The best things to do in Vik include otherwordly rock formations, bird-watching cliffs and more. While Vik, or Vík í Mýrdal in the south of Iceland, is an extremely charming village with a picturesque red and white church on a lush green hill, this destination is mainly worth visiting for its unique natural phenomena nearby. Popular places to visit near Vik include Iceland’s glaciers, the Black Sand Beaches, spectacular basalt rocks, and more. Vik serves as the perfect base to explore South Iceland, but there are also beautiful places to visit within and around the village itself. In this blog you’ll learn about the best things to do in Vík, Iceland, including practical tips.
Netflix tip: check out the Icelandic Netflix series Katla, which takes place primarily in Vík í Mýrdal and depicts a post-apocalyptic world following the eruption of the Katla volcano near Vík.
How to get to Vík in Iceland
Vik, also known as Vík í Mýrdal meaning “bay in the marsh valley”, is a renowned location in southern Iceland and is the southernmost point of the country. Despite its small population, this village serves as a well-known base for exploring numerous attractions in the area. The most significant landmarks in Iceland are mainly situated in the southern region of the island.
Located on the Ring Road and the southern coast of Iceland, Vik is a convenient stop for travelers exploring the south and driving the Ring Road. The village is 190 kilometers from Reykjavik, which takes approximately 2.5 hours to drive. The nearest international airport is in Kevlakvik, approximately a 3-hour drive away. One of the easternmost attractions in the south is the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, which can be reached in about 2.5 hours from Vik.
Where to stay in Vik
Where to stay in Vík while exploring the south of Iceland? The village is petite, consisting of just a few roads. Alongside the striking church, it offers a supermarket, gas station, tour companies, and mainly numerous hotels and hostels. Vík has the finest public transportation links. Nevertheless, as you are probably journeying through Iceland with a rental car, we advise you to also consider the stunning and unique accommodations outside of Vík. Within the rugged landscape surrounding Vik, you can discover stunning hotels and cabins with some of the most exquisite views.
The most beautiful cabins and hotels in Vík:
#1 Vik Cottages for charming cottages with stylish, contemporary decor nestled in the lush green hills adjacent to Vik. These cozy cottages are situated less than 500 meters from the black sand beach and have garnered rave reviews from guests.
#2 Black Beach Suites for a stay at one of the highest-rated accommodations in Vik. This hotel is praised for its beautiful location, breathtaking views, and charming rooms and cottages. With large windows in both the rooms and cottages, you can see the Northern Lights and enjoy a spectacular view of the surroundings and the sea. The impressive Dyrholæy cliff is visible from Black Beach Suites and the black beach is within walking distance.
#3 Vik Apartments for apartments with a breathtaking ocean view. They come equipped with a full kitchen, allowing guests to save money on Iceland’s notoriously expensive restaurants. Vik Apartments boasts high ratings due to its stylish decor, central location, beautiful surroundings, and comfortable accommodations.
#4 Farmhouse Lodge for stunning lodging at The Lodge, featuring the newly renovated guesthouse Cowhouse, and luxurious Glamping accommodations for two to four people. This exceptional sleeping destination is situated in a secluded location within an old farm, where the Northern Lights can be witnessed on clear nights.
#5 The Barn for a comfortable and cool hostel located just 7 kilometers from Vík, nestled between the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the southern coast of Iceland. Choose from private rooms with shared bathrooms or dormitories. The guests rave about the stunning decor, picturesque location, chance to witness the northern lights, and welcoming staff.
The best things to do in Vik
#1 Víkurkirkja
When searching for an image of Vik, it will undoubtedly include the prominent Vík i Myrdal Church. The church was constructed between 1931 and 1934 and subsequently consecrated by the Bishop of Iceland.
Víkurkirkja, also known as the Church of Vik, is a quintessential Icelandic place of worship known for its simplistic beauty that contrasts perfectly with the dramatic landscape. Situated on a hill adjacent to Vik, the white church with pointed towers and red roofing tiles is surrounded by asphalt. However, with the right angle, you can capture a photograph that excludes the asphalt and showcases the village and prominent black rocks in the background. Alternatively, during the summer, the green fields surrounding the church are adorned with a sea of purple lupines, offering a picturesque view.
#2 Black Sand Beach
Vik’s most famous attraction is undoubtedly the unique Black Sand Beaches near the village. Looking around the area and seeing the black rocks and cliffs, it’s no surprise that the sand here is black. Both the sand and rocks are made of basalt, a volcanic rock that remains after lava cools. This is the typical image of a tropical beach, so it is not surprising that the ocean is not suitable for swimming due to the strong currents and so-called “sneaker waves.” Even on the beach, it can be dangerous when these “sneaker waves” come far onto the shore.
Vik Black Sand Beach is located right next to the village. As most visitors tend to go further down the beach, this one is less crowded, granting you the opportunity to have the vast stretch of sand all to yourself.
