Iceland with a View
How to Pronounce Icelandic TOWNS
updated
I know how overwhelming it can be to spend countless hours combing through blog posts, reviews, and forums, trying to piece together the perfect itinerary 😩🙋♀️
And the last thing you want is to arrive in Iceland and realize that most of the info you found was outdated or even worse - inaccurate.
That's where my Iceland Guidebooks + Maps come in! 🗺️
After 9 years of exploring every corner of this magical country, I've poured all my knowledge into these guides to help fellow travelers like you plan the trip of a lifetime 📝
With my guidebooks and maps, you'll:
➡️ Discover hidden gems and local secrets
➡️ Get insider tips and up-to-date info
➡️ Access exclusive discounts to save on your trip
➡️ And so much more!
But don't just take my word for it – over 200 travelers have left 5-star reviews raving about how these guides helped them plan their dream Iceland adventure 🙌
Ready to ditch the planning stress and start getting excited about your trip?
Learn more and get your guide here👇
🔗 icelandwithaview.com/iceland-maps
If you're dying to see these cute little birds on your Iceland trip, you've gotta add Látrabjarg to your list.
It's one of the go-to spots for puffin-watching in the northwest corner of the country.
The Westfjords are straight-up magical in the summer. Picture stunning cliffs, ocean views, and adorable puffins just chilling on the rocks. It’s every animal lover’s dream!
But just a word to the wise…
Always practice precaution and don’t get too close to the edge of the cliff. The drop-off is no joke, and there aren't any barriers around.
So, who's ready to add a little puffin-watching to their Iceland itinerary? 🙋♀️
Drop a comment below if you've ever had a close encounter with these cuties in the wild! 👇
Dealing with the cold and snow? No problem.
But you know what really gets to me? Missing out on those days when I can just throw on a pair of shorts!
There’s something that’s so carefree about being able to throw on a T-shirt and shorts, aka not having to deal with wearing a bunch of layers even in the peak of summer 🫠
Now, confession time in the comments…
Who else accidentally packed a t-shirt or shorts for their Iceland trip and never got the chance to wear them? 🙋♀️
If you’re planning to visit Iceland this summer, you might think you’ve still got plenty of time, but trust me - things fill up FAST! Like 6 months in advance, fast. ⚡️
Before you know it, the best hotels, top-rated tours, and those bucket-list experiences could slip through your fingers.
If you’re a go-with-the-flow kinda guy or gal, you MIGHT want to reconsider that approach in Iceland. “Winging it” won’t get you far here.
But if you’re dreading or procrastinating the planning process because it overwhelms you…
That ends NOW, friend! 💃
Say goodbye to the headache of endless searches and hello to seamless, stress-free planning with my Iceland Travel Guidebooks + Maps.
Discover the best hotels and tours in each location, detailed maps to guide your way, and all the hidden gems that make Iceland truly magical.
So why wait and risk missing out?
Get the Maps here so you can plan your Iceland trip like a pro! 👇🏼
icelandwithaview.com/product-category/diy
(Psst. It also contains discounts that practically pay for the guide itself!)
Just imagine…
Waking up to stunning mountains, fjord views, waterfalls, and glaciers - a mere stone’s throw from your van.
Having the leisure to stop wherever you see fit - whether it’s to grab a photo opp or to take a detour to see a hidden gem 💎
Being able to chase sunsets and sights based on your whims, not someone else’s schedule 🌅
No fancy accommodation can get you this close to nature's goodness.
There’s truly nothing like being out on the Icelandic roads, just you, your travel partner, and endless freedom waiting around every bend.
If this speaks to your spirit like it does mine, Happy Campers is the go-to. As the original family-run campervan rental company in Iceland, they know the landscape like the back of their hand. And their vans are seriously decked out with EVERYTHING you need 🚐
Get 10% off your campervan escape to kickstart your road trip adventure! And be sure to use my discount code IWV10 for savings 💸
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Away from the tour buses, the long lines, and crowded tourist hotspots.
