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Iceland Trip Planner

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• Vatnajokull National Park
• Hafnarfjordur
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• Thingvellir
• Borgarbyggd
• Villingaholt

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Planning a Trip to Iceland for the First Time (Your Easy 10-Step Checklist!)

Glacier hikes, puffin sightings, thundering waterfalls, and geothermal wonders: there is so much to be excited about when planning a trip to Iceland!

A trip to the Land of Fire and Ice is truly a vacation like no other, and we were smitten with it from the moment the plane touched down and we got to admire the lupines growing along the runway (seriously).

Iceland is an incredibly unique destination and offers a magnificent array of once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences, all in a (fairly) compact location.

However, to best take advantage of all that beauty within a limited time frame, you’ll need to do quite a bit of planning before you take off on your first trip to Iceland.

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While you could certainly arrive with little advance planning and see some incredible sights, experiencing the best things to do in Iceland isn’t as easy as hitting the open road with no (literal or figurative) plan.

The country’s extreme popularity coupled with rural attractions and weather unlike what most people experience in their day-to-day lives means that you’ll have a much better time if you carefully plan your trip to Iceland!

Follow this step-by-step Iceland travel checklist, and you’re bound to have an unforgettable adventure when visiting Iceland for the first time.

Step 1: Check visa and entrance requirements.

Toto, it is definitely not 2019 anymore: while checking visa and entrance requirements has always been important before visiting a foreign country, it’s safe to say that we’ll all be paying a bit more attention to it in years to come than we did pre-2020!

As of late 2023, there are no travel restrictions to visit Iceland–but just in case, this official website provides up-to-date requirements for entering Iceland, including any testing requirements.

Icelandair also has a detailed page on entry requirements.

Don’t forget to check any requirements that your home country has for returning, too!

In addition to these more topical necessities, don’t forget the usual needs, like having more than 6 months of validity left on your passport.

Step 2: Book your flights (the biggest step when planning a trip to Iceland!).

Without a doubt, booking flights is one of the most exciting parts of planning a trip to Iceland (or anywhere else)!

Once you book flights, your trip is official and you can start building the details of your adventures in Iceland around the states of your flights.

If your dates are somewhat flexible, we suggest checking prices a few days before and a few days after your intended arrival and departure dates when shopping for flights to Iceland.

You never know what deals you may happen to come across!

As the vast majority of all international flights in Iceland go through Keflavik International Airport in Reykjavik (KEF), shopping for flights to Iceland is a fairly straightforward process.

Step 3: Reserve your rental car (and read the fine print).

While some travelers to Iceland may choose to base themselves in Reykjavik and only take organized tours outside the city, for most visitors, visiting Iceland means that it is time for a road trip!

Whether you want to drive Iceland’s legendary Ring Road (it’s incredible), explore the popular South Coast in-depth (also incredible), or get off the beaten path in places like the remote Westfjords (again, incredible), renting a car will deeply enhance your trip to Iceland.

Given Iceland’s extreme seasonality, rental cars can be a bit of a hot commodity in the summer, so book as far in advance as you can!

We use and recommend Discover Cars to find out which company has the most competitive prices and best rental contracts.

On our recent Iceland road trip, the best choice ended up being Global Rent a Car, and we had a great experience with them.

Wondering if you need to rent a vehicle with 4-wheel drive?

For a traditional Ring Road itinerary , a standard 2-wheel drive vehicle is just fine–but to drive on Iceland’s unpaved “F” roads, 4-wheel drive is required!

We made use of our 4-wheel drive option several times on our road trip, but I wouldn’t consider not having one a dealbreaker unless you have your heart set on driving yourself into the Highlands or to a particular offbeat spot.

We would’ve had a great trip to Iceland with or without F-road access!

Shop rental cars for your trip to Iceland today!

Step 4: Plan your Iceland itinerary.

With a seemingly limitless number of beautiful places to explore, there are as many possible Iceland itineraries as there are visitors!

A few tried-and-true options, though, include these amazing routes.

Iceland Ring Road Trip

The most classic Iceland itinerary, a Ring Road trip is perfect for visitors who have 10+ days in Iceland and want to see it all.

This is what we did, and honestly, we plan to go back and do it again one day–maybe more than once.

From the iconic attractions of South Iceland to the lesser-visited corners of the Eastern Fjords and North Iceland , the Ring Road makes for an incredible Iceland vacation.

Iceland South Coast Road Trip

Have a week or less in Iceland and want to take an epic road trip?

Try the popular South Coast!

This is where you’ll find many of Iceland’s most famous attractions, such as Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park, and the iconic Skógafoss–just to name a few!

Reykjavik-Based Trip

Only have a few days in Iceland?

Don’t worry!

By basing yourself in Reykjavik and taking well-planned day trips, you can enjoy some of the most iconic sights in Iceland (like the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle ) very quickly.

While we’d always recommend a longer trip to Iceland if possible, for the right traveler, even a 3-4 day Iceland vacation is well worth the effort it takes to get there.

Step 5: Finalize your Iceland travel budget.

There’s simply no getting around this one: taking a trip to Iceland is expensive!

To save money when traveling to Iceland on a budget, you can make some concessions like shopping in grocery stores for food (and eating lots of gas station hot dogs–a must-have Iceland experience on any budget), staying in basic lodging, and prioritizing only the experiences that are important to you.

But… even with all that, the price tag is still high.

Before booking your lodging and attractions (more on that in a few paragraphs), be sure to run the numbers and see exactly what you have to spend.

Better to make informed decisions along the way than have a nasty surprise bill at the end of your Iceland vacation!

This guide to budgeting for a trip explains how we budget for our travels in a step-by-step way and can help you create an Iceland budget that works for you.

Step 6: Decide where to stay and make reservations.

If you’re taking an Iceland road trip, especially during the summer, booking your hotels and/or vacation rentals as far in advance as possible is essential.

Most of Iceland’s most popular attractions are found in rural areas, and there are often only a few hotels or guesthouses nearby.

In order to complete your road trip efficiently–for example, driving the Ring Road–you’ll want to have your lodging chosen and booked before starting your trip.

We use Booking.com to find and book lodging in Iceland!

A few hotels that stood out on our recent Iceland road trip are Hotel Vík í Mýrdal (fantastic central location in Vik), Hótel Laxá near Mytvan (rural but convenient), and Fosshotel Nupar (perfectly located for glacier hiking in Vatnajökull National Park and visiting the glacier lagoons).

Step 7: Book bucket list tours and activities in advance.

Glacier hikes, snorkeling between tectonic plates , soaking in the famous Blue Lagoon, riding Icelandic horses: many of the absolute best things to do in Iceland require booking a tour or ticket!

And, like rental cars and hotels, tours and activities have a tendency to sell out in the summer.

If there are any bucket-list Iceland experiences you want to make sure you don’t miss, be sure to book them when planning your Iceland trip!

Here are a few popular options that are great to book in advance:

Silfra Snorkeling Tour — Want to snorkel between Europe and North America?

Iceland is the only place you can, and we will never forget this incredibly unique experience !

Glacier Hiking in Skafatell National Park — Hiking on a glacier is one of the most incredible experiences in Iceland, and we loved this tour .

Blue Lagoon — The Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous places in Iceland, and you can’t simply show up for the day–especially during the summer.

South Iceland Day Trip — Basing yourself in Reykjavik and don’t want to drive during your first time in Iceland?

This popular day trip will show you Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and beyond.

Step 8: Make a packing list (and shop).

More than most destinations, packing for Iceland requires some advance planning!

The country’s extreme climate paired with the fact that most people who plan a trip to Iceland are planning to do things they’ve never done before–like a hike on a glacier , perhaps–means that you’ll likely want to purchase some gear before taking off!

While you can certainly find most of what you would need in cities like Reykjavik and Akureyri, most of the best places to visit in Iceland are quite rural, with few stores around.

And, Iceland is not exactly a budget-friendly place to shop!

A detailed breakdown of what to pack for Iceland requires a whole other blog post (and packing for Iceland in winter is even more intense), but here are a few things we recommend bringing:

Travel Adaptors for Iceland — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics!

Waterproof Jacket — Mine is no longer available but is similar to this popular jacket , and Jeremy loved this one in Iceland.

Sleep Mask — Midnight sun during the summer in Iceland is no joke, and a sleep mask is a must!

I don’t typically like to wear sleep masks, but I was so glad to have one during our summer trip to Iceland.

Lonely Planet Iceland — We don’t use travel guides in every destination, but in rural, widespread, land-of-confusing-spellings Iceland, we loved having one!

Waterproof Pants — Perfect for hiking on glaciers with! I use these ; Jeremy uses these .

Waterproof Boots — There’s nothing like having warm and dry feet! I adore these boots and have been wearing them for years.

Reusable Water Bottle — Avoid plastic waste, cut your expenses, and enjoy even more of Iceland’s fantastic tap water. Win/win/win.

Step 9: Purchase travel insurance for your trip to Iceland.

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance when planning a trip to Iceland!

While Iceland is an incredibly safe country to travel in, traveling in general opens you up to vulnerabilities you simply don’t have at home.

If you lose your luggage, have a fender bender in your rental car, get pickpocketed, or–heaven forbid–get injured, you’ll be glad you have the insurance.

Given how inexpensive travel insurance is when purchased in advance (especially as compared to the cost of flying to and then renting a car in Iceland), we consider it well worth the investment.

However, that being said, travel insurance companies have been about as prone to changing requirements over the last couple of years as borders have been.

Safety Wing is generally considered a reliable option, but be sure to double and triple-check coverages for any travel insurance policy these days, especially if you’re looking for protection from COVID-19-related issues.

Check travel insurance prices and coverage for your Iceland vacation now!

Step 10: Make an arrival plan for your trip to Iceland.

Once you finally finish planning your trip to Iceland and board your plane bound for the Land of Fire and Ice, you’ll still have one final logistical hurdle to overcome before kicking off your adventures: getting from the airport to wherever you’re going next.

For many travelers, that will mean walking or hopping the shuttle over to whatever rental car office they’re using (that’s what we’ve done).

However, if you’re not renting a car on the day you arrive in Iceland, you’ll likely still need to get from the airport to the center of town, which is about a 45-minute drive (there isn’t a train).

Bus transfers like this are the most popular and economical option to get from KEF to central Reykjavik for those who aren’t driving.

If you’re looking to splurge as you put your Iceland travel plan into action, though, private transfers like this are also available and will get you to your hotel faster.

Both options have their pros and cons, but the time to decide isn’t when you’re jetlagged, exhausted, and desperate to be done traveling.

A little advance planning can go a long way, and ensure you step off the plane confident that you’ve planned the perfect first Iceland trip!

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “Planning a Trip to Iceland for the First Time (Your Easy 10-Step Checklist!)”

Thank you for your Iceland guides! The info is incredibly helpful as we opted for a DIY trip instead of booking a pre-planned tour. We are heading out in Oct. Since we are native Minnesotans :-), we should be able to handle the weather (fingers crossed). Thanks again! I look forward to checking your guides to other destinations.

That’s wonderful to hear, thank you, Elaine!

I suspect you guys will definitely be just fine with the weather. 😉

Have a fantastic trip!

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5 Days in Iceland: The Perfect Iceland Itinerary for Any Time of Year

Last updated: March 24, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 74 Comments

Iceland has quickly become one of our favorite countries to explore. It has beautiful landscapes, stunning waterfalls (I love waterfalls!), warm thermal pools to bask in, and a fascinating history and culture.

In this post, I’m going to share with you a suggested Iceland itinerary for five days in Iceland, which has you driving yourself on an epic Iceland road trip.

Iceland is generally an easy country to get around, either on a self-drive road trip like the one in this post, or as part of a group tour . And whilst this Iceland itinerary is for a self-drive trip; if you would prefer not to drive, you have other options.

I’ve provided further details after the itinerary for all your options on how to do this itinerary without driving yourself, which you should definitely check out.

If you have a little longer in Iceland, check out our seven day Iceland itinerary , which covers a few more highlights, and is aimed at those visiting in winter.

We also have a shorter three day Iceland itinerary if you have a bit less time, as well as a complete Iceland ring road itinerary .

We’d also recommend reading this post in conjunction with our guide to planning a trip to Iceland , which has lots of practical information on travelling in Iceland including detailed planning steps and practicalities.

For now though, let’s get started with our suggested Iceland itinerary for 5 days.

5 Days in Iceland: An Iceland Itinerary

This detailed itinerary goes into each day in detail with all the key highlights you’ll want to see, and each day is then followed by some recommended accommodation options for that night.

Day 1: Reykjavik

It is likely that you’re going be arriving in Iceland at Keflavik International Airport, which is where most international visitors to Iceland arrive.

Here, you can either pick up a hire car directly, or take an airport shuttle transfer into the city centre, and pick your car up on Day 2. Waiting an extra day may save you a bit of money, and you are unlikely to need a hire car to explore Reykjavik.

A quick note if you are looking for car rental providers in Iceland. We recommend you either check out Discover Cars here , or Northbound here .

Discover Cars compare a number of providers in the country so you can find the best price for you.

Northbound is based in Iceland, and they also search a range of providers with the added advantage that you can add the various insurances that are unique to Iceland should you so choose. This can help avoid the hard sell that you will otherwise likely get for these insurances at the checkout counter when you pick up your car.

See more on insurance in Iceland, plus general advice for driving in the country, in our tips for driving in Iceland post . Back to the itinerary!

If you want to visit the Blue Lagoon , Iceland’s most famous thermal baths, then doing this on the way from the airport is an excellent idea as it’s closer to the airport than the city centre.

In fact, many companies offer a transfer service to and from the airport that includes a stop at the Blue Lagoon. Also consider the Sky Lagoon , which is closer to the city centre.

Both of these lagoons are popular and need to be booked in advance. You can book the Blue Lagoon here and the Sky Lagoon here .

Otherwise, we’d suggest you spend a bit of time sightseeing in Reykjavik. There’s a lot to see in the city, including the beautiful Hallgrimskirkja Church , which has a wonderful view from the top, and the Sun Voyager statue , which makes for some fun photo opportunities.

There are also a number of museums, lots of restaurants and bars, and probably the best nightlife in Iceland if you want to start your Iceland trip off with a bang!

If you do plan on visiting some of the museums and sights in the city, consider a Reykjavik city card . A 24 hour card is good value and gets you free access to many of the cities top attractions, as well as free public transport on the city bus services.

If you’d prefer to head straight out of town on your first day, and are desperate to fit as much as possible into your itinerary as possible, check out my optional addition of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula at the end of this section as an alternative.

Where to Stay

We recommend overnighting in Reykjavik on your first night in Iceland. Some options to consider include:

• Grand Hotel,  around 1.2 miles from the city center, offering four star accommodation, free wifi, spa & fitness center and free parking. We’ve stayed here.
• Reyjkavik Natura Icelandair Hotel , near the city airport, this hotel offers free parking, a free city bus pass to all guests, on-site restaurant and spa facilities. We’ve stayed here.
• Guesthouse Galtafell  – A good value option around ten minutes walk from the city center and quick walk from the BSI bus station. Offers both guest rooms in the main house as well as apartments that come with a small kitchenette. We’ve stayed here.
• Galaxy Pod Hostel – this well located hostel offers dormitory accommodation with a twist – each bed is in a self-contained pod, offering more privacy than a normal hostel. Pods vary in standard, but most come with TV’s, power and WiFi.

If you’d prefer to stay near the airport, we’ve also stayed at the  Northern Light Inn . This is conveniently located right next to the Blue Lagoon and is about a 17 minute drive from airport.

Travellers on more of a budget will like The Base by Keflavik airport , which offers both hotel and hostel style accommodation, as well as an airport shuttle.

See more lodging options in Reykjavik on booking.com here .

Day 2: Golden Circle

From Reykjavik you’re going to head to one of Iceland’s most iconic road trips – the Golden Circle .

There are three must-visit stops on the golden circle. These are Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park , the Geysir Hot Springs Area , and the mighty Gullfoss waterfall.

Thingvellir is interesting to visit for a number of reasons, both culturally and geologically. It was the site of the first Icelandic parliament, and as such, there is a lot of to see here that involves the history and culture of Iceland.

Thingvellir is also the location of the continental divide, and you can actually see the split between the continents here, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, even snorkel between them !

From Thingvellir, the next stop on the Golden Circle is the Geysir Hot Springs area. This is home to “Geysir”, the original geyser from where the word in English comes from. There are lots of bubbling mud pools as well as regularly erupting geyser’s here.

Finally, the last major stop on the Golden Circle trip is Gulfoss waterfall. This is a wide, multi-tiered waterfall that has a tremendous volume of water flowing over it, and will not fail to impress.

There are a number of viewing locations to enjoy the falls from, as well as an on site café and information centre. A spectacular sight at any time of year.

For your second night we recommend accommodation on or near the Golden Circle. We’d suggest somewhere near Fludir specifically. Options to consider include:

• Farmhotel Efstidalur – as the name suggests this is found on a farm. Private rooms are en-suite and there’s an on-site geothermal hot tub
• Fludir Icelandair Hotel  – We stayed here on one trip to Iceland and it was very comfortable, with an on-site restaurant.
• Garður Stay Inn by the Secret Lagoon – well reviewed and handy for Fludir’s “Secret Lagoon”, a lovely geothermal bath
• River Hotel – located by the Ranga River next to the town of Hella, this hotel offers dining, an open-air hot tub, bar and free wifi.
• Midgard basecamp – found in Hvolsvöllur, this highly rated hostel is a great budget option with a hot tub

See more lodging options on booking.com here .

Day 3: South Coast to Vik

For your third day in Iceland, you’re going to start to head along the beautiful south coast. This is a magnificent stretch of road, with a great many attractions to enjoy, and you are going to have an incredible time exploring it.

A quick note here about staying safe on the road in Iceland. You’re going to see a lot of amazing sights as you drive along here, but it’s important you stay safe, and only pull over in proper parking spaces.

Stopping on the side of the road can be really dangerous, and there’s quite a bit of traffic on the ring road , so please don’t do it. It’s not worth endangering your life for a photo, however cute that horse may be!

Ok, lecture over. The first highlight on the road you drive along here is going to be Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This is a beautiful sixty metre high waterfall that you can actually walk behind, and is a stunning photography opportunity. Easily one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland, and almost unique in that you can walk behind it.

Note that there is a parking fee for parking at Seljalandsfoss (24 hours a day, 7 days a week), which is enforced by on site wardens. At time of writing this was 700 krona, payable by credit card.

Next up is less well known waterfall hidden right next to Seljalandsfoss. Whilst Seljalandsfoss and the below Skogafoss tend to get all the waterfall glory on this stretch of road, there are a couple more waterfalls the more discerning Iceland visitor might want to check out.

The first of these is Gljúfrabúi, a waterfall hidden in a canyon just a short distance from Seljalandsfoss.

To access it, you just have to walk across the river, and follow the path along the cliff. After a fairly short walk, you’ll come to the canyon that holds Gljúfrabúi.

To actually access the waterfall, you’ll have to wade up the stream, but the view is worth it if you’re brave enough – although be prepared to be coated in water from the spray!

The next major stop on the south coast is Skogafoss. This is a thunderous sixty meter high waterfall that is much wider than Seljalandsfoss, and is truly dramatic.

You can get very close to the base of the falls for dramatic photos (just be aware you’re going to get very wet), or you can climb the many steps up to the top of the falls for another viewpoint.

The other less well known waterfall in this area is Kvernufoss. This is also quite easy to find – just park at the Skogar Museum (same turn off Route 1 as Skogafoss), and follow the path across the field to the falls. Like Seljalandsfoss, you can also walk behind Kvernufoss – although be prepared to get wet!

A little further east from Skogafoss is the famous Iceland plane wreck . This will eat up a couple of hours of your day because it takes a while to get to, so unless you are a keen photographer (or don’t mind a long day!), you might want to skip this. Still, I’ve put it in here so you know where to find it.

The next stop on the south coast route is Dyrhólaey. This is a peninsula that juts out into the sea, and from the top you have fantastic views of a beautiful stretch of black sand beach with, on a clear day at least, the towering mountains of Eyjafjallajökull glacier volcano in the background.

Dyrhólaey is also home to a massive rock arch, which is worth the drive up the quite terrifyingly steep dirt road. Note that you can park at the bottom and hike up if you would prefer not to tackle it, and 4WD vehicles are advised for this section of track. From May – July, you may also be lucky enough to spot puffins on the cliffs here.

Just a short drive along from Dyrhólaey you’ll find the popular stop of Reynisfjara Beach. Here, black basalt columns meet the black sand beach, and you can also see a series of rock stacks out to sea. This is a beautifully wild part of Iceland and quite a unique photography opportunity.

Finally, our third day on our five day Iceland itinerary will come to an end at the town of Vik.

This is a nice little town with a beautiful church and lovely sea views. We suggest you overnight here, or depending hotel availability, at the town of Klaustur a little further east along the road.

We recommend staying in either Klaustur or Vik . Our suggestion is to book two nights and return to the same hotel on day 4 to save the hassle of unpacking and repacking. Options to consider include:

• The Barn – this is a well reviewed and popular hostel in Vik, offering both dormitory accommodation and private rooms
• Hotel Vík í Mýrdal – found just 450 yards from the black sand beach in Vik, this is a well rated hotel offering private en-suite rooms
• Hunkubakkar Guesthouse  – a family run guesthouse found five miles from Kirkjubæjarklaustur. WiFi, on-site restaurant and cute colourful cottages.
• Icelandair Hotel in Klaustur – a modern hotel in Klaustur, with simple but comfortable rooms. We’ve stayed here and had a pleasant experience

See more options in Vik here and Klaustur here .

Day 4: Vik to Jokulsarlon

The fourth day of our five day Iceland itinerary is going to cover some more beautiful waterfalls and canyons, as well as an iceberg filled lagoon and a glacier! Let’s get going.

The first stop on the day will be the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, which is just outside Klaustur. This is a two kilometer long canyon which is 100 metres deep, and offers spectacular views of the river winding through it. You may want to do some hiking here.

To get here, just follow road 206 off Route 1 towards Lakagígar. Follow this for a while then at the intersection, turn left away from Lakagígar, The road is gravel but easy to drive.

Our next stop of the day is Svartifoss , or the black falls, about an hours drive east along Route 1. These falls tumble magnificently over black basalt columns, and are found in the  Skaftafell / Vatnajökull National Park .

It’s about a 1 hour round-trip to the falls, but we think you’ll agree that it’s worth the effort for the view.

The national park also has a parking fee for vehicles, which you can pay by card at the visitor centre, or by cash with the reception staff.

A little way on from the turning to Svartifoss on Route 1 is the turning for the viewpoint of the Svínafellsjökull Glacier.

Here, you can get very close to the tongue of this glacier, and see the incredible blue shades of ice. Just don’t be tempted to go for a walk on the glacier itself – if you want to do that sort of thing, you definitely want to take a tour with a qualified glacier guide.

Our final stop for the day is going to be two fold – the Jökulsárlón Lagoon, and the Diamond Beach.

Jökulsárlón Lagoon is a lagoon formed from the meltwater of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, and is the deepest lake in Iceland.

Here, icebergs from the glacier bob around the lagoon, usually for around five years, before they either disappear or float out to sea. If you visit Iceland in the summer months, you can take a boat tour on this lagoon and get up close to the glacier itself.

Across the highway from Jökulsárlón is the final stop on our day – the Diamond Beach. This is where those icebergs often end up – strewn along the beach just like diamonds.

This is a truly incredible sight, and a wonderful photography location . A perfect place to end the day, perhaps with the sunset (depending on the time of year you visit of course!).

Finally, we suggest you turn back and cover some of the distance back to Reykjavik, with a suggested overnight at Klaustur or Vik.

Day 4 Accommodation:  Same as Day 3.

Day 5: Vik to Reykjavik

Our final day has you retracing your steps on the way back to Reykjavik. This is a good chance to get any photos you missed at any of the highlights when travelling in the opposite direction – perhaps due to the weather, or maybe you just ran out of time.

We’d also suggest on your way back to Iceland that you stop off at some of the fishing villages along the way, which are quite picturesque. For example, the towns of Eyarbakki and Stokkseyri are only a short detour.

If you have the time, you can also drive road 427 around the Keflavik peninsula – this is a pretty drive that is less popular, and takes you past the beautiful Strandakirkja church, which is well worth the visit. If you didn’t visit the Blue Lagoon on your first day, you could also do it on your fifth day.

Finally, this five day Iceland itinerary has you back in Reykjavik for your final night.

We recommend overnighting in Reykjavik on your final night. Our recommended options include:

Optional Alternative: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

If you want to skip Reykjavik on your first or last days in Iceland, and really want to pack as much sight-seeing in as possible, then you could consider heading up to the beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula for a day.

This would be better suited to a longer itinerary – such as our seven day Iceland itinerary – but would be possible if you wanted to squeeze it in.

This part of Iceland is home to a number of sights and attractions, and there’s a lot to see here.

We’d suggest you include the Gerðuberg basalt columns, the Vatnshellir lava cave, the fantastic Kirkjufell mountain and, for the brave amongst you, a trip to the Shark Museum at Bjarnarhofn.

At the Shark Museum you can sample an Icelandic delicacy – fermented shark meat. It’s an acquired taste that, I must admit, we didn’t quite acquire.

There’s easily enough to do on the peninsula to fill a whole day.

Accommodation:  If you choose to stay overnight on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, we stayed at Guesthouse Hof . For additional options, you can see lodging options on booking.com here .

Iceland Road Trip Map

To help you visualise this trip, we’ve put together this map which highlights the route we suggest you take, as well all the attractions we’ve mentioned. You can also see this map directly on Google Maps here .

5 Day Iceland Itinerary Road Trip Overview

Here’s an overview of each day and the main attractions you’ll be experiencing.

• Day 1 : Reykjavik. Blue Lagoon, Hallgrimskirkja Church, Sun Voyager statue
• Day 2 : Golden Circle. Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs Area, Gullfoss waterfall
• Day 3 : South Coast to Vik. Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi, Skogafoss, Kvernufoss, Iceland plane wreck, Dyrhólaey, Reynisfjara Beach, Vik
• Day 4 : Vik to Jokulsarlon and back to Vik. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Svartifoss, Svínafellsjökull Glacier, Jökulsárlón Lagoon, Diamond Beach
• Day 5 : Vik to Reykjavik. Eyrarbakki, Stokkseyri

How To Book Your Iceland Trip

For a self-drive Iceland road trip like the one we mentioned, you have a couple of options. You can book everything yourself, including the hire car ( compare prices here ) and hotels (see hotels here ). This will give you lots of flexibility, but is of course more work on your part.

