Top Things to Do on Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland

The Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland is sometimes an underrated or overlooked part of the country. However, it’s well worth adding seeing this headland in the southwest to your Iceland itinerary. 

Home to Keflavik Airport, many travellers leave the Reykjanes Peninsula and go straight to Reykjavik. If you stick around and explore, though, you’ll find gorgeous geothermal features, lava fields, coastlines and some of the top things to do and see in Iceland overall.

Here's everything you need to know about the Reykjanes Peninsula, and how to make the most of your time in this unique part of Iceland.  

Where is the Reykjanes Peninsula?

If you look at a map of all of Iceland, you’ll notice, in the southwest corner, there’s a little tiny peninsula that juts out from the country and into the Atlantic Ocean. That’s the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Reykjanes Peninsula is where you’ll find Keflavík International Airport, and the peninsula is overall just a short drive away from Reykjavik and the Golden Circle. It’s an easy addition to most road trips, too, if you’re getting a rental car in Iceland, whether you’re taking a southern Iceland road trip down to Vik or you’re taking a larger Ring Road self-driving trip around the entirety of the island.

Still, a lot of people inadvertently overlook the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is a real shame.

Why Do People Always Forget About the Reykjanes Peninsula?

If there are plenty of reasons to visit Reykjanes Peninsula, and it’s so convenient to do so, why do so many travellers overlook it when planning their Iceland trip? There are a few factors at play.

First of all, people might accidentally assume that the Reykjanes Peninsula only really has the airport, so while they might arrive in Keflavik, on the peninsula, they assume they need to drive further away to find anything interesting to do.

Additionally, the Peninsula doesn’t get as much media attention or social media love as other Iceland areas, such as Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, the South Coast, or the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s just not as well-known.

However, this is all great news for you. As it’s still slightly overlooked, that means that you can visit the peninsula during your next trip to Iceland, and enjoy a bit of a hidden gem, without the same tourist crowds that you’ll get around Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and areas of the South Coast.

What to See on the Reykjanes Peninsula

The Reykjanes Peninsula is packed with interesting things to see and do, but since it’s a relatively compact area, you’ll be able to easily see and do it all in just a day. You will want an Iceland rental car to get around as conveniently as possible, but since you can pick up your rental car with Lava Car Rental right at Keflavik Airport, that’ll be no issue either.

Here are some of our top-recommended things to experience when visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula.

The Blue Lagoon

There is one highly famous site on the Reykjanes Peninsula, and that’s The Blue Lagoon. Still, even though thousands of people know and visit the Blue Lagoon during their Iceland trip, they don’t explore the peninsula further. So, while yes, you’ll run into some crowds at this world-renowned geothermal spa, rest assured that these crowds don’t infiltrate the rest of the peninsula, and the crowds are well worth it, due to just how spectacular the Blue Lagoon is.

The Blue Lagoon features expansive natural pools filled with warm, vibrant blue mineral water. Buying a pass to the lagoon allows you to swim around in the pools, enjoying drinks and mud masks, or you can head into one of the saunas. There are also food options on site, as well as adjacent accommodations.

The Bridge Between Continents

The North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet on the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the small bridge between continents allows you to literally walk right over the fissure. It’s a very unique opportunity to see where North America and Europe meet, and one that you won’t soon forget!

^{Photo by Reykjanes Geopark}

Gunnuhver Hot Springs

Iceland is known for its hot springs, but not all are safe for swimming, as is the case with Gunnuhver Hot Springs. These incredibly powerful hot springs are best viewed from a short distance away, where you can take plenty of photos from a safe walkway, of all the billowing smoke rising up from the rugged, otherworldly landscape.

^{Photo by Reykjanes Geopark}

Krýsuvík Geothermal Area

Another geothermal area on the peninsula, Krysuvik geothermal area is likewise not a place where you’d want to take a dip. Instead, you can take to the safe walkways to view the bright and colourful hot springs, and the bubbly mud pools. Hike to an overlooking hill to see the geothermal area’s beautiful colours, the surrounding lava fields and volcanic craters, as well as the Atlantic Ocean in the distance. The area is also home to a bright green flooded crater lake, Grænavatn. It’s additionally part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, which means the geothermal area is internationally recognized as a spot of geological significance. 

Reykjanesviti Lighthouse and Valahnúkamöl

History lovers — as well as those who just appreciate a good view — won’t want to miss a visit to Reykjanesviti Lighthouse. This is the oldest lighthouse in the entire country and you can take in the views of the Atlantic from this beautiful spot, where the lighthouse has guided ships since its construction in 1878.

Don’t merely stop your rental car, get out and take some photos, though. Also, walk out to the Valahnúkamöl sea cliffs for even greater views, plus some potential wildlife and birdwatching. 

^{Photo by Reykjanes Geopark}

Kleifarvatn Lake

This is the largest lake on the peninsula, as well as one of the largest lakes in the region, and one of the deepest in Iceland overall. In fact, it’s so deep and mysterious looking, surrounded as it is by the rocky, dramatic hillsides, that lore has popped up saying that a lake monster lurks beneath the lake’s gentle surface.

^{Photo by Reykjanes Geopark}

The Volcanoes of Reykjanes

You can visit active volcanic systems all around Iceland, including on the Reykjanes Peninsula. 

You may’ve seen the Fagradalsfjall eruptions in the news and, in addition to visiting that spot, you can also visit Sundhnukur Crater Row. Overall, the peninsula has been highly active, in terms of volcanic eruptions, since 2021, so it’s the place to go if you want to view the ever-changing landscape before it changes yet again, with a future eruption.

