Iceland / Cruise vs Land – Anne Insider Tips

Iceland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, dramatic fjords, and otherworldly natural wonders. Whether you choose to explore this Nordic gem on a luxury cruise or an immersive land vacation, each travel style offers distinct advantages.

But which is right for you? To help you decide, we’ve broken down the pros and cons of both approaches – with a little help from our own Anne Bond, one of Edgewood’s expert travel advisors, who shares her personal insights from her recent Icelandic adventure.

Exploring Iceland by cruise: the pros and cons

A luxury cruise around Iceland provides a seamless way to see multiple regions of the country while enjoying world-class amenities aboard your ship. Many cruises depart from Reykjavík and make stops at ports such as Akureyri, Ísafjörður, and Seyðisfjörður, allowing travelers to experience a mix of coastal towns, geothermal landscapes, and cultural sites.

Pros of exploring Iceland by cruise:

Effortless travel – No need to worry about driving or planning accommodations; everything is arranged for you.
Scenic coastline views – Witness Iceland’s dramatic cliffs, glaciers, and waterfalls from the water.
Comfort and luxury – Enjoy resort-level comfort on board with fine dining and spa treatments.
Unique shore excursions – Options include whale watching, hot spring visits, and volcanic cave tours.

Cons of exploring Iceland by cruise:

Limited time in each port – Unlike a land vacation, you may only have a few hours at each destination.
Weather-dependent itineraries – Some excursions may be canceled due to unpredictable Icelandic weather.
Less flexibility – Set schedules mean you won’t have as much freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.

Anne’s Insider Tip: “During my recent Windstar Iceland cruise, I discovered the magic is in the details. Book shore excursions at least 3-4 months in advance – especially for unique experiences like volcanic hot spring tours or remote village visits. Pro tip: Our Edgewood Travel network has exclusive partnerships with local operators, giving our clients access to experiences most travelers miss. Pack versatile clothing layers – Iceland’s climate means you could experience four seasons before lunch!”

Luxury Iceland adventures await — choose the perfect cruise or land journey with expert guidance.

Exploring Iceland by land: pros and cons

A land vacation offers an in-depth look at Iceland’s rugged landscapes and vibrant local culture. Whether self-driving the Ring Road or joining a hosted journey led by an expert guide, land travel allows for a personalized experience at your own pace.

Pros of exploring Iceland by land:

Freedom to explore – You can visit hidden gems, linger at must-see spots, and travel at your own pace.
Immersive experiences – Stay in boutique hotels and resorts, dine at local restaurants, and interact with Icelandic culture firsthand.
More time in nature – Hike through lava fields, explore ice caves, and soak in natural hot springs without a set cruise schedule.

Cons of exploring Iceland by land:

Driving challenges – Iceland’s weather can make road travel tricky, and some areas require a 4×4.
Logistics planning – You’ll need to book hotels, transportation, and activities in advance.
Potentially higher costs – Staying in different accommodations and renting a car can add up.

Anne’s Insider Tip: “A 4×4 is non-negotiable. The Ring Road demands a robust vehicle that can handle sudden gravel shifts, mountain passes, and unexpected terrain. My recommendation? Don’t skimp on insurance and roadside support. Download offline GPS.”

Cost comparison: cruise vs. land travel in Iceland

The cost of exploring Iceland varies depending on your preferences for luxury travel and the experiences you want to include.

Luxury cruises typically start around $3,000–$8,000 per person, including accommodations, meals, and some excursions.
Land travel costs vary widely; rental cars, hotels, and dining can range from $2,500–$6,000 per person for a weeklong trip, with added costs for guided tours and excursions.

Both options offer ways to maximize value, whether it’s through all-inclusive packages on a luxury cruise or staying in charming Icelandic guesthouses while on land.

Anne’s Insider Tip: “Budget-conscious travelers, listen up! While cruising might seem more expensive upfront, it can actually be more cost-effective. Your accommodation, meals, transportation between destinations, and many activities are bundled into one price. With land travel, those costs can quickly add up. At Edgewood Travel, we help you maximize value without compromising on experience.”

Must-see attractions

No matter how you explore Iceland, certain sites are unmissable:

Golden Circle – See the iconic Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs, and Þingvellir National Park.
Blue Lagoon – A must-visit geothermal spa with mineral-rich waters.
Vatnajökull Glacier – Explore one of Europe’s largest glaciers through ice caves and guided treks.
Northern Lights – Best viewed between September and April for an unforgettable celestial show.
Westfjords – A lesser-visited region with dramatic landscapes and puffin colonies.

Explore Iceland in style with insider advice on the finest cruise and land travel experiences.

Anne’s Insider Tip: ” Iceland’s natural wonders are nothing short of breathtaking, but some spots truly stand out. Don’t miss the Golden Circle – a classic route that includes Þingvellir National Park, the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, and the geothermal area of Geysir. For something more off-the-beaten-path, venture to the Westfjords for dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches, or head to the glacier lagoon at Jökulsárlón to watch icebergs drift to sea. Pro tip: Visit Seljalandsfoss at sunset – the light streaming through the waterfall creates a magical glow that’s perfect for photos.”

Best time to visit

Iceland’s seasons offer different experiences, so choosing when to go depends on your preferences:

Summer (June–August) – Long daylight hours, mild weather, and full accessibility to Iceland’s highlands. Best for road trips.
Winter (November–March) – Northern Lights viewing, ice caves, and a magical winter landscape. Great for cruise travel, as many ships are equipped for colder conditions.
Spring/Fall (April–May, September–October) – Fewer crowds and a mix of winter and summer landscapes, making it a versatile time to visit.

Anne’s Insider Tip: “Summer in Iceland isn’t just a season – it’s a celebration of nature. Yes, it’s crowded, but for good reason. From mid-June to August, you’ll experience the ‘midnight sun’ with nearly 24 hours of daylight, perfect for epic hiking adventures. The lupins are in full bloom, painting landscapes in vibrant purple, and waterfalls are at their most spectacular.”

Plan your Iceland adventure with Edgewood Travel

Whether you choose an immersive land vacation or a breathtaking luxury cruise, Iceland promises an unforgettable journey. Our expert travel advisors at Edgewood Travel can help craft the perfect itinerary, tailored to your travel style.