Last Minute Holidays to Iceland

The places most travellers choose first, each with a clear reason to be on the shortlist.

• Reykjavik: Reykjavik is the obvious starting point for a last minute trip, because the compact centre keeps most museums, restaurants and the old harbour within walking distance of your hotel. Its harbour dining district and lively evening scene suit short stays well. The trade-off is price, since city accommodation fills quickly and costs more than rural options. We recommend it for first-time visitors who want easy day trips and a reliable base. It is exactly the brief our Reykjavik holidays deals are built around.
• Akureyri: Akureyri sits at the head of a long fjord in the north and is the largest town in that part of the island. Its cafes and relaxed pace make it a calm alternative to the capital, and whale watching trips from nearby coastal villages are within reach by road. Flights are less frequent than to the capital, so schedule flexibility matters. We suggest it for couples and families who want a quieter base with a northern focus.
• Vik: Vik is a small village on the south coast, roughly half a day's drive along the Ring Road from the capital, and it is a natural overnight stop for coastal scenery. The surrounding black sand beaches and basalt sea stacks are striking, though the area is among the wettest in the country. Accommodation is limited, so late bookings should be made early in the day. We recommend it for travellers building a self-drive route along the south.
• Hofn: Hofn is a fishing town in the southeast and a practical base for visiting the glacier lagoon and the nearby headland. It is further from the capital than most resorts, so travel time is longer and a rental car becomes essential. In return you gain quieter streets and easy access to dramatic landscapes. We suggest it for experienced road travellers who value remote scenery over city amenities.
• Husavik: Husavik is a small harbour town on the north coast and the base for some of the country's best-known whale watching tours. The town centre and harbour are close together, which keeps evenings simple and relaxed. Options for overnight stays are fewer than in larger towns, so flexibility on dates helps. We recommend it for wildlife enthusiasts who want a focused northern break.