Things to Do in Vik, Iceland: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to Vik, Iceland! This quaint town on Iceland’s southern coast was one of my favorite stops during our road trip. With plenty of cozy accommodations and exciting activities nearby, Vik is perfect for a 2-4 day stay in South Iceland. I hope you enjoy Vik as much as I did and these things to do in Vik Iceland guide is helpful in your travel planning.

Located along the coast near the majestic Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Vik boasts a stunning variety of landscapes and natural beauty. Surprisingly, this budding tourist destination has a village population of only about 300 residents, adding to its charm and uniqueness.

During my two-night stay, I fell in love with Vik’s charm and beauty. Whether you’re exploring black sand beaches, embarking on an ice cave tour, or simply soaking in the picturesque views, there’s so much to enjoy. That’s why I’ve put together this complete guide to the best things to do in Vik, Iceland, so you don’t miss a thing on your trip.

Happy travels to Iceland!

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Where to stay

Vik has a variety of budget hostels to higher end hotel options in the surrounding areas to choose from. Personally, I stayed at the Black Beach Suites in Vik and I cannot say enough good things about my experience.

The Black Beach Suites are a great hotel located right down the road from (you guessed it) the Black Beach. With incredible views and a full kitchen, you’ll love the set up. 

My top hotel picks

The Barn $ | A modern hostel with private room options available. Don’t let the term “hostel” deter you—The Barn has earned rave reviews for its cleanliness, cozy ambiance, and variety of room options.

Black Beach Suites $$ | Beautiful, condo-style accommodations featuring studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with all the amenities you need. The suites also boast a fantastic happy hour and stunning views of (you guessed it!) the Black Beach.

Skammidalur Cottages $$ | Located just over three miles from downtown Vik, these charming studio cottages feature minimalist Scandinavian design and all the essentials for a comfortable stay.

Farmhouse Lodge $$ | Although a bit farther from Vik, this cozy lodge offers great rates and is ideal for travelers planning to explore the area’s outdoor attractions extensively.

Travel Tip! Looking to save money on accommodations in Iceland? Always book refundable rates and check for price drops as your trip approaches. I used this strategy during my Iceland trip and managed to save over $500 on hotels!

Getting around Iceland

Public transportation in Iceland is limited, and hiring a driver is not only expensive but also unnecessary for most travelers.

The best way to explore Iceland is by renting an AWD SUV. This type of vehicle provides the freedom to travel at your own pace and access remote areas that smaller cars may struggle with. While opting for a compact car can save you money, upgrading to an SUV is well worth the extra cost. It ensures comfort on Iceland’s varying road conditions and allows you to safely reach more rugged hiking trails without risking damage to your rental car.

Worried about driving in Iceland? Don’t be. The roads are generally safe and easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors. The biggest challenges are weather-related closures, as winter conditions can occur at any time of year. To avoid disruptions, check the weather and wind forecasts each evening and morning. Make sure to use Iceland’s Iceland’s road closure website to stay informed and plan your route accordingly.

>> Get all my insider tips to saving money on rental cars!

Top things to do in Vik, Iceland

Visit the charming Katla Wool Shop

For an authentic Icelandic experience, head to the Katla Wool Shop in Vik. Located in a cozy basement, you’ll pass by the owner’s loom and studio before entering the shop, where you can find handmade blankets, hats, scarves, sweaters, and more.

Icelandic sheep have been producing wool since the time of the Norse settlers, and their unique coats make for lightweight, durable, and incredibly warm fabrics perfect for Iceland’s weather.

Enjoy the views at the Black Beach

Reynisfjara Black Beach, just outside of Vik, offers dramatic views and plenty of photo opportunities. With its cliffside caves and striking basalt columns—Reynisdrangar—jutting from the water, this is one of the most photographed spots in Iceland. Fun fact: parts of Game of Thrones were filmed here, including the Eastwatch-by-the-sea set.

Travel Tip! Come right before sunset for the most amazing photos and less crowds! You'll have portions of the beach all to yourself. 

Grab a coffee at Skool Beans

Skool Beans is a converted school bus turned cozy coffee shop, perfect for warming up with one of their unique coffee creations. The ambiance is one of the highlights, and don’t forget to pick up a souvenir before you leave. Their collection of stickers and mugs is affordable and a great way to remember your Icelandic adventure.

