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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Seljalandsfoss

Blue Lagoon

Snæfellsnes

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Scenic 4-Day Northern Lights Tour of Vatnajokull Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon & the South Coast

10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes, stunning 2 day tour to jokulsarlon with waterfalls, glacier hiking & a black sand beach, best 1-week summer self-drive tour of the ring road of iceland & golden circle.

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Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Visit a Live Volcano

Find the Northern Lights

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

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

Best Restaurants in Reykjavik

Top Reykjavik Bars

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.

Enjoy Seven Days in Iceland

Iceland's Golden Circle: The Complete Guide

The Best Day Trips From Reykjavik

Best Blue Lagoon Tours in Iceland

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

The Best Time to Visit Iceland

Scandinavia and the Nordic Region: Planning Your Trip

My Experiences Traveling Alone As a Black Woman

How to Save Money in Iceland

Complete Guide to Iceland's Ring Road

The Top 10 Places to Visit in Iceland

The 9 Best Glaciers to See in Iceland

The 20 Best Hot Springs Destinations in the World

The Top 10 Hot Springs to Visit in Iceland

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ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

How to plan an unforgettable trip to Iceland (time, itinerary, transport…)

Last updated on October 6, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Let’s start planning your trip to Iceland. All I want is for you to have an unforgettable experience! With all the incredible landscapes to discover in Iceland, some planning is really necessary to make the most of your time. So here is my guide to help answer all your planning questions such as where to go, how to get around, where to say, what to do….

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

Navigate back to the complete  Iceland Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Iceland – The Guide

As you will see, I have written many articles in my travel guide to help you plan an UNFORGETTABLE trip to Iceland. This post below is a summary to help you find the answers to all of your questions and show the related articles that can help you plan everything.

There are many options to discover the land of Fire and Ice, and I want to help you decide the best approach for you.

So let’s get started with the 8 essential questions…

Where? Best destinations in Iceland

Let’s start by a general overview of the main regions of Iceland and the things you can expect to see in each of them. Note that all the tourist board websites in Iceland are organized by such regions.

Here is a quick map of Iceland with its regions:

And below is a quick overview of all the region to see what type of scenery your prefer:

SOUTH ICELAND

It has some the country’s most visited tourist attractions with waterfalls, glaciers, icebergs and the drive along this South Coast is a constant amazement

You can see the top things to do in the region here

SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA

Also known as the ‘small Iceland’; its geological diversity will give you taste of what there is to see in Iceland: volcano, glacier, waterfall, fjords…

SOUTH WEST ICELAND

The Iceland Tourist board includes 2 other regions: Reykjavik and the Reykjanes peninsula. Personally I will gather them with other attractions into a region ‘Around Reykjavik’ with geothermal wonders, lighthouses, geysers and impressive waterfalls

NORTH ICELAND

Valleys, fjords, geothermal area, ‘post-apocalyptic’ lava fields… contrasts, colors and a deep connection with Earth. This was my favorite region

WEST FJORDS

Stunning fjords and lagoons, wildlife… This is a very isolated region with relatively unspoiled wilderness

EAST FJORDS

Forest, lush farmlands, small fjords and islands…

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS

Wild mountains and glacier which can be explored during summer with 4WD or hiking

And now that you know where you would like to go, let’s start planning your trip to Iceland !!!

When? Best time to visit Iceland

Iceland is beautiful and magical all year around and the best time to visit really depends on you and what you want to see.

FULL ARTICLE  ==> I have written a detailed guide on the Best time to visit Iceland including conditions and things to see.

Here is a very short summary:

June-August

• Long daylight hours, green scenery, lupine fields (June-July)
• BUT Peak season: higher prices, more tourists; no aurora borealis

May & September-beginning October

• Still enough daylight hours, Chances at aurora borealis, autumn colors, road still in good conditions
• BUT Less accommodations are opened, colder weather
• Not many tourists, winter wonders such as the blue caves, stunning landscapes with snow, less tourists, interesting low light for photography, good prices
• BUT Difficult driving conditions, many roads closed, not many hours of light
• It is a great time to see the Northern lights in Iceland
• Find out your options on my article about visiting Iceland in Winter and Iceland Winter Tours
• Have a look this great post by Dreaming and Wandering about 10 reasons you should visit Iceland in Winter

How long should you plan a trip to Iceland ?

Before you can start planning a trip to Iceland, you first have to decide how long to stay (if you have the luxury to be flexible with your time).

Here are some facts to help you:

• Route 1 a.k.a. the Ring Road (Icelandic: Þjóðvegur 1 or Hringvegur) runs around the island (see on the map above). The total length of the road is 1,332 kilometers ( 828 miles ).
• Speed limit on the best paved roads is 90 km/hour but unpaved sections are at 80km 
• You will want to stop every 5 minutes to look at the changing scenery or take a photo – this is inevitable

Therefore, I would not recommend attempting the all around Ring Road in 7 days, you would have to rush all the time. But if you are ok with getting just a snapshot of each region then go for it (one of my favorite blogger Liz from Young Adventuress did it with her Iceland challenge and really loved it).

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

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

Transportation – How to travel around Iceland?

When you are planning a trip to Iceland, you can consider the following options to get around the island:

OPTION 1  – Self-Drive Iceland – own planning

Considering the distance and the limits of bus travel, especially outside the summer months, doing and Iceland Road Trip is the number one solution. And I totally agree. Because me, the person who hates driving, I ended up enjoying my self-drive experience in Iceland!!! The lack of traffic and the amazing scenery everywhere made my trip very easy. It was a miracle according to my mother 🙂

FULL ARTICLE  ==> Anyway I have gathered for you all I learnt about driving on a road trip in Iceland and a step-by-step guide to renting a car in Iceland

And I recommend the rental car company I used: Route 1 car rental . Their service was excellent, and the car was is perfect condition. 

IF THIS IS YOUR CHOICE, you can jump to the next section about planning your Iceland itinerary.

OPTION 2  – Self-Drive Iceland – Iceland Trip Package

If you don’t want to plan everything yourself but are happy to drive around based on indication provided, you can book an Iceland Self drive package with car rental, hotels and recommendations.

Here are suggested packages of all lengths:

• Summer Self drive tours
• Winter Self drive tours
• And if your budget is limited, they also gathered in one page all their budget Self drive tour options

Or you can head to my article about how to choose your Iceland Self drive tour package .

OPTION 3 – Organized tours with base in Reykjavik

Many companies are offering single day tours departing from Reykjavik to see many of the best attractions in the South of the island. If you have only a few days it can be a good option to stay in the same hotel, and get a snapshot of several areas.

