21 Best Things to Do in Vik, Iceland in 2025: Ice Caves, Puffins & More
Looking for the best things to do in Vik, Iceland? This tiny south coast village—officially Vík í Mýrdal—has A LOT to offer. With black sand beaches, epic hikes, and ground zero for a bunch of adventure tours, it’s more than worth a stay.
I visited Vik on both of my trips to Iceland and just love how much there is to do in and around this town. Whether you’re chasing puffins, seeking the infamous black sand, or itching to traverse a glacier, Vík will provide.
Here’s your guide to the top 21 activities in Vik, Iceland, plus where to stay, nearby gems, and a 2-day itinerary.
IN A HURRY? HERE ARE MY TOP 3 THINGS TO DO IN VIK:
ICE CAVE TOUR– Maybe THE best thing to do in Vik
LAVA SHOW– One of the most popular things to do in Vik
ATV SAFARI TO PLANE WRECK– Exhilarating!
Things to Do in Vik, Iceland for Adventure Seekers
You could easily spend a whole week in Vik going on different excursions- it’s a hub for adventure tours and a great place to be if you like to do unique and sometimes adrenaline-pumping activities!
1. Take an Ice Cave Tour
One of the most unique things you can do in Vik is explore ice caves. The caves are above ground and are hollowed out sections of a glacier (due to melting).
Every season is a unique experience because the melting causes the caves to shift and change. The tubular pathways and different colors of the ice are truly incredible to see in person
The Katla Ice Cave is on the east side of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. You can ONLY see it with a guided tour (most are around 3 hours). You also get to ride in a “super jeep” that is equipped for F roads (off-roading).
Tip: Book ahead! Winter is the busiest, and tours sell out.
Cost: Around $224 per person
2. Hike or ATV to Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
Seeing the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is one of the most popular activites in Vik. The plane is a US Navy cargo plane that crashed in 1973. Everyone on board survived the crash.
The wreckage is particularly striking because it’s a white plane on a black sand beach.
You can park in the carpack off of route 1 and hike there (about 2 hours total), or you can take this ATV tour (my suggestion), or you can take a shuttle from the parking lot for $24.
Cost: Free (to hike), $24 to take the shuttle, $130 for ATV tour
3. Ride Icelandic Horses on the Black Sand Beach
Horseback riding in Vik, Iceland, is a memorable experience. Icelandic horses have a special gait called a “tolt” that makes them really smooth to ride. They are strong, sturdy horses—the only type of horse in Iceland!
You can ride these culturally iconic horses on the iconic black sand beaches with this tour that starts at the stables in Vik and takes you off-roading (on horseback) to the wide open black sand beaches.
Cost: $115 per person
Don’t forget travel insurance on your Iceland adventure! I always go with Safety Wing! They even have an adventure sports add-on, which is perfect for Iceland.
4. Hike on Sólheimajökull Glacier
This is a relatively easy hike, doable for most travelers. All equipment is provided. You will have the opportunity to see ice formations, crevasses, cauldrons, and even drink glacial water.
This is a unique opportunity to actually walk on a glacier instead of just looking at it from afar.
Cost: Around $130 per person
5. Kayaking on the Sólheimajökull Glacier Lagoon
Kayaking in a glacier lagoon is SO COOL. We had so much fun escaping the crowds and getting out on the water for a peaceful experience. Get up close (not too close!) with the glaciers, and even see some of them flip over!
This tour is around 2.5 hours and provides all of the gear you will need. Your tour guide will share information about the glacier and the icebergs and also allow time for quiet paddling.
Cost: $145 per person
6. Zipline and Hiking Adventure Tour in Vík
If you really want to get your adrenaline going, check out this zipline tour in Vik! This tour combines hiking and ziplining to see Iceland’s landscape (including a glacier, rivers, and mountainous terrain) from a bird’s-eye view.
The tour is around 2 hours and meets in central Vik.
