Safest Places in Iceland for Solo Female Travelers
1, Reykjavík
Reykjavík, the capital and largest city of Iceland, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural sophistication. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Iceland, Reykjavík is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, vibrant arts scene, and rich Viking history. It serves as a gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, with its volcanic scenery, geothermal pools, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Visitors to the city can explore world-class museums such as the National and Saga Museum, partake in exotic Icelandic cuisine, or marvel at the stunning architecture of the Hallgrimskirkja Church and the Harpa Concert Hall. Despite its frosty name, Reykjavík exudes a warm, welcoming charm that makes each visitor's experience unforgettable.
2, Akureyri
Nestled into northern Iceland, Akureyri, often referred to as the "Capital of North Iceland," is a charming town that brings together awe-inspiring nature and a vibrant cultural scene. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it's a dreamy destination for both winter and summer outdoor activities - from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and horseback riding. The town is famous for its botanical gardens, which hosts an assortment of Arctic flora, and its remarkable collection of art galleries. Close to the iconic geothermal Myvatn Lake and the dramatic Godafoss Waterfall, Akureyri is a perfect base for nature-loving travelers, making it one of Iceland's top tourism destinations. Its cozy cafes, mouthwatering local cuisine, and unique Nordic architecture add to the warm, inviting ambiance of a town which, despite its small size, leaves a grand impression.
3, Vik
Vik is an enchanting coastal village located in the southernmost part of Iceland, surrounded by beautiful landscapes consisting of dramatic cliffs, black sand beaches, and unique basalt sea stacks. This quaint town is renowned for its eye-catching natural attractions including the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, the iconic Reynisdrangar rocks, and the expansive Dyrhólaey peninsula which offers breathtaking panoramic views. The birdwatchers are treated exceptionally as Vik serves as a habitat for puffins during the summer season. Encrusted with icy glaciers and volcanoes, Vik also stands in close proximity to the mighty Katla volcano, making it a must-see destination for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.
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4, East Iceland
Located in the magnificent land of fire and ice, East Iceland is a captivating travel destination revered for its exquisite natural beauty. This area, brimming with towering fjords, verdant forests, and serene lakes, offers a less-touristy and peaceful experience compared to Iceland's other regions. It is known for its incredible geology, including the stunning Vatnajökull glacier, and unique wildlife, with the chance to spot the elusive reindeer and the largest population of the Icelandic reindeer. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the traditional Icelandic villages scattered around, like Seyðisfjörður, renowned for its charmingly colourful wooden buildings and vibrant art scene. From exploring mystical lava fields, hiking through trails with breathtaking views, to enjoying the warm hospitality of its small townships, East Iceland promises a diverse and intriguing escapade that encapsulates the raw and unspoiled beauty of Iceland.
5, Djupivogur
Djupivogur is a quaint fishing village situated on the east coast of Iceland, known for its strikingly beautiful and tranquil surroundings. Home to approximately 400 residents, it serves as a gateway to Papey Island and the magnificent iceberg-laden landscapes of Vatnajokull National Park. Djupivogur’s charm lies in its rich history, with colourfully preserved 19th-century wooden houses giving a glimpse into the rustic past. It hosts Langabúð, the oldest trading house in the country, now functioning as a museum and café. Boasting a diverse birdlife, the settlement is also famed for being part of 'The Stone Collection,' an outdoors exhibition of beautiful and rare Icelandic minerals. Visitors are enthralled by the scenic hiking routes and boat tours that Djupivogur offers, liaising with the untouched raw nature of Iceland.++
6, Hofn
Hofn, located on Iceland's southeast coast, is a charming fishing village known as the country’s lobster capital. Embellished with the majestic beauty of the Vatnajokull Glacier to its west, Hofn offers an idyllic panorama of glistening glaciers, black sand beaches, and mesmerizing northern lights. Renowned for its annual summer lobster festival and outdoor activities, Hofn allows wanderers to explore the breathtakingly beautiful Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, hike the mesmerizing trails around Vatnajokull National Park and take boat tours to nearby ice caves. Its close proximity to black sand dunes and vivid wildlife environment also make it a delightful spot for adventurous travelers.
7, Hornafjordur
Located in the southeastern region of Iceland, facing the Atlantic Ocean, Hornafjordur is a vast district known for its natural splendour. Renowned for its breathtaking fjords, diverse wildlife, and stunning glaciers, it is an adventurer's paradise, rich with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and experiencing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. The district features Vatnajokull, Europe's largest glacier, and Jökulsárlón, an enchanting glacial lagoon where visitors can witness the incredible sight of giant icebergs calving from the glacier. The area's extraordinary beauty is heightened by its uninhabited scenery, offering guests an authentic and tranquil Icelandic experience.