FULL ARTICLE  ==> To see the best options of activities and tours check out my  suggested best day trips from Reykjavik

OPTION 4 – Multi-day Iceland Circuits

Another option if you don’t want to drive (especially in Winter) is to book a circuit over several days. This way you get to see a lot more than with day trips. And you can just sit, relax and admire the scenery.

For example:

• a Summer 7 day Guided Ring Road Tour – check out program and price
• A Summer 10 day Iceland Circle in Minibus – check out program and price
• a Winter 7 day Vacation with Northern lights – a mic of day trips and multi day ones – check out program and price
• An 8 day Winter complete tourPackage  – check out program and price

OPTION 5 – Super Jeep Private Tours

If you have the budget, you can also hire a super jeep and expert drive. This will allow you to discover off the beaten track regions and magnificent landscapes. And I did splurge and offered myself a private 2 Day Super Jeep tour to discover part of the central highlands. I used Discover Iceland and was extremely satisfied. 

OPTION 6 – Bus / hitchhiking

• Except from the very well organized FlyBus that takes you from the airport to Reykjavik, I have not tested the bus system. However note that you will be quite limited if traveling off the main summer months. The public transport system is run by Straeto.
• Many people hitch hike in Iceland as it is a very safe place to do so. However you have to be extremely patient as the flow of cars can be very small. In that case you cannot do much to plan a trip to Iceland.

Note -on Internal Flights in Iceland

If you want to shortcut your tour, or just cover one area of island, you can take internal flights from the Reykjavik domestic airport. Reykjavik to Akyreyri takes 40 minutes. Air Iceland runs many internal flights and they were cheaper than I expected especially if you book them in advance. Plus if you are lucky like me and the weather is clear you get to see part of Iceland from the sky for a lot cheaper than a special flight. I flew over fjords and glaciers and I even saw the cloud from the eruption far away!

What to see in Iceland? Planning an Iceland Trip Itinerary…

Now, if you have opted for a self-drive, it is time to start listing all the locations you do not want to miss. The problem is that there are so many, it is difficult to gather them and make a choice to create your itinerary !

I have made my selection and you can find all my favorite places in the following:

You can surf my website with 65 posts dedicated to Iceland . Most are dedicated to one location at a time with many photos and some videos: Golden Circle , Blue Lagoon , Jokulsarlon , Dimmuborgir , Dettifoss and so much more!

It includes  some  suggested itineraries depending on how long you have!

Check out the main eBook: a  practical road trip travel guide for Iceland I compiled for you. It contains:

• 8 exclusive maps
• 100+ locations with precise planning tips
• GPS coordinates
• More than 100 original pictures

All you need to plan your trip to Iceland!

If you just want to drive around the ring road, check out my other eBook, the practical Ring Road guide  I compiled for you. It contains:

• 30 stops within 10km of the Ring Road
• 10 detours under a day
• More than 70 original pictures
• Map with all locations
• All 2WD accessible

Accommodations – Where to stay in Iceland?

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.

FULL ARTICLE  ==> For information about where to stay in Iceland and for suggestions, check out my Iceland Accommodations Article.

A few points to keep in mind:

• During peak season, accommodations fill in 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 before and options were limited for the Myvatn area)
• A lot of rooms in Guesthouses have 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

Get travel insurance

I really recommend you purchase travel insurance prior to departure. Compared to the budget of such a trip, it is reasonable and, in case of problems, you won’t regret having one. I personally always use World Nomads. Get a quote online here .

Language – The basics

To make your acquaintance smiles.

Almost everyone speaks English. So it is very easy to get around.

However be ready that they will have fun when you try pronouncing the names of places such as Fjadrárgljúfur, especially when talking about the volcano that erupted in 2010: Eyjafjallajökull. 

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

To 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

Things to know to prepare your trip to Iceland

Money – currency, tipping….

• Currency: Icelandic Kronur
• Tipping: It’s not customary to tip in Iceland
• Paying: You can pay even very small amount by credit card. but to minimize the fees you might want to take out cash then plan in advance because there are not that many towns
• Managing cash: Exchange your leftover cash at the airport before leaving. You won’t be able to change it back once outside of Iceland.

FOOD & BEVERAGES – what to expect

• If you like Fish and Seafood, welcome to paradise! I had fish or langoustine at almost evey diner. Delicious!
• In terms of meat, you will see the usual. They serve a lot of Lamb. The Americans on my photo tours were surprised by how tender and good the lamb was (apparently very different from the US version).
• A typical quick bite in Iceland is the hot dog. They mix many sauces in it but it has nothing original.
• Snacks include dry fish… I have not tried, just the smell was repulsive to me. Let me know what younthink if you try it
• Cold tap water in Iceland is fantastic. It comes from the glacier and is delicious
• Alcohol is on the expensive end of the travel spectrum
• Icelandic Supermarkets are not big but you will find a good selection of options for snack and light meals – check out Victoria’s great article with the 5 things to know about the Icelandic Grocery Stores

The Icelandic weather is UNPREDICTABLE and can change every 10 minutes.

So do not watch the weather forecast before leaving. It is going to depress you. Iceland is beautiful in any weather. And you are not going there to lie on the beach so who cares? Just watch once you are there to maybe decide where to go each day if not preplanned.

What to pack for Iceland

Clothes – what to wear in iceland.

Layers, Layers, Layers. This is the golden rules. For Wind, Rain, Sun, Cold

The weather is unpredictable and you need to cover and uncover as it changes. But let’s face it, mostly you need warm clothes. Here is what I had:

• Good waterproof shoes
• Warm hat (I bought one in Iceland which is very comfortable and warm)
• Gloves; personally I took some with a touch screen finger to be able to take pictures with my iPhone without removing them
• Your new best friend, the  rain overpant
• Rain jacket but not too warm because I use layers for that, and a waterproof over pant
• Thermal underwear
• Wind shell jacket
• something to cover your neck
• swimsuit for nature baths and springs

And if you go outside during the night to chase northern lights, make sure to add layers to those you were wearing during the day. It gets cold, especially when it is windy.

Want a more detailed list with product suggestions?

Check out my complete article with detailed suggestions and tips on what to wear and pack for Iceland

Photography and other equipment

Iceland is magical. You can’t help but take hundreds of pictures of the same things. It is THAT beautiful. So here are major things not to forget

• Extra battery
• Extra memory cards – I had already many and bought one more in Iceland – After 16 days I came back with 8000 pictures (well, I did bracketing, so original pictures might be 6000) and 400 short videos. Don’t judge me!
• Rain protection – plastic bac or more evolved options this is mandatory. You will have rain and mist from the waterfalls.
• If you are a little bit more advances, ND filters for the waterfalls will be really helpful
• If you are even more advanced, then you do not need my help…
• Tripod to photograph aurora borealis

I also recommend bringing binoculars to admire the glacier tongues from the distance or to spot puffins. Check out my complete guide to help you find the right binoculars for you.