Another option is to book a self-drive trip. On one of our trips to Iceland we did a self-drive trip for eight days with this company , and all our hotels, the hire car and all our breakfasts were included as part of the package.

Another company to consider is Northbound, an Icelandic operator who specialise in car rental but who have expanded their services to include comprehensive trip planning. They can help you customize a tour to meet your exact needs, a process you can start here . Feel free to send them this blog post and ask them to help you plan a similar trip!

You can also see self-drive trips on TourRadar here and on Guide to Iceland here , both of which offer a variety of tours from different companies in Iceland.

You can also often work with companies to add a day or customize tours a bit and obviously self-drive tours are pretty flexible as only your hotels, car, and any tours are booked so you can always detour a bit from the suggested itinerary.

When you’re planning your Iceland trip, we recommend you take a look at our guide to planning a trip to Iceland , which has lots more information to help you plan the perfect Iceland adventure!

Do I Have to Drive in Iceland?

Our 5 day Iceland itinerary is for a self-drive road-trip, and we have a guide to driving in Iceland here to help you prepare.

However, if you’d prefer not to drive in Iceland, there are other ways to get around and still see everything you want to see. Here are some options.

Day trips from Reykjavik

One option would be to base yourself in Reykjavik, and do a series of day trips with a tour operator. We have a guide to the best day trips from Reyjkavik that will give you ideas for all the things you can do.

In terms of matching the five day Iceland itinerary on this page, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding tours that cover all the highlights.

Our suggestion would be to take a full day Golden Circle tour and a full day south shore tour , both of which run year-round. You could also add in a Snaefellsnes Peninsula day trip , and if you’re visiting in winter, a trip to see the Northern Lights is a must.

There are a number of different options for many of these day tours – check out all the day tours on Get Your Guide for more ideas.

Bus Passports in Iceland

Another option is to look into a bus passport. These let you travel around the country on a tour bus, choosing where you want to get on and off. This can be a cost effective way to get around, and they stop at almost all of the tourist highlights in Iceland, depending on the itinerary you choose. However they are only an option from June to August.

Group Tours of Iceland

Finally, you should definitely consider a multi-day group or private tour if you don’t want to drive yourself in Iceland.

These will feature a driver and transport, accommodation and the majority of your meals, and will likely be one of the easiest options for sight-seeing in Iceland. You can let someone else handle all the logistics whilst you focus on just enjoying yourself.

Of course, you will be travelling to a fixed itinerary, and it won’t be as flexible as a self-drive trip, but it is a great option if you’d prefer to hand over the responsibility of planning and driving to someone else.

For our five-day Iceland itinerary, we’d suggest you take a look at the following tours.

• This 6 day tour which includes a lava cava, blue ice cave, south coast, golden circle and the Blue Lagoon
• This five day tour which includes an ice cave, golden circle, south coast and Snaefellsnes peninsula
• This 4 day tour which includes the south coast, golden circle and Snaefellsnes peninsula

These are just a small fraction of the tours available. We suggest you take a look at the group tour section of GetYourGuide , Viator , TourRadar , Guide to Iceland , and G Adventures for inspiration. Just input the time of year you are visiting, how long you are visiting for and the areas you are interested in, to see what’s available.

When looking for a group tour, always look beyond the advertised price and see what is included in a tour. A more expensive tour that includes meals and attraction entry might work out to be better value than a lower priced tour that excludes these extras.

We’ve also got a guide to some of the best multi-day guided tours of Iceland to give you an idea of what’s available for everything from 2 days two weeks, across a variety of price points, which is a great starting point.

Add-ons to your Iceland Trip

Regardless of how you choose to travel in Iceland, we think there are a few addons you will likely enjoy to experience the country at it’s fullest.

Year-Round Activities

When you visit Thingvellir National Park, a popular activity is to go snorkelling in the Silfra Fissure. This is a fairly unique experience, and lets you see the gap between the continents from a whole new angle as you float through the crystal-clear waters. This activity is available throughout the year, with dry suits issued to keep you warm.

This can be done either as a day trip from Reykjavik (see here for details ), or you can arrange to do it on site. We’d highly recommend you book in advance.

Another popular year-round activity in Iceland is whale watching.  Tours depart from a number of locations in Iceland, including Reykjavik, Grundarfjordur and Husavik, so wherever your Iceland trip takes you, you should be able to fit in some whale watching.

You can see whale watching tour options and book in advance online here .

Summer Activities in Iceland

In summer, we think you’re definitely going to want to take a trip on the Jökulsárlón Lagoon. This will let you see the beauty of the glacier up close, as well as have the experience of getting up close to the icebergs in the lake.

There are a number of tour options available, including a Zodiac Boat tour and an Amphibious Boat tour . Whichever you choose, we recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment on the day.

One of the thrills of being in Iceland in summer is to experience the midnight sun – a time when it never really gets dark. There are a number of tours that capitalise on this experience, including this fun midnight sun ATV tour .

If you like wildlife watching, as well as whale tours, you can also go on wildlife watching tours to see all sorts of wildlife from seals to puffins and other birdlife. There’s a full list of wildlife tours you can take here – most of these only run over the summer when the wildlife is more active.

Winter Activities in Iceland

In Winter, we think you absolutely have to make the effort to try and see the aurora borealis, or the northern lights. If you’re driving yourself, you just need to find a spot away from city lights with a good view of the sky, and hope for clear conditions and high solar activity. The Icelandic Met Office website has an excellent tool to help you find the northern lights.

If you’re in Reykjavik, there are lots of tour operators who offer northern lights tours . This is a good way to see the northern lights, as the drivers will know the best places to go, and the tours will usually only go if there is a high chance of seeing the lights.

If you are planning on seeing the lights, see our guide to how to photograph the northern lights so you are fully prepared to get some great images.

There are plenty more opportunities for adventure in Iceland in winter, from skiing, to snowmobiling to horse-riding. For more inspiration, check out our detailed guide to winter activities in Iceland .

When to Visit Iceland

In our experience, Iceland is a good country to visit at any time of year, with advantages and disadvantages to both times of year. Summer is definitely the most popular and when most people visit and the most attractions are open and the best months to drive in Iceland.

This itinerary on this page works well for both summer and winter in Iceland, as it doesn’t include any serious mountain roads which may be closed in the winter months.

Visiting Iceland in winter holds the advantage that prices are lower, there are less people visiting and finding accommodation will be easier. It’s also the best time to see the northern lights, which can’t be seen during the summer months.

Disadvantages of visiting Iceland in winter are that there will be much less daylight available, driving conditions can be more challenging (we strongly recommend a 4×4 vehicle with studded tires), and some attractions and tours might not be open or running. It will also be colder!

If you decide to visit Iceland in winter, do check out our Iceland winter packing guide for tips on what to bring, as well as our guide to all the best winter activities in Iceland for inspiration.

Summer in Iceland brings with it very long days, a bit more warmth, and lush green landscapes. The advantages are long hours of daylight, warmer weather and better driving conditions. More tours and attractions are also going to be open.

The disadvantages of visiting Iceland in summer are that prices will be much higher, there will be many more tourists and it can be harder to find accommodation. If you visit during the time of the midnight sun, you might also find it hard to sleep – we highly recommend packing an eye mask to block out the light, as hotels don’t often have black out blinds.

Where to Stay in Iceland?

Iceland has a wide range of accommodation options, from farm stays, vacation rentals and B&B’s through to higher end full service hotels. We’ve included links to where we stayed for each day of the above itinerary, and you can also check out  Iceland’s listings on booking.com  for a full range of options.

Booking.com are usually our preferred option when we travel, as they have everything from hotels to apartments and hostels. They have a massive choice, and the user review system makes it easier to find good properties.

We have also used apartment rentals platforms like Vrbo in Iceland. We prefer to use these for longer stays though, we think that for short one night stops, especially on a road trip where arrival times can vary, the requirement to sometimes arrange arrival times with a host can be a problematic. Still, it can be an option.

We also use a number of other sites like Vrbo, check out our full guide to AirBnB alternatives  right here.

Further Reading to Help you Prepare for your Trip to Iceland

And that sums up our guide to spending 5 days in Iceland! Hopefully you’ve found this post useful. We’re continuing to add more content about Iceland from our experiences travelling in this beautiful country, so check back often for more. In the meantime, we think you’ll find the following resources useful for planning your Iceland trip:

• We’ve put together a detailed guide to help you  plan your Iceland trip,  which has everything you could need to help you plan an awesome adventure in Iceland, from budget tips to practical information and more. A must read and a good place to start your trip planning!
• If you choose to do this self-drive trip in Iceland in winter, check out our detailed guide to driving in Iceland in winter to help prepare yourself. We also have a general guide to driving in Iceland .
• Fans of the TV show Game of Thrones will want to check out our full guide to all the Game of Thrones locations in Iceland
• We’ve created a list of some of our  favourite photography locations in Iceland  from our travels there to give you some ideas of where to aim to get the best photos
• Our guide to finding the Iceland Plane crash , which is a fun photography location (if a bit of a walk to get to!)
• We have a full guide to Iceland’s Golden Circle
• For a longer trip Jess has put together a detailed post outlining a  seven day Iceland itinerary  to give you some route ideas. Even if you are planning more or less time, this detailed guide can help you figure out where to go. We also have a full  Iceland ring road itinerary .
• If you’re visiting Iceland in Winter, check out our guide to the  best winter activities in Iceland  and my  tips for cold weather photography
• On a budget? Here’s a guide to visiting Iceland on a budget to help you make the most of your trip
• We have a guide to visiting the Blue Lagoon
• We have a detailed packing guide to help you decide  what to pack for Iceland
• If you are interested in seeing Puffins in Iceland, check out our detailed guide to Puffins in Iceland , which has everything you need to know!
• We’ve also got a guide to the  best day trips from Reykjavik  should you wish to base yourself in the capital
• The weather in Iceland can be fickle – the best website for real-time cloud cover is  this one from the Icelandic Met Office .
• Whilst Iceland is a safe country to travel in when it comes to things like crime, the country itself is home to extreme conditions and all sorts of seismic activity. So to stay safe as you go, check out the  safetravel Iceland page
• Finally, if you’re not sure what camera gear to take with, take a look at both our guide to  picking a travel camera , and our personal  travel photography gear

And that’s it! Is Iceland on your list, or have you already visited? Is there anywhere you’d add to our list, or any questions at all about travelling in Iceland? We’re happy to help out – just pop your thoughts and feedback in the comments below!

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4th May 2023 at 3:16 pm

We are under the gun for hotels for the week 6/24-6/30. We are booked in Reykjavik 2 nights- 6/24 & 25. Based on your itinerary, is it best to spend 2 nights near Vik, or 2 nights Gulfloss? Our last night (night 6) is near the airport as we have very early flt on 6/30. We’re trying to figure out if we should start south in Vik (after leaving Reykjavik) and head north to Gulfloss or vise versa, and which area is best for the itinerary you suggest. Sure hope that makes sense. Thanks

Laurence Norah says

4th May 2023 at 6:24 pm

So I would probably say being closer to Vik will probably make more sense for those two nice, as otherwise you’re going to be having a very long drive to get out to the south coast highlights. So that would be my recommendation. You can easily do the Golden Circle as a day trip from Reykjavik if that makes things easier?

3rd April 2023 at 6:13 am

We will be arriving in Iceland on Sept 10 (early morning on an overnight flight) and departing Sept 16 (12:10 am) over to mainland Europe. With these dates are we looking at more of the summer itinerary? What adjustments to that as we will be later in season? Any chance that we will have a chance to see the Northern Lights? Thanks and lots of great information

3rd April 2023 at 10:54 am

Yes, September would be more of a summer time itinerary for sure. The advantage of September is that you do indeed have a chance of seeing the Northern Lights, although of course it will be weather dependent and dependent on solar activity. Honestly you shouldn’t need to adjust the itinerary a great deal, it should be pretty much ready to go as it is, although of course we always recommend tweaking based on your own interests 🙂

Have an amazing time in Iceland and let me know if you have any more questions!

12th February 2023 at 6:41 pm

Hi, your site is wonderful and very helpful. We are hoping to go to Iceland at the end of May. My son has allergies and very hard to cater for so we need self catering. Do you have any suggestions for self catering? If not do you think your 5/6 day itinerary would be possible from staying in one or two self catering accommodation and if so where would we need to base ourselves? We understand this would involve a bit more driving. Would it still work as a great adventure with an 8 and 13 year old? Many thanks Sarah

13th February 2023 at 10:34 am

Thanks very much! So we have stayed in accommodation with basic self-catering facilities (more like a kitchenette though than a full self-catered set up). That said, there are certainly lots of options on the main apartment rental sites. My suggestion might be to base yourself in Reykjavik for three nights and around Vik for two nights. I think you should be able to find a self-catering option easily in Reykjavik at least, and then Vik should also have some options. It’s worth bearing in mind that the most comprehensive supermarkets are going to be in Reykjavik so that is where I’d recommend doing the most of our shopping, especially as you have specific requirements.

I hope this helps, let me know if I can offer any more advice, and have an amazing time in Iceland with your family 🙂

19th September 2022 at 6:04 pm

Im sorry if you already answered this question…But can this itinerary be done with a 2 wheel drive vehicle or will there be F Roads that require 4×4? Thank you for all of your advice!

19th September 2022 at 6:56 pm

This can definitely be done with a normal 2 wheel drive vehicle. The only tricky bit might be the drive up to Dyrholaey, last time I did that the road was a bit steep and unpaved, but it is possible in a two wheel drive car. The route doesn’t include any F roads 🙂

Have a great time in Iceland!

20th January 2023 at 4:55 pm

I’ve been reading your website all afternoon – it’s a fantastic resource, thank you. Would a normal 2WD vehicle be okay in late Feb/early March? We’re travelling with my parents and our little girl (who will have her 4th birthday in Iceland!) next month. 🙂 Thank you.

23rd January 2023 at 2:21 pm

Thanks very much! So snow and ice is definitely still possible at that time of year, but the car rental should come with winter tyres. So 4wd is only something you might want for peace of mind, it won’t necessarily be needed. The roads are good and regularly cleared,especially those used by visitors. We have always had a 4wd in winter (even if it’s an estate style car) but it’s a personal choice rather than a necessity.

Have a great time in Iceland, happy birthday to your daughter, and do let me know if you have any further questions!

Diego Alexandre says

29th August 2022 at 2:34 pm

Hi Laurence,

All your posts have been really helpful. I am traveling to Iceland from Saturdar afternoon (2 pm) to Friday morning (really early morning).

Therefore I was following your five day trip, i already book the hotels and I realized that I have one more day free. Could you please provide a recommendation on what to add to the trip considering that I already booked the trip and hotels as you recommend it. Thanks!

29th August 2022 at 2:48 pm

Sure thing, and I’m glad you found our posts helpful. If you are following the main itinerary, then my suggestion would be to spend the extra day visiting the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which you can definitely do as a day trip. If you have a car it’s easy to do, alternatively there are a number of day trips which visit it.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have additional questions 🙂

29th August 2022 at 3:29 pm

Thanks for your prompt respond. So if I was leaving from Vik to Reykjavic on day 5, I should instead go from Vik´s hotel to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula for the whole day. After that, where should go and where should I stay (hotel) that fifth day. On the sixth day I will go to Reykjavic. Any attractions that you recommend in that Peninsula? Thanks!

29th August 2022 at 3:42 pm

Yes, that would probably be the best option. There’s lots to see on Snaefellsnes, but highlights for us were the Gerðuberg basalt columns, the Vatnshellir lava cave, Kirkjufell mountain and the Shark Museum at Bjarnarhofn.

We have some more tips and also suggestions on where to stay in our 7 day Iceland itinerary . If you check out the section for Day 3 it has some recommended htels and an itinerary for the day as well 🙂

Have a great trip, let me know if you have any more questions!

4th July 2022 at 11:49 pm

Dear Laurence and Jessica, I just wanted to say thanks for your blog! I just returned from a 5 day trip to Iceland and pretty much followed your itinerary, which worked out great.

5th July 2022 at 10:44 am

We are glad to hear you had a great time, and thank you so much for taking the time to come by after your trip and let us know. It is much appreciated!

Safe travels 🙂

Lars Kaa Andersen says

13th June 2020 at 9:17 pm

Hi, I really liked your 5 days suggestion❤. We have 6 days available and would love to do a full day house riding. Do you have a recommendation for this? Much appreciated. Kind regards, Lars

14th June 2020 at 11:11 am

This is a great question. We only did a little bit of horse riding near Akureyri, so don’t have first hand experience of a company. However, the following have good reviews:

– this tour from Reykjavik is suitable for beginners and advanced riders – this is another full day tour from Reykjavik which is suitable for beginners and advanced riders

One thing to note is that most of the full day experiences seem to involve a more beginner section in the morning and a more advanced section in the afternoon. So I am not sure what your experience level is, or if you were looking to spend the whole day riding, in which case you might want to contact a provider directly and try to arrange a private session, although this will be more expensive.

15th June 2020 at 12:13 pm

Many thanks Laurence, much appreciated.

Mirela says

4th February 2020 at 6:29 pm

Thanks so much for the wonderful information. My family is planning a trip to Iceland from June 9-15, 2020 and we will follow your guide. We would like to have an ice cave tour though, if possible. Would we be able to book such a tour in June? Many thanks, Mirela.

4th February 2020 at 6:44 pm

Delighted to have been able to help. So the main ice cave season in Iceland is in winter, from around November through to March. This is when those really blue ice caves are accessible, and this is when most ice cave tours run.

However, there are a couple of ice caves you can visit in winter, including Katla ice cave (see this tour for example ) and this combination glacier hike and ice cave tour .

So yes, it is possible 🙂

Lucy Rinaldi says

30th September 2019 at 7:28 pm

Do you have a printable version of this article? I found it has a wealth of information and I’ve used it to set up our trip to Iceland in 10 days’ time – but I’d love to be able to take it with us so we don’t miss out on anything! Thanks for writing it.

30th September 2019 at 8:49 pm

Thanks very much 🙂 We don’t have a printable version per se – most browsers have built in printing capabilities, which should work. It is something we do get requested from time to time, I just haven’t figured out how to implement it. Is there a specific format you would want the post to be in to make it more printer friendly?

30th September 2019 at 9:21 pm

If I press Print in my browser, it tells me that it will take 82 sheets of paper!!!! The problem is that you have all the beautiful photos – and of course all the adverts. Ideally, a printable version would just be the words, without the pictures. If you had a link to a pdf of the words, that would be perfect.

30th September 2019 at 9:51 pm

That is an awful lot of paper. I will definitely have to put this further up my to-do list as an option, thanks for the feedback!

14th October 2019 at 9:43 pm

So I have taken your feedback to heart and there is now a “print” icon in the floating share button to the side of the post when you view it on desktop. I’ve just implemented this, but hopefully it should give you a version of the post without ads and images 🙂 Most browsers let you print to PDF from the Print menu.

We’re going to make this button more obvious and probably tidy the wording up a bit, but hopefully this should get you what you were looking for in the meantime! Any feedback, let me know 🙂

I appreciate your trip has already started…

Shelley says

8th September 2019 at 5:30 am

Dear Laurence and Jessica,

We just got back from our 5 day trip to Iceland and I just wanted to thank you so very, very much for all your incredible information. I used everything you said to create a fantastic self-drive itinerary for us and we saw everything on the southern border. Our 15 and 23 year old boys loved the snorkling and the raft trip at Jökulsárlón the best, but we loved it all and plan to return to see the north. Just loved your site. So kind and helpful of you to do this! Thanks again!! Happy travels to you!

8th September 2019 at 10:24 am

Dear Shelley,

Thank you so much for your comment and letting us know that we helped you have a great trip! Comments like this make all the hard work worth it, and we really appreciate you taking the time to contact us.

Happy travels!

Laurence & Jessica

Jerry Kings says

30th June 2019 at 7:41 pm

We just decided on a last minute spontaneous trip to Iceland for end of July and had to scramble to finalize our accommodations given the crowds. Loved your itinerary, but had to adjust slightly to fit our plans, so wanted to use your expertise to make sure you do not see any flaws. We land early morning 7/23 and depart early morning 7/29.

7/23: Snaefellsnes Peninsula (stay there) 7/24: Reykjavik 7/25: Golden Circle (stay in Fludir) 7/26: Vik (stay in Vik) 7/27: Hofn (stay in Hofn) 7/28: Drive back to Reykjavik, stay there before flying out in the AM

Also, any pluses or minuses of Air BnB and guesthouses? Thanks so much!

1st July 2019 at 10:20 pm

This trip definitely looks doable to me. The only negative of an airbnb is that you usually have to coordinate an arrival time which can restrict your sight seeing and make you less flexible. It’s not a big deal, just something to think about.

Have a great trip!

Yinghua says

25th June 2019 at 5:28 am

Thanks for all the great info/suggestions! My family of 4 is planning a trip in mid August, for 5 days. Love your plan. I’m inclined to book car rental and hotels myself. How do I sign up for the special activities such as snorkels or glacier hike? It seems that Iceland Travel and Guide to Iceland have either the self-drive tour package or day tour. Thanks again!

25th June 2019 at 2:31 pm

Hi Yinghua,

So whilst the two sites you mention do offer day tours, you can also book individual tours that don’t include transport as well. It’s just a question of finding them, and the search functionality doesn’t always make this super easy. However, as an example, here is a link for booking the Silfra snorkelling without transport.

So it is definitely possible to book these activities in advance without booking a full day tour 🙂

Andrew Meadows says

23rd May 2019 at 1:01 pm

Hi im looking at possibly heading to Iceland in mid to late August, and your 5 day itinerary sounds awesome, but wondering is it possible to see the Northern Lights around that time ? and is it getting cold or would be cold i did notice in one of your comments there was snow in june ! ! Thanks Andrew

23rd May 2019 at 1:11 pm

So in theory it is possible to see the northern lights in late August. The main issue is that it will not be fully dark until quite late, and there will only be a few hours of true darkness, so the window of opportunity is quite small.

In terms of weather – Iceland is never truly a warm place 😉 Even the warmest days aren’t usually much above 20C, and the wind can make it seem much cooler. So I would advise packing warm clothes and waterproofs whatever time of year you visit. And yes, we had snow in June when we last visited, and it rained a lot, and the temperature was around 12C most of the time!

Definitely don’t go to Iceland for the warm weather 😉

Have a great time though!

14th May 2019 at 2:06 am

Hey, loved your post! My friend and I are trying to figure out how much money we’ll need for gasoline. About how many miles was this trip? Super helpful post!

14th May 2019 at 9:06 am

Thanks very much!

I’d say likely 1200 – 1600 miles, depending on side trips and detours 🙂

2nd April 2019 at 1:16 am

Hi! Love the post! I’m planning to travel in October this year. Would we follow advice for summer or winter for theatre time of year?

2nd April 2019 at 10:06 am

Well, you’re on the boundary! I would err more towards winter though, as wintery conditions are definitely more common that summer conditions (we had snow in June!), so I would plan for it to be colder and with the possibility of snow. You should also be able to see the northern lights 🙂

Tiffanie O. says

28th March 2019 at 3:07 pm

Let me say i have learned so much reading all of the comments and thank you for all of the information. Below is the self drive itinerary we have put together for when we visit in August, with the help from Guide to Iceland. We did change a few things and does it look doable to you…

Day 1- arrive airport, get car, head to Blue Lagoon, then spend night in Reykjavik (walk around Reykjavik after blue lagoon). Day 2-we want to do the first snorkel 9:00 in Silfra and then head to Snaefellsnes Peninsula to spend the day exploring and then spend the night in Stykkisholmur. Day 3-make our way to Thingvellir National Park (explore, take pics), head to Geysir, then Gullfoss, Kerid Crater, Sellfoss then stay the night in Vik. (i know this sounds like alot but we plan to get up early and head out, plus we will be there in August so daylight will be on our side). Day 4-I believe we are booking an ice cave tour (Myrdalsjokull) so we would do this first then make our way to Hofn (any suggestions for along the way ?), spend night in Hofn. Day 5-explore Hofn, as we head back to Vik stop at Jokulsarlon and black diamond beach. spend night in Vik. Day 6-head back to Reykjavik from Vik but stop at Reynifjara Beach, Dyrholaey, maybe plane wreck, skogafoss, Eyjafjallajokull, Seljalandsfoss. Spend night in Reykjavik. Day 7- fly home (will probably be depressed about leaving)

Does this itinerary make sense? I had messaged you yesterday about fuel and gas cards. Our math was way off when trying to figure out how much to budget for fuel. Any recommendations will be greatly appreciated.Thank you so much!

28th March 2019 at 3:23 pm

Hi Tiffanie,

We’re happy we’ve been able to help 🙂 Just so you know we did reply to your comment about fuel cards which you can see here: https://independenttravelcats.com/visiting-iceland-in-winter-7-day-iceland-itinerary-by-car/#comment-300016

For your itinerary, I just have a couple of bits of feedback on what otherwise looks like a great itinerary 🙂

On Day 2 you have yourselves going to Silfra for the snorkelling. As Silfra is in Thingvellir National Park, I think this would make a bit more sense to do on Day 3, where you visit Thingvellir, otherwise you are doing a bit of a detour on Day 2. You should still be able to see the rest of your itinerary on Day 2 I would think if you do the 9am tour, just bear in mind you would have to leave the Snaefellsnes peninsula early.

Of course, I appreciate that you have likely thought about this, and that is why Silfra is on Day 2 🙂

Otherwise this looks good to me!

27th March 2019 at 12:15 am

Hi there, what a wonderful website you’ve got! So much valuable information and beautiful pictures. Do you have an estimate of how much this five-day tour cost for two people?

Thank you in advance! 🙂

27th March 2019 at 11:27 am

So giving prices is a bit tricky for Iceland as the currency seems to fluctuate a lot! However, Iceland is definitely a relatively pricey destination, and it will also depend on a few factors (what sort of accommodation you want, what time of year you visit).

My suggestion is to check out our guide to how much it costs to travel in Iceland: https://independenttravelcats.com/iceland-budget-tips-how-to-save-money-in-iceland/#How-Much-Do-Things-Cost-in-Iceland

Which has some indicative costs for everything from car hire to groceries to accommodation, and from that you should be able to easily come up with a budget 🙂

Have a great trip, and let me know if I can help any more!

27th March 2019 at 4:49 pm

Thanks so much, Laurence! Very helpful information, it’ll really help me plan my trip. Thanks again! 🙂

27th January 2019 at 1:29 am

Hello, I am planning to visit Iceland around april 12 for 5-6 days. I intend to follow your itinerary, with maybe the addition of Snaefellsnes peninsula. Looking at the map, it seems it is more convenient to add this before the rest of the itinerary, am I right? Also, any suggestions for travelling in April? Any chance to see northern lights?

