Selfoss - Discovering Iceland

Travelling to Selfoss

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Selfoss, a pretty good destination in Iceland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Selfoss and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Selfoss, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Iceland, here's everything to know about Selfoss for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Selfoss

Selfoss is a small town located in the south of Iceland, about 50 km east of Reykjavik. It is situated on the banks of the Ölfusá River and is the largest town in the county of Árborg. The town has a population of around 6,000 and is a popular place to stop for tourists traveling along the south coast. Selfoss is known for its natural scenery, including the nearby Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, as well as its hot springs and geothermal activity. There are also several museums and cultural attractions in and around the town, making it a great destination for history and culture buffs.

What to visit in Selfoss

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Selfoss, Iceland: 1. Selfoss Church: This modern-looking church is located in the heart of Selfoss and is easily recognizable by its towering steel structure and colorful stained glass windows. The church often holds choir concerts and religious services.
2. Kerid Crater: Located just a few miles from Selfoss, Kerid Crater is a massive, volcanic crater filled with bright blue water. Visitors can walk around the rim of the crater for spectacular views or hike down into the crater itself.
3. Thingvellir National Park: About 45 minutes away from Selfoss, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of Iceland's most historic and stunning natural landmarks, including the site of the world's oldest parliament and the Silfra Fissure, a crack between two tectonic plates filled with crystal-clear water that's popular for diving and snorkeling.
4. Geysir and Strokkur Geysers: Located about an hour's drive from Selfoss, these geysers are must-see destinations for any tourist in Iceland. Geysir is one of the world's oldest continuously active geysers, while Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water up to 130 feet in the air.
5. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: This magnificent waterfall is located about an hour's drive from Selfoss and is famous for its unique look - visitors can actually walk behind the waterfall for incredible views.
6. Skogafoss Waterfall: Just a bit farther down the road from Seljalandsfoss, this beautiful waterfall plunges down from a height of more than 200 feet into a misty pool below. There's a staircase nearby that gives visitors a chance to climb up for a bird's-eye view.
7. Reykjadalur Hot Springs: About 30 minutes away from Selfoss is this stunning set of hot springs, which are actually natural, warm pools located in the middle of a lush valley. Visitors can hike up to the hot springs and take a dip in the warm water for an unforgettable experience in nature.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Iceland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Selfoss.

When to go on holiday to Selfoss

Selfoss, Iceland is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but the best time to go really depends on your interests. Here are some things to keep in mind: - Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Iceland, and for good reason. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 15°C and the days are long with almost constant daylight. You'll have plenty of time to explore the stunning countryside, hike, and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls and hot springs.
- Winter (December to February): Winter in Selfoss is a magical experience with snow-covered landscape, the Northern Lights, and fewer crowds. Temperatures can drop between -5 to 0°C and the sun rises around 11 am and sets around 4 pm. Winter Sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing, ice skating or snowmobiling.
- Shoulder Season (March to May, September to November): This season offers the best of both worlds - fewer tourists, lower prices, and still the chance to enjoy stunning landscapes. The weather is mild, but there's always a chance of snow in the early spring and late autumn. Ultimately, the best time to visit Selfoss depends on your preferences and what you want to experience.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Selfoss

Selfoss is a town located about 60 km southeast of Reykjavik. The most common ways to get to Selfoss are: 1. By Car: You can rent a car from Reykjavik and drive to Selfoss on the Ring Road. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.
2. By Bus: There are frequent daily bus services from Reykjavik to Selfoss. You can purchase your ticket in advance from the bus company's website or at their office.
3. By Taxi: Taxis can also take you from Reykjavik to Selfoss, although they can be quite expensive.
4. By Private Transfer: You can book a private transfer from Reykjavik to Selfoss. This option may be more expensive than the other options, but it offers more comfort and convenience.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Selfoss, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Selfoss