Good to know before leaving

• SHOWER – Hot water can smell like sulfur. But do not worry it is just due to the way it is heated (with geothermal power). No danger there.
• VISA – Don’t forget to check if you need a visa
• WIFI –  Wifi is widely available, often for free, at gas stations around the country. There are not many Internet café (well, there are not many towns so…) but all places I stayed had wifi had least in the common areas.
• COMMUNICATIONS – Cell phone service is also reliable in many places around the Ring Road
• FITNESS –  Before going I was worried I would miss a lot because I am not fit. But there is so much beauty everywhere that it was really not a problem. Of course, you have activities for all fitness level (e.g. 4 day hike through Thormosk and Landmannalaugar), but most Icelandic highlights are very accessible and your knee problems will just prevent you from seeing them from other viewpoints where you need to climb a little. You will still get to see them.

Want to know more about Iceland?

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Best Iceland Lava Caves

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WHAT TO PACK FOR ICELAND

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Reader Interactions

October 19, 2014 at 8:20 PM

My husband and I are planning to go back to Iceland to drive the ring road and this is SUPER helpful as we stayed mostly in Reykjavik and South Iceland last time. Do you have any recommendations on lodging? We’re backpackers and were just considering camping, but we’re still in the planning stages.

October 20, 2014 at 1:26 PM

Thanks for the comment. I am glad to hear you are finding this helpful. I am not an expert in accommodations as I stayed only in few. However I added a paragraph with some of the things I learned during my own research. I normally prefer camping holidays but this time I had a week on a photography tour for which hotels were booked and for the second week by myself I opted for guesthouses.

March 30, 2017 at 6:03 AM

We’re now planning our trip to Iceland. Your posts are very helpful! Do you think 7 days are enough to do south and west of Iceland? We’re going in mid April so I’m aware the roads might not be in a great condition but the days are longer already so more daylight for driving.

Thanks for any tips, Monika

March 30, 2017 at 5:05 PM

Hi Monika Thanks for your comment With 7 days you can cover quite well the South, the Golden Circle and the Snaefellsnes peninsula. But I think it would be very difficult to add the Western Fjords in the North-West part of the island. You would have to rush a lot, which would feel frustrating. Cheers, Claire

May 17, 2017 at 8:10 PM

We are planning a trip to Iceland in 2018. we are considering travel in September. How far in advance should we begin planning in order to secure the airline tickets, accommodations, sites, events, etc?

May 18, 2017 at 4:15 PM

Hi Patrick. I just checked in Booking.com and by September this year, bookings should be opened for September 2018. You can book as early as you want as, for most, you can cancel until the last few days (unless you get a special price. I think that for September, booking in January should be good to have plenty of choice. But I am not an expert at getting the best deals on flights… 🙂 Happy planning!

February 20, 2018 at 4:48 PM

Hi I plan to visit iceland next summer, the information you wrote is very helpful. thanks lily

February 20, 2018 at 5:23 PM

Glad to read it. Thanks for taking the time to comment. Have a wonderful trip!

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3 Days In Iceland Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip To Iceland

December 19, 2023 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   2 Comments

Searching for the perfect 3 days in Iceland itinerary?

I will walk you through how to pack as much as possible into your three days in Iceland! You will see everything from waterfalls to canyons to black sand beaches!

This itinerary goes at a moderate to fast pace and can be customized to your interests. It is perfect for a quick trip to Iceland at any time of year.

When visiting Iceland for 3 days, I recommend renting a car as this will be a mini road trip!

If you don’t want to rent a car, you can still see many of these sites by booking a group tour or multiple-day tours. I will include more details about booking tours in Iceland later in this post.

I have been to Iceland multiple times and absolutely love it! I know all the best Iceland planning tips and how to make the most of a short stay in this amazing country!

Is 3 days enough to see Iceland? Of course, you cannot experience everything in such a short amount of time. However, 3 days is the ideal timeline to see many of the most popular things to do in Iceland !

Now, let’s look at what to see in Iceland in 3 days!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  where you can share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

3 Day Iceland Itinerary Map

If you are more of a visual person and are wondering where this 3 day Iceland road trip itinerary takes you, check out this map!

Iceland is a very GPS-friendly country and the majority of locations mentioned can be plugged into your GPS or Google Maps! This is our Iceland itinerary in map format!

Day 1: Reykjavik and the Golden Circle

Fly into Keflavik Airport to begin your three days in Iceland. Feel free to modify day one of this Iceland itinerary depending on what time your flight arrives.

This first day will be jam-packed with fantastic sites and things to do!

Stop 1: The Blue Lagoon

Some people think the Blue Lagoon is a big tourist attraction and don’t want to go. But, they are missing out!

While it can be expensive, it is one of the most amazing experiences you will have in your life! I visited the Blue Lagoon during winter, and it was so magical with the snowfall!

Visiting the Blue Lagoon is the perfect way to kick off your 3 days in Iceland itinerary, especially if you arrive on an early flight. They even have Blue Lagoon/Keflavik Airport transfer buses!

To visit the Blue Lagoon you MUST make a reservation! I recommend choosing the cheapest package as I recognize it is an expensive thing to do. However, I think it is 100% worth it as it is one of the best things to do near Reykjavik!

The hot spring pool is huge and even if there are a lot of people visiting, there are places that are more secluded! It is a fun way to begin your trip to Iceland!

Unwinding here is one of the best Iceland stopover ideas!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon Admission with Transfers

Stop 2: A Grocery Store In Reykjavik

If this sounds like an odd thing to do in Iceland. Think again! Grocery stores in Iceland will save you buckets of money during your Iceland weekend trip!

Before you begin your Golden Circle drive, stock up on food and snacks! Purchasing food out, even at gas stations, can add up quickly in Iceland!

Since food is so expensive in Iceland, I recommend making a grocery store your first stop after visiting the Blue Lagoon. If you are staying at an Airbnb in Iceland , make sure to buy enough food to eat all meals for 3 days in Iceland.

If you can’t think of what you want, at least get bread, sandwich meat, peanut butter and jelly, fruit, snacks, and bottled drinks.

If you want to snack, eat something you purchased at the grocery store instead of breaking the bank by going out to eat!

Check out my guide to the prices in Iceland so you know how to budget!

Driving The Golden Circle

During the first day of your Iceland itinerary, you will drive a loop road called the Golden Circle . It begins and ends near Reykjavik.

