Iceland Stopover on your way to New York

A stopover in Iceland on your way to or from New York might not be the first thing to cross your mind. However, it’s an extraordinary experience to go for peace and quiet in enchanting Iceland. Especially before or after New York’s hustle and bustle, and before getting back to your daily routine.

Why book an Iceland stopover?

Glaciers and geysers, mineral baths, vast empty plains and friendly people: it’s all waiting for you. Why would you add a few days to your trip to visit Iceland when travelling to New York? The answer is: why not? It’s very easy.

A ticket with a stopover won’t cost you more than a regular ticket to New York, but book on time though. If you have a UK passport, you don’t need a visa. In my opinion, a layover of two to three days is the perfect amount of time.

Accommodation in Reykjavik

For accommodation in Reykjavik, I recommend the low-key design hotel Reykjavik Lights. A sleek, bright and modern hotel, with that authentic Nordic feeling to it, further intensified by the art on the walls and the beautiful views from most of the rooms.

Another tip is the Kex Hostel. Don’t be alarmed by the word ‘hostel’, it has much more in common with a hotel than a youth hostel. It’s centrally located, it offers fine dinners, and you can book a private room. Furthermore, it’s stylishly decorated. The vintage atmosphere with its common room’s stone walls will remind you of New York.

Must-See Attractions in Iceland

For many people, a layover in Iceland will be the only time they’ll ever visit this country. Therefore, I would definitely take advantage of this opportunity and visit some famous Icelandic sights and wild nature. Are you in Iceland for a short while? I really recommend seeing two sights: the famous Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. Located in a lava field, this geothermal spa‘s waters are naturally warm and milky blue.

To visit the spa and see the highlights of Iceland, take a tour to the Golden Circle, Kerid Volcanic Crater and the Blue Lagoon on an 11-hour day trip. The final stop on the tour is at the Blue Lagoon. You can pay an extra fee separately and then soak and relax in the hot waters of the Blue Lagoon before returning to your hotel.

Book the Golden Circle, Kerid Volcanic Crater and the Blue Lagoon Day Trip here

Golden Circle

Another recommendation is the Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik. The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous tourist route. It’s about a 140-mile (230 km) loop from Reykjavik with beautiful nature and a UNESCO World Heritage site. On this tour, you’ll see the Iceland of travel guide tales: a pristine place on earth, with erupting geysers, ancient volcanoes and cascading waterfalls.

Book the Golden Circle Classic Day Trip here

Whale watching

Do you have some more time in Iceland? Then book a Whale-Watching Tour from Reykjavik. On the tour, you’ll sail alongside whales and dolphins for three and a half hours or two and a half hours by a speedboat.

To keep warm, they’ll provide you with a nice and comfy overall. The chances of meeting a whale are a whopping 90%. If you don’t have any luck, you can go on another tour later for free.

Book the Whale-Watching Tour in Iceland here

Seeing the Northern Lights

Are the Northern Lights at the top of your bucket list? Now’s your chance! Iceland is the perfect place to witness this exceptional natural phenomenon. It’s best to visit in winter, but remember it can be very cold. Don’t forget to pack your thermal underwear!

Want to increase your chances? Join the small-group Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik by Super Jeep. Your guide knows exactly where to best see the lights. Didn’t see any lights? Join another tour later for free.

Book the small-group Northern Lights Tour in Iceland here

What to Eat and Drink in Iceland

Iceland is the place to eat whale and lots of delicious, fresh fish. The lamb dishes are equally delicious, and they know how to make hot dogs. Wash it all down with a good ‘ole pint.

Icelanders love beer. They couldn’t get enough of it in the Viking era, but from 1915 onward, the golden goodness was forbidden. When the ban was finally revoked in 1989 (!), they decided to create a special ‘beer day’. Be prepared if you’re visiting the country on March 1st.

Prices in Iceland

Iceland is known for being expensive. In my opinion, it wasn’t too bad though. Dinner prices are quite reasonable at least, especially since you don’t have to tip: it’s already included in the bill. When you go shopping, you will spend a little more than you’re used to, but compared to New York, Reykjavik is not quite a shopping heaven.