Since Icelandair launched its first nonstop flight from Nashville International Airport to Reykjavik, Iceland , earlier this year, more Tennesseans than ever are catching flights to the island known for its stunning volcanos, glaciers and black sand beaches.

Not only did the airline move up its launch date because of high demand, but it also recently announced that the route will remain on BNA's flight schedule through January 2026— even though it was originally dubbed a seasonal summer flight.

"With Nashville, we know there is a demand for access to Iceland and Europe, but we also see strong interest from Icelanders and Europeans wanting to explore Nashville," Icelandair North American Communications Manager Michael Raucheisen said. "We have high expectations for BNA and are excited to offer Tennessee more options to Iceland and beyond."

Roundtrip tickets start at $662 out of Nashville for certain dates in September and October, but generally they are under $1,000.

For the Tennesseans taking advantage of this exciting new flight, here are five locations and activities you shouldn't miss on your first trip to Iceland.

Icelandic hotdogs near Rainbow Street

There are two iconic Icelandic dishes that anyone who visits the island should try: Icelandic hot dogs and fermented Greenland shark.

While the latter offers some health benefits, the former is actually tasty.

Baejarins Beztu Pylsur, the most famous hotdog stand in Reykjavik, has been open since 1937, and it became a local staple after World War II. Its name translates to "The Town’s Best Hot Dogs."

What makes Icelandic hot dogs unique is that they're comprised of mostly grass-fed Icelandic lamb, plus some beef and pork. The traditional way to order is with all five toppings Baejarins Beztu Pylsur offers: crispy fried onions, raw onions, sweet mustard, ketchup and remoulade.

Expect a snappy bite and smoky flavor that's especially appreciated in the chilling Icelandic breeze.

The downtown hotdog stand — visited by notable figures ranging from President Bill Clinton to Anthony Bourdain — is just a five-minute walk from Reykjavik's iconic Rainbow Street. The colorful pedestrian road features local shops, art galleries and cafes.

The top of Iceland's largest church Hallgrímskirkja

At the end of Rainbow Street sits Hallgrímskirkja, the largest church in Iceland. It's also the site of the best views of Reykjavik, spanning from the landmark Mount Esja to the North Atlantic Ocean and a smattering of colorful homes.

To get to the top of the church's tower, visitors must purchase tickets at 1400 Icelandic Króna for adults and 200 Icelandic Króna for children. That's the equivalent of just over $10 for adults and less than $2 for kids.

After a short elevator ride, followed by a few flights of stairs, you'll find yourself looking out at a 360-degree view of Iceland's capital city.

Reynisfjara and Iceland's trademark basalt columns

Possibly one of the most well-known locations in Iceland is Reynisfjara, a beach on the southern coast with striking black sand and aggressive waves. Standing on the lava rock sand, tourists are dwarfed by basalt cliffs towering overhead and a seemingly endless row of caves and crevices to explore.

Reynisfjara is a two-to-three-hour drive outside of Reykjavik, but it is well worth it. It's by no means the only volcanic beach in Iceland, but the intricate hexagonal basalt columns formed along its edge and spiraling sea stacks jutting out from the ocean make Reynisfjara otherworldly.

Fans of "Games of Thrones," "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" and "Star Trek: Into Darkness" may recognize the scenery.

There are several other natural attractions nearby, like Uridafoss waterfall and Solheimajokull glacier. Those who venture outside of the city also have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights when they're in season from September to April.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall

About an hour and a half outside of Reykjavik on the way to Reynisfjara is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Iceland: Seljalandsfoss.

At first glance, it's a monstrous 200-foot waterfall pouring off of a moss-shrouded cliff, but the real magic is beneath it. Visitors can follow a marked path on a quick 10-minute hike behind the waterfall. There are ropes to hold onto and a few metal steps hammered into the ground, but the spraying water leaves a permanent layer of ice on everything during the winter.

Once behind the curtain of water, though, there is a clear, beautiful view of waterfalls, glaciers, volcanos and the ocean.

Make sure to have on waterproof hiking boots and a full-body waterproof covering, whether that's a poncho or raincoat and rainpants.

And even then, don't expect to leave dry.

Geothermal pools

If you ask an Icelander in Reykjavik where to experience how the locals live, you'll likely be directed to one of the many public pools in and around town. Geothermal pools, naturally heated by the Earth's energy and volcanic activity, have been a key part of Icelandic culture since its early settlement.

For tourists, a common choice is the Blue Lagoon, located in a sprawling lava field next to the Svartsengi Power Plant. There, tickets start at $78.

The Sky Lagoon is another popular option just south of the Reykjavik city center. Tickets start at $101.

While you're there, make sure to keep an ear out for the town gossip — most Icelanders speak English anyway.

Hadley Hitson covers business news for The Tennessean. She can be reached at . To support her work, subscribe to The Tennessean .