Iceland Holidays

For Irish holidaymakers, Iceland is just a short hop away. With direct flights from Dublin and Cork taking just under 3 hours, you can land in a whole new world in less time than it takes to drive from Dublin to Cork. Because of its nearness it's a fantastic destination for a long weekend away, or, if you prefer, an even longer journey of discovery and adventure.  

With less than 400,000 inhabitants, the island is sparsely populated, leaving a whole world of spectacular natural beauty to enjoy, without the crowds. Also, Iceland is one the safest countries in the world, meaning you can travel there with complete peace of mind. 

The first rule of Iceland is that the season you choose to visit will most likely define your entire holiday. Visiting in the summer months means endless daylight under the midnight sun, fantastic for epic road trips, the thrill of watching giant whales breach before your very eyes, hiking in alien landscapes, or exploring the country's coastline and otherworldly interior.  

It's worth knowing that under the old Norse calendar, Iceland only had two seasons; summer, and winter, both lasting six months each. Still, there are only four months in the year - June to September - when it's unlikely to experience a fall of snow. Typically, in summer in the island's capital, Reykjavik, daytime temperatures (during June, July, and August) hover between 14-15°C and drop to 7-8°C in the evenings.  

If you're lucky enough (or clever enough) to travel in mid-June, you'll get to experience the land of the midnight sun, where it never truly gets dark. For photographers - or anyone with a camera or a smart phone - the images you capture will amaze your friends back home. 

Once winter sets in, you trade the green valleys for snow-dusted lava fields and the best chance to see the Northern Lights dance across dark, starry skies. Between October and March the outside temperatures range between 0.6°C and 4.9°C, but, it's worth noting that they can fall a lot lower, so be prepared. It's also worth nothing, that outside the city of Reykjavik, especially when touring the country in winter, temperatures may be a lot colder. 

If you're properly kitted out for the experience, Iceland is in winter is a must for the active holidaymakers. It’s a paradise of glacier hikes (or snowmobile rides), volcanic valley tours, exploring ice caves, soaking in geothermal pools at every turn, and of course witnessing the Northern Lights shimmer in the clear winter skies.  

But, even if you're not a rugged outdoor explorer, and prefer you winters warm and cosy, Iceland has its own particular brand of warmth to offer. Reykjavík is a hub of quirky design, world-class cuisine, and Viking history, all served with that famously friendly, no-nonsense Icelandic charm. There are plenty of quirky bars and cafes, with welcoming fires, hearty meals, mugs of hot cocoa, or delicious dark beers to help create a welcome winter glow. 

For getting around the island, and exploring the highlands, a 4x4 vehicle is essential in winter. However, there are also guided bus tours which can reduce the cost - but limit your experiences to the most popular on offer (still incredible). But, if it's your first time in Iceland, that's not a bad way to whet your appetite and leave you wanting to return for more. 

Whenever you decide to visit, be sure to book your accommodation and popular tours (like ice caving or the Blue Lagoon) well in advance, especially in summer. Learn to embrace the Icelandic saying “þetta reddast” - meaning “it will all work out”, a phrase the perfectly describes Icelanders' easy-going, laid-back attitude and great sense of humour. 

Whether you're dreaming of standing behind the spray of a gushing waterfall in summer, watching geysers erupt from the earth, seeing a whale breach the sea's surface on a guided tour, or hunting for the Northern Lights, Iceland is a profoundly beautiful and refreshingly straightforward adventure.  

If you're ready to experience the land of sagas and spectacular landscapes, why not let the experts at Cassidy Travel handle the details, while you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. 

For a country that looks so big on the world map, Iceland is wonderfully manageable for a short break. Even with four or five days, you can experience its greatest hits and still find moments of uniquely pure magic. The key is to embrace the elements and let curiosity be your guide.  

A good idea is to start your visit to Iceland with the Island's touristic classics - remember, they’re famous for a very good reason.  

The Golden Circle is a perfect first-day adventure, delivering thunderous waterfalls, erupting geysers, and the chance to walk between the earth's moving tectonic plates at Þingvellir. For families, this is an effortless, awe-inspiring introduction - Iceland is a geography lesson like no other.  

In winter, your nightly mission is hunting the Northern Lights. Probably the best way of doing this successfully is to join a guided minibus tour - the guide's expertise and ability to chase clear skies will hugely  increase your chances of seeing the aurora dance and shimmer above your head. Something worth remembering is the Northern Lights can sometimes look clearer when captured through the lens of a camera. 

For active holidaymakers, glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull or a guided ice cave tour are truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences that can make you feel like a real explorer in the unknown.  

For a more relaxed immersion into nature, no trip to Iceland is complete without a soak in one of the country's many thermal pools. A good idea is to skip the crowded (and pricey) Blue Lagoon and head to the Secret Lagoon, or better yet, visit a local community thermal swimming pool like Sundhöllin in Reykjavík for an authentic, affordable dip with the locals.  

