Top 9 Things To Do in Selfoss

Discover the best things to do in Selfoss and see why this town deserves more than just a quick stop on your journey. Known as the largest town in South Iceland, Selfoss offers practical services for travelers and an inviting local culture that rewards a longer stay.

Selfoss sits on the banks of the Olfusa River and is home to about 10,000 people. Its location puts it on the path of South Coast tours and self-drive tours around the country.

The town is often included in extended itineraries, such as a winter self-drive of the South Coast and Snaefellsnes Peninsula or extended Golden Circle tours. It also provides supermarkets, fuel stations, and restaurants for those stocking up before heading into more remote areas.

But Selfoss is more than a service stop. Recent renovations have created a lively town center, while its riverside setting adds character. Combined with nearby natural attractions, it’s a destination worth slowing down for rather than simply passing through.

Key Takeaways

• Selfoss is the main town in South Iceland and a practical base for exploring the Golden Circle and South Coast.

• The town has local attractions and food highlights, such as the Skyrland Exhibition, Pylsuvagninn Hot Dog Stand, and Isbud Huppu Ice Cream Shop.

• Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like riverside walks, nearby hikes, swimming in pools, and day trips to waterfalls.

• Seasonal highlights include northern lights in winter and the Summer in Selfoss festival in August.

9. Visit Selfosskirkja Church

Selfosskirkja is the town’s main church and one of its most recognizable landmarks in Selfoss. It stands close to the Olfusa River, so you can easily combine a visit here with a riverside walk.

The church was built in 1952 and is known for its simple concrete design and tall clock tower. The style reflects mid-20th-century Icelandic architecture, with clean lines and modest decoration. Inside, the atmosphere is calm and bright, offering visitors a quiet space for reflection.

Even if you do not plan to attend a service, Selfosskirkja is worth a stop. The church is a good place to take photos of the tower against the sky and to get a sense of the community life in Selfoss.

8. Take a Walk by the Olfusa River

The Olfusa River runs straight through the town of Selfoss. It is the largest river in Iceland by volume, carrying meltwater from the glaciers Hofsjokull and Langjokull. The Olfusa begins where the rivers Hvita and Sog meet, just before the town.

The Olfusarbru Bridge over the Olfusa is one of the most important landmarks in Selfoss. Built in 1891, it was among the first suspension bridges in Iceland. It linked Reykjavik with South Iceland and helped Selfoss grow from farmland into the region’s main hub.

A walking path follows the riverbank, which is a peaceful place for an afternoon stroll. It is also a good spot to take photos, with wide views of the water and the surrounding landscape. Fishing is common here too, with salmon being the most prized catch.

7. Explore the Icelandic Turf House

The Icelandic Turf House in Selfoss is a small heritage museum that shows how Icelanders lived before modern housing. The site includes turf buildings with grassy roofs and exhibitions that display photographs, models, and explanations of how these homes were built.

Turf houses in Iceland were once common because they provided insulation and warmth during long, harsh winters. Built with soil, stone, and wood, they were both practical and sustainable at a time when building materials were limited.

6. Visit the Bobby Fischer Center

The Bobby Fischer Center in Selfoss is a small museum dedicated to the American chess champion. Bobby Fischer became World Chess Champion in 1972 after defeating Soviet grandmaster Boris Spassky in Reykjavik. It was a match that symbolized the Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Fischer returned to Iceland in 2005, when the country granted him citizenship after his detention in Japan. He lived near Selfoss until he died in 2008, and his grave is at Laugardaelir Cemetery, a short drive from town.

Inside the museum, visitors can see photographs, original score sheets, and a replica of the chessboard from the 1972 World Championship. 

5. Relax at the Selfoss Swimming Pool

The Selfoss Swimming Pool is a classic Icelandic public pool located in the center of town, within walking distance of shops and restaurants. It offers a chance to enjoy the bathing culture in Iceland without the higher cost of spas and hot springs.

The indoor facilities include a gym, a children’s pool, and a 59-foot (18-meter) swimming pool. Outside, you will find a larger 82-foot (25-meter) pool, a shallow wading pool, and a children’s area with three slides. There are also hot tubs, a steam room, a sauna, and a cold plunge.

Travel tip: If you plan to visit the local pool, remember that swimming pool etiquette in Iceland requires showering without a swimsuit before entering. This custom is followed everywhere in the country to keep the water clean.

4. Enjoy Ice Cream at Isbud Huppu

Ice cream in Iceland is a year-round favorite, even in the middle of winter. Families often go out for a cone on weekends, and it’s common to see people lining up while snow is falling.

The tradition has a modern highlight in Isbud Huppu in Selfoss, which opened in 2013 as the original shop of the chain. It quickly became known for soft-serve made with Icelandic milk, offering classic vanilla or cream flavors with a wide choice of toppings and mix-ins.

