Honeymoon in Iceland: The Icing of Cake After Your Wedding

Why Iceland is a Great Destination for Honeymoons

Iceland offers stunning views, peaceful spots, fun activities, and a unique culture. Here are the top reasons it’s perfect for newlyweds.

Natural Beauty That Takes Your Breath Away

Iceland’s landscapes are incredible. Think about standing with your partner at Gullfoss, an enormous waterfall that drops into a canyon while the mist makes rainbows in the sun. Or walk on Reynisfjara Beach with black sand and tall rock columns, perfect for a honeymoon photo. Then there’s Vatnajökull, the biggest glacier in Europe. It shines in the sun, next to volcanic areas and hot springs. This mix feels wild and adventurous, unlike anywhere else.

Romantic Seclusion in Wide-Open Spaces

Iceland feels romantic because of its quiet spots and open land. You can walk and feel alone, with few people and lots of untouched nature. There are no big crowds, so private moments—like watching a sunset over a fjord or looking at stars—happen easily. This closeness makes your trip special.

Adventure Awaits at Every Turn

If you crave excitement, Iceland offers plenty of activities. Walk on a glacier, or snorkel in crystal-clear water at Silfra. From September to April, the Northern Lights illuminate the dark nights with green and purple hues. You can also explore ice caves or ride Icelandic horses. There’s always something fun to experience together.

Year-Round Magic, No Matter the Season

Iceland stays magical all year. Summer, from June to August, has long days with the sun shining almost all the time. It’s great for hiking or picnics by a lake. Winter, from September to March, brings snow, warm hot springs, and the Northern Lights. Every season feels romantic in its own way.

Cultural Charm with a Dash of Whimsy

Iceland’s culture is fun and unique. Old Viking stories tell of heroes, and local tales mention elves in the hills. In Reykjavik, the main city, colorful streets feature art, cafe music, and cozy coffee or hot chocolate places. This mix of history and creativity makes your trip vibrant.

Budget-Friendly Honeymoon Ideas

You don’t need lots of money to enjoy Iceland. Here’s how to plan a trip that’s affordable and still feels special, with tips on places to stay and how to get around.

Affordable Places to Stay

Guesthouses and Airbnb rentals are cozy and save money. In Reykjavik or towns like Akureyri, a room costs $80 to $150 a night. You might get wooden beams or a shared kitchen for a homey feel.

In the countryside, cabins near the Ring Road give you views of hills or glaciers for about the same price.

In summer, camping costs $20 to $50 a night. You can’t camp anywhere you want, but some campsites are set up in beautiful places. You can literally wake up to fjords, waterfalls, or lakes.

Getting Around on a Budget

Moving around Iceland can be simple and cheap.

Rent a small car for $45 to $100 a day and drive the Ring Road. Stop at waterfalls or beaches whenever you like.

If you don’t want to drive, bus tours from companies like Reykjavik Excursions cost $80 to $120 per person. They take you to the Golden Circle, with sights like geysers, waterfalls, and national parks. That way you can just sit back and enjoy.

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Budget-Friendly Activities for Your Iceland Honeymoon

Iceland is perfect for a honeymoon; many low-cost activities are enough to see its beauty and charm. Below are 10 options great for couples. We’ll also mention a few pricier activities—like glacier hiking and whale watching—which I encourage you to consider.

Visit Iceland’s Stunning Waterfalls

Iceland’s waterfalls are amazing and free to see. At Seljalandsfoss, you can walk behind the water for a romantic moment. Skógafoss has a strong flow and a short climb to a nice view. Bring a camera to capture these spots without spending anything.

Relax in Geothermal Pools

Soaking in warm water is a big part of Iceland, and it doesn’t have to cost much. The Secret Lagoon costs $30 per person, but it feels calm with nature all around. In Reykjavik, local pools cost $10 to $15 and have a friendly vibe. It’s a cozy way to relax after a long day.

Explore National Parks

Iceland’s national parks are free and full of beauty. Þingvellir National Park offers history and incredible landscapes, like the split between two tectonic plates. Vatnajökull National Park has glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanoes, which are great for a picnic or walk, and at Snæfellsjökull you can enjoy both the sea and the mountains.

Waterfall at Thinvellir National Park

Wander Through Reykjavik

Reykjavik has free things to enjoy. Hallgrímskirkja is a big church you can enter at no cost, though the tower view has a small fee. The Harpa Concert Hall looks stunning inside and out. Walk the colorful streets together and feel the city’s charm without spending.

Hike Scenic Trails

Hiking in Iceland is free and shows its wild side. The Reykjanes Peninsula has short paths through steaming vents and cliffs. The Laugavegur Trail, best in summer, is a longer walk through mountains and hot springs. The list of hikes is genuinely endless. Wear sturdy shoes and check the weather, as it can change fast.