Take a dip in the local swimming pools (like the locals do)

Icelanders love to visit local swimming pools, especially in the evening. Vik’s community pool, which costs under $10, features thermal pools and a sauna. Many locals bring their pajamas to change into afterward! Given the high cost of many Icelandic activities, this is a great budget-friendly option—and you’ll likely receive plenty of local tips for the rest of your journey.

>> Like this idea? Check out my guide to saving money in Iceland for more ways to save!

Enjoy the seasonal puffins at Dyholaey Lighthouse

If you’re in Iceland from May to mid-August, don’t miss the chance to see puffins at Dyholaey Lighthouse, just outside of Vik. It’s the closest spot to Reykjavik for puffin watching!

With a 4×4, you can drive directly to the lighthouse, but if you’re in a smaller vehicle, there’s a small parking lot from where you can hike about 1.2 miles roundtrip. The weather can be windy, so dress warmly for the hike.

Check out the Hafnleysa Maritime museum

A small but informative spot, the Hafnleysa Maritime Museum offers a look at the region’s rich maritime history. You’ll find ship artifacts and salvaged vessels that tell the story of Iceland’s coastal heritage. At less than $5 for admission, it’s an affordable way to spend an hour, especially on a chilly or windy day.

Take your photo with Vik Voyages statue

Located by the Black Sand Beach, the Vik Voyages statue depicts a man gazing out to sea, reflecting the region’s deep connection to the ocean. Designed by Icelandic artist Steinunn Thorarinsdottir, the statue symbolizes the life of those waiting for loved ones to return from sea. It’s a perfect quick stop for a memorable photo!

Join an ice cave tour

From mid-September to early April, you can join an ice cave tour through Iceland’s glaciers. These tours to the Katla Ice Cave operate only during ideal weather conditions, so your tour may be canceled due to weather. The experience is unforgettable, though, and a unique way to witness Iceland’s natural beauty.

Visit the lava show

A fun experience, especially for families, the Icelandic Lava Show is an educational opportunity to learn about the country’s volcanic activity. Though it’s more about hot glass than actual lava, it’s still a great way to dive into Iceland’s geological wonders.

Visit Solheimasandur

Located on the black sand beach of Solheimasandur, the wreckage of a DC-3 plane offers a surreal photo opportunity. The hike to the wreck is about 4 kilometers one-way, so be sure to prepare accordingly.

Personally, I prefer the less-famous option that’s about an hour from Vik.

Explore the coast on an ATV

For an adrenaline-packed adventure, consider an ATV ride along Iceland’s stunning coast. Starting near Vik at the foot of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, this tour takes you all the way to the DC-3 plane wreck. The ATV ride offers a far more exciting experience than the walk!

Hike a glacier

For a truly unique Icelandic experience, you can take a beginner-friendly hike on Sólheimajökull Glacier. The hike is non-technical, so even first-timers can enjoy the adventure with a trained guide. Just be sure to wear appropriate footwear for the crampons provided.

Hike one of the many nearby trails

There are some excellent hiking opportunities near Vik, Iceland. Which (of course because it’s Iceland) include waterfall options.

• Dyrhólaey | A scenic hike offering a different perspective of the Black Beach and a view of the natural arch.
• Kvernufoss | A hidden waterfall hike that’s less than a mile long, making it accessible to most visitors.
• Nauthúsagil | My favorite hidden gem! A short trail leading to a breathtaking waterfall in a secluded canyon.

See the Vík i Myrdal Church

Perched high above the town, the Vík I Myrdal Church offers picturesque views of the coastline. While the church itself is a minimalist structure built in the 1930s, it’s worth a quick stop for the sweeping scenery. The church still serves as a community space for locals and offers a peaceful spot to take in the views.

Vik Iceland in a day

Welcome to Vik! I absolutely love this charming village, and I’m sure you will too. Today, we’ll explore some of the top things to do in and around Vik, setting the stage for more adventurous experiences tomorrow.