If you visit Iceland with an open-mind, your curiosity will be rewarded with totally unique experiences. Taste the local flavours, like plokkfiskur (creamy fish stew), sample fermented shark if you dare, and enjoy the world-class rye bread baked underground using geothermal heat. For a quirky evening, explore Reykjavik's cosy cocktail bars and vibrant live music scene - the Capital is surprisingly buzzing for such a small city.  

And don’t overlook the simple, free attractions. A walk along the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (while respecting the powerful waves) or a stroll through Reykjanes Geopark near the airport are utterly memorable - and Instagrammable. For another unique perspective of Iceland, consider a helicopter tour over the island's volcanoes or enjoy the open-air thrill of a snowmobile ride across a sparkling white glacier field - it really is something you'll probably never forget.  

And remember, Iceland is not a summer hotspot, the weather is part of the adventure.  

Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy boots for walking, not just for hiking. Book popular tours in advance, but leave room for a little spontaneity - a random hot spring or a friendly cafe can easily become one of the highlights of your trip.  

Iceland isn’t just a place you see, it’s a place you feel, if you let your curiosity lead the way. 

Iceland isn’t just dotted with natural wonders; it's made of them. This is a land where the earth breathes steam, rivers carve paths through ancient ice, and the landscape shifts with a raw, palpable energy.  

For visitors, the incredible thing is how accessible these incredible sights are - many are just a short stroll from the main road, allowing you to witness pure, unfiltered geological power without effort.  

Here are just some of the most popular natural wonders that form the backbone of any Icelandic adventure. 

• Geysir - The original hot spring that gave its name to all others. While the Great Geysir sleeps, its neighbour Strokkur puts on a reliable show, erupting a column of scalding water 20-30 metres into the air every 5-10 minutes.  
• Gullfoss (The Golden Falls) - A gushing cataract of immense power, where the Hvítá river plunges into a deep, mist-shrouded canyon. On sunny days, rainbows dance in the spray, so make sure your camera is charged.  
• Þingvellir National Park - A site of profound historical and geological interest. Here, you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in the Almannagjá rift valley, amidst the site of the world’s oldest surviving parliament.  
• Vatnajökull Glacier - Europe’s largest ice cap, covering 8% of the island. This isn’t just ice, it’s a world of hidden volcanoes, crystal ice caves, and breathtaking outlet glaciers like Svínafellsjökull and Skaftafell.  
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - A peaceful yet surreal lake dotted with luminous blue and white icebergs calved from Vatnajökull. Seals often swim amongst the floating ice before they drift out to the nearby Diamond Beach.  
• Snæfellsjökull - The iconic, glacier-capped stratovolcano that dominates the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It's believed to be one of Earth’s great energy centres. It’s a place of great beauty and the gateway to Jules Verne’s ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’.  
• Landmannalaugar - A hiker’s paradise in the Highlands, renowned for its rhyolite mountains in a rainbow of colours, natural geothermal hot springs, and trails that weave through an obsidian lava field.  
• Lake Mývatn - This volcanic wonderland in the north, features surreal pseudocraters, bubbling mud pots at Námaskarð, the dramatic Dimmuborgir lava formations, and the mineral-rich, azure waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths.  
• Húsavík - This place is often called Europe’s whale watching capital. The nutrient-rich waters of Skjálfandi Bay provide a chance to see humpbacks, blue, and minke whales from a traditional oak boat.  
• The Blue Lagoon - The world-famous geothermal spa set in a stark black lava field. Its milky, mineral-rich, azure waters offer a luxurious and rejuvenating soak, making it a top Icelandic experience.  
• The Sky Lagoon - Reykjavík’s newest geothermal escape. Its stunning infinity pool overlooks the Atlantic and is complemented by a holistic seven-step traditional Icelandic bathing ritual.  
• Hallgrímskirkja - While not a natural wonder, this iconic church is a man-made landmark inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava flows. Its concrete facade and central tower offer the best views over Reykjavík city. 

Icelandic culture is a totally fascinating story of resilience and creativity that have been shaped by the island's wild elements along with a rich literary heritage.  

To experience it fully, it's probably best to remember the Icelandic concept of þetta reddast - “it will all work out.” This notion is your key to enjoying the country’s unique rhythm, where plans might shift with the weather, but a better adventure often awaits just around the corner. For Irish visitors it's a bit like the idea 'sure it'll be grand'. 

For anyone with a curiosity for food, Iceland is an adventure in itself.  

You might want to try a bowl of hearty kjötsúpa (lamb soup) after a chilly day outdoors, buttery rúgbrauð (dark rye bread) baked using geothermal heat, and the creamy, dairy favourite, skyr. If you're a bit more adventurous when it comes to food, you can try the bold, hakarl (fermented shark) a totally traditional and unique taste of Iceland - it's best followed by a shot of Brennivín schnapps.  