Chase the Northern Lights

From September to April, the Northern Lights glow for free. Drive to a dark spot like Þingvellir or the Reykjanes Peninsula, bundle up, and wait for the colors to appear. It’s a romantic moment that just needs patience and a blanket.

Visit Museums for a Cultural Touch

Museums are affordable options to learn about Iceland’s past. The National Museum in Reykjavik, which covers Viking history and folklore, costs about $20 per person. Smaller places, like the Skógar Museum near Skógafoss, cost less. They’re good for rainy days and add meaning to your trip.

Explore Lava Fields

Iceland’s lava fields are free and look like from another world. Eldhraun has soft green moss, while Krafla has volcanoes and steam. Walk together and take photos, but stay on paths to protect the land.

Eldhraun

Relax on Black Sand Beaches

Reynisfjara Beach has black sand and tall rock columns. It’s a dramatic free spot by the sea. In summer, you can walk along the shore, watch the waves, and see puffins. Bring a picnic and watch out for sudden big waves.

Reynisfjara

Dip into Natural Hot Springs

Natural hot springs are free and truly Icelandic. Reykjadalur, an hour from Reykjavik, has a warm river after a medium walk, perfect for a swim together. Landmannalaugar has hot springs and colorful mountains nearby. Pack a swimsuit and towel.

Landmannalaugar Hot Springs

Witness the 2026 Eclipse

The 2026 eclipse is set to be one of the top events of the decade, and Iceland is one of the best places to experience it. Not only will the eclipse be more visible here, you get to witness it from some of the most incredible landscapes on earth.

Paid Activities That you Should Try

You can enjoy Iceland 100% relying only on free activities. I must admit, however, that some of the paid recommendations are a bit pricey. My advice: don’t miss your chance for a couple hundred dollars. Money comes and goes, but these might be once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

Glacier hiking costs $100 to $200 per person. You walk on old ice and see blue cracks and caves, something hard to find elsewhere. Whale watching tours cost $80 to $150 per person. You can see humpback whales, dolphins, and orcas near the coast.

Eating Well for Less

Eating in Iceland can be tasty and affordable. You don’t need to spend much to enjoy good food on your honeymoon. Pack a picnic or grab quick meals with these tips.

• Visit supermarkets like Bónus or Krónan. For $10 to $20, get bread, smoked salmon, and skyr (Icelandic yogurt) for a riverside picnic. It’s simple and romantic.
• In towns, try a pylsur, Iceland’s version of a hot dog, for $5. It comes with onions, mustard, and sauce. A bowl of fish soup at a cafe costs $10 and it’s great for the colder weather (which you’ll probably experience at some point)
• We always encourage healthy food, but a trip to Iceland is worth a few sacrifices. Metro has burgers, fries, and nuggets for $10 to $15. Aktu Taktu offers homemade burgers and fries for $8 to $12, with a Tuesday deal under $10. Domino’s Pizza costs $12 to $20, and Subway subs start at $7 to $11. These spots are easy to find in Reykjavik and the main cities in Iceland.

Luxury Honeymoon Ideas

Want to go all out? Iceland is an excellent destination for those looking for a more luxurious experience, as it’s often the case with honeymoons. From state-of-the-art accommodation to private tours and fancy restaurants, Iceland has it all.

Fancy Places to Stay

Iceland’s luxury hotels are as impressive as its landscapes. The Ion Adventure Hotel is near Þingvellir and has a chill Scandinavian feel, with big windows. It offers you the chance to see lava fields, and private hot tubs to keep you warm. It’s $400 to $800 a night.

Looking for something even more dreamy? The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is all about calm and fancy vibes. Its rooms open to private hot pools surrounded by mossy rocks. It costs $500 to $1,000 a night, but if you have the money it’s a hard-to-beat experience.

For something different, check out the Bubble Hotel’s glass igloos. For $300 to $600 a night, you can sleep under the stars or Northern Lights, cozy in soft beds with nature right outside.

Upscale Ways to Move Around

Getting around can be fun too. Hire a driver for $200 to $500 a day. This makes roaming around Iceland relaxing and educational, as most drivers are usually travel guides with lots of local knowledge.

Want to drive yourself? Rent a nice 4x4 for $150 to $300 a day. It’s great for exploring the Highlands or cliffs whenever you want.

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Luxury Activities for Your Iceland Honeymoon

Iceland is all about fire, ice, and raw nature. It has big glaciers, steamy hot pools, and volcano landscapes. Although nature is free to enjoy, some of the best (and most thrilling and unique) things to do here come with a cost. A mix of free and paid activities is probably the best way to enjoy your time here.

