summer road trip iceland

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BLOG , CAMPING , Destinations , Europe , Iceland , Road Trips · October 24, 2021

• The Ultimate Iceland Summer Road Trip Itinerary

This post is also available in: Nederlands

Are you trying to plan an epic Summer road trip to Iceland ? But no idea where to start or how many places you can visit in one day? Well, I am very happy to say that I’ve got you completely covered!

So far I’ve visited Iceland three times and every single time I went on a road trip with a camper. It’s an adventurous way to discover the island but I also know that it’s not for everyone. That’s why besides the best camp sites in Iceland I also included some of the most unique stays in Iceland .

This itinerary will lead you through the most insane landscapes, past dozens of waterfalls and it will also take you deep into the Icelandic Highlands . This Iceland road trip guide will cover nearly every part of the ring road and if you want you can even add a couple more days so you can cover even more of this stunning island.

This road trip guide will cover every day step by step and location by location. But that’s not all. I will also tell you everything that you need to know about driving in Iceland and how to stay safe on the road!

☀️ Why you should visit Iceland in the Summer

My favorite time to visit Iceland is definitely the Summer months of June, July or August . The days are longer, the temperatures are a little less icy and Icelandic nature is at its absolute best! Visiting Iceland during the Summer months is for if you want to:

• Go on a whale watching tour
• Explore the Icelandic Highlands
• Go on adventurous hikes
• See the world famous purple lupin fields
• See puffins in their natural habitat
• See the midnight sun

🇮🇸 Some strange and interesting facts about Iceland

• Many Icelanders believe in elves and trolls and that they reside within the Highlands of Iceland .
• You can swim outdoors in hot springs all year round.
• There’s no McDonald’s in entire Iceland.
• There are more than 30 volcanic regions scattered throughout the country.
• Over 10% of the country is covered in glaciers.
• The country has no train or railway system.
• The longest word found in Icelandic is: vaðlaheiðarvegavinnuverkfærageymsluskúraútidyralyklakippuhringur.
• Iceland has been chosen multiple times as the best place to live as a woman.

✈️ Getting into Iceland

The easiest way to reach Iceland is to  fly to Keflavik Airport  which lies on the Reykjanes peninsula. A ton of international airlines have a stop over in Iceland and their own national air carrier  IcelandAir  offers a ton of daily flights from the USA and Europe.

Once you’ve arrived at the airport you can simply pick up your rental car or camper van and you’re good to go! If you’re planning on driving yourself you may want to watch out for the taxi’s outside of the airport. They tend to overcharge so you’re far better of taking one of the local busses to Reykjavik.

📲 Which apps to download before visiting Iceland in the Summer

• Vedur  – An accurate Icelandic  weather app . Official warnings get updated automatically.
• 112 Iceland  – An application for the  Icelandic Emergency Service
• Hotpot  – The perfect website to scan for those hidden hot springs around the island!

💡  TIP  – Create your own travel map in Google Maps . I always save all of the locations that I want to visit on Google Maps and this way I can easily create a daily itinerary and see which places are located close to each other. To make your trip even more easy you. can also save the locations of the campsites in a different color. This way you have all of your travel information in one place and you can easily navigate from one place to the other.

How to get around Iceland

Where to rent your car or camper.

When doing a road trip around Iceland you’ll either need to rent a car or a camper. So far I’ve only traveled here with a camper and while it’s a little more adventurous than simply renting a car you’ll also have the most flexibility.

For my camper I always turn to Happy Campers . They rent fully-equipped campers with a bed, kitchen, space heater, and everything you’d need for your road trip. So far I’ve tested out their Happy 1, Happy 2 and Happy 4×4.

With this itinerary you’ll need the Happy 4×4 since you’ll be exploring the Icelandic Highlands.

If camping isn’t for you and you want to add a little more luxury to your trip by staying at local hotels then I suggest you rent a car with SunnyCars . They offer an excellent service and all of the insurances are included in the total price. So that means no hidden costs when you pick up your car!

The same goes here: if you want to be able to follow this entire itinerary make sure to book a 4×4.

What is driving like in Iceland

In general driving in Iceland is very easy and straight forward. There are just a couple of things that you need to know before embarking on your road trip but then you’re good to go.

• Speed limit – The speed limit in Iceland varies from 30km/h up to 90km/h but never higher.
• Ring Road – This is the main road that leads all around the island and is also referred to as Road 1.
• F-roads – These are the unpaved mountain roads that will take you in and through the Icelandic HIghlands. You’re only allowed to drive on them during the Summer months and with a 4×4 vehicle.
• Sheep – There definitely more sheep in Iceland than there are humans and they love to roam free and especially next to the road. If you spot them from the distance make sure to lower your speed cause they love nothing more than crossing the road when you get nearer.
• Driver’s License – You don’t need an international driver’s license if you want to rent a car or camper in Iceland. Just bring your passport, credit card, and your driver’s license from your home country.
• Off Road – It’s strictly forbidden to drive off road in Iceland. Don’t mistake driving on an F-road with driving off road. The F-roads are unpaved gravel roads and you can freely roam these with a 4×4. But driving off road in Iceland is illegal and will lead to high fines.
• Headlights – Iceland has a unique law that requires you to keep your headlights on at all times.
• Extreme weather – Iceland is known for its strong winds and yes you may encounter these during the Summer months as well. When parking your car make sure it faces the wind so that when you open your car door it can’t fly off.
• Gas stations – Gas stations in Iceland are sparse so always make sure to fuel up before you start another long drive. Especially when you’re visiting the Highlands, make sure to fill up your gas tank cause there are no gas stations to be found in the Icelandic Highlands.
• GPS – If you have international cell service you don’t need to add a GPS to your car rental service. Google Maps works really well in Iceland. Another option is to buy a local SIM card.
• Wild Camping – Wild camping in Iceland with a camper is illegal and you should always use designated campsites.

🗺 The Ultimate 9 Day Iceland Summer Road Trip Itinerary

This Summer road trip in Iceland had been months, maybe even years, in the making. But every single time that nasty virus and all of the restrictions that came with it cancelled our plans. So when I heard that fully vaccinated travelers where welcome again in Iceland without having to quarantine I literally jumped for joy.

I told Christof we could start planning but oh well one day later I had already booked our flights… OOPS😬.

We would have 9 days to explore the most beautiful parts of the country! I really wanted to show Christof the highlights and my favorite places but I also wanted to explore new spots and discover some hidden gems.

A lot of research went into this itinerary but I am really happy with how it turned out and I know you will have an incredible time in Iceland if you follow it!

DAY 1 – Pick up your vehicle & hike to the Fagradalsfjall volcano

TOTAL DRIVING TIME – 1 HOUR

Our flight landed in Keflavik around 3pm but a lot of international flights actually arrive already in the morning! This means you’ll have plenty of time to pick up your car or camper, get settled and start your adventure in Iceland by going on an incredible hike .

We started our trip by picking up our 4×4 camper from Happy Campers . They offer a free shuttle service from and to the airport which is only 5 minutes driving from their base.

If you’re going for a rental car instead you can choose a 4×4 with SunnyCars and you can also choose if you prefer to pick it up at the airport or if you want a shuttle service to bring you to the car depot. Rental prices greatly depend on when you book your car and how in advance. You can currently already rent a 4×4 for less than €120/day for August next year!

If you’re traveling with a camper your next point of action will be to go and get groceries. Grocery shopping in Iceland can become expensive if you don’t know where to go.

BONUS and Kronan are the cheapest grocery stores and there’s a giant BONUS only 3 minutes driving from Happy Campers.

After stocking up on enough food and drinks it’s time to start the very first adventure of the week! Hiking up towards a viewpoint over an active volcano!

STOP 1 – FAGRADALSFJALL VOLCANO

The Fagradalsfjall volcano has remained active ever since its eruption in March 2021 and until this day it is still spewing lava. The start of the Fagradalsfjall hike is close to Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

There are actually 3 different trails that lead to the volcano but only one of them has a good view over the active crater. While at the start of the eruption in March 2021 you had to follow hiking trail B, now  you have to follow hiking trail C which will lead you to two different viewpoints .

One of them is  viewpoint N  which offers a view over the massive lava field in the valley, the other one is  viewpoint L  which is higher up the mountain and will grant you a spectacular view over the crater.

The total hike distance to the viewpoint of the crater and back to the parking lot is 9km and you’ll probably spend 2 to 3 hours, depending on how many times you’ll stop to take photos.

📖 Fagradalsfjall Hiking Trail – How To Visit The Active Volcano in Grindavik Iceland

STOP 2 – BLUE LAGOON

If you still have some time left after your hike I highly recommend soaking and relaxing in the Blue Lagoon for a few hours.

It’s said that its water will nourish, heal and rejuvenate your mind and body. I really liked trying out one of their face masks and to indulge a little at the pool bar.

You can book your tickets for a visit to the Blue Lagoon here!

WHERE TO STAY

If you’re traveling by camper van the closest campsite is the one in  Grindavik . The facilities are clean and it’s only 15 minutes driving from the eruption site.