The drive is an easy 190-mile round-trip journey. Since it is a circle, you can choose to complete it in either direction, but for this 3 days in Iceland itinerary, you will be going clockwise.

The drive can be done in under 3 hours, but I recommend spending at least 4 to 5 hours exploring. If you want to opt out of driving this part, there are many  affordable Golden Circle Tours  you can book.

Stop 3: Thingvellir National Park

The first stop you’ll make on the Golden Circle is Thingvellir National Park.

It is one of the coolest places to see in Iceland because it is where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates touch! Go snorkeling here to see this amazing geological feature!

It is also where the first parliament happened way back in the Viking days! Isn’t that so cool?

There are walks you can do, waterfalls to see, and pullouts to enjoy the views.

Book Here: Silfra: Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos

Stop 4: Geysir Hot Spring Area

One great thing about the Golden Circle is the diversity of things you will see on this drive! Boiling mud pots? Check! Geysers that erupt almost on schedule? Check!

If you are based in the capital for this first day, you can easily make this a day trip from Reykjavik!

Geysir Hot Spring Area allows you to walk among geysers and boiling mud pots so you must be very careful to stay on the approved path.

The Strokkur geyser erupts almost on a schedule so you will see it during your stop! Have your camera ready as the best part of the eruption is the giant blue bubble that forms just moments before the geyser erupts hundreds of feet into the air!

Book Here: Reykjavik: The Golden Circle Day Tour

Stop 5: Brúarfoss Waterfall

Brúarfoss Waterfall is a much lesser-known Golden Circle location but it should not be missed!

This location isn’t a stop on the typical “Golden Circle Drive” but I know the secrets and think you should add it to your 3-day Iceland tour!

The water is stunning and really does look this blue in real life! It is a beautiful hike with multiple waterfalls along the way.

The waterfall can be found by typing “Brúarfoss Waterfall” into your GPS! Make sure to add the “waterfall” part to your GPS for accurate directions.

Stop 6: Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss Waterfall is one of the biggest waterfalls you will see during your 3 days in Iceland.

Gullfoss is open whether you plan your Iceland layover tour in winter or summer, and it looks completely different during each season!

You can view Gullfoss from above, or you can walk down the stairs to get up close and personal with this powerful waterfall!

There is also a gift shop and restaurant that overlooks the waterfall. If you do choose to eat, this is a great place to grab lunch on the first afternoon in Iceland.

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full Day Tour

Stop 7: Downtown Reykjavik

End your first day in Iceland by exploring Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city.

You are probably super tired from your flight and day exploring the Golden Circle, so I don’t blame you if you just want to unwind in your lodging and sleep!

If you want to get out, visit the Sun Voyager sculpture and walk along the riverfront.

I also recommend seeing Hallgrímskirkja Church. It is one of the tallest buildings in the city and is located in the heart of downtown.

Book Here: Reykjavik: Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Viking

Book Here: Reykjavik: Icelandic Food Tour

Optional Activity For Winter: Take A Northern Lights Tour

If you visit Iceland in winter , you probably are dying to see the northern lights! They are super exciting to see and top many people’s bucket lists!

Since you only have 3 days in Iceland, taking a northern lights tour is a good way to maximize your chances of seeing the lights. The guides know the best tips and places for seeing the northern lights in Iceland .

Be prepared to stay up late. The lights are not always visible and you need the perfect conditions.

This is a top experience for a 3-day winter itinerary for Iceland!

Book Here: Iceland: Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Northern Lights Sightseeing Cruise

Where to Stay on Your First Night in Iceland

The first day of your 3 days in Iceland was jam-packed with fun things to do! Don’t worry, the next two days will be a bit slower-paced!

For the first night, you can choose to book accommodation in the heart of Reykjavik or more on the outskirts. There are plenty of great places to stay in Reykjavik !

Since you are leaving town tomorrow and heading to Iceland’s south coast, I recommend booking accommodation on the outskirts of Reykjavik.

If you want to skip exploring downtown Reykjavik altogether, you can even spend the night in Selfoss which is right at the end of the Golden Circle drive. Check out where to stay on the Golden Circle !

Where To Stay In Reykjavik: 

Mid-Range: Reykjavik Natura – Berjaya Iceland Hotels . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Alda Hotel Reykjavik . Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Day 2: Best Of Iceland’s South Coast

On the second day of your 3 days in Iceland itinerary, you will leave the Reykjavik area and head towards the town of Vik on the south coast .

This is my all-time favorite part of Iceland and an unforgettable part of your Iceland itinerary. The driving is easy and the views are stunning. Many sights are close together so there is not a ton of driving.

Stop 1: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Start the second day of your 3 days in Iceland by visiting the stunning  Seljalandsfoss Waterfall !

This waterfall is located just under 2 hours from Reykjavik. Simply put “Seljalandsfoss Waterfall” in your GPS and head out.

Seljalandsfoss is a cool stop on your Iceland itinerary because you can walk behind it! Bring a poncho or risk getting wet!

If you visit Iceland in winter, Seljalandsfoss will be covered in snow and ice so you will not be able to walk behind it but you can still enjoy it from the front.

You can see Seljalandsfoss from the Ring Road so it is hard to miss!

This is one of the best stops along the Ring Road in Iceland !

Stop 2: Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

Located a short walk from Seljalandsfoss, the hidden Gljúfrabúi Waterfall is one of the most unique waterfalls in Iceland ! To find the waterfall, face Seljalandsfoss and walk about a quarter-mile to your left.

Reach the waterfall by walking through a gorge on stepping stones. Wear waterproof shoes and don’t forget that poncho!

Here you will see Gljúfrabúi Waterfall in all of its glory cascading into the mossy gorge! This is one of the most fun stops on any Iceland itinerary and there is a big payoff at the end!

Stop 3: Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool

After driving in the car and exploring two waterfalls, it is time for a short hike and a relaxing soak in the Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool .

This hot spring is located in the mountains near the waterfalls you just visited. To get there, simply type “Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool” in your GPS.

From the parking lot, walk a short 20 minutes to this hidden swimming pool in the mountains heated by geothermal water! The walk is winding and has a bit of uphill and downhill, but it is moderate.

This is a great free choice for hot springs in Iceland !

Stop 4: Skogafoss Waterfall

Your next stop will be the impressive Skogafoss Waterfall ! This 197-foot-tall and 82-foot-wide waterfall can be seen from the road so you won’t waste time trying to find it!

Skogafoss is easily accessible in both the winter and the summer! It is a short walk from the parking lot.

