The most unique shore excursions in Iceland

From landscapes carved by fire and ice to tranquil fishing villages that feel untouched by time, Iceland is a country of striking contrasts and raw beauty. Towering waterfalls cascade into deep canyons, geothermal pools serve as soothing sanctuaries, and black-sand beaches stretch along rugged coastlines where remarkable seabirds soar through the skies. With its snow-capped mountains, glittering glaciers, and dramatic fjords, the scenery here is unforgettable and almost otherworldly. Beyond the landscapes, you can immerse yourself in rich cultural heritage, where folklore, music and tradition are woven into everyday life. For those discovering Iceland by cruise, shore excursions are the perfect way to explore. Whether you’re drawn to adventure, culture, or relaxation, there’s something here for every kind of traveller. In this blog, we’ve highlighted some of the most memorable excursions offered by some of the fantastic cruise lines that sail here, including Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Princess Cruises, HX and P&O Cruises. 

Duration - 3 hours 

Activity level - Moderate 

Princess Cruises notes that this tour involves a moderate level of activity, with several steps to access the boat’s interior seating. While wildlife sightings are likely, they cannot be guaranteed. Guests prone to motion sickness are advised to consider this before booking. 

Surrounded by dramatic scenery of untouched fjords, towering snow-dusted peaks, and rugged cliffs, the Westfjords region has been recognised with the prestigious ‘European Destination of Excellence’ award. It’s also one of the best places to encounter whales and other fascinating marine life. With Princess Cruises, your adventure begins with a short ten-minute stroll from the pier to the boat, where the captain will guide you across the waters of the vast Ísafjarðardjúp fjord, which stretches for 53 miles. Keep your camera at the ready; this is prime territory for spotting whales, curious seals, and playful dolphins. Just across the bay lies Vigur Island, a haven for birdlife where 100,000 puffin pairs nest alongside Arctic terns, black guillemots, and eider ducks.

Duration - 2.5 hours 

Activity level - 2

HX classifies this excursion as a level two activity, involving a walk of approximately 1.6km. The cruise line recommends wearing comfortable shoes and suitable clothing. 

Stroll through the lively heart of Reykjavík alongside a passionate local guide and uncover the city’s culinary treasures. This walking food tour invites you to taste your way through history, with at least ten different dishes reflecting Iceland’s deep-rooted traditions and innovative spirit. Each stop highlights the country’s dedication to fresh, local ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. From hearty comfort foods and beloved street eats to modern twists on Icelandic classics, this experience offers an authentic flavour of the nation’s culture and cuisine. 

Duration - 3 hours 

Activity level - Moderate

Regent Seven Seas Cruises advises that this tour involves approximately two hours of moderate walking or standing, with some uneven or occasionally muddy paths, and approximately 20 steps at Santa’s House. The excursion is not suitable for wheelchair users, and guests with mobility concerns are encouraged to carefully assess their own stamina before taking part. 

With Regent Seven Seas, guests are invited to discover the charm of Akureyri on a guided walking tour that weaves together history, culture, and a sprinkle of festive magic, no matter what the season. Wander through the tranquil botanical garden, a haven of colour and fragrance, and step inside the Nonni Museum, once the childhood home of Jón Sveinsson, one of Iceland’s most beloved children’s authors. Along the way, you’ll also admire the striking architecture of the town’s most Lutheran church and uncover captivating stories that bring Akureyri’s heritage to life. The highlight for many is Santa’s House, a whimsical, gingerbread-style shop where Christmas is celebrated every day of the year. Inside, you’ll be surrounded by dazzling decorations from around the world and introduced to Iceland’s enchanting holiday customs, including the tale of the Yuletide Lads, who are mischievous Santa-like figures who leave gifts in children’s shoes on each of the 13 nights before Christmas. 

Duration - 6 hours 

Activity level - Moderate

Moderate activity excursions with P&O Cruises typically span a few hours and may take you across uneven ground, up gentle hills, or along stairways. 

This popular excursion is a must for fans of the hit TV show Game of Thrones. Get ready to embark on a journey through Iceland’s breathtaking scenery while uncovering the spots where iconic scenes were filmed. Whether you are familiar with the series or not, this excursion is worth it for the unforgettable scenery that’s guaranteed to leave you in awe. A knowledgeable guide shares insightful stories and will be on hand to point out locations that backdropped scenes set north of The Wall in the third season. Marvel at the cascading beauty of Goðafoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, before stepping into the quiet charm of Kálfastrandavogar, which was the area used as the Haunted Forest. At Dimmuborgir, wander through surreal formations of twisted lava, arches, and grottos. You might recognise this location as it was once transformed on-screen into the camp of Mance Rayder and his followers. A stop at Grjótagjá, a small lava cave warmed by a natural hot spring, which you might recognise as the location that Jon Snow and Ygritte began their affair. Finally, gaze across the steaming otherworldly landscapes of Námaskarð, where the land seems alive with energy, and it’s easy to imagine the legendary Battle of First Men unfolding across the horizon. 

