From the Locals

Stories from Iceland

Travel tips, walking routes, hidden gems, and the stories behind the places. Written by people who call this island home.

Golden Circle or South Coast? How to Choose Your Iceland Day Trip
Apr 9, 20266 min read

Golden Circle or South Coast? How to Choose Your Iceland Day Trip

Golden Circle vs South Coast Iceland: which day trip is better? An honest comparison covering what each offers, best season, and how to choose.

Golden CircleSouth CoastDay Trips
Hallgrímskirkja: The Story Behind Reykjavik's Iconic Church
Apr 9, 20266 min read

Hallgrímskirkja: The Story Behind Reykjavik's Iconic Church

The full story of Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik's iconic church. Architecture, history, the tower view, pipe organ, and tips for visiting from a local.

ReykjavíkHallgrímskirkjaArchitecture
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: What to Know Before You Go
Apr 9, 20266 min read

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: What to Know Before You Go

Everything you need to know about Reynisfjara black sand beach in Iceland. Safety tips, the troll legend, basalt columns, puffins, and how to visit safely.

South CoastReynisfjaraSafety
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss: Iceland's Two Famous Waterfalls Compared
Apr 9, 20266 min read

Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss: Iceland's Two Famous Waterfalls Compared

Seljalandsfoss vs Skógafoss: which Iceland waterfall is better? Compare both, plus the hidden Gljufrabui waterfall and tips for visiting on the South Coast.

South CoastWaterfallsSeljalandsfoss
Sólheimajökull Glacier: Seeing Climate Change Up Close
Apr 9, 20266 min read

Sólheimajökull Glacier: Seeing Climate Change Up Close

Visit Sólheimajökull glacier in Iceland. Learn about its volcanic ash streaks, dramatic retreat, glacier hiking options, and what climate change looks like up close.

South CoastGlaciersClimate Change
South Coast Iceland: The Complete Self-Drive Guide
Apr 9, 20267 min read

South Coast Iceland: The Complete Self-Drive Guide

Drive Iceland's South Coast from Reykjavik to Vik in one day. A local's guide to Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Reynisfjara, and everything in between.

South CoastDriving ToursSelf-Drive
What to Do in Akureyri: A Walking Guide to Iceland's Northern Capital
Apr 9, 20267 min read

What to Do in Akureyri: A Walking Guide to Iceland's Northern Capital

A local's walking guide to Akureyri, Iceland. Covers Akureyrarkirkja, the botanical garden, heart-shaped traffic lights, and the best of North Iceland.

AkureyriWalking ToursNorth Iceland
Best Walking Route in Reykjavík - A Local's Guide
Apr 1, 20266 min read

Best Walking Route in Reykjavík - A Local's Guide

Discover the best self-guided walking tour in Reykjavík. This local's guide covers the Þingholtin route past Hallgrímskirkja, Tjörnin, and Harpa, with tips on timing, weather, and what most tourists miss.

ReykjavíkWalking ToursLocal Tips
Golden Circle Hidden Gems Most Tourists Miss
Mar 25, 20267 min read

Golden Circle Hidden Gems Most Tourists Miss

Go beyond Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. This local's guide reveals the Golden Circle stops most tourists drive right past, including Kerið crater, Friðheimar tomato farm, and the secret hot springs.

Golden CircleDriving ToursHidden Gems