Pack your hiking boots for this adventure, as you’ll have multiple hiking options around the volcanic areas, with differing levels of trail difficulty.

The Coastal Villages

Lastly, you’ll want to be sure that you stop into some of the small villages on the peninsula, including Grindavík and Sandgerði. These fishing villages offer quaint scenery, an authentic local vibe and the chance to try traditional Iceland food in small restaurants, many of them serving the fish or lobster caught just steps away from their doors.

What to Do in Reykjanes Peninsula?

Beyond just visiting some of the above, top scenic sites, there are also a few specific activities that you’ll want to consider adding to your Iceland itinerary, no matter where you end up going to enjoy them.

• Hiking: There are many great places to hike on the Reykjanes Peninsula, including at the Sundhnuksgiggar eruption site, Fagradalsfjall eruption site and around Kleifarvatn. There’s a mix of hiking for all skill levels, but no matter which hike you choose, be sure to wear the appropriate hiking gear and never walk on the lava when visiting one of the recent eruption sites.
• Photography: With so much spectacular scenery, Reykjanes Peninsula is a favourite with photographers no matter what time of year they’re visiting. Plan to head out on a photography excursion at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting, but always remember, no matter where you are in Iceland, that you can’t pull off the road just anywhere to stop and take photos. Dedicated, paved pull-off areas are the only places to safely and legally do so.
• Birdwatching: As mentioned, the Valahnukamol cliffs are great for birdwatching in the summer!
• Exploring the lava fields: From the most recent eruptions to lava fields formed long, long ago, there’s no shortage of lava fields to see around the peninsula, giving the entire region an almost lunar-like quality. Just be sure, when you explore, to not step on the delicate moss that’s grown over the lava fields, as you can cause long-lasting damage.
• Geothermal bathing: Whether you go to the Blue Lagoon or a less crowded, smaller geothermal bathing spot, geothermal bathing is a top Iceland activity all year-round. So, when you’re packing for Iceland, be sure to pack your bathing suit, even if you’re visiting during winter!
• Sightseeing drives: Of course, one of the best things to do is drive around the peninsula, taking in the scenery. When you rent a car in Iceland for your trip, you’ll be able to go on spectacular sightseeing drives, at your own pace.  

When to Visit Reykjanes Peninsula?

Unlike some parts of Iceland that are only accessible during the summer months, you can visit Reykjanes Peninsula any time of the year. Summer is perfect if you want to enjoy a lot of outdoor activities, like hiking, and take advantage of the extended daylight hours. Winter, though, provides its own beauty, as well as the opportunity to go Northern Lights chasing.

Additionally, even if you don’t spend the entirety of your trip to Iceland exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula, the fact that the airport is there makes seeing the peninsula an easy add-on to the start or end of any trip.

How Long to Visit Reykjanes Peninsula?

As the Reykjanes Peninsula is rather small, you won’t need a huge amount of time to see the top sites. If you just want to see the major sites, such as the Blue Lagoon, Gunnuhver Hot Springs and the Bridge Between Continents, you can easily do all of that in just a day. If, though, you want to do it all, then maybe go on a long hike, and stop into the small villages and eat, etc., while not rushing around, you may want to spend two days here.

How to Visit Reykjanes Peninsula

The easiest, most convenient and most enjoyable way to visit the Reykjanes Peninsula is by booking an Iceland rental car. With Lava Car Rental, you can pick up your rental car easily as soon as you land at Keflavik Airport, and then you’ll be off on your adventures.

Note that while you can get a bus ride from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik, public transportation around the peninsula is very limited otherwise, so it’s not ideal for sightseeing. Additionally, while tour groups do come out to the peninsula, they often leave from Reykjavik and they won’t give you a comprehensive, relaxed experience.

To see everything you want to see, at your own pace, an Iceland car rental is your best choice.

FAQ About Visiting Reykjanes Peninsula

Is the Reykjanes Peninsula worth visiting?
Yes, Reykjanes Peninsula is very worth a visit, as it’s conveniently located near both Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik, while being less crowded than areas like the Golden Circle. Plus, the peninsula is home to volcanoes, hot springs, rugged cliffsides and more, for a quick, compact taste of Iceland that you can explore with just a few hours.

Can you visit Reykjanes in winter?
Yes, the Reykjanes Peninsula is easy to get to even in the winter, and the roadways are well maintained for easier driving your Iceland car rental around the region.

How long should I spend in Reykjanes?
If you just want to see the top sites in Reykjanes, you can do so in a few hours to a full day, but if you really want an immersive experience, including hiking, visiting small villages, etc., you may want to stay two days.

Do I need a car to explore Reykjanes?
Yes, renting a car in Iceland is the best way to explore Reykjanes, as both public transportation and guided tours are limited.

What are the must-see attractions?
The top attractions in Reykjanes include the Blue Lagoon, Gunnuhver hot springs, Reykjanesviti lighthouse, Kleifarvatn Lake, the Bridge Between Continents and the new lava fields from the Fagradalsfjall eruptions.

Start Planning Your Reykjanes Peninsula Trip Now

Visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula while in Iceland is an excellent way to see some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes, conveniently and away from the crowds. Renting a car makes it easy to see the peninsula at your own pace, whether you’re renting a car at Keflavik Airport and heading out to Reykjanes as soon as you arrive, or you’re going on a broader Iceland road trip and stopping into Reykjanes before you leave.

Let Lava Car Rental help you find your perfect car rental for an Iceland trip. Whether you need a compact vehicle for a summer trip or an SUV that can fit the entire family, you have options among our fleet of adventure-ready vehicles.