27th January 2019 at 9:48 am

Yes, adding the Snaefellsnes peninsula at the start would make the most sense. For April there’s nothing specific – just be aware that Iceland can be cold and windy / wet at any time of year, so just make sure you bring enough warm clothes. There is still the chance to see the northern lights in April, all you need is clear skies and a display to happen! Good luck 🙂

26th January 2019 at 6:17 pm

Hello, what hikes would one be able to do in these areas?

Thank you!!

26th January 2019 at 7:21 pm

It really depends on the length of hike you are interested in doing and the time of year you visit. Iceland is home to shorter hikes of an hour to half a day, as well as longer multi-day hikes. For multi-day hikes though I’d advise doing something different as this itinerary isn’t really about hiking.

For shorter hikes, you have quite a few options, although of course you’ll want to adjust the itinerary as it doesn’t currently account for many hikes.

Areas you might want to consider hiking are the short hike to Kvernufoss, the hike up to (and beyond) Reykjadalur hot springs and the hikes in Skaftafell up to and beyond Svartifoss.

There are loads more hikes, including the hike out to Glymur, and the Mt Esja hike, both of which are accessible from Reyjkavik.

I hope this helps a bit 🙂

Ethan Plous says

21st January 2019 at 11:32 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica! My name is Ethan, and my friends and I planning a trip to Iceland during the summer of 2019 (June 14-17). Unfortunately amongst the five of us, there is no one who is old enough to rent a car (we are all 18 years old). I noticed that there is a public bus system and I was wondering if that is an effective way to get around. I had read the portion of your post that mentioned bus passports, but my friends and I were planning to spend one night in a different part of Iceland for the duration of our stay and an hourly bus pass does not seem particularly efficient. Moreover, I am extremely grateful for the patience you guys had to write such an informative and extensive guide, and I am extremely open to suggestions as where to visit in our time in Iceland!

Thanks a Ton,

22nd January 2019 at 12:20 pm

So the main issue with the public bus system is that it doesn’t tend to stop at the major tourist sights, and even if it does, many of the sights don’t take very long to see, and then you’d have to wait for another bus to come along.

The bus passports: https://guidetoiceland.is/book-holiday-trips/return-bus-ticket-to-the-highlands-golden-hikers-pass?a=133265 https://guidetoiceland.is/book-holiday-trips/iceland-by-bus-south-coast-passport?a=133265

One of them is just for hiking and the other is just from July, so I don’t think these will help.

So I have two main options for you. You can maybe rent an apartment in Reyjkavik, and then do some day tours from the city, as I suggest here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/day-trips-from-reykjavik-iceland/

Or you could do a multi-day guided tour, which might be the easiest option. I suggest some here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/best-guided-group-tours-of-iceland/

But if you take a look at the following sites you’ll get some ideas:

Iceland Travel Get Your Guide Guide to Iceland

I hope this helps a bit!

Have an awesome trip, and do let us know how it goes or if you have any more questions for us 😀

8th January 2019 at 2:24 pm

Hello, many thanks for this excellent guide! I’m planning to go to Iceland in March, from Saturday (arriving in the evening) to Friday (leaving in the morning) and I was thinking to follow pretty much this itinerary. Is it feasible in your opinion to start on Sunday morning from Reykyavik and visit the Snaefellsnes peninsula (Stykkisholmur, Bjarnarhofn, Kirkjufell, shall I add/remove something?) and sleep at Borgarnes? The following day I would continue with your Day 2 (Thingvellir and so on) .

Thanks, Marco

8th January 2019 at 5:16 pm

Hi Marco – our pleasure!

So yes, if you don’t mind skipping Reykjavik then that would definitely be achievable 🙂 I also think you should be able to see everything you mention without too much trouble. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to catch your flight on the Friday morning!

8th January 2019 at 8:10 pm

Yes because my idea was to do the peninsula on day 1, keep your day 2, 3 and 4 and the fifth day go back towards Reykjavik (with long stop at the blue lagoon :)) and on day 6 take the flight back. I’ve also came up with a different solution: Day 1: From Reykjavik to Vik (Seljalandsfoss,Skogafoss ecc.. basically your day 3 but driving from Reykjavik) Day 2: same as your day 4 Day 3: from Vik to Borgarnes (visiting Geysir, Gelfoss, Thingvellir) Day 4: visiting Snaefellnes penisula and sleep a Borgarnes Day 5: blue lagoon and sleep at Reykjavik

Any suggestions on which one is better? 🙂

Many thanks, Marco

8th January 2019 at 9:49 pm

This would work. Depending on the car you have you can also take road 48 to leave the Golden Circle route, and go past þórufoss, which is a really nice waterfall. It’s a gravel road which we drove in March a couple of years ago with no problems, but it’s always worth checking road conditions of course 🙂 Of course, you could do this the other way as well, from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

To be honest either way will be pretty similar, it just depends which way you want to go!

5th January 2019 at 9:44 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica,

My wife and I are planning to follow your itinerary in late January 2019. It is our first time in Iceland and really would like to see the Northern lights if we get lucky. Will it be visible in any of the locations in this road trip? if not, where is the best place to see it without deviating too far from this 5 days plan? Thank you in advance.

5th January 2019 at 10:31 pm

Yep, you can see the northern lights pretty much throughout Iceland, with the best viewing possible when you are away from artificial lights. Generally, that just means going a short distance from wherever you are staying – most towns are not too big in Iceland. Even in Reykjavik you can just travel a short distance to get good viewing! So you shouldn’t need to divert from the plan at all – you would just need to hope for clear skies and good conditions!

Have a wonderful trip 🙂

12th September 2018 at 12:58 am

In Iceland now and following this itinerary pretty closely, starting day 4 tomorrow: South Coast & Vík. Can you tell me roughly how long this day took you and if you started the day early? It seems like a jam-packed day! Thanks!

12th September 2018 at 10:24 am

Hey! So you are likely on the road now, but this is certainly a full day. We tend to start most of our days relatively early, around 8am. That said, the goal of the itinerary was to try and make every day a similar length. We’d love to hear your feedback though as to how you found it!

13th September 2018 at 10:49 pm

I booked a room last minute in Thykkvibaer, quite west of Vik/Klaustur, so I didn’t do the full itinerary for day 4 as it would’ve been too long of a drive back to the hotel afterward, so I can’t comment on the length of your itinerary for that day. I will say that there are signs in front of both the steep drive to Dyrhólaey and the entrance to Fjaðrárgljúfur that specify 4×4 vehicles only, and I had rented a small 2WD. Many blogs said a 2WD would fine on gravel roads, but it was raining and there were many potholes, and I tried it but it felt like a bad idea, so I turned back. I will definitely rent a 4×4 next visit, no doubt. The good news is there is a steep rocky pedestrian footpath from the parking lot below up to the Dyrhólaey viewpoint so hiking is an option if you can’t or don’t want to make the steep drive due to a small car or just nerves!

14th September 2018 at 11:24 am

Thanks very much for the update. You are correct, the drive up to Dyrhólaey is quite steep, and if the signs say 4WD only then it is a good idea. I’m not sure if those signs are relatively new, but I will update the post to reflect this information. Thanks very much!

8th January 2019 at 8:19 pm

Hi RB, Haven’t understood: did you manage to do day 4 starting and coming back to Vik?

Andrew Scheier says

30th August 2018 at 3:54 pm

We followed this itinerary pretty closely (added Gjain on day 2 and did the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on day 6.) Had a great time. Thanks!

30th August 2018 at 3:57 pm

Hey Andrew – that’s great! We always love to hear feedback about how things went, and we’re pleased you had a good time 😀

Victor says

18th August 2018 at 3:58 am

Thank you for all the great tips! Do you recommend a 4×4 for this trip or a regular car will be okay?

18th August 2018 at 8:40 am

Hey Victor, our pleasure 🙂

A regular car should be fine, all the roads in this itinerary are paved. If you travel in Winter you might prefer a 4×4 for some added safety, but even standard cars should come with winter or studded tires, so it should be ok. Either way, just drive safely and to the road conditions and you should be fine!

15th August 2018 at 3:19 pm

Thank you very much for providing inspiration for my future trip to Iceland.

15th August 2018 at 8:22 pm

Our pleasure – thanks for commenting!

12th July 2018 at 5:13 am

This guide is wonderful! Thanks for all the great information

12th July 2018 at 11:53 am

Our pleasure – thanks Kate!

Amanda says

27th January 2018 at 2:01 pm

I’ll be back in Iceland later this year with my dad on our way over to Greenland – this is a great first-time guide for a shorter trip! I’ll have to send it to Dad so he can start getting some ideas.

28th January 2018 at 9:46 am

We’ll be there in June 😀 Maybe we’ll run into each other!

Kristin says

23rd January 2018 at 4:45 pm

I love how moody and dramatic all these shots are, but the beauty image up top with the red jacket tops it all in my book! It’s now been 11 years since I was in Iceland, and MAN do I want to get back. My husband still hasn’t ever gone!

23rd January 2018 at 4:48 pm

Yeah, we did actually get a lot of nice days in Iceland too, but these ended up being the shots I chose for this post for some reason! You guys definitely need to get back 😀

sally-anne grainger says

28th July 2019 at 7:01 pm

I am looking at going for New year and my 40th (Jan). What is it like please? We are going for 5 days and I don’t want to be going here there and everywhere. I am after seeing the lights, blue lagoon, waterfalls, and other nice naturey stuff nearby. Done whale watching so many times I feel this is not for me. Suggestions would be appreciated. Also looking at staying at one place only where the views are good for the lights. We are looking at hiring a car also rather than pay extra for tours. Many thanks, Sally

29th July 2019 at 7:45 pm

Hi Sally Anne!

So the main thing to consider at that time of year is that it will be dark a lot of the time (the days can be as short as just a few hours of daylight). This means that you won’t be able to fit as much in in terms of sight seeing as it will be dark. However, you will have lots more opportunities for the northern lights, so that is a benefit. I think a good option would be to base yourself in Reyjkavik and to explore from there. I’d say the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon and parts of the south coast would be good options for your time, especially with a car rental. We also have a guide to Iceland in winter which might give you some more inspiration, as well as some ideas of day trips from Reykjavik. You can see those here:

https://independenttravelcats.com/visiting-iceland-in-winter-7-day-iceland-itinerary-by-car/ https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/day-trips-from-reykjavik-iceland/

Have a great time!

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The Absolute Best Iceland Itinerary: 7 days

Iceland is one of those countries that seems to be popping up on everyone’s Instagram lately. The stunning country is filled with so many jaw-dropping views. It has become wildly famous for good reason. The country is full of waterfalls, black sand beaches, white peaked mountains, cute churches, blue glaciers, hot springs galore, and so much more. It is honestly a nature lover’s dream paradise. And, the best part is that it is super easy to plan a trip. With the acceptance of credit cards everywhere and most attractions being just a car drive away, its no wonder people flock to Iceland every year. After spending my Thanksgiving in this magnificent place, I have decided to make it easy for everyone and listed out the perfect 7 days Iceland itinerary which also includes tours if you are not in the mood to rent a car. So keep reading on for the best Iceland Itinerary 7 days edition!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

Download my free Outdoor Photography Guide

Iceland winter itinerary vs iceland summer itinerary.

Choosing when to visit Iceland can be difficult, especially if you are spending 7 days in Iceland. On one hand, the summer months bring easy weather; but on the other hand, winter has fewer crowds. Either way, you will not be disappointed no matter what time of the year you go. I went in the winter to save money and it was still epic. My winter trip just made me want to come back in the summer to experience a different landscape.

• In the Winter:  Weather can be unpredictable, it is cheaper, less sunlight, snowy landscape, less crowded, the best sunrise and sunset pictures.
• In the Summer: Weather is the best, super crowded, green landscape, more sunlight, more costly.

How To Travel Around Iceland

There are three options on getting around Iceland in 7 days:

• Rental Car: We chose this option. I am from Texas where we drive everywhere, so I don’t like to be limited on where I go. Plus, I love getting away from the crowds so it was an easy choice to rent a car. Since we went in the winter, we stayed in hotels instead of campsites. I do not advice camping in the winter as it can be dangerous. The Iceland roads were pretty easy to travel in as the road conditions were good. I will warn you that driving in Iceland in winter can be dangerous due to random snow storms, so be wary.
• Tour Guides: There are soooo many tours in Iceland that you no longer need a car to explore. Throughout the article, I have listed the most popular tours for you. Tours are a great option if you don’t feel like planning much 🙂
• Rent a Campervan: This is a great way to save some money! You don’t need camping gear or a hotel, just your campervan. >Rent Your Campervan Here

Read More: 11+ Tips on Renting a Campervan in Iceland

Iceland Road Map

Below is the Iceland 7 day Itinerary map. You can download the map and turn on and off all the layers as needed:

Iceland Tips

• Even though Iceland is part of the EU, the country uses the Icelandic Króna instead of the EUR. Many people exchange their money, but I feel it is unnecessary. Most places accepts credit cards, and if you have a credit card that has no international/foreign exchange fees, you can skip the hassle of getting the Krona.
• If you want to avoid the crowds, the best approach is to travel further away from Reykjavik. It is easiest by renting a car or an RV. In my opinion, the best way to see Iceland is to rent a car.
• Spending one week in Iceland can be expensive. The best way to save money is to not eat at restaurants. I suggest going to grocery stores and buying food in Reykjavik or Vik. Another way to save money is to purchase sandwiches from gas stations. Most days, my husband and I ate sandwiches from the gas station and they were quite tasty. I would get different types every time so I wouldn’t get tired of them.
• Don’t go driving off-road because it is illegal.
• Only hike on established trails.
• Book all your tours in advance. Iceland is a popular travel destination so they might get sold out.
• Bring the correct type of clothing. Summer months do not mean warm months. Come prepared.

Iceland Itinerary 7 days

Day 1: fly into keflavik, blue lagoon and hang out at reykjavik.

Blue Lagoon

There are so many articles on why you should or shouldn’t visit the famous Blue Lagoon. The articles over-analyze the super touristy spot. I am one of those individuals who needs to experience it on my own to form my personal opinion. So of course, I booked my ticket right away.

My conclusion is that if you are on a fence, add it to your Iceland travel itinerary. Experience it at least once in your life. If you hate it, then never go back again. But at least you tried it out.

It is a bit crowded, but the smokey, baby blue colors and the relaxation is worth it. I recommend booking a ticket early in the day (8:00 am or 9:00am) just so there are fewer people. Based on the setup, I can imagine the place can become a madhouse at peak hours.

When you arrive,  you are given a bracelet, which will allow you to lock your belongings in a locker. Right after you put your personal items in the locker, you are required to take a shower prior to jumping into the lagoon. I recommend women to put their hair in a bun and then slather conditioner all over your hair. Don’t worry, conditioner is provided in the showers. The blue lagoon waters do dry out your hair so avoid getting your hair wet.

After the shower, you walk outside and enter the lagoon. Once the toes hit the water, all of your problems and stress magically melt away. I recommend exploring all the areas of Blue Lagoon. The lagoon has three “stands” which offer different things such as drinks, massages, and mud mask products. The drink stand will give you your first drink free, and the silica mask is free as well. Your bracelet will be assigned to you which allow you to “purchase” drinks or face masks.  At the end of the experience, you will be able to check out and pay your tab.

• Blue Lagoon Admission Ticket – Buy this ticket as soon as you buy your airplane ticket to Iceland since the Blue Lagoon admissions tickets tend to sell out. Schedule it the day you arrive in Iceland or the day you leave Iceland  >Buy The Admission Ticket Here
• From Reykjavik Airport Transport – If you are not renting a car, getting transport to and from is a great option. >Buy Your Transport Here

First Day in Reykjavik

After spending some time at the Blue Lagoon, it is time to head to the capital city of Iceland – Reykjavik. Reykjavik is located on the south western part of Iceland, making it quite nice and easy to explore the rest of the country from here.

Blue Lagoon/Keflavik to Reykjavik is about 45 minutes to 1 hour drive away. Upon arriving at Reykjavik, head to your hotel to check-in. We stayed at Ion City Hotel , which is such a chic, beautiful hotel. After checking in, it is time for some quick exploration. It is recommended that you explore Reykjavik by walking – as some of the lanes don’t allow for vehicle entry.

First stop is the Laugavegur Street. This is one of the prettiest streets in Reykjavik and also their main street. You will find beautiful murals on the walls, street art, great restaurants, bars and souvenir stores at Laugavegur Street. Our favorite restaurant here was the Scandinavia and Joe and Juice, which became a morning ritual.

The city offers numerous wonderful tours which are conducted in the afternoons. These walking tours are an amazing way to learn about Iceland’s history – from Vikings to the establishment of the Alpingi (parliament) and the modern day economic recession and revival of Icelandic economy with the tourism and nationalized banks. The tours typically last 2-3 hours.

If you like to explore on your own, then head to the Hallgrímskirkja Church next. Hallgrímskirkja Church is an iconic landmark of Iceland. You can see this tallest church from anywhere in the city of Reykjavik. This is a Lutheran church and it is open to public everyday. Entry to the church is free, but to access the towers, there is an additional charge of $10 USD per adult. We highly recommend that you take the church tower access, you will be rewarded with amazing city views of Reykjavik, with its red, blue and multi-colored houses. You can easily spend 1-2 hours here.

By now, the sun is likely setting. This is the best time to stroll around the city, eat, and grab a drink or two. Reykjavik comes alive in the evening, so definitely check it out.

It is true that Reykjavik is expensive when it comes to food. For meals everyday, it is a good idea to get some Icelandic delicacies from one of their grocery stores (Bonus, Kronas, 10-11 – grocery stores located in downtown Reykjavik). There is a budget eating place in downtown Reykjavik (all you can eat style) – called Reykjavik Street Food. You have to try their Icelandic lamb soup. Not only is it delicious, but it is noticeably cheaper when compared to other restaurants.

Where to Stay In Reykjavik

• Ion City Hotel  is the hotel we stayed at in Reykjavik. It is chic, fancy and in an entertaining area. I love how close everything is and being able to walk around with all the Christmas decorations. Sigh… So magical!  >Check Pricing and Availability
• 101 Hotel  is located only a few minutes walk from the Icelandic Phallological Museum and usually has incredible rates. I stayed here in the summer and I am in love with the black and white modern look of the rooms!  >Check Pricing and Availability 
• The Hotel Lotus  is an affordable accommodation with Kringlan Shopping Center only 0.6 miles away! There is also an in-house restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner.  >Check Pricing and Availability  

Looking for more places to stay in Reykjavik? Read About The Best Places To Stay In Iceland

Day 2: Explore Reykjavik

Next morning, explore more of the Reykjavik city. Reykjavik is located by the Faxa Bay, so you can expect amazing river-front views. Take a stroll along the harbour front and visit some of the other popular tourist spots in the capital city. The Sun Voyager is a sculpture located by the harbor front. It is accessible 24/7. Close to the Sun Voyager is the stunning Harpa Concert Hall. Built in the 2000s, the “Harpa” is home of Icelandic festivals and Orchestra and is characterized by the shiny glass architecture.

There are quite a few interesting museums in the Reykjavik city, that are definitely worth a visit. Iceland Maritime Museum, Icelandic Phallological Museum, Icelandic Art Museum, the National Gallery of Iceland – to name a few.

There is also the new amazing Sky Lagoon that everyone is talking about. This lagoon is located in Reykjavik and is less crowded than the blue lagoon. The views are absolutely gorgeous too. I even did the seven-step ritual and had an amazing experience. >You can book a ticket here

I also recommend doing some shopping around Reykjavik. Iceland is known for its wool, so I bought some sweaters, jackets, blankets, and hats. Icewear Iceland is the best place to shop at for Icelandic wool.

Looking for more things to do in Reykjavik? Read the free and cheap things to do in Reykjavik here .

Reykjavik area written by Mayuri at To Some Place New

Day 3: Golden Circle

Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir National Park)

One of the most famous national parks and a world heritage Unesco site in Iceland is Thingvellir National Park. Thingvellir is a must for your 1 week in Iceland trip. The park is filled with waterfalls, old churches, ruins, and mid-Atlantic rifts which means you will be walking on two continents/ tectonic plates: The North American Plates and the Eurasian Plates. Iceland is the only place in the world where you can walk on two different tectonic plates.

When we entered the park, we slowly walked around and took in all the beauty and took pictures of the waterfalls and the unique landscape. Many people also scuba dive or snorkel in the Silfra. You can book your Silfra snorkel tour here.  If you do book a snorkel or dive tour please note that it will probably take half a day so you might not have time to explore the other areas listed on this day.

The Geysir is an easy attraction to add to your Iceland road trip itinerary. The area has restaurants, tourists shops, and it even has a Geysir! This was our first time seeing a Geysir, so I was super impressed. Parking is free, and it was easy to find a spot even with the crowds. The Geysir sprays water every few minutes (up to 20-40 meters high) so make sure to take videos and pictures of this phenomenon. Just don’t get too close as the water is sweltering:-)

Note: This is a great area to stop and have lunch at.

Gullfoss Waterfall

When we arrived at this waterfall, we were in absolute shock! Gullfoss was the largest waterfall I have ever seen, and there was a 360° rainbow! The only downside was that it was pretty crowded and the floor was slippery, so be careful. I almost fell on my face a couple of times, not going to lie 🙂

Gullfoss translates to “Golden Falls” which was exactly how I felt described this place. I mean look at that picture above, if that doesn’t describe golden falls, I don’t know what will. The waterfall should be thought of as two separate features with one cascade measuring at 11 meters and the taller one measuring at 21 meters.

Kerid Crater

When planning a trip to Iceland, make sure to add this volcanic crater to your list. I loved how the green water looked with the dark red color of the crater. It is a perfect detour from the Gullfoss, Thingvellir, and the Geysir since it isn’t as crowded as the other three sites. You do have to pay for parking which we did with our credit card (about 400 ISK).

You can either hike around the crater or hike down to the water. We decided to get closer to the crater and take more pictures as shown below.

Take Pictures With Icelandic Horses

This honestly can be done on any of the days when seeing Iceland by car, but I decided to add this here since we took pictures with the horses while exploring the Golden Circle. You will have so many opportunities to hang out with the horses because they are everywhere!

Just make sure not to feed the horses and not to touch them. Feeding them or petting them does more harm than good.

Golden Circle Tours

• Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full Day Tour with Kerid Crater –  One of the most popular tours in Iceland, takes you to see Gullfoss Waterfall, the geyser of Strokkur, the volcanic crater at Kerið, and Þingvellir National Park. This tour lasts about 8 hours, and they pick you up at Reykjavik.    >Buy Tour Now

Where To Stay Near The Golden Circle

I recommend staying in Reykjavik on this day. But, if you are driving in Iceland on your own then you can probably stay at a hotel much closer:

• Ion Luxury Adventure Hotel – We stayed at the Ion hotel while we toured the Golden Circle. Super Chic and away from the hustle and bustle. The hotel has a delicious restaurant and a pretty rad looking pool. Perfect for Instagram pictures. >Book Your Stay Here

Day 4: South Iceland

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Day four consists of exploring South Iceland. The first stop is one of the most famous waterfalls called Seljalandsfoss located on route 1 Iceland. The waterfall is about 60 meters tall and is part of the Seljalands River.

When traveling around Iceland, you can usually spot the beautiful waterfall a long ways away before you get to it. It truly is magnificent. You do have to pay for parking, and it is 700ISK per car. There is a Kiosk machine that takes credit cards.

The best part about this waterfall is you can actually walk behind the waterfall. If you want to go behind the waterfall, I highly recommend a raincoat because you will get soaked! In the wintertime going behind the waterfall can be closed due to the path being too slippery.

Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

Located right next to the famous Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi Waterfall is a must stop. The waterfall is located walking distance away from Seljalandsfoss, and it is less crowded. The waterfall is 40 meters high and is blocked from view behind a massive cliff. Bring good rainboots and raincoat as you will get soaked.

Skógafoss Waterfall

One of the most well-known waterfalls in Iceland, Skógafoss should be on everyone’s South Iceland itinerary. The waterfall stands at 60 meters, is 25 meters wide, and is located right off the Iceland highway 1. There is even an option of walking up the steps to view the beautiful waterfall from above (525 steps worth).

Hidden Waterfall

One of my favorite parts of my Iceland road trip itinerary was discovering a hidden waterfall called Kvernufoss. The waterfall is located near the Skogar Museum, and if you walk east, you will find a fence that you will need to hop over. Eventually, the path will lead you to a wonderful waterfall. Make sure to take care of Kvernufoss, and to keep it hidden away from the hordes of tourists.

Dyrhólaey Lighthouse Viewpoint

When we were visiting Iceland, we loved seeing the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse. It was our first time seeing a black sand beach so getting the views from the top were surreal. The area is unfortunately not open all year long for cars due to bird nesting season.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

One of the most famous black sand beaches is located on the south coast near the small city of Vik. This place is usually crowded with tourists, but I still feel it is necessary to stop. The beach is one of a kind and includes crazily shaped basalt rocks, basalt cliffs, and of course black sand. You can usually walk away from the crowds to take some pictures on your own.

The two Basalt Cliffs are called Reynisdrangar and legend has it that the two cliffs are trolls that turned into stone when they stayed too long in the daylight.

South Island Tours

South Island is one of the most popular spots in Iceland. Getting a tour in this area is not difficult at all. Here is the most popular South Island Tour from Reykjavik:

South of Iceland Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik –  The duration is about 10 hours, and you get to visit Seljalandsfoss, Vik, Sólheimajökull glacier, Skógafoss waterfall, and see the black sand beaches of the southern coast.  >Book Your Tour Here

Vik is such a cute town to explore. It is also a great place to grab food, or go grocery shopping. I liked exploring the Vík i Myrdal Church. If you go around the right time (June/July) the area will be filled with wildflowers. It is pretty epic.

Where To Stay In Vik

If you are not doing a south island tour and you are driving around Iceland on your own, I recommend staying at Vik for the night. Driving all the way back to Reykjavik will make you lose precious Iceland exploring time.

• Vik Apartments  are pretty much a home away from home. The hotel comes with a full kitchen, living room, an awesome balcony with stunning views of the black beach. I recommend this place for families or friends traveling together as there are multiple bedrooms.  >Check Pricing and Availability
• Black Beach Suites  was my FAVORITE accommodation in Iceland. I loved that it had a full kitchen and dining table. Hubby even cooked me breakfast in the morning. You can walk to the famous black sand beach from the patio. I wish we had stayed more than one night.  >Check Pricing and Availability
• The Barn  is one of the fanciest hostels I have ever seen. This place is exceptionally chic and clean. I had to go inside to check into our Black Beach Suites, and I was surprised to find out it was a hostel! If you are on a budget, I HIGHLY recommend this place.  >Check Pricing and Availability

Day 5: South East Iceland

Tour around Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

The glacial lagoon was probably my favorite part of my Iceland one-week itinerary. The area is absolutely epic and has so much to offer! You can take a boat tour, visit ice caves, go glacier hiking, or take amazing Instagram pictures at the shores. Regardless of what you do, it will be amazing.

