The 15 Best Things to Do in Iceland in April

1. Tour the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a top route in southwestern Iceland, perfect for a day trip from Reykjavík. It includes three main stops: Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

At Þingvellir, you can dive between two tectonic plates at the Silfra fissure, an amazing geological site. In April, the park looks beautiful with melting snow and the first green plants starting to grow.

Next is the Geysir Geothermal Area, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water into the air. Visiting in April means fewer people, so you can watch the geyser without feeling rushed. Finally, Gullfoss Waterfall is a must-see. The spring melt makes the falls even stronger, and you might catch a rainbow in the mist. If you want to relax after the Golden Circle, the Secret Lagoon is nearby, and it's a very nice place.

2. Chase the South Coast Waterfalls

Iceland’s South Coast has some of the country’s most impressive waterfalls, each with its own charm. Seljalandsfoss is famous because you can walk behind the waterfall, offering a different view of the falling water. In April, the melting snow makes the falls even more powerful. Just a short walk away is Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall inside a cave.

Not far down the road is Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s mightiest waterfalls. You can climb the stairs to get a view from the top, but the best part is standing at the bottom and feeling the mist on your face. Nearby, you’ll find Kvernufoss, a quieter spot where you can also walk behind the waterfall.

3. Admire the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most stunning sights. Huge icebergs break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and float in the lagoon before drifting out to sea. In April, the longer daylight hours let you fully appreciate the beauty of the icebergs in different lights. I recommend taking the boat tour to get closer to the icebergs, as it also includes an expert guide who will tell you all about the lagoon and the glacier. You might also spot seals swimming on the ice.

Just across the road is Diamond Beach, where smaller ice pieces from Jökulsárlón wash up on the black sand, creating a unique contrast. The ice sparkles in the sunlight, making it a perfect photo spot. You can also explore the nearby Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

4. Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature,” has it all: glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, and dramatic sea cliffs. Kirkjufell, a cone-shaped mountain, is one of the most photographed spots in Iceland. In April, the mountain looks great with the surrounding landscape, and the nearby waterfall, Kirkjufellsfoss, makes the view even nicer.

The Lóndrangar Cliffs are another highlight, featuring tall basalt formations that look like old castles. These cliffs are home to many seabirds, especially in spring when they return to nest. After exploring the cliffs, visit charming fishing villages like Arnarstapi and Hellnar, where you can enjoy coastal walks and local seafood. The peninsula also offers great views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier, a snow-capped volcano featured in Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth. You can even climb to the peak if you want. It’s really cool.

5. Relax at Vök Baths

Located in East Iceland near Egilsstaðir, Vök Baths offers a unique way to relax in geothermal pools that float on Lake Urriðavatn. The warm, mineral-rich waters are perfect for relaxing while enjoying views of snow-covered mountains and the thawing lake. April’s cool air makes the hot bath even better. But, if you want to take the experience a step further, I’d recommend you (or dare you) to jump into the lake and then return to the pools; the lake is freezing, so the contrast is awesome.

After your bath, explore the surrounding area, known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Take a walk along the lake, visit nearby hiking trails, or explore the town of Egilsstaðir, which has cozy cafes and shops. Visiting Vök Baths is not a full-day activity, but it’s a nice option for relaxing after a busy day of walking or a long trip from South Iceland.

6. Discover the Ice Caves at Vatnajökull

Exploring Iceland's ice caves, especially those under the Vatnajökull glacier, is a unique experience you can still enjoy in April. These caves are formed naturally and offer stunning views of blue ice formations. Guided tours are essential for safety and to learn more about how these incredible structures are created. In April, the caves start to change because it’s getting warmer, so the ice looks slightly different with new shapes and patterns. Just book your tour in advance and dress warmly for the chilly conditions inside the caves.

While you're there, take some time to see more of Vatnajökull National Park. Skaftafell is a good place to hike and see glaciers and waterfalls like Svartifoss. Even if ice cave tours are slowing down, there’s plenty to do in the park.

7. Go Whale Watching (Húsavík)

Húsavík is known as Iceland’s whale-watching capital, and April is a great time to see these amazing creatures. Minke whales, humpback whales, and dolphins start to return to the fjords, so the chances of spotting them are pretty good. The boat tours in April are smaller and less crowded, giving you a more personal experience on the water.

Besides whale watching, Húsavík has a charming harbor area with cafes and shops to explore. Visit the Whale Museum to learn more about marine life, or take a walk along the waterfront to enjoy the views of the mountains surrounding the ocean. The town itself is lovely in April, with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation after a whale-watching adventure.

8. Watch Puffins Return to Dyrhólaey

Dyrhólaey, located on the South Coast, is a great spot to watch puffins returning to nest in April. These little birds make the cliffs feel more alive, and you can often see them from the designated viewing areas. The cliffs also give you some amazing views of the black sand beaches below, so it’s a nice spot to watch wildlife and take a few photos.

