Vik is a must-visit on Iceland’s South Coast. Its convenient location near waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches makes it an ideal base for discovering natural wonders and soaking in the landscapes of Iceland. Read on to find out the best things to do, places to stay, and where to eat.
Vik, or in Icelandic Vík í Mýrdal, is a charming village on the southernmost point of Iceland’s mainland, about 110 miles (186 kilometers) from Reykjavik.
Vik tours and South Coast tours often include a stop in this peaceful coastal town, making it a perfect place to rest, recharge, or stay overnight in comfortable accommodations. Although home to only around 650 residents, Vik is a favorite among travelers for its convenience and the stunning landscapes that surround it.
With a variety of local attractions, cozy places to stay, and experiences like horseback riding on a black sand beach, Vik offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. Continue reading for a walk-through of the must-see sights, top things to do, and helpful tips to make the most of your time in Vik.
Key Takeaways
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Situated on Iceland’s South Coast, just under three hours from Reykjavik, this village is known for its Viking roots and picturesque coastal setting.
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Highlights of this region include Reynisfjara Beach, Dyrholaey Peninsula, Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls, and the iconic plane crash site near Solheimajokull.
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Vik is a hotspot for birdwatching, particularly puffin spotting.
Things To Do in Vik
Vik, located on Iceland’s scenic South Coast, attracts adventurous guests because of its proximity to glaciers, mountains, and ice caves. The town may not offer the hustle and bustle many expect from a tourism destination, but its most popular attractions are found just outside the town center—along dramatic cliffs, black sand beaches, and natural landmarks that define the region.
Popular Day Tours Near Vik
Vik is a great starting place for heading out on day trips to explore the surrounding areas. Check out the top-rated day tours:
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The Katla Ice Cave Tour – Meet your guide in Vik before traveling by Super Jeep to the glacier, where you’ll be outfitted for a short hike to the cave.
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Horse Riding Tour on the Black Sand Beach – Ride the unique Icelandic Horse to the black sand beach before trotting back along the Reynisfjall Cliffs.
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Snowmobile Tour on Myrdalsjokull Glacier – Spend an hour speeding across the 5,000-foot (1,524-meter) glacier just outside Vik.
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Solheimajokull Glacier Hike for Beginners – If snowmobiling isn’t your speed, trek across the Solheimajokull Glacier instead.
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1-Hour Paragliding Tour & Tandem Flight Over Vik – Take to the skies and get an aerial view of the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, waterfalls, and Vik Village.
There are adventures for visitors of every skill level. More advanced tourists may opt for a challenging ice climbing tour. If you’re looking for other ways to explore, take a beach buggy ATV to navigate the black sand beaches or a longer tour to drive over the mountains around Vik.
Where To Eat in Vik
Vik may be a small village, but the dining scene offers a variety of delicious restaurants, from those serving hearty Icelandic classics to creative twists on comfort food. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy sit-down meal, a quick bite, or a warm bowl of soup after a day of exploring, these top spots have you covered.
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Black Crust Pizzeria – Known for its signature black dough, this pizzeria serves creative and delicious pizzas with local ingredients and bold flavors. It is a must-visit for pizza lovers looking for something unique.
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Sudur-Vik – A beloved local favorite, Sudur-Vik offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with authentic Icelandic dishes, fresh seafood, and tasty burgers. Reservations are recommended so you can get seated quickly after a long day on the road.
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The Soup Company – If you are craving comfort food, this is the place to go. Specializing in rich, homemade soups and stews, The Soup Company is famous for its creamy red lentil soup and all-you-can-eat bread buffet. Either one is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
Where To Stay In Vik
Vik offers a variety of accommodations, from comfortable hotels to stylish suites, all set against the backdrop of Vik’s natural landscapes. From luxurious stays to more budget-friendly options, these spots provide a perfect base to relax and enjoy your South Coast adventure.
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Hotel Katla – A short drive from Vik, this family-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, a warm atmosphere, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. It’s a peaceful retreat close to the village’s main attractions.
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The Barn – A modern, minimalist hotel focused on sustainability, The Barn features stylish, eco-friendly rooms and a laid-back vibe. Its charming design and proximity to Vik make it ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate experience with a touch of luxury.
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Hotel Vik i Myrdal – Located right in the heart of Vik, this well-established hotel is convenient to the village’s restaurants and shops. Guests enjoy comfortable rooms with panoramic views of the dramatic cliffs around Vik, making it a great choice for those who want to be at the center of it all.