Today, Isbud Huppu has expanded across Iceland, but the Selfoss ice cream shop remains the most popular stop and a must-visit for travelers driving the Ring Road.

3. Try a Hot Dog at Pylsuvagninn

Hot dogs in Iceland are a staple street food. While Baejarins Beztu is the country’s most famous stand, Pylsuvagninn in Selfoss is the best-known hot dog stand outside Reykjavik. Open since 1984, it has become a favorite stop for both locals and travelers, and it’s common to see cars lined up at the drive-through, especially on weekends.

An Icelandic hot dog is made from a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, which gives it a distinct taste. The classic version comes with raw onions, crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade, a mayonnaise-based sauce with herbs and capers.

Unlike most hot dog stands, Pylsuvagninn also offers creative twists on the classic. You can try versions topped with potato salad, garlic sauce, or even crushed Doritos. For those who want something different, the menu also includes sandwiches and burgers.

2. Explore the New Old Town

The New Old Town in Selfoss has transformed the center of town into a cultural hub. More than 30 buildings were reconstructed in the style of traditional Icelandic architecture. The project is ongoing, and the district continues to grow with new additions.

This part of Main Street is the best place for shopping in Selfoss, with craft stores such as Handverksskurinn, where local artisans sell handmade goods. You will also find some of the best restaurants in Selfoss here, including Tryggvaskali, one of the town’s oldest restaurants serving Icelandic cuisine.

At the heart of the district stands the Old Dairy, once a major supplier of milk for South Iceland and now home to a bustling food hall. Here you can sample dishes from multiple kitchens, enjoy a craft beer at Session Craft Bar, or try Icelandic skyr at the Skyrland Exhibition.

1. Discover the Skyrland Exhibition

Skyrland in Selfoss is a museum dedicated to skyr, Iceland’s most famous dairy product. Skyr has been part of Icelandic culture since the time of the first settlers. It is rich in protein and calcium, low in fat, and has become known as a healthy Icelandic superfood.

The exhibition is located inside the Old Dairy in the New Old Town. With a Skyrland admission ticket, a guide gives a short introduction before you explore the interactive displays on your own.

The exhibits trace Iceland’s history through the story of skyr, showing how it was made in the past and how it continues to be a staple today. A highlight of the visit is the Isey Skyr Bar, where you can sample different varieties of skyr.

Bonus: Top 5 Things To Do Near Selfoss

There are many things to do near Selfoss, including exploring historic coastal villages, visiting volcanic craters, and soaking in geothermal hot springs. The town’s location in South Iceland makes it close to both the Golden Circle and the South Coast, two of the country’s most popular sightseeing routes.

5. Visit the Coastal Villages of Eyrarbakki & Stokkseyri

The fishing villages of Eyrarbakki and Stokkseyri are about a 15-minute drive from Selfoss. Both are small, quiet towns by the sea, known for their preserved wooden houses and views of the Atlantic Coast.

In Eyrarbakki, the main attraction is the Arnessysla Folk Museum in Husid, South Iceland’s oldest wooden house, built in 1765. Another point of interest is the Eyrarbakki Church, a wooden structure that has stood since 1890.

Meanwhile, Stokkseyri is best known for Fjorubordid Restaurant, one of the top South Coast restaurants, famous for its lobster dishes. Just outside the village, you can also visit Knarraros Lighthouse, a blend of functionalist and Art Nouveau design that stands out along the South Coast.

4. See the Kerid Crater

The Kerid Crater is one of the most striking natural attractions near Selfoss. This volcanic crater is about 180 feet (55 meters) deep and filled with a vivid blue lake, surrounded by red and green slopes that change color with the seasons. It is located just 15 minutes from Selfoss along the Golden Circle Route.

Visitors can walk along the rim for sweeping views or follow a path down to the water’s edge for a closer look. The crater is accessible year-round, though conditions can be slippery in winter.

The Kerid entrance fee of about 605 ISK (5 USD) helps maintain the paths and facilities. Its location on the Golden Circle makes Kerid a convenient addition to a day trip from Selfoss.

3. Drive the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route, and Selfoss is one of the best towns to start from. The loop covers about 190 miles (300 kilometers) and takes in three of the country’s most iconic attractions:

• Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

• Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to bubbling hot springs and the Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every 5 to 10 minutes.

• Gullfoss Waterfall: A two-tiered cascade that is among Iceland’s most powerful and visited waterfalls.

There is no entrance fee for these natural attractions, but parking at Thingvellir costs about 1,000 ISK (7 USD) for cars with up to 5 seats and 1,200 ISK (9 USD) for vehicles with 6 to 9 seats.

Driving the Golden Circle takes around 6 to 8 hours, including time for stops at the main sights and other attractions along the way, such as Kerid Crater. Roads are paved, well-maintained, and accessible year-round.