8, Húsavík
Húsavík, a charming coastal town in northern Iceland, is considered as the whale watching capital of Europe. Nestled on the edge of the breathtakingly scenic Skjálfandi Bay, it's a place where icy beauty meets vibrant local life. Renowned for its close encounters with a myriad of marine wildlife including humpbacks, blue whales and orcas, Húsavík offers some of the best opportunities for whale watching in the world. The uniquely alluring Icelandic nature, the famous wooden church, and the fascinating Whale Museum add further allure to this picturesque, must-visit destination.
9, Reykjahlíð
Reykjahlíð is a captivating small village located in northeast Iceland, nestled on the shores of the expansive Mývatn Lake. As the gateway to the volcanic wonderland of Mývatn, Reykjahlíð is known for its exquisite natural wonders and stunning geological variants. In its close vicinity, you can find the awe-inspiring pseudo-craters of Skútustaðir, the fascinating Mývatn Nature Baths, and the distinctive rock formations at Dimmuborgir. Besides breathtaking landscapes, Reykjahlíð also holds historical significance as it was the survivor of a major lava flow in the 18th century with its church being deliberately spared by the molten flow. A trip to this quaint yet rich Icelandic village promises an adventurous exploration into the world of natural beauty and mystical folklore.
10, Western Region
The Western Region of Iceland, also known as Vesturland, is a mesmerizing destination beloved for its natural wonders and the rugged charm of its landscapes. Nestled on the country's west coast, it features an idyllic assortment of stunning fjords, mountains, gushing waterfalls, and quaint, historic fishing villages. The region is home to Snæfellsjökull National Park, which boasts a glacial-capped volcano known for inspiring Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth". It is also known for the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as 'Iceland in Miniature' because of its diverse landmarks and geological phenomena. Vesturland's allure extends to its rich wildlife, which includes a diverse range of birds and often seals, and potentially whales, seen from its shoreline, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
11, Skaftafell
Located in the magnificent Southeast Iceland within the Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is renowned for its unique and breathtaking natural beauty. It is characterized by a captivating collection of features that are a testament to the prerogatives of glaciation and seismic activity. Skaftafell offers true greenery amidst stark Icelandic landscapes, housing majestic waterfalls, deep valleys, grand glaciers, and unspoiled ice caves. Known predominantly for its stunning glacier tours and treks, it's also home to the famed Svartifoss waterfall, notable for its unusual basalt columns surrounding it. The hiking trails reward visitors with a panoramic view of what many call the toughest of all Icelandic landscapes, making Skaftafell a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
12, Kirkjubaejarklaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur, often referred to as Klaustur, is a charming village located in South Iceland nestled close to the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull. Enwrapped in enchanting landscapes, it's famed for its exceptional natural beauty and unique geological formations. It's an ideal base for visitors exploring the stunning Vatnajökull National Park, the dramatic volcanic canyon of Fjaðrárgljúfur, and the black sand desert of Mýrdalssandur. Moreover, its historical importance as the site of a medieval convent, its enchanted forest of Kirkjugolf, and a breathtaking waterfall, Systrafoss, adds to its allure. To top it all, the Northern Lights often grace the skies of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, making it a must-visit destination for an unforgettable Icelandic experience.
13, Fludir
Fludir, beautifully nestled in the exotic landscapes of Iceland's Southern region, is a nature lover's paradise. Known for its captivating greenhouses, rich alfalfa fields, and idyllic farms, the town provides solace away from the urban rush. It is particularly acclaimed for its geothermal pools, among which the Secret Lagoon, or Gamla Laugin, is a standout - being the oldest natural pool in the country. With its gorgeous turquoise waters, gentle hot springs, and the nearby Little Geysir which playfully erupts every few minutes, Fludir showcases the breathtaking beauty that Iceland generously offers. The area also features the esteemed organic food project, Friðheimar, where visitors can feast on home-grown produce in a greenhouse turned restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience.
14, Hella
Located in the southern region of Iceland, on the banks of Þverá river and overlooking the beautiful Arnarfell mountain, sits the picturesque town of Hella. Renowned for its phenomenal natural allure, Hella is celebrated for its proximity to the captivating and towering volcano, Hekla, which attracts hikers and adventurers from around the globe. With an abundance of Icelandic ponies in nearby farms, equestrian tourism is a popular activity amongst visitors. Hella’s rural setting invokes tranquility and provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the elusive Northern Lights, making it a dream destination for stargazers and aurora borealis enthusiasts. Despite its small size, this cultural hub also hosts an annual music event, “Núðluskálin” that draws in music lovers from all corners.