When visiting Skogafoss on your Iceland itinerary, make sure to walk the stairs on the right side of the waterfall to the top! Here you will get a unique perspective of the landscape!

This is my favorite waterfall in the world! If you have 3 days in Iceland, you really need to stop here!

Stop 5: Kvernufoss Waterfall

Kvernufoss Waterfall is another special hidden gem that isn’t included on most 3-day Iceland itineraries!

This waterfall is located off the same Ring Road stop as Skogafoss Waterfall, but there are no GPS directions to Kvernufoss Waterfall!

The short hike to this waterfall begins behind the Skogar Museum so navigate yourself there and begin! You have to hop over a fence but it is set up so you can easily jump over!

Not far from the fence, you will enter a rugged and mossy gorge. The hike goes along the river until you reach Kvernufoss!

This is another waterfall you can walk behind and it is quite a cool experience!

Stop 6: Sólheimasandur Airplane Wreck

Looking for a unique thing to do during your 3 days in Iceland? Visiting the Sólheimasandur Airplane Wreck on a black sand beach will be one of the most memorable activities!

Luckily, no one died in this plane crash so you can explore without being disrespectful. The wreck is located very near Skogafoss so keep your eye out for a small, makeshift parking area.

The walk from the parking lot is long at about 2.5 miles (4 km) round trip. It is easy though, on flat to a slightly rocky beach. Depending on how fast you walk, it can take anywhere from 30-45 minutes each way.

You will not see the plane until you come over a hill and are right upon it. Make sure to budget plenty of time for this walk so you don’t get caught out in the dark and have enough time to enjoy your stay!

Please note that climbing or walking on the plane is not allowed.

Here are the exact coordinates to get to the plane crash – 63.459523,-19.364618

Book Here: South Coast: ATV Quad Bike Safari

Spend The Night in Vik on Day Two

For the second night, spend the night in the cute town of Vik!

Although it is a small town, there are a variety of accommodation options ranging from nice hotels, hostels, and a campground. There is a grocery store and a gas station.

I have an entire article about where to stay in Vik so if you are searching, this is the place to check out even more detailed suggestions!

Where to Stay In Vik :

Affordable: Puffin Hostel Vik . Check Rates: Booking.com  

Mid-Range: Guest House Galleri Vik . Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Hotel Kria . Check Rates: Booking.com

Day 3: South Coast Highlights

As the last of your 3 days in Iceland, you want to make the most of it!

Since you spent the night in Vik, you are in luck as there are a lot of great things to do in Vik and nearby!

This is also a great time to see anything you may have missed or skipped for the sake of time on the other two days!

Stop 1: Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is located less than 5 minutes from Vik back the way you entered the town!

You can easily reach the amazing black sand and basalt columns by a side road off Highway 1 near Vik.

If the tide is out, and I mean way out, you can climb on the basalt columns on Reynisfjara Beach. Otherwise, walk along the beach and marvel at the stunning views and black sand!

This is one of the most dangerous beaches in Iceland and “sneaker waves” have claimed the lives of tourists in the past. Always keep an eye on the waves.

Stop 2: Dyrhólaey

Dyrhólaey is located down the hill on the Ring Road after you get back on the main road from the beach. Make sure to keep an eye out for the small sign!

There are two parts to Dyrhólaey, a lower part where you can walk around rocks and down onto the beach, and a higher part where you can drive up to Dyrhólaey Lighthouse!

To see the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse, the drive is short but steep and winding and there are no guardrails! It is doable during the winter in a 2×2 car but it is sketchy!

Once you park, walk straight toward the edge of the cliff. You will be rewarded with a view of a black sand beach stretching as far as the eye can see!

While you are up there, make sure to walk around Dyrhólaey Lighthouse and explore the different views. There is a sea arch that is pretty cool to take pictures of as well!

If you are a photographer, this is a particularly epic stop on your Iceland weekend itinerary! Look for puffins from May through August. They are some of the cutest animals in Iceland !

Stop 3: Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

After you explore the black sand beaches near Vik, drive east on the Ring Road for about 50 minutes until you come across the sign for Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon.

This is the furthest you will go on the Ring Road since you have just 3 days in Iceland but this is well worth the stop!

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a lesser-known stop and is rarely included on many Iceland itineraries but it is stunning and easy to get to.

To get to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, simply plug it into your GPS or Google Maps and you will be taken right to the mouth of the canyon. It is located right off the Ring Road and there is a bathroom and parking lot at the bottom.

You can walk down in the canyon or up along the edges. This makes for some fantastic photo opportunities!

Just be careful when walking near the edge of the cliff as the edge of the dirt may be loose and it could be dangerous!

This is one of the coolest Iceland canyons and should not be missed during your layover in Iceland!

Optional Stop 6: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

This stop is optional on your 3-day Iceland itinerary because the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a bit far from Reykjavik for your drive back.

You haven’t seen anything until you have seen a glacier lagoon in Iceland! This is such a beautiful and unique landscape!

Chunks of crystal-clear, blue ice sit on a perfectly black beach. Look for the seals that often come out to play among the floating icebergs.

Once you are done at the glacier lagoon, drive across the street and see the famous Diamond Beach.

This is where the ice chunks from the glacier lagoon flow into the ocean. Then the smooth ice chunks wash up on the black sand beach which looks like a diamond.

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

Stop 5: Reykjavik

If you were too tired to explore Reykjavik on your first day, I don’t blame you! Now is a great time to end your 3 days in Iceland itinerary in the capital city. Do a little shopping or take a walking tour!

The drive to Reykjavik from Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon will take about 3 hours. You will pass all the sites you saw on day 2 if you want to stop and see anything a second time.

This is also a good time for an evening at the Blue Lagoon if you missed it at the beginning of your Iceland stopover itinerary!

Spend Your Last Night In Iceland In Reykjavik Or Vik

Depending on what time your flight leaves, you may choose to spend your third night in Vik as opposed to Reykjavik. This will give you time to explore the south coast of Iceland more.

If you choose to stay in Reykjavik, I recommend picking a place that is on the outskirts of town if you have an early flight to catch.

Keflavik Airport is pretty chill when it comes to security and getting through the airport because it is small, but you don’t want to be late!

Where to Stay In Vik:

Spending 3 Days In Iceland Without Driving (Tours)

If you want to spend 3 days in Iceland and don’t want to drive, that is okay!

I will recommend the best tours in Iceland below that mimic what I recommended above. You won’t be able to see some of the lesser-known spots I suggested, but you will see the highlights!

If you choose to do your 3-night trip to Iceland through tours, I recommend making Reykjavik your home base. This way, you will be near where the tours start and some even pick you up from your lodging.