Price – 2000 ISK pp

• Northern Light Inn  – This cute cottage style hotel is located in Grindavik and only 15 minutes away from both the eruption site as the Blue Lagoon.
• Eyja Guldsmeden Hote l  – This stunning and originally decorated hotel is located right in the heart of Reykjavik and right next to its main shopping street.
• Hotel Borg by Keahotels  – This hotel screams lavish luxury but is also understated with it’s black, white and grey design. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want a more luxurious start or end of your trip.

DAY 2 – Whale Watching & Driving to the Icelandic Highlands

TOTAL DRIVING TIME – 4U35

Day 2 of this Iceland Summer road trip is another one filled with epic adventures! First mission of the day is to drive towards Reykjavik and get some breakfast at Braud .

STOP 1 – WHALE WATCHING IN REYKJAVIK

Afterwards it’s time to head down to the harbor to Elding Whale Watching from where our tour will start! The tour takes 3 hours in total and within that time you can spot dolphins, different whale species and puffins! It took around 2 hours before we spotted our first whale but in the end we even saw one jumping up right next to our boat! Unfortunately I was 1 second too slow to capture this moment but the experience in itself was unforgettable.

There are several ways to spot whales from Reykjavik and I’ve listed my favorite ones below:

• From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour
• Whale Watching from a luxury yacht
• Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat

STOP 2 – HAIFOSS

Haifoss is with its 122 meters  one of the highest waterfalls in Iceland  and it’s located close to the Hekla volcano, at the very edge of the Highlands.

To get there  you don’t have to drive on an official F-road  but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to be extremely careful if you’re not driving a 4×4. The gravel road leading up to the parking lot is very bumpy and your rental car is never insured against damage underneath the car. From the parking lot it’s only 5 minutes walking to reach one of the best viewpoints.

Haifoss is one of the most impressive and beautiful waterfalls in Iceland . And right next to it you’ll find another waterfall that only adds to the beauty of this canyon.

It’s often overlooked by tourists cause it’s a little more out of the way. When we were there, there were only a handful of other people.

💡 TIP  – You can also hike down into the canyon which I highly recommend. It will only add 1 hour to your total visiting time but you can actually get very close to Haifoss.

STOP 3 – SIGÖLDUGLJUFUR

Sigöldugljufur is one of those incredible hidden gems in Iceland that actually looks even better in real life! Located in the heart of the Highlands this canyon is filled with  some of the bluest water I have ever seen and has waterfalls as far as the eye can see .

You’ll first take the  F26  and then the  F208 . Both are unpaved gravel roads but the part right before you arrive at Sigöldugljufur is extremely bumpy. So be cautious when driving here.

STOP 4 – LJÓTIPOLLUR

Ljótipollur is  an explosion crater and crater lake  in the south Highlands. Its name means ‘Ugly Puddle’, despite the fact that it’s an incredible beautiful site. It is part of the Veiðavötn volcanic area.

STOP 5 – LANDMANNALAUGAR

We won’t be exploring Landmannalaugar yet this evening but we will spend the night here and prepare for an amazing hike tomorrow morning! To reach the Landmannalaugar camp site you’ll have to ford two small rivers but they’re not that deep and it goes pretty smooth. But this is one of the reasons why you need a 4×4 when driving in the Icelandic Highlands.

If you’re doing a self-drive tour of Iceland it’s best to stay at the  official Landmannalaugar campsite . It’s by far one of the most scenic campsites in entire Iceland and it’s also the starting point for all of the nearby hiking trails, including the Mount Blahnukur Hiking Trail .

The  Iceland Touring Association  (FÍ in Icelandic) offers visitors a hut for those planning to stay comfortably in Landmannalaugar. This  hut has a total capacity to fit up to 78 people  on a two-story cozy building. Don’t forget to bring your sleeping bag (and extra bedding if needed) as only a standard mattress will be provided at the hut.

Due to the increasingly high number of tourists each year, booking a spot in the mountain hut in advance has become mandatory.   You can find more information on all of the available mountain huts and their capacity here .

DAY 3 – Rainbow Mountains & Waterfalls

TOTAL DRIVING TIME – 3U50

Time to rise and shine early because today is a very busy day! From going on an incredible hike to road tripping passed several of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland! This day is filled with fun adventures!

STOP 1 – HIKE MOUNT BLAHNUKUR

Landmannalaugar is without a doubt  one of the most beautiful regions in entire Iceland . It’s known for its rhyolite and rainbow colored mountains and as the starting point for the world famous Laugavegur Trail. The latter is a 4 day hike that will take you through the Highlands of Iceland and that ends at Thorsmork.

The colorful region can be found  nestled beside the raven-black Laugahraun lava field , a sweeping expanse of dried magma which originally formed in an eruption in 1477. Landmannalaugar is especially known for its natural geothermal hot springs, hence its name the  People’s Pools , and surrounding landscape.

The start of the hike is pretty straight forward and begins from the campground. All you have to do is follow the yellow arrows. You’ll soon end up in front of a black mountain, this is mount Blahnukur. The trail leading up to the top is rather steep but I promise you that the climb is so damn worth it!

The total hiking distance is 6.1km and will grant you a 360° view over this amazing area!

STOP 2 – VIK

Time to drive out of the Highlands again and continue this Iceland Summer road trip along the Icelandic ring road. The best road to take to get out of the Highlands from Landmannalaugar is F208. Vik is a small town on the South Coast of Iceland and the best view can be found high above it’s pretty red church.

STOP 3 – REYNISFJARA

Reynisfjara is  a beautiful coastline  made up completely of black sand, black pebbles, sea carvings and basalt columns. It’s the perfect place to take some cool photos but when you do please be mindful of the waves. These are sneaker waves and every year people die because they get caught and get pulled to the sea to drown.

So whatever you do, don’t go swimming or get even too close to these crazy waves.

💡 TIP – Watch your car doors when getting out of the car cause this. isone of the windiest places in entire Iceland!

STOP 4 – KVERNUFOSS

This is  one of those beautiful  hidden gems in Iceland  and one that you can easily get to with the right directions. Drive to the Skogar Museum where you can leave your car on the parking lot. On the right side of the museum you’ll see a fence and a little further there’s an iron ladder which you may use to go over it. All you have to do now is follow the trail that leads you into the canyon.

When we went we were the only ones there and it was such a refreshing experience compared to the crowds at both Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. Kvernufoss is also a waterfall where you can walk behind so better keep that rain coat on if you’re planning on doing so.

STOP 5 – SKOGAFOSS

Skógafoss is one of the widest waterfalls in Iceland and on a sunny day you can almost always see a single or double rainbow between 10am and 12pm. By the time you’ll get here it will already be early evening which means the big crowds have already left!

Make sure to also climb up the stairs next to Skogafoss to get an aerial view and close up view over this stunning waterfall.

STOP 6 – SELJALANDSFOSS

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most touristic and most visited places in Iceland but it’s a must visit if this is your first time visiting Iceland!

It’s right of the ring road and the parking lot is right in front of it so you pretty much can’t miss it. There’s also a camping site located just a little further down the road.

The good thing about this itinerary is that this is our last stop of the day and when we arrived around 8pm there was almost nobody else there.

There are several options to spend the night with your camper. You can stay at the campsite right next to Seljalandsfoss. Or you can already start driving back a little and spend the night at the campsite in front of Skogafoss. You can even drive all the way back to Vik if you’re up for it. The closer you get the Vik, the less long you’ll have to drive tomorrow morning to reach our next stop on this Iceland Summer road trip itinerary.

Price – 1600 ISK pp

💡 TIP – If you have an extra day and you enjoy hiking I highly recommend you to do the Skógá Trail . I had it marked for our own itinerary but in the end we didn’t have the time for it. This hike starts at the top of the Skogafoss waterfall and will lead you passed 28 more waterfalls!

• The Garage – Wake up surrounded by. themost beautiful scenery of mountains and waterfalls. The Garage Apartments are located right between Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss and the perfect place to spend the night.
• Hotel Kria – This modern hotel in Vik opened in 2018 and is a real treat thanks to its stunning location and its finger licking breakfast which is included in the price.
• Vik Cottages – If you’re looking for a cute and more quaint stay then you’ll love this place. The cottages provide a very secluded and private feel with remarkable mountain views. You also have access to the main property for breakfast and dining at the on-site restaurant. 

DAY 4 – Explore Thakgil & National Parks

TOTAL DRIVING TIME – 4 hours

Today we’ll be exploring a true hidden gem in Iceland ! And to do so it’s time to lace up those hiking boots again and if you have them bring your trekking poles as well. You may thank me later!

STOP 1 – THAKGIL

Thakgil, also known in Icelandic as  Þakgil , is a one of a kind place in the south of Iceland. Arriving here felt like a breath of fresh air after facing all of the crowded and more touristic places on the Ring Road close by.

Typical for Thakgil are the  steep, mossy walls  and the many canyons. And compared to the immensely popular Fjadragljufur canyon you can actually roam around freely here.

There are several beautiful hiking trails to be discovered in Thakgil . We completed one of them and it was amazing!

