Iceland, a Nordic island nation, is defined by its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields. Massive glaciers are protected in Vatnajökull and Snæfellsjökull national parks. Most of the population lives in the capital, Reykjavik, which runs on geothermal power and is home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s Viking history.

The city is well known for the late-night clubs and bars in its compact center. Near Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon spa steams in a craggy lava field. The "Golden Circle" tour from Reykjavik encompasses Gullfoss Waterfall, the original Geysir (after which all others are named) and Thingvellir National Park, site of the country’s first parliament, established in 930 A.D. A larger circle, the Route 1 "Ring Road," circumnavigates the country, connecting the inhabited areas. Iceland also offers whale watching, the Northern Lights during winter and unusual delicacies like fermented shark.