Vik is a popular tourist town in southern Iceland, located about 3 hours East of the Keflavik Airport. Its proximity to some of the most famous sites in Iceland and incredible excursions make it a perfect place to base yourself for a couple of days during your Iceland road trip.

Vik caters to tourists so there is plenty to do in the area to keep you busy. There are many lovely hotels in and near Vik town, ranging from backpacker hostels to luxurious cottages.

Here are the best activities and things to do in Vik, Iceland.

Visit Reynisfjara Beach

Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland’s most famous black sand beach, is renowned for its volcanic sand, towering basalt columns, and notorious “sneaker waves.” It’s not only one of the country’s most stunning beaches and has been named one of the most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world, but it has also made appearances in Hollywood films and TV shows like Game of Thrones and Star Wars.

Like many locations in Iceland, Icelandic folklore surrounds Reynisfjara Beach. According to legend, the rock formations that jut out of the water just off the shore of Reynisfjara, known as Reynisdrangar, used to be giant trolls that would pull ships to the shore of the beach. One night, the trolls stayed out too late and as the sun began to rise, they turned to stone, where they can still be seen from the shore to this day.

One element that makes Reynisfjara Beach especially unique is its basalt columns that back the shoreline. The basalt columns were created by magma that slowly cooled and cracked into the shape of these columns. When the tide is low, you can carefully climb up some of the basalt columns, making for the perfect photo opp.

While the beauty of Reynisfjara is undeniable, it’s also important to note that it can be dangerous. The powerful sneaker waves crash onto the shore suddenly and unexpectedly, catching many tourists off guard. It’s easy to become mesmerized by the scenery and wander too close to the water, unaware that a strong wave could appear out of nowhere and pull you into the sea. Incidents involving sneaker waves have occurred, with around five fatalities reported in the past decade, so it’s crucial to take precautions. Staying a safe distance from the water is the best way to enjoy this breathtaking beach without putting yourself at risk.

Explore Dyrhólaey Nature Preserve

Dyrhólaey is a nature preserve located on a peninsula just a 15-minute drive from Vik town. After driving up a steep but well-maintained road, you will arrive at Dyrhólaey, which offers some of the best views in the area. One of the most iconic attractions at Dyrhólaey is the Dyrhólaey Arch, which is a natural arch that was formed as a result of erosion over the centuries. Another popular spot along the peninsula is the Dyrhólaey Viewpoint, which overlooks Dyrhólaey’s “Endless Black Beach”, offering a striking split-view of the ocean water meeting the coastline. Another point of interest along the peninsula is Dyrhólaeyjarviti Lighthouse, which dates back to 1919 and to this day sheds beams of light along the water to guide trade ships and fishing boats.

If you will be visiting Iceland from May to September, there’s a potential to spot puffins at Dyrhólaey. It’s known to be one of the most reliable places to see these adorable birds on mainland Iceland, so keep your eyes peeled and make sure to pack your binoculars so you can get a great view of them! If you are not in Vik during puffin season, there is also the potential to see Eider Ducks, who reside here year-long.

Hike Behind Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

One of the best things to do in Vik is visit some of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most popular waterfalls, and for good reason. The trail behind the waterfall lets you walk directly under the cascading water, offering a unique 360 point of view. Just be prepared to get wet! The mist from the waterfall continuously sprays along the pathway, so a poncho or rain jacket is a must if you want to stay dry. As a result, the pathway can be slippery so be careful and watch your step, especially along the more rocky part of the path.

If you continue along the trail to the left, you’ll discover Gljúfrabúi Waterfall, a hidden gem tucked inside a small canyon. To reach it, you’ll need to cross a shallow river, so waterproof boots are essential because the water is freezing! Watch your step on the slippery rocks, and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking, almost magical waterfall within the canyon’s walls.

Visit Skógafoss Waterfall

Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, and it’s just a short drive from Seljalandsfoss. On a sunny day, you might catch a stunning rainbow forming in the mist of the nearly 200-foot tall waterfall, creating a picture-perfect scene that’s straight out of a postcard.

For hike enthusiasts, you can hike part of the Fimmvörðuháls trail that takes you above the water and up the river, offering beautiful views of the rushing water and multiple smaller waterfalls along the way. If you are a more serious hiker, you can choose to do the complete Fimmvörðuháls Pass Trail, which is a 14-mile trail that takes you along the river above the falls, ending in Þórsmörk Valley in the Icelandic highlands. For a quicker option, you can also climb the 427 stairs to the top of Skógafoss for some breathtaking close-up views of the waterfall.

And of course, with such a magnificent waterfall comes Icelandic Folklore. Legend has it an early Viking settler hid a treasure chest filled with gold riches in a cave behind Skógafoss. 700 years later, Icelandic people discovered the chest and tried to pull it out by its attached ring – however, the ring broke off as treasure hunters were trying to drag the chest out, and the treasure fell beneath the waterfall. You can see the alleged ring in the nearby Skógar museum today, though there is speculation that it is actually from the Viking treasure chest.

Visit the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

Along a remote black sand beach near Vik, you will find the 1973 Solheimasandur Plane Wreck. The Navy DC plane crashed here after running out of fuel, and thankfully, everyone who was on board survived the wreck.

Today, the remains of the plane have become somewhat of a tourist hot spot, attracting photographers and curious travelers to the site. To access the wreckage, you can park at the Parking for Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck lot and walk an hour each way to the wreckage. There is also a seasonal shuttle that takes you directly to the wreck from the parking lot, costing 3200 Krona round trip per person (roughly 23 USD). Alternatively, you can access the wreck via an ATV tour, which ultimately takes you to the plane wreckage. 