Further down lies Reynisfjara Black Beach, one of the most beautiful attractions in Southern Iceland. Along this volcanic shore, you’ll find unearthly basalt cliffs with sharp black rocks jutting out like organ pipes. Additionally, you can enjoy a stunning view of the intricately formed Reynisdrangar rock pillars in the sea and the striking Dyrhólaey rock arch.
Dyrhólaey Plateau divides Reynisfjara Black Beach from Endless Black Beach, also known as Dyrhólaey Beach. As the name suggests, this black beach extends almost endlessly. Although it may not have the stunning cliffs and rock formations of Reynisfjara, it is still one of Iceland’s most beautiful beaches.
#3 Reynisdrangar
Off the coast of Iceland, near Vík, unique rock formations dramatically rise from the sea. These are the Reynisdrangar, iconic to this part of Iceland. Rarely do you see photos of Vík or the Black Sand Beaches without the basalt columns. They also appeared in season 7 of Game of Thrones and the Netflix series Katla.
The Reynisdranger rock formations are located directly off the coast near Reynisfjara Black Beach, where the columns are said to have originated from trolls. There are multiple tales about their origins, but the basalt columns are said to be petrified trolls. One story recounts how they attempted to pull a ship from the sea to the shore and turned to stone at sunrise. Another tale tells of two trolls who were turned to stone here after killing a woman, tricked by her husband.
In reality, the basalt columns are likely remnants of large sea cliffs that once lay here instead of along the current beach. Like the black sand and other black rocks at this location, Reynisdrangar is made of basalt, which is solidified and cooled lava from Icelandic volcanoes. The highest of the rugged rocks stands at an impressive height of 66 meters.
#4 The Hálsanefshellir Cave and Gardar cliffs
At Reynisfjara Black Beach, you can find unique basalt formations, including the Hálsanefshellir Cave. The jagged, black cliffs called Gardar along the black lava beach Reynisfjara are particularly photogenic. What makes this place even more special is the basalt cave that has been eroded into these cliffs.
The Gardar rock formation creates a surreal wall along the volcanic beach. Everything in this location is the result of volcanic activity, including the Garðar. The rock formations consist of basalt, which is solidified lava from a volcano. As the lava solidifies, it cools and contracts, causing cracks to form in the cooling rock, resulting in this unique pattern. It appears as if enormous rows of basalt pillars of varying heights are grouped together like a volcanic organ.
Even more remarkable is the Hálsanefshellir Cave, which formed in the Gardar rocks. The ceiling of this volcanic cave features a unique pattern of rugged basalt.
#5 Spotting puffins
The volcanic coastal area near Vík is a favored breeding ground of puffins, making it an ideal destination for bird enthusiasts, particularly during spring and summer.
The jagged Garðar cliffs along Reynisfjara Black Beach are a popular spot for the black and white birds. Climbing the unique basalt formations is dangerous and not animal-friendly, as it could disturb the puffins that nest here.
Further down, you will find many of these black and white puffins. Around the Dyrhólaey rock plateau, hundreds of these photogenic birds come to breed in the spring. The rock plateau is limited in accessibility during this time of year to avoid disturbing the breeding puffins. Cars aren’t allowed to drive all the way to the Dyrhólaey cliff, but pedestrians are allowed to come here. The exact timing depends on the breeding season of that year. Usually, the breeding puffins in Iceland can be found from early May to mid-June.
Tip: the Icelandic island of Vestmannaeyjar boasts the largest colony of puffins and is definitely worth a visit in spring.
#6 Lava Show
One of the most popular attractions in Vík is the Icelandic Lava Show in the village. Lasting approximately 50 minutes, the show provides an up-close encounter with scorching-hot lava. An expert Lava Master presents an interactive performance showcasing how lava reacts to water and ice. Not only is it a remarkable sight, but it also teaches visitors about volcanoes and how lava has shaped the surroundings of Vík. Online tickets for the Icelandic Lava Show are available for purchase, with two shows held daily.
The best things to do near Vik
#7 Dyrhólaey cliff
Next to Vik is the 120-meter high Dyrhólaey cliff. This coastal rock plateau is the southernmost point of Iceland and a beautiful place to visit. From the cliff, you can enjoy magnificent views of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach on one side and the Endless Black Beach on the other. You can also see the glaciers to the north of Vik, including Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull.
Another prominent attraction visible from the cliff is the Dyrhólaey Arch, which is undoubtedly recognizable from photographs of Iceland. It is an iconic landmark on the island, located in the extension of the Dyrhólaey cliff.
On the Dyrhólaey rock plateau, the striking Dyrhólaey Lighthouse, also known as ‘Dyrhólaeyjarviti’, stands tall. The lighthouse comprises three white blocks, with a red dome and a lamp located on the middle one. Although the lighthouse dates back to 1927, a beacon has been present on this cliff since 1910. Unfortunately, visitors are not allowed to tour the interior of the lighthouse.