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Hotel Kria – Situated right beside Ring Road, this modern hotel is the perfect starting point for your adventure around the South Coast. Enjoy a breakfast buffet, cocktail bar, and restaurant on-site while enjoying the mountain view.
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Black Beach Suites – For a unique experience, the Black Beach Suites are stunning, modern accommodations with a view of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. These self-contained suites are perfect for guests who want the flexibility of cooking their own meals while enjoying a luxurious stay.
Top Attractions Near Vik — The Ultimate South Coast Adventure
The drive from Reykjavik to Vik offers amazing views that make each turn of the road feel like an adventure. Wondering what to do on the way to Vik? Here are the top spots you won’t want to miss.
Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss — Waterfalls That Will Take Your Breath Away
Get ready for a waterfall double feature. First up is the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, which features a unique walkway that leads behind the waterfall for an interesting perspective. Next up is Skogafoss, which spills water almost 200 feet (60 meters), perfect for dramatic photos.
Iconic Plane Crash Site Near the Solheimajokull Glacier
A must-see for history enthusiasts, the abandoned DC3 Plane Wreck rests on the black sands near the Solheimajokull Glacier. The site takes about an hour to hike to, or can be easily accessed via this shuttle tour. It offers a surreal experience as you stand beside the wreckage, with the glacier and volcanic landscape as a backdrop.
Glaciers & Volcanoes — Iceland’s Wild Power Duo
On a clear day, the glaciers Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull make an impressive appearance. Both glaciers sit atop active volcanoes, with Eyjafjallajokull famously disrupting global air travel in 2010 as it spewed volcanic ash into the air. If the sky is clear, you might even spot the Westman Islands on the horizon.
Dyrholaey Peninsula — Puffin Paradise
Make a stop at Dyrholaey Peninsula, where you can enjoy some of the best views on the South Coast. The promontory offers sweeping coastline views and is home to thousands of puffins during the summer months, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. The Dyrholaey Rock Arch is another highlight, stretching and curving out into the sea.
Reynisfjara — Iceland’s Black Sand Beach
Just outside of Vik lies Reynisfjara, Iceland’s famous black sand beach. Known for the high contrast between the black, volcanic sands and the blue waves of the Atlantic Ocean, this beach features the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks. Local myth says the stacks are trolls that turned to stone in the sunlight before they could drag a boat to shore.
Reynisfjara is perfect for a scenic walk, but the beach can be dangerous due to sneaker waves. Don’t swim there and always stay away from the water’s edge.
Vatnajokull National Park — A Frosty Wonderland
To the east of Vik, you’ll find Vatnajokull National Park. The park’s Skaftafell Nature Reserve and the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon are must-see destinations, featuring massive glaciers, drifting icebergs, and crystal-clear waters. Great for hiking or taking photos, this is one area you won’t forget.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
This popular sightseeing destination along Route 1 is considered one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. At Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, visitors can watch icebergs break off Vatnajokull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe, before drifting through the lagoon out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Wildlife and Nature Activity in Vik
Vik is a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The area is teeming with birdlife thanks to its proximity to Reynisfjall Mountain and the Dyrholaey Peninsula. A short walk from the village brings you to the nesting grounds of gulls, fulmars, and guillemots.
Puffin Watching in Vik
Vik’s real wildlife attractions are the colonies of puffins that congregate on the cliffs of Mt. Reynisfjall in the summer months. Among Vik’s birdlife, puffins, often called the “clowns of the sea” for their colorful beaks and comical waddle, are undoubtedly the stars of the show.
The cliffs of Mt. Reynisfjall and the surrounding Dyrholaey Peninsula offer some of the best opportunities in Iceland. These charismatic seabirds are most commonly observed up close between May and August.
There are a variety of birdwatching tours you can book to see puffins across Iceland.
- Learn more: Puffins in Iceland
Top Travel Packages and Tours to Vik
Looking to make the most of your time in Vik? There’s no shortage of self-drive tours, vacation packages, and guided tours that bring Iceland’s wonders to life.
Vik Vacation Packages
To help you plan the perfect trip, here are a few vacation packages highlighting the best of Vik and the surrounding area. These packages combine accommodations, tours, and transportation for a seamless and memorable experience.