You’re dreaming of being on the open, free road.
Of having your windows down, music blasting, and the fresh Icelandic air in your lungs. 🎶
You’re not after some mass-produced experience.
You want something that’s uniquely YOU.
Where you can stop at that cozy restaurant that sells the BEST tomato soup.
Where you can take a quick detour to snap some pics of puffins perched on a cliff.
Where you’re on your own schedule, exploring Iceland one mile at a time.
I created my Iceland Guidebooks + Maps to be the perfect companion for those looking for an authentic traveler’s experience ✨
If you enjoy the planning process (rather than having every detail mapped out for you) but want those tips, tricks, and must-sees from a local's perspective, I've got you covered.
My Iceland Guides + Maps offer insider knowledge on the best places to eat, hidden gems you won't find in other guidebooks, and routes that lead you to breathtaking vistas off the beaten path.
Craving a taste of adventure on your upcoming Iceland trip?
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If you're ready to step into the heart of a glacier, you're going to want to SAVE this post and add Katla Ice Caves to your itinerary 📌
Just a stone's throw from Reykjavík, this icy wonder is totally one for the bucket list. And bonus points: unlike the natural ice caves, it’s open all year long 🙌🏼
Want the inside scoop on the best way to experience Katla with an expert guide?
Comment 'KATLA' below, and I'll share my top ice cave tour recommendation! 👇🏼
Even though I still don't consider myself fluent, I have learned a thing or two after 8 years of living in Iceland.
So, let's have some fun with a few words you’re likely pronouncing wrong as a tourist 😅
In order from easiest to hardest, here’s the line-up.
1️⃣ Vík - Pronounced: "Veek"
2️⃣ Reykjavík - Pronounced: "Ray-kya-veek" (Roll the 'R'!)
3️⃣ Þingvellir - Pronounced: "Thing-vet-leer" (Soft 'th' as in 'this')
4️⃣ Seljalandsfoss - Pronounced: "Sell-ya-lands-foss" (With a soft ‘J”)
5️⃣ Dyrhólaey - Pronounced: "Deer-ho-la-ay"
TELL ME IN THE COMMENTS…Which one is the biggest tongue twister in your opinion? 😂
But seriously, there are so many wild hot springs in the middle of nature that don’t cost a THING!
You don’t have to fork over $50-100 for an expensive hot spring ticket if you’re on a budget.
For example, This spot is absolutely MAGICAL. It’s called Reykjadalur and it’s a THERMAL RIVER!
So if you’ve ever wanted to try a lazy river - but hot - you’ll pretty much be in heaven 😌
And yep, you guessed it - it doesn’t cost a thing. (Except for a small parking fee!)
Want to discover MORE free + low-cost, local hot springs?
My Iceland Guidebooks + Maps give you the inside scoop and have all my faves marked on a convenient digital map. I’ve got 500+ pinned locations with everything from steamy hot springs to awe-inspiring hikes, striking viewpoints, trendy hot spots and so much more.
Just comment “MAPS” to get your hands on this ultimate planning resource! 👇
icelandwithaview.com/product-category/diy
And if you want my COMPLETE packing list so that your Iceland trip goes off without a hitch…
Comment “PACK” below to get my free downloadable checklist 👇🏼
icelandwithaview.com/pack
In a few words: tiny portions, fewer chemicals, and food that goes bad fast!⚡️
It’s a world of a difference from the U.S. where everything comes in mega-sizes and our food stays fresh longer (thanks to preservatives 😅)
The good news?
While your food might spoil quicker, you can honestly taste the difference in quality!
Icelanders pride themselves on having FRESH ingredients, and boy oh boy do they deliver!
