13 Incredible Things To Do In Vik, Iceland
Vík is one of the most beautiful places to see in Southern Iceland. If you’re planning a trip to this area, here are 13 of the absolute best things to do in Vik, Iceland.
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Iceland is a land of volcanoes, glaciers, black sand beaches, and waterfalls galore. And while the country as a whole is definitely worth exploring, there’s one particular spot that should definitely be on your list: Vik.
Situated on the country’s southern coast, Vik is home to some of Iceland’s most breathtaking scenery. And whether you’re looking to hike to a glacial lake or relax in a soothing hot spring, Vik has something for everyone!
So if you’re planning a trip to the south of Iceland, be sure to add these 13 things to your Vik itinerary.
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Where Is Vik Iceland?
Vik, Iceland is located on the Southern Coast of Iceland. It is a small town with a population of about 680 people.
You can reach Vik from Reykjavik in about 2.5 hours. It’s located along the Ring Road, which is the most popular driving route in Iceland.
Is Vik Iceland Worth Visiting?
Vik is a picturesque town in Iceland that is absolutely worth visiting! The town itself is pretty small, but the surrounding area is so stunning.
The black sand beaches, dramatic glaciers, and lush green cliffs provide endless opportunities for adventures near Vík í Myrdal.
I highly recommend spending at least one night in the area so that you can fully appreciate everything Vik has to offer.
Things To Do In Vik Iceland
1. Visit Vik i Myrdal Church
Vik i Myrdal Church is a stunning little white church perched on top of a hill in Vik.
This church dates back to 1873, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vik. The church is open to the public, and you can go inside to see the beautiful interior.
Amazingly, this place was the only building in Vik that survived the 1918 flood, which was caused by a volcanic eruption. This church still holds evacuation drills for the locals today, just in case of another eruption!
The church offers stunning views of the surrounding area, and it is definitely worth a visit to get a great view of Vik from the top. For the best view, head to the cemetery behind the church.
2. Spot Puffins At Dyrhólaey Lighthouse
This majestic castle-like lighthouse is located on the edge of a cliff at the southernmost point of Iceland. The views from here are simply stunning, and you can see all the way to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on a clear day.
The Dyrhólaey Lighthouse was built in 1927 and is still fully operational today. It is open to the public, and you can go inside to see the single white light that flashes every 10 seconds.
From here, you can also spot some puffins! These adorable little birds come to Iceland to mate and nest from May to August. So, if you visit during the summertime, keep your eyes peeled for these cuties.
3. Check Out The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
This beach is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vik, and its no surprise why! The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is absolutely stunning.
The black sand contrasts beautifully with the white foam of the waves crashing against the shore. It is a really magical place.
There are also some cool rock formations here, called sea stacks. These are columns of basalt that have been eroded over time by the wind and waves.
The most famous sea stack is called Reynisdrangar, and it is said to be two trolls who were turned to stone when they tried to pull a ship into shore.
The beach can be dangerous though, so make sure to stay away from the water if you’re not a strong swimmer, and take extra caution on the slippery rocks.
4. Explore The Abandoned Plane (Solheimafjara)
For adrenaline junkies visiting Vik, the abandoned plane on the beach is a must-see.
This United States Navy DC wreckage has been here since 1973 when it ran out of fuel and crash-landed on the black sand in Sólheimasandur, in the South Coast of Iceland.
Luckily, everyone involved in the plane crash survived, and today this site is one of the most popular tourist attractions near Vik.
The plane is located in Sólheimasandur, which is located right along a 4×4 only road. You can park your car at the parking lot (be sure to pay the fee), and then it’s about a 45-minute walk to the plane.
It’s a bit of a trek, but it’s definitely worth it to see this amazing piece of history.
5. Go Horseback Riding
Iceland is famous for its horseback riding, and Vik is the perfect place to go for a ride. There are many companies that offer tours, and you can even go for a ride on the beach!
Horseback riding is a great way to explore the Icelandic landscape. The horses are sure-footed and used to the rugged terrain, so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
Just be sure to dress warmly, as it can get cold on the back of the horse!
6. Go Paragliding
For adventure seekers looking for a thrill, paragliding is the perfect activity. If you think the Icelandic landscape is beautiful from the ground, just wait until you see it from the air!
Paragliding is a great way to see the sights of Vik from a whole new perspective. You’ll be strapped into a harness with a professional instructor, and you can relax and enjoy the ride while they do all the work.
There are many companies that offer paragliding tours in Vik, and they will provide you with all the gear you need – All you need to do is show up and enjoy the ride!
One of the most popular companies that offers paragliding tours is True Adventure. They offer a tandem paragliding flight starting at about 35,000 ISK ($261 USD) per person.