Cost: Around $105 per person
7. Mýrdalsjökull Snowmobile Adventure
Don’t want to fly over or hike across the glacier? How about snowmobiling across it? This tour takes you across the snowfields of Mýrdalsjökull to the Katla Volcano Caldera, all on a snowmobile!
You’ll spend an hour on the snowmobiles, and the fun guides will share information about Iceland and let you test out your snowmobile skills while taking in the incredible views of the south coast.
Cost: Around $220 per person
Vik’s Coolest Low-Key Gems
Not everyone is seeking activities that raise their heart rate and require a safety briefing. No problem! There’s plenty to do in Vik that doesn’t require suiting up in coveralls, crampons, helmets, or whatever else!
These Vik activities are great for wildlife and nature lovers, history buffs, wellness travelers, families, and couples alike.
8. Take in the Views (and hikes) at Dyrholaey
Dyrhólaey is a dramatic peninsula with views of the Atlantic, black sand beaches, and wildlife. It’s a scenic 15-minute drive west of Vik on Route 218.
I do not know how to pronounce Dryholaey properly, but my husband and I call it “Dry-hole-ee-oh” and giggle about it every time.
The cliffs offer panoramic views of black sand beaches, the Atlantic, and a natural rock arch carved by the sea- this is the most recognizable landmark at Dryholaey (pictured).
It also has an old (functioning) lighthouse, and in summer, it’s a popular spot to see puffins. You are supposedly able to see them May-September, but we went in September on our first trip to Iceland and did not see them.
With so many short hikes, geological features, views, and wildlife, exploring Dryholaey is one of the best things to do in Vik, Iceland, especially for photographers and nature lovers.
Tip: Visit at sunrise to avoid crowds. Cost: Free.
9. Experience the Lava Show
The Lava Show in Vik lets you see real molten lava up close. This 1-hour show recreates a volcanic eruption safely. You’ll learn all about the Katla Volcano eruption and lava behavior. You can even touch the lava as it’t cooling towards the end of the show.
This is a fun and educational activity for all ages.
Tip: Reserve online; it sells out fast.
Cost: $50
10. Visit Myrdal Church
Myrdal Church sits above Vik. It’s a must-see (and hard to miss) Vik Iceland attraction. Its red roof and white walls stand out against the volcanic landscape, towering over the town.
You can walk up to it from central Vik in 10 minutes or drive (like we did…it was pouring rain!). The views are most stunning in all seasons, but especially spring (flowers) and winter.
11. Visit the Hafnleysa Maritime museum
The Hafnleysa Maritime Museum is a fun way to learn more about the town’s coastal history. It’s a small but fascinating stop among Vik Iceland attractions, with exhibits on fishing and shipwrecks. You can walk from Vik’s center.
Cost: Around $5.
12. Sip Craft Beer at Smidjan Brugghus
If you are a beer fan, you will appreciate Smidjan Brugghus, a cozy brewery in the center of Vik. They have 10 Icelandic craft beers on tap, plus good pub food (including a vegan burger).
It’s laid-back and perfect for a post-adventure meal and beer (at least we thought so!). The brewers believe that Iceland’s water makes the beer taste better. I’m not sure if I agree, but I love the enthusiasm! It’s on Vikurbraut road, close to most hotels in Vik.
Cost: Food and beverages in Iceland are expensive, but you can find some beers for 5 USD here (up to 20 USD).
13. Shop at Katla Wool Knitting Factory
For a unique souvenir, visit Katla Wool Shop on Vik’s main street. This charming spot sells handmade wool items—sweaters, scarves, mittens—crafted with Icelandic flair, perfect if you need an extra layer for the cold weather.
It’s one of the best activities in Vik, Iceland, for a cozy keepsake or gift. Prices range from $20 for small items to $100+ for sweaters.
Tip: Chat with the staff about local wool traditions.