April is early in the puffin season, so you can enjoy seeing these birds without the larger summer crowds. After watching the puffins, take some time to explore nearby Reynisfjara Beach with its unique basalt columns and sea stacks. The area around Dyrhólaey is full of dramatic landscapes, so it’s perfect for spending the day exploring and enjoying nature.

9. Stroll Along Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is right outside the small village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. It’s a winding canyon with tall, mossy walls and a clear river running through it. In April, you’ll see some leftover snow mixed with new green plants, which looks awesome. Walking along the path by the canyon gives you different views of the river and the area around it.

Unlike some of Iceland’s busier spots, Fjaðrárgljúfur is pretty quiet in the spring, making it a great place for a chill hike. After your walk, you can hang out at one of the cozy cafes or check out the local shops in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The area around the canyon is also great for exploring other natural spots, making it a good choice for a full day of outdoor activities.

10. Be Mesmerized by Stokksnes and the Hvalnes Lighthouse

Stokksnes is on Iceland’s southeast coast and is known for its black sand dunes and the big Vestrahorn mountain. In April, the dark sand, green grass, and snowy peaks look really nice in the soft light. It’s a bit off the beaten path, so it's usually not crowded.

Close by, Hvalnes Lighthouse is a quiet spot with great ocean views. Walking around the lighthouse, you can hear the waves and enjoy the fresh sea air. Bringing a warm drink to sip while you look at the views is a good idea. The area is perfect for photography, hiking, or simply relaxing and soaking up the natural beauty of the region.

11. Hike to Stórurð (The Giant Boulders)

Stórurð, which means “The Giant Boulders,” is a hidden spot in East Iceland known for its huge rocks and clear ponds. To get there, you'll need to do some hiking, and if you're visiting in April, there might still be some snow on the trails. But trust me, it's worth the effort. The area feels untouched and really peaceful, with a unique landscape that's perfect for exploring and taking awesome photos.

The bright blue water of the ponds stands out against the rugged volcanic land, offering some amazing views. Since Stórurð is pretty remote, you won't run into many other visitors, giving you plenty of space to enjoy the natural beauty. After your hike, you can check out nearby villages or drive through the beautiful East Fjords to keep your adventure going.

12. Witness the Kolugljúfur Canyon

If you're traveling in North Iceland, don’t miss the Kolugljúfur Canyon. It's a small canyon made by the Víðidalsá River and has a few waterfalls that flow into it. In April, the melting snow makes the waterfalls bigger, creating a nice flow of water that's great to watch. There's a viewing spot where you can safely enjoy the view and hear the water rushing below.

Kolugljúfur is away from the main tourist paths, so it stays quiet even in spring. As the snow melts, the area around the canyon turns green, making the area even more colorful. It's a perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs, and enjoy some nature before you continue your trip through North Iceland.

13. Marvel at Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss are two waterfalls right next to each other in West Iceland, and they’re pretty different. Hraunfossar is made up of small streams that come out of a lava field and flow into the Hvítá River, creating soft, easy-flowing falls. In April, when the snow melts, the water picks up and makes the falls even more impressive.

Barnafoss is just a short walk away, but it’s a lot more intense. The water crashes through narrow rock gaps, creating a fast, powerful waterfall. Seeing the two together really shows how different Iceland’s nature can be. After visiting, you can swing by Reykholt, where you can find some old historic sites and hot springs to relax in.

14. Wander Around the Gjáin Valley

Gjáin is a small, beautiful valley near Háifoss in the Þjórsárdalur region. It’s an easy walk to get there, and when you arrive, you’ll find waterfalls, streams, and lava formations. In April, moss and wildflowers start popping up, adding some color to the scene. Some areas might still have patches of snow, which makes the valley look even nicer.

It’s usually pretty quiet in spring, so you’ll probably have the place to yourself. Nearby, you can visit Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, or explore Viking-era farm sites to learn more about the region’s history. Gjáin is perfect for a quiet day of hiking, taking photos, and enjoying Icelandic nature.

15. Take it all in at Seljavallalaug Pool

Seljavallalaug is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland, hidden in a valley near Seljalandsfoss waterfall. The pool is naturally heated by hot springs, so the water stays warm even when it’s cold in April. You’ll need to take a short walk along a path to get there, and it can get muddy, so wear good shoes.

When you arrive, you can sit in the warm water and enjoy the view of snowy mountains and patches of green starting to show. It’s a cool spot to relax, and since not many people know about it, you’ll probably have it mostly to yourself. It’s a great place to take it easy after exploring the South Coast.

Conclusion

April is a great time to visit Iceland without the summer crowds. You can check out popular spots like the Golden Circle or visit quieter places like Stórurð. There’s a nice mix of winter views and early spring, making it a good time for any kind of trip.

Walk through canyons, soak in hot pools, or see puffins on the cliffs. April gives you many chances to get outside and enjoy Iceland’s nature. The days are longer, the roads are easier to drive, and you’ll have more time to find new places and enjoy the views. Plan a trip in April and see Iceland as it starts to feel like spring.