15, Vestmannaeyjar
Located off the southern coast of Iceland, Vestmannaeyjar, also known as Westman Islands, offer a unique and engaging experience for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The archipelago is known for its unique volcanic landscape that was dramatically reshaped by the eruption of Eldfell in 1973. Today, visitors can explore the resulting lava fields and climb the Eldfell volcano to marvel at breathtaking views. Vestmannaeyjar's rich biodiversity, with an abundance of bird species including the world's largest puffin colony, is another major draw for eco-tourists. The annual Þjóðhátíð festival, a distinct cultural event full of Icelandic traditions, music, and fireworks, also pulls in a large crowd, making Vestmannaeyjar a thrilling destination.
16, Selfoss
Located in the southern region of the picture-perfect country of Iceland, Selfoss basks in an exquisite blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. This idyllic town, nestled in proximity to the Ölfusá River, is renowned for the stunning Selfoss Waterfall cascading down from the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River. It also acts as an excellent strategic base camp for golden-circle hotspots like Geysir and the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall. It bears a reputation for its enchanting geothermal pools, local gastronomic delights, and a glorious church that brilliantly reflects modern architecture. During summer, Selfoss blooms into a vibrant hub for an annual summer festival, "Sumar á Selfoss," displaying an enticing combination of Icelandic culture, food, and music.
17, Reykholt
Reykholt, nestled in the stunning west of Iceland, is a small historic village that offers more than meets the eye. Primarily known as the home of the renowned Icelandic Sagas' scholar Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century, Reykholt is deeply entrenched with riveting Icelandic history and culture. You'll experience firsthand testimony to Snorri's presence through the Snorrastofa Cultural and Medieval Centre, Snorri's pool, and the tunnel connecting them. Reykholt is also remarkable for its astounding natural wonders; including the vibrant geothermal fields of Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, and the breathtaking beauty of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss – the Lava Waterfalls. It’s a gem of a destination for those keen on exploring an intriguing fusion of historical richness and splendid nature.
18, Borgarnes
Borgarnes is a tranquil coastal town located on a peninsula at the shore of Borgarfjordur in Iceland. Surrounded by impressive landscapes of mountains, rivers, and lava fields, it offers spectacular views, making it a desirable spot for nature enthusiasts. This picturesque town is renowned for its historical significance as it takes center stage in Egils saga, one of Iceland’s most famous sagas. Borgarnes is also home to the Settlement Centre, a key attraction that narrates the country’s ancient history and sagas. Visitors flock to the town's geothermal swimming pool, especially popular among families, and the Borg á Mýrum, an iconic church known for its unique architectural design. The Baulan diner and the Geirabakari Kaffihus, a pleasant bakery cafe, are also popular spots worth checking out in Borgarnes.
19, Eyrarbakki
Eyrarbakki, located on the south coast of Iceland, is a charming village steeped in historical significance and natural beauty. Renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century wooden houses, the village feels like stepping back in time, transporting visitors into an era of fishermen and Vikings. The village holds the oldest house in Iceland, built in 1765, which now serves as the regional folk museum displaying an impressive collection of artifacts. Eyrarbakki's stunning coastline presents travelers with the unfiltered beauty of the harsh North Atlantic, additionally, it's the gateway to the nearby magical phenomenon of the Northern Lights. The fusion of Arctic charm, historical depth, and striking landscapes makes Eyrarbakki truly unique.
20, Isafjordur
Located deep in the west fjords of Iceland, Isafjordur is an idyllic town steeped in rich history and embraced by mesmerizing natural beauty. Known for its heritage wooden buildings, imposing mountains, and a breathtaking fjord, the town is a brilliant blend of tradition and awe-inspiring landscapes. Isafjordur is especially popular for its annual music festival, Aldrei fór ég suður, which attracts a plethora of international and local musicians. This fairy-tale little town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing them with opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, and other adventure activities. Its unique heritage and fauna also make it an exciting destination for wildlife- and history-lovers. Whether you want to witness puffin colonies or explore the old maritime museum, Isafjordur offers a quaint, tranquil retreat unlike any other.
Frequently asked questions
What are the safest places in Iceland for solo female travelers?
