Consider this a sign to head west during your Iceland trip and check out all the fun Snæfellsnes Peninsula things to do! Even if you only have one day available in your Iceland itinerary to visit this lovely region, you’ll be able to see the top highlights and most picturesque spots. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is two hours from Reykjavík, making it the ideal day trip or overnight destination.
Pictured below is the exact route my husband, Solomon, and I followed during our day on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. We traveled south from Hvammstangi (where we stayed the night before), which is why we went counter-clockwise around the Peninsula.
Here are my top recommendations for how to spend one day on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula!
7 Best Snæfellsnes Peninsula Things to Do
1. Stykkishólmur
The first stop I recommend making on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the charming fishing village of Stykkishólmur. Fans of The Secret Life of Walter Mitty will recognize this spot from a pivotal scene in the movie where the titular character embarks on a daring helicopter ride. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty was a huge reason why Solomon and I decided to visit Iceland for our honeymoon, so it was a real treat to see this filming location in person. We grabbed coffee and a slice of basil cake from Sjávarborg, a cafe and guesthouse, to kick off our day of adventures.
Solomon and I also made the short trek up to Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, located in the heart of town. This tough little hike will reward you with 360-degree views of the water, Stykkishólmur, and the mountains beyond. It’s a great way to stretch your legs without venturing too far.
2. Kirkjufell
Kirkjufell is an essential stop on your tour of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This unique landmark is considered one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains, and it’s easy to see why. The stunning formation is incredibly striking, even being featured in Game of Thrones. Swing by the Kirkjufellsfoss parking area to photograph the waterfall with the iconic peak in the background.
3. Hellissandur/Ingjaldshólskirkja
The village of Hellissandur is home to another popular photo spot on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Ingjaldshólskirkja. You’ll find this historic church situated atop a hill, framed against a dramatic backdrop of mountains and glaciers. There are several places to pull off on the road leading up to the church where you can snap some photos and admire the landscape. It’s picture-perfect during the summertime lupine season, when the bright purple flowers are in bloom.
4. Djúpalónssandur
Don’t miss your chance to see Djúpalónssandur, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s famous black sand beach. Located in Snæfellsjökull National Park, it’s a fascinating place to wander around. On your way down to the beach, keep an eye out for the Dritvík Stones. They range in weight from 50 to 340 pounds and were once used to test the strength of fishermen. Solomon tried them out and successfully made it through three of the four stones!
Once you’ve made it to Djúpalónssandur, you might notice some random pieces of metal scattered across the beach. These are remnants of a British ship that wrecked off the shore back in 1948. The story is a somber testament to the ocean’s sheer power and magnitude—an important fact to remember at Djúpalónssandur. This area is known for experiencing dangerous sneaker waves, which can quickly pull you out to sea. Maintain a safe distance from the waves and don’t wade in the water, even if it looks calm.
There are many interesting volcanic rock formations to see throughout Djúpalónssandur. As cool as they are to look at, resist the temptation to climb all over them. Iceland’s environment is much more fragile than it appears, so be a responsible and respectful visitor.
5. Lóndrangar
If you can’t get enough of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s rugged coastline, make a pitstop at Lóndrangar. These basalt cliffs boast a distinct pair of rocky towers that rise high above the sea. While you can see the formations from the Lóndrangar parking lot, there are also several trails leading you closer to the cliffs.
6. Arnarstapi
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, consider stopping in Arnarstapi to refuel. There are a few eateries located in this quaint village, and Solomon and I really enjoyed our meal at Stapinn. Gatklettur, a naturally formed rock arch that you can walk across, is another highlight. Sadly, we didn’t have time to see it for ourselves—but it’s on our list for next time!
7. Búðakirkja
Make Búðakirkja the final stop on your Snæfellsnes Peninsula travel itinerary. This all-black church, located in Búðir, might be small, but it packs a serious punch. The building’s dark, moody appearance contrasts beautifully against the distant mountain peaks. We even had some furry friends stop by and say hi while we checked it out! While Búðakirkja is usually closed to the public, there are some great photo ops from the outside.
You won’t regret taking the time to explore Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula!
Check out my other Iceland guides for more travel inspiration:
Must-Try Icelandic Foods | Iceland Food Guide
Wandering the Gap 
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