Iceland is a majestic island to explore on the North Atlantic Ocean, but you should remember that the country lives up to its name. The high altitude makes for a cold climate, and the weather conditions in Iceland are rather unpredictable and can change fast. As a general rule, you can expect cold temperatures, chilly wind gusts and cloudy skies year-round.
While there are many outdoor sights to see – such as massive glaciers and active volcanoes – the temperamental weather patterns sometimes call for a day or night spent indoors. If you are visiting the northern part of Iceland, temperatures are typically colder. However, precipitation is more prevalent in the south. So, no matter which region you visit, you should be prepared to keep yourself busy in any situation.
Aside from renting a car and exploring, here are some fun ways you can make the most of your visit (and avoid getting cabin fever).
Get Cozy In The Pub
Just because it is raining, snowing or just too cold to enjoy being outside, that does not mean you have to stay holed up in the house. There are plenty of indoor activities to partake in around the country – particularly in the capital city of Reykjavik.
If you are feeling social, Iceland’s pub culture is alive and well. Visiting them is a great way to get acquainted with tourists and locals alike. If you are visiting Reykjavik, stop by the Saeta Svinid Gastropub to enjoy beer, wine, spirits, cocktails and hearty food. If you find yourself there on a Sunday night, partake in a game of Party Bingo.
If you are looking for a more quaint bar experience, visit the Drunk Rabbit. It is a small Irish pub with a large food and drink menu. You will likely catch some live music while you are there too.
Get Educated At Museums
One of the reasons Reykjavik is a popular tourist destination is because of its coastal positioning, which lends itself to whale and dolphin-watching opportunities. It is also home to the National Museum of Iceland, which provides an ideal activity to partake in when outdoor conditions are subpar.
The museum features artifacts and exhibitions that give a deeper understanding of Iceland’s culture and history. There are rotating exhibitions as well as two permanent ones that can be viewed year-round. Making of a Nation – Heritage and History in Iceland offers a comprehensive view of the nation from the first settlement to the present day. Points of View – a journey through the visual world of Iceland is housed in one of the nation’s most iconic historical buildings. It features artwork, books, maps and activities.
Get Up Close And Personal With ‘whales’
The Wales of Iceland Exhibition is a way for you to feel like you are outdoors when you are actually indoors. Located inside a converted warehouse, it includes 23 life-size displays of whales. Multilingual audio guides and interactive displays divulge everything you could want to know about each species. There is also an on-site cafe where you can enjoy refreshments while wearing virtual reality glasses that make you feel like you are swimming with killer whales.
Enjoy A Day Of Online Gaming
Even with so many indoor activities on offer in Iceland, there are still times when staying in your pajamas and drinking a cup of hot cocoa in front of the fire is more enticing. Playing online games and eSports can make the day fly by. Of course, this will take some preparation on your part as you will need equipment such as an internet connection, computer, headset and whatever else your favorite games require.
Because there is no such thing as a hot day in Iceland, you need to arrive with more than just warm clothes. While there are many activities that draw people to Iceland – even in the winter – be sure come equipped with a plan for when outdoor activities must be put on hold.
By Amey MyersAmey, an intrepid traveler and avid blogger, roams the world, absorbing diverse cultures, flavors, and experiences. Her writing captures the essence of her adventures, inspiring others to explore. Amey's infectious passion for travel and storytelling epitomizes a life filled with exploration and adventure.
