit Húsavík because of its incredible whale watching and hiking.
Vík í Mýrdal
It seems that all Iceland cities and towns have something charming and unique to offer to visitors. Vik is the southernmost village in the country, and less than 200 people live there. Regardless of its tiny population, the tourism sector is well-developed, primarily due to its stunning coastlines. Vik is situated underneath a huge volcano, and even though the town is tiny, the picture of it will stay with you forever!
Some of the most popular things to do in Vik include:
- Visit the Hillside Vik Church
- Try the local food (meat soups)
- Play Golf
- Explore the caves
- Visit the Reynisfjall Mountain
- Beer tasting
- Stay overnight in one of the best hotels in Vik
- See the Northern Lights (this alone is a good enough reason to go to Vik)
- View the lava show
Seyðisfjörður
This is one of the most visually climactic Iceland cities because of its overwhelmingly beautiful landscapes and quaint little houses. This whole town is defined by creativity, and the people are well-known for being very friendly and hospitable. If you decide to visit Seyðisfjörður, go hiking and experience the cascading waterfalls!
Kópavogur
Kópavogur is located very close to the capital, Reykjavik, and it is known for its charming bay, which gives the town the name of “Baby Seal Bay.” This is the perfect little spot to explore if you are visiting with your family.
Popular things to do in Kópavogur include:
- The Swimming pools
- The mall Smaralind
- Gerðarsafn – Kópavogur Art Museum
Another great feature of Kópavogur is that you can find cheaper accommodation than in Reykjavik and still be close to the capital.
Hafnarfjörður
Here is where you can immerse yourself in culture and history. Hafnarfjörður is well known for its lava, Vikings, and elves. It is located close to Reykjavik, but Hafnarfjörður has an entirely different vibe. It is a lively village with a bustling center, cafes, and restaurants.
Some of the most popular things to do in Hafnarfjörður include:
- Swimming pools (special attention to the Suðurbæjarlaug swimming pool)
- Heritage museum
- Excellent cafes and restaurants
The village is also known for its famous Viking festival that takes place in mid-June annually.
See Iceland Cities With Rent.is
If you are looking for the best way to explore all these must-see cities and more, then an Iceland camper van is the best option! Choose a camper van and drive from town to town, taking your time to explore and discover the magic of Iceland. Contact us today for more information.
