How To Explore Iceland On A Short Stopover (Yes, It’s Possible!)

With its surreal landscapes and one-of-a-kind geology, Iceland is one of those places you should see at least once. Add Viking history, a refreshingly tricky language, long winter nights and a surprisingly delicious food scene—and the Nordic island becomes even more enchanting. Sure, the subpolar weather can swing wildly—but that only adds to the drama of fjords, glaciers and the island’s irresistible lore.

Even a short stopover in Reykjavík (Icelandair offers a layover program for up to a week at no extra airfare cost) can feel like a proper getaway—here’s how to make the most of it. —Karen Kwan

Stay

Perched in the volcanic terrain near the Blue Lagoon, the Retreat Blue Lagoon feels like an oasis—a chic, modern hideaway built for decompressing. Book a suite with a soaker tub and volcanic views, and plan a day at the spa to try the Blue Lagoon Ritual—this moves you from the geothermal waters through cleansing and nourishing treatments, including rain showers and therapies using minerals and algae. If you can, pop back the next morning when the lagoon is quietest to soak in the warm, mineral-rich water and let all your stress float away.

See

Want fewer crowds and more scenery? Drive Iceland’s Silver Circle—a 146-kilometre loop through West Iceland that serves up mountain and glacier views with a local soundtrack. Meet Icelandic horses at Sturlureykir Horse Farm and taste rye bread slowly baked underground using geothermal heat. Step onto Langjökull Glacier, Iceland’s second-largest ice field, and take in its staggering scale (the shrinking edge is a sobering reminder of climate change). Waterfall chasers should not miss Hraunfossar—a short, easy walk from the parking lot rewards you with a dreamy series of falls emerging from lava rock.

Sweat

For a proper adrenaline fix, try a four-hour quad-bike tour with Safari Quads to Reykjavík Peak. Suit up, hit gravel roads and rocky trails, and earn summit views above the city—homes below looking like miniatures amid the lava fields. If you prefer something less physical but still thrilling, the Lava Show offers a mesmerizing, educational display of molten rock in a controlled showroom setting—a safely volcanic rush that’s as fun as it is informative.

Savour

Reykjavík’s food scene will surprise you. For a roadside classic, grab a pylsa at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur—an Icelandic hot dog made from lamb, beef and pork, piled with ketchup, mustard, mayo and both raw and crispy onions. Brave a shot of Brennivín at Íslenski Barinn and pair it with hákarl—fermented shark meat that’s an acquired taste. For elevated dining, Lava Restaurant at The Retreat Blue Lagoon is carved into an 800-year-old lava cliff—floor-to-ceiling windows frame the misty blue water while dishes like cod or succulent lamb highlight Iceland’s coastal and pastoral bounty. Downtown, Fröken Reykjavík Kitchen & Bar serves European-influenced plates with a cosmopolitan, art-deco vibe—try the lamb schnitzel. Tip—this is the place to give carbs a pass; the local breads—from dense rye loaves to buttery baguettes—are worth it.

Sip

Start your morning at Baka Baka, a cosy café in a historic black-timber building, and pair your coffee with a subtly sweet Icelandic cinnamon roll. For a nightcap, duck into Tipsy Bar & Lounge—a cocktail den with a speakeasy vibe. Order something playful—“Pikachu” mixes gin, Lillet Blanc and bright yuzu for a crisp, slightly bitter finish.

Get a taste of Iceland in Toronto

Can’t make it across the pond? Taste of Iceland lands in Toronto November 20–22, 2025, bringing Icelandic culture, design and cuisine to the city. Highlights include a prix-fixe Icelandic menu at The Dorset, concerts curated by Icelandic Airwaves at El Mocambo and a mini Lava Show at STACKT Market—perfect for whetting your appetite before you plan that next stopover.