Adventure in Iceland

11 days from $6,292

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 30–Oct. 10, Oct. 10–20, 2023 & May 21–31, June 13–23, July 4–14, Aug. 1–11, Aug. 24–Sept. 3, Sept. 12–22, Oct. 15–25, 2024

Experience Earth’s incredible power and diversity, exploring fascinating geological phenomena as you make your way from the black-sand beaches of the south to the glacier-covered volcanoes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Along the way, admire five of the island’s most impressive waterfalls; watch for seabirds or whales; and enjoy free time to soak up the character and charm of cities and towns.

Highlights Include

Dramatic Waterfalls: Encounter Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, each one breathtaking in its own way. See twotiered Gullfoss, and admire Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss along the southern coast. Witness the thundering cascades of Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, and behold of Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Lake Myvatn: Venture to the bubbling, steaming, lavacrusted landscapes of Lake Myvatn, discovering massive explosion craters, craggy lava sculptures, popping mud pools, and more. Venture into dramatic canyons in Vatnajoküll National Park and, from Husavik, go whale-watching or take a bird-watching cruise to Puffin Island (depending on the season).

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Walk along the shell-sand beach at the abandoned fishing village of Budir, surrounded by a vast lava field. Explore the caves and bizarre basalt rock formations near Arnarstapi, site of thousands of nesting cliff birds. Then stroll the black-pebble beach of Djupalonssandur.

Southern Iceland: At Thingvellir National Park, witness the spot where the world’s oldest Parliament met and walk the rift valley between the North American and European tectonic plates. Watch geysers erupt at Geysir and walk the black-sand beach at Reynisfjara to caves lined with basalt columns. Stop in lovely Vik, and visit the interactive Lava Centre for a close encounter with Iceland’s geological forces. Enjoy time at leisure to explore Reykjavík, or take an optional tour to the Blue Lagoon.

The Northern Lights: Iceland is an ideal place to view the aurora borealis. You’ll have the best chance of experiencing this celestial phenomenon on the September or October departures.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Pat Dickerson (Oct. 10) and Katryn Wiese (Aug. 1)–geologists. Carola Stearns (July)–field geologist and geophysicist. Peter Bobrowsky (Oct. 15)–archaeologist and geologist.

More Ways to Explore Europe

Find details—including full itineraries, special savings, photos galleries, and more—for these and additional tours in Europe at SmithsonianJourneys.org.

Palermo and Taormina: A Stay in Sicily

10 days from $5,940

Oct. 25–Nov. 3, 2023

Explore Italy’s fascinating island of Sicily in depth from two locations on the island during this special Cultural Stay, and discover a unique blend of cultural influences.

The Italian Riviera: A One-Week Stay on the Ligurian Coast

9 days from $5,190

Oct. 21–29, 2023

Savor the enchanting Italian Riviera during a week in beautiful Sestri Levante, and set out on day trips to discover northern Italy’s highlights, from Lucca to the Cinque Terre.

Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea NEW!

9 days from $6,580

Oct. 8–16, 2023

Cruise the Mediterranean coasts of France and Italy, exploring Provence, the Côte d’Azur, the Italian Riviera, and Cinque Terre. Venture to the medieval walled towns and trace the legacies of great artists.

Cruising the Mediterranean: Greece, Sicily, and Malta NEW!

8 days from $5,920 Sept. 26–Oct. 3, 2023

Experience an astonishing sweep of Mediterranean history as you sail from the Greek Isles to Malta, encountering prehistoric sites, ancient Greek and Roman ruins, and seven World Heritage sites.

Walking the Camino de Santiago

11 days from $6,995

Sept. 20–30, Oct. 18–28, 2023

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims since the Middle Ages as you walk along the famous Camino de Santiago from Pamplona to Santiago de Compostela.

New Year’s in Vienna: A Deluxe Rail Journey NEW!

10 days from $13,995

Dec. 27, 2023–Jan. 5, 2024

Climb aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express and journey through four Central European countries during the holiday season. Discover architectural gems, layers of history, and festive Christmas Markets.

Old World Europe

16 days from $6,297

Sept. 19–Oct. 4, 2023 & Apr. 9–24, May 7–22, Aug. 27–Sept. 11, Sept. 17–Oct. 2, 2024

Make your way through five distinctly different countries in Central and Eastern Europe, encountering capitals of history and culture and exploring World Heritage sites from Krakow to Prague.

Irish Walks: An Active Journey from Dublin to Dingle NEW!

11 days from $5,299

May 11–21, June 15–25, July 13–23, Sept. 7–17, 2024

Experience Ireland’s natural treasures, discovering the spectacular landscapes and traditional villages of the Burren, the Dingle Peninsula, and Killarney National Park on a range of hikes, walks, and bike rides.

Portugal’s Historic Cities: Lisbon and Porto

A Tailor-Made Journey handcrafted just for you.* Suggested itinerary: 7 days from $4,960

Experience Portugal from two perspectives on a journey to the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto, and get a taste of history—and wine—on excursions to Sintra and the Douro River Valley.

*Tailor-Made Journeys are private, customized experiences designed for you and your traveling companions. See pages 114–115 for more information.

The Americas

Alaska reawakened in me the childlike wonder at nature. I often realized I was holding my breath…the unbroken expanses, the perfect stillness!

– Connie A., Alaska’s Natural Wonders