Iceland is a study in dramatic contrasts. Rugged, craggy rocks and mountains transition to lush green fields ending abruptly at the sea. Steam rises from opaque turquoise geothermal pools set against black volcanic sand. Luminous blue and white icebergs break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and float gently across the lagoon toward the North Atlantic Ocean. The warmth of the people and culture of this remarkable island stands out like a fiery beacon against its windswept surroundings.

An Iceland cruise itinerary calling at multiple Icelandic ports offers a rewarding introduction to the country’s diverse experiences and contrasting vistas, from the modern capital city to mountainous geologic wonders to historic fishing villages on distant peninsulas.

Key takeaways

The Golden Circle route, taking in Thingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss, is Iceland’s most popular day trip and a highlight when visiting Reykjavik.

Geothermal bathing, from the Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik to the Mývatn Nature Baths in the north, is one of Iceland’s signature experiences.

Iceland’s regions each offer something distinct, from the capital’s rich culture to the volcanic scenery of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

The Golden Circle, Iceland’s most iconic day trip

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, formed as a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates (still) continually drift apart. The surrounding black volcanic cliffs, often dusted with bright green mosses and grasses, create canyons, waterfalls and valleys that must be seen to be believed. Surprisingly, this location was the site of Iceland’s first parliament in 930 AD, and a more dramatic backdrop for governmental decisions can scarcely be imagined.

Roughly 37 miles (60 kilometers) to the east, you’ll find the Geysir geothermal area, a picturesque, multicolored valley featuring bubbling hot springs, simmering mud pools and the highly active Strokkur geyser, which typically erupts every five to 10 minutes and sends water about 50 to 65 feet (15 to 20 meters) into the air, with occasional bursts reaching 130 feet (40 meters).

About 6 miles (10 kilometers) farther east takes you to Gullfoss, a spectacular two-tier waterfall dropping 105 feet (32 meters) into a canyon, surrounded by emerald-green vegetation and black volcanic walls. Visitors here describe being nearly enchanted by the constant sound of the rushing water and the mists rising from the gorge below the falls.

A curated Princess® excursion from Reykjavik makes it easy to visit all three of these sites (and includes lunch) in the Best of the Golden Circle tour.

A scenic view of Öxarárfoss river cascading through a rocky basalt canyon with golden moss and shrubs along the riverbanks, set against mountain slopes under a partly cloudy sky.
Explore the geological wonders of Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park in Iceland, where cascading river waters weave through dramatic rift valleys.

Iceland’s geothermal waters

Geothermal bathing (sometimes called “natural hot-tubbing”) is one of the quintessentially Icelandic traditions that guests can easily participate in. The Blue Lagoon is likely Iceland’s most recognizable geothermal attraction, known for its warm, mineral-rich, milky-blue water surrounded by stark volcanic landscapes. Located around 31 miles (50 kilometers) southwest of downtown Reykjavik, the lagoon offers visitors a relaxing introduction to Iceland’s geothermal bathing culture. Princess’s Bathing in the Blue Lagoon excursion from Reykjavik makes the trip simple.

In North Iceland, the Mývatn Nature Baths offer another opportunity to soak in naturally heated geothermal water. Set amid the volcanic landscapes of the Lake Mývatn region, the baths combine warm mineral-rich pools with expansive views of the surrounding countryside, providing a distinctly northern Icelandic take on the country’s centuries-old bathing tradition.

A wide view of visitors relaxing in the steaming, milky-blue geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, surrounded by dark volcanic rock formations and snowy hills bathed in soft twilight glow.
Unwind in the soothing geothermal waters of Iceland’s world-famous Blue Lagoon, where milky-blue thermal pools rise with steam amid snow-dusted black lava fields.

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Dramatic landscapes along the south coast

Iceland’s south coast showcases some of the country’s most dramatic scenery, and that’s saying something with so many memorable views to choose from in Iceland. This region features powerful waterfalls, jagged volcanic landscapes and black sand beaches shaped by the forces of ice, water and fire. Waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss plunge over high cliffs, while stretches of dark volcanic sand create a striking contrast against the blues, whites and greens of the North Atlantic surf.

Farther east, roughly 230 miles (370 kilometers) from Reykjavik and best suited to a stay before or after your cruise, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon offers an unforgettable look at Iceland’s glacial landscape. Icebergs break away from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and drift lazily through the lagoon before eventually reaching the ocean. Across the road, pieces of ice get washed ashore on Diamond Beach, and these chunks of glacial ice become translucent and clarified as they melt, sparkling like jewels in the sun against the black volcanic sand.

A massive, smooth-flowing waterfall cascades down between vibrant green, mossy cliff faces into a stony riverbed under an overcast sky.
Experience the raw power of Skógafoss along Iceland’s South Coast, where a dramatic curtain of rushing water plunges over moss-covered cliffs.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland in miniature

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula packs many of Iceland’s signature landscapes into a relatively compact region, earning it the nickname “Iceland in miniature.” Its scenery includes the glacier-topped Snæfellsjökull volcano, rugged basalt cliffs, black sand beaches, lava fields and traditional fishing villages set against the North Atlantic. 

Among the peninsula’s most recognizable sights is Kirkjufell, a distinctively shaped mountain rising near the town of Grundarfjordur. Its steep, arrowhead-shaped profile and coastal setting have made it one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks. Nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall provides a particularly memorable viewpoint, as visitors can capture images of the cascading water in the foreground with Kirkjufell rising dramatically into the sky behind it. Certain Princess itineraries make stops in Grundarfjordur, allowing guests better access to the wonders of this peninsula. Princess’s Best of Snæfellsnes Peninsula excursion visits Helgafell, Stykkishólmur, Arnarstapi and the black-pebbled beach at Djúpalónssandur.

