10 Best Places to Visit in the South of Iceland (4 Days Trip)

I’ve explored the South of Iceland extensively, and let me tell you—this region is an absolute bucket-list destination for any traveler. From towering waterfalls and black sand beaches to glaciers, volcanoes, and steaming hot springs, every turn feels like stepping into a different world.

If you're planning a trip, you need to know the best places to visit in the South of Iceland—spots that will leave you breathless and make your journey unforgettable.

This stretch of Iceland, running from Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll witness the power of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, walk along the volcanic shores of Reynisfjara Beach, and explore the raw beauty of Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe's largest glacier. Not to mention, the Golden Circle route—including the legendary Geysir Hot Springs and Gullfoss waterfall—offers a perfect introduction to Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

With firsthand experience, I’ll guide you through the must-visit attractions, the hidden gems, and the best times to visit each spot. Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights in winter or enjoying the Midnight Sun in summer, this guide will help you plan the perfect Icelandic adventure. Let’s dive into the best places to visit in the South of Iceland.

10 Things to see and do in the South of Iceland

We spent 5 days touring the south of Iceland : the first 3 days were a pure road trip, stopping at the main attractions as we headed east of the country, and leaving the last two for the capital Reykjavik . But depending on your travel plan, they can be more or less, at the beginning or at the end of the route. And you can even focus only on this part of Iceland for reasons of time, taste or weather.

In fact, we know several travelers who have dedicated an entire week to the south of Iceland and hey, if you have enough time and desire to explore, why not? But for a 7-10 day trip to Iceland , we believe that 3-5 days are enough to see most of the most spectacular places in this part of the country. At the end of the post you will find the map with our route so you know exactly what to see each day.

⭐ Still wondering what the country's must-sees are ? Here are the 15 best things to see and do in Iceland on a first trip .

Technically, the “ south of Iceland ” is considered to be the stretch of the country that runs from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón Lagoon . We also included the Höfn area since it is not too far away and our last “southern” accommodation was there. Speaking of which, these are the hotels (in chronological order) where we stayed on the tour of southern Iceland:

Day 0: Reykjavik Airport → Kef Guesthouse
Day 1: Golden Circle → Riverfront Lodge Hella
Day 2: Southern waterfalls → Fosshótel Núpar
Day 3: Glacier area → REY Stays – Small & Cozy Studio
Last 2 days: Reykjavik → Odinsve Hotel

Now, let's start our journey through the south of Iceland:

1. Golden Circle

This scenic route is not only one of the best things to do in the south of Iceland, but it is also featured in every article about the island as one of the most epic spots . And after going there, we can confirm it: the landscapes are mind-blowing and it is the perfect appetizer for what is to come…

Explore Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, admire the powerful double waterfall of the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular in the country , experience the explosion of a geyser just a few metres away in the Geysir Thermal Area , greet the hairy Icelandic horses grazing in the meadows, relax in the thermal baths of the Secret Lagoon, Laugarvatn Fontana or Hrunalaug, or walk around the Kerið Crater with a turquoise/green water lagoon inside.

The Golden Circle is undoubtedly one of the most important reasons to come to this country and the first place to point out on your route through the south of Iceland. As you can see, it is a route full of extraordinary and different places of interest , so dedicate a whole day to exploring it.

⭐ Here we tell you in detail everything to see in the Golden Circle.

golden circle iceland

2. Waterfalls in South Iceland

If there is one thing that Iceland has no shortage of, it is waterfalls, and the south is the area where most of these spectacular waterfalls are concentrated. From hidden waterfalls that appear behind narrow gorges to imposing and deafening waterfalls that envelop everything. You better have a good raincoat handy if the wind blows hard and you don't want to end up soaked.

