The Ultimate Adventure Guide to an Iceland Honeymoon

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An Iceland honeymoon in the Land of Ice and Fire is one of the best honeymoon destinations for couples looking to spend their time hiking glaciers and exploring natural wonders. Iceland offers an array of daytime and evening activities, whether it's marveling at the northern lights or taking a misty morning dip in The Blue Lagoon.

With its dramatic landscapes featuring volcanoes, geysers, natural hot springs and lava fields, you'll likely want to explore the entire country—and you can. As long as you have at least 10 days allotted for your post-wedding escape, Iceland is the perfect road trip honeymoon destination.

When it comes to planning your Iceland honeymoon, let us be your guide. From the best months to visit to the most epic things to do, use our expert tips to plan your adventurous honeymoon in Iceland.

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Iceland Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

• Best Time to Honeymoon in Iceland
• Iceland Honeymoon Planning Tips
• Best Iceland Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts
• Iceland Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
• What to Pack for an Iceland Honeymoon

Photo: Matteo Colombo | Getty

Best Time to Honeymoon in Iceland

Iceland is a beautiful place to visit all year round. While many travelers may choose to stay away during the winter because they are chilly and fairly sunless, winter is the best time to visit ice caves or spot the aurora borealis, better known as the northern lights, and check that off your bucket list. Summer is the country's high season due to its mild weather, long sunny days and midnight sun, so it is usually the best season to go for first-time visitors.

Best weather: June to August.
Festival highlights: The Secret Solstice in June celebrates the midnight sun with music and cultural events in Reykjavik. For those visiting in winter, the Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival in February illuminates the dark days with beautiful light installations and events that celebrate both the winter world and the growing light after a long darkness. The Food and Fun Festival in March mixes great cuisine with fun, attracting chefs worldwide to compete in creating dishes with local ingredients.

Iceland Honeymoon Planning Tips

Iceland is fairly close to the mainland US, so you won't have to worry about spending days on an airplane before you arrive. It is also one of the most beautiful countries in the world, rich with natural beauty and culture, and perfect for anyone who wants to see waterfalls, volcanoes and other breathtaking sights.

Iceland is also the perfect layover stop for couples going on a multi-destination honeymoon in Europe. Consider stopping here for a few days before heading to your next destination.

It's cold in Iceland, meaning couples should be prepared for chilly temperatures while honeymoon planning, even in the summer. The island is also known for its quickly changing weather, so beware of sudden storms or wild winds. If you need the firm range between day and night, Iceland in the summer means endless sun and in the winter, daylight can be as short as four hours long.

Entry requirements: A US passport that is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area. As of 2025, US citizens need to have an ETIAS for Iceland, which you can get online.
Language: Icelandic, but English is widely spoken.
Location: Iceland is an island nation in the North Atlantic Ocean, located between Europe and North America.
Currency: The Icelandic króna (ISK).
Flight time to Destination: Direct flights from major U.S. cities like New York and Boston to Reykjavik take approximately 5 to 6 hours.
Getting around: Renting a car or van is highly recommended for honeymooners looking to explore the country at their own pace. Iceland's Route 1, or Ring Road, encircles the island, providing access to many of the country's most famous natural sights.

Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace for Iceland honeymoon expertise, reviews, testimonials and more.

Best Iceland Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts

Iceland offers a variety of honeymoon accommodations, from private cabins to eco hotels with panoramic views of the rugged landscape. Here are some of our top picks.