The Remundargil Loop is a 12.5km hiking trail that will take you through a canyon, alongside a ravine, in front of a waterfall and next to a glacier! It’s a pretty strenuous hike but totally worth the effort!

📖 The Best Thakgil Hiking Trail – Discover The Remundargil Canyon And Thakgil Campsite

STOP 2 – SVINAFELLSJOKUL GLACIER

This beautiful glacier is an absolute must visit! A short hiking trail will lead you straight towards it and in some parts you are standing right in front of it. Its icy blue color provides a beautiful contrast but when we were there a lot of the ice was also covered in black dust.

Apparently this happens when it hasn’t rained in a long time which definitely was the case this past Summer in Iceland. Nevertheless it’s a fun and easy place to explore!

STOP 3 – SVARTIFOSS

Svartifoss is one of those iconic waterfalls in Iceland that you simply have to see to believe.  It’s surrounded by rows and rows of basalt columns  and a true sight to behold!

When we visited Svartifoss we actually stayed at the nearby campsite  Skaftafell . From here the hiking trail starts towards Svartifoss and on your way there you’ll encounter two other waterfalls as well. The hike is 1.5km and goes up at a steady incline. At times it can. get a little steep but for most parts the ground is covered with hardened plastic to prevent you from slipping too much.

The last stop today is located right next to the Skaftaffel campground. It’s the ideal place to park your camper and spend the night!

Price – 1500 ISK pp

• Klettasel – This is the perfect place if you’re in need of some privacy. This modern villa is beautifully located and has 3 bedrooms so perfect if you’re traveling with a bigger family or a group of friends!
• Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon – This modern hotel is the perfect luxury escape and all of the suites are equipped with large panoramic windows.

DAY 5 – A Hidden Canyon, Ice & The Misty Mountain

TOTAL DRIVING TIME – 5U30

Today will be a lot of driving but every single location that you’ll visit today is epic as hell so it’s totally worth it. Then again, I believe everything in Iceland is totally worth it! Let’s start by going on a very secret hike to a very secret canyon!

STOP 1 – MULAGLJUFUR CANYON

There are some places in Iceland that seem too good to be true and the Múlagljúfur Canyon definitely is one of these. Imagine green mossy cliffs, birds flying through the mist, a canyon so deep that it could perfectly serve as a dragons lair and a waterfall coming straight out of a mountain. It’s not hard to see why this is  one of the best day hikes in Iceland !

In contrary to many other places in the south of Iceland  you won’t find a single sign leading you towards the Múlagljúfur Trail . All that’s there is a small gravel road to the left that will lead you to a small parking space. The turn off is only 5 minutes away from Fjallsarlon Glarcier Lagoon and if you have  Google Maps   mark this location . This is where you’ll find the gravel road that will lead ytou from the Ring Road to the start of the Múlagljúfur Hiking Trail.

The total hiking distance is 7.6km and it will take an average of 2 hours to complete the entire trail. But if you’re like me make it 3 hours cause I literally stopped every 5 minutes to take photos and ended up admiring the scenery for more than an hour.

📖 Hiking to Múlagljúfur Canyon – A Hidden Gem in Southern Iceland

STOP 2 – FJALLSARLON

This magnificent glacier is now one of my all time favorite places in entire Iceland!

Imagine this: you drive up to the parking lot to see it empty. You start a small hike up the hill and then you see it. A glacier so beautiful it actually brought tears to my eyes! I can’t emphasize enough on how magical this place actually is. It’s what I call: Iceland at it’s very best.

STOP 3 – GLACIER LAGOON

Jökulsárlón, also known as Glacier Lagoon is located close to Fjallsárlón but definitely worth a visit. It’s one of the top attractions in Southern Iceland and one of the most beautiful stops on this 12 day road trip around Iceland. 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.

STOP 4 – DIAMOND BEACH

You can find Diamond Beach right next to Jökulsárlón and this is where the ice washes up to the coastline. The icebergs against the black sand make for the perfect contrast and photograph opportunity. The amount of ice you find on this beach depends on how much ice has fallen off the glacier recently, the current  t ide 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 5 – VESTRAHORN

Our final stop of the day before we head to our next camp site is Vestrahorn, also known as  Stokksnes . It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset but you do have to be a bit lucky with the weather. Vestrahorn loves to cover itself in the clouds but it’s always worth it top wait some time cause in Iceland the weather can clear up very fast. The entrance fee is 800 ISK but it’s well worth it! You’ll get to see one of the most iconic mountains in entire Iceland and you get to visit a viking village, which was formerly used as a film set.

💡 TIP – This area of Iceland is often completely covered in clouds and so far I still haven’t seen the mountain in real life… and I’ve been three times. If you can’t see any mountain peaks at the entrance don’t bother paying 800 ISK cause you’ll end up seeing nothing.

STOP 6 – SEYDISFJORDUR

Seydisfjordur is often called one of the most beautiful towns in entire Iceland. It’s teeny tiny but it is indeed very beautiful and especially known for its rainbow street and light blue church.

💡 TIP – Have dinner at Kaffi Lára El Grillo Bar! Their spare ribs are to die for!

The Seydisfjordur Camping Site is your best option here. When we arrived we actually couldn’t really find the entrance of the camp site and being super tired we slept on the parking of the local grocery store :p. Not perfect but it also worked.

• Hotel Aldan – If you’re looking for a unique stay look no further! At Hotel Aldan you’ll stay in a former bank building and an old post office!
• Lónsleira Apartments – These cute apartments are located in the centre of Seydisfjordur and even come with an outside barbecue!

DAY 6 – Exploring the East Fjords & The Biggest Waterfall in Europe

TOTAL DRIVING TIME – 6U30

STOP 1 – KLIFBREKKUFOSS

Klifbrekkufoss was by far the biggest surprise to us! Tucked away in one of the Eastern fjords this beautiful waterfall completely blew us away.

The best part is that it’s actually super easy to reach! Simply drive down the road and park your car in the designated parking space. One thing you do have to keep in mind is that the top of the fjord can be extremely clouded and you’ll be driving through thick fog. So take it slow and be careful on your way down.

Klifbrekkufoss is absolutely stunning! It’s not necessarily the biggest waterfall in Iceland but all of the different layers make it look like something out of a fairytale.

STOP 2 – HENGIFOSS

When I first saw a photograph of Hengifoss I couldn’t believe my eyes. It looked like something from another planet. The waterfall cuts right through the mountain which is why you can clearly see the vibrant colors of all the different earth layers.

There’s a big parking lot at the bottom and a big part of the hiking trail is covered with hardened plastic. From the parking lot it’s a 2.5km hike and for your visit you have to calculate in 2 hours. On your way to Hengifoss you’ll first encounter another beautiful waterfall called Litlanesfoss.

STOP 3 – STUDLAGIL

The Studlagil canyon is one of Iceland’s latest discoveries cause a few years ago you couldn’t even see this canyon.

Unfortunately it’s also becoming more and more popular every single year! There are two parking lots but it’s only from the one on the East Side that you can access the canyon itself.

The other parking lot on the West Side will grant you access to a viewing platform.

From the East side parking lot, which is right next to a waterfall, it only takes the 40 minutes to reach the actual canyon!

STOP 4 – DETTIFOSS

Dettifoss certainly is impressive with it’s 100 meters width and it has the greatest volume of any waterfall in Europe (500 cubic meters of water pour down every second).  Therefore you can call it the most powerful waterfall in Europe ! It’s located about half an hour driving from the ring road and a little before lake Myvatn.  

You can actually visit Dettifoss from both sides! The Western parking lot is the most famous one and will grant you the view over this powerful waterfall that you can see below. From the East side the hike towards the waterfall is a little more adventurous but you can get a lot closer to it.

STOP 5 – SELFOSS

Selfoss is located in the North of Iceland and is actually  within walking distance from Dettifoss .

ust like with Dettifoss you can visit Selfoss from both sides. So far I’ve only visited the West side but I think the East side might be even a little more spectacular. After visiting Dettifoss simply follow the hiking trail back and instead. ofgoing to the parking lot keep on following. theriver until you reach Selfoss.

STOP 6 – LAKE MYVATN

The stunning lake Myvatn is a beautiful sight to behold and definitely worth a closer lake. However if you want to go swimming/soaking in hot water then this lake isn’t the option for you. Then you have to go to the  Myvatn Nature Baths . The spa is open all year round and it costs 5700 ISK to enter.

💡 TIP – Have dinner at Gamli Bærinn and order their signature burger! You won’t regret it!

You can stay at Camping Myvatn right next to the lake but I advise you to go a little higher up the hill and stay at Camping Hlid. The Northern part of Iceland goes hand in hand with an enormous amount of small flies in the Summer months.

It’s something I hadn’t experienced before cause the last time that I was here was in the Winter. Right next to. the lake chances are very high that you’ll be eaten alive by these small flies.