Many travelers use rental cars and drive the loop themselves, but guided tours are also available from Reykjavik. Either way, starting from Selfoss saves time, since the town is closer to the route than the capital.

2. Explore the South Coast

The South Coast of Iceland is one of the country’s most scenic regions, and Selfoss is a convenient starting point for a day trip. The main road follows the coast, leading to several of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions:

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: A 200-foot (60-meter) cascade where visitors can walk behind the curtain of water in summer.

• Skogafoss Waterfall: Another 200-foot (60-meter) waterfall with a wide, thunderous flow and a staircase that leads to views from above.

• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Near the town of Vik, known for its dramatic basalt columns, sea stacks, and powerful Atlantic waves.

The drive from Selfoss to Vik takes about two hours each way, but most travelers spend a full day exploring the sights along the route. Roads are paved and accessible year-round, though conditions can be icy in winter.

There is no entrance fee for these natural sites, but parking costs apply at Seljalandsfoss (about 1,000 ISK or 6 USD per standard car). Facilities such as cafes and restrooms are available at the major stops.

1. Hike to Reykjadalur Hot Spring River

Reykjadalur offers one of the best outdoor experiences near Selfoss. It’s just outside the town of Hveragerdi, about 20 minutes from Selfoss. From here, you can hike to Reykjadalur Valley and Hot Springs. It passes mud pools, steam vents, and geothermal hillsides before ending at a warm river.

The hike to the hot spring river takes about 45 to 60 minutes each way, depending on pace and weather. The trail is about 2 miles (3 kilometers) long with moderate uphill sections, and conditions can be muddy or icy outside of summer.

For a different experience, you can also join a horse riding tour of Reykjadalur Valley. It combines Icelandic horseback riding with sweeping views of the geothermal landscape before relaxing in the hot river.

Bathing in the river is free, and there are wooden platforms where you can change clothes. Parking at the trailhead costs 200 ISK (1.50 USD) for 15 to 60 minutes and 250 ISK (2 USD) for each additional hour. Restrooms are available only at the parking lot.

Things To Know When Travelling to Selfoss

Before you plan your trip, it helps to understand a few basics about Selfoss, Iceland. Many travelers wonder if Selfoss is a town or a waterfall, how to get there, and where to stay or eat once they arrive. Knowing these details in advance makes it easier to include Selfoss in your Iceland itinerary.

Is Selfoss a Town or a Waterfall?

Selfoss is both a town in South Iceland and a waterfall in North Iceland. The town is about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Reykjavik, while Selfoss Waterfall lies over 500 kilometers (310 miles) away near Dettifoss Waterfall. Driving between them takes around seven hours.

Travelers often confuse the two when searching for “Selfoss Iceland.” If you are using GPS for directions, double-check the location to avoid a very long detour.  

How To Get to Selfoss

Selfoss is 37 miles (60 kilometers) from Reykjavik and 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Keflavik International Airport. The town is also just south of the Golden Circle Route, so it is easy to reach by car or bus.

From Reykjavik

• By car: Driving takes around 50 minutes along Route 1 (Ring Road). Rental cars are available in Downtown Reykjavik and at Reykjavik Domestic Airport.

• By bus: The public bus Straeto Route 51 runs from Reykjavik’s Mjodd Terminal to Selfoss, covering the same distance in about 70 to 80 minutes. A one-way ticket costs about 2,500 ISK (18 USD).

From Keflavik International Airport

• By car: Around 90 minutes. Rental cars are available directly at the airport.

• By bus: There is no direct bus from Keflavik to Selfoss. Travelers need to take an airport shuttle to Reykjavik (usually to the BSI Terminal) and then connect to Straeto Route 51 from the Mjodd Bus Terminal.

Where To Stay in Selfoss

Selfoss has hotels and guesthouses, so travelers can find options for every budget. As the largest town in South Iceland, it is a convenient base for visiting both the Golden Circle and the South Coast.

• Hotel Selfoss: A 4-star hotel in central Selfoss with a geothermal spa, essential amenities, and river views.

• Hotel South Coast: Another 4-star hotel in the town center with large rooms and a modern spa.

• 360 Hotel: A luxury hotel about 15 minutes from Selfoss, featuring panoramic countryside views, a lounge bar, and fine dining.

• Klettar Tower Guesthouse: A unique tower-style guesthouse that offers an offbeat but upscale stay near Selfoss.

Top Restaurants in Selfoss

Travelers will find some of the best restaurants in Selfoss, offering everything from fresh seafood and modern Icelandic cuisine to casual cafes and burger joints. Here are the top options:

• Mar Seafood: A riverside restaurant known for excellent seafood dishes such as Arctic char and lobster, as well as premium meat options.