7. Grab A Cup Of Coffee At Skool Beans Cafe
After a day filled with adventures, you’re going to need a pick-me-up. Skool Beans Cafe is the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee and relax.
This cozy little cafe is actually located inside of an old refurbished school bus, and it’s the perfect place to warm up on a cold day.
They offer a variety of coffee drinks, as well as tea, hot chocolate, and pastries. Step inside the bus and take a seat at one of the tables – you’ll feel like you’re on a field trip to a far-off land!
Whether you need a quick caffeine fix or you’re looking for a place to relax and take a break from sightseeing, Skool Beans Cafe is the perfect spot.
8. Take A Dip In The Vik Swimming Pool
This outdoor swimming pool is the perfect place to take a dip, no matter what time of year it is. The water at the Vik Swimming Pool is heated, so you can enjoy a swim even when it’s cold outside.
There are even two hot tubs and a sauna for you to relax in after your swim.
The pool is located right in the center of Vik, and it’s surrounded by beautiful mountains. It’s also right next to a playground and a few restaurants, so you can make a day of it.
It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning Icelandic landscape!
Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot day or you want to take a dip in the middle of a snowstorm, the Vik swimming pool is the perfect place to go.
It’s open Monday-Saturday from 11am to 8pm, and 12pm to 6pm on Sundays.
9. Explore An Ice Cave
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland in winter, you absolutely need to add an ice cave tour to your itinerary. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk through a glacier
While there are many ice caves to choose from, the Katla ice cave is one of the most popular near Vik. The Katla Ice Cave is located in the Kötlujökull Glacier, the fourth largest glacier in Iceland.
While most ice caving tours are only available in winter, this cave can be enjoyed year-round.
Guides will pick you up in a jeep from Vik and drive you 45 minutes through the black sand plains around the Katla volcano.
Once you reach the glacier, your guide will equip you with crampons and helmets with headlights. From the entrance, it’s only a short hike to the ice cave.
You’ll then get the opportunity to hike through the Katla ice cave and learn about the history and geography of the area from your guide. It’s an incredible experience that should definitely not be skipped when visiting Vik!
10. Take A Day Trip To Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland. It’s located in the southeastern part of the country, and it’s about a 4-hour drive from Vik.
This lagoon is filled with icebergs that have broken off of the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. It’s a truly stunning sight, and it’s definitely worth the drive. There are even boat tours that will take you right up close to the icebergs.
If you’re looking for a day trip from Vik, Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is the perfect place to go!
11. Shop For Wool At Icewear
Icewear is a company that specializes in woolen clothing, and their store is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or two. They have a wide variety of Icelandic wool sweaters, hats, and scarves to choose from.
Icewear is the perfect place to pick up a warm sweater or hat to take home with you. Not only do they have a store in Vik but they also have several other locations in Iceland, so you’re sure to find one that’s convenient for you.
12. Visit Beautiful Waterfalls
Iceland is home to many beautiful waterfalls, and Kvernufoss and Skogafoss are two of the best. Both are located within a short drive of Vik, so you can easily visit both in one day.
Kvernufoss is a small but beautiful waterfall that’s hidden away in the Icelandic countryside. To get there, you’ll have to take a short hike through a valley. It’s the perfect place to explore if you’re looking to get off the beaten path.
Skogafoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland. It’s located on the Skoga River, and it’s about a 30-minute drive from Vik. The waterfall is about 60 meters (200 feet) tall, and it’s absolutely breathtaking.
There are also several hiking trails that lead up to the top of the waterfall, so you can get a birds-eye view of the falls.
Whether you’re looking for a hidden gem or a popular tourist spot, Vik has plenty of waterfalls for you to explore!
13. Watch The Icelandic Lava Show
For a truly unique experience, be sure to check out the Icelandic Lava Show. This is a show that takes place in a lava field, and it tells the story of Iceland’s Volcanic eruptions.
The show takes place on a path made of lava rocks, and includes a complete sensory experience that brings the lava field to life – you’ll be able to hear, smell, and feel the heat of the lava rocks.
It’s a truly unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!
The Icelandic Lava Show is located about a 30-minute drive from Vik, and it’s open all year round. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door, and they start at around $45 USD per person.
Where To Stay In Vik, Iceland
For a luxury hotel experience, we recommend the Hotel Kría. This hotel is located right on the water, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs.
The rooms are spacious and modern, and they come complete with all of the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, check out the Puffin Hostel. This hostel is located in the center of Vik, and it’s just a short walk from the beach.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, and they offer everything you need for a relaxing stay.
No matter what your budget is, Vik has plenty of accommodation options to choose from!
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