Here we briefly name, from west to east, 5 waterfalls that are worth noting on your route through southern Iceland (we have removed Gullfoss because we already included it in the Golden Circle section):

Urridafoss is not one of the most impressive in terms of size, but it has quite a torrent of water and the surroundings are very cool to end the first trip (including a picnic area if you feel like it). If it were any other destination, it would be one of the highlights of the trip!
Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrafoss , here you will get a 2×1 since both waterfalls are connected by a path and share a parking lot. The first, Seljalandsfoss , is popular for being one of the few that allows you to walk behind its amazing waterfall! While Gljufrafoss , the secret waterfall, emerges unexpectedly from behind a canyon that opens its way through the rocks.
Skógafoss is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland thanks to its spectacular waterfall and accessibility. Don't forget to climb up to the viewing platform on the mountain on one side. Oh, and if you're lucky and the day is sunny, it's not unusual to see it dressed in a radiant rainbow.
Kvernufoss , not far from there we find this waterfall that is not so frequented but that, nevertheless, we found beautiful… In fact, we would say that it is in our top 3 of Icelandic waterfalls. You have to walk about 10-15 minutes from the parking lot but the reward is huge: here you can also walk behind the waterfall.
We personally found Stjórnarfoss to be quite beautiful, although it is not among the most popular. The parking is also very close and if you travel in summer (and you don't mind the cold waters) we are sure that a swim here must be spectacular.

⭐ Discover the 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland .

skogafoss south iceland — *Skógafoss waterfall in Iceland*

3. Abandoned planes

Yes, planes in plural. It is true that the vast majority of tourists go to see Solheimasandur since a few years ago it was a hit on Instagram, but we were too lazy to walk several kilometers to take a photo (or the alternative of paying the 25€ bus that connects it to the parking lot). And not only because we are lazy, but because the trip there and back takes about two hours and time is even more precious when you are in a destination like Iceland.

Luckily, we did some research on Google Maps and saw that there is another abandoned plane next to the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the DC-3 airplane wreck . There is a paid parking lot (1,000ISK) and the plane is just a few steps away. Great trick for lazy people like you 🙂

So what about this plane? Its story is actually less epic than you might expect … The US Navy DC-3, based in Keflavík, was flying transport flights in Iceland in the 1960s during the Cold War. On a sunny day in July 1969 , while en route to Þórshöfn , it decided to make a short detour to the Arctic Circle to enjoy the view. On its way back and landing near Sauðanes , it took an unexpected turn while braking, veering off the runway and crashing into some wood. Luckily, all four people on board were unharmed, but the plane was disabled. Over the years, some clever person asked for it to be moved to this remote location and turned into a tourist attraction.

abandoned plane iceland

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4. Vik and surroundings

We found the town of Vik to be one of the prettiest towns in southern Iceland , although to be honest there isn't much competition there hehe. In fact, a large part of its charm is due to its surroundings, but a stop here for a few hours is worth it. Our suggestions are:

Reynisfjara Beach , this black beach is known for its basalt columns and for being one of the most dangerous in the world. Seriously, don't take it lightly: at the entrance there is even a traffic light that indicates how dangerous it is at the moment depending on the tides, so pay attention and don't do anything stupid.
Dyrhólaey Cliffs is a very beautiful area and ideal for taking great photos between cliffs. In summer it is not unusual to see puffins , those cute birds with orange beaks and bulging bellies that are a symbol of Iceland. There is also a free lighthouse.
Vik Church is nothing special, but the panoramic view with the black beach of Vikurfjara in the background is worth at least a photo. It is located on a small hill and seems to watch over the city.
Black Crust pizzeria is one of the most popular places for tourists to eat in Iceland, and considering the country's dizzying prices, it doesn't even seem that expensive. The pizza costs about €20 and free water! There are vegan options.
Gígjagía (Yoda Cave) is a cave on the beach with an entrance that looks like the silhouette of Yoda haha. Seriously, a curious place like no other, whether you are a Star Wars fan or not. If you have time, it is worth a visit, and the detour from the Ring Road is only 2 minutes.

what to see in the south of iceland: vik

5. Glacier area, the great wonder of southern Iceland

The glacier area in southern Iceland was the part of the trip that inspired us the most, and the reality exceeded our expectations . Being able to stand in front of a glacier, with its imposing walls and its peaceful lagoon in which little pieces of ice float, in an overwhelming and mystical silence, is something that makes you feel all the power and magic of nature .