14. Visit Reynisfjara Beach – A Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara Beach is a 10-minute drive east of Vik on the Ring Road (Route 1). It’s a top Vik Iceland attraction. The black sand, basalt columns, and big choppy waves create a unique and rugged experience.
We even had a celebrity sighting when we went to Reynisfjara Beach. We saw Sam Thompson (British singer/songwriter) filming a music video here!
Cost: The beach is free, but parking is not! Pay for your parking 🙂
Tip: Wear waterproof boots and visit early to beat tour buses.
15. Hike to Loftsalahellir – a Hidden Cave
On your way to or from Dyrhólaey, just off of 218, there is a cave with views overlooking the Dyrhólaey peninsula and Reynisfjara Beach—this is a hidden gem among things to do in Vik, Iceland.
The cave is made of volcanic rock covered in moss and ferns. It looks like a cave out of a fairy tale! And the opening frames the most perfect view!
We just happened to spot this cave while driving and pulled off to check it out. A couple was leaving as we arrived, so we had the whole thing to ourselves.
There is a trail that leads to the cave from a small parking lot on the side of the road. It crosses a meadow and then ascends briefly. The hike is easy and only takes 5 minutes, but it can be a little muddy, so wear boots.
Once you get to the top, have a picnic, watch the birds, soak in the views, or just check it out and leave. It’s worth it!
Tip: Bring a flashlight to explore deeper.
Cost: Free.
16. Strondin Pub
Strondin Pub, on the main street through Vik, is a local hangout perfect for unwinding. It’s a great place to meet other travelers (or locals) and relax after a long day of adventuring!
17. Grab a Coffee at Skool Beans
Skool Beans is a coffee shop located inside a retro school bus near Vik’s campground. It’s known for its artisanal coffee and HOT CHOCOLATE. Yes, it has a whole hot chocolate menu!!
It also has Matcha lattes (made with ceremonial grade matcha). I always seek out the [good] matchas when I travel, so I was happy to find one here. They also have snacks and other tea beverages. A must stop!
18. Swim at Vik’s Local Pool (Sundlaugin Vik)
There aren’t any hot springs or geothermal spas in Vík í Mýrdal, but Vík’s Sport and Swimming Center is a fun, affordable thing to do if you’re craving a soak or swim with the family.
It’s located off Route 1 near the town center. It has an outdoor lap pool and hot tubs heated by natural springs and a sauna (of course).
Cost: 1.250 kr (~9 USD) for entry and the same price for a towel rental
19. Spot Puffins at Dyholaey Lighthouse
From May to August (and sometimes into September), Dyrhólaey Lighthouse becomes a puffin hotspot. Observing them here is one of the most popular things wildlife lovers can do in Vik, Iceland.
The puffins nest on the cliffs of Dryholeay, and the lighthouse adds a scenic backdrop. You can drive to Dryholey in 15 minutes or hike along the beach. The hike is moderately challenging and takes about an hour and a half round-trip.
Tip: Bring binoculars for close-up views. If you hike, be careful of rising tides and high winds.
Cost: Free.
Also Read 👉 15 BEST Things to Do in Husavik, Iceland
Things to Do Near Vík, Iceland
Vik is a popular town, but the center is quite small. A lot of the attractions are actually just outside of town. Many tours begin in Vik and take you elsewhere.
Whether you’re taking tours or exploring on your own, Vík is an ideal base for exploring southern Iceland’s wonders. Here are some nearby gems that you can journey to on your own:
20. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjadrargljufur Canyon is a stunning canyon about an hour from Víkl. It’s a 330-foot-deep and 1-mile-long canyon and looks like it’s out of a fairy tale. It will look different depending on the time of year, i.e., expect snow in winter!
You can hike the 2-mile round-trip trail along the rim for incredible views of jagged cliffs and waterfalls. It’s a peaceful escape from the town center (not a lot of people venture out here).
