Just south of the Arctic Circle, the Nordic island of Iceland is home to vast expanses, glaciers — and puffins. Its small size lends itself well to exploration, and you’ll likely be able to visit several locations during your stay. If you’re not already an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll certainly be converted by the time you depart!

The world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavik is the country’s cultural and economic hub, as well as one of the world’s cleanest, safest, and most sustainable cities. About one third of Iceland’s 330,000 inhabitants call the city home, and many students choose to study abroad in Iceland here at Reykjavik University or the University of Iceland. Icelanders are quite welcoming to foreigners, and you likely won’t have trouble finding local friends for a quick soak in a hidden thermal pool or a visit to Laugavegur for a late night out.

Further afield is the town of Akureyri, located in the northeastern region. With a population of about 18,000, it’s Iceland’s second-largest urban area and is an important port and fishing center. The city is surrounded by mountains, helping to insulate it from cold winds and making it one of the warmer places to study in Iceland. Despite its size, the town has a vibrant cultural scene, and students can participate in folk dancing or check out the annual medieval festival.

On the Westfjords peninsula, Ísafjörður provides international students an opportunity to study coastal and marine management issues at the town’s distance learning center. The area is quickly becoming a popular destination for outdoor activities, and tourists enjoy hiking, skiing, surfing, and kayaking nearby. The adventurous can even explore the abandoned village of Hesteyri, which has sat empty since 1952 and is only accessible via ferry in the summer months.

When you study abroad in Iceland, don’t be too worried about the climate — it isn’t quite as cold as you’d think, but it’s unlikely you’ll be spending weekends sunbathing either. The southern coast, which includes Reykjavik, is warmer, wetter, and windier than other regions, and temperatures are generally mild. It’s a good idea to invest in a sturdy rain jacket before arriving to study abroad, as rain is common and unpredictable. Also important to keep in mind is Iceland’s northern location, which equals long, dark winters and nearly 24-hour daylight during the summer months. But don’t worry; there’s still much light to be gained from attending top schools for international students in Iceland.