Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Iceland (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See trip is a crucial step when considering a move to Iceland. This exploratory journey allows you to experience the country's unique culture, climate, and communities firsthand, helping you make an informed decision about where to live. By visiting different cities and towns, you can gauge the cost of living, meet locals, and determine which area best suits your lifestyle and needs.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in Reykjavik, then explore the South Coast, including towns like Hveragerdi and Vik, before heading to Akureyri in the north. For a 20-day trip, include the Westfjords and Eastfjords regions, visiting towns such as Isafjordur and Egilsstadir. These itineraries provide a comprehensive overview of Iceland's diverse landscapes and communities.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, is home to approximately 130,000 people. It offers a vibrant cultural scene, numerous job opportunities, and a surprisingly affordable compared to other major European cities. Expats and digital nomads appreciate the city's creativity, safety, and proximity to nature. Reykjavik is an excellent base for exploring the rest of the country, with easy access to both the countryside and international travel.

Travel Tip: Visit the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church for a panoramic view of the city, and don't miss out on trying the famous hot dogs at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur.

Hveragerdi

Located about 45 km east of Reykjavik, Hveragerdi is a small town known for its geothermal activity. With around 2,500 residents, it offers a tight-knit community and a lower cost of living than the capital. The town's greenhouses provide fresh produce year-round, and the surrounding nature offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Hveragerdi is ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle while still being close to Reykjavik.

Travel Tip: Relax in the naturally heated river at Reykjadalur, and enjoy a meal at the cozy Kjöt og Kúnst restaurant.

Vik

Vik, the southernmost village in Iceland, is home to approximately 300 people. It features stunning black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs, making it a popular tourist destination. Despite its small size, Vik offers a range of services and a close community. The cost of living is generally lower than in larger cities, and the town's proximity to various natural attractions is a significant draw for expats and digital nomads.

Travel Tip: Visit the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach and dine at the Strondin Bistro & Bar for local cuisine.

Akureyri

Akureyri, often referred to as the capital of the north, is Iceland's second-largest city, with around 19,000 residents. It offers a vibrant cultural scene, a variety of job opportunities, and a lower cost of living than Reykjavik. Akureyri is an excellent choice for those who prefer a more relaxed pace of life while still enjoying the amenities of a city. The surrounding area boasts stunning landscapes and easy access to outdoor activities.

Travel Tip: Explore the beautiful Akureyri Botanical Garden and enjoy a meal at the Strikið restaurant.

Westfjords Region

The Westfjords region is one of the most remote and sparsely populated areas in Iceland, with a unique landscape of deep fjords and towering cliffs. Towns like Isafjordur, Bolungarvik, and Patreksfjordur offer a quiet, close-knit community and a low cost of living. This region is ideal for those seeking a more isolated and self-sufficient lifestyle, with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.

Travel Tip: Visit the Dynjandi waterfall and enjoy a meal at the Tjöruhúsið restaurant in Isafjordur.

Eastfjords Region

The Eastfjords region is known for its dramatic coastline, picturesque fishing villages, and diverse wildlife. Towns such as Egilsstadir, Seydisfjordur, and Neskaupstadur offer a range of services and a lower cost of living compared to larger cities. This region is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between nature and community, with numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural events.

Travel Tip: Explore the Stórurð trail and its stunning basalt columns, and visit the Kaupfélagskaffi café in Egilsstadir.