Private Blue Lagoon Spa Time

Relax at the Blue Lagoon Retreat Spa with a couple’s deal, $200 to $400 each. You get massages, mud masks, and private dips in warm, blue water surrounded by cool lava rocks. It’s a chill way to enjoy Iceland’s hot springs with top-notch pampering.

Glacier Hike on Langjökull

Take a private hike on Langjökull glacier, $300 to $600 per person. You and your guide explore shiny blue cracks and secret ice caves at your own pace. It’s a cool, private way to see Iceland’s icy side.

Snowmobile Fun on Vatnajökull

Experience the thrill of zooming across Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, on a private snowmobile adventure. Prices are between $300 and $600 per person. A guide will lead you over icy fields, offering breathtaking views of towering peaks and volcanoes. It’s an exciting and luxurious way to explore the frozen landscape.

Yacht Whale-Watching Trip

Rent a private yacht for whale watching for $500 to $1,000 for two. Enjoy champagne while spotting whales, orcas, and dolphins along Iceland’s rugged coastline, with cliffs in the background. It’s a romantic and luxurious way of experiencing one of the top activities here. If you want to see whales but don’t want to pay that much, you can do a tour with more people for $100-$150.

Helicopter Ride Over Volcanoes

Fly over Iceland in a private helicopter, $1,000 to $2,000 for two. You’ll see craters, glaciers, and waterfalls from above. It’s an amazing, special way to check out the island’s wild land.

Northern Lights Hunt

Chase the Northern Lights with a private guide, $300 to $500 for two. You’ll head to the best spots with hot drinks and blankets away from crowds, watching green lights dance in the sky. It’s cozy and feels exclusive, as you’re in remote places with no one around.

Horseback Ride on Black Sand

Experience horseback riding along Reynisfjara’s black sand beach for $200 to $400 per person. You’ll trot past stunning rock columns and crashing waves with a guide, soaking in the captivating scenery on Iceland’s sturdy little horses. It’s a charming and romantic way to see the coast.

Ice Cave Adventure

Explore Vatnajökull’s ice caves on a private tour for $400 to $700 per person. You and a guide go into blue tunnels and caves, where it’s quiet and the light is unreal. It’s a rare, cozy trip into Iceland’s icy world.

Hot Spring Day at Hvammsvík

Book a private time at Hvammsvík Hot Springs, $150 to $300 each. It’s a beautiful hot spring complex with ocean views. Add a massage or facial, and relax in a steamy sauna by the fjord. It’s a fancy way to enjoy Iceland’s hot water and chill out.

Gourmet Dining Options in Reykjavik

Iceland’s food scene is full of surprises, mixing local ingredients with fun ideas. These restaurants offer fancy meals with different tastes, prices, and vibes, making every dinner special.

Dill: Fancy Icelandic Food

• Location: Hverfisgata 12, Reykjavik
• Cuisine: New Nordic with local, seasonal stuff
• Price: $100–$200 per person (seven-course meal)
• What to Expect: Yummy lamb with wild herbs or fresh cod with veggies in a cozy, nice spot.
• Special Features: Wine pairing option, private room.
• Good to Know: Book early—it’s popular! Tell them it’s a special occasion for extra fun.

Perfect if you like creative, local food in a small, warm place.

Kolabrautin: Seafood with Views

• Location: Harpa Concert Hall, by the harbor
• Cuisine: Italian-Icelandic mix, lots of seafood
• Price: $150–$300 for two
• What to Expect: Lobster pasta or grilled langoustine with awesome harbor views—super pretty at sunset.
• Special Features: Great wines, cool cocktails, best seats by the windows..
• Good to Know: Ask for a window table; lunch is cheaper. 

A romantic spot with tasty seafood and a great location.

Matur og Drykkur: Classic Icelandic with a Twist

• Location: Grandagarður 2, Reykjavik
• Cuisine: Old Icelandic dishes made new
• Price: $80–$150 per person (multi-course meal)
• What to Expect: Fun stuff like lamb soup or cod head in a cozy, old building.
• Special Features: Changes with the seasons, wine options.
• Good to Know: Great for trying lots of flavors—small plates help!

A fun, fancy way to taste Iceland’s food history.

Fish Company: Seafood in a Cozy Spot

• Location: Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavik
• Cuisine: Seafood with an Icelandic touch
• Price: $100–$200 for two
• What to Expect: Grilled salmon or seafood platters in a candlelit stone room.
• Special Features: Lots of lobster and scallops, outdoor seats in summer.
• Good to Know: Perfect for seafood fans who want a warm, cozy vibe. Charming with awesome seafood.