Selfoss may not have its own unique cuisine as it is a small town in Iceland, but it offers a variety of Icelandic food options. Here are some typical foods you can try in Selfoss: 1. Lamb: Icelandic lamb is known for its tender meat and is a popular staple in traditional Icelandic dishes.
2. Skyr: Skyr is a type of Icelandic yogurt that has been a part of the Icelandic diet for over a thousand years. It is high in protein and low in fat, and it is commonly served as a dessert or breakfast item.
3. Fish and Chips: Iceland is known for its fresh seafood, and one of the most popular dishes is fish and chips. The fish is usually cod or haddock, and it is coated in a light batter and fried until crispy.
4. Plokkfiskur: Plokkfiskur is a traditional Icelandic dish made with boiled fish and potatoes. It is often served with rye bread and butter.
5. Hákarl: Hákarl is fermented shark that has been a traditional Icelandic food for centuries. The shark meat is buried in the ground for several months to allow it to ferment before it is eaten. It has a strong ammonia smell and a chewy texture.
6. Brennivín: Brennivín is a type of Icelandic schnapps made from fermented potatoes and flavored with caraway seeds. It is often served as a traditional drink during festivals and celebrations. 7. Hot dogs: Iceland is famous for its hot dogs, also known as "pylsur." The hot dogs are made with lamb, beef, and pork and commonly served with fried onions and Icelandic hot dog sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Iceland here.

Is Selfoss an expensive destination for tourists?

Selfoss, Iceland can be an expensive destination for tourists as it is a popular tourist destination in Iceland. Accommodation and food costs can be quite high, especially during peak seasons. However, there are budget-friendly options available for those who are willing to look for them.
If you plan ahead and do research before your trip, you can find affordable accommodation options such as guesthouses or hostels. Additionally, self-catering can save you money on food costs, and there are a number of supermarkets and local markets where you can buy groceries.
Overall, the cost of a trip to Selfoss, Iceland will depend on your travel style, preferences, and budget. With careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to enjoy a trip to Selfoss without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Selfoss

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Selfoss, Iceland would be in the town center, in the nearby towns of Hveragerði or Hella, or along the popular Golden Circle tourist route which includes Selfoss. Staying in the center of Selfoss will offer easy access to local restaurants and amenities while staying in Hveragerði or Hella, which are only a short drive away, may provide a more peaceful and secluded experience. Staying along the Golden Circle route, which includes nearby attractions like the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall, will provide easy access to multiple destinations from one location.
You can check hotel prices at Selfoss here:
Booking.com

Is Selfoss a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Selfoss is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Iceland. It is a small town with a low crime rate and friendly inhabitants. However, as with any destination, it is important to take necessary precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings, not leaving valuables unattended, and following local laws and customs. Additionally, visitors should take proper safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking or swimming, as Iceland's natural landscapes can be unpredictable.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Iceland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Selfoss.

What type of travelers will enjoy Selfoss the most?

Selfoss, Iceland is a great destination for those who enjoy the great outdoors and the natural beauty of Iceland. It is a popular starting point for exploring the nearby Golden Circle, which includes popular attractions such as the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir hot springs, and Gullfoss waterfall. Selfoss is a great place for all types of travelers, including couples, families, and young people seeking adventure and exploration. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, horse riding, fishing, and kayaking in the nearby rivers and lakes. Families with children will enjoy visiting the local swimming pool, which has waterslides and hot tubs. In summary, Selfoss offers something for everyone, and it is a great starting point to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of Iceland.

How to get around Selfoss

Selfoss is a small town in Iceland that can easily be navigated on foot. However, if you need to travel further or explore the surrounding areas, you can use a car or a bus. There are rental car companies in Selfoss, and buses operated by Strætó can take you to nearby towns and cities. Taxis are also available, though they can be quite expensive in Iceland. Additionally, biking is a popular mode of transportation in Iceland during the summer months, and you can rent bicycles in Selfoss.

What to see around Selfoss

Here are a few nice places to visit within a day trip from Selfoss: 1. Geysir: A world-famous geothermal field with active geysers and hot springs. It's located about 40 minutes away from Selfoss.
2. Gullfoss Waterfall: A magnificent two-tiered waterfall also located in the Golden Circle area, about 50 minutes away from Selfoss.
3. Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a must-visit for those interested in exploring Iceland's natural beauty. This park is about 45 minutes away from Selfoss.
4. Kerið Crater Lake: Located just 15 minutes away from Selfoss, this volcanic crater has a turquoise-blue lake at the bottom that makes for a scenic photo spot.
5. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall is about an hour's drive from Selfoss and is known for the unique experience of being able to walk behind the waterfall.
6. Skógafoss Waterfall: Another stunning waterfall that is about 1 hour and 20 minutes away from Selfoss. It's known for its sheer size and rainbows that can be seen on a sunny day. These are just a few of the many beautiful places to visit within a day trip from Selfoss. Don't forget to plan ahead and check the weather conditions!
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