A wide panorama shows the distinct cone-shaped, green Kirkjufell mountain rising in the background beyond cascading waterfalls pouring into a calm river basin under a partly cloudy sky.
Admire the peak of Kirkjufell on Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where the distinct arrowhead-shaped mountain towers above the serene streams and cascading waterfalls of Kirkjufellsfoss.

Outdoor adventure from glaciers to open water

Iceland’s dramatic terrain creates opportunities for outdoor experiences featuring both frozen and liquid water, for those adventurous enough. Guided glacier hikes allow guests to experience the country’s icy landscapes firsthand, with experienced mountain guides leading the way across the top of glaciers and ice fields. Princess’s Glacier Walk & Waterfalls excursion is a full-day, strenuous hike suited to guests in good physical condition who are comfortable on uneven, icy terrain, with helmets, crampons and ice axes provided. The route also stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.

At Thingvellir National Park, Silfra offers an entirely different adventure. This water-filled tectonic fissure between the North American and Eurasian plates is renowned as one of the world’s clearest snorkeling sites. Because the glacial water remains extremely cold throughout the year (a constant 35–39°F, or 2–4°C), guests wear dry suits for the experience. But for those brave enough to experience it, snorkeling in Silfra is a singularly beautiful experience. Princess’s Into the Blue Snorkeling Adventure excursion provides the dry suit, snorkel gear and a guide, with age, height and health requirements listed on the excursion page.

Whale watching is another popular outdoor activity, particularly in the waters of North Iceland. Whale watching excursions from northern ports like Akureyri offer opportunities to search for humpback whales, minke whales and other marine life while taking in Iceland’s rugged coastline views from the water. 

A line of hikers wearing helmets and backpacks walk along a dark volcanic gravel path next to a glacial lagoon, reflected in the calm water with the dramatic, ash-veined ice wall of Sólheimajökull glacier rising behind them.
Embark on an unforgettable glacier hike across Sólheimajökull in southern Iceland, where guided adventurers trek alongside ash-streaked ice ridges and glacial lagoons.

Reykjavik’s culture and the Northern Lights

Reykjavik combines distinctive architecture, a creative food scene and easy access to Iceland’s natural wonders. Hallgrímskirkja, a blade-shaped church with its soaring tower inspired by Iceland’s basalt formations, is one of the capital’s most recognizable landmarks. Along the waterfront, Harpa Concert Hall provides a striking modern contrast. Its geometric glass facade reflects changing daylight, along with the harbor and surrounding cityscape.

Iceland’s food scene offers another window into local culture, blending traditional ingredients and dishes with modern Nordic cooking. Fresh seafood and Icelandic lamb remain staples, while contemporary Reykjavik restaurants showcase local produce through creative techniques and seasonal menus. Visitors can also sample familiar Icelandic specialties such as skyr and rye bread alongside the city’s growing selection of international cuisine.

From late August through mid-April, Reykjavik can also serve as a starting point for viewing the Northern Lights. Dark, clear skies and sufficient solar activity are necessary, so sightings are never guaranteed. Traveling beyond the city’s light pollution can improve viewing conditions, with guided excursions taking visitors into darker countryside in search of the aurora.

Guests wanting a deeper dive will enjoy reading more details about Reykjavik’s sights and experiences, including things to do in Reykjavik.

Discover the charm of Reykjavík, Iceland's vibrant capital, where colorful rooftops and coastal architecture are set against the backdrop of snow-capped Mount Esja.
An elevated view overlooking the multicolored rooftops of Reykjavík buildings stretching toward the blue water of the bay, with snow-dusted mountains rising grandly in the distance under a pale sky.

Iceland’s east and west fjords

In the Westfjords, Isafjordur provides a gateway to one of Iceland’s most remote regions. Dramatic mountains rise almost directly from the water, with steep sea cliffs providing nesting grounds for vast numbers of seabirds. Scattered along the fjords are isolated fishing communities where colorful houses, working harbors and maritime culture reflect the region’s close, millennium-long connection to the North Atlantic. The combination of narrow roads, sweeping coastal views and sparsely populated landscapes gives the Westfjords a distinctly wild character that astonishes visitors to the region. Princess’s Best Of West Fjords - Dynjandi Waterfall & Villages excursion explores the region from Isafjordur.

On Iceland’s opposite coast, Seydisfjordur introduces visitors to the scenic East Fjords. The town sits at the end of a long fjord surrounded by mountains and waterfalls, providing a picturesque starting point for exploring the region. Scenic coastal drives wind between the water and mountains, passing quiet fishing villages and viewpoints overlooking the fjords. Compared with Iceland’s busiest sightseeing routes, the East Fjords offer a slower-paced experience. The coastal scenery, smaller communities and the peaceful landscapes of eastern Iceland reward guests who make the effort to travel here. Princess’s Chasing Waterfalls excursion from Seydisfjordur visits the region’s falls.

Each of Iceland’s regions shares the beauty, natural wonder and striking geography of this island nation, but each has its own distinct character. Princess’s featured Iceland ports — Reykjavik, Akureyri, Isafjordur, Grundarfjordur and Seydisfjordur — each open a different region of the country, and together they tell the story of its dramatic geological and cultural history. Explore cruises to Iceland and find your dream journey.

A tranquil view across calm fjord waters reflecting colorful seaside houses and autumn trees of Seyðisfjörður, framed by towering, snow-dusted mountain slopes under a bright sky.
Experience the postcard-perfect beauty of Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland, where colorful wooden houses and golden autumn trees reflect in the glassy waters of the fjord.

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