• Icelandair Hotel Myvatn – This hotel is located right next to lake Myvatn and is the perfect place to add a touch of luxury to your trip! Make sure to have a drink in their cocktail bar.
• Hotel Laxa – This modern hotel offers both standard rooms and lake view rooms. With comfortable minimalistic rooms and delicious breakfast included, Hotel Laxa is sure to meet your needs for a satisfying stay in the Myvatn area.

DAY 7 – The Best Waterfalls & Kerlingarfjöll

TOTAL DRIVE TIME – 8U15

I know what you’re thinking… Are you freaking kidding me with that driving time???!! I know, it’s a little extreme for one day and if you’re really not up for it you can skip the stop at the Kolugljufur Canyon and save yourself 2 hours of driving.

STOP 1 – GODAFOSS

Welcome to Godafoss, otherwise known as  the waterfall of the Gods . And honestly, it’s not hard to see why! Godafoss is the waterfall that keeps on giving due to its grandeur.

Godafoss can also be visited from both sides which I highly recommend doing. And unlike with Dettifoss and Selfoss you don’t have to drive 1 hour to reach the other side. You can just cross a pedestrian bridge and you’re there! On the left side you can also hike down which you should definitely do as well!

STOP 2 – ALDEYJARFOSS

Aldeyjarfoss is located along F26, one of the most dangerous F-roads in entire Iceland. But not. to worry, the part leading towards this particular waterfall is still okay and doesn’t contain any river crossings. It is however very rocky and bumpy and may only be reached with a 4×4. There’s a small parking lot and from there you simply hike down to the waterfall.

The waterfall is surrounded by the black columns look absolutely insane and if you’re very lucky you’ll even see a small pool at the bottom. When I was there it had been too dry the last couple of weeks but otherwise it’s definitely worth checking out.

STOP 3 – KOLUGLJUFUR

This gorgeous canyon is hidden away from the ring road and doesn’t even require a 4×4 to get to. On the other side you’ll see a 2 drop waterfall that especially during sunrise creates the most magical view.  

Kolugljúfur is only 20 minutes driving from the ring road and there’s a parking lot on both sides which are connected by a small bridge that you can drive over.

STOP 4 – KERLINGARFJOLL

Kerlingarfjöll is  one of the most precious natural attractions  in Iceland and is located in the central Highlands. It’s part of an active volcanic system and is home to one of Iceland’s most  impressive geothermal areas .

The hills are a brown, nearly orange color and also made out of  rhyolite , the same substance as the mountains in Landmannalaugar. It’s this rhyolite that gives them this rusty look and in between, the hills are sprinkled with vivid colors of blue, green, red and yellow. Then add the massive amount of steam coming straight from the ground and the bubbling hot springs spread throughout the area and you know you’ll be in for a treat.

Kerlingarfjöll is accessible via road F35, also called the  Kjölur Route  or Kjalvegur, from both North and South Iceland. The F35 is  one of the best maintained F-roads on the entire island  and from where you should drive inland totally depends on your itinerary.

There’s not a single river crossing along the entire F35 and only the last part that leads to the Kerinlingarfjöll Mountain Resort and the Hveradalir Parking is very bumpy and rocky.

📖 How To Visit Kerlingarfjöll And The Hveradalir Geothermal Area In One Day

The most convenient place to stay for your visit to the Hveradalir Geothermal Area is the  Kerlingarfjöll Mountain   Resort .

At Kerlingarfjoll they have a new building with 20 double rooms with made up beds and each room has a private WC and shower. Then there are 10 smaller chalets, each with one to four rooms, which they rent out for made up beds accommodation only. 

The campsite is large, nesting on natural grounds at the banks of the Ásgarðsá river. Guests staying in the sleeping bag facilities or the camp site have access to a kitchen facilities. The camping ground is for tents and Caravans.

You’ll have access to WC and cold water.  You don’t have to reserve or book at the campsite in advance . Simply show up, have a good time and enjoy the scenery in Kerlingarfjoll .

If you don’t wish to stay here but you want to be in close proximity to the site you can choose one of these hotels in the south of Iceland below.

DAY 8 – Golden Circle

TOTAL DRIVE TIME – 4u20

This last day we’ll slowly make our way back to the Reykjanes peninsula but first it’s time to visit the most beautiful places on the Golden Circle.

STOP 1 – GULLFOSS

Gullfoss is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland but also one of the most touristic ones.  It’s the main stop on the Golden Circle  and over the years it’s only grown in popularity.

The trail towards the waterfall is short and fenced off. If you park at the visitors centre you’ll also have to walk down a couple flights of stairs. You can walk all the way up to the waterfall and at the end of the trail you can get a little closer. It’s not allowed to go on the grass.

STOP 2 – STROKKUR

Strokkur is  the biggest geyser in Iceland and it shoots up hot water every couple of minutes . It’s one of the top attractions on the Golden Circle so don’t expect to be here alone. It’s one of the most touristic places in entire Iceland and there’s even a big shop located right next to it. However it remains a spectacular site to see.

If you have time to spare, walk the surrounding landscape draped in steam with holes of boiling water rumbling at every turn. Be careful as you explore, as the water is clearly a dangerous temperature and should be left to admire from an appropriate distance. 

Close by you’ll find another geyser named Geysir. However, unlike its close neighbor Strokkur, Geysir has remained inactive.

STOP 3 – BRUARFOSS

This cute little waterfall might not be the biggest one out there in size but it sure makes up for it in beauty. The more unknown Brúarfoss is actually also located on the infamous Golden Circle but because it takes 1 hour of hiking to reach it not a lot of people visit it. So if you want to go  a little bit off the beaten path in Iceland  I highly recommend adding a visit to Brúarofss to your list!

All you have to do is drive to the  official parking lot  and start following the trail along the river. There’s room for a little over 25 cars so try to arrive a little earlier in the day. The hike from the parking lot to Brúarfoss is 3.5km one way and is mostly on flat terrain. It’s an easy hike that you can also enjoy if you’re traveling with younger children.

On the way to Brúarfoss you’ll come across two other waterfalls and  the water is as blue in real life  as in the photograph below. There’s a bridge that serves as a viewing platform and across the river you can even hike down and get a little closer to the waterfall.

STOP 4 – KERID CRATER

Kerid crater lake is a 3,000 year old volcanic crater lake in South Iceland on the Golden Circle route. The lake itself is relatively shallow, between 7 and 14 meters depending on rainfall and other factors. The water is a unique and strikingly vivid aquamarine shade of blue.

Take an easy hike around Kerid crater and enjoy the spectacular view!

STOP 5 – THINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK

Thingvellir National Park is our last stop on the Golden Circle and it’s an incredible place to visit if it’s your first time in Iceland. You can park your car at the  Öxarárfoss parking lot  and start walking from there. It was named  a UNESCO World Heritage Site  and marks the location of Iceland’s first parliament. But what makes this place truly unique is it’s s geography.

Thingvellir National Park is the site of  a great rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet . The plates are pulled ever so slightly apart more and more each year creating the  Silfra fissure , an area perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts. 

💡  FUN FACT  – Thingvellir National Park served as the backdrop for one of the more famous scenes in Game of Thrones where Littlefinger escorts Sansa to the Vale.

Depending on what time your flight is the next day you’ll either drop off the camper this evening or the next day.

If you’re only flying back in the evening you can even go and explore a little more the next morning!

DAY 9 – Fly Home

Depending on the time of your flight you can add a visit to the Sky Lagoon on your last day in the morning since they also have storage space for suitcases. However if you’re flying back to Belgium your flight will be at 7am in the morning.

🛣Iceland Road Trip Tips

Here you can find some useful tips that will ensure you have the best time on your road trip in Iceland.

• Always have snacks on hand  – Often there isn’t a place to eat in plane sight, especially when you’re driving through the more rural parts of Iceland. Make sure you don’t go hungry during one of your hikes. I would even go as far that you buy your snacks at home and put them in your suitcase to save some money at the grocery store.
• Mind your car doors when you open them  – The wind in Iceland can be brutal at times and it wouldn’t be the first time a car door flies off due to strong wind gusts. The image below show which way is best to park in case of strong winds.

• Bring your camera  – I am not exaggerating when I say that there’s a beautiful photo opportunity every 100 meter in Iceland. Make sure to bring your camera to capture this one of a lifetime trip! If you need some inspiration you can read exactly  what’s in my camera bag .
• Bring dryer sheets  – After sleeping and spending a lot of time in a camper van it can start to smell after a while which is completely normal. If you put a dryer sheet between the sofa it will always smell like fresh laundry.

💳 Currency & ATM’s in Iceland

The official currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Krona (ISK) and €1 equals ISK147. It’s not necessary to take out much cash upon your arrival cause you can pay nearly everywhere with your credit card of debit card.

📚 More Iceland Blog Posts

I have visited the land of ice and fire 3 times in 3 years and I loved adventuring and driving around the country.  On my blog you can find a ton of free resources to help you plan the perfect trip to this beautiful c ountry.