Dining in Akureyri: The North’s Food Spot

Akureyri, the biggest town up north, has a bunch of dining options, from fancy to cozy. Here are the best ones:

Strikið: Casual but Fancy

• Location: Hafnarstræti 98, Akureyri
• Cuisine: Icelandic with Asian and South American twists
• What to Expect: On the fifth floor with fjord and mountain views, you’ll find salmon ceviche, sushi, or reindeer sliders. Try the four-course “History of Iceland” menu for a big taste.
• Vibe: Mix of chill and fancy, with a terrace for nice days.
• Price: $50–$100 per person
• Why It’s Special: Fun food with killer views—fancy but easygoing.

Rub23: Seafood and Sushi

• Location: Kaupvangsstræti 6, Akureyri
• Cuisine: Seafood, sushi, Icelandic stuff
• What to Expect: Fresh fish rolls, tuna, and smoky scallops—all local and tasty.
• Vibe: Trendy and relaxed, great for a chill fancy meal.
• Price: $40–$80 per person
• Why It’s Special: A yummy seafood spot with Iceland’s ocean flavors.

Eyja: Cozy Wine Spot

• Location: Hafnarstræti 92, Akureyri
• Cuisine: Icelandic and global small plates
• What to Expect: Smoked lamb or grilled prawns with tons of wine choices.
• Vibe: Warm and small, great for a laid-back night.
• Price: $30–$60 per person
• Why It’s Special: Cozy and tasty—perfect for sharing.

Dining in Vik

Vik is a little town on the south coast where you’ll probably stay or spend the day, as it’s super close to some of the best attractions in the area. Although small, Vík has some nice and yummy restaurants.

Sudur Vik: Fish and Warmth

• Location: Suðurvegur 1, Vik
• Cuisine: Icelandic, with seafood and lamb
• What to Expect: Famous pan-fried Arctic char, plus lamb and homemade desserts like brownies.
• Vibe: Rustic and cozy with wood inside.
• Price: $40–$70 per person
• Why It’s Special: Comfort food with local stuff—great after exploring.

Berg Restaurant: Seafood and Views

• Location: Suðurvegur 1, Vik (inside Hotel Katla)
• Cuisine: Icelandic seafood and more
• What to Expect: Fresh langoustine, cod, or salmon, plus lamb and veggie options, with mountain views.
• Vibe: Modern and bright, but still cozy.
• Price: $50–$90 per person
• Why It’s Special: Tasty meals with pretty scenery—a nice touch of fancy.

Dining in Húsavik: Old Vibes and Fresh Fish

Húsavik is another small fishing-village, famous for its whale watching.

Gamli Baukur: Classic Icelandic

• Location: Hafnarbraut 1, Húsavik
• Cuisine: Traditional Icelandic, mostly seafood
• What to Expect: Seafood soup, grilled lamb, or fresh cod with sea views in an old harbor building.
• Vibe: Cozy and rustic with wood and sea charm.
• Price: $40–$80 per person
• Why It’s Special: A yummy meal in a cool, old spot.

Naustið: Family Seafood

• Location: Naustagarður 2, Húsavik
• Cuisine: Seafood and Icelandic dishes
• What to Expect: Seafood platters with lobster, shrimp, and salmon, plus smoked lamb at a family-run place.
• Vibe: Casual and warm with big, fresh meals.
• Price: $30–$60 per person
• Why It’s Special: Friendly vibes and great seafood.

Planning Tips for Any Budget

These tips work no matter how much you’re spending—they’ll help you enjoy Iceland your way.

When to Go

When you go affects your trip. Summer (June to August) is mild (50–60°F) with daylight all the time—great for long drives or late picnics. Winter (September to March) is cold (20–30°F) but has Northern Lights and cheaper prices—perfect for cozy getaways. Iceland’s awesome any time.

What to Pack

The weather here is completely unpredictable, so pack smart. A waterproof jacket and pants (like Columbia or Patagonia) will keep you dry from rain or waterfalls. Layer up with warm clothes like thermals, fleece, and wool socks—even in summer. Bring swimsuits for hot springs, too.

Booking Advice

Iceland is becoming increasingly popular, so plan ahead. Flights from the US to Keflavik are $400 to $800 round trip. Book your stay, tours, and rental car early to get what you want at good prices.

Conclusion

Iceland has natural beauty, calm romance, and plenty of adventure for a honeymoon you won’t forget. You can keep it simple with free hikes and small guesthouses or go all out with glass igloos and nice meals—either way, it’s a place that makes the kind of memories you want for your honeymoon. Your trip is out there waiting.