And you know what? In Iceland, it is even possible to sign up for a tour to walk on the glacier, visit ice caves or sail among icebergs .

Remember to get the Revolut card ( with a €10 promo ) to avoid commissions when paying and withdrawing money abroad

There are several glaciers and all of them have names that sound alien, so it was a bit complicated for us to understand how to organize the visit, but after a mini- glacier master we got it (or so we think haha). Here are some stops that we recommend in the area:

✓ Skaftafell National Park

At the Skaftafell Visitor Centre there are two short and easy trails to different points. The first one goes up to the Svartifoss Waterfall , a small waterfall surrounded by the typical basalt columns so typical of Icelandic landscapes. The second one will take you along a flat path to the edge of the Skaftafell Glacier , which you will see in the distance. It is not the best viewpoint of a glacier, but it can be an interesting appetizer.

✓ Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue

Very close by is another glacier tongue: Svínafellsjökull, where Interstellar and Batman Begins were filmed, among other super productions. And we are not surprised, because the place is amazing (one of the most impressive places we saw in the country). It is also accessible: first you have to walk along a dirt road (suitable for all types of cars) and from the parking lot it is only a 10-15 minute walk to reach an elevated area where you will be amazed.

glaciers south iceland Svinafellsjokull

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✓ Fjallsárlón Glacier

The Fjallsárlón glacier with its glacial lagoon is breathtaking and impressive, and we liked it even more. It's also super convenient because you can get there in no time from the parking lot, so there are no excuses not to stop. The water doesn't flow directly into the ocean, but the views are impressive as you'll have icebergs floating just a few meters from the parking lot.

Fjallsarlon glacier

✓ Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Although if we had to choose one place in the whole glacier area, it would definitely be Jökulsárlón. This place with an unpronounceable name (like almost everything in Iceland) is the kingdom of Frozen , with a gigantic glacier that measures more than 25 km² and a huge lagoon where icebergs of all shades of blue float. And when everything seems perfect, boom! You see seals swimming and playing in the water, because seriously, Iceland is very heavy!

There are two great activities to do on this glacier : visiting ice caves (between October and April) and taking boat/kayak tours (between May and September).

Glaciers in southern Iceland

Excursions and guided tours in the southern glaciers

⭐ You can sign up for the glacier trekking excursion all year round, although it is important to be in good physical condition and have about 3 hours of time. Crampons are included in the tour, but you must wear waterproof clothing, glasses, trekking boots and gloves.

⭐ Another unique plan will be to go trekking + visit one of the ice caves that form during the winter.

6. Diamond Beach

Just 2 minutes from the glacier lagoon, you will find one of the most curious places to see in the south of Iceland. Diamond Beach is a beach that owes its name to the iceberg pieces that reach the beach from the glacier itself. The contrast between the blue-white ice and the black sand creates an atmosphere so unreal that it seems like a set from a Hollywood movie, but no, it is the pure brutality of nature.

The truth is that in our case, stepping onto the beach was a bit of a “ what you order on Aliexpress and what you get ” moment :-p We weren’t very lucky and it was a mordor day, so the diamonds weren’t shining at their full strength.

diamond beach

7. Fjadrárgljúfur Canyon

This canyon, formed by the erosion of water and wind over thousands of years, is today an oasis of green among all the ice ! Leave your car in the free car park and walk for about 20 minutes along the path that passes several viewing points until you reach the final waterfall. However, if you don't have time or don't feel strong enough, there is a viewing point a few metres from the car park that they say is worth the visit.

We had to skip this stop because it was raining the day we visited the area and there was not much point in trekking since visibility was almost zero.

