FlyBus and Airport Direct shuttles meet every arriving flight and drop off at major hotels. If you rent a car, photograph all scratches before driving off and bookmark road.is for real-time closures; weather shifts quickly even in spring.
Day 1: Reykjavík
Start at Hallgrímskirkja, then walk down Skólavörðustígur for coffee at Reykjavik Roasters. Harpa Concert Hall offers free restroom access and sheltered seating if winds pick up. Book Sky Lagoon or the classic Blue Lagoon for late afternoon; both require advance reservations and provide towels.
Day 2: Golden Circle
- Þingvellir National Park—walk the Almannagjá fissure and visit the Oxarárfoss waterfall; parking requires a license plate payment at kiosks.
- Geysir geothermal area—stay behind the rope line and hold your camera horizontally to avoid steam damage.
- Gullfoss waterfall—carry microspikes in winter; spray freezes on the steps.
- Kerið crater—small entrance fee, but the red volcanic rock contrasts nicely against turquoise water.
For northern lights, monitor the aurora forecast on vedur.is. Escape city lights by driving 20 minutes to Grótta Island Lighthouse; bring a tripod and keep headlights off near other photographers.