Let me know in the comments…
Did you notice how cute and tiny everything all of the grocery store items were when you visited Iceland? 😂
From pricey contact lens solution to expensive makeup and OTC pain meds, I've got the insider tips to keep your wallet happy 😉
Want more expert advice for your Iceland trip? You’ve gotta grab my FREE Ultimate Iceland Packing Guide. It’s your essential toolkit to help you pack like a pro, filled with checklists, weather insights, and even a shopping guide.
Ready to take the stress out of packing?
Grab the Packing Guide here: 🔗 icelandwithaview.com/pack
Skip the umbrella, cash, and dressy clothes. Leave the horseback riding gear behind (it’s illegal!)
And if you're bringing a camera, make sure you know how to use it. (psst...or a smartphone will do most of the time!)
Now that you know what to skip, figure out what’s an Iceland MUST-HAVE with my Ultimate Iceland Packing Guide. It's your key to stress-free packing! 🇮🇸
icelandwithaview.com/pack
In a few words, it’s raw, it's rowdy, and oh-so-lively.
Surprising, right? While Iceland’s capital might not be making headlines for its nightlife like London or Berlin, Icelanders sure know how to have fun.
On a good night, downtown Reykjavík is a sea of happy faces, with everyone out to have a great time. 🍻🕺
Fair warning, though – if you're staying right downtown, it might not be the quietest of nights. But that’s nothing a pair of earplugs won’t fix!
Or if you feel like getting rowdy, why not hit up some local pubs and mingle with some Icelanders to see what it’s all about? 😉
From cozy bars where you can enjoy a pint to nightclubs where you can dance the night away, there’s something for everyone!
Do you fancy a night out in Reykjavík, or would you rather hit the hay early to be up at the crack of dawn for exploring?
Cast your votes below ⬇️
Icelanders have got compact living down to a tee. It’s actually rare for city-dwellers to live in houses - most people live in condo-style apartments.
And when it comes to household appliances in Iceland, everything’s tinier - and cuter!
From pint-sized refrigerators to compact ovens and washing machines, everything is thoughtfully designed to optimize efficiency and seamlessly fit into small living spaces.
Icelanders are also HUGE on sustainability. So not only do their homes conserve space, but precious energy and resources too ⚡️
Could you see yourself embracing the minimalist lifestyle of small-space living? Let me know in the comments 👇🏼
It's 10 a.m. on a Monday, and I'm sitting here, seriously questioning my life choices. Why?
Because I somehow agreed to celebrate Þorrablót, a traditional Icelandic festival devoted to all things rotten food.
First up on the menu:
Sour ram’s testicles.
I wish I was kidding! 🤣
Þorrablót, the name of this unique Icelandic festival, comes from 'Þorri,' the fourth winter month in the old Icelandic calendar, and 'blót,' an Old Norse term meaning a feast or sacrifice.
Let’s just say these foods are not your everyday fare. From sour ram's testicles to sheep's head to fermented shark, these dishes are…well, adventurous 😅
But as amusing as this tradition may seem, it has important roots in the country. It's a celebration of survival, of ingenious ancestral practices that in preserving this food, allowed Icelanders to survive during the harshest of winters.
Now, I’m super curious to hear…would you be brave enough to try the sour ram's testicles?
(I’ve gotta be honest, they weren’t as bad as I thought they would be! 🙆🏼♀️)
You fly into Reykjavík, and spend your first day restaurant hopping 💃
You get to visit 5-6 local restaurants, trying everything from mouthwatering lamb to the creamiest ice cream.
You’re with a small group of people and a knowledgeable, local guide who gives you the backstory on Iceland’s traditional foods.
You don’t just end the day full and satisfied after a day of delicious eating...
But you come away with a newfound understanding and a deeper appreciation for Icelandic culture.
This could be you, when you book a spot for The Reykjavík Food Walk 😍
It’s THE perfect way to start your trip off on a scrumptious note!
So who’s ready to EAT? 🙋♀️🍽️
Comment “FOOD” below if you want to do this and I’ll send you an exclusive 10% off discount code!