Fjadrárgljúfur canyon

8. Múlagljúfur Canyon

They say that the Múlagljúfur Canyon looks more like Hawaii than Iceland . Peculiar, covered in green (or snow if you visit in winter), it represents one of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. However, to reach the final viewpoint you have to walk about 45/60 minutes (all on a slope) , so keep that in mind if you have other things planned.

Unfortunately, we couldn't go either, as it was raining when we passed by and the weather wasn't the most pleasant (fog and all). We were very sad because it was one of the places we were most looking forward to visiting on this route through southern Iceland, but hey, another reason to come back!

Múlagljúfur Canyon

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9. Reykjavik

We firmly believe that the beauty of Iceland lies in its majestic nature, but if you can find an extra day, it's not a bad idea to spend it in its capital. Our visit coincided with the first day of Icelandic summer , a national celebration, and with a sunny day, so we were able to see a cheerful and colorful Reykjavik that we liked more than expected. Plus, the center is full of bars with happy hours hehe, which always helps!

We finished our route by car here, spending the last day before returning home and hey, it's not going to become our favorite city, but it has its little things and a pretty good atmosphere. Here is the post with the things to see and do in Reykjavik , and remember to sign up for this free tour of the capital of Iceland .

rainbow street in reykjavik

10. Hot springs, the best way to end a day in the south of Iceland

Either start it, or take a break for the middle of the day, or spend the afternoon soaking in the water… In short, any time is a good time to enjoy some warm thermal waters , surrounded by dreamlike landscapes. In the post about the best hot springs in Iceland (coming soon) you will find detailed information about each one, but you should know that in the south of Iceland you have several options. The most popular ones are:

Blue Lagoon , the most famous hot springs in the country with immense pools of milky blue waters. Info and reservation of the Blue Lagoon .
Secret Lagoon is ideal for those who are walking around the Golden Circle and want to take a break. It is also one of the cheapest spas. Information and booking of Secret Lagoon .

Other interesting hot springs and thermal baths are Sky Lagoon , Seljavallalaug , Hvammsvik or Hrunalaug . Always check Google reviews before going to find out about the status of the hot springs and their closing times and days.

⭐ We tell you which are the best thermal baths (paid and free) in Iceland .

blue lagoon hot springs iceland

More things to see in South Iceland

Do you have more time? Are you going to spend more than these 3 days in the south of Iceland and want to get to know this part of the country in depth? Here are some other plans that are definitely worthwhile:

If you are travelling between the end of April and mid-September, a trip to the Westman Islands can be an original thing to do in the south of Iceland, especially if you are not going to the eastern fjords . Why? To see puffins . You will only have to take a half-hour ferry from the port of Landeyjahöfn.
Eating on this island is not particularly cheap, we would say quite the opposite, but we do recommend having at least one meal in a local restaurant to try some typical Icelandic dish .
In the glacier area you can stop to see the Hofskirkja , one of the oldest wooden churches in the country (17th century).
On the way to Fosshotel Nupar , the hotel where we stayed, we passed through an area full of lava fields covered in moss . It was an unusual landscape, one we had never seen before and we found it incredible. Along the road we found a viewpoint where we felt like we were in the kingdom of the Smurfs hehe.

route through southern Iceland

4-5 day itinerary through southern Iceland (with map!)

As promised, here is our day-to-day route through South Iceland, with a map of the route:

Day 1 : Golden Circle.
Day 2 : Southern waterfalls area + Vik and surroundings.
Day 3 : glacier areas.
Day 4 : Reykjavik (we visited it after completing the Ring Road).
Day 5 (before going to the airport): Krysuvik geothermal area + optional Blue Lagoon

Is South Iceland worth visiting ? I think we've already answered that question implicitly, but if you haven't got it yet: of course it is . It's probably the most spectacular, varied and amazing part of one of the most spectacular, varied and amazing countries in the world!

We hope you find our guide to South Iceland , with everything to do, a map, a route and a few tips, useful! Do you know of any other places to see in South Iceland ? We can't wait to come back!

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