A Winter Wonderland: Three Memorable Days in Iceland
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Is three days in Iceland enough? The short answer is NO! But, as I discovered during my visit in early November 2023, you can still have an incredible experience packed into such a short time. This trip was special, a celebration for my son's 21st birthday, and my first winter visit to this enchanting land. I booked the entire trip through Expedia - click on over and book yours too!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Reykjavik
Our journey began with a flight via Icelandair, where we opted for extra legroom seats – a small upgrade that made a big difference. My top tip for travelers: bring a travel pillow to catch some rest before landing at Keflavik Airport at 6:00 a.m. Prebooking our bus transfer with Reykjavik Excursions ensured a smooth 45-minute ride into the city, this time in complete darkness, a stark contrast to my summer visit with its endless daylight.
In Reykjavik, we stayed at The EDITION, a luxurious yet welcoming hotel adjacent to the Harpa Concert Hall. Our initial plan was to visit the Blue Lagoon, but unexpected seismic activity led to its closure. However, Reykjavik's charm filled the gap beautifully. We wandered through the downtown area, marveling at the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church and the stunning Sun Voyager Sculpture, both must-see landmarks.
Day 2: An Adventure to Katla Ice Caves
Our second day was an exhilarating excursion to the Katla Ice Caves with Arctic Excursions on Trip Advisor. This 11-hour journey was filled with picturesque stops, including the Skogafoss waterfalls. The transition to super jeeps for the off-road segment to the ice caves was an adventure in itself. The caves, a mesmerizing blend of volcanic ash and glacial ice, were a sight to behold. They're constantly changing, so each visit offers a unique experience. On our way back, a nighttime visit to the illuminated Seljalandfoss Falls added a magical touch to an already unforgettable day.
Day 3: A Quest for Northern Lights
The final day was intentionally more relaxed. I booked a massage for my son (a birthday treat!) and an evening cruise through Reykjavik harbor, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. While the elusive lights remained hidden, the trip was still a joy, offering stunning views of the city from the water. A highlight was seeing the Imagine Peace Tower, Yoko Ono's tribute to peace, shining brightly with its message in multiple languages.
Final Thoughts
While three days only scratch the surface of what Iceland offers, each day was a treasure trove of experiences. From the vibrant city life of Reykjavik to the raw, natural beauty of the ice caves and waterfalls, Iceland's allure lies in its diversity. Its winter landscape, starkly different from the endless summer days, offers its own unique charm.
Iceland is more than a destination; it's an experience. With every visit offering something new, it's a place that calls you back, promising more adventures and breathtaking sights. If you ever get the chance to visit, don't hesitate. It's an unforgettable journey that will leave you yearning for more. And with the right travel cards, these adventures can happen even sooner, bringing your dream destinations within reach.
Editorial Note - Opinions expressed here are author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