• Old Dairy Food Hall (Mjolkurbuid Matholl): Brings together multiple kitchens under one roof, serving street food, international dishes, and drinks from a wine and craft beer bar.

• Lilly & Julia’s Kitchen: A cozy setting with a seasonal menu that blends Icelandic and international flavors.

• Tryggvaskali: Serves classic Icelandic cuisine, including lamb and trout, in one of the oldest riverside buildings in Selfoss.

• Krisp Restaurant: A modern casual-fine spot across from Hotel Selfoss, offering creative dishes inspired by both local and global cuisine.

• Kaffi Krus: A cafe-restaurant in a renovated house, popular for comfort food, pizzas, burgers, and homemade cakes.

• Froken Selfoss: Highlights local ingredients in a modern yet relaxed dining atmosphere.

• Byrja: A casual restaurant that is especially good for breakfast and brunch, with wraps, soups, and burgers on the menu.

• Tommi’s Burger Joint: An American-style burger place near Hotel South Coast, ideal for a quick and convenient meal.

Seasonal Activities in Selfoss

Selfoss has special experiences that change with the seasons. Here is what you can expect:

• Northern lights (late August to mid-April): Selfoss is one of the best places in South Iceland to see the aurora thanks to its dark skies. A popular spot is along the Olfusa River near the Olfusarbru Bridge. Check the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s aurora forecast to improve your chances.

• Summer in Selfoss Festival (August): This is one of the largest cultural events in South Iceland. Visitors can enjoy parades, outdoor markets, and live performances.

FAQs About Selfoss, Iceland

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Selfoss.

Should you base yourself in Reykjavik or Selfoss?

Reykjavik is better if you want nightlife, museums, and culture. Selfoss is a great base if you plan to explore the Golden Circle, South Coast, waterfalls, and hiking areas, since it’s closer to these attractions and less crowded than the capital.

Is Selfoss worth visiting?

Yes. Selfoss is worth a visit because it is the largest town in South Iceland with restaurants, shops, and hotels. The town itself has attractions like the Skyrland Exhibition, Bobby Fischer Center, and Olfusa River, and it is close to waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and Gullfoss.

How long should you spend in Selfoss?

Plan at least half a day to see the town’s main sights, or 2 to 3 nights if you use Selfoss as a base for day trips along the South Coast and Golden Circle.

Is there a waterfall in Selfoss?

There is no waterfall inside the town. The nearest is Urrisafoss, just 15 minutes away. For famous waterfalls, drive about an hour to Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, or Gullfoss. Be careful not to confuse the town with Selfoss Waterfall in North Iceland.

What to do in Selfoss with kids?

Families can enjoy the Selfoss Swimming Pool, the food hall, riverside walks, and the Icelandic Turf House. There’s the Reykjadalur Hot Spring River nearby, and the annual Summer in Selfoss festival in August also offers family-friendly activities.

What is there to do between Reykjavik and Selfoss?

On the 37-mile (60-kilometer) drive, stop at the Hellisheidi Lava Plateau, Hveragerdi Hot Springs, or the Ljossafoss Power Station Museum.

What is there to do between Selfoss and Vik?

Between Selfoss and Vik, you can stop at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls, visit the Dyrholaey Cliffs, and walk along Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. This stretch of the South Coast is packed with some of Iceland’s most famous natural sights.

What to do in Selfoss at night?

Selfoss is quieter than Reykjavik, but you can have dinner at Tryggvaskali or Krisp Restaurant, enjoy drinks at a local bar, or relax in the swimming pool’s hot tubs. In winter, the northern lights are the main evening highlight.

What are the free things to do in Selfoss?

Free activities include walking along the Olfusa River and Olfusarbru Bridge, exploring the New Old Town, or browsing local shops. In winter, you can often see the northern lights for free.

How is shopping in Selfoss?

Shopping in Selfoss is convenient and varied. You can browse Handverksskurinn for Icelandic handicrafts, explore the shops in the New Old Town, and head to Kronan Supermarket for everyday needs. Selfoss is a good place to buy wool sweaters, souvenirs, and food supplies before exploring South Iceland.

Is Selfoss on the Golden Circle?

Yes. Selfoss is not one of the main three Golden Circle stops but is located just south of the route. Many tours and travelers stop here for food, accommodation, or fuel.

Make the Most of the Things To Do in Selfoss

Selfoss combines small-town charm with a surprising number of attractions, including riverside walks, local dining, and cultural stops like the Skyrland Exhibition. Its location in South Iceland also puts you within easy reach of waterfalls, hot springs, and the Golden Circle.

With so many things to do in Selfoss, the town works as a place to explore on its own and as a base for day trips in the region. It is a practical stop that combines local culture with easy access to Iceland’s most famous natural sights.

Have you visited Selfoss, or are you planning to include it in your Iceland itinerary? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know your favorite experience.