NO roadside stops ❌Trust me - two lanes, no shoulder, and icy conditions – it’s an accident waiting to happen.
Need that perfect shot? 📸
Pull over safely at designated stops or in a driveway. NOT on the side of the road.
And for the safest ride, I trust Blue Car Rental. 🚙💨
Comment 'BLUE' and I’ll send you an exclusive 5% discount link! 👇
One of my all time Flashback to 2020 at the start of COVID, I was quarantined in my house and thought, "where is ONE place in Iceland that I want to go right now?" The answer came right away: the glacier lagoon.
So the next day my husband and I hopped in the car and drove 4.5 hours straight to one of our favorite places in the country.
We spent THREE HOURS walking around, sitting by the shore, watching the seals, and taking in the stillness and quiet.
When the sun went down, somehow everything became even more magical. This video is from 10:32 pm in late April.
And yes, we were the only two humans around. It was incredibly emotional and special and something we will never witness again. I will cherish this memory forever.
It’s just 26 euros and drops you right in the city!
And if it’s your first time in Iceland, I’ve got your back 💚
Grab my FREE Iceland Arrival Guide 📖 packed with local tips and awesome discount codes. Ready to make Day 1 epic?
Grab the arrival guide: icelandwithaview.com/arrival
Yes, you heard it right – those cute, fluffy animals are often the unexpected roadblocks on Icelandic roads.
One sheep or a whole herd, you never know! So always keep your eyes open for these woolly wanderers 😉
Planning an epic road trip in Iceland? You'll need a trusty ride.
My top pick? Blue Car Rental. Awesome service, winter-ready vehicles, and they're a local company, so they get it. 💙
Want a sweet 5% off your rental? Just comment 'BLUE' below and I'll hook you up with the link! 👇
Translating text with the CAMERA feature!
The next time you’re traveling Iceland and see:
👉🏻 A road sign
👉🏻 A food labelat the grocery store
👉🏻 A menu
Or ANYTHING in Icelandic, this little tool is going to be your best bud 👯♀️
Simply open up your translate app and navigate to the camera icon and voilà! 📸
Say goodbye to language barrier probs once and for all 😎
This feature has definitely saved me, on more than one occasion!
Have you ever used this handy Google translate hack? Let me know in the comments ⬇️
Winter driving in Iceland is not for the faint of heart 😂
But with the proper precautions, you CAN stay safe and have an amazing winter road trip!
Here’s how 👇🏼
1️⃣ Four-wheel drive is a must for navigating winter conditions.
2️⃣ Always choose a rental with winter tires that offer extra grip or even studded tires. I recommend @bluecarrental for their winter-ready cars and 24/7 support!
3️⃣ Stay updated with weather and road conditions. Wifi is your friend here - Blue Car automatically sends emails when dangerous weather alerts pop up!
4️⃣ Drive slow on the icy + slippery Icelandic roads. DO NOT pull off on the shoulder, which are extremely narrow.
5️⃣ Be flexible and prepared. Icelandic weather can be unpredictable - always have a Plan B.
6️⃣ Stick to main roads and heed warnings.
If you want to know you’re in good hands on Icelandic roads, check out Blue Car.I’ve even got an exclusive 5% discount for Team Iceland!
Just comment “BLUE” below to snag it 👇🏼
Rain is a frequent visitor in Iceland, so don’t let clouds cramp your style. Instead have a plan to make the most of out of your day, indoors!Here are 3 ways to maximize the fun while staying dry ⬇️
👉🏼 MUSEUM HOPPING
You’re spoiled for museums in Reykjavík! I highly recommend checking out both the Whales Of Iceland and The Lava Show. ESPECIALLY if you have little ones!
👉🏼 COZY UP IN A CAFE
Hit up Reykjavík's hip café scene. Curl up, sip on something warm, and dig into some delish Icelandic treats. I mean, who can say no to some baked goods on a cloudy day, am I right?