In modern Iceland, Reykjavík’s food scene is based on innovation. Don't miss the vibrant Hlemmur Mathöll or Grandi Mathöll food halls for everything from fresh lobster rolls to vegan delights, showcasing how local ingredients are transformed into almost magical taste sensations.  

Iceland's culture is crafted from the country's ancient sagas mixed with modern expression. Just like in Ireland of old you can see this mixture in the respect for the hidden folk (elves) that still influence road designs to this day.  

It can also be felt in the powerful music that crosses genres from haunting folk music to global musical acts like Sigur Rós and Björk, and in the cutting-edge art at museums like the Reykjavík Art Museum.  

The annual Þjóðhátíð festival in the Westman Islands is a massive, singing celebration of Iceland's national spirit, while the Reykjavík International Film Festival and Iceland Airwaves music festival showcase the nation's modern creative scene.  

For genuine local experiences, skip the expensive bottled water - it's said that Iceland’s tap water is the purest you’ll ever taste. Join locals at a public swimming pool like Sundhöllin or Laugardalslaug; these geothermal social hubs - where you're required to take a pre-soak shower - are the true heart of any community.  

In winter, chase the Northern Lights with a knowledgeable guide who shares the folklore, and in summer, experience the surreal energy of the midnight sun on a quiet hike or during a round of golf at 11 PM - yes, there are golf courses in Iceland.  

Visit a family-run horse farm to meet the unique, gentle Icelandic horse - a relative of the Connemara pony - and learn about their special tölt gait.  

For deeper Icelandic experiences, attend a ‘Söngvakeppnin’ live show to feel the national passion for music, or browse the cosy, eclectic vinyl shops in downtown Reykjavík.  

These real moments of connection with the Icelandic people, and their culture, are a long way from the busy tourist itineraries. They reveal the true warmth, creativity, and never-say-die spirit of this unique island and it's friendly and welcoming people. 

Planning a holiday to Iceland is a little different than planning a holiday to a sun destination - that means you can probably ditch the sandals. Iceland is a unique destination that requires unique planning, nothing to get worried about, but you have think a little differently.  

Ok, so first up, when to go? It’s all about what you want to see. If you fancy 24-hour daylight and easier driving, try to aim for June to August - also the busiest months.  

If it's a chance to see the Northern Lights and snowy landscapes you're after, October to March is your perfect window. Regardless of when you decide to go, both of these times of year offer their own unique experiences. 

Booking ahead is probably a great idea. With a population of less than 400,000, Iceland doesn't have the huge touristic infrastructures of the Canary Islands or Spain's Costas. However, the infrastructure that exists is of the highest quality. 

Another reason to book in advance is because Iceland is popular, and for good reasons too. Once your flights are sorted (and from Ireland, they’re short and sweet), get your big-ticket activities and experiences locked in. That means your car rental (a 4x4 is a good idea for winter or highland roads), your accommodation, and any big tours you have your heart set on, like a glacier hike or a special Blue Lagoon slot. Leaving it to the last minute can mean missing out or paying a lot more.  

And don't forget, the Iceland experts at Cassidy Travel will be happy to help you with any questions you might have. 

So, what do you pack for an Iceland holiday. Regardless of the time of year, the golden rule is layers, layers, and more layers. The weather in Iceland can do four seasons in just one hour (something we're well used to in Ireland). A good waterproof and windproof jacket is worth its weight in gold. Don’t forget a swimsuit - you’ll need it for all those amazing hot pools - and you'll definitely need a pair of sturdy hiking boots or shoes with a good grip. Even if you don't see yourself hiking a volcano or a glacier, the landscape demands the best footwear you can afford. 

Iceland is so beautiful and so dramatic that you will take a lot of photographs - that's a guarantee. So, you're going to need a power bank to make sure that your phone or camera is always ready to capture another unforgettable image or video. 

When it comes to budgeting, you probably already know that Iceland isn’t the cheapest holiday in the world, but it worth every cent. That's why a visit to Iceland is on so many people's bucket list of global travel destinations. You pay for what you get.  

Iceland uses the Icelandic Króna (1 Euro equals approx. 145 Icelandic Króna), so keep this mind when reading menus or making purchases. 

Eating and drinking out can add up fast, however, a great money-saving trick is to hit the local supermarket for picnic lunches and snacks, and maybe bring your own tea or coffee. Also, remember that you don’t need to buy water here - just bring a reusable bottle and top it up from any tap. It’s the best water in the world, and it’s free.  

The weather might change your plans, but that’s okay, be ready for those changes if and when they happen. Be like an Icelander and adopt the "þetta reddast" (it’ll all work out) outlook on your experience, that way you won't be disappointed with whatever is thrown at you. 

If you're travelling from Ireland, don't forget to pack a type C adaptor for electrical devices. Iceland uses Northern European standards and Europlug sockets - the ones with two round prongs that operate on a 230V supply. Just remember to check the labels on your devices to make sure you don't also need a power convertor. 

And last, but not least, be ready for the adventure of a lifetime, pack your sense of humour, and get set for a trip you’ll never forget.