Spending 3 days in Reykjavik means you don’t have to bother booking multiple accommodations.

If you just have a layover in Reykjavik these tours are ideal!

Day 1: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour (8.5 Hours)

This trip is one of the bestselling guided tours in Iceland! This tour mimics day 1 of my self-drive 3 days in Iceland itinerary.

This 8.5-hour  Golden Circle Full-Day Guided Trip will bring you to Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, and the Kerid Crater.

The Kerid volcano crater is amazing with iron-colored dirt and deep, green water at the bottom.

It is one of the best Iceland tours because, for an extremely affordable rate, you pack in everything there is to see on the Golden Circle. All without having to drive!

If you want to end the day relaxing at the Blue Lagoon, consider booking the 11-hour Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Small-Group Tour .

After exploring the Golden Circle, you will love unwinding in the mineral-rich water.

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Guided Trip

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Small-Group Tour

Day 2: South Iceland Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (10 hours)

This may be your favorite day in Iceland especially if you love waterfalls and beaches!

This 10-hour South of Iceland Full-Day Trip features all of the top sights in the region.

Watch the dramatic Iceland landscape pass by as you are driven to Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, Sólheimajökull glacier, and Reynisfjara Beach. You’ll have lunch in Vik.

If you want to tack on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, book this 14-hour day tour instead!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip

Day 3: Explore Reykjavik With A City Tour

On the last day of your weekend in Iceland itinerary, spend the day exploring Reykjavik.

What better way to see the city than with an affordable hop-on hop-off bus tour ? I particularly love the Reykjavik waterfront so make sure you hop off here and walk around.

You can also enjoy some of the best food and drinks in town on a food tour . Spend 3 hours eating delicious local cuisine!

Animal lovers will want to book a whale-watching tour in Iceland . Near Reykjavik in Faxaflói Bay, you will spot many cool marine animals! The best time to see whales is in the summer.

Add a whale-watching tour to your 3-day summer itinerary for Iceland!

Book Here: Reykjavik Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: 24 or 48-Hour Ticket

Book Here: Reykjavik: 3-Hour Foodie Adventure Walking Tour

Book Here: Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise

Optional Day 3: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour (11 hours)

If you want to skip Reykjavik and find something more unique, consider taking a tour to visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula !

This West Iceland region is a much lesser-known part of the country even though it is home to Kirkjufell, a mountain seen in almost every article about Iceland!

This 11-hour  Snaefellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour  will bring you to rocky coastlines, lava fields, waterfalls, mountains, and more!

If you want to book a great Iceland 3-day itinerary without a car, this is it!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

Multi-Day Group Tours

Another option is to book a multi-day tour in Iceland . This is a great alternative to booking many different day tours.

These are more expensive, but all the planning, transportation, and accommodations are taken care of. You will have a fun and stress-free trip with experienced guides leading the way.

Book Here : Reykjavík: 2-Day Tour with Icebergs, Glaciers & Waterfalls

Book Here: Iceland: 3-Day Golden Circle, South Coast, & Glacier Tour

First Time In Iceland Travel Tips

How to get to iceland.

Start your 3 days in Iceland by flying into Keflavik Airport. This is the main international airport in Iceland.

I recommend  checking out Skyscanner to find the best and most affordable flights into Iceland. I use this tool to discover the best flights because you can easily compare rates. 

Keflavik Airport is located about 45 minutes away from the city of Reykjavik.

If you are not renting a car in Iceland or taking tours, you will want to take a bus into the city. This is also an option if you are going to be picking up your rental car from Reykjavik instead of the airport.

Book Here: Keflavik Airport & Reykjavik Hotels: Economy Bus Transfer

How To Drive In Iceland

If you only have 3 days in Iceland, a great way to maximize your time is to rent a car! Renting a car and driving in Iceland is quite easy, even during the winter!

You do NOT have to rent a 4×4 vehicle to complete this Iceland itinerary. I have never rented a 4×4 for any trips to Iceland.

The roads in Iceland are in incredible shape and drivers are not crazy. Driving for the first time is easy! There are speed cameras, so if you don’t want a speeding ticket, make sure to follow the laws of the road.

When driving in Iceland, you will also have to factor in gas because it can get pricey! Luckily, since you are spending just 3 days in Iceland, you will save on gas as you won’t be driving quite as far as others due to the length of your stay.

Is Driving Necessary In Iceland?

My 3-day Iceland itinerary offers both the option of a self-drive road trip OR completing the entire itinerary via tours. If you are tentative about driving in Iceland, do not worry as it is really easy!

I have driven in Iceland in all four seasons including rain, snow, sleet, hail, wind, and more. If you take proper precautions, you should be 100% fine! 

Remember to look out for local road closures and safety information. You can visit this website to keep up with the conditions during your trip! It has all the up-to-date information.

That being said, if you do NOT want to drive in Iceland, there are still some options to see this entire 3-day Iceland itinerary without driving. Simply book guided tours!

It is easy to do an Iceland itinerary without a car!

While in the Reykjavik area, you can also utilize public buses. Hitchhiking is also common and considered safe in Iceland.

Accommodations In Iceland

It is no secret that Iceland is expensive. I recommend booking a vacation rental because you will gain valuable access to a kitchen. You can save money by buying groceries and cooking your own meals.

I have tried both hotels and Airbnbs while in Iceland and both are great. I have a complete hotel guide on where to stay in Iceland !

For something unique, camping in Iceland is also super popular and affordable. There are a ton of campgrounds dotted throughout the country.

Many campsites in Iceland are modern with restrooms, showers, shared kitchens, wifi, and other amenities.

Iceland is remote and vast so no matter where you stay, you will be close to nature and amazing views.

I hope you enjoy your amazing 3 nights in Iceland!

Want to stay in Iceland a little longer? Check out my 5 days in Iceland itinerary !

Reader Interactions

July 15, 2023 at 10:08 pm

Hello! First, thank you for all of the wonderful information. Second, I recall you having the 3 day Iceland road trip itinerary available to download/import directly into Google Maps. However, I no longer see that as an option. Can you help? Thanks in advance!

July 17, 2023 at 4:52 am

is there a way to print the itinerary?

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The port of Isafjordur in the westfjords region of Iceland has attracted record numbers of cruise ... [+] ships in recent years.

Unlike more traditional cruise destinations, Iceland presents a rugged, untamed beauty. Known for its raw and varied landscapes, Iceland offers a seemingly endless list of natural wonders, from the steaming geothermal vents and spouting geysers to the dramatic glaciers and thunderous waterfalls.

The island's rich Viking heritage and folklore add layers of intrigue to its already captivating landscapes.