👉🏼 ENJOY A SWIM OR SOAK
End your day with a soak or swim in one of the city’s many pools or hot springs. A lot of them are either completely indoors, or have enclosed areas, making them perfect rainy-day sanctuaries to unwind and warm up.
Want to get all of my recommendations for hot springs, museums, cafes, and SO much more?
Comment "MAPS" below and I’ll send you my Iceland map with over 500 pinned locations so you can have the best trip ever!
icelandwithaview.com/product-category/diy
Iceland makes it so freakin’ hard to choose because she’s gorgeous every month of the year!
If I had to pick a favorite it might be September - because it always reminds me of our first trip to Iceland we took for our Honeymoon 💙
What’s your pick? Quick, drop a month and tell me why! 👇
Yes, you heard that right - naked, communal showers are a thing in Iceland.
It's all about making sure the cherished pools stay clean and uncontaminated 🧼
Feeling shy? Don't worry, it's totally normal there, and privacy options are available at the most popular hot springs and pools. But at the smaller, more local spots, you might just need to bare it all 😉
What do you think - too bold or brilliant for cleanliness? Share your thoughts below! 😅👇🏼
And be sure to get my Iceland Guidebooks + Maps before you go - with over 500 pinned locations and up-to-date, practical information attractions, waterfalls, hot springs, rest stops, and MORE!
🔗 icelandwithaview.com/product-category/diy
It’s sooo important to respect closed areas and warnings! You'll often come across chains, ropes, or signs marking off-limits areas. While it may seem tempting to step over them, these are in place for YOUR safety.
Iceland’s beauty is breathtaking…but it’s also fragile. Trespassing doesn’t just put you at risk - it also damages Iceland’s delicate natural ecosystem.
So don’t be that tourist that ignores the warnings just to sneak a photo op.
Obey the signs, protect yourself and respect the environment!
Double tap if, just like me - you’re all about that responsible tourism ✌️
I’m talking about the one and only Reykjavík Food Walk.
I know what you’re thinking…”Don’t most people visit Iceland for the geysers, volcanoes, and dramatic landscapes? Is their cuisine really that noteworthy?”
Let me tell ya - it truly is!
Think super fresh seafood straight from our cold waters, and Icelandic lamb like you’ve never tasted before. We’ve got stuff you’ve definitely never tried before too…fermented shark, anyone? 🦈
But the Icelandic food scene isn’t just about tantalizing your taste buds. It’s also about connecting with local culture. The Food Walk is an incredible way to learn more about Iceland’s fascinating history and tradition - all through your stomach 😋
And as a BONUS, the tour has added some new, mouth-watering stops recently!
So…who's up for exploring Reykjavík - bite by delicious bite?
If you’re ready to add this tour to your Iceland bucket list, comment “FOOD” below and I’ll hook you up with an exclusive 10% off discount code! 👇🏼👇🏼
Starting next week!
Who are the Yule Lads, you ask?
They’re Iceland’s version of Santa Claus, except there’s no reindeer-drawn sleigh, red suit, or chimney.
Coming from a family of trolls who reside in the highlands of Iceland, these 13 brothers share their home with their witch mother Grýla and a raggedy cat named Jólakötturinn. This infamous duo is known for their wickedness - they actually devour Icelandic children who don’t get any new clothes for Christmas! 😱
The Yule Lads travel long distances across the snowy Icelandic mountains to visit children, one at a time, in the 13 nights leading up to Christmas.
Instead of cookies and milk, Icelandic children will leave the lads’ favorite snack out and place a shoe (no stockings here!) in their window to receive a small present.
You read that right – parents of these Icelandic children have to prepare THIRTEEN presents for their kids in the THIRTEEN days leading up to Christmas! Forget about any last-minute shopping with this tradition 😅
If they were good that year, they received a regular gift. If they were bad, they got a potato.