Since we visited Iceland in the Winter, we decided to do the one thing that can not be done all year round: Ice Cave exploring . You must hire a guide for this, and it can only be done in the winter time. I enjoyed it, but one thing that bugged me was how rushed it felt. But, it is understandable since so many people trying to see the Ice Caves as well.

The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a popular destination for tours leading to many other adventure options besides the Ice Caves; like boat tours, and glacier hiking. Most tours start early in the morning near the lagoon.

Our ice cave tour ended in the early afternoon. Afterward, we ate at one of the two food trucks located on site. The food was delicious!

Diamond Beach

Make sure to add this to your Iceland trip itinerary because this beach is spectacular. The ice comes in all shapes and sizes, and they are always changing. This is a great spot to take drone photos and to practice your photography skills (especially during sunset). Winter time is the best time to visit this beach as the diamonds are huge compared to the summer. See the pictures above and below.

Southeast Island Tours

Due to different seasons, I recommend two tours near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. One tour is for the summer, and the other is for the winter:

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour –  This tour departs from Reykjavik and also includes Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Vik. This is a 14-hour tour. This is an excellent option for the summer.   >Book Your Tour Here
• Crystal Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon –   The tour meets in the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon so you will have to find transportation to the lagoon yourselves. This is the tour we took, and we enjoyed it.  >Book Your Tour Here

Where To Stay In Höfn

Staying at Höfn is an excellent idea after exploring around Jökulsárlón all day. The city has several accommodations and isn’t as crowded as many of the other towns near Reykjavik. If you have extra time and want to soak in a hot tub, check out the Hoffell hot tubs  near Höfn.

• Seljavellir Guesthouse  is a great hotel with big patio window doors with wonderful views of the outdoors. There is even a bar and a terrace to relax.  >Check Pricing and Availability
• Milk Factory  is a cute bed and breakfast that used to be an actual Milk Factory! Recently renovated the B&B has some great views of the surrounding mountains.  >Check Pricing and Availability
• Höfn Hostel  If you are looking for cheap accommodation the Hofn Hostel is for you. This hostel is an environmentally friendly place with a guest kitchen and laundry services.   >Check Pricing and Availability

Day 6: Explore Höfn and Stokksness and Drive Back To Reykjavik

If you are touring Iceland by car, you need to stop by Stokksnes. The peninsula holds the stunning and tall mountains called Vestrahorn. You do have to pay for a small entrance fee but doing so is entirely worth it. The black sand beach next to tall spiring mountains is a perfect spot for photographers.

We also got some killer sunset and sunrise shots in this area (as seen below). I just loved how there were fewer crowds near Höfn. After being surrounded by people every step of the way, it was nice to get some pictures without people around.

Svartifoss should be in your Iceland self drive itinerary. The waterfall is about 20 meters tall and has black columnar basalt walls. The waterfall is located in Skaftafell which is part of Vatnajökull National Park.

Get to the Skaftafell visitor center and ask for a hiking map to get to Svartifoss. The hike is about 1.5Km from the visitors center and can take 1.5-3 hours to complete (depending on how long you like to take pictures).

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

If you are driving around Iceland, make sure to stop at the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. The canyon is believed to be formed at the end of the last Ice Age, about nine thousand years ago. You can hike around the edge of the canyon to view from above. There are many stopping points throughout the canyon to take pictures. At the end of the hike, there is a stunning tall flowing waterfall.

More than likely you will be coming back to Reykjavik either in the late afternoon or evening. On our last night, we went to the Staff Kitchen and Bar . The tapas plate we ordered to share was pretty good.

Day 7: Head to The Airport

After a road trip around Iceland, it is time to get back home. If you didn’t rent a car, then book a bus transfer from Reykjavik and Keflavik here.

Additional Readings

Welp this is how we spent a week in Iceland. Make sure to check out some of my other blog posts and let me know if you have any questions in the comments below:

• Things to Do In Iceland In The Winter
• Ultimate Guide to What To Wear In Iceland

Also, follow me on Instagram, where I discuss all things hiking, camping, and backpacking. You can get ready for your next outdoor adventure!   Follow Me Here .

Claim your FREE Hiking Checklist

Ready to start hiking? Grab my free hiking checklist and never forget anything at home!

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33 comments.

Your maps are fantastic! It is so helpful having an idea of where everything is, especially when all the names look similar!

Thank you 🙂

Your Iceland itinerary looks amazing! The crater and waterfall look out of this world, and I so want to see the super cute Icelandic horses. I’ll pin this for my trip!

I can’t believe how many stunning photos you’ve fit into one post! I’d love to do a campervan trip around Iceland someday, and this is the first guide I’ve read that’s seriously made me consider going in the winter– those ice caves! Diamond Beach!

I know Diamond Beach is such a dream!

This looks like an amazing itinerary and it’s very well written! I’m trying to plan a trip to Iceland and this has given me so much inspiration on where to start!

Awww I am so glad you liked it!

Wow! Phenomenal post, map, and itinerary! I spent 21 days in Iceland in 2011 and am planning a week-long trip for my family to go next summer. This is very helpful and has me fired up! Your images are spectacular and the writing is top-notch as well. I have one question. The map seems to be missing day two; is it me or am did I do something on my end to remove the second day? Thanks for sharing this fantastic work and I wish you many more journeys! Todd

Hey Todd! Wow, thank you for your kind words I can not appreciate it enough! Yes, you were so right! My map was missing the 2nd day so I have updated it! I really appreciate you telling me and I really hope you have a great time with your family 🙂 Cheers!

I really enjoyed reading your blog. I’m planning a 7 day self guided road trip to Iceland next summer and this helped so much with getting some ideas. I loved how you incorporated map and pictures as well as suggestions of where to stay.

I am so glad you liked it! I love when blogs include maps and places to stay. It makes it so much easier for us!

I love your outfits and hats so much. What are the brands of the boots and jackets you have in the pictures you have posted? You are so cute in them!!

Hey Sherry here is my packing list 🙂

Hello! I just wanted to say thanks so much for this post. We recently took a road trip through Iceland, and I followed this post for inspiration and a route. I agree, we really liked Black Beach Suites and Seljavellir Guesthouse. You saved me a lot of time! Thanks again!

Thank you so much! That makes me so happy to hear 😀

Hi, Looking to go to Iceland in January. Where would I go the see the Northern lights? Thanks, Al

The best time to see them is in the winter. You can usually see them in most places in Iceland. But it is better if you get out of Reykjavik. Just keep on looking online to see updates on when it is out. You can also get the hotel to wake you if there is any activity.

I have been searching near and far for some tips on a Feb. Iceland trip and I cannot thank you enough for this post! Seriously the most perfect fit for our trip – THANK YOU!

Thank you Karin! So happy you liked it 🙂

Your pictures are phenomenal! What camera are you using? Your itinerary has been so helpful and have saved me so much time!

Thank you! I used the Sony A6000!

What would you recommend if you had one extra day? We are planning on following your itinerary but have one extra full day!

I recommend Snaefellsjokull National Park!

This is incredible! My boyfriend and I are planning to go to Iceland next June. I told him I would be happy doing everything on your blog. This is very informative and makes me so excited to go!! Thank you for such great info!

Yay I am so happy you like it 🙂

This looks like an amazing trip! I’m trying to plan for next year (hoping travel is okay from a COVID standpoint by then). Did you see the Northern Lights? If so, where did you see them? Thanks!

I saw them but they were not as pretty as I have seen in pictures. It looked like a cloud. I think I was just not lucky.

I just used your itinerary as the basis for my own trip (June 2022) and I have to say it was balanced, well-paced, and super fun. I even cross-referenced your stops with other sites like Lonely Planet and Reddit and this definitely has the highlights you want to see. We ended up making some changes to accommodations and tacked on some extra days in Reykjavik at the end, but if you are thinking of visiting Iceland (and not doing the Ring Road), I really recommend doing a version similar to this. If you are going in summer, instead of the Ice Cave, I highly recommend going kayaking in the Glacier Lagoon instead. Thanks for posting this!

Thank you so much for this comment! As a blogger, I rarely get feedback after people’s trips, so good to know you enjoyed it. I will be going back next month so hopefully, I can write a 14-day itinerary:-D.

Hi Michelle, Thank you for your itinerary. My husband and I just got back from Iceland, and we used it as our planning tool. It was awesome 🙂 Allison

Yay so glad you liked it!

Hi! I wanted to let you know I used your itinerary information extensively this past week when I took my 18-year old son to Iceland for his birthday/high school graduation trip, and it was amazing!! We did 7 days + 2 days for air travel, and we added a day on Westman Islands to your suggestions. It was amazing! The weather was phenomenal and we saw so much beauty! Thanks for putting this out there into the universe for other people to benefit from. ❤️

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Top Places to Visit in Iceland

Keflavik International Airport Guide

Driving in Iceland

Tipping in Iceland

Staying Safe in Iceland

Helpful Words and Phrases

Best Tours in Iceland

Top Northern Lights Tours

Seven-Day Iceland Itinerary

48 Hours in Reykjavik

Day Trips From Reykjavik

Top Things to Do in Iceland

Best Beaches in Iceland

Hiking in Iceland

How to See the Northern Lights

Best Icelandic Hot Springs

Skiing in Iceland

Top Things to Do in Reykjavik

Free Things to Do in Reykjavik

Reykjavik's Best Museums

Shopping in Reykjavik

Guide to the Blue Lagoon

Food to Try in Iceland

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Craft Beer in Iceland

Your Trip to Iceland: The Complete Guide

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images 

Believe the hype: Iceland is a magical place full of waterfalls, uninhabited terrain, hot springs, kind locals, and elvish folklore around every corner. There's something for everyone in Iceland, and thanks to the ease of the Icelandair stopover, it's never been easier to visit.

Possibly the best part of traveling to Iceland is that you can tailor your trip to any amount of time you're available. It isn't one of those places where you must dedicate a full two weeks to exploring (though, that is recommended). If you've only got a long weekend, stick to Reykjavik and plan a one day trip. Looking to get lost for a month? Plan a hiking journey through the Central Highlands , or make your way around Iceland's Ring Road .

Planning Your Trip

There are a few things you're going to want to know before you actually get there. In fact, the first thing to think about even before you buy your plane ticket is the weather. We'll dig into that more below, but everything you've heard about Icelandic winters is true: It's cold, it's snowy, and it's entirely unpredictable. Make sure you're fully prepared to relax and enjoy your trip using the information below.

Best Time to Visit : This will depend on your personal preferences. It will never get hot in Iceland; temperatures during the summer max an average of 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and snow is not likely, making summer a good weather season to visit. Plus, the summer midnight sun allows you to extend your daily itineraries. However, the winter offers the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights if you've got that on your bucket list. And you'll find more affordable lodging and airfare in the winter, especially around February and March.

Language: Icelandic and English. Every student in Iceland learns English at a young age  , so you won't run into any language barrier, given that you speak English. That being said, local shop owners will greet you in Icelandic first, most of the time. Icelandic is a beautiful language, so make sure to listen up when you're around locals so you can hear it for yourself. And don't be afraid to ask how to pronounce something in Icelandic; people are very friendly and enthusiastic to share the knowledge.

Currency: Icelandic króna. Most places, especially in larger cities, accept credit card payment.

Getting Around: Renting a car is your best bet, but Reykjavik does have a public bus system called Strætó. If you feel like getting some fresh air, Reykjavik and Akureyri are very bike-able cities.

Travel Tip: Bring layers. It doesn't matter what kind of weather you think you'll be experiencing—chances are it will rain, sleet, snow, and be sunny all in the span of one afternoon. Do yourself a favor and bring a few extra layers to make sure you're prepared for it all.

Things to Do

Given Iceland's impressive landscape, there's so much to do in the larger cities of Reykjavik and Akureyri and beyond. Get out the city for at least one day to take in some of the most uninhabited areas, but a weekend in Reykjavik is never a bad idea. A good trip, if you're got two days to kill, is to head along the south through Vik and on to the Glacier Lagoon. Along the way, you'll see Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss , an ancient cave, beaches — Reynisfjara and Diamond Beach —and the indescribable Glacier Lagoon.

• Visit Þingvellir National Park : This is a highly trafficked area seeing over 1.3 million tourists in 2019.   But if you're short on time and want to see waterfalls, a geyser, and fields of lava, this is your best bet. Located a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik (you can see this as part of the Golden Circle drive ), it's the perfect day trip from the city. There are also tons of tour buses that regularly make trips this direction.
• Soak in a hot spring: Blue Lagoon is obviously the most Instagrammed hot spring in Iceland, but there are so many others out there. Secret Lagoon, which you'll find near Reykholt (about 90 minutes from Reykjavik) is a less crowded option. It's thought to be one of the oldest hot springs in the country and you can still get pretty close to the original changing house that's on-site. There are also tiny little geysers all around the pool. Here's a list of hot springs to visit.
• Take a hike: Exploring Iceland by foot is one of the best ways to see it. There are hikes all around the country. If you're looking for some lesser-walked paths, find a guide and head to the Central Highlands (which are only accessible during the summer months). If you're looking to get outside for an afternoon, head to Glymur, the country's second tallest waterfall. The hike to it will take you through a cave, across a river, and through some incredible canyons.

There are so many things to do across the country, it's impossible to share it all here; check out our guide to the top places to see in Iceland .

What to Eat and Drink

The seafood in Iceland can't be beaten, but there are a few interesting traditional dishes you can challenge your tastebuds with. If you think about Iceland's remote location, it's easy to imagine how creative locals had to be in order to survive, especially through such harsh winters. Fermented shark is a very traditional Icelandic dish. Although you won't find many people eating it now, there are a handful of places that offer it mostly for adventurous tourists. Puffin and whale are two other traditional meats you can try. Head to Tapas Barinn in Reykjavik, which has an Icelandic feast where you can try a little bit of everything. All traditional ingredients aside, don't leave without trying Plokkfiskur, a fish pie of sorts made of fish, potatoes, onions, and béchamel sauce. It's very common and very delicious.

Skyr — Icelandic yogurt — is a very popular ingredient for breakfast, snacks, and dessert. You'll find it incorporated into all kinds of dishes at local restaurants. It's also delicious on its own with a few berries for breakfast. This is the thing you'll be searching your hometown grocery store for once you get home.

Note that cocktails, beer, and wine are quite expensive in Iceland (again, remote location means higher import costs). That being said, treat yourself to a cocktail (or three). ROK, a restaurant near the iconic Hallgrimskirkja, has an incredible staff of bartenders who do magic with Brennivín, or Icelandic schnapps.

If craft beer is your thing, check out one of these places to try some local brews.

Where to Stay

There are plenty of hotels and hostels in larger cities (Reykjavik and Akureyri). You'll find a fair share of hostels in the smaller villages, as well, but don't expect luxury digs. There are a couple of boutique hotels around the country: Ion Hotel , Hotel Ranga , Silica Hotel (at the Blue Lagoon), and Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon . If you're looking for a more laidback experience, Airbnb is a fantastic option and will yield the most results (and range the most budgets) for your Iceland visit.

If you're looking for something truly one-of-a-kind, check out the Five Million Star Hotel . The property is actually a set of transparent bubble rooms owned by a local farmer in Southern Iceland near Fludir.

If you're planning to stay in the capital, check out our picks for the best hotels in Reykjavik.

Getting There

Flying to Iceland is quite easy. Icelandair has integrated free stopovers in the country into many of their European routes, making staying a few nights on your way to your final destination a convenient option. There are direct overnight flights from New York City, as well as regular routes from the West Coast of the United States. Icelandair's hub is Keflavík Airport (KEF). KEF is also the country's busiest airport by far, serving 7.2 million passengers in 2019 while the second busiest only served 350,000.  

Culture and Customs

The locals are incredibly kind and helpful, should you need advice on where to eat or how to get somewhere. Icelanders are also very dedicated to their history; it's worth reading up on before you go. Plus, so many of the important landmarks stem from ancient Icelandic history, from Þingvellir National Park to the lifting stones (a staple of Scandinavian strongman culture).

If there's one thing you research, it should be the word "hygge." This term describes act of feeling cozy, and it's the very best word to describe Iceland and its people. You'll find lots of candlelit rooms, jovial conversation, and families enjoying dinner together at home. It's also a very eco-friendly culture, given their close proximity to some of the world's most beautiful natural landscapes. Make sure to respect the uninhabited areas just as you would the busy city streets.

One thing to take very seriously is the elf culture. A lot of homes have tiny little houses in their gardens or backyards specifically for the elves. If you want to know more about the history of elves with a side of horseback riding, check out Eldhestar's half-day Elfin tour .

Money-Saving Tips

Iceland can be a tricky place to plan a budget-friendly vacation. The food and drinks are expensive, and hotels can also be pricey, but there are some ways to avoid a massive credit card statement.

• Check out farm stays over hotel visits. This is going to help you a lot if you plan on visiting the more rural parts of the country where hotel room rates can be astronomical.
• Go grocery shopping. Bónus is the local grocery store chain and it's a delightful experience. Not to mention the logo is a drunken pig with a black eye — it doesn't get more quirky than that. This will help you save a lot on dining out, and it's what most locals do most nights.
• Save money on bus tours, and rent a car. If you're traveling with a family, it will be a lot cheaper for you to rent a car and visit the sights instead of paying a tour fee for each person.
• Take advantage of happy hour. Most bars in Reykjavik have them — go out early and be rewarded.
• Stay in hostels. As you can imagine, hostels in Iceland are beautifully designed, and they offer private rooms with private bathrooms, in most cases. These private rooms are generally less expensive than hotel rooms, as well. Check out Kex and Oddsson in Reykjavik for some inspiration.

Eurostat, "Pupils by Education Level and Modern Foreign Language Studied - Absolute Numbers and % of Pupils by Language Studied." May 25, 2020.

Thingvellir National Park. "Visitors 2019."

Isavia. "Monthly Report — Traffic Statistics / Summary." December 2019.

The Best Day Trips From Reykjavik

Iceland's Golden Circle: The Complete Guide

The Top 22 Things to Do in Iceland

Thingvellir National Park: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Things to Do in Iceland During the Winter

Scandinavia and the Nordic Region: Planning Your Trip

Best Blue Lagoon Tours in Iceland

The Complete Guide to Iceland Hot Spring Etiquette

Enjoy Seven Days in Iceland

The 9 Best Glaciers to See in Iceland

The Top 10 Places to Visit in Iceland

January in Iceland: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The 20 Best Hot Springs Destinations in the World

The Top 10 Hot Springs to Visit in Iceland

Complete Guide to Iceland's Ring Road

The Best Game of Thrones Filming Locations to Visit in Iceland

Tips For Travel To Iceland: How to Plan a Perfect Trip to Iceland

January 11, 2024

Paula Martinelli

In this tips for travel to Iceland guide, you will find all you need, from how to travel around Iceland, and how to stay safe, how much it cost, how to save money traveling to Iceland , and what is the best time to travel to Iceland and finding accommodation & transportation options.

This guide has everything you need for planning your trip to Iceland and traveling safely.

Iceland is the land of light and darkness. Long summer days with nearly 24 hours of sunshine are offset by short winter days with only a few hours of daylight.

Iceland continuously ranks near the top for quality of life, gender equality, and democracy, and is one of the highest-ranked countries in the world for health care, education, and internet availability.

You can explore Iceland in as short as 5 days itinerary , or if you have more time, take the 10-day Ring Road self-drive around the island. As long as you plan well your trip, you will be able to visit some or many of the Top Landmarks in Iceland .

Tips for Travel to Iceland Essentials

LANGUAGE: The official language in Iceland is Icelandic, as well as English in touristy areas. 

CURRENCY:  The currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Krona (ISK) and the U.S. Dollar is not accepted. Check here  for the latest conversion rate. NOTE: Iceland can get VERY EXPENSIVE, so make sure to check out my tips to travel to Iceland on a budget.

TIPPING: It is not customary to tip in Iceland

CREDIT CARD & ATMS: In Iceland, you don’t need to carry much money with you, as Icelanders tend to pay for almost everything with a credit card. Note that you need a card that uses the chip and pin method. 

PLUGS: The standard voltage in Iceland is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The plugs in Iceland are Type F. I recommend buying a universal adapter and using a converter for hair dryers. 

Wi-Fi IN ICELAND: Wi-Fi is widely available in Iceland, and often for FREE at gas stations and the common areas at the hotel or Guesthouses. 

CELL PHONE SERVICE: Service is very reliable in Iceland, especially around large cities and the Ring Road. 

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

I recommend buying this WiFi router. You can insert any SIM card around the world, and it shares data across all your devices, up to 10, via WiFi and the battery lasts up to 12 hours.

Tips for Travel to Iceland Orientation

Let’s start this list of tips for traveling to Iceland with the Orientation. Iceland is an island country, located in the North Atlantic ocean. 

Because of Iceland’s location, on the active geologic border between North America and Europe, it is a land of vivid contrasts in climate, geography, and culture. 

Sparkling glaciers, such as Vatna Glacier, Europe’s largest, lie across its ruggedly beautiful mountain ranges; abundant hot geysers provide heat for many of the country’s homes and buildings and allow for hothouse agriculture year-round. 

The offshore Gulf Stream provides a surprisingly mild climate for what is one of the northernmost inhabited places on the planet.

How to Get a Visa to Iceland

In the first step of your trip, you need to understand the Iceland Visa requirements- Click here to check the Visa requirements for Iceland.

Iceland is not a member of the European Union (EU) but it is a Schengen Area Member State, which means it’s a zone that allows unrestricted movement without passport checks and border controls for those living in any of the member states.

If you are visiting from outside of the EU or the Schengen Area, you will only go through passport control at your first point of entry.

Citizens of many countries will not need a tourist or business Iceland visa for stays of less than 90 days in Iceland. There is a list of countries on their Directorate of Immigration site so check out those who do need a visa  and  those who don’t .

Flights to Iceland

If you live in the US, take advantage of the proximity and the prices for flights. I flew from Florida and took a direct flight of only 7 hours.

There are many options for direct flights from the US to Iceland and some very cheap options, for example, leaving from NYC for approximately $600.

• Choose to fly during the low season (Iceland wintertime)
• Compare prices leaving from different airports, instead of only considering a direct flight from your town. Sometimes a domestic connection is a good option and will save you some money.

There are several airlines for you to choose from, depending on your departure location. Your destination in Iceland will be the Keflavik Internation Airport (KEF). 

I recommend you browse and compare prices for the BEST DEAL with Expedia or Skyscanner  to find the best options for flights. 

How Long do I need to visit the Best of Iceland?

You can have as short as a few days, or if you are lucky have a few weeks.

I drove the Ring Road in 10 days – it is possible to drive the whole circuit in as short as 5 days , but it will be in a hurry. Or if you are lucky enough you can explore it at a slower pace in a couple of weeks.

Regardless of how long you decide to stay in Iceland, you can be sure to have a fantastic time and witness some of the world’s most breathtaking views. This Nordic island nation has something to offer everyone, and there is no doubt that you will return home refreshed and content.

What are the Best Destinations in Iceland?

During your planning trip to Iceland, first, you will need to decide how many days you have to explore, and what are your main interests. 

If you are planning to drive the Ring Road, you will be driving on Highway 1 as it goes around the whole country in a shape of a ring. You will follow this 882 miles (1,323-km) long route to be able to see a lot of the country. You also can get venture off on other roads so you can explore areas like the Westfjords, Snaefelisnes peninsula, and Reykjanes.

• If you have only 5 days, you can drive the Golden Circle
• If you have 10-days in Iceland, I recommend driving the Ring Road
• If you are interested in going off the beaten path, I recommend visiting the 10 Top Hidden Gems in Iceland

Below you can have an overview of Iceland’s main regions and things to expect to explore in each area. 

Here you can find some of the most visited attractions in Iceland, including waterfalls, and icebergs, and the landscape driving along the South Coast is incredible. 

SOUTH ICELAND

Here you can find some of the most visited attractions in Iceland, including waterfalls, and icebergs, and the landscape driving along the South Coast is incredible.

NORTH ICELAND

This area is less visited than South Iceland. With incredible volcanic features, especially around Lake Myvatn. This is my personal favorite region in Iceland 

SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA

Known as “small Iceland”; this fascinating geological region offers the real taste of Iceland: glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, fjords, and much more…

WEST/EAST FJORDS

They are on opposite sides of the Island, but in both, you can find stunning fjords, wildlife, lagoons, and lush farmlands

SOUTHWEST ICELAND

This is the most visited region in Iceland, the area around Reykjavik. Visit geothermal areas, geysers, waterfalls, and the famous Blue Lagoon

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS

In this area, you can explore by 4WD or hiking during summertime. Explore glaciers and wild mountains and volcanic desert

Iceland in 3 Minutes

How much does it Cost to Travel to Iceland?

How much does a trip to Iceland cost? Well…it depends. But one thing we all know: Iceland is expensive….actually Iceland is the most expensive country in Europe.

But depending on your travel style, it’s possible to travel to Iceland on a budget.

• MID RANGE: If you are going to stay at Guest Houses, cook some of your meals, rent a 2WD car, and do not drink alcohol for the duration of your trip, it’s safe to assume that your Iceland trip cost will be about $150 – $200 per day/ per person.
• BUDGET: Assuming that you’re intending to camp and hitchhike your entire trip it’s safe to assume that your Iceland trip cost will be about $60 – 75 per day/per person .

I have a complete and very detailed guide on how to Budget your trip to Iceland and how prices compare, in case you want to plan your finances before you travel to Iceland. 

Average Prices per Day/ 2 People

Transportation & getting around iceland.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN ICELAND:

Iceland is not comparable with the majority of European public transportation systems, therefore, the most effective way to get around the island nation is by car.

CAMPER VAN IN ICELAND:

If you have opted for the camper van route, the only other thing you’d need to factor into your Iceland transport costs would be fuel prices, which, are high. The average petrol price as of January 2022 is USD$2.02/ liter (or US$7.61/ Gallon). Here I explain in detail the price comparison between renting a car vs a camper van.

RENTAL CAR IN ICELAND:

If renting a car is your option to self-drive in Iceland, there are a number of rental companies to choose from. Also, keep in mind that a car with an automatic transmission often costs considerably more than a manual car. If you can drive a stick and want to save some money, by all means, make sure you are renting a manual transmission. Make sure you compare prices and rent your car from a reliable source.