This unique terrain, coupled with the opportunity—depending on the season—to enjoy the midnight sun or mystical northern lights, makes Iceland a prime destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those fascinated by the interplay of culture and the natural world.

Cruising around Iceland not only allows travelers to experience the volcanic landscapes from a unique vantage point but also offers convenient transport between the main ports and highlights of Iceland , all from the comfort of a modern cruise ship.

The cruise industry has recognized Iceland's appeal, offering an increasing variety of itineraries that cater to different interests and time frames, including extensive circumnavigations of the island.

According to Cruise Iceland , cruise ships registered almost one million passenger visits in 2023, marking an 80% increase from 2019.

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The accessibility of remote fjords, wildlife encounters including puffins and whales, and the chance to experience the midnight sun in summer or witness the mystical northern lights in winter, are among the highlights of these voyages.

Something to bear in mind is the additional cost required for excursions, whether you book through the cruise line or choose independent options.

Unlike a Norwegian fjords cruise , which you can enjoy without leaving the ship, Iceland cruises require additional transport to reach the most iconic sites. They are also a wise idea if you want to make the most of wildlife-watching opportunities.

Whale watching is a major tourist attraction in Northern Iceland.

The most popular Icelandic cruise port is Reykjavik, followed by Akureyri in the north of the country, Isafjordur in the westfjords region, and Seydisfjordur on the east coast.

An itinerary that includes all four of these ports—Reykjavik, Akureyri, Isafjordur, and Seydisfjordur—offers guests a comprehensive appreciation of Iceland’s varied landscapes.

Fly-Cruise From Reykjavik

If you don’t mind flying, Reykjavik is the starting point for many of the more in-depth circumnavigations of Iceland.

Such cruises contain fewer sea days and may call at smaller ports, offering a more intimate experience of Iceland, while also allowing guests to spend a few days exploring the Icelandic capital before or after the cruise.

This 7-day Iceland Intensive itinerary from Celebrity Cruises begins and ends in Reykjavik and includes port calls in Reykjavik, Seydisfjordur, Djúpivogur, and Akureyri.

Iceland Cruises From The U.K.

The U.K. is a popular departure point for Iceland cruises, some of which may also include ports of call in Scotland and Norway. The Port of Southampton is the most common departure port, used by lines including Celebrity, Cunard, Norwegian Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, and Princess.

This 14-day cruise on Norwegian Prima starts and ends in Southampton and includes three Icelandic ports, including an overnight stay in Reykjavik, along with three ports of call in Norway.

Some small ship lines such as Ambassador, Fred Olsen, and Saga Cruises, offer departures from regional ports such as Dover, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Rosyth.

The gateway to the westfjords region, Isafjordur is increasingly found on Iceland cruise ... [+] itineraries.

Other popular departure points across Europe include the Netherlands (Celebrity, Holland America) and Germany (AIDA). Although the latter does welcome English speakers, some knowledge of German is advised to get the most from the experience.

Northern Transatlantic Route

Another option to consider is a one-way cruise between North America and Europe that calls in to at least one port in Iceland. Such repositioning cruises that take a northern route often include additional ports of call in Greenland, the Faroe Islands, Norway, and the United Kingdom.

Luxury Cruises To Iceland

In addition to the mainstream cruise lines, Iceland is a popular destination for luxury and ultra-luxury lines such as Seabourn, Silversea, and Windstar.

Iceland is also a popular destination for expedition cruise lines such as Aurora Expeditions, Hurtigruten Expeditions, and Lindblad. This option is worth considering for travelers interested in learning more about the science behind Iceland’s geology or the wildlife that calls its chilly waters home.

Packing For An Iceland Cruise

When packing for an Iceland cruise, remember that the weather can be as varied as the landscape itself. It's essential to be prepared for all conditions, regardless of the season.

The cornerstone of any travel wardrobe for Iceland is layering. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry, add an insulating layer for warmth, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This approach allows you to adjust your clothing to match the weather, which can change several times in a day.

A waterproof jacket and pants are crucial, as rain is possible any time of the year. Waterproof hiking shoes or boots are also essential if you plan to explore Iceland's rugged terrain during port stops.

Don't forget warm accessories such as hats, gloves, and scarves, but also sun protection including sunglasses and sunscreen. For wildlife enthusiasts, a good pair of binoculars is invaluable. To keep all these accessories safe and at hand, a sturdy daypack is useful for shore excursions.

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Everything You Need to Know When Planning Your First Trip to Iceland

When planning and booking your trip to Iceland, the first step is getting there. One of the best tips we can offer is to leave JFK’s crowds behind and fly directly to Iceland out of Stewart International Airport with PLAY . The company started in 2019 and offers travelers a variety of flights between North America and Europe, and that includes the always magical and popular Land of Ice and Fire.

What makes PLAY such a good choice is how the company recognizes the needs of its customers. Passengers can choose an à la cart deal where they can pay for an upgraded experience with plenty of amenities and snacks, or they can fly to Iceland on a budget, which leaves extra cash for more adventures. Beyond the tickets, travelers can enjoy an elevated experience, adding checked bags, an inflight food and beverage credit, and a seat with extra leg room—all definitely worth it.

In addition to PLAY providing a pleasant travel experience, the company values sustainability by reducing fuel consumption, making efforts to cut back on waste, and offset carbon emissions. That allows for an even more peaceful flight.

Where to Stay

Once you arrive in Reykjavík, Iceland, check into the Grandi by Center Hotels . The property is in a great location and boasts an industrial, stylish feel. The rooms are comfortable and spacious, with plenty of modern touches. The hotel has strong WiFi and breakfast for travelers on the go. Best of all, the friendly staff at the front desk is always willing to offer suggestions and advice on how to use public transportation, where to eat, and what to do.

Where to Eat

For starters, the restaurant at the Grandi by Center Hotels, Héðinn Kitchen & Bar , is a great option, especially for the night that you arrive, so you don’t have to worry about getting around town. You can just settle in and enjoy delicious dishes like the ribeye with fresh herb butter and grilled padron pepper, a side dish of potatoes with cheese foam and Jerusalem artichokes, and a cocktail like the Lúpina with lavender gin, blanc vermouth, and Creme de Violette.

The ambiance at Monkeys Reykjavik is stunning with beautiful floral patterns, striking furniture, art decorating the walls, and unique light fixtures. The food is as impressive as the décor. The wagyu nigiri with foie gras and garlic melts in your mouth with the even marbling of fat. The rack of lamb with pepper polenta, roasted corn salsa, and miso hollandaise sauce was perfectly cooked and the fresh scallops and foie gras with crispy chicken skin was the perfect blend of textures. Save room for the Monkeys mandarin, their famous dessert.