Are you ready to get to know these 13 quirky characters?
The first Yule Lads comes to town TOMORROW night and I can’t wait to introduce you to him!In the days leading up to Christmas, I’ll be spotlighting each Yule Lad here on my page.
Now tell me in the comments, who else thinks Iceland has totally mastered the art of weird + wonderful Christmas traditions? 😅
Iceland does Christmas markets exceedingly well, and Heiðmörk Christmas Market is no different!
This fairytale-like market just a 20-minute drive from Reykjavík. Nestled in the heart of Icelandic nature, this market offers a picturesque setting with live music, warm hot cocoa, and local vendors. 🎶☕
It’s also our family’s go-to spot to pick out the perfect Christmas tree 🎄So if you’re looking to soak up some holiday cheer on your Iceland trip, be sure to add Heiðmörk Christmas Market to your itinerary 📍
Would you swing by for local souvenir shopping and cocoa sipping? Let me know in the comments👇
In Iceland, you can do just that!
Here’s the deal 👇🏼
Iceland sits on a plate boundary that goes right through the country - especially prominent on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
This boundary divides the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, which over 1000s of years have slowly started to diverge, creating fissures.
Iceland built The Bridge Between Two continents between one of the largest fissures.
It's a front-row seat to one of Earth's geological wonders, plus it’s a pretty cool photo-op 📸
And I mean, how many people can say they've stood between two continents in one day?
So let me know in the comments….who's thinking of adding this to their next Iceland trip? 🌎
Exclusively for my readers, Blue Car Rental is offering 5% off your total rental price!
No code needed just use this link ➡️ bit.ly/IcelandCarDiscount
Don’t worry about fighting your way through crowds to get your epic waterfall shot - you’ll probably be one of the only ones here!
It’s about an hour’s hike up for the view - but trust me, It’s oh-so worth it 😍
Want to find more secluded spots for your adventures?
Get my Iceland Guidebooks & Maps with over 500+ pinned location - including secret waterfalls, hikes, hot springs, and so much more👇🏼
icelandwithaview.com/product-category/diy
Need To Know: Vínbúðin, open 11-6 Mon-Sat, is the exclusive spot for liquor in Iceland! (You can’t buy alcohol anywhere else on the island, except for duty-free)
🍺 Selection: It may be limited, but it’s rich with local favorites like craft beer from the region and unique Icelandic spirits!
💰 Prices: Brace for them to be higher (pro-tip: hitting duty-free on your way out of the airport can offer some serious savings! 💸)
🎉 Fun Bonus: Fancy a sample? Grabbing just ONE beer out of the pack is totally acceptable! 😉
Want to know where all the Vínbúðin stores are located? Craving more local tips on essentials, hot spots, and hidden gems?
I’ll share my Travel Guidebooks + Maps, pointing you to over 500 must-visit spots across Iceland 🇮🇸🗺️
Get the link here: icelandwithaview.com/product-category/diy
In PART 1 we hiked the Eldfell volcano, visited Eldheimar volcano museum, and visited the local brewery.
The Westmann Islands are an archipelago off the coast of South Iceland full of bright colored houses, puffins, local restaurants and a brewery – all on a little volcanic island! The ferry ride over is only 35 minutes from the mainland making this the perfect day trip from Reykjavik.
Book a Happy Camper Van ➡️ bit.ly/RentHappyCampers
And get a 10% discount with my code: IWV10
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ABOUT ME: I sold everything and moved to Iceland http://bit.ly/IcelandExpat
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// PLANNING A TRIP TO ICELAND?
Download my FREE Packing Guide - complete with weather information, practical packing tips, and a printable checklist. ➡️ bit.ly/icelandpackinglist
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// DISCLOSURE:
Thank you for trusting me with my opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when applicable. As a part of Team Iceland, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't cost extra for you but helps me to continue this channel. Thank you for your support!
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