Day 2: Exploring Reykjanes, Blue Lagoon, and Kerið Crater

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Next, about half an hour away, is the iconic Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most renowned tourist attractions. Known worldwide for its striking turquoise waters, it’s an amazing place to relax and unwind. Fun fact: the lagoon is actually filled with the mineral-rich runoff water from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant. If the entry price feels steep, you could save this experience for the more affordable Mývatn Nature Baths in North Iceland—or do what I did, taking the free walking path outside the lagoon to admire the blue waters up close, without taking a dip.

Today marks the beginning of your journey beyond cozy Reykjavik, as you make your way toward the Golden Circle. Before arriving, however, you’ll explore several stops on the Reykjanes Peninsula, offering a first glimpse into Iceland’s breathtaking variety of landscapes. One moment, you’re standing on vast black lava fields, and the next, the ground glows orange from intense geothermal activity.

The first stop is the Bridge Between Continents, a symbolic bridge spanning the rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Here, you’ll also find Iceland’s famous black sand. When I visited, heavy mist covered much of the lava fields, but even then, the contrast of the landscape was striking.

After hopping between continents, the adventure continues to Gunnuhver Hot Springs. Though smaller than geothermal fields you’ll see later in the trip, the sheer volume of steam rising here is unforgettable. With its orange-colored earth and bubbling activity, the site feels almost otherworldly.

The second-to-last stop of the day is the colorful Seltún Geothermal Area. Wooden boardwalks snake through steaming vents and mineral deposits, with shades of red, orange, yellow, and blue painting the ground. From higher up, you’ll get a fantastic overview of this vibrant geothermal site. A word of warning though—the sulfur smell here can be quite strong!

Before the final highlight, it’s a great time to stock up on groceries in Selfoss. During my Iceland road trip, my partner and I mostly stayed in rental cabins, which was budget-friendly compared to dining out.

The day’s last stop is the dramatic Kerið Crater. Although not officially part of the Golden Circle, it feels like it belongs on the list. This volcanic crater, about 6,500 years old, is made of rare red volcanic rock, making it one of Iceland’s three most distinctive craters. Measuring 55 meters deep, 170 meters wide, and 270 meters long, it can be explored both at the bottom—by descending the staircase—and from above, circling the rim. Both perspectives are highly recommended!

After such a full day of exploration, it’s time to head to your accommodation.