• The 12 Most Unique And Cool Places To Stay In Iceland
• 12 Best Tours In Iceland
• 13 Crazy Beautiful Hidden Gems in Iceland
• 15 Very Best Day Hikes In Iceland (Map Included)
• 7 Best Places To Visit In The Highlands In Iceland – A Complete Travel Guide
• Hiking to Múlagljúfur Canyon – A Hidden Gem in Southern Iceland
• The 21 Most Beautiful Waterfalls In Iceland By Region
• 2022 Fagradalsfjall Hiking Trail – How To Visit The Active Volcano in Grindavik Iceland
• The Ultimate 2 Week Iceland Winter Ring Road Itinerary – Plan The Perfect Iceland Road Trip
• 10 Reasons Why You Have To Visit Iceland in Summer
• The Best Thakgil Hiking Trail – Discover The Remundargil Canyon And Thakgil Campsite
• The Best Hike In Landmannalaugar – The Mount Blahnukur Hiking Trail
• How To Visit Kerlingarfjöll And The Hveradalir Geothermal Area In One Day
• Travelling with Happy Campers: an honest review.

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Charlotte Lint is the founder, main photographer and writer of Charlies Wanderings . She has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing insightful hiking guides and creating unique and efficient travel itineraries . Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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The Ultimate 10 Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

Thundering waterfalls, soothing geothermal springs, glistening glaciers, and snowcapped peaks: these are just a few of the otherworldly things to see on a 10 day Iceland Ring Road trip itinerary!

Iceland’s landscapes absolutely blew us away: this magnificent island is home to some truly awe-inspiring scenery and wildlife.

Add in easily accessible adventure activities like hiking on a glacier, snorkeling between two continents , and horseback riding through magnificent landscapes, and you have a recipe for a destination that truly deserves the moniker “once in a lifetime experience” (until you get tempted into booking your next trip back, anyway).

Planning to spend 10 days in Iceland and want to conquer the full (and iconic) Iceland Ring Road (technically named Route 1)?

I won’t lie–it’s an ambitious plan, and you’ll be exhausted by the end.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

But it is doable (especially with the help of Iceland’s famous midnight sun), and we’ll show you exactly how to plan your itinerary for Iceland’s Ring Road to ensure you can make the most of your 10 day trip.

Given the amount of information needed to plan 10 days in Iceland, this turned into one of the longest travel guides on our site!

Feel free to use the table of contents below to navigate as you plan your road trip in Iceland.

Here’s exactly how to have a blast driving the Ring Road in Iceland in 10 days!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

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We’ve structured this Iceland Ring Road itinerary as a counter-clockwise loop.

You’ll start with some of Iceland’s most iconic attractions, like the Golden Circle and South Coast, before exploring the less-touristed north and east of the country.

At the end, you’ll loop back around and take a minor detour from the Ring Road to experience the gorgeous Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

For each day of the trip, we detail the top places to visit on the Ring Road (and nearby) that you’ll want to prioritize!

You can easily reverse this itinerary if you prefer–in fact, we actually drove it the opposite way–but we personally recommend getting the “wow” factor of Iceland’s postcard sights within the first few days.

We spent a lot of our road trip anticipating those views, and in retrospect, I wish we had done them first before settling into the more leisurely pace of other areas.

It also would have been nice to experience fewer crowds as our Ring Road trip in Iceland wore on, rather than visiting the most crowded sights on our final days in the country.

Iceland in travel is extremely seasonal, so keep that in mind as you plan!

This Iceland Ring Road itinerary is designed for the summer months of June, July, and August.

We personally took the Iceland road trip that we designed this itinerary around over the course of the first 2 weeks of July and absolutely loved it.

Most of this itinerary, with the possible exception of seeing the puffins at Borgarfjörður Eystri, will still be viable in the shoulder season months of April, May, September, and October (excluding random weather events, which–this being Iceland–are always possible).

In the winter, though?

We’d recommend sticking to the western and southern parts of the coast (and definitely sign up for an ice cave tour for an incredibly unique winter experience)!

Basing yourself in Reykjavik in winter and using it as a base for day trips is a low-stress way to have some incredible adventures in Iceland.

Given that it’s an island in the middle of the Atlantic, it’s safe to say that just about everyone reading this Iceland blog post will need to rent a car for their road trip!

We highly recommend booking your rental car for Iceland as soon as you possibly can–essentially, as soon as you confirm your flight dates!

That is even more true if you happen to need an automatic car.

While Iceland is accustomed to plenty of visitors, it’s still a fairly small country at the end of the day, and there are only so many rental cars to go around.

Add in the extra complications from disruptions in the industry over the last couple of years, and you have a recipe for visitors who scramble at the last minute to get the cars they need for their Iceland Ring Road trips!

To compare prices and inclusions for several rental companies at once (including local outfits), we recommend searching through Discover Cars .

You don’t need a 4×4 for this Iceland itinerary, especially assuming you’re visiting in the summer, but if you think you’d like to visit some more rural spots located on Iceland’s F-roads (AKA 4×4 only roads), you certainly can.

We had a 4×4 for our road trip and made good use of it.

Check prices & shop rental cars for your Iceland road trip today!

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik and enjoy the city.

The thrill of landing in Reykjavik to kick off your 10 day Iceland trip is incredible!

This itinerary assumes that you are landing in the morning, as most international flights do.

Unlike many of our road trip itineraries here on Our Escape Clause, I recommend picking up your rental car right away if you’re getting it from the airport.

You’ll be able to park it overnight while spending one day in Reykjavik, and it will save you time doubling back (KEF Airport is about 45 minutes south of the capital, and out of the way to head back to), as well as serve as your transportation into the city.

If you happen to be picking up your car from a branch in the city, you can take a bus to the center.

Once you get into Reykjavik, shake off the jetlag and enjoy a day of sightseeing!

While it’s tempting to skip over the city and head right to Iceland’s famous natural beauty, it’s really worth spending a day getting to know the capital (and it will allow you to rest up before driving too far).

Here are a few things to do during your one day in Reykjavik!

Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church and climb the tower.

If you’ve seen photos of Reykjavik, you’ve no doubt seen photos of–and from–the remarkable Hallgrímskirkja Church.

Be sure to climb to the top for its impressive view of the city!

Consider visiting a museum.

From the National Museum of Iceland to the (in)famous Icelandic Phallological Museum, Reykjavik has some extremely memorable museums to choose from.

This itinerary for Iceland is fairly light on museums overall, but if you’re looking for an indoor activity and/or hoping to gain some context on the country before exploring it in-depth, a museum can make for an interesting introduction.

Stroll down the waterfront to see the Sun Voyager and Harpa Concert Hall.

These remarkable features of modern Reykjavik are definitely worth a look, and walking there will allow you to enjoy views of the city (possibly with a stop in one of the many excellent coffee shops you’ll find along the way).

… or go for a soak in Sky Lagoon.

Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon is much closer to the airport than to central Reykjavik, and partially for that reason, we’re saving it for the grand finale of this Iceland itinerary.

However, if your idea of the perfect first day in Iceland is a relaxing soak in a geothermal spring, consider checking out the incredible Sky Lagoon !

This newer destination is only a short drive from central Reykjavik and is undoubtedly the most laid-back way to spend your first day (or afternoon) in the country.

Book tickets to the Sky Lagoon today!

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

When deciding where to stay in Reykjavik, ideally you’ll want a hotel that is both in a walkable location and has parking on-site or available nearby.

We chose to stay in the popular 22 Hill House and had an excellent experience!

The crisp, clean room, excellent hotel breakfast, and location near the best things to do in Reykjavik made for a fantastic stay, and we’d definitely be happy to stay again.

Check rates & book your stay at 22 Hill House today!

Amount of driving as written.

About 45 minutes (50 kilometers), not including visiting Sky Lagoon .

Day 2: Explore the Golden Circle (and go snorkeling in Silfra Fissure).

As you head out of the city to start your road trip in Iceland, you won’t have to wait long to have a thrilling adventure!

Your first stop is less than an hour outside the city…

Snorkel between two continents.

Snorkeling Silfra Fissure inside Thingvellir National Park is–no hyperbole–one of the most unique things to do in Iceland!

Here, in a narrow fissure, you’ll float between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, and the experience is absolutely unforgettable!

It’s also–fair warning–a bit uncomfortable, but completely worth it.

We have a full guide to the experience here , and this is the tour we took and recommend!

Book your Silfra snorkeling experience today!

Check out more of Thingvellir National Park.

While Silfra fissure is located inside Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park, it’s far from the only thing to see in this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thingvellir National Park is known as the origin of Iceland’s culture and government and was the seat of Iceland’s government (with various levels of power) from 930 until the 18th century.

A scenic drive past Þingvallavatn lake is incredibly memorable, and with enough time, you could go for a short hike, stop at Hakið Visitor Center, and see Öxarárfoss Waterfall.

Marvel at the Geysir geothermal area (Haukadalur Valley).

As you’ve been planning your trip to Iceland, odds are that you’ve come across plenty of mentions of Geysir (a magnificent geyser) as one of the top spots to visit on the Golden Circle Route.

While this is technically true, unfortunately, you probably won’t see it at its most impressive: Geysir isn’t very active these days, and last erupted in 2016.