Accommodations in Iceland

If you are traveling on a budget or opting for luxury, you will find accommodation to fit your needs in Iceland. The options you have are very diverse: Rent a camper van, hostel, farmhouse (B&B), cabin, mountain huts, or hotel.

I traveled during the shoulder season (April) and used a combination of Guest Houses & Hotels, and I was able to pay an average of $80 – $160 per day for 2 people.  

I found the best option to use farmhouses as they are pretty easy to find, are family-owned and operated, and provide an authentic experience to be able to interact with the lifestyle and farm animals.

Hostels in either of the 2 cities or large towns can be a good alternative where the cheapest dorm bed will set you back around  $35 per night/person.  

Another benefit of staying in a Farmhouse or Guest House is they often offer cooking areas so you can prepare your own meals and save money even further.

BUDGET OPTION: GUEST HOUSE

This is my favorite option. They are family-owned, and in general, are very well located around Iceland’s main visit points. Some guesthouses offer breakfast which is a great option to save money. Also, they offer a shared kitchen so you can prepare your own meals.

MIDE RANGE: PRIVATE CABIN

Another great option for accommodation in Iceland is to rent your private cabin. There are great options available, and they are normally well-located close to the main attractions.

Depending on your travel style, there are options from 1 to 5 stars, including international chains, and they are well-located. Remember it is recommended to book your accommodations in Iceland in advance during the high season (summer) and that during summer the midnight sun may test your tolerance for sleep deprivation.

What is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

Maybe you have heard or seen somewhere that the best time to visit Iceland is during summer. But actually, any time is a good time to visit Iceland, it will only depend on your expectations.

BEST TIME FOR SIGHTSEEING:

Iceland is renowned for its numerous spectacular waterfalls, geysers, and volcanoes. The best time to visit Iceland is to see as much as you can, you’ll want to have longer days, fewer crowds to interrupt the view, and weather that doesn’t make roads impassable. That means going in the weeks that frame either the end of the high season, around the last week of May through mid-June , or anytime in  September .

BEST TIME TO AVOID CROWDS:

If you’re hoping for a more relaxed experience without the crowds, avoid going to Iceland in the high season,  from mid-June  through  August . By visiting in  April or May ,  September or October , you’ll encounter fewer tourists, yet the days will be long enough to enjoy sightseeing and possibly decent weather (5 AM sunrise; 9:30 PM sunset). The fewest visitors come between November and March, but this is also when inclement weather and short, dark days can affect your plans.

BEST TIME TO SEE NORTHERN LIGHTS:

The best time to visit Iceland if you want to see the Northern Lights is late fall when nights are most likely to be dark and clear. There are a number of conditions required for them to be visible, including guaranteed darkness, which is why the best time to see them is from late September through late March  when there are full dark nights

BEST TIME FOR GOOD WEATHER:

The best time to visit Iceland for optimal weather is during the high season, particularly July and August  when average highs are around 13°C, though temps can reach as high as 15°C or even 20°C. If you’re hoping to avoid the rain, the lowest amount of rainfall occurs in  May and June , and temperatures are often a pleasant 11°C.

** BE AWARE **

Due to inclement weather, roads can be closed with little warning. One of the great resources is  http://road.is . This site will let you know what is open or closed. If you get wireless or wifi service, check this site daily. I tried going to a waterfall in the Myvatn region only to find that the road was closed. This detour cost me about 1 hour. If I had checked road.is I would have known prior to heading in that direction.

What is the weather like in Iceland?

Iceland enjoys a cool temperate maritime climate thanks to the Gulf Stream, but the weather is known to change quickly, and often.

Icelanders have a saying: “there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.” No matter the season, when you visit you should always have wind and water-resistant outerwear, as well as extra thermal layers on hand.

As for winter, Iceland is not all covered by ice and snow as its name would suggest. In fact, outside of the higher altitudes or parts of North Iceland, snowfall rarely stays on the ground longer than a few days.

Rain is more common, with October being the wettest month. Also, the cool northerly winds can be strong at times so we recommend an insulated or down jacket for winter visits.

Tips for Travel to Iceland: Safety in Iceland

When you are planning an Iceland trip, I am sure that safety comes into play. So, great news here! Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. The crime rate is extremely low.

It is one thing to think about safety related to crime, but it should also be related to our health during any physical activity, hiking, or driving around the country, for example.

In Iceland, it’s necessary to be cautious when traveling due to hazards caused by weather and nature, where conditions can change at a moment’s notice.

Nature is one of Iceland’s many attractions, and while beautiful, it can also be harsh and unpredictable. It is important to be prepared, aware of possible dangers, and know how to react in—or preferably prevent—difficult situations. The Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue  operates a useful website for travel in Iceland.

Food In Iceland

This is another important thing when you are planning your Iceland trip – Food!

I was pleasantly surprised by the food in Iceland. I didn’t have high expectations for the food, and I knew that options could be limited by the geography of the island.

However, I learned that the key elements of the Icelandic diet have changed very little since the country’s settlement over a thousand years ago, with the most popular dishes still being fish, lamb, and the Icelandic skyr (yogurt). Aside from lamb, you can also find traditional meats in grocery stores and restaurants like pork, beef, and chicken.

• Fish:   You can find good options pretty much everywhere in Iceland. It is very popular to find a dish with the fish of the day, or fish and chips. Some of the popular fishes are haddock, Atlantic wolfish, or cod, which has been caught by angling using live or artificial bait. Very fresh, and delicious!
• Lamb:  Another very popular dish you will find pretty much in every restaurant. Along with the fish, sheep have been the lifeblood of this nation since its arrival with the Vikings. The meat thus requires little seasoning; it is tender and has a mild flavor.
• Skyr:   You will see this yogurt taking a huge part of the shelves at the grocery stores, and I ate it every day for breakfast. It is made by separating skim milk from cream, the milk is then pasteurized, and live cultures from previous batches of skyr are added. When the product has thickened, it is then filtered, and various flavors are added, like vanilla or berries and more recently mango, and coconut. Delicious and great protein source!
• FAST FOOD IS EVERYWHERE –  Hot dogs, hamburgers, french fries, pizza, and fish and chips are EVERYWHERE! If you are looking for a quick fix for your hunger, you are covered and won’t have a hard time finding anything listed on this menu.

CONTROVERSIAL MEAT IN ICELAND: DO NOT EAT!

In the past, struggling coastal communities in Iceland had to use all of the natural resources available for survival – Including eating horses, whales, and puffin meat.  But nowadays thankfully we no longer live in a survival mode. If the tourists stop this nonsense habit and do not sustain this type of behavior, we can stop restaurants and local shops from continuing this practice.

There is a  Costco  on the way from the airport. If you are a member, consider stopping to buy snacks and food before you continue your adventure.

You can also find the local Iceland grocery stores   Netto  and   Bonus  for your grocery needs throughout Iceland. In smaller towns, you can only find local stores with limited items to sell and also convenience stores. Make sure you stock up on snacks, gas, and water before you leave the town – you may drive for hours without seeing anything.

Tips for Travel to Iceland: Best Tours

Iceland offers a huge variety of activities for all adventure travelers and fitness levels. You can stroll around a small town, hike up a crater or have an adventure such as ice climbing. and glacier hike.

Iceland has endless possibilities in every corner of the island. Just make sure you book the activities you are planning to do in advance, especially during the high season. These are some of the most popular:

GLACIER HIKING & ICE CLIMBING

More than 10% of Iceland is covered with glaciers, so it is the perfect place for glacier hiking and ice climbing.  Glacier hiking tours  range from easy to extreme, which means there’s an adventure that is sure to fit your style. Check here the Top 12 Glacier Tours in Iceland .

Iceland is filled with wonderful  opportunities for hiking ; there are hiking trails in every direction. No matter which way you turn, you will find a hiking trail, but make sure to stay on the trails so you don’t ruin the natural landscape.

WHITE WATER RAFTING

Iceland offers great options for a white water rafting adventure. Even though none of the rivers in Iceland offer Class 5 rapids, there are three rivers that offer adventurous rides down the river, one of which is categorized as a Class 4 river.

SNORKELING OR SCUBA AT SILFRA

One very popular activity in Iceland is snorkeling or scuba dive at the Silfra . Located in Thingvellir National Park, the Silfra rift is a fissure that lies between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The water is fed from the meltwater of a nearby glacier and visibility is top-notch. Because the water is between 2–4°C, dry-suits are necessary.

What to Pack for Iceland?

When planning an Iceland Trip remember the packing rules number one: LAYERS, LAYERS, and more LAYERS!!!

It seems that in every country I write about, I say the same thing: “bring layers” .

But especially in Iceland, you can have pretty much all the seasons on the same day…oh well, not necessarily summer, but I am talking about a big variation of a sunny day, rain, snow, and heavy winds, and then it will be sunny again.

The first thing is to check the weather of the season you are going to Iceland and pack accordingly. Here is a list with some essentials to pack:

• A Daybackp is essential
• Rainproof/windproof jacket
• Lightweight wool sweater
• Warm pants (leggings or hiking pants that you can layer)
• Fleece jacket and pants (for layers)
• Merino pants and long sleeve (for layers)
• The combo: Gloves, Scarves & Hat
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Swimsuit and quick-dry towel (for visiting pools and hot springs – towels and swimsuits are available for rent at swimming facilities)
• Sunblock (yes, I got a sunburn in Iceland)
• Chargers – computer, camera, cell phone…
• Invest in a DC 12V to AC 110V car power inverter . They are not expensive and make a world of difference when driving. Charge your phones, camera, drone, laptop, tablets, etc. while on the road.

If you are doing activities such as horse riding or ice climbing, they provide all the gear so, no need to pack it with you.

PACK SMART ALERT!

If you are planning to carry a backpack for your trip to Iceland, I have compiled a very detailed review of the Best Backpacks for Travel in the market today – Also, it doesn’t matter if it is summer or winter, you will need a good jacket for your trip to Iceland so check my complete review guide on the Top Jackets for Travel and pack smart!

My Photography & Electronic Equipment

We all know that Iceland is a very unique and magical place. It is impossible to not take many pictures and want to capture amazing moments while traveling around Iceland. 

Therefore, do not forget to bring your camera equipment with you:

• This is the camera I use and love – Sony Mirrorless a7III
• Bring a couple of good lenses for different pictures – I always carry this lens with me
• Extra memory cards 
• I recommend bringing some filters
• Tripod to photograph the waterfalls and depending on the time of the year, the Aurora Borealis. 
• If you want to capture amazing videos, I use and recommend a Gimble Smartphone Stabilizer
• I also recommend a GoP r o HERO9 for some action images videos and pictures.
• You can also capture incredible Drone images in Iceland. I use DJI Mavic Air 2

T he extreme weather in Iceland may damage your photography electronics. My camera stopped working in the middle of my trip, and I had to rely on my cell phone for pictures. The rain, mist from the waterfalls, sand from the beach, and strong winds are not the electronic best friends. I recommend using a plastic bag to evolve your camera.

Tips for Travel in Iceland Responsibly

To preserve one of the world’s most fragile environments, it is incredibly important that every Iceland traveler is conscious of their social and environmental footprint.

Iceland is ahead of much of the world in terms of ecotourism, and it is so important to be a Responsible Traveler when you visit Iceland.

You will notice that there aren’t many signs, fences, or other barriers around the natural wonders in Iceland. Please use your common sense.

• Do not step over ropes that are blocking an area  – Hot springs can be dangerously hot and rocks near waterfalls can be slippery. One of the wonderful things about Iceland is that there are no imposed regulations about where you can and cannot walk. Everything is wild, and it is up to the traveler to take their own personal responsibility.
• Don’t Vandalize the Moss  – they are incredibly delicate and it takes decades to recover
• Treat Wildlife with Respect  – they roam freely so it is important to treat any animal you may encounter with respect. This includes the horses! And be careful with bird colonies!
• Support the Whale-Watching Industry –  Whale hunting has been a historically significant part of Icelandic culture, and you can still find whales served in restaurants and supermarkets throughout the country. Whale hunting is still conducted in Iceland today, but supporting the whale-watching industry is the best way to help end this ancient practice permanently.

7 Essential Tips for Travel in Iceland

• DECIDE HOW MANY DAYS YOU HAVE AND WHAT YOU WANT TO VISIT: Depending on how many days you have to explore Iceland, you can visit the Golden Circle (5 days), the Ring Road (10-days) or if you have more time, you can include other locations. Check my Iceland Travel Guide for amazing ideas and itineraries. 
• BUY A GUIDE BOOK: During planning your trip to Iceland, an excellent resource is to buy an Iceland Travel guidebook . They have tons of great information on main attractions, places to stay, and many curiosities about Iceland’s culture.
• BOOK YOUR FLIGHT: There are great options to fly direct to Iceland. Book in advance to try to get a better deal. The flights are approx. 6-8 hours.  I recommend you browse and compare prices for the BEST DEAL with Expedia or Skyscanner  to find the best options for flights.  
• BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN ADVANCE: Iceland has great options for accommodations, but make sure you book in advance to take advantage of the best prices and best options. I recommend Booking.com  as it has a great policy of free cancelation.
• START PACKING: It will depend on when you go to Iceland to pack accordingly.  Check my recommended packing list and my expert review on the  Best Backpacks for Travel  here.
• BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER:  Responsible and Ethical traveling is REALLY IMPORTANT.   Check my complete guide
• BOOK ANY TOUR IN ADVANCE: There are great options for group or VIP tours in Iceland, just make sure you check the many options and book in advance. Check here  for options or check some options for you below:

Tips for Travel to Iceland Conclusion

I hope that by the end of the tips for travel to Iceland guide, you feel prepared to plan your dream trip to Iceland. But it can be expensive to travel to Iceland, so I recommend reading How to Plan a Trip to Iceland on a budget + FREE things to do .

Also, self-drive in Iceland is the best way to explore the land of ice, and life, check my complete 10-day Ring Road itinerary for more information .

During planning your trip to Iceland, make sure you do some preplanning, research, and understanding of what you are looking for will help make your travels far more successful and safe. As always, if you have any questions or recommendations, leave me a comment below and I will be glad to answer them.

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Plan your Trip

You can plan your trip with this easy guide and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices.

Perfect Iceland Ring Road 10-day Itinerary: Ultimate Road Trip + Map

How Much is a Trip to Iceland + Tips to Create your Budget for Iceland!

Discover the Perfect Iceland 5-day Itinerary

12 thoughts on “tips for travel to iceland: how to plan a perfect trip to iceland”.

Everything you need to know for an extraordinary trip through Iceland!!! Super complete.

Iceland is high on the list but man is that expensive. I mean, I heard it can be so that’s just something to prepare for, but I think it’s definitely somewhere I want to visit and it will be worth it. What beautiful views. Great to know a little more practical info on visiting

Absolutely love how detailed this post is! Iceland is an incredible place and I am glad it is re-open for tourism.

I have wanted to visit Iceland for so long! This guide literally has everything I would need to know about visiting and will come in super handy when I do go! Thank you for answering questions like when to visit, how to get around and what to expect.

Wow Paula this is such a comprehensive guide to Iceland, it really includes everything one possibly needs to know for a trip there! 🙂 It’s so nice to hear that Iceland is open for vaccinated people – I hope I get my vaccine soon so I can go there. Great post!

I’m hoping to plan a trip back to Iceland this year, or next year it all depends on the pandemic. So this will be super helpful for my planning!

Hi Krista, I hope you can visit Iceland this year, I am also considering visiting Iceland again. Since my last trip, I keep thinking about going back and continue to explore this amazing country.

I am so glad you enjoyed this guide Lina and glad to hear you found all the information you need. I am so relieved I had my vaccine and now I can start to plan my traveling again.

YOu made my day Vanessa – I really put a lot of effort on this guide to try to cover everything I could, and all I have learned from my trip to Iceland. Thanks for your kind words

Thanks so much Poonam, and I am very happy they are re-opening safely too

Oh yeah Emma, Iceland is not cheap. Of course, you can bring your cost lower, if you share a car and stay at hostels, but definitely, the costs are still high compare to other countries in Europe. I am glad you enjoyed this guide

Thanks Fernanda and I am so happy to hear you enjoyed this Iceland guide

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ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

Iceland Road Trip – planning tips + itinerary + best roads

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Let’s plan your Iceland Road Trip! Below is your step-by-step guide to start planning you Iceland Travels:

• when to visit,
• where to go (best roads and areas), 
• How to rent your car, 
• Tips to create your Iceland itinerary, 
• Tips to book accommodations;
• Tips to get ready to drive and travel. 

Note: This is for Spring, Summer and Autumn. if you are planning a road trip in Winter, better to read my specific Winter article .

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Iceland:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Iceland: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Whale Watching

Fun activity: Swimming in Silfra Fissure

My favorite places to stay:

• Reykjavik: see best rated hotels – e.g. Vintage Boutique Hotel
• Lake Myvatn: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Laxa
• Vik area: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Vik i Myrdal

STEP 0 – ESSENTIALS – How to Plan an Iceland Road Trip

As you go through the following steps to plan your road trip around Iceland, I recommend you keep the following in mind :

• Many amazing landscapes are very easy to reach, so don’t worry ! No stress, keep planning
• Don’t plan too much every day – you will get frustrated not to be able to stop as much since it is stunning everywhere
• Don’t overestimate your 4WD capacity – if you plan on going on the Central Highlands track, know that there will be river crossings and they can be quite difficult and changing during the day
• As you are approaching your Iceland road trip, stop watching the weather forecast . It will change every day and during the day, so just go with the flow of your planned Itinerary.
• Note – if you don’t want to plan your whole Iceland road trip on your own, you can head to my article about choosing a self-drive package .

STEP 1 – Decide when to visit Iceland

Iceland is beautiful and magical all year around. And the weather is always unpredictable. So, I don’t think weather should be too much of a factor when deciding when to visit Iceland (except for Winter vs Summer because of the snow). To my opinion the best time to pan your Iceland Road Trip is based on what you want to see.

Here is a summary ( For more info, read the full article  on the  Best time to visit Iceland including conditions and things to see):

June-August

• PROS – Long daylight hours, green scenery,
• You can see – lupine fields (June-July), midnight sun in June, whales, Puffins (May to mid-July)
• BUT Peak season: higher prices, more tourists; no chances of seeing aurora borealis (not enough dark hours)

May & September-beginning October

• My favorite time
• PROS – Still enough daylight hours, spring and autumn colors, roads still in good condition
• You can see – aurora borealis, Whales between May and September (Killer whales in May), Puffins in May
• BUT fewer accommodations are open, colder weather
• PROS – Not too many tourists, stunning landscapes with snow, interesting low light for photography, good prices
• You can see – aurora borealis, winter wonders such as the blue caves, frozen waterfalls, 
• BUT Difficult driving conditions, many roads closed, not many hours of light
• If you are planning a road trip in Winter – head to this article instead

STEP 2 – Where to go – Maps – Ring road or regions

Classic – iceland ring road road trip.

The most classic road trip to do in Iceland is to tour the Ring Road, also known as Route 1. It is great to get an overview of the country.

• The Ring Road is 1332km long (828mi) – Without stopping at all and staying only on Route 1,
• It would take you 16 to 17h to drive all around Iceland.
• It is fenced on a large portion, reducing the risks of having a sheep on the road (but not everywhere, so be careful
• A lot of the most famous sights are along the Road: Waterfalls, glaciers, lagoon, geothermal areas, volcanoes.
• You can check out my selection of the Best stops on the Ring Road

OR – Exploring the regions

OR you can stick to a few regions either

• if you have limited time
• or if you want to explore them more

Below are the main regions of Iceland with the things you can expect to see in each of them.

South-West Iceland

• Area – Reykjavik and the Reykjanes peninsula
• Roads – easy, options for moderate
• Main towns – Reykjavik, Keflavik (airport), Selfoss (gateway to South Coast)
• Things to see – waterfalls, geothermal areas, movement of tectonic places
• Famous attractions – Blue Lagoon , and the Golden Circle with Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, Geysir
• Check out the top things to do in the region here

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

• Area – North West of Reykjavik – ‘Iceland in miniature’ 
• Roads – easy around, some moderate and 4WD options
• Main towns – Borgarnes to access the peninsula, Grundarfjordur on the North Coast
• Things to see – Waterfalls, fjords, glacier, craters, giant lava formations, black sand beaches
• Famous attractions – Kirkjufell mountain and its waterfalls, lava cliffs of Arnarstapi
• Check out the top things to do in the region in this article

South Coast

• Area – the south coast 
• Roads – Easy, mostly Road 1
• Main towns – Vik ad Höfn
• Things to see – waterfalls, black sand beaches, mountains, glaciers, icebergs…
• Famous attractions – Seljalandsfoss , Skogafoss , Jokulsarlon lagoon , Diamond Beach  and so much more

North Iceland

• Area – My favorite region – as if on another planet
• Roads – mostly easy, some moderate and 4WD options
• Main towns – between   Egilsstadir and the Northern capital Akureyri
• Things to see – Geothermal fields, volcanic craters, Arctic ocean, waterfalls, giant lava formations
• Famous attractions – Dettifoss, Dimmuborgir, Hverir geothermal area, Godafoss, Lake Myvatn

East fjords

• Area – Some of the oldest rocks in Iceland, on the East coast
• Roads – easy to moderate
• Main towns – No large towns in the fjords
• Things to see – Forest, lush farmlands, small fjords and fishing villages…
• Famous attractions – just driving

West Fjords

• Area – North West peninsula – Isolated region with relatively unspoiled wilderness
• Roads – Not easy, but open to 4WD
• Main towns – Isafjordur
• Things to see – Waterfalls, fjords, beaches, bird life
• Famous attractions – Dynjandi waterfall

Central Highlands

• Area – Wild mountains and glacier which can be explored during Summer only with a 4WD
• Roads – F-roads, 4WD only
• Main towns – none
• Things to see – magnificent unspoilt nature with colorful mountains
• Famous attractions – Landmannalaugar , Sigodulgljufur canyon

Best roads in Iceland for road trips

Some of the most famous roads in Iceland to include on your road trip are:

• The Ring Road that allows you to tour the island
• The Golden Circle, the most famous small loop not far from Reykjavik – in one or two days – learn more
• The Silver Circle, a lesser known road with lava tube and waterfalls – in one or two days – learn more
• The Road around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to see the “Iceland in miniature” – learn more
• F-208 through the Central Highlands – 4WD mandatory (with river crossings)

All my favorite locations in Iceland can be found in my travel guide eBooks that help you plan your road trip:

Plan your dream trip to Iceland with my guides!

• 8 easy-to-plan maps
• 100+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates 
• Useful planning tips
• 130+ large photos 

• 2 easy-to-plan maps
• 30 stops, 10 detours
• 70+ large photos 

STEP 3 – How long to plan for your road trip in Iceland

The first criteria is, of course: How much travel time can you have… 

If you have no flexibility, you can jump to the next step. If you have flexibility, here are a few facts to keep in mind:

• Speed limit on the best paved roads is 90 km/hour but unpaved sections are at 80km/h 
• You will want to stop every 5 minutes to look at the changing scenery or take a photo – this is inevitable

How long does it take the drive completely around Iceland

• As written earlier, without stopping at all and staying only on Route 1, it would take you 16 to 17h to drive all around Iceland.
• However, if you wan to cover all of Iceland you have to add the Golden Circle, the Snaefellsnes peninsula, detours to northern areas of North Iceland and the West fjords – so maybe 50h of driving

Can you drive around Iceland in 7 days?

With the long days of Summer, it is possible to do the Ring Road within 7 days. However, you have to be really careful where to stop. You have to limit yourself on the attractions you can see. Therefore, I would not recommend attempting the all-around Ring Road in 7 days, you would have to rush all the time and it will be frustrating.

From my experience and discussion with local tour guides, I think to really enjoy it you need at least:

• Reykjavik – Golden circle: 2 to 3 days
• Snaefellsnes – 2 to 3 days
• South Iceland – 3 to 4 days
• West Fjords – 2 to 4 days
• East Iceland – 2 days
• North Iceland – 4/5 days (including 2 to 3 around Myvatn)
• Central Highlands – at least one day for Landmannalaugar with 4 WD but there is so much more to see!

Of course, you can do just a snapshot of each region with 1 day or max 2 days in each. But it will be rushed.

Driving times

And here is a map with some driving times to help you more:

The question of an Iceland road trip cost

Your time in Iceland might also be limited by your budget. However it is very difficult to give you an idea of what it would look like because it depends on a lot of factors (use of campervan, type of accommodation, type of cars, number of travelers…).

The best is to plan your ideal road trip itinerary, check out the cost and see how to adapt to fit your budget.

Another option is to check self-drive packages, that give you an overall idea of prices:

• SUMMER – 7 days  – South of Iceland + Golden Circle –  Check out program and latest prices
• SUMMER   – 10 days  – Best of Ring Road + Snaefellsnes Peninsula –  Check out program and latest prices
• SUMMER – 14 days  – Complete Iceland overview including the Westfjords –  Check out program and latest prices

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

STEP 4 – Book your flight

So now that you have chosen when to go, where to go and for how long, you are ready to book your flight.

Choose flight

Compare flight prices

First, check the Visa requirement for your type of passport. Iceland is part of the Schengen Visa Agreement. Here is the list of countries where a visa is needed to visit Iceland 

Note that all international flights arriving in Iceland land at the Keflavik airport. It is a 40min drive to reach Reykjavik from there. They have shuttles and private transfers if you are not renting a car right away – book here Whereas the regional airport for the few internal flight options (such as going to Akureyri in the North) is located near Reykjavik.

STEP 5 – Rent the right car for your Icelandic Road Trip

Now that you have a rough idea of where you are going and what type of roads you are going to take, you can decide on the car to rent. Here are a few tips to consider when renting a car in Iceland:

• TIMING – Iceland is a popular destination – for choice and good price, book as early as possible
• 2WD / 4WD – If you plan on driving on F-roads, a 4WD is mandatory – Otherwise 2WD is sufficient but a simple 4WD allows you to enter any road that looks inspiring without worry
• RENTAL COMPANIES –  When choosing the company, don’t just look at price, consider the age of the fleet, included mileage, 24/7 customer service, servicing availability…
• INSURANCES – Check all types of insurance and decide on the level of risk you are ready to take. For peace of mind, I strongly recommend the Gravel Protection one
• BOOK early to have better price and good choice of cars

For more information, head to my  complete guide to selecting your rental car of Iceland (car types, companies, insurance, tips…)

My recommendations:

• My favorite comparison site  (one of the best rated internationally) – See here to compare prices on International rental brands:  Discovercars.c o m
• Or consider a local brand  – there are many local car rental agencies in Iceland. It is not easy to compare. But  on this website  GuidetoIceland.com , they have gathered almost all of them and you can compare the vehicles and prices for the dates you are interested in.
• Both websites collect many customer reviews / ratings

STEP 6 – Create a detailed Iceland Road Trip itinerary

Ok now it is time to dig deeper and create a more detailed itinerary. This will help you decide where to sleep and for how many nights.