Photo: Amanda Miller | Getty

Silica Hotel

Located right on the Blue Lagoon, the Silica Hotel has it all: stunning views, a calming atmosphere and romantic ambiance perfect for newlyweds. Grab the Retreat Spa package and spend a luxurious five hours at the rejuvenating spa, or enjoy award-winning cuisine when you sign up for their Culinary Adventure.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

The Retreat Hotel

The nearby Retreat Hotel, also stationed at the Blue Lagoon, is ideal for couples who want to experience a romantic getaway in a minimalist setting. Its suites are furnished with modern designs and local textures.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina

Situated in downtown Reykjavik, the modern and unique Icelandair Hotel is characterized by its creative atmosphere and fun design. It's the perfect place to stay while exploring the streets of the capital city. The completely renovated building is a certified green hotel featuring 154 suites and family rooms right in the middle of the city's lively culture.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Hotel Rangá

A four-star resort located in southern Iceland that maximizes adventure, the Hotel Rangá is reputable for its untainted view of the northern lights, outdoor hot tubs, Scandinavian design and remote luxury.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pro tip: For even more Icelandic honeymoon accommodations, consider staying in a romantic Airbnb or VRBO. These properties can often provide lower prices, more privacy and unique stays.

Iceland Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

Iceland is known for its rugged and natural landscape. Outdoorsy couples who are truly interested in getting a feel for the beautiful country may want to visit multiple different cities. Rent a car and turn your vacation into a road trip so you can be sure to see it all. While there are plenty of things to do, here are the must-sees to add to your itinerary.

Photo: Martin Korsawe | Getty

See the Northern Lights in Reykjavik

Stationed in south Iceland, the capital city of Reykjavik is a must-see for any first time visitors. Couples can spend days enjoying whale watching, walking the streets of the town, and experiencing the exciting nightlife. You can also take a Northern Lights tour and spot the natural wonder from downtown Reykjavik. Plus, the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is just a 50-minute drive away and perfect for a day trip or overnight stay.

Discover Waterfalls in Akureyri

The northern city of Akureyri is home to the Dettifoss waterfall, Godafoss waterfall and the nearby Laufás turf homes, which are an example of some traditional Icelandic housing. Here, you can also go on a horse riding tour, see the Arctic botanical gardens or visit the Christmas house if you've decided to come during the winter. Spend the day at the Mývatn nature baths, but don't forget to take pictures of all the gorgeous waterfalls you see along the way.

Go Horseback Riding in Grindavik

Just a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik and 10 minutes from The Blue Lagoon, Grindavik is the perfect home base to stay in while you take exciting day trips across the south coast. Spend some time at the Gunnuhver Hot Springs or see the Fagradalsfjall active volcano. Grindavik is also a great place to spot some Icelandic horses and potentially go for a ride. Drive a few hours east along the south coast and you'll come across the small fishing village of Vík í Mýrdal which is home to the nearby black sand beaches of Reynisfjara. Head a bit farther east, and you'll find yourself taking in the views of the lava fields in Eldhraun.

Visit Natural Hot Springs

While there is a ton of wide-open space in Iceland, you'll find a major surplus of these four things: Sheep, waterfalls, birds and natural hot springs. From Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir, you'll come across dozens of amazing hot springs and baths. Aside from the Blue Lagoon, try to visit Myvatn Nature Baths near Akureyri or Vök Baths in Vök.

Hang Out with Adorable Puffins

Take a tour to spot puffins during the summer months. You can find them tucked in along rocky cliff-sides and around the some 109 fjords you'll see as you drive along the coast.

Explore Iceland's Parks

Head along the popular Golden Circle sightseeing route to capture the beauty of Thingvellir National Park, Geyser Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall. Make sure you also take a trip to the west of the island to see the breathtaking Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Pro tip: Add Iceland honeymoon experiences to your gift registry if you'd like loved ones to pitch in on fun activities, rather than material gifts. Going this route is perfect for couples who already live together and have all they need.

What to Pack for an Iceland Honeymoon

Photo: Marco Bottigelli | Getty

Before you hop on the plane, have all your gear packed and ready to go. Due to Iceland's rainy and windy weather, it's best to pack waterproof shoes and outerwear in your honeymoon luggage.

For those interested in heavy-duty hiking and sightseeing, your packing checklist should also include comfortable boots and light layers you can easily remove if the temperature warms up. Pack something warm and cozy in case you start to feel the cold settle into your bones.

Brittany Barber contributed to this article.