Luckily, Haukadalur Valley where it is located is home to plenty of other geysers, mud pots, and more that make it worth visiting in order to experience Iceland’s famous geothermal activity.

Admire the power of Gullfoss.

The first of several iconic waterfalls that you’ll visit on your Iceland road trip, Gullfoss is known for its beauty and power.

“Gullfoss” is translated to “Golden Waterfall”.

Depending on when you visit it, you may see that the water has taken on a distinct “gold” (or yellow, but that doesn’t sound as lovely) color.

Where to Stay on Day 2 of Your Iceland Road Trip

Ideally, we recommend traveling all the way to Vik on the South Coast to check into your next place to stay in Iceland.

We loved our stay at Hotel Vík í Mýrdal !

The layout of the hotel was slightly confusing, but the rooms were comfortable, the location and included breakfast excellent, and the customer service was lovely.

While driving all the way to Vik will mean doubling back a bit on Day 3 in order to visit Seljalandsfoss (or, if you have the energy, you can squeeze it into Day 2–more on that below), it will also allow you to spend 2 nights in one place.

Checking into and out of several hotels is an unavoidable part of driving the Ring Road in 10 days, but it’s best to stay 2 nights in one place when you can!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Vík í Mýrdal!

About 4.5 hours (300 kilometers).

Day 3: Visit the South Coast and some of Iceland’s most iconic beaches and waterfalls.

Iceland’s mesmerizing South Coast is where you’ll find some of its most famous attractions, from black sand beaches to iconic waterfalls like Skogafoss.

The furthest western point on this day as written is Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrafoss, which are about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Vik.

If you have the time and energy, you can shave off a small amount of driving if you move these waterfalls to the second day of this Iceland itinerary!

Here are the best stops on the third day of your Iceland road trip!

Explore the charming town of Vik.

The small town of Vik is one of the most popular places to stay in Iceland, and it deserves a bit of your attention!

Be sure to stop by the beautiful Vik Church, and admire the stunning views of the surrounding area (if you’re visiting during the summer, there are also plenty of lupines up here!).

You’ll also want to visit Dyrhólaey Peninsula to soak in its incredible views–and if you get lucky, spot some puffins.

Vik is also a great place to stock up on any groceries and gear you might want, as it’s the largest town you’ll be seeing for several days!

Stroll along Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

Visiting he famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of the best things to do in Vik –in fact, you’ll probably be able to walk there from where you’re staying–but it deserves a separate mention.

If you’ve seen photos of dramatic black sand beaches framed with basalt columns from Iceland… you’ve almost certainly seen photos of Reynisfjara.

Take your time to savor this gorgeous place with plenty of long walks. It’s truly something special.

That being said, absolutely do not try to enter the water here–the currents make it very dangerous.

Walk behind Seljalandsfoss.

Seljalandsfoss is incredibly famous, in large part because it’s one of only a few waterfalls in Iceland that you can walk behind!

If you visit on a sunny day, there’s also a very good chance that you’ll be treated to rainbows glittering near the falls as you do so.

Visiting Seljalandsfoss exceeded our high expectations!

That being said, prepare to step very carefully on the slippery ground and get wet from the mist.

You won’t get fully soaked, but be sure to protect your cameras and phones as you snap photos.

… and check out Gljufrafoss.

Accessed from the same parking lot as Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrafoss is not nearly as famous–but it is incredible.

Tucked into a small canyon, most of Gljufrafoss is hidden at first, which is part of its charm.

It’s well worth the short stroll to visit this remarkable waterfall, whether you duck into the canyon it hides in or not.

Visit the iconic Skogafoss.

Falling for a whopping 60 meters (197 feet), the powerful Skogafoss Waterfall is one of the most–if not the most–famous waterfalls in Iceland.

Here, you can walk right up to the base of a true natural wonder (and yes, you will absolutely get soaked while doing so).

If you want to admire Skogafoss from a different angle, you can even climb up the steps to the right of the waterfall and admire it from above!

Regardless of which angle you choose, there’s no doubt that time spent at Skogafoss is deeply memorable.

Optional: Explore the abandoned DC3 Plane Wreck.

Iceland’s famous abandoned plane wreck on the beach is quite the sight–but it requires a bit of a commitment to get to for what is essentially a photo op.

To visit, you’ll need to park about 2 miles from the wreck, and then walk (it’s–somewhat shockingly for Iceland–not a scenic walk), bike, or take a shuttle bus (assuming you’re visiting in the summer) to the plane and back.

Alternatively, you could book an ATV tour like this !

If the focus of your Iceland road trip is on natural beauty, this probably isn’t a must-see, but if you’re fascinated by the eerie view of the 1973 crash (it is striking), you can build it into your trip.

Where to Stay on Day 3 of Your Iceland Road Trip

Tonight, sleep in Vik for the second night in a row–that’s right, no need to repack and unpack again.

We loved and recommend staying at Hotel Vík í Mýrdal .

About 1 hour, 45 minutes (125 kilometers).

Day 4: Put the ice in Iceland with a glacier hike + explore the glacier lagoons.

As you continue to travel east along Iceland’s South Coast, you’ll soon be treated to several more of the best things to do on the Ring Road–including a glacier hike!

Peer into Fjadrargljufur Canyon (Fjaðrárgljúfur).

Your first stop of the day is the famous Fjadrargljufur Canyon–another one of Iceland’s iconic photo spots!

Like a surprising number of Iceland attractions, you’ll find it just off the Ring Road, with no hike required to reach it.

You can stroll along the top to enjoy the incredible views, but note that you can’t climb down as close to the edge as was once possible.

The closest edges of the canyon have been blocked off (no doubt for safety reasons), but the views from a bit further back are stunning all the same.

Optional: Take a short hike to Svartifoss.

Not everyone driving Iceland’s Ring Road in 10 days will want to build in a trip to Svartifoss–but those who do will love it!

Unlike the waterfalls yesterday, Svartifoss requires a fairly short hike (30-45 minutes each way) to reach.

Considering the next activity on this list, if you’re not an avid hiker, it may not be for you!

Svartifoss is stunning, though, framed by basalt columns on either side, and is located in Vatnajökull National Park, not far from where you’ll meet up with your glacier hiking group.

Hike on the largest glacier in Europe.

A glacier hike is one of the top Iceland bucket experiences on this itinerary and barring any physical limitations, you should absolutely prioritize it!

Skaftafell, located in a southwestern section of the gigantic Vatnajökull National Park, is a popular spot for glacier hikes and where you’re headed today.

Despite the name, a glacier hike in Iceland is a fairly tame activity, with tour groups being highly regulated and focused more on admiring the incredible landscape than physical exertion (if you want something more adrenaline-pumping, consider ice climbing !).

We took this 3-hour glacier hiking tour and absolutely adored it.

Fair warning, though: like at Silfra, a large chunk of the tour time is dedicated to sorting out gear, putting on crampons, etc.

If you want more time on the glacier, you may want to skip Svartifoss and opt for a 5-hour glacier hiking tour instead.

Book your glacier hike in Iceland today!

Where to Stay on Day 4 of Your Iceland Road Trip

We loved our stay at the extremely comfortable Fosshotel Nupar , which is a short drive west (ie, out of your way) from Skaftafell, and can highly recommend it.

In order to avoid doubling back, though, and to better position yourself for sightseeing tomorrow, we recommend instead staying at the also highly-rated Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon !

Check rates & book your stay at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon!

About 2.5 hours (180 kilometers).

Day 5: Marvel at glacier lagoons, puffins, and the East Fjords on your Iceland road trip.

As you reach the halfway point of your Iceland 10 day itinerary, it’s time for one of the longest days of driving included on this route.

There is a very, very good reason, though: puffins!

Here’s how to make the most of your fifth day in Iceland–and yes, you’ll want an early start.

Optional: Visit Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

Honestly, I’m quite hesitant to include Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon on this itinerary, simply because there is barely time for it!

However, this slightly-lesser-known glacier lagoon is gorgeous and right on your route, so if you get an early start and are hoping to see as much as possible, you can squeeze in a quick stop!

The lagoon itself is smaller than Jokusarlon (which you’ll visit next), but having such an impressive view of the glacier itself makes Fjallsarlon an incredible destination!

Admire Jokusarlon Glacier Lagoon (Jökulsárlón), and maybe take a boat ride.

If you’ve seen photos of Iceland’s incredible glacier lagoons, you’ve probably seen Jokusarlon.

This magnificent lagoon is dotted with icebergs that have broken off from Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier and are–slowly–making their way out to sea.

The lagoon is growing as the glacier continues to recede, and like many of Iceland’s natural attractions, will likely look quite different a few decades from now.

While admiring Jokusarlon from the shore is an incredible experience itself, if you’d like to get even closer to the magnificent icebergs, you can sign up for a zodiac boat tour of the lagoon while you’re there!

Soak in otherworldly views at Diamond Beach.

Located right across the street from Jokusarlon, the wildly photogenic Diamond Beach is where the icebergs from Jokusarlon eventually congregate at the end of their long journey out to sea.