As before, to help you plan your itinerary you can:

• My suggested itineraries for 5 days in Iceland
• My suggested for 7 days in Iceland itineraries
• My 4 itineraries to spend 10 days in Iceland
• And my favorite itinerary for 14 days around Iceland
• Go through my 60+ articles on Iceland
• Get one of my eBooks with practical maps and structured information made to facilitate planning:

Essential tips for you Iceland itinerary:

When planning your itinerary don’t forget to consider the following essentials:

• Driving times – Always plan more time to go from point A to point B than what Google says. You will want to stop all the time to admire the scenery, so if you plan too much you will feel frustrated not to be able to.
• Daylight hours – Check out the daylight time you have available when you are traveling. Because of the latitude, the length of days varies greatly. Check out how long you have to see all the sites during the days 
• Road closures  – Know that F-roads (difficult non paved tracks with river crossings most of the time) are only opened from mid-June to sometime in September. Dates change every year depending on the conditions. Most of those roads lead to the central highlands.
• Road conditions – Know that in Winter, road conditions can change abruptly, with sometimes snowstorms. Really don’t plan too much
• Accommodation options – You can’t just stop your itinerary on one day in the middle of no-where, you might not find accommodation. So, try to plan around the big hubs as listed in the next step.

Example: 10 day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

• Day 1 –  Reykjavik to Vik with at least Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Reynisfjara beach – Sleep around Vik –  check out best rated accommodations
• Day 2 –  Vik to Jokulsarlon with at least Fjadrargljufur canyon and Skaftafell National Park (and Jokulsarlon for sunset) Sleep around Jokulsarlon –  check out best rated accommodations
• Day 3 –  Jokulsarlon to Höfn with at least Jokulsarlon for sunrise, Diamond beach, (ice cave in in Winter), Fjallsarlon, Höfn peninsula Sleep in Höfn –  check out best rated accommodations
• Day 4 –  Höfn to Egilsstadir – driving around the East Fjords Sleep in Egilsstadir –  check out best rated accommodations
• Day 5 –  Egilsstadir to Lake Myvatn (Reykjahlid) – enjoy some of the Myvatn attractions Sleep in Reykjahlid –  check out best rated accommodations
• Day 6 – Myvatn – enjoy more of the Myvatn attractions Sleep in Reykjahlid –  check out best rated accommodations  (or in Godafoss to enjoy the sunset –  see hotel )
• Day 7 –  Myvatn to Akureyri with at least Godafoss, Town of Akureyri and Whale watching Sleep in Akureyri –  check out best rated accommodations
• Day 8 –  Akureyri to Borgarnes with longer drive, Grabrokargigar and small detours possible Sleep in Borgarnes –  check out best rated accommodations
• Day 9 –  Borgarnes to Reykjavik and visit the capital city (alternative: Tour of Snaefellsnes peninsula or Golden Circle) Sleep in Reykjavik –  check out best rated accommodations
• Day 10 –  Visit of Reykjavik Sleep in Reykjavik –  check out best rated accommodations

Use my travel guides eBooks to choose the stops you are most interested in each day.

STEP 7 – Book accommodations

As one of my taxi drivers mentioned, with the boom of tourism in Iceland, accommodations are appearing everywhere, especially guesthouses. The options are as usual: camping, minivan/motorhome, hostels, guesthouses, hotels, farm stay.

A few points to keep in mind:

• During peak season, accommodations fill up quickly especially those well located
• Off peak season, many are closed so it can also be hard to find accommodation if you look at the last minute (I looked at it 6 weeks beforehand and options were limited for the Myvatn area)
• A lot of rooms in Guesthouses have to share bathrooms – I have seen many reviews by people who were surprised. So, when you book, check the details!
• Renting a campervan or camping is also a great option to save money, stay closer to nature. But know that it is cold at night, so be mindful of how you are willing to travel. In September I still saw a lot of campers. Layers Layers Layers! –  Check out some Mini-camper and van options
• Or read my complete guide about the best places to stay in Iceland

Practical accommodation hubs to stay at around Iceland:

Accommodations in South-West Iceland

• Reykjavik of course –  Check out the best rated accommodations in Reykjavik
• another option is to stay near the airport at Keflavik. It is also nice –  Check out the best rated accommodations in Keflavik
• Selfoss is ideally located between the Golden Circle and the South Coast –   see best rated accommodations

Accommodations on the Snaefellsnes peninsula

• Grundarfjordur is the most sought after specially for photographers since it is 5 min away from the magnificent Kirkjufell –  Check out the best rated accommodations in Grundarfjordur
• Or for a stop on the Ring Road that makes a great departure points of a day around the peninsula, choose Borgarnes – check out the best rated accommodations in Borgarnes

Accommodations in South Iceland + East Fjords

• Vik is the main touristic hub on the South Coast. Located between the waterfalls and the Lagoons, it has its own interest with basalt columns and black sand beach –  Check out the best rated accommodations in Vik
• At the East end of the South Coast is Höfn. A good place to stop along the Ring Road before or after the East Fjords – Check out the best rated accommodations in Höfn

Accommodations in North Iceland + East Fjords

• Egilsstadir is a practical location to transition between East fjords and North Iceland – see best rated accommodations
• Lake Myvatn has so much to offer. It is a fascinating place to explore. I recommend staying several night in the vicinity to be able to see all it has to offer – Check out the best rated accommodations around Lake Myvatn
• Akureyri is the capital of the North – see best rated accommodations

Accommodations in the West Fjords

• The main touristic town in the west fjords is Isafjordur at the end of a magnificent fjord –  Check out the best rated accommodations in Isafjordur

STEP 8 – Get all the equipment you need

Wondering what to take with you to Iceland?

What type of clothes and shoes would be the most practical? What you should not forget? The main things to know is to bring Layers, Layers, Layers. This way, whenever the weather changes during the day you can easily adapt what you are wearing – layers to get warm, to protect against the wind or to protect against the rain/snow

Check out my  complete article with detailed suggestions and tips on what to wear and pack for Iceland – detailed lists for both Summer and Winter.

And keep track of your own trip!

STEP 9 – Get ready to drive

The main driving rules to know are:

• Alcohol limit = 0
• Lights shall be turned at all times
• Do not use cell phone while driving
• Speed limits is 50 km/h in urban areas. Outside towns, it is 90 on paved roads and 80 on gravel roads (although I rarely was driving at 80 on those…)
• Seatbelts are mandatory for all

You can learn more and get ready with my article about driving in Iceland .

Below is a video to give you an idea of what driving in Iceland looks like:

Fill your GPS with the coordinates

What I hate most when traveling is wasting time. Turning around to find a place, missing an exit. Sometimes it leads to adventure, but most of the time it just leads to frustrationThis is why I don’t rent a GPS with the car. I have my own Tom Tom. This way I can use the MyDrive system on my computer to add all the hotel GPS coordinates as well as the carpark coordinates for all the attractions I would like to see.

This way I just pick the favorite and follow the directions!!!

Get it on Amazon

NOTE – All the locations in my eBooks include the GPS coordinates of the nearest carpark, exactly for that reason:

STEP 10 – Get ready to travel in Iceland

Communicate with locals.

Of course, like in any country, it is always appreciated when you try a few words in their language (which is called Icelandic by the way).

• Hello – Halló
• Thanks – Takk or Takk fyrir
• Cheers! – Skál!

For more, check out the  wikitravel phrasebook page

Understand the name of places

Also, there are a few words that are useful to be recognized so that when you see a sign you can realize what type of scenery it will be, and you can decide if you want to explore:

• Jökull – Glacier
• Kirkja – Church
• Sarlon – Lagoon
• Fell – Mountain
• Foss/Fossar – Waterfall
• Hraun – Lava

Money 

• Currency: Icelandic Kronur
• Tipping: not mandatory
• Payment : Cash dispensers only in the cities (so plan ahead) but credit cards are taken everywhere and for all amounts
• Exchange your cash before leaving because you will not be able to do it outside Iceland

Food and drinks

• If you like fish, you will be spoiled.
• For the meat you can find everything, but it serves a lot of mutton.
• A classic snack in Iceland is the hot dog. They mix sauces, but nothing very original.
• For snacking they like dried fish but the smell alone will discourage many of you…
• Enjoy the delicious fresh water that comes out of the tap from the ice cream parlors
• alcohol is rather expensive

Good to know

• Showers: hot water can smell like sulfur. Don’t worry, it’s just from the heating system. No danger.
• Visa: no visa required for French people with a valid passport and staying less than 90 days
• Wifi – often available for free in gas stations. All the accommodations where I stayed had wifi at least in the common areas
• Telephone – no problem along Route 1
• Physical level – I was a little worried before I left because I was not very fit but for most places, access is very easy.
• Don’t forget to have insurance!

SPECIA L TIPS – Iceland Road Trip in Winter

An Iceland Road Trip in Winter is quite different from one in Summer. So here are a few things to keep in mind:

• December, January and February are the coldest months – but they are not as cold as we imagine!
• Don’t plan too much. The days are short! for example in January you have only 4h30 to 7h of daylight
• Beginning of March is often a popular month because the days are longer and you can see a bit more, the nights are still long enough to see Northern lights, and the ice caves are accessible
• Early winter can be wet, but you can have beautiful clear road with the top of the mountains covered in snow. I love those types of moments!
• If one of your main goals is to admire the aurora Borealis and you have the possibility to pick your dates, look at the moon calendar, and avoid the days where the moon is big and bright because it will reduce how well you can see the northern lights.

Learn more on my article about planning a Winter road trip around Iceland or the options to visit Iceland in Winter

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Reader Interactions

December 7, 2018 at 10:38 AM

Very nice writeup. Useful. I am in India, aged 70. I love to visit iceland. Not self driving. Can you suggest a good tour company- reliable & affordable. Mine will be a customized itinerary.Want to do Golden Crcle & South coast Iceland- with snowmobiling in Longjokull glacier & see glacier tongue of Svinafelsjokull glacier.Can you please help.

December 7, 2018 at 12:45 PM

Sir It is me ; Mrs.Banumathi Janarthanan again. Can you suggest the best month for the tour I have mentioned. Consider my age too.

December 7, 2018 at 5:08 PM

Hello I recommend May or September to have long enough days, good driving conditions but less tourists around. Regarding companies, I don’t have have a recommendation. You can contact Guidetoiceland , They work with a lot of local companies and they may have suggestion for what you need. However note that a private driver in Iceland is a significant budget for someone looking for affordable. Happy travels!

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Home » Blog » Incredible Iceland Road Trip Itinerary and Planning Guide

Incredible Iceland Road Trip Itinerary and Planning Guide

Iceland is one of my absolute favorite road trip destinations in the entire world. There aren’t many other places where you can drive right past towering glaciers, lagoons filled with icebergs, active volcanoes, dramatic mountain peaks, and even coastal fjords. If you get lucky, your vehicle may even light up a vibrant green as the northern lights dance in the sky above.

The main road around Iceland is Route 1, also known as the “Iceland ring road”. This travels a 1,322 kilometers (821 miles) loop around the country. While technically possible in a day trip, you are definitely going to want to take your time exploring this insanely beautiful part of the world. My 7 day Iceland road trip itinerary is going to help you do just that! Plus, I’m sharing options to extend your trip or cut it down to a 3 day Iceland itinerary.

Disclaimer : This blog post may feature some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free guides and resources for my readers. Learn more about my affiliate policy  here . Thank you for the support!

Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

Having been to Iceland four times now and experiencing all four seasons, I feel like I have a pretty good grasp of how to maximize my time there. This blog post is based on my own firsthand experiences , plus some additional information I have also learned from friends and locals.

Keep in mind that this blog post is aimed at travelers with their own vehicles (rental cars, camper vans , etc). Driving in Iceland is very easy and there isn’t much difference compared to driving in the US or other first-world countries. This Iceland itinerary is also based on a summer and shoulder season perspective, but I will touch on the differences between traveling in these seasons and traveling the country in the winter.

Best Iceland Road Trip Route

Below you will find a general idea of the routes I suggest for both a 7 day and 3 day Iceland road trip itinerary. Ignore the driving times as not every single stop is included, just enough to show the general direction and route . In the next section, we will break down the actual stops for each day of your trip!

7 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary Route

3 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary Route

Where To Start and End Your Iceland Road Trip

You will be starting and ending your road trip in Reykjavik , or more specifically, the rental car area near the Keflavik airport. In saying that, you could jump on these itineraries at any stage of your Iceland vacation and you may opt to start/finish in different spots.

How Long To Spend on An Iceland Road Trip

In my opinion, 7 days is a great amount of time for most people to spend road tripping Iceland. Even better would be 10-14 days, especially if you like to take it slow or enjoy capturing photos at sunrise and sunset. A 3 day stopover is very fast, but it’s definitely enough time to get a good taste of what Iceland has to offer if that’s the only time you have.

Below I will give a day-by-day breakdown for the ultimate 7 day Iceland road trip itinerary. Then afterward I will provide suggestions on how to spend any extra days, e.g. if you opt to take a 10-14 day road trip. I will also provide an itinerary for a much quicker 3 day Iceland visit… so don’t worry, I’m going to make sure you have the best Iceland road trip no matter how long you are there!

7 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

With this itinerary, I’m using my first-hand experience to help you put together a dream 7-day Iceland road trip . I’ll also share some of my favorite scenic stops, hikes, suggestions of where to stay, and some of my favorite food options along the way.

I feel it’s important to note that this may need to change slightly depending on the time of year you visit and available daylight hours . Mid-spring through mid-autumn will be optimal in terms of having enough daylight hours to see every stop. Visitors in early spring, late fall, or winter may need to look up the stops I suggest and then prioritize the ones that look the most interesting to them.

Day 1: Reykjavik to Vik

You will be starting day 1 in Reykjavik or Keflavik Airport . The majority of international flights seem to arrive very first thing in the morning, so I am presuming this is the case for your vacation. From here you will pick up your rental car or camper van and begin your journey! Most rental car companies have a location near the airport or will provide a shuttle bus into Reykjavik.

Stop 1: selfoss

Not the most exciting of stops for your first one, but one thing I’ve learned about Iceland is that it’s always important to have snacks on hand! You might find yourself spending longer in an area than you intended, and thus need something to keep you fueled until your next meal. The Krónan grocery store in the city of Selfoss is on the way to your next destination and also large enough to have all you will need. Pick up snacks, groceries, water, cooking propane, etc.

Read next: 12 Best Road Trip Planner Apps to Find Cheap Gas, Campsites, Hiking Trails, and More

Stop 2: Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland, and for good reason. Here you can follow a nice trail to all different views of the falls, and even walk behind it! Don’t forget a rain jacket even if it’s sunny out, the spray from the falls can drench you quickly depending on the wind direction.

A bonus stop is following the trail north a short distance from Seljalandsfoss, and you’ll be able to check out another waterfall called Gljufrabui . However, it involves walking through a small canyon, and the spray can be pretty strong. You have to be prepared to get wet for this one, but it’s worth it for the experience and some cool photos.

Suggested rain jackets: Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket , Arc’teryx Zeta SL Jacket  (Gore-Tex), Columbia Splash A Little II Jacket

Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket

Arc’teryx Zeta SL Jacket

Columbia Splash A Little II Jacket

Stop 3: Skogafoss

This is definitely one of my favorite stops in southern Iceland! Skogafoss is SO dramatic, and the birds flying all around really add to the atmosphere as well. Similar to Seljalandsfoss, bring a rain jacket if you plan to get close to the waterfall as the spray is pretty hectic. There is another beautiful canyon just to the east which takes you on a short walk to another waterfall, Kvernufoss . This one is also worth checking out if you have the time! It’s far less crowded than Skogafoss.

Stop 4: Dyrholaey

Dyrholaey is a small peninsula with epic 360 views out to surrounding glaciers, coastline, mountains, and more. It is also famous for its picturesque rock arch and the lighthouse perched on top. In fact, this is one of my favorite spots to catch a sunrise or sunset in the area. Be mindful of seasonal closures due to puffin nesting . This typically happens around late spring-summer from the evening until early morning. On the way out to Dyrholaey, you can check out the Loftsalahellir Cave which is just a short walk from the roadside. This is a fun photo spot for the photographers out there!

Read next: How To Take Better Travel Photos

Stop 5: reynisfjara

Another of my favorite stops on an Iceland road trip, Reynisfjara is a beautiful stretch of coastline that is covered in black pebbles instead of sand… super cool! There are also some incredible basalt columns in this area that make for great photos, as well as some sea stacks. Be mindful of the crazy sneaker waves at this location, as tourists have died after being swept out to sea by unexpected waves.

Stop 5: vik

Vik is one of my favorite towns in all of Iceland. It’s beautifully located, has plenty of amenities, and is only a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavik. This is also a great spot to stop for the night to enjoy a nice meal and slow down after a busy first day. While in town I recommend driving up to the Vik i Myrdal Church for great views of Vik. You can also check out the black sand beach if you feel like taking a walk. As for food, I recommend dinner at Smiðjan Brugghús . In fact, this was one of our favorite food stops in Iceland as we loved their burgers, craft beer, and cauliflower wings.

Fun fact : Despite its beauty, lupine is actually an invasive species to Iceland and threatens existing plants and ecosystems. Climate change is not helping the situation and as it spreads more and more some Icelanders even want the plant eradicated. I wouldn’t typically condone picking wildflowers, but in the instance above I had been assured by locals that it was harmless.

Where to Stay In Vik

• Suggested hotel: Hotel Vík í Mýrdal
• Suggested rental: Modern and clean Vik vacation rental
• Suggested campground: Vik Campsite

Day 2: Vik to Hofn

You’ll be starting day 2 in Vik with an early start (grab coffee at Skool Beans !), and end the day in the town of Hofn . This involves around 3.5 hours of driving total. This is a big day with SO much to see and quite a lot of hiking, so start early and give yourself time to really take it all in.

Stop 1: Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Also known as “The Majestic Canyon”, Fjadrargljufur Canyon is an awesome first stop of the day to stretch the legs and see some of Iceland’s unique geology. A 3km (2 mile) round-trip trail takes you along the top of its moss-covered rocky cliffs and provides gorgeous views of the vibrant Fjaðrá river below. Please respect the barriers put up by land managers to protect the fragility of the area.

Read next: How To Follow Leave No Trace When Exploring the Outdoors

Stop 2: svinafellsjokull

Next up is the ever-so-dramatic Svinafellsjokull glacier . This is one of the most accessible, close-up glacier views in all of Iceland. Just a short walk from the parking lot will give you crazy views of the glacier and the lagoon that it is leaving behind as it melts with rising temperatures. If you’re visiting during the midnight sun and have plenty of daylight hours, you could also consider stopping by the nearby waterfall Svartifoss .

Stop 3: Mulagljufur Canyon

Mulagljufur Canyon might be my favorite spot in all of Iceland! It’s not as popular as many of the other locations along Iceland’s South Coast, so you will likely have it to yourself (or with very few people). The hike out to the viewpoint at the top of the canyon is around 4.5km (3 miles) round-trip with 200 meters (640 feet) of elevation change. This is a truly breathtaking hike that I cannot recommend enough. It’s also one of those spots I will return to again and again.

Read next: What To Wear Hiking as a Woman

Stop 4: Fjallsarlon, jokulsarlon, and diamond beach

I’ve lumped these together because they are all close, but these are three different stops. Fjallsarlon is the first stop in this area. Here you can drive up to a parking lot and get insane views of the Fjallsjokull glacier . Fjallsjokull makes its way down to the lagoon, and as the ice breaks off, it floats around making for some really cool photo opportunities.

Next, drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon , one of the most famous and beautiful places in Iceland. Jökulsárlón is essentially a much bigger version of Fjallsarlon, but the water is more clear and blue in appearance. At Jökulsárlón you can walk around the lagoon as far as you like, take a boat tour, grab a bite to eat, or use the restrooms. This is also a great spot for sunset photos.

Your last stop of the day is a walk down Diamond Beach . Here, ice is taken out of Jokulsarlon with the tide, then washed up on this stretch of coastline with the waves. There aren’t many places around the world where you can find ice on the beach, and that’s what makes this spot so unique. The amount of ice you find on this beach will depend greatly on how much ice has fallen off the glacier recently, the current tide cycle , etc. Because of this, some people will find a beach completely covered in ice, while others might find almost no ice at all.

Stop 6: hofn

You will end your day in the fishing village of Hofn . This town has really embraced tourism in the last 5 years and expanded its amenities greatly. We had some really delicious food here at places like Ups (great for vegetarians, also cheap), Pakkhus , Ishusid Pizza , and Hafnarbudin .

Where to Stay In Hofn

• Suggested hotel: Seljavellir Guesthouse
• Suggested rental: Aurora Cabins Vacation Rental
• Suggested campground: Camping Höfn

Day 3: Hofn to Seydisfjordur

Day 3 of your Iceland road trip starts in Hofn and will be ending in the gorgeous town of Seydisfjordur . There are only around 2.5 hours of driving total for today, but plenty to see along the way, plus a nice hike to get the blood pumping!

Stop 1: vestahorn (Stokksnes)

Your first stop of the morning will be at Vestrahorn (also known as Stokksnes). There is an entrance fee of about USD 7.50, but it is well worth it. This is another of my absolute favorite stops in Iceland, and I’ve been more than a handful of times. Sunrise is an absolute dream here if you can stomach the early rise, and thankfully it’s close to Hofn so not a big backtrack to get food afterward.

Stop 2: east fjords

The East Fjords make up a large region in eastern Iceland. I’ve been less specific with the stops in this area because my favorite thing here is to just stop whenever something catches my eye. Everything is so stunning in the East Fjords, so take it slow and enjoy the views. There are also several roadside waterfalls , so feel free to pull over and walk to one or two along the way. Keep an eye out for reindeer , we saw quite a few in this region during our last visit in the late spring/early summer.

If you like hot springs then consider stopping off at Djúpavogskörin Natural Geothermal Pool . In addition, this pool is located right next to the Ring Road (route 1) and has beautiful views. It’s also very hot, so you may not even get all the way in!

One thing to note is that Google Maps may take you off route 1 near Breiðdalsvík and over route 95 into Egilsstadir. This is the quickest way, and it is beautiful, though a little bumpy and rough. I personally like route 95, but if you want to stick to the highway you can instead choose to continue the longer way on route 1 to the next stop. Route 1 will also take you through Egilstaddir before the next stop in case you’re hungry and need a break. Alternatively, you can choose to detour into Egilsstadir if you take route 95 as well.

Stop 3: hengifoss and litlanesfoss

Your next stop will be the beautiful waterfalls of Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss. Hengifoss is the third highest waterfall in all of Iceland and is famous for the red banding in the cliffs around it. To reach it requires a steep 4.5km (3 miles) roundtrip hike. But if you don’t want to go the whole way to the base of Hengifoss, you can shave off 1.5km (1 mile) round-trip by stopping at the bench viewpoint of Hengifoss above Litlanesfoss and turning around there. There are also restrooms at the parking lot and parking is free.

Read next: Beginners Guide to Hiking

Stop 4: seydisfjordur

While in east Iceland, Seydisfjordur is a quaint coastal town definitely worth checking out. A popular tourist attraction here is the rainbow road leading to the town’s church, a symbol of Iceland’s progressive nature. This is also a great spot to rest for the night, so grab a meal in town, enjoy the fjord views, and rest up.

Where to Stay In Seydisfjordur

• Suggested hotel: Við Lónið Guesthouse
• Suggested rental: Vínland Cottage
• Suggested campground: Seydisfjordur Camping Site

Day 4: Seydisfjordur to Husavik

Over the course of day 4, you will be making your way from Egilsstadir and ending in another beautiful fishing village called Husavik . The total drive time is around 4.5 hours, with short walks at the scenic stops along the way.

Stop 1: Studlagil Canyon

You have probably all seen this spot on Instagram by now. Stuðlagil Canyon is famous for its Basalt columns that rise from a vibrant blue river, creating the most surreal and dreamy views in the northeast region of Iceland. To get here with the least amount of walking, you’ll want to drive to the location listed as “ Carpark Stuðlagil East side Canyon ” on GoogleMaps, cross the larger bridge (not the smaller one next to it), then turn right. You will be entering a farmer’s property , but they allow it as long as visitors respect the land. Continue along the dirt road and turn into the parking lot signed on the right, just before a basalt waterfall called Stuðlafoss . From here it is about a 1.5km (1 mile) walk each way to the canyon.

Note that you can also visit Stuðlagil Canyon from the other side of the river and this option requires minimal walking, but in my opinion, the views aren’t as epic. To get to the drive-up spot, simply navigate to “ Stuðlagil Canyon Parking ” on GoogleMaps and it will take you to the viewing area. In fact, this area has a proper paved parking lot, bathrooms, and a campground.

Read next: Hiking Trail Etiquette Rules You Should Know and Follow

Stop 2: dettifoss

Dettifoss is one of the most intense waterfalls I have ever seen and is said to be the second most powerful waterfall in all of Europe. You can view the falls from either the east or west side, but the west side is the most popular parking lot and has more managed trails, bathrooms, and viewpoints. Click here for directions to the west side parking lot .

Want to see puffins? You could adjust this itinerary in order to visit Borgarfjörður eystri , a famous puffin viewing area in the East Fjords. It’s a bit out of the way so would entail cutting out Seydisfjordur, Stuðlagil Canyon, or Dettifoss. This is a helpful article on visiting Borgarfjörður eystri .

Stop 3: Viti and krafla

The next stop is the Krafla area, where you will find the Viti crater . The drive to the crater through Krafla will give you a look into Iceland’s unique way of harnessing the natural energy created by its volcanic landscape. Viti itself is a vibrant blue crater with epic views of the surrounding landscape from the top. This is just a short walk from the parking lot, and you can also go up as far as you like. The crater is usually still frozen until late spring, so keep that in mind.

Stop 4: myvatn

Myvatn is a large volcanic lake in northern Iceland. Many visitors to this region come here to go to the Myvatn Nature Baths , which is an option if you enjoy soaking. The Myvatn Nature Baths are really beautiful but not my #1 favorite geothermal hot spring/bath in Iceland. In fact, I find the water to be not quite hot enough for my liking. In saying that, if you’re a big hot spring fan then I am sure you will enjoy it.