Fish Company (Fiskfélagið) is a wonderful option for trying some local dishes, like the sherry marinated reindeer carpaccio with cepes purée, crispy oyster mushrooms, foie gras, hazelnut, and parmigiano. The fresh salad with deep fried langoustine and seared tiger prawns in a creamy garlic dressing (with salty mixed olives, cherry tomatoes, and parmigiano reggiano) and creamy lobster soup (with langoustine and chestnut paste, apples, and marinated celery) are two delicious dishes that let the Icelandic lobster, langoustines, shine.

With all the delicious food to try in Iceland, a hot dog might not be first on your list, but a visit to Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur should be. The dogs in Iceland aren’t what you may think, as they are primarily made up of lamb with a little high-quality beef and pork. The famous stand dates to the 1930s, and these well-known dogs are doctored with raw onions, crispy fried onions, and ketchup on the roll, and after tucking the dog into the bun, it’s then topped with a remoulade and mustard sauce.

Íslenski barinn is a great place to stop if you want to try some truly unique Icelandic cuisine, including Viking-inspired foods like fermented shark and dried fish with butter. There are dishes like puffin on Icelandic crumpet with berries, remoulade, fried onions, pickled red onions, and chili peppers and fin whale on Icelandic crumpet with langreud, pickles, remoulade, onion rings, and parsley.

For dessert or a sweet snack, Baka Baka has a wide selection of donuts and treats that can’t be missed. The raspberry donuts filled with a raspberry cream were phenomenal, the perfect pairing for a latte on the go.

The Puffin Express Tour is barely a 10-minute walk from the hotel in Reykjavik, and it will take visitors on a boat trip to puffin island (aka Akurey). It doesn’t take long to get to the site, where you will see so many puffins floating in the water, flying at speeds of nearly 55 mph, and settling in, nesting on the rocks along the water. It’s such a special experience, and worth every penny. If you want to fill your itinerary with wildlife encounters, they also offer a Whale Watching Excursion , on which guests voyage in search of humpbacks in the wild.

When you’re visiting Iceland for the first time, you have to make time for a Golden Circle Express Tour . This special bus trip takes guests to famous sites along the circle, like the geothermal Geysir to see activity at Strokkur, Thingvellir National Park, and Gullfoss with an opportunity to hike into the mist of the powerful falls. The café inside the visiting center at the Geysir has some delicious fish stew, loaded with huge, tender pieces of cod, perfect for a quick bite before jumping on the bus.

There’s a lot to see in Iceland and it’s difficult to fit it all in, but I can’t recommend the South Shore Excursion enough. You hit sites and destinations while enjoying the ride, taking in the stunning landscapes and visiting multiple Foss waterfalls. You’ll also ride through Vík, a small village boasting boulders and cliffs. Stop along the way at sites like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss to hike around the waterfalls, legendary Eyjafjallajökull, and the black sand of Reynisfjara (just be cautious of the sneaker waves that give the beach it’s dangerous reputation) where many photos will be taken of the Reynisdrangar rock formations.

A relaxing spa has been added to the industrial area near Kópavogur, and Sky Lagoon begs to be explored and enjoyed. The geothermal spa has an infinity pool with a waterfall and a seven-step ritual involving steam rooms, a cold plunge, body exfoliator, sauna, mist, and hot showers. The experience leaves your skin silky smooth as you head back to relax in the warm water with a drink in your hand.

When you’re in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is also an absolute must. This natural body of water is located in a lava field and has a soft, baby blue hue to it from the minerals, leaving your skin feeling radiant. Apply the face mask and grab a drink from the bar, as you can be healthy and order a green juice or treat yourself to a beer, before walking around and exploring the lagoon.

And don’t forget to explore Reykjavík. Set aside time to walk around the city and you’ll encounter coffee shops, local boutiques, restaurants, and exciting landmarks like public murals, the Sun Voyager, the Hallgrímskirkja Church, and Rainbow Street. Stop into a local cafe to try a ponnukokur, an Icelandic pancake similar to a crepe.

The post Everything You Need to Know When Planning Your First Trip to Iceland appeared first on Islands .

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Aloha for hawaii trip help - Iceland Forum

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Aloha for hawaii trip help

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Aloha my fellow islanders ...trying to visit early oct with my wife and 6 year old trying to keep it manageable and not get in over my head with driving because safety first and weather ...anyways planning to do about 9-10 days and want to do a west to south east coast trip .... i think i want to land go to capital for a night or two ( can't spell it yet ) and then to Snaefellsnes Peninsula for two nights and then work my way east one night in golden circle area then out to the south coast stay in vik one night then glacier park area at the park for 2 nights ...blue lagoon one night head home .....or do i want o go east to west instead first ? ...figure go to city first because of the jet lag ? do i want to go as far as hofn ? or turn around at park ? I am just looking to see the major sights hopefully northern lights and a few easy hikes around hotel or villages with easy access cause i'm the only photographer!!!! I guess without doing the whole the ring road i will be back tracking a bit but i guess that's ok ...ring road seems beautiful but with the kid just want to keep the drives 2 hours max .....anyways is that a good plan ?

thanks for your help and sorry i didn't name all the names way harder then hawaiiin language 😂

7 replies to this topic

I don’t get the thread title?

You can look up spellings

What kind of winter driving experience do you have? October can certainly see snow, ice and strong winds.

My reading is:

Snaefellsnes - 2 nights

Golden Circle - 1 night

Vik - 1 night

Glacier Park (guessing that's Vatnajokull ) - 2 nights

Blue Lagoon - 1 night

Which is nine nights. It looks fine, except Vatnajokull back to Reykjavik or Keflavik is a long drive, and the Blue Lagoon is near Keflavik, so makes no sense in terms of the trip order (unless you're planning on driving there to stay a night. Still a very long drive).

Definitely Reykjavik first night or two for jet lag. It's probably worth fitting the Blue Lagoon in then too.

I encourage you to take the time to at least get the spellings if these places, even if you can't come close to pronouncing them correctly. It will help you communicate better and it is also a great way to learn even just a little about another culture and it's language before your visit. It is an incredibly respectful gesture.

ok thankyou for your advice .....

thankyou for the advice ....

take it easy culture police ...anyone with brains knows what i was talking about ...i was typing on my phone in my 5 mins of free time at work and didn't have time to properly type it out ....no one from the usa should every talk about respecting other people language culture and grammar trust me ...thankyou everyone i will try to break up my drive back and will not drive if the roads are bad checking road conditions im glad my plan sounds good ....Aloha and safe travels

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