Start your day with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate at the adorable Skool Beans. This converted yellow school bus serves up amazing drinks, complemented by a wood-fired stove for added ambiance. The space may be small, but it’s cozy and perfect for grabbing a drink to fuel your day. Don’t forget to check out their souvenirs – stickers, mugs, and other quirky designs make great keepsakes.

Next, head out to one of my favorite hikes near Vik, Nauthúsagil. It’s less than an hour away and offers a peaceful, relatively undiscovered experience. On your way, make a quick stop at the lesser-known plane wreck off Route 250. It’s the perfect spot for photos without the crowds that typically gather at Solheimasandur (though the latter is closer, it’s a longer walk and more tourist-heavy).

At Nauthúsagil, you’ll find a beautiful little waterfall tucked into a canyon, with just a few fellow hikers along the way. Afterward, make your way to Mia’s Country Van, located near the Skogafoss waterfall. This food truck serves up some of the best fish and chips in Iceland—flaky fish with a crunchy coating that’s sure to satisfy your hunger.

You can either hike to the top of Skogafoss for panoramic views or head straight back to Vik to relax after your delicious meal. Once back in Vik, freshen up before continuing your afternoon of exploring the town.

Your first stop is the Katla Wool Shop. This quaint shop is run by a local woman from her basement, where she sells a carefully curated selection of handmade wool items. Whether you’re after a cozy sweater, scarf, or hat, this is the place to find something special.

Next, take a quick tour of the Hafnleysa Maritime Museum. It’s a small museum but offers fascinating insight into Vik’s maritime history and the seafaring life along the southern coast of Iceland.

As late afternoon approaches, head to the Black Beach (Reynisfjara). The beach is stunning at any time of day, but it’s especially magical around sunset. You’ll see locals and tourists alike walking along the shoreline and snapping photos. Just be cautious of the strong tides—safety first!

For dinner, make your way to Strondin Pub. Known for its fantastic seafood soup, this cozy spot also serves traditional Icelandic dishes like fish stew and arctic char. They have an excellent selection of local craft beers on tap, so if you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ll want to try a few. Strondin operates on a walk-in-only basis, so be sure to arrive early if you’re visiting during high season.

After dinner, follow the local tradition and head to the local swimming pool. The geothermal pools offer the perfect way to unwind after a busy day. Plus, your entry includes access to the sauna—an ideal spot to relax before heading back to your accommodation. Many locals visit before bedtime and even bring their pajamas to change into after their swim!

Day 2

For your second day in Vik, dive into some of the unique adventure activities nearby. One of the highlights is the Katala Ice Cave Tour. These tours are seasonal and weather-dependent, as they only operate when the ice is frozen enough. Our own tour was canceled two days in a row due to weather conditions, but if you get the chance to go, you’ll be mesmerized by the cave’s natural beauty and the natural glacier lagoon, too.

If ice caving isn’t your thing, consider a Glacier hike instead. After all, how often do you get the chance to hike on a glacier? These glacier hikes are perfect for beginners, as the company provides all the necessary gear for a safe and enjoyable experience.

For dinner, head to Black Crust Pizzeria. Their unique pizzas—such as marinated duck with date pesto—are a treat, and surprisingly affordable for Iceland. If you’re craving something hearty, The Soup Company offers a wide variety of delicious soups, perfect for warming up after a glacier hike or ice cave tour.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Vik?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Vik, and I was lucky enough to witness them during my trip! However, I quickly learned that seeing the aurora is not as easy as the countless online photos might make it seem.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland requires perfect conditions. First, you need clear skies—a major challenge, as clouds can often obstruct the view even when the aurora is active. Second, the scientific conditions must align. We relied on the My Aurora Forecast app to track the likelihood of seeing the lights each night, which was incredibly helpful for planning.

The key takeaway? The longer you stay in Iceland, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights—not just in Vik but anywhere in the country. Patience and persistence are essential!

More Iceland Tips + Inspiration

• Don’t miss this complete 7-day road trip itinerary to get some inspiration for your trip planning (including time on the Ring Road)
• Packing for Iceland is a struggle… but it doesn’t have to be! Here’s a helpful guide.
• Save a lot of money on your Iceland trip with my 10 Ways to Save Money in Iceland guide