Besides the Reykjavík area, the South Coast of Iceland is by far the most popular part of the country that is featured on social media, blogs and in one of Justin Bieber’s music videos. People from around the world are flocking there in droves. According to  the Icelandic Tourism Board’s statistics for 2017, during the winter 55% of the travelers that come to Iceland traveled to the South and in the summer, a whopping 71% of travelers to the country went to that region. It is without a doubt a very popular place but it might make one wonder, “Is it really worth the hype?”

Before answering that, let’s start off with what you can see and do along the South  Coast of Iceland. Because this area does have a variety of attractions and stunning nature, I have split everything up into three categories. I will start off with talking about historical sites and the most popular places to visit. Following that, will be the type of wildlife and nature you can find in this region. Lastly, I will go over the fun activities that are available for you to do along the South Coast.

Historical Sites & Most Popular Places to Visit

1. Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir

Þingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is popular for many reasons. The first and most important reason  is due to its historical significance in Icelandic society. The general assembly for Parliament, or Alþing in Icelandic, was established here around 930 and continued to meet there until 1798. The parliament members would discuss and decide on laws, as well as pass judgements on any matters brought before them.

The Logberg or Law Rock is where public speaking events took place. The unique geology in the area created a natural amphitheater for such speaking events. Along with learning about history and being able to see where Icelandic people’s ancestors used to meet,  you can witness the Mid-Atlantic ridge. This ridge is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly separating at a rate of two centimeters per year. The separation has created a rift valley, which means that you can walk between two continents.

2. Churches Along the South Coast

Even though less than 10% of Icelandic population goes to church each month, there are many churches in the country. In fact, there are 19 churches that can be found along the South Coast of Iceland, if you exclude the ones in the Reykjavík area. Many of these churches have a similar style that makes them easy to spot. Just look for a steeple with a cross on top that is attached to a large room that is used for the congregation to meet in.

On a map, you will always know how to find a church because the word kirkja will be at the end. Kirkja means church. Some of the churches that get a decent amount of visitors are the ones in Selfoss, Þingvellir, Strandar and Höfn.  The church in Höfn is especially interesting because it has a turf roof and was built in 1884!  See the full list of churches along the South Coast of Iceland here.

Church with a turf roof

3. Museums & Cultural Centers

Icelandic people are very proud of their culture and the nature that surrounds them.