Justin Bieber shot a music video here in 2016 for his song “I’ll Show You”. The canyon is featured at the very beginning of the video (below). Apparently, Iceland is a popular place for artists to make music videos! haha
21. Hot Springs
There are no hot springs in Vik, but there are some in the surrounding area. Seljavallalaug Hot Spring is the closest, around 35 minutes away. It’s actually a geothermally heated pool, not a hot spring. So it’s not very hot.
The dramatic views might be worth a visit for you, though (see photo below).
A bit farther (about 2 hours past Vik), this hot river is hot! You have to hike a couple of miles to get there, but then you can soak in its naturally warm waters surrounded by steaming vents and mountains. Bring a towel and water shoes!
2-Day Vik Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: Coffee at Skool Beans, then explore Reynisfjara Beach.
- Afternoon: Lunch at Smidjan Brugghus, followed by a hike around Dyrhólaey and then a stop at Loftsalahellir cave, OR hike or ATV tour to the plane wreck
- Evening: Dinner and relax at the local pool or your hotel hot tub.
Day 2
- Morning: Ice cave or snowmobile tour, or hike on the glacier, or kayak in the lagoon (book ahead!).
- Afternoon: See the Lava Show, then stroll to Myrdal Church, or pick up a souvenir at the wool knitting factory
- Evening: Craft beer at Smidjan, dinner in town, relax
Is Vik Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Vík has a small-town charm with epic nature and adventure at your fingertips. Just in town, you can see black sand beaches, glaciers, lava, and puffins.
If you want to do something more adventurous, it’s a hub for adventure tours like snowmobiling, ice caving, and glacier hiking. It’s perfect for a quick stop on your Ring Road road trip, or a longer stay. I’d go back in a heartbeat.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Vik?
Yes! In fact, Reynisfjara Beach is a popular destination for travelers hoping to catch the Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
Vík’s low light pollution and southern location make it a great spot for Northern Lights viewing from late fall to early spring. Check the forecast and join a tour for the best odds.
Where to Stay in Vik, Iceland
Iceland has some really amazing places to stay. When we were in Vik, we stayed at Katla Hotel the first time, and Hotel Vik the second time.
I highly recommend both. For a more budget option, the Barn Hostel is a great option.
Hotel Katla
We stayed at Hotel Katla our first time in Vik. It has a beautiful lobby, and the breakfast and dinners were surprisingly fantastic. The rooms are somewhat basic, but they are spacious, modern, and clean.
The best part about Hotel Katla was the geothermal hot tub and sauna (pictured). This is a great hotel for couples, families, and groups.
Hotel Vík
Hotel Vik is centrally located in Vik and offers cozy but modern upscale design. It has great views of Vik, as its set towards the back of the town, and also has amazing breakfasts. This is where we stayed on our second trip to Vik.
One fun amenity here is that they will send a wake-up call to your room when the northern lights are visible (if you want).
The Barn Hostel
The Barn Hostel is in such a cool location near the beach. It’s also super modern and stylish. It has dorms and private rooms with a cozy, communal vibe, making it perfect for solo travelers or groups.
It’s more expensive than your average hostel, but still less than most hotels.
Getting Around Iceland
I recommend renting a car to get around Iceland. Vík is 2.5 hours from Reykjavík, and there are TONS of opportunities to stop along the way to see waterfalls, hot springs, hikes, and so much more.
Having a car gives you the most flexibility. If you don’t rent a car, you can bus to Vik and book local tours that handle transportation to adventures like ice caves and ATVs, so you won’t need to drive everywhere.
Wrap Up
Vik, Iceland, may be small, but it packs a punch! From ice cave tours and black sand beaches to sipping craft beer at Smidjan Brugghus, there are plenty of things to do in Vik, Iceland, to keep you busy for a week!
I’ve visited twice and still haven’t seen or done it all! Next time, I plan on doing a glacier hike and exploring more nearby gems like Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, and hopefully catching the Northern Lights.
So, pack your boots and book that hotel! What’s your top pick from this list? Send me an email—I’d love to hear your plans!