#8 The Sólheimasandur plan wreck
One of the most remarkable sights at Vík is the DC-3 aircraft wreck on Sólheimasandur Black Beach. This stranded aircraft has been lying on the black sand since November 24, 1973, after a plane crash. The crew survived the accident, and the plane has remained on the black sand ever since.
The Sólheimasandur plane wreck is a picturesque attraction due to its desolate location. The United States Navy’s DC-3 lies on a remote expanse of black sand, where on clear nights, one can witness the stunning Northern Lights. Visitors can reach the airplane wreckage by foot or 4×4 vehicle. It takes approximately 45-60 minutes to walk from a parking area on the Ring Road to the location. It is not recommended to walk to the plane wreck on windy days, as you may be painfully sandblasted.
The airplane has become popular and well-visited thanks to a music video by Justin Bieber in which it was featured.
Tip: Did you know that there is another airplane wreck to be found in Iceland? It’s the much less visited DC-3 Airplane wreck in Eyvindarholt, not even that far from here. It may not be as beautifully located on a black beach, but it is much more accessible and less crowded.
#9 Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
Iceland is home to many breathtaking waterfalls, with Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss being particularly noteworthy. These waterfalls are conveniently located along the Ring Road, between Reykjavik and the village, and can be easily visited on a day trip from Vík.
Seljalandsfoss, one of the most frequently photographed locations in the country, can easily be spotted from the Ring Road. It towers at an impressive height of 65 meters. However, its key appeal is the possibility of venturing behind the waterfall. The path could be slippery due to the water spray, so it’s recommended to wear shoes with a solid grip. Seljalandsfoss is the only waterfall in Iceland that is illuminated at night. A canyon hiding the Gljúfurárfoss waterfall lies just beyond Seljalandsfoss. The view is said to be beautiful, but we found the water in the canyon too chilly to wade through.
Just a 30-minute drive from Seljalandsfoss, you can find the impressive Skógafoss waterfall, which is over 60 meters high and 25 meters wide. It is conveniently located alongside the Ring Road, making it visible from the road. From the parking lot, it’s an easy walk to the base of the waterfall, where you can often see rainbows in the mist. A staircase leads to the top for a breathtaking view.
East of Skogafoss lies another stunning waterfall called Kvernufoss, which stands at approximately 50 meters in height, matching the other waterfalls in this list. However, this one may be a bit more challenging to access. Rather than parking at the Skogafoss parking lot, park slightly east at the Skogar village museum. Next, follow a trail along a small stream to the east until you reach this natural wonder. Similar to Seljalandsfoss, visitors are also able to walk behind this waterfall, so be sure to wear suitable footwear and bring a raincoat as it can be slippery.
#10 Glaciers, the Katla Ice Cave and Jökulsárlón
As a land of ice and fire, Iceland and specifically Vík offer not only volcanic rocks and cliffs but also impressive ice fields. At Vík, you can find impressive glaciers, and on a day trip, you can also visit a beautiful glacier lake and beach with ice floes.
North of Vik, the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull are located directly above volcanoes. Eyjafjallajökull, one of the smaller glaciers in Iceland with an area of approximately 100 km², lies above a volcano with the same name. In March 2010, this volcano erupted twice, leading to a halt in air traffic within Europe due to the resulting ash clouds.
Mýrdalsjökull is significantly larger, covering an area of 595 km², and is situated atop the active Katla volcano. Although Katla has not erupted since 1918, it historically erupted every 40 to 80 years, making it imperative to monitor closely – even inspiring a Netflix series that delves into the aftermath of a possible eruption. With the aid of a knowledgeable guide, you can embark on hikes or snowmobile rides across the glacier, as well as take guided tours of the Katla Ice Cave hidden beneath it.
Further to the east, there are several more glaciers that can be visited on a day trip from Vik. The Vatnajökull Glacier in the Skaftafell-Vatnajökull National Park is particularly impressive. Covering an area of 8100 km², it is the largest glacier in Iceland and the second largest in Europe. In some places, the ice cap is as much as 1000 meters thick. Additionally, there are multiple volcanoes located beneath the glacier that exhibit regular activity. The most recent eruption occurred in 2004. Travelers can take a guided walk on the Vatnajökull Glacier, which we found to be one of the most impressive activities to do in Iceland.
Near the Vatnajökull glacier lies one of Iceland’s icons: the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. It is one of the glacier lagoons in Iceland, fed by meltwater from the glaciers. This lagoon receives large icebergs and ice sheets in the meltwater, making it a particularly photogenic sight. From the edge of the lake, you can see huge icebergs slowly drifting towards the Atlantic Ocean. These icebergs eventually end up on the black sand beach of Diamond Beach. The volcanic beach is full of ice in various shapes and sizes, making for a unique sight.
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