Stop 5: husavik

A small fishing town along the northern coast of Iceland, Husavik was recent thrown into the world’s eye as the hometown of the characters in the Will Ferrell movie “ Eurovision “. Husavik has gorgeous mountain and coastal views, and also one of my favorite geothermal baths, GeoSea . I really enjoyed grabbing some fresh fish for dinner at Fish and Chips , then heading to GeoSea for a sunset soak . I recommend spending the night in or nearby Husavik. If you feel like a sleep-in at this point of the trip, this is the day to do it.

Optional tour: Húsavík Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour

Where to Stay In Husavik

• Suggested hotel: Post-Plaza Guesthouse
• Suggested campground: Húsavík Campground

Day 5: HUSAVIK to GRUNDARFJORDUR

Starting in Husavik , this is a big drive day and probably the least interesting of the trip. The northern part of Iceland after Akureyri is a lot of driving and not a lot of interesting things to see until you reach the Snaefellsnes Peninsula . With that being said, the relaxed day of driving is a good way to wind down after a hectic schedule over the past few days.

Stop 1: godafoss

Translated to “Waterfall of the Gods”, Godafoss is a beautiful waterfall along Route 1 between Husavik and the city of Akureyri. It’s definitely worth jumping out of the car and checking this one out. I recommending walking to both sides of the falls if you have the time.

Stop 2: akureyri

Akureyri is the second-largest city in Iceland and home to the second major airport in the country. Akureyri is quite a pretty city and makes a good lunch spot if you got a late start to the day, or even breakfast if you like to eat a little after waking. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and retail stores in the city square for you to check out.

Attention hot spring lovers : not much further along route 1 is a short detour to Fosslaug hot pool . You could choose to stop here instead of Akureyri or add it to your itinerary if you have plenty of daylight hours.

Stop 3: kirkjufellsfoss

A popular stop on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Kirkjufellsfoss is just a short walk from the road and offers beautiful views across to Kirkjufell mountain. This is a famous photography spot, so consider going at sunset and be sure to bring your camera!

Read next: What’s In My Camera Bag

Stop 4: grundarfjordur

Finish the day in the town of Grundarfjordur , nearby Kirkjkufell. This is a pretty small town, but there are a few accommodation and food options catering to tourists.

Where to Stay In Grundarfjordur

• Suggested hotel: Kirkjufell Guesthouse and Apartments
• Suggested rental: Halsabol Sumarhus by Mt Kirkjufell
• Suggested campground: Campground Grundarfjörður

Day 6: GRUNDARFJORDUR to Reykjavik

You’ll be starting day 6 in Grundarfjordur and ending in Reykjavik . This is a smaller driving day at around 3.5 hours total, with mostly just roadside stops along the way.

Stop 1: Svörtuloft Lighthouse

Make your way around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula , enjoying the sights along the way. Your first stop will be the Svortuloft Lighthouse , a vibrant orange lighthouse at the western edge of the peninsula. There is also a short walking trail to the lighthouse, and it’s a great spot to grab some photos and enjoy the fresh sea air.

Stop 2: Arnarstapi

Arnarstapi  is a nice little stop along the southern part of the peninsula. Here you get great views of the Snaefellsjokull glacier , as stunning coastal scenes. There’s also a couple of spots to grab food or use the restroom in Arnarstapi. In addition, I really love the hike from Arnarstapi to the nearby town of Hellnar . It’s around 6km (3.7 miles) round-trip, mostly flat, and you will see some really beautiful cliffs, rock arches, and more.

Read next: Best Hiking Shoes for Women and Men

Stop 3: Búðakirkja (Budir)

Budir is a famous black church with dramatic mountain views. Mostly known as a photography spot, it’s a cool little detour on your drive back to Reykjavik. You won’t need to spend long here.

Fun fact : Iceland is a tiny country but still has over 350 churches dotted around the island, making it an estimated 1 church for every 950 people!

Stop 4: Ytri Tunga Seal Beach

Ytri Tunga is a beach that is home to a seal colony . Your best chance of seeing them is in the summer months, but even if you don’t see a seal it’s still a beautiful beach to take a stroll. After this stop, you will begin making your way back to Reykjavik.

Stop 5: reykjavik

No trip to Iceland is complete without spending a little time in the largest city in the country. Reykjavik is one of my favorite cities from all of my travels around the world. It’s quaint, modern, and lively all at the same time. There are some amazing food options, unique retail stores, and also plenty of sights to keep you occupied for an evening downtown.

I recommend checking out Hallgrimskirkja , the famous church which sits at the top of the hill overlooking Reykjavik. You can also pay to take the elevator to the top for epic views over the city and Snaefellsnes Peninsula in the distance (beautiful at sunset!). You can check out the unique architecture inside of the church for free.

I also recommend the short drive out to Sky Lagoon to experience their amazing oceanside geothermal lagoon . We went to many hot springs/natural baths during our time in Iceland, and this one was probably our favorite overall. The facilities are clean, the pools are surrounded by really neat rock walls, and their 7-step ritual experience was SO relaxing. Click here for tickets to Sky Lagoon (including transfer) .

As for food , I’ve eaten at quite a few places in town. Some of my favorites include Gandhi Indian , Cafe Babalu , 101 Reykjavik Street Food , Fish Company , Kopar , Hamborgarabulla Tomasar , DEIG Workshop , and BioBorgari . We also really enjoyed the coffee from Sandholt .

Looking for an easy way to get around Reykavik without worrying about parking? Try the Reykjavik Hop-On Hop-Off Bus .

Where to Stay In Reykjavik

• Suggested hotel: Oddsson Hotel
• Budget hotel: Lækur Guesthouse
• Suggested rental: Reykjavík Treasure
• Suggested campground: Reykjavik Campsite

Day 7: Reykjavik to Airport

You’ll be starting day 7 in Reykjavik and flying out of Keflavik airport . Most international flights seem to leave in the afternoon, so it should give you plenty of time to do one more thing before flying out.

Stop 1: blue lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is the most popular of the natural hot springs in Iceland, partly due to its proximity to Reykjavik and the Keflavik airport. It’s made up of 70% ocean water/30% freshwater and is enriched with silica, algae, and minerals. It’s said to heal, nourish, and rejuvenate the mind and body. I really enjoyed trying out their different face masks , and their bar swim-up bar even had my favorite cider. Not a bad way to end a hectic trip around the land of fire and ice! Tip: be sure to put your hair up as the silica makes it extremely knotty! Click here to get your Blue Lagoon tickets

Stop 2: keflavik airport

Well, that’s it. After an epic 7 day Iceland road trip it’s time to go home and get some sleep, something I’m sure you haven’t had nearly enough of by now haha. See below for information on how to add additional days to your trip, if that is of interest.

Visiting Fagradalsfjall Volcano

*** Update as of February 2023 *** Fagradalsjfall volcano is sadly no longer erupting.

Iceland is currently experiencing the continued eruption of the Fagradalsfjall volcano . The eruption first started in March, and no one really knows when it will stop. It could be tomorrow, or it could be decades. To see the volcano, you will first park at the place marked Geldingardalur Volcano Parking on Google Maps. When we visited (June 3, 2021), there was a trail to follow from the parking lot which made the journey relatively straightforward. It took about one hour to the viewpoint of the crater (and an hour back down). The trail is a little rocky and uneven, and does go uphill, so bring some water and take it slow if you’re not the most stable on your feet.

I went back a second time about 10 days after our first visit (June 13, 2021), and there was now a river of lava flowing right over the trail that we had taken to the viewpoint on our first visit. I say this to point out that the trail and best viewpoint of the volcano are continuously changing . Follow the signs and they will take you to where it is currently safe.

As for when to visit the Fagradasfjall volcano on your Iceland road trip, I suggest making the decision after your dinner in Reykjavik on day 6. If you still have some energy, make the drive out and do it that night. If not you can get some rest and go in the morning. And if you do decide to do it on the morning of day 7, I highly recommend getting up super early and arriving trailhead with enough time to get up there before sunrise. The volcano and lava are most visible in the dark hours .

Iceland 7 Road Trip Itinerary Map

Below you will find a Google interactive map of all the spots listed above. The map is broken down into 3 sections: places to see, towns/cities to visit, and places to eat.

How To Extend Your Iceland Road Trip

If you have more than 7 days in Iceland, there are so many more spots you could add to this itinerary to make it even more epic! The Highlands are typically accessible from late spring until late fall and are home to some of the most unique and beautiful parts of the country. Unfortunately, a lot of it is accessible only with high clearance 4×4 vehicles which can be expensive to rent. It’s possible to rent a smaller and cheaper vehicle for the 7 day Iceland road trip itinerary listed above, then rent a 4×4 high clearance vehicle for an additional few days to explore the highlands. I definitely recommend checking out the Landmannalaugar area . There is camping, hiking trails, and some incredible things to see on the drive in.

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist destination, but I left it out of this itinerary due to time constraints and prioritizing other spots. You could do a loop from Reykjavik and do a day trip to the many cool spots out there including Gulfoss, Bruarfoss, Geysir, Þingvellir National Park (aka Thingvellir National Park), and the Kerid Crater. See some more information on a Golden Circle day trip in my 3 Day Iceland road trip itinerary in the next section of this blog post.

Alternatively, if you have an extra 3-5 days you could explore the remote Westfjords .

This is a stunning area of the country, and usually a good escape from other tourists. It’s a long drive to get around, and some of the roads aren’t the best. With that said, if you have the time, this is definitely worth looking into!

Another option is to explore one of the many islands dotted around the coast of Iceland. A few of the popular ones include Vestmannaeyjar, Grimsey, Drangey, and Flatey.

Read next: How To Take a Road Trip on a Budget

Epic 3 Day Iceland Trip Itinerary

A 3 day Iceland road trip is definitely possible, but the itinerary is going to be PACKED. Don’t worry, it’ll be worth it! You’ll see a volcano, waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and much more! Due to this being such a short trip, you will have to do a lot of driving to see as much as possible. Thankfully, Iceland has some of the most scenic roads in the world to keep your eyes busy.

Day 1: South Coast

You’ll be starting day 1 in Reykavik . From there you will pick up your rental car and head out to the town of Vik , then at the end of the day you will head back towards Reykjavik to spend the night. Day 1 involves around 5.5 hours of driving, but there’s plenty of stops in between.

Stop 1: seljalandsfoss

The first stop of this whirlwind Iceland road trip itinerary is Seljalandsfoss . You cannot miss this waterfall as it greets you from the highway. Turn into the parking lot and follow the walking trail around and behind the waterfall. Don’t forget a rain jacket (don’t say I didn’t warn you!)

Stop 2: skogafoss

As if Seljalandsfoss wasn’t awesome enough, Skogafoss is arguably an even more impressive waterfall. Surrounded by mossy cliffs, this waterfall is one of my favorite stops when traveling Iceland’s south coast. You can take a short trail up to the top of the falls, so check that out while you are here.

Stop 3: vik

Move on quickly to the town of Vik where you’ll grab a burger and a drink at Smiðjan Brugghús . The food and drinks here are so good! If you feel like some caffeine after lunch, the nearby Skool Beans coffee bus (you heard that right, it’s actually a bus) has some delicious options to keep you fueled for the next leg of the journey.

Stop 3: reynisfjara

Time to start heading back towards Reykjavik, but you’re not done yet. Head down to Reynisfjara where you will find a beach covered in black pebbles, some really cool sea stack, a cave, and some huge basalt columns that make a great photo opportunity. Keep an eye on the ocean, tourists have been swept away by rogue waves here.

Read next: How To Take Stunning Travel Photos as a Couple

Stop 3: DYRHÓLAEY

Not far up the road from Reynisfjara is Dyrholaey , a peninsula that rises up from the rugged coast to provide epic 360 views of the surrounding coastline, mountains, and glaciers. There’s a cute little lighthouse on top and a really dramatic sea arch that should give you some epic photos.

Stop 3: reykjavik

Finish up your busy day with dinner in Reykjavik, the largest city in Iceland. There are many amazing food options here for dinner , including Gandhi Indian , Cafe Babalu , 101 Reykjavik Street Food , Fish Company , Kopar , and Hamborgarabulla Tomasar .

Day 2: Golden Circle and Volcano

You’ll be starting day 2 in Reykjavik, driving out to the beautiful Golden Circle , then returning to spend the night in Reykjavik. Today is around 4.5 hours total of driving today.

Stop 1: Thingvellir national park

Known as the place where Iceland held its first parliament, 48 chieftains would meet in Thingvellir to discuss matters of great importance, create laws, and conduct court proceedings. Today, tourists visit this beautiful part of the country to hike and take in the scenery.

Thingvellir is also where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are separating over time, creating large fissures. A guide can take you to snorkel in one of these fissures called Silfra , which is known to be one of the clearest diving and snorkeling spots on earth. Book your Silfra snorkeling tour here .

Stop 2: haukadalur

Haukadalur is home to some of Iceland’s most recognizable geysers. Here you can get up close and personal with quite a few geothermal features. My favorite was Strokkur which launches hot water up to 100 feet in the air every 5-10 minutes or so. Some eruptions are much smaller than others, so stay for a couple to catch a good one.

Stop 3: gullfoss

Gulfoss (aka Gold Waterfall) is the furthest stop on the golden circle loop and maybe the most beautiful thing to see in the whole area. Gullfoss falls 100 feet into a canyon, creating so much mist that you’ll be thankful for that rain jacket you packed. When the sun hits right, that mist also lights up with a vibrant rainbow making for some awesome photos.

Optional add-on : When driving in between Gullfoss and your next stop (Kerid Crater) you can opt to stop at Secret Lagoon . It’s much more affordable than many of the other natural baths in Iceland yet entry still includes access to changing rooms, showers, a bar, and a restaurant. Get your Secret Lagoon tickets here .

Stop 4: Kerið Crater

Another of the gems in this part of the country, Kerid Crater Lake is a roadside stop with a short walk to the rim of the crater. What used to be a volcano is now a collapsed crater with vibrant walls of red soil and lush green moss. There’s an incredibly blue lake at the bottom which you can walk down to and check out as well.

Stop 5: fagradalsfjall volcano

Ok, time for the grand finale. Fagradalsfjall Volcano is the last stop of the day, mainly due to the fact that the glow from the lava is most easily seen in the darker hours. It’s pretty simple to see the volcano, but you do have to work a little for it. Park at the place marked Geldingardalur Volcano Parking on GoogleMaps, then follow the trail (and crowds) out to see the volcano.

At the time of our visit, it was about a 1-hour walk to the point where you could see the volcano. As I mentioned previously, the volcano is ever-changing and conditions can be different on a day-to-day basis. Check the live webcam for an idea of how things currently look. You can also check recent posts on social media and see what others are saying about conditions and hiking trails.

Head back to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.

Day 3: Reykjavik and Sky Lagoon

You’ll be starting day 3 in Reykjavik with a delicious breakfast (I recommend Sandholt ), then taking a relaxing soak in one of Iceland’s many incredible geothermal lagoons . Unfortunately, it’s then time to head to the airport for your departure.

Stop 1: sky lagoon

Iceland is famous for its many geothermal hot springs. Having visited most of the popular ones, I can safely say that Sky Lagoon is my favorite. Located close to Reykjavik, Sky Lagoon has beautiful architecture, amazing views of the city from their infinity pool, and a super relaxing 7-step ritual. This is the perfect way to close out a hectic trip, so lay back and enjoy! Click here for tickets to Sky Lagoon (including transfer) .

Your Iceland road trip has come to an end and it’s time to head home to catch up on sleep!

Iceland Road Trip Tips

Here are some helpful tips that will help to make sure your Iceland road trip goes as smoothly as possible:

My favorite way to get internet while in Iceland is getting a local simcard.

It only cost me around $23 USD for 10gb of data with Síminn, and I picked that up at a gas station close to the airport. Service was great in almost all of Iceland, with just a few patchy areas.

Always have snacks on hand .

There isn’t a McDonalds every 10 minutes in Iceland (in fact, there aren’t any at all), and sometimes you may go hours without a proper spot to eat. Having snacks will mean you won’t need to skip stops to keep your belly full.

Hold onto your car doors when you open them!

The standard insurance that comes with rental cars does not include damage to doors. This might not seem like a big deal normally, but when you get there and experience the famous Icelandic wind gusts you will realize what I’m talking about.

Keep a camera on hand.

There are photo opportunities around almost every corner in Iceland. Having your camera closeby will make sure you’re ready to snap some great shots at a moments notice. Find out what’s in my camera bag .

Watch the aurora forecasts .

The last thing you want to do is sleep right through an epic aurora storm while in Iceland! Note that this is not really relevant to those visiting in mid-spring until mid summer where Iceland’s night time doesn’t really get dark enough to see them.

Closing hours on Google Maps are not always the most accurate.

There’s not a whole lot you can do about this, but just be aware thateven though Google says a restaurant opens at 6, it may not be totally accurate.

Best Time of Year To Travel To Iceland

Iceland has something different to offer with each season. For example, if you want to see the northern lights , your best bet is winter. The long nights during the winter months will give you the best chance of seeing them, though it is never guaranteed no matter when you visit. If you want to experience the midnight sun , you’ll want to visit in late spring or early summer around the solstice. If you prioritize fewer crowds and cheaper prices, typically you will want to visit in early spring or autumn.

Overall, I would say most visitors would love visiting in autumn due to slightly fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and the ability to access areas in the highlands that are not accessible during winter and spring. Sleeping may also be easier during this time as the number of dark hours increases after the summer solstice.

Traveling To Iceland During Covid Restrictions

As of early 2023, there are no COVID-19 related travel restrictions to Iceland as per covid.is . “All infection prevention rules for COVID-19 have been lifted at the Icelandic border, regardless of tourists’ vaccination status. However, it varies what rules apply at the borders of other countries.”

In saying that, I highly advise you to check for changes in regulations before planning a trip as I won’t be able to keep this updated day-to-day. You should also be checking your home country’s travel restrictions before planning to exit and re-enter.

This website is a great resource for checking current COVID-19 conditions in Iceland, including vaccination numbers and infection rates.

Where To Rent a Car For Your Iceland Road Trip

Choosing an Iceland rental car will depend on the type of trip you plan to take and whether you would prefer to stay in hotels/guesthouses, tent camp, or stay in a camper van. If you plan to stay in hotels or guest houses then you can opt for a regular rental car (check out LAVA car rental Iceland ) and I would recommend picking it up after you fly into Keflavik Airport.

I personally love to rent a campervan when traveling around Iceland. That way I have more flexibility about where I want to go each day, I can change my plans depending on the weather, and I can easily cook on the go. Click here to book your Iceland 4×4 campervan rental . If you plan to tent camp then you’re probably best to opt for a small rental car as that will be your most budget-friendly option.

How Expensive Is Eating In Iceland?

My Iceland food experience with this has been quite mixed. As someone from the US, I would say that overall you can expect to spend slightly more than typical US food prices. The grocery store is a little more expensive in general, but not shockingly so. Restaurants are often quite similar in price to their US equivalents, especially once you factor in that you don’t tip in Iceland and tax is included in the menu price. In saying that, some restaurants are quite expensive, particularly in touristy areas.

Alcohol is usually more expensive than in the US, so you might want to cut down on drinking when visiting Iceland (or at least factor that into your budget). Overall, if you’re trying to save money then I would recommend cooking your own food and bringing some non-perishable snacks from home (e.g. protein bars, nuts, etc.)

What To Bring To Iceland

Stay tuned for a comprehensive Iceland packing guide ! In the meantime, I would highly recommend bringing the below essentials on your Iceland road trip (yes, even in summer!)

• Waterproof shoes
• Rain jacket
• Insulated jacket (e.g. puffy, parka)
• Beanie +gloves
• Thermal underwear
• Debit/credit card

How To Check The Weather in Iceland

The absolute best website for tracking weather in Iceland is their local weather office found here . On this website, you can find area-specific forecasts, hourly forecasts, etc. I recommend checking this every day as the weather is ever-changing in Iceland and can be quite unpredictable. I’ve found other weather apps are not nearly as accurate, so ignore them when in Iceland and stick to the website linked above.

How To Get Cheap Flights To Iceland

There are numerous ways to score cheap flights to Iceland. I typically keep my eye out for emails from Scott’s Cheap Flights and will also use Google Flights and Skyscanner to search for options. Click here to search for cheap Iceland flights from your city .

Amazing Iceland Guided Tours

There are numerous guided tours in Iceland for those who don’t want to self-drive. Some of these are multi-day tours and others are day trips. Below I have listed some of my most recommended Iceland tours :

Iceland Day Tours out of Reykavik

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour with Kerid Crater
• Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, and Blue Lagoon Guided Tour
• Small-Group Premium Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik
• South of Iceland Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik
• South Coast Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik
• From Reykjavik: Hot Spring, Ice Cave & Snowmobile Tour

Iceland multi-day Tours out of Reykavik

• 4 Day Blue Ice Cave and Northern Lights Tour (October – March)
• 3 Day Golden Circle, South Coast, & Glacier Tour
• 2 Day Snæfellsnes Tour out of Reykavik
• 2 Day South Coast Tour with Glacier Hike & Boat Tour
• 2 Day South Coast Tour with Blue Ice Cave
• 2 Day South Coast Blue Ice Cave & Jokulsarlon Tour (October – March)

Incredible Iceland Experiences

• Skaftafell: 5 Hour Glacier Hike Adventure
• Ice Cave by Katla Volcano Super Jeep from Vik
• Húsafell: Langjökulll Glacier Ice Cave Tour
• Active Volcano Guided Hike out of Reykjavík
• Reykjanes Volcanic Guided Hike & Blue Lagoon Option
• Entry Ticket to Blue Lagoon (including towel and drink)
• Entry Ticket to Sky Lagoon (including transfer)
• Entry Ticket for Secret Lagoon

Travel Insurance For Your Iceland Trip

I highly recommend taking out travel insurance for your Iceland road trip. In fact, I recommend travel insurance for any trip because you just never know! I can personally recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance . It includes travel coverage for things like travel delay, lost checked luggage, emergency response, natural disasters, and personal liability. Plus, their Nomad Insurance includes travel medical coverage for unexpected accidents and medical problems (doctors, hospitals, medical evacuation, covid-19 treatment). Click here to get insured .

PIN for later planning!

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11 comments

Is this route involves going into the F Roads?

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This is amazing! Where is that view of the house with the dramatic mountains near Arnarstapi?

Love this! Where is that yellow coat from?

I’d love the link for the yellow coat, too!! 😍

hi ! did you know where she got if from ? I also want to know

This Iceland Guide is EXACTLY what I was looking for! I just got back from a Viking Cruise to Iceland and I loved Iceland so much I want to go back and drive, taking more time at certain locations we didn’t see on the cruise. I just didn’t know where to start to do such a thing. This guide will be perfect. Thank you!

I LOVE your pictures and tips! My husband and I are going to Iceland next week, and we have been following all your tips and photo locations! 🙂

This guide is PERFECT!!! I have been searching for something like this with the amount of detail and tips and I am SO happy I came across this. My husband and I are traveling in September and I feel so much more confident in our itinerary now that I have this as a guide.

This is AMAZING! Love all the info! How much would a trip like this cost around late summer?

This Iceland travel guide is absolutely amazing Renee. So detailed and so many amazing tips. Your photos and now travel guide have really pushed Iceland to the very top of my bucket list. 🙂

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15 Epic Iceland Road Trip Itineraries For Your Bucket List

July 12, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

If you are looking for epic Iceland road trip itinerary ideas then look no further! We have gone to Iceland countless times and have picked out some of the best driving itineraries for Iceland. There is so much to do and see in Iceland, so we’ve made this list to help you pick the best way for you to enjoy your next trip to Iceland.

From driving the entire Ring Road or just seeing smaller chunks of the country, there is guaranteed to be an Iceland road trip that is perfect for you. As you plan your trip, keep in mind a few things, like where to stay in Iceland . As you travel around the country you’ll want to know where you can plan to stay. Much of Iceland is uninhabited, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.

You’ll especially want to avoid any rental car mistakes since you’ll be spending your entire trip on the road. Driving in Iceland is actually not as scary as you may think, but you’ll want to be prepared when you are planing an Iceland road trip. It’s one of the best ways to see the stunning beauty of the country without having to rely on bus tours or anything like that. So keep all of that in mind as you look at these 15 epic Iceland road trip itineraries for your bucket list!

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Iceland’s Ring Road: The Ultimate Iceland Road Trip

• The Blue Lagoon
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Svartifoss Waterfall
• Studlagil Canyon
• The Krafla Volcanic Region
• Kirkjufell Mountain

If you want to take the Ultimate Iceland Road Trip, then you’ll want to travel around Ring Road. There are at least 60 amazing stops along Ring Road , but you can pick and choose which ones you want to stop at. We suggest the famous Blue Lagoon before heading to the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. From there, you’ll see several beautiful sights on the road like the Svartifoss Waterfall and Studlagil Canyon.

In the Krafla Volcanic Region, you’ll be able to hike around the rim of a massive crater. Inside the crater, there is a beautiful blue lake and a rocky landscape. Towards the end of your Iceland road trip, you’ll see some more beautiful sights and can even take some optional detours to places like the Westfjords. Admire the gorgeous landscape around Kirkjufell Mountain before heading to your final stop. End your Iceland road trip in the capital city of Reykjavik before heading home.

Iceland South Coast Road Trip

• Seljalandsfoss
• Reykjadalur Hot Springs

When you are exploring Iceland’s South Coast there are so many beautiful stops you can make. There are stunning massive waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. You can hike near them and get pretty close to the rushing water. There are views of rivers, valleys, and mountains in the distinct Iceland landscape along the South Coast.

Make sure you spend some time at the Reykjadalur Hot Springs. Take a dip in the relaxing pools while you admire the view. It is actually more like a hot river, and it has become a popular area for people to stop and enjoy the naturally warm water. You’ll also get to see some beautiful coastal views on your Iceland road trip like the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

3 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

• Reykjavik And The Golden Circle
• Seljavallalaug Hot Spring
• Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

If you only have three days to spend in Iceland , you are going to want an itinerary in Iceland that hits the highlights. Your first full day will be spent in Reykjavik and exploring The Golden Circle. The Golden Circle is one of the most popular areas in Iceland to visit. You’ll see sites like the Geysir Hot Spring Area, Brúarfoss Waterfall, and the Gullfoss Waterfall. On your second day, relax in the Seljavallalaug Hot Spring.

You can admire beautiful views while you soak in the warm waters. While you drive you’ll also see more massive waterfalls and even an airplane wreck. Spend the night in the town of Vik. You can stock up on some snacks, fill up the tank, and enjoy a night in small-town Iceland. You’ll end your road trip in Iceland around Vik, where you can see sites like the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon and black sand beaches.

