Iceland - The magical world of northern lights and glaciers

Iceland is a country full of natural wonders, with majestic glaciers, active volcanoes, stunning waterfalls and the mysterious Northern Lights. The following is an 8-day, 7-night travel guide to Iceland, covering classic attractions such as the Northern Lights, glaciers, volcanoes and waterfalls, as well as hotel and dining recommendations.

Tour Overview
Number of days: 8 days/7 nights
Budget: US $4999 (double)
Best time to travel: September to May (Aurora season)

Inclusive Of
Hotel: 7 nights accommodation (double room).
Meals: Daily breakfast, some lunch and dinner.
Transportation: car rental or local tour group fees.
Activities: Glacier Lagoon cruise, Myvatn hot spring tickets, etc.

Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik

Activities: Arrive in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, check in to the hotel and adjust to the time difference.
Hotel: ION Adventure Hotel, Reykjavik City Center
Food: Try local specialities such as lamb soup, grilled fish or Icelandic hot dogs (Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur).
Night Tour: Weather permitting, look for the Northern Lights around the city.

Day 2: Golden Circle Tour

Þingvellir National Park: the intersection of Iceland's history and geology, the dividing line between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Geysir: Watch the geyser erupt.
Gullfoss: A spectacular double waterfall.
Meals: Lunch at a restaurant near the Golden Circle, dinner back in Reykjavik.
Night tour: Continue aurora observation.

Day 3: South Coast Adventure

Seljalandsfoss: A magical waterfall where you can walk behind it.
Skógafoss: One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland.
Black Beach (Reynisfjara): A unique beach of black volcanic sand.
Accommodation: Hotel Kría.
Dining: Try Icelandic seafood specialities.

Day 4: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

Jökulsárlón: This glacial lagoon is home to a magical landscape with huge icebergs floating on it.
Diamond Beach: Glacial fragments are scattered on the black sand beach, like diamonds.
Activities: Take a cruise on the glacier lagoon and see icebergs up close.
Accommodation: Hotel Höfn.
Dining: Try Icelandic lobster (Langoustine).

Day 5: Eastfjords and volcanic landscapes

Eastfjords: Enjoy the magnificent fjord scenery along the way.
Volcanic Landscapes: Explore the volcanic landscapes of East Iceland.
Accommodation: Hotel Hallormsstaður.
Dining: Try Icelandic lamb at a local farm restaurant.

Day 6: Lake Myvatn and volcanic hot springs

Lake Mývatn: A volcanic lake area with unique geothermal landscape.
Mývatn Nature Baths: Relax in the hot springs.
Krafla: Visit the crater and geothermal power station.
Accommodation: Fosshotel Mývatn.
Meals: Dinner at a restaurant near the hot springs.

Day 7: Akureyri and return to Reykjavik

Akureyri: The largest city in northern Iceland, visit the church and botanical gardens.
Goðafoss: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.
Return to Reykjavik: Enjoy the stunning views of northern Iceland along the way.
Accommodation: Hotel in Reykjavik city center.
Dining: Dill Restaurant (Michelin restaurant in Iceland).

Day 8: Depart Iceland

Activities: Depending on your flight time, you may have free time in downtown Reykjavík to shop for souvenirs or visit Hallgrímskirkja Church.
Airport transfer: Go to Keflavik International Airport and end your magical trip to Iceland.

Travel Tips
Aurora Observation: The best time to observe the aurora is from 10 pm to 2 am, and it is easier to see it when the weather is clear.
Clothing advice: Iceland's weather is changeable, so it is recommended to bring a waterproof jacket, warm clothes and hiking shoes.
Note for self-driving: Roads may be icy in winter, so it is recommended to choose a four-wheel drive vehicle and purchase full insurance.
Book in advance: Popular attractions and hotels in Iceland need to be booked in advance, especially during the Aurora season.
Iceland is a place full of miracles. Whether it is the aurora, glaciers or volcanoes, you will feel the shock and beauty of nature. I hope you have an unforgettable trip to Iceland!