Duration - 2.5 hours 

Activity level - Strenuous 

Princess Cruises advises that this tour involves a strenuous level of activity and is limited to guests aged 12 and over. The excursion is weather-dependent. Guests are also advised to bring extra clothing in case they get wet, and jeans are not permitted as they can become restrictive and uncomfortable when damp. 

If you’re looking for a peaceful way to experience Iceland’s wild beauty, a kayaking trip in Ísafjördur might be the perfect excursion for you. On this two-hour adventure, you’ll glide across fjord waters with towering mountains all around you, giving you a completely different perspective of this remote corner of the country. It all starts with a short walk from the pier to the kayak centre, which is located behind the town’s Maritime Museum. After a warm welcome and a thorough safety briefing from the expert guide, you’ll settle into a one or two-person kayak and set off. Ísafjördur is often called the sea kayaking hub of Iceland, and once you’re out on the water, it’s easy to see why. Fjords and little bays stretch out in every direction, and the area is alive with birdlife. You might spot puffins, eider ducks, and Arctic terns. Keep an eye on the shoreline too, as seals and other marine life sometimes make an appearance. If you’ve packed binoculars, make sure to bring them with you. After your excursion finishes, you might decide to pop into the Maritime Museum or wander slowly back to the ship. 

Duration - 6.5 hours 

HX notes that this excursion includes a mix of loose gravel, muddy paths, and paved surfaces, with steps and inclined areas along the way. Guests should also expect around two hours of total driving time. HX recommends bringing warm clothing and gloves. 

Set off on an adventure with HX, exploring some of the most dramatic landscapes Iceland has to offer. The day begins with a hike up Saxhóll Crater, where every step brings you closer to breathtaking sweeping views crowned by the snowy peak of Snæfellsjökull. From there, the excursion continues to Djúpalónssandur, a striking black pebble beach where crashing waves meet towering cliffs in a breathtaking display of nature’s power. As you wander along the shoreline, you will pass the remains of old stone huts before reaching a peaceful cove. The journey finishes with a descent of 115 feet underground into Vatnshellir Cave, where colourful lava formations tell the story of Iceland’s volcanic past. 

Duration - 3 hours 

Activity level - Moderate

Regent Seven Seas Cruises notes that this tour involves approximately 45 minutes of walking and standing, sometimes over uneven paths. It is accessible to wheelchair users with a collapsible chair, provided they can embark and disembark independently and are accompanied by a companion for assistance. Guests are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing, a waterproof or windproof jacket, and comfortable, flat, non-slip walking shoes. 

Experience the serenity and beauty of everyday life in Iceland’s remote fishing towns with this excursion by Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The journey begins with a drive through rugged mountains, where tiny farms and villages sit on narrow strips of land between towering ridges and deep fjords. Along the way, you’ll make a stop at Skrúður, which is Iceland’s oldest botanical garden. This small but remarkable green oasis is a testament to how much can grow and thrive this far north. The tour continues to Flateyri, a historic shark-fishing village with only around 200 residents, set on a slender section of land that leads into Önundarfjörður. Here, you’ll stroll along the main street, step inside a charming little church for a traditional music program, and browse the old bookstore that also serves as the local museum and archive. The experience concludes at Gunnukaffi, where you will be welcomed with coffee and traditional Icelandic pastries, a sweet taste of community life in this mountain-framed outpost. 

Duration - 5 hours 

Activity level - Low

Low activity excursions with P&O Cruises usually involve a minimal amount of walking on mostly flat surfaces. 

With P&O Cruises, you can enjoy one of Iceland’s most soothing experiences: a visit to the famous Mývatn Nature Baths. After a scenic countryside drive, you’ll arrive at this peaceful geothermal haven, where the pools stay naturally warm between 37 and 40°C. Slip into the steaming water, rich in minerals and silicates, and let the heat ease your muscles as you take in sweeping views over Lake Mývatn. For an extra touch of relaxation, step inside one of the natural steam baths and feel the volcanic energy rise around you. After your time in the baths, the return journey brings another highlight: a stop at Goðafoss, the spectacular ‘Waterfall of the Gods’. Here, the Skjálfandafljót River plunges 40 feet over a 100-foot-wide horseshoe-shaped cliff, sending cascades of water into the depths below. It’s the perfect finale to a day that blends relaxation with the raw power of Iceland’s natural wonders.