Here, you can famously see chunks of ice–sparkling like diamonds, hence the name–nestled on the black sand, and even being jostled by the waves.

Diamond Beach is one of those special Iceland travel experiences that is probably unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!

Hang out with puffins Borgarfjörður Eystri.

Borgarfjörður Eystri is a long drive from your starting point this morning, nestled up in northeast Iceland.

It’s also one of the furthest places from the Ring Road on this Iceland itinerary… and it is so, so worth the effort.

At the edge of a fjord by the same name, the small village of Borgarfjörður Eystri plays host to 10,000 mated pairs of puffins from mid-April to mid-August each year.

It’s widely considered one of the best places to see puffins in Iceland, and visiting was one of the highlights of our Iceland road trip!

The drive there is fantastic as well, with magnificent scenery in all directions.

Once you arrive to view the puffins, you’ll be able to park and walk a short distance to a series of boardwalks and platforms (free of charge), where you’ll be able to admire the puffins to your heart’s content.

There are a couple of restaurants in town, as well, so it makes for a good place to grab dinner before continuing on.

Drive back to the Ring Road and head to Seydisfjordur (Seyðisfjörður).

Known for its picturesque location on one of Iceland’s eastern fjords, its whimsical rainbow street, and its historic 19th-century wooden buildings, Seydisfjordur is a fantastic place to base yourself in Iceland for a night!

The drive from your puffin-watching extravaganza to Seydisfjordur will bring you back much closer to the Ring Road once again, with plenty of waterfalls, glaciers, and more to admire along the way.

Where to Stay on Day 5 of Your Iceland Road Trip

We had a comfortable stay at the cozy Media Luna Guesthouse in Seydisfjordur and would have no problem recommending it based on availability.

However, we’d also love to stay in one of the traditional wooden houses in Seydisfjordur!

They were sold out for our trip, but when we return, we’d love to check into the gorgeous Við Lónið Guesthouse (which also happens to be one of the highest-rated guesthouses in town).

Check rates & book your stay in Seydisfjordur!

About 6.5 hours (450 kilometers).

Day 6: Drive the southern edge of the Diamond Circle to Myvtan.

On day 6 of your Iceland Ring Road trip itinerary, you’ll start working your way back west across the country, this time exploring the north.

Along the way, you’ll visit a few–but not all–of the sights clustered around Iceland’s northern “Diamond Circle” route.

Enjoy the morning in Seydisfjordur.

Before heading west, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and stroll through the colorful town of Seydisfjodur.

Don’t miss the town’s famous Rainbow Street!

(Not that you’re likely to–the town is quite small).

There’s also a grocery store in Seydisfjordur where you can restock food for the drive if you like.

Explore Stuðlagil Canyon.

The wildly beautiful Stuðlagil Canyon is exactly the sort of destination that Iceland is famous for: striking, unexpected, and absolutely gorgeous.

Here, the mesmerizing turquoise river is framed by soaring basalt columns, for incredible contrast.

It’s a bit of a pain to get there–if the photos don’t move you, consider skipping it–but we loved our visit and were so glad to have visited.

You can visit either the west side (for a view from above) or the east side (to approach the river).

We recommend following these directions .

Stare in awe at Dettifoss and Selfoss.

Dettifoss (often called the most powerful waterfall in Europe) and Selfoss (its more elegant counterpart), are two of the most popular stops on the Diamond Circle.

Selfoss is beautiful, but in the context of just how many beautiful waterfalls there are in Iceland, it’s the powerful Dettifoss that makes these waterfalls worth going out of your way to visit.

The only word I can use to describe Dettifoss is mesmerizing: it’s simply hard to look away from.

To visit, you can choose to visit the west or east side of the falls. We picked the west (and more popular) side.

It’s about a 2.5-kilometer walk round-trip to visit both falls.

While these are undoubtedly among the top waterfall destinations in Iceland, visiting will add over an hour to your drive today–so if you’re feeling burned out, this might be a good place to pass on.

Stroll through the Namafjall Geothermal Area.

Bubbling mudpots, brilliant colors, and a landscape unlike most others on this planet: the Namafjall Geothermal Area is located right off of the Ring Road/Route 1, and is a great, quick stop during your 10 day Iceland vacation!

… and you’ll want it to be quick, too!

The smell of sulfur is incredibly strong here, and not particularly pleasant.

Where to Stay on Day 6 of Your Iceland Road Trip

Modern, spacious, and boasting an absolutely fantastic breakfast spread, we adored our stay at Hótel Laxá and would happily rebook when visiting Myvatn again.

Check rates & book your stay at Hótel Laxá!

About 4 hours, 45 minutes (315 kilometers).

Day 7: Soak in the Myvtan Nature Baths and take a whale watching tour.

After several days in a row of long drives and packed schedules, today is designed to be slower-paced… for the most part.

The day’s schedule will also see you driving almost completely around Lake Myvatn, offering up stunning views and side stops along the way.

Have a long, relaxing soak in the Myvatn Nature Baths.

After plenty of active sightseeing, it’s time to relax.

Head to the Myvatn Nature Baths for a long, steamy soak in a geothermal spring, complete with views of the Hverjfall volcano crater and Lake Myvatn.

Often called the “Blue Lagoon of the North”, you’ll find a cafe on-site and not much of a reason to leave for at least a couple of hours.

Book your tickets for the Myvatn Nature Baths today!

Admire the power of Godafoss.

Gorgeous Godafoss is located just off of Route 1, an easy stop as you drive the Ring Road from Myvatn to Akureyri.

Curved like a horseshoe and absolutely stunning, Godafoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland!

Take a whale watching tour from Akureyri.

A whopping 11 species of whale call the water around Iceland home, and the north part of the island is the best place to see them!

Set out from Akureyri for a magnificent whale-watching excursion .

In the summer, boats leave as late as 8:30 PM, making whale-watching easy to fit into your busy itinerary for Iceland’s Ring Road.

Book your whale watching excursion in Akureyri today!

Where to Stay on Day 7 of Your Iceland Road Trip

We had a very comfortable stay at Lava Apartments & Rooms in Akureyri!

Here, we enjoyed the benefit of free parking on-site while also being in the center of town, within walking distance of plenty of shops and restaurants.

Some options also come with kitchens.

Check rates & book your stay at Lava Apartments & Rooms!

About 1 hour, 30 minutes (110 kilometers).

Day 8: Ride a unique Icelandic horse and learn local history.

Today begins with a very memorable ride and will end with the final (very) long drive of your trip!

To fuel up, grab a delicious brunch at one of Akureyri’s many trendy cafes before getting started.

We can heartily recommend the brunch at Cafe Berlin !

Ride an Icelandic horse and experience the unique “tölt” for yourself!

Small, fluffy, and utterly charming, Icelandic horses are a unique breed that is perfect for a ride through some of the world’s most stunning scenery!

Icelandic horses famously have 5 gaits rather than 3 or 4, and most visitors will be able to experience the “tölt”–think of it as a smoother form of a trot–during their ride.

We adore riding horses wherever we go in the world, but whether you love to ride or are hoping to try it out for the first time, Iceland is a fantastic place to do so.

There are many wonderful farms throughout the country, but we can’t recommend Polar Hestar near Akureyri enough.

Our ride with them was one of the most memorable trail rides of my life, and one of our absolute favorite Iceland travel experiences.

Learn some Icelandic history at Old Farmhouse Laufas (Turf House).

Less than 30 minutes north of Akureyri, you’ll find a fascinating example of Iceland’s traditional turf houses!

While the current building (which you can explore the interior of) dates to the 19th century, the site has been occupied for around 1000 years.

It’s a fascinating peek into traditional Icelandic culture and well worth a visit if you have time to add it to your itinerary for Iceland in 10 days.

Check hours and entrance information here .

Drive to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

After an exciting horseback ride and a dose of Icelandic history, it’s time for the last long drive of your trip.

Head to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula–more on where to stop below–in order to position yourself well for exploring more of the best things to do in Iceland tomorrow.

You likely won’t have the time or energy for more detours at this point, but if you do, the fishing village of Stykkishólmur is considered one of the most picturesque in Iceland and would be a fun place to grab dinner.

Where to Stay on Day 8 of Your Iceland Road Trip

Essentially, your goal for tonight is to find a comfortable place to stay that is very close to Kirkfujell.

The areas Grundarfjordur and Stykkishólmur (the surrounding area, not necessarily the center, as it’s out of your way) are good places to look.

This charming guesthouse , as well as this one , are both excellent options that are extremely highly rated.

Check rates & book your stay on the Snaefellsness Peninsula today!

About 5 hours, 45 minutes (440 kilometers).

Day 9: Round out your trip by exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature”, and is home to some magnificent sights, including the famous Kirkjufellsfoss, arguably Iceland’s most famous photo spot.

It’s technically not on the Ring Road, but it’s special enough to warrant being featured during your road trip in Iceland regardless!

I’ve outlined the top don’t-miss spots below, others you may want to add on include Bjarnarfoss, Budakirkja (a charming Icelandic church), and Ytri Tunga (also known as Seal Beach).

