The UNESCO Sites in Iceland have resulted from the recognition of 3 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iceland and 6 locations on the Iceland UNESCO tentative list. These tourist sites in Iceland are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to these 3 sites in the Iceland UNESCO list, there are many other places to travel to Iceland that are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.
To help visitors discover these remarkable Iceland tourist attractions, we have put together an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Iceland.
Iceland UNESCO Map
Click markers to show information and photo.
World Heritage Sites in Iceland
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iceland
There are 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iceland. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.
- Þingvellir National Park
- Surtsey
- Vatnajökull National Park – Dynamic Nature of Fire and Ice
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iceland are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.
Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Iceland. It holds great historical and geological significance. This park is where the Alþingi, an ancient parliamentary assembly, was established in the 10th century, making it one of the world’s oldest functioning parliaments. Þingvellir also showcases the meeting point of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, resulting in unique geological formations. Visitors can explore the dramatic rift valley and marvel at the crystal-clear waters of Lake Þingvallavatn. With its rich history and breathtaking natural landscapes, Þingvellir National Park is a remarkable destination for both cultural and natural enthusiasts.
Surtsey
Surtsey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Iceland. It is a volcanic island that emerged from the Atlantic Ocean in 1963 during a volcanic eruption. The island’s formation and subsequent colonization by plant and animal life provide valuable insights into the process of ecological succession. Surtsey serves as a living laboratory, allowing scientists to study firsthand the colonization and evolution of new land by various species. Due to its unique and ongoing geological and ecological processes, Surtsey is a remarkable site for understanding the natural world and has been designated as a protected area to preserve its scientific value.
Vatnajökull National Park – Dynamic Nature of Fire and Ice
Vatnajökull National Park, located in Iceland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dynamic nature of fire and ice. The park is characterized by the mighty Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice cap in Europe, which dominates the landscape with its icy grandeur. Nestled within the park are numerous active volcanoes, creating a unique juxtaposition of fire and ice. This exceptional combination gives rise to breathtaking scenery, including glacial rivers, towering ice formations, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Vatnajökull National Park offers visitors a captivating experience where they can witness the ever-changing forces of nature at play, making it a remarkable destination for adventure and exploration.
Iceland UNESCO tentative list
- Breiðafjörður Nature Reserve
- Mývatn and Laxá
- Viking Monuments and Sites / Þingvellir National Park
- Þingvellir National Park
- The Turf House Tradition
- Torfajökull Volcanic System / Fjallabak Nature Reserve
Tours in Iceland
Our choices of tours in Iceland are divided into thematic features such as Reykjavik, Golden Circle, and Blue Lagoon Experience.