How to turn your flight home to the US into a bucket list trip

If you’re travelling between Europe and North America this summer, don’t write off an adventure just yet. Consider a stopover in Iceland; the country’s unique geographical location makes it the perfect connecting hub between Europe and North America. 

Icelandair is offering a unique option for travellers flying to 17 destinations in the USA and Canada – including Seattle, Toronto, New York, and the recent additions of Halifax and Pittsburgh – to stopover in Iceland for up to a week, at no extra airfare. With quick connection times at Keflavik Airport and seamless flight changes, Iceland is the perfect location to break up your journey. 

Whether you’re touching down for a quick 24 hours or stretching out the stopover over a leisurely seven days, one thing’s for sure – you won’t find yourself with time to kill. From geothermal bathing to whale watching, this bucket-list destination offers countless experiences that appeal to every type of traveller.

Icelandair flies to seventeen destinations across Canada and the United States, including an Iceland stopover for up to a week. Discover these incredible deals

For peace seekers 

While the Blue Lagoon, with its warm, milky-blue waters, is arguably Iceland’s best-known geothermal spa, there are plenty more just begging to be discovered.

Take a dip in the heated pools of the Mývatn Nature Baths or relax at the oceanside setting of the Sky Lagoon that opened in the Greater Reykjavík Area in 2021. These soothing waters offer benefits from pain relief to stress reduction – and make for a pretty memorable photo op too. 

While you’re in the Reykjavík area, hop on a domestic Icelandair flight to Akureyi. Nestled amidst breathtaking scenery and along the shores of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s largest fjord, the northern Icelandic town offers a rich cultural scene and quaint atmosphere, as well as the famous Akureyri Church designed by the famous architect Gudjon Samuelsson.

Time spent in the great outdoors has been proven time and again to have a positive effect on your mental well-being. And if there’s one thing Iceland has in abundance, it’s nature. 

Take a stroll along West Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s serene shores, where rugged cliffs meet the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s just a two-hour drive from Reykjavík and offers some of the best sights the country has to offer, from a glacier-capped volcano to a 4000-year-old lava field.

For adventurous spirits 

You only need a few hours to dive into a true Icelandic adventure. Whale-watching tours depart from three main locations, including the Old Harbour in Reykjavík and Akureyri and Husavik on Iceland’s north coast, and typically last up to four hours. 

Consider an Icelandic horse riding tour if you prefer to stay on dry land. With origins dating back over a thousand years, these purebred horses are an enduring emblem of Icelandic culture. 

Looking to explore the countryside? Rent a 4×4 or camper van and explore Iceland’s scenery at your own pace. Make a stop at one of the black sand beaches, like Diamond Beach, renowned for the glistening shards of icebergs that dot its shores, or experience the red-gold sands of Raudasandur, home to various birds and marine wildlife. 

Find your next flight deal to fascinating destinations across Canada and the United States – including a once in a lifetime Icelandic stopover – with Icelandair

Iceland’s Central Highlands can only be reached by a 4×4 vehicle in the summertime, but this remote region is a must-see if you have the time. It is a truly breathtaking experience; wandering through this untouched wilderness feels like stepping back into prehistory. You’re unlikely to encounter another person, but that’s not to say you won’t spot an elf or two. 

The Westfjords, with their rugged cliffs, secluded fjords, and quaint fishing villages, offer another opportunity to explore the road less travelled. Hike along the scenic coastal trails or embark on a kayaking tour, paddling along the fjords and getting up close to the towering sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls and local fauna.

For culture vultures 

Iceland’s cultural scene is as impressive as its dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to folklore, contemporary art or locally-handcrafted items, there’s no shortage of cultural pitstops for you to enjoy. 

As a Nordic country with strong ties to its ancient Viking heritage, Iceland boasts museums and heritage sites that will captivate any history buff. 

If you’re keeping to the capital, don’t miss The Settlement Exhibition in the heart of Reykjavík. Built around the ruins of a Viking longhouse dating back to the 10th century, it features interactive displays, artefacts, and multimedia presentations that bring Iceland’s early history to life. 

Once you’re ready to refuel, prepare to embark on a unique culinary odyssey. From fresh seafood caught in its icy waters to kanilsnúður (cinnamon rolls) enjoyed with a hot coffee in cosy cafes, Iceland is a veritable paradise for foodies. 

Hungry for more? Beyond its culinary delights and breathtaking scenery, the land of ice and fire promises to leave a lasting impression on every traveller venturing to its otherworldly shores. Book your trip to North America with Icelandair and turn your next transatlantic flight into a bucket-list experience. 

Choose Saga Premium to really switch on vacation mode and enjoy a range of exclusive perks, from priority check-in to fast-track through security. As a member of the Saga Club loyalty scheme, you’ll also earn points towards hotel bookings, car rentals, and other travel essentials, ideal for cashing in on your stopover in Iceland.

Explore the wide range of destinations Icelandair flies to – and the breathtaking places you can enjoy on an Iceland stopover