4 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

• Solheimasandur Plane Wreck
• Vestrahorn Mountain

With four days in Iceland , you can see a bit more of the beautiful country. Spend a day around Reykjavic and soak in the Reykjadalur Hot Springs. Explore downtown Reykjavic, sample some local foods, or stop into one of the unique museums. On day two you’ll explore Iceland’s South Coast while you hike to waterfalls, soak in more hot springs, and visit an ancient replica farm. Spend some time in the hidden oasis of Gjain and a valley of lava rock.

One of the most popular unique attractions in Iceland is the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck. Spend some time on your third day to drive out to the famous wreckage. You’ll also have time to stroll on black sand beaches and climb basalt columns. On the last day of your itinerary for Iceland take some time to see the majestic Vestrahorn Mountain and the nearby canyons and hot springs before arriving back in Reykjavic.

5 Day Icleand Road Trip Itinerary

• Haifoss Waterfall
• Nauthusagil Canyon
• Hjorleifshofdi Promontory
• Þakgil Canyon

During your five days in Iceland , you’ll spend a lot of time on the road making stops along the way. But don’t be fooled, most of the many stops are only within a few minutes of each other. Most of your days will be spent enjoying the beautiful and changing Iceland landscape. Admire the Haifoss Waterfall and many others on your first day of driving. On day two you’ll get to hike around some amazing mountain landscapes like the Nauthusagil Canyon.

Your third day will be spent at iconic natural formations like the Hjorleifshofdi Promontory and Iceland’s national parks. For your fourth day, spend some time hiking through the massively impressive and beautiful Þakgil Canyon. You’ll also soak in hot tubs, admire the Lomagnupur Mountain, and spend the night in Vik. On your last day, you can explore the capital city of Reykjavic, or go back to any of the previous spots you might have missed or want to spend more time at.

Iceland’s Golden Circle Road Trip

• Thingvellir National Park
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Strokkur Geyser
• Kerid Crater

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular driving routes in Iceland. You can easily drive the entire route in a day, but if you want to take your time, consider doing it in a couple of days. As you drive you’ll see some of the spots that are often considered the ‘must see’ parts of Iceland. Spend a few hours exploring Thingvellir National Park and hiking around Gullfoss waterfall.

On your itinerary, you’ll also have time to see the famous Strokkur Geyser. There are a few stops where you can hike, admire waterfalls, or soak in hot springs. Towards the end of your driving itinerary in Iceland, you’ll have time to stop at Kerid Crater. You can walk around the rim, hike down to the lake that fills the crater, and admire the colorful rock and sediment inside the crater.

Best Of Iceland Waterfalls Road Trip

• Glymur Waterfall
• Mulagljufur Canyon
• Selfoss Waterfall

For this Best of Iceland Waterfalls Road Trip, you’ll start at the Glymur Waterfall. Glymur Waterfall is just outside of Reykjavik, which makes it the perfect first stop on your Iceland waterfalls road trip. From there you’ll continue along the iconic Golden Circle area of Iceland to the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall. Gullfoss is one of the most recognizable Iceland waterfalls as it is a popular stop for people visiting the country.

As you continue on your road trip in Iceland you’ll want to stop at Mulaglijufur Canyon where you can see and hike to several waterfalls all at one spot. Your waterfalls of Iceland itinerary also includes stops at the magnificent Hengifoss and Selfoss Waterfall. You can easily spend a few days traveling along Southern Iceland and see some of the most amazing waterfalls.

North Iceland Road Trip

• Krafla Volcanic Region
• The Myvatn Nature Baths
• Aldeyjarfoss

The North Iceland Road Trip is perfect if you are looking for a little bit more of a secluded experience. Most people who travel to Iceland tend to stick to Southern Iceland and the many sites there. But there are just as many beautiful things to see in Northern Iceland. Admire the stunning Dettifoss Waterfall before seeing the whale watching capital of Europe, the small town of Husavik. From there be amazed by the Krafla Volcanic Region. There you’ll be able to see craters, lakes, and more unique landscapes.

Stop for a dip in the Myvatn Nature Baths to experience a lagoon-style outdoor bath. The incredible milky blue water will be the perfect way to rest and relax after hiking waterfalls and the volcanic region. One of your last stops is the stunning Aldeyarfoss waterfall and hot spring. In the summer months, you can drive right up to the area, but in the winter you’ll need to hike. But the stunning view makes it worth it. End your trip in the largest city in the North, Akureyri.

Westfjords Road Trip

• Latrabjarg Cliffs
• Breiðavík Golden Beach
• Rauðasandur Red Sand Beach
• Holmavik Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft

The Westfjords is a really fun and interesting part of Iceland. There are a few things you’ll need to know before visiting Iceland’s Westfjords . Much of it can be very difficult to reach during Iceland’s winter months, so this is best explored when there is a smaller chance of icy weather. If you want to see some super cute puffins, start your trip at the Latrabjarg Cliffs. From there, head to some of the amazing and unique beaches in the Westfjords. The Breiðavík Golden Beach and the Rauðasandur Red Sand Beach are both known for their unique sand colors and beautiful views.

One of the most popular things to see in the Westfjords is Dynjandi, a massive lacy and cascading waterfall. It is very wide and absolutely stunning in person. You don’t want to miss it. End your trip with a little bit of Icelandic culture. At the Holmavik Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft, you’ll learn about a unique part of Iceland’s cultural history. It’s a super unique stop on this Iceland road trip itinerary.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula Road Trip

• The Arnarstapi To Hellnar Cliff Walk
• The Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
• Londrangar Basalt Cliffs
• Landbrotalaug Hot Springs

If you are looking for a shorter road trip in Iceland, consider the Snaefellsnes Peninsula Road Trip. There are several stops in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula , but it is a small part of Iceland, so it won’t take you too long to hit all of the best ones. Your first stop is Kirkjufell Mountain, which is Iceland’s most famous mountain. You will probably recognize it from several travel magazines and popular Iceland Instagram posts. From there, experience the Arnarstapi to Hellnar Cliff Walk.

Experience amazing views while hiking at the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge. It’s not too far from the cliff walk and is actually one of the lesser-known attractions on the peninsula. Head to the coast before making your way to the end of your road trip in Iceland to see the stunning Londrangar Basalt Cliffs. From there, you’ll end your trip by taking some time to rest and relax after hiking the area at the Landbrotalaug Hot Springs. It can be tricky to find, and that means it is not a huge tourist area. Often times you’ll find you are the only ones who have made the trip to discover the geothermal pool on the abandoned farm.

East Fjords Road Trip Itinerary

• Laekjavik Coast
• Djupavogskorin Geothermal Pool
• Streitisviti Lighthouse

The East Fjords Road Trip will take you along a portion of Iceland’s Southeastern Coast and a little bit inland. It is a beautiful part of the country and much of it is along the Ring Road . Start by admiring the unusual rock formations along the Laekjavik Coast. It is a black sand beach with rectangular rock formations jutting out from the ocean along the shore.

Continue your driving itinerary for Iceland’s East Fjords with a stop at the Streitisviti Lighthouse. It is a uniquely designed lighthouse on the coast built-in 1922. Next head up the coast to the Gufufoss waterfall. Spend some time hiking the area and admire the beautiful plunging waterfall. On your way back home, head a little inland to the Hengifoss waterfall. It is the 3rd highest waterfall in Iceland and well worth a little bit of a detour as you end your East Fjords road trip in Iceland.

Icelandic Highlands Road Trip

• Landmannalaugar
• Vatnajökull Glacier and National Park
• Jökulsárlón

The Icelandic Highlands is a plateau in Southern Iceland that is sparsely inhabited. Your Icelandic Highlands Road Trip will give you the opportunity to see some of the most stunning and uninhabited parts of the country. In Thorsmork take some time to camp and hike in the valley. It is a beautiful nature reserve where you can see all kinds of animals in Iceland . It can be difficult to get to though, so consider taking a guided tour of Thorsmork . Continue through the Icelandic Highlands and make a stop at the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, one of the best National Parks in Iceland .

One of the most popular things to see there is Landmannalaugar which is the edge of the Laugahraun lava field. You’ll be able to experience some stunning views that were created by a volcanic eruption in the 1400s. Your next stop is another National Park, Vatnajökull. The entire park is centered around the massive Vatnajökull glacier which is an absolute must-see. End your tour of the beautiful highlands at Jökulsárlón, the glacial lake just on the edge of Vatnajökull National Park.

Small Towns In Iceland Road Trip

• Seyðisfjörður
• Stykkishólmur

On the Small Towns in Iceland Road Trip, you’ll drive around almost the entire country stopping at so many cute small towns along the way. In Seyðisfjörður you’ll get a taste of what it is like to live in Iceland’s Eastern Fjords. It is an adorable town off the Ring Road and has the Fjarðarheiði Mountain Pass which connects the plateau it’s on to the rest of Iceland. From there head to the charming village of Reykjahlíð which has a population of just over 220. It is on the shores of Lake Mývatn which is a beautiful place to stop.

Continue around Iceland’s Northern coast and towards the Snæfellsnes peninsula where you’ll find the beautiful town of Stykkishólmur. It is the main town on the peninsula and you’ll find a few tourist attractions there. As you make your way around Iceland, stop in Heimaey, which is actually an island just off of Iceland’s southern coast. You’ll need to take either the ferry or fly to get there, but it is worth the trip. End your road trip in Iceland in the town of Höfn. There you’ll be able to see massive glaciers while you stroll through town.

Icelandic Hot Springs Road Trip

• Blue Lagoon
• Reykjadalur Hot Spring
• Secret Lagoon
• Hrunalaug Hot Spring
• Seljavallalaug Hot Springs

One of the things Iceland is most known for is its Hot Spring culture. It is one of the most popular things to do in Iceland, so why not take an Icelandic Hot Springs Road Trip. Start at the iconic Blue Lagoon just outside of Reykjavik. This one is pretty touristy, but it is one of the most well-known. Next, you’ll want to stop at Sky Lagoon and then the Reykjadalur Hot Spring. Both are still pretty close to Reykjavic, but they aren’t as full of tourists as the Blue Lagoon.

As you head farther from Reykjavic, make stops at the Secret Lagoon and then the Hrunalaug Hot Springs. Hrunalaug is tucked away in the mountains, so it is much quieter and you get some absolutely stunning views. Head father down Iceland’s southern coast to Seljavallalaug Hot Springs. It is incredibly dreamy you take an easy hike to get there, which makes it more secluded within the mountains.

It is Iceland’s oldest man-made swimming pool, but keep in mind it is not nearly as hot as you might expect from an Iceland hot spring. If you have the time, drive out to the Djupavogskorin Geothermal Pool to finish your Iceland road trip of the best hot springs.

Hidden Gems In Iceland Road Trip

• Valahnukamol
• Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Viking Village Film Set
• Studlagil Basalt Canyon

There are so many hidden gems in Iceland that they deserve their own road trip. In Valahnukamol you’ll discover a hidden area of beach where you’ll find otherworldly rocks jutting out from the ocean as waves crash against them. It isn’t a well-known area, which is why it’s a hidden gem, and that also means it’s not full of tourists. At the Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon, you’ll find a beautiful two square mile lagoon, with very few tourists. It is just off the Ring Road, but not very crowded at all.

One of the more unique things to see in Iceland is the Viking Village Film Set. It was built in 2010 and was meant to resemble an old Viking village for a movie that was being filmed in the area. It is just off of a gravel road outside of Hofn and not many people know about it. It’s a cool way to experience a taste of early life in Iceland. End your trip at the stunning hidden gem that is the Studlagil Basalt Canyon. The canyon is made of towering basalt rock columns with a beautiful blue glacial river flowing through it. It is an absolute must-see, and fairly free of tourists.

If you are thinking of taking an Iceland road trip, we are sure that one of these amazing adventures is going to be the perfect Iceland road trip itinerary for you. Whether it’s your first time visiting Iceland or your fifth time, each of these road trip itineraries offers unique experiences, stunning views, and more.

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Iceland presents travelers with an extraordinary mosaic of natural wonders and cultural pearls. 

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital, embodies a fusion of modernity and tradition, showcasing a delightful blend of contemporary art amidst a charming urban atmosphere. 

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The famed Golden Circle, a popular tourist route in southern Iceland that covers about 1868 miles, offers a journey through history. The thundering cascades of the Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls are captivating, and the Jökulsárlón Glacier is mesmerizing with its unique beauty adorned with glittering icebergs against a backdrop of black sands. Landmannalaugar is a geothermal paradise, while the legendary Goðafoss Waterfall captivates with its grandeur. In the Snæfellsjökull National Park, diverse landscapes unfold, including the glacier-capped volcanic peak. Hraunfossar Waterfalls showcase nature's artistry, with water emerging from beneath lava fields.

Yet, these are merely glimpses of Iceland's vast array of attractions for travelers. Here are some highlighted recommendations for an extensive circular route of this remarkable island, spanning approximately 1056 miles. The proposed itinerary follows Ring Road No. 1, roughly 808 miles in length, beginning and ending in the capital, Reykjavik.

Reykjavik is a dynamic blend of modernity and natural wonders. This bustling city stands out with its impressive architecture, from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church to the stunning glass panels of the concert hall. Museums, galleries, and a variety of festivals celebrate Iceland's heritage and contemporary art. Its proximity to natural wonders along Route 1, the Golden Circle, and the Blue Lagoon make it an ideal hub for island exploration.

Here are several recommended sites to visit in the city:

Hallgrímskirkja Church is a prominent architectural landmark soaring above the city skyline. Its expressionist, unconventional design resembles basalt formations, and there are breathtaking panoramic views from its height of approximately 230 feet.

Harpa Concert Hall, a modern architectural gem along the city's waterfront, boasts a stunning glass facade reflecting Iceland's natural elements, reminiscent of the country's basalt formations and shifting lights. The venue hosts concerts, conferences, and exhibitions.

Perlan, meaning "The Pearl," is a unique architectural landmark located atop Öskjuhlíð Hill. It houses a nature museum with a glass dome and a revolving restaurant providing panoramic views of the city. The museum offers visitors an immersive experience, including a man-made ice cave showcasing Iceland's glaciers.

The National Museum of Iceland presents the country's rich history and heritage through exhibitions and artifacts. The museum traces Iceland's history from its earliest settlements to the present day with diverse exhibits that showcases remnants from the Viking era, medieval manuscripts, traditional costumes, and archaeological finds.

The Reykjavik Art Museum displays the diverse art of Iceland, including contemporary works. With its three separate venues - the Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn - the museum offers a wide-ranging exploration of Icelandic and international art. Hafnarhús presents experimental contemporary art, Kjarvalsstaðir focuses on modern Icelandic art with a special emphasis on the works of the beloved Icelandic artist Jóhannes Kjarval, while Ásmundarsafn Museum highlights the sculptures of the remarkable Icelandic artist Ásmundur Sveinsson.

Laugavegur Street is situated in the vibrant heart of Reykjavik. It is a bustling street filled with shops, cafes, and a lively atmosphere. Laugavegur is also known as the main shopping and restaurant district of the city, featuring boutiques, designer stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants.

Here are several recommended 1- to 2-day excursions from Reykjavik to the Golden Circle:

Þingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unveils stunning geological formations formed by the shifting of tectonic plates between America and Eurasia. Visitors stand amidst continents, marveling at the natural spectacle of dramatic cliffs, deep channels, and Iceland's largest lake. Its botanical diversity boasts resilient flora like mosses, lichens, and birch forests, adapted to volcanic landscapes. Beyond its geological wonders, Þingvellir holds a significant place in Iceland's history as the ancient venue for the world's first parliament, set against magical rock formations.

The Geysir Geothermal Area, a center of volcanic and geothermal activity, is renowned for its erupting geysers. Here you'll encounter Strokkur, which shoots boiling water up to 98 feet high every few minutes, thrilling onlookers with its powerful displays. The area is abundant with hot springs bubbling from the earth, steaming mud pots, and mineral-rich pools.

The Gullfoss Waterfall , a two-tiered waterfall carved into the Hvítá River canyon, plunges dramatically into a deep abyss, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The roaring waters cascade into the rocky gorge, captivating visitors with their force and grandeur.

Highlights Along the Circular Route 1, Beginning and Ending in Reykjavik

Hella, located in southern Iceland, offers a glimpse into the country's rural charm and natural beauty. Surrounded by diverse landscapes, from volcanic plains to fertile farmland, its location on the riverbanks provides visitors the opportunity to enjoy a range of activities, including fishing and rafting.

The Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, located on Iceland's southern coast, invites visitors to stroll behind the veil of cascading water, providing a mesmerizing experience shielded from the mist. Plummeting from a height of 197 feet, the waterfall creates a breathtaking curtain of water. The surrounding cliffs are adorned with lush green moss, sturdy grasses, and wildflowers.

Drangurinn í Drangshlíð is a prominent geological formation standing amidst rugged landscapes. This unique rock, resembling a giant mushroom, is composed of basalt formations. Serving as a testament to Iceland's volcanic origins and the gradual cooling of ancient lava flows, this distinctive rock structure is surrounded by mosses, hardy grasses, and sparse vegetation, adorning the terrain and creating a picturesque contrast against the dark basalt rocks.

Skógafoss Waterfall is located approximately 18 miles west of Drangurinn í Drangshlíð. This majestic waterfall drops from a height of about 196 feet and spans over 82 feet, creating impressive cascades that often reflect colorful rainbows in the mist.

The Icelandic Lava Show, located in the village of Vik í Mýrdal , is just a short stroll from Vik's iconic black sand beaches. This extraordinary attraction provides visitors with an immersive experience, showcasing genuine lava from nearby eruptions. Guests can observe the fascinating interaction between lava and water, gaining insights into Iceland's volcanic and geological past.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon , located about 50 miles east of Vik í Mýrdal, showcases the forces of nature that have shaped Iceland's landscapes for thousands of years. Carved by the river, this stunning canyon features towering cliffs reaching heights of up to 328 feet.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve, located about 47 miles east of Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, is part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park . Skaftafell is a captivating blend of diverse landscapes, including glaciers, lush forests, and breathtaking panoramas. The reserve features winding hiking trails through picturesque valleys, leading to stunning lookout points overlooking glaciers such as Svínafellsjökull. Skaftafell Nature Reserve serves as a starting point for organized tours to the Vatnajökull Glacier.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon , a stunning natural wonder located approximately 34 miles east of Skaftafell Nature Reserve, unveils a breathtaking panorama of drifting icebergs originating from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier. The iconic lagoon reflects the various hues of the glacier in its tranquil blue waters. Visitors can stroll along the lagoon's shores, observe seals basking on the icebergs, or join a guided boat tour amidst the floating ice formations.

Eskifjörður, situated in Iceland's eastern fjord region, lies about 94 miles southwest of Goðafoss Waterfall. This charming fjord town is nestled amidst stunning landscapes, surrounded by towering mountains and overlooking the serene fjord waters. With its rich maritime history, Eskifjörður offers visitors a glimpse into Iceland's fishing heritage through its museums and historic sites. The town's picturesque harbor, adorned with colorful boats, reflects Iceland's strong connection to the power of the sea.

Borgarfjörður Eystri, a charming fishing village situated about 155 miles northeast of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, is renowned for its scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance. It holds the distinction of being the birthplace of the celebrated Icelandic artist Jóhannes Kjarval. During the puffin breeding season, typically from May to August, visitors have the opportunity to wander amidst a bustling puffin colony as these fascinating birds go about their daily routines. The distinctive appearance of puffins, with their colorful plumage, attracts bird enthusiasts from across the globe. Numerous hiking trails and lookout points offer superb opportunities for observation and exploration.

Dettifoss Waterfall, known as Europe's most powerful waterfall, is situated approximately 106 miles northwest of Borgarfjörður Eystri. Located in Vatnajökull National Park, it is a breathtaking spectacle showcasing the power of nature. The waterfall carves its way through the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, plunging from a height of about 148 feet and spanning over 328 feet wide, creating a powerful torrent of glacial water. The surrounding cliffs and rocky terrain provide a picturesque backdrop to the roaring waterfall.

Lake Mývatn , located about 87 miles west of Dettifoss Waterfall, is renowned for its stunning beauty and unique geological features. It was created by a volcanic eruption over 2,000 years ago, resulting in its formation as a volcanic lake. The surrounding area boasts diverse landscapes, including lava formations and bubbling mud flats. The lake itself serves as a paradise for birds and wildlife, hosting a wide variety of bird species, especially in summer. Nearby attractions such as the Dimmuborgir lava formations offer well-defined hiking trails leading through the peculiar lava formations. The geothermal area of Hverir, with its boiling mud pools and steaming fumaroles, provides visitors with a fascinating insight into Iceland's volcanic activity.

Húsavík , situated on Iceland's northern coast, lies about 40 miles southwest of Lake Mývatn. Known as the "Whale Watching Capital," Húsavík offers visitors the opportunity to embark on thrilling whale watching excursions in the North Atlantic Ocean. The town's picturesque harbor and maritime heritage add to its charm, providing visitors with a glimpse into Iceland's seafaring culture. The beautiful wooden church, Húsavíkurkirkja, was built in 1907.

Goðafoss Waterfall, also known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," is located approximately 80 miles southwest of Húsavík. This waterfall spans about 98 feet in width and plunges from a height of around 40 feet. The waterfall holds historical importance, linked to Iceland's adoption of Christianity in 1000 AD, when its people embraced the faith and discarded pagan idols into the waters of the waterfall. Encircled by grassy terrain, the horseshoe-shaped waterfall is easily reachable via a brief stroll from the main road.

Akureyri, often dubbed the "Capital of the North," sits gracefully on the breathtaking Eyjafjörður fjord, approximately 236 miles from Reykjavik. This bustling city harmonizes urban comfort with natural splendor. Explore its enchanting botanical gardens, wander through its cultural center filled with museums and galleries, and enjoy panoramic views from nearby hills. Serving as a gateway to seasonal adventures like skiing in winter and hiking or whale watching in summer, Akureyri's cozy cafes, and restaurants offer a taste of local delights and a warm ambiance for travelers looking to discover the beauty of northern Iceland.

Upon returning to Reykjavik, indulge in a day of pampering and relaxation at the renowned Blue Lagoon in Grindavik , a world-famous geothermal spa renowned for its striking blue waters. Situated approximately 31 miles southwest of Reykjavik, this haven boasts mineral-rich waters heated to temperatures of 98-104 degrees Fahrenheit. Its mineral composition, featuring silica and algae, is believed to revitalize the skin. With amenities like steam rooms, saunas, and in-water massages amidst the stunning volcanic scenery, the spa promises a rejuvenating retreat amidst Iceland's natural splendor.

Local Cuisine:

Plokkfiskur: A dish made with fish (usually cod) and potatoes, often seasoned with onions and herbs.

Hangikjöt: Smoked lamb, traditionally served cold, thinly sliced, and typically enjoyed during the Christmas season.

Skyr: A dairy product similar to yogurt but with a thicker texture and higher protein content. Often served with berries or as an ingredient in various dishes.

Svið: Boiled sheep's head, considered a delicacy, usually served with mashed potatoes and sometimes pickled or smoked.

Kleinur: Traditional pastries, deep-fried in oil and often flavored with cardamom, giving them a unique taste.

Rúgbrauð: Dense and dark rye bread, traditionally baked in the ground using geothermal heat, resulting in a sweet and rich flavor.

Harðfiskur: Dried fish, usually cod, served as snacks often with butter.

Hákarl: Fermented shark, known for its pungent odor, typically eaten with a shot of traditional Icelandic schnapps.

Regions in Iceland

Attractions in iceland, popular itineraries in iceland.

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STEP 1: Select Itinerary Template

• We recommend you start with one of our templates.

STEP 2: Make It Your Own

• Once you have selected a template you want to use as your base, you can start editing.

STEP 3: Find Destinations and Activities

• Use our search to add any destination and book recommended activities.

The Trip Planner In The Easy Guide Tablet

Log in and select the trip you created, or make a new trip right there on the tablet. Once you get your camper, log into the Easy Guide tablet. There you will get full turn-by-turn navigation, with options to add detours and edit your journey on the road. Book additional tours, browse tailored information on nearby points of interest (Icelandic Map Creators), communicate directly with CampEasy, receive live weather and road warnings from ICE-SAR based on your location, and much, much more.

Login to the Tablet

When picking up your camper, enter your Trip ID into the tablet. There you will find your saved planned trips.

Navigate and Enjoy

In the Easy Guide tablet, you will find turn-by-turn navigation to take you to your custom-created trip destinations. 

Let us Assist

On your tablet, you will find a chat option with CampEasy agents, loads of information, and more fun stuff!

Why we recommend to use the Trip Planner?

When we think of traveling, it usually means that it is necessary to research a particular country or a place. Think of Trip Planner as help that will guide you through the main journey planning stages. Simply use Trip Planner for…

… saving time planning your itinerary!

Forget the way you used to plan your trips in the past!

Before the trip, use our online Trip Planner. Check existing trip templates that will help you decide your needs for the road trip in Iceland. After finding what suits you the most, try editing it to make the road trip more personal – check the nearby cities, attractions and activities!

After arriving in Iceland, you will find the Trip Planner feature in the Easy Guide tablet. You will not only find your pre-planned trip but also will be able to change the itinerary or add detours. It will work the same as an online planner, but you will find way more features to upgrade your trip on the tablet – you can sort activities and attractions by categories, see them close to your location, and much more!

… having all the travel information in one place!

Trip planning can be stressful. Avoid uncomfortable situations where your gathered info gets lost in your devices or when you simply cannot reckon with saved attractions on different platforms. With Trip Planner, you can add as many places as you want and always find them in your free CampEasy account.

Not to mention, it could be uncomfortable to use your phone or other devices for navigation. Leave your electronics for capturing the memories or other entertainment – our Easy Guide perfectly syncs with Trip Planner, meaning that your trip will be operated comfortably through our tablet.

… not missing less known but incredible stops!

While traveling, one part of us always wants to see signature attractions or popular sightseeing places in the destination country. But we all secretly wish to find places that are less known or are favorite ones among locals. Thanks to Icelandic Map Creators, all attractions and sightseeing were collected, and their locations are in the Trip Planner.

Simply look for nearby points of interest, read about them, and do not forget to be spontaneous! You will be surprised how many places there are that travelers pass and miss every day.

… booking optimal tours and activities for your comfort!

CampEasy expert team is constantly gathering a list of best, optimal, and trust-proof tours by operators from all around the country. Today we have more than 400 tours and activities, and the number is still growing. Discover activities in our online Trip Planner or on the road on the signature Easy Guide tablet.

Booking tours with us has never been easier – you can browse and book activities within our interface. Are you having trouble choosing from such an extensive list? Our team has collected the TOP 50 activities that are must to do while traveling in Iceland!