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5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package With Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon – Embark on a winter adventure with a 5-day package featuring stunning ice caves, glacier hikes, and the black sand beaches of Vik.
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5-Day Summer Vacation Package With Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & Golden Circle – See the South Coast of Iceland (and its puffin colonies) under the midnight sun.
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6-Day Northern Lights Adventure Package With Ice Caving – Explore the wonders of Iceland in winter. See the northern lights, explore a glacial ice cave, and visit the top natural attractions around the South Coast.
Guided Tours That Include Vik
Explore the rugged beauty of glaciers, embark on a wildlife-watching adventure, or get up close with Vik's famous black sand beaches. There are plenty of tour options to suit every traveler, and local guides offer insights into the area's history, geology, and wildlife.
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Guided 3-Day Tour of the South Coast, Golden Circle & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – Explore the South Coast with an expert guide, including a stop in Vik.
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South Coast Waterfalls & Glacier Lagoon Day Trip From Reykjavik – This day trip explores Iceland's South Coast. Pass through Vik, with its black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs, and reach the crystal-clear icebergs of the lagoon.
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2-Day Tour of the South Coast with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – This tour includes glacier hiking, iconic waterfalls, and the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. With stops in Vik, you’ll experience breathtaking coastal landscapes before reaching the glaciers.
Vik Self-Drive Tours
For those who prefer exploring at their own pace, self-drive tours are also available, allowing you to discover the sights of Vik on your own terms.
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7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour – Experience a week-long winter adventure dedicated to witnessing the northern lights. Explore Iceland’s best attractions, including the Golden Circle and the South Coast, and visit Vik.
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10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road – This adventure takes you around Iceland's full circle, exploring the South Coast, Golden Circle, and more. This flexible tour takes you to iconic landmarks such as waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes at your own pace, with Vik included along the way.
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1-Week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road & Golden Circle – This 8-day self-drive tour takes you around Iceland’s Ring Road, including a stop in Vik. Explore majestic waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and geothermal wonders while enjoying the freedom of a self-guided experience.
FAQs for Visiting Vik
Planning your trip to Vik? Here are some of the most common questions about visiting this South Coast town.
What’s the best time of year to visit Vik?
Vik is a fantastic destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience.
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Summer (June to August) – If you want to see puffins, enjoy long daylight hours, and hike in mild weather, come in the summer.
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Winter (December to February) – For a magical winter wonderland, lighter crowds, and a chance to see the northern lights, winter offers a different experience. However, keep in mind that temporary road closures can occur because of snowfall.
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Shoulder Seasons (Spring & Fall) – These months offer fewer tourists, cooler weather, and a good balance of conditions for sightseeing and photography.
Is Vik safe for travelers?
Yes, Vik is very safe for travelers. As with any coastal destination, be cautious around the water, especially at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where sneaker waves can be dangerous. Keep away from the water's edge and heed local warnings.
How long should I stay in Vik?
For most travelers, one or two nights in Vik is sufficient. This allows you to explore the village, visit top attractions like Reynisfjara, and take day trips to nearby areas along the South Coast. If you plan to explore more remote parts of the region, consider adding a couple more days to your stay.
What should I pack for my trip to Vik?
The weather in Vik can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for all conditions.
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Layered Clothing – Bring warm, waterproof layers (a waterproof jacket is a must).
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Sturdy Footwear – Opt for waterproof boots with a good grip for exploring beaches, cliffs, and trails.
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Sunglasses and Sunscreen – Even in the winter, UV rays can be intense, especially when reflecting off snow or glaciers.
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Camera Gear – Vik’s landscape is unlike anywhere else, so bring a camera to capture the beauty.
Is there Wi-Fi and mobile coverage in Vik?
Yes, most hotels, restaurants, and cafes in Vik offer free Wi-Fi. However, mobile coverage can be spotty when traveling around rural Iceland, especially in remote areas. It’s always a good idea to download maps and important information before heading out.
Vik Awaits — A Must-See on Your Iceland Itinerary
Vik might be small in size, but it’s packed with big adventures and awe-inspiring beauty. Wander along the beaches, marvel at waterfalls, or soak in the charm of the village. A visit to Vik will make your Icelandic trip unforgettable.
If you’d like to learn more destinations aside from Vik, check out our other guides like the ultimate guide to Iceland's South Coast and the best attractions by the Ring Road of Iceland.
Are you ready to start your trip? Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore one of Iceland’s most charming towns!