Once you arrive at the wreck you might notice other tourists climbing on top of the plane to take photos. Don’t do this – the metal has deteriorated over the years and there is potential for it to collapse under you. I’m honestly shocked this hasn’t happened yet, and I imagine it is only a matter of time before this happens to someone.

Take in the Views at Vík i Myrdal Church

At the top of a hill in Vik, you will find a cute little church called  Vík i Myrdal Church. While the church’s interior is simple, it’s definitely worth driving up here to take in the amazing panoramic views of Vik. Afterward, you can go up a little higher to the Vik Cemetery for a slightly higher-up view of the church and surrounding scenery.

Best Excursions and Activities to do in Vik

Vik is the adventure capital of Iceland, And some of the best things to do in Vik are the incredible excursions and activities you can do in the area. I highly suggest signing up for any of the following activities that interest you the most, as I can promise you will have an incredible experience that is completely unique to Iceland.

Go on a Guided Glacier Hike

Glacier hikes are one of the most popular year-round activities in Iceland. Near Vik, there are two glaciers – Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and Sólheimajökull Glacier. I personally did the 3-hour Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull by Arctic Adventures, and absolutely loved it! This is absolutely one of the best things to do in Vik and should be at the top of your Iceland Bucket List.

The guided hike starts at the base of Sólheimajökull Glacier, where you will put on your crampons and safety gear as your guide provides you with safety instructions and facts about the glacier. You’ll then start the trek up the glacier, ending at the top with incredible panoramic views of the Sólheimajökull Glacier Lake and surrounding coastal views.

During this hike, you may get the opportunity to explore a small ice cave if one is present at the time of your guided hike. We got lucky and got the chance to climb down into one of these caves, and it was a really cool experience. We did this hike in September, which is generally too early for ice cave season, so this was a fun way to experience Iceland’s famous ice caves on a smaller level.

Take an ATV Tour of a Black Sand Beach & Remote Icelandic Landscapes

For thrill-seekers, you can book an ATV Adventure Tour (fix this link) that will take you over black sand dunes, and stunning remote landscapes, leading to Iceland’s famous plane wreck, the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck.

You can either opt to drive solo or with another person, depending on your comfort level. The ride can get quite bumpy as you breeze through rocky off-roads, so keep this in mind when booking this excursion. We had a blast driving over black sand dunes, through picturesque valleys, and along the black sand beach. My partner and I opted to drive separately, however, next time I think I’ll choose to play Passenger Princess as I was nervous to go very fast over the bumps.

Go Ziplining Through Vik’s Incredible Landscapes

Zipline excursions are always a popular activity in destinations that cater to adventure lovers and adrenaline seekers. Vik has one of the best ziplining experiences in Iceland with Zipline Iceland, where you’ll soar through the air over waterfalls, glaciers, and rivers. This 1.5-hour tour includes transport, 4 ziplines, and hiking through a river canyon. It’s one of the top-rated activities in Vik and is a must for any adventurous soul.

Kayak Through a Glacier Lagoon

Near Vik, you can go on a Kayaking Tour of the Sólheimajökull Glacier Lagoon, where you’ll kayak on the lagoon as you pass by icebergs and take in the views of the Sólheimajökull Glacier from a unique perspective. No kayaking experience is required, and dry suits are included to keep you warm and dry.

Go Snowmobiling on Top of a Glacier

If you’re looking for an exciting winter activity to do in Vik, look no further than the Snowmobiling Experience on Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. You’ll get the opportunity to glide at the top of a glacier while taking in the incredible surrounding views. No experience is required.

Museums to Visit in Vik

Vik has a few wonderful museums and exhibits you can visit. These are perfect for a rainy day activity, or for those who are interested in learning more about the history and science of Iceland.

Skógar Museum

The Skógar  Museum is an Icelandic heritage museum and is one of the most famous museums in the country. It houses over 15,000 Icelandic artifacts in its folk museum and also has an open-air exhibit showcasing what life was like for Icelandic people over various periods of time. If you are interested in learning more about Iceland’s history or you’d like to take a glimpse into reconstructed period buildings, the Skógar Museum is a must-visit when in Vik.

The Caves of Hella

The Caves of Hella is the oldest archeological site in Iceland. On a Guided Tour of the Hella Caves, you will be allowed access to 5 historical cave settlements that may date back to the earliest settlements of Iceland. These caves were man-made and carved into rock, and mystery surrounds them as historians are not completely sure of the purpose of these caves. You’ll see ancient carvings in the rock walls inside, including a cross, which brings the idea that the caves were once inhabited by Celtic monks.

If you are fascinated by mysterious history and legends, I highly recommend booking a tour of the Hella Caves! You are only able to access the Hella Caves via a small group tour, which occurs four times per day.

The Vik Lava Show

The Vik Lava Show is an exhibit that offers you the experience to see molten lava up close. An employee will teach you everything you’d ever need to know about lava, as you watch it pour down the enclosed area right in front of you. You even will get the chance to touch cooling lava at the end of the show! If lava fascinates you or you are looking for a fun rainy day activity in Vik, definitely check out the Vik Lava Show.

Conclusion

Vik is one of the top destinations in Iceland, as there are so many incredible things to do in the area. Whether you want to explore some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders, partake in a thrilling excursion, learn about Iceland’s history, or embark on an ambitious hike, there are countless things to do in Vik that will leave memories lasting a lifetime.

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