Vik - Discovering Iceland

Travelling to Vik

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Vik, 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 Vik 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 Vik, 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 Vik for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Vik

Vik is a small village located in the southern part of Iceland, about 186 kilometers east of Reykjavik. It is situated in the Mýrdalur valley and close to several popular attractions, including black sand beaches, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and the Dyrhólaey peninsula. Vik has a population of around 300 people and it's the southernmost village in Iceland. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and exploring the unique geological features of the area.

What to visit in Vik

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Vik, Iceland and some information about each of them: 1. Reynisfjara Beach: Reynisfjara is a black sand beach located near Vik. It is well known for its striking basalt columns, towering cliffs, and powerful waves. The beach is also home to the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, two standing pillars that legend says were once trolls turned to stone.
2. Skogafoss waterfall: Skogafoss is one of Iceland's biggest and most beautiful waterfalls. It drops 60 meters (197 feet) and is 25 meters (82 feet) wide. The waterfall also produces a lot of mist, which often results in a rainbow appearing overhead.
3. Vik Church: Vík's church is a small, charming church located in the heart of the town. It was built in 1934 and is one of the town's most iconic landmarks. The church's alluring appearance and idyllic location make for great photo opportunities.
4. Solheimajokull Glacier: The Solheimajokull Glacier is located on the south coast of Iceland, close to the town of Vik. It is a part of the larger Mýrdalsjökull glacier, which covers an area of approximately 600 km2 (232 mi2) and is home to the Katla volcano. Visitors can book guided tours to explore the icy terrain.
5. Dyrholaey: Dyrholaey is a natural rock formation located on a peninsula just west of Vik. It is a great spot for whale watching and bird watching, as many species of birds nest here in the summer. The cliffs of Dyrholaey also provide a great view of the surrounding coastline and the black sand beaches below.
These are just a few of the many attractions you can find in and around Vik, Iceland.
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 Vik.

When to go on holiday to Vik

The best time to visit Vik in Iceland is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, you can enjoy the mild and pleasant weather, with around 20 hours of daylight and relatively warm temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it's also the peak season, so you should expect more crowds and higher prices.
If you prefer to have a quieter and more unique experience, you can also consider visiting Vik during the shoulder seasons, which are from May to June or September to October. The weather during these months can be more unpredictable, with some rain and colder temperatures, but you'll still enjoy breathtaking landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Finally, if you're interested in seeing the Northern Lights, then you may want to consider visiting Vik between October and April, the winter season. But be prepared for colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and the possibility of snowstorms.

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

How to get to Vik

To get to Vik, Iceland, the easiest way is to take the Ring Road (Route 1) that runs around the entire island of Iceland. Depending on where you are starting from, you can either rent a car or take a bus.
If you are driving, take the Ring Road (Route 1) heading either east or west until you reach the town of Vik. It's about a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavik heading east, or a 2.5-hour drive from Hofn heading west.
If you prefer to take public transportation, you can take a bus from Reykjavik or other nearby towns. Schedules and ticket prices can be found on the websites of two major Icelandic bus companies: Reykjavik Excursions and SBA-Nordurleid.
Alternatively, there are also guided tours available that will take you to Vik and other nearby sights.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Vik, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Vik

Here are some typical foods of Vik, Iceland with a short description for each of them: 1. Skyr: Skyr is a traditional Icelandic yogurt that has gained popularity across the world. It's thick, creamy, and high in protein, making it a healthy snack option.
2. Hákarl: Hákarl is a fermented shark dish that is considered a delicacy in Iceland. The shark meat is buried underground for several months to ferment before being dried and cut into small pieces. It has a strong smell and taste, and is usually served with a shot of Brennivín, a traditional Icelandic liquor.
3. Plokkfiskur: Plokkfiskur is a traditional Icelandic fish stew that is made with boiled and mashed fish mixed with potatoes, onions, and milk. It's a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cold weather.
4. Lamb: Icelandic lamb is considered to be some of the best in the world, due to the country's natural landscape and grazing practices. It's often served roasted or grilled, and has a distinct and delicious flavor.
5. Rúgbrauð: Rúgbrauð is a dense and dark rye bread that is baked in a pot for several hours, giving it a unique texture and flavor. It's often served with butter and smoked salmon or other seafood.
6. Brennivín: Brennivín is a traditional Icelandic liquor made from potatoes and flavored with caraway seeds. It's often served as an accompaniment to Hákarl or other traditional Icelandic dishes.
You can find general info about typical foods in Iceland here.

Is Vik an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Iceland in general is considered an expensive destination for tourists. Vik, being a small town situated in a remote area, can also be quite pricey. However, it's possible to still enjoy the beauty of the area on a budget by researching affordable accommodations, renting a car or joining a tour to explore the sights, and buying food and supplies at grocery stores instead of restaurants and convenience shops. It's important to plan and budget accordingly to make the most of your trip to Vik.

Where to find accomodation in Vik

The best areas to find accommodations to visit Vik, Iceland are around the village of Vik itself, or in nearby areas such as Kirkjubaejarklaustur, Hvolsvöllur, and Selfoss. These areas offer a variety of budget and luxury options like hotels, guesthouses, camping sites, and holiday homes. Additionally, many of these areas are located near popular attractions such as Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls, and Vatnajökull National Park.
You can check hotel prices at Vik here:
Booking.com

Is Vik a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Vik (Iceland) is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Iceland is known for being a very safe country with low crime rates, and Vik is no exception. However, as with any place, it's always a good idea to practice common sense safety measures such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night. Additionally, the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable and can change quickly, so it's important to be prepared and informed about current weather conditions and any potential hazards before embarking on any outdoor activities.
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 Vik.

What type of travelers will enjoy Vik the most?

Vik, Iceland is a small but beautiful town located on the south coast of Iceland. This destination is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views.
Families with kids can enjoy exploring the black sand beaches, visiting waterfalls, and going on hikes. Couples can take romantic walks along the beach, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes. Young people who enjoy adventure sports such as hiking, snowmobiling, or glacier climbing will find Vik to be a great destination as well.
Keep in mind that Vik is a small town, so visitors looking for nightlife and partying might be disappointed as there are limited options. However, the beautiful natural scenery more than makes up for it.

How to get around Vik

In Vik, the most common mode of transportation is by car since it's a small town and there is no public transportation. If you don't have your own car, you can rent one from car rental companies in Vik. Alternatively, you can take a taxi for shorter trips within Vik, although it can be quite expensive. You can also explore the nearby areas by hiking or biking.

What to see around Vik

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Vik in Iceland: 1. Reynisfjara Beach - a black sand beach with stunning basalt columns, caves, and towering sea stacks.
2. Skogafoss Waterfall - one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.
3. Solheimajokull Glacier - a beautiful glacier that you can hike and explore.
4. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall - a unique waterfall that you can walk behind.
5. Dyrholaey Arch - a natural rock arch with amazing views over the ocean and surrounding landscape.
6. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon - a beautiful canyon with a river running through it.
7. Vatnajokull National Park - a stunning national park with glaciers, mountains, and lakes.
8. Myrdalsjokull Glacier - another beautiful glacier that you can explore with guided tours.
Please note that some of these locations may require a longer drive and you should take into account the travel time while planning your day trip.
For every travel information about Iceland you can click here.

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