As you drive, you’ll be treated to plenty of gorgeous views of Snæfellsjökull, the peninsula’s scenic glacier.

Snap photos at the Iceland icons of Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss.

Kirkjufell (the mountain) and Kirkjufellsfoss (the waterfall) pictured here are famous, in large part, because of how they fit together.

While both sights are beautiful individually, it’s really the combination of them both in one frame that has caused this to explode into being one of the most famous places to photograph in Iceland!

While climbing the mountain requires quite a bit of skill and isn’t done by the average visitor, it’s extremely easy to walk the short path from the road to this incredible view on an Iceland road trip!

Drive to the end of the world and visit the Svortuloft and Ondverdarnes Lighthouses.

As you drive out to the Svortuloft and Ondverdarnes Lighthouses on the northwest corner of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, you may feel like you’re approaching the end of the world!

While these spots are fairly popular, many travelers skip them in favor of a more direct route.

All that means, though, is that the views are even more rewarding for those who make the trek.

Along the way, you’ll also pass the golden Skarðsvík Beach, which is also worth a stop!

While both lighthouses are striking and feature excellent views from the surrounding area, the sea cliffs next to Svortuloft made it our personal favorite of the two.

Stroll along Djúpalónssandur.

One of Iceland’s most famous black sand beaches, this was once a popular fishing port.

Today, you can either admire the beach from the viewpoint above or walk through the black sand to the water’s edge.

Pay a visit to Arnarstapi and the Arnarstapi Cliffs.

The small village of Arnarstapi is home to some of western Iceland’s most scenic (and easily accessible) coastline.

From basalt columns to arches to dramatic beaches to swoopng birds, this cliff walk is a can’t-miss stop on an Iceland road trip.

Technically, the cliff walk runs for 2.5 kilometers each way, from Arnarstapi to Hellnar, but most people stick around the Arnarstapi section, which is considered the most scenic area.

Plus, you may be in Hellnar soon enough anyway…

Where to Stay on Day 9 of Your Iceland Road Trip

If your flight doesn’t leave until late tomorrow night or the following morning, you may want to simply stay on the southern side of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula!

If so, the Fosshotel Hellnar is a popular, well-reviewed option just a short drive from Arnarstapi.

It also belongs to the same brand as the hotel from the Skaftafell/Jokusarlon area!

Alternatively, if your flight leaves earlier in the day tomorrow, you may want to sleep by the airport– this is the airport hotel we stayed in (more on that below).

Check rates & book your stay at Fosshotel Hellnar!

About 2 hours (95 kilometers).

Day 10: Say goodbye to Iceland with a soak in the Blue Lagoon.

On the final day of your Iceland road trip, your priorities are simple: get close to KEF Airport with enough time to spare so that you’re not stressed… and experience one of the top attractions in Iceland.

Relax at the Blue Lagoon.

Iceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon is one of its most famous landmarks, and since it’s much closer to the KEF Airport than it is to Reykjavik, it makes the ideal way to say goodbye to Iceland.

Whether you have 2 hours or 6, the Blue Lagoon is worth your time–especially as you’re no doubt exhausted after spending a full 10 days road tripping Iceland.

You can also add on extras, such as massages, if you feel like treating yourself before heading home.

Be sure to book your tickets well in advance, especially during peak season.

The Blue Lagoon is known to sell out!

Book your tickets to the Blue Lagoon today!

Where to Stay on Day 10 of Your Iceland Road Trip

If you need a hotel room by the airport as you prepare to say goodbye to your 10 days in Iceland, we stayed in and can recommend the Aurora Hotel at KEF .

The interior is a bit dated, but it’s comfortable enough for one night and–most importantly–is within walking distance of both the terminal and car rental offices.

In other words, you can turn in your rental car once you check in to the hotel, and not have to worry about handling it before your flight.

The covenience can’t be beaten, and we’d happily use this hotel again.

Check rates & book your stay at Aurora Hotel KEF today!

About 3.5 hours (260 kilometers) if you’re starting from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

While this 10 days in Iceland itinerary is jampacked as it is, if you’re lucky enough to have 2 weeks or more to explore Iceland, you’ll find plenty of other adventures to enjoy!

Here are a few more incredible places to visit in Iceland that would be excellent additions to a Ring Road trip.

Located on the north coast of Iceland, charming Husavik is known as the Whale Capital of Iceland (and now, for being featured in the 2019 Netflix movie, Eurovision).

We chose to include a whale watching tour from Akureyri on this Iceland itinerary instead of Husavik, as Akureyri is located on the Ring Road and it’s hard to justify any more extra driving on this already long road trip!

However, Husavik is a delightful place to visit and is about 45 minutes (57 kilometers) north of Myvatn, so if you’d like to swap something else on this itinerary out in order to visit Husavik, you absolutely can.

Book your Husavik whale watching tour today!

The Highlands

By definition, an Iceland Ring Road itinerary skips the center of the country.

If you have time to venture further inland, though, that’s where you’ll find the wild and wonderful highlands.

The highlands are primarily accessible during the summer months, and you will need either a 4×4 vehicle or a guided tour in order to access them.

With one day to explore, incredible Landmannalaugar, with its rainbow-colored hills, is a popular destination.

Fagradalsfjall Volcano

In 2021, Iceland gained a new tourist attraction with the incredible eruption of the Fagradalsfjall Volcano, which lasted a whopping 6+ months.

Though the eruption is now officially over , the volcano–thanks in part to its proximity to Reykjavik–is still a very popular addition to Iceland itineraries.

Several guided tours have popped up to help visitors find the best (and safest) hikes and viewpoints at this new destination. This tour is among the most popular.

Book your visit to the Fagradalsfjall Volcano today!

Glymur Waterfall

At almost 7 kilometers long, hiking the Glymur Waterfall Trail is the longest hike mentioned in this Iceland travel guide!

However, it’s also gorgeous and the second-tallest waterfall in Iceland!

If you have 3-4 hours to spare (plus a bit of drive time) when traveling from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula back to Reykjavik/KEF, hiking Glymur Waterfall is an incredibly memorable stop on your last day in Iceland.

Aldeyjarfoss

Aldeyjarfoss is about an hour and a half south of Myvatn, and while I couldn’t find a way to justify the drive when putting together this 10 day Iceland itinerary, we absolutely loved visiting!

This remote waterfall is far less crowded than many of Iceland’s most popular spots and is incredibly striking.

Note that–especially if you want to visit the lesser-visited side pictured here–you will need a 4×4.

Less is more.

Driving the full Ring Road in Iceland in 10 days is doable… but extremely ambitious.

Essentially, it’s the minimum amount of time that most travel writers would recommend driving the full loop in, as opposed to focusing on the easier-to-access South Coast and Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

As a result, I’ve written this 10 day Iceland itinerary for an ambitious and excited traveler who is hoping to see it all–which means taking advantage of Iceland’s midnight sun in the summer in order to maximize sightseeing.

Long story short? You’ll be exhausted by the end.

If there are certain stops that don’t appeal to you, or days where driving an extra 40 minutes to look at your 50th waterfall just doesn’t sound as good as an early night, don’t sweat it!

Seeing absolutely all of the best places to visit in Iceland in one trip is never going to be doable (many of them aren’t even listed here due to time!), so focus on what you can do rather than on what you can’t squeeze in.

Keep an eye on the clock.

This is essential when road tripping Iceland in the summer.

It is very, very easy to look down at the dashboard and suddenly realize that you’re visiting a waterfall at 9:30 PM when you planned to check into your hotel by then!

The photo of Seljalandsfoss with bright blue skies behind it that is at the top of this blog post?

We snapped it at 8:37 PM.

Be flexible with what you see.

Weather not cooperating? Tours sold out?

Run out of time and have to skip a few Iceland road trip stops?

Don’t worry too much!

A simple reality of traveling in Iceland is that its remarkable environment is remarkably unpredictable, and things can certainly go sideways!

The good news is that there’s always another otherwordly viewpoint or magnificent waterfall around the next corner, so you’re essentially guaranteed to have plenty of wonderful and unforgettable experiences while traveling Iceland.

Bring a sleep mask.

… And make it a good one!

I’ll be honest: we found the midnight sun very daunting during our summer road trip in Iceland.

It’s beautiful, of course, and incredibly cool to photograph waterfalls at 9:30 PM… but when it’s time to go to sleep, that same daylight can be painful!

And, unfortunately, the fantastic metal shutters that are popular throughout much of Europe and block out all light while sleeping aren’t easy to find in Iceland (which definitely took us by surprise!).

Jeremy loved this sleep mask , though he said he wishes it was slightly thicker, and I used this handy one that doesn’t press against your eyelids.

Keep an eye on the weather.

Iceland’s weather is famously intense, and it is absolutely worth planning your 10 days in Iceland around!

If you have a clear morning and a chance of clouds in the afternoon… get up as early as possible to make the most of what clear weather you have.

Don’t plan on getting anywhere fast.

Long driving distances combined with sublime scenery and a temptation to pull over to take photos or admire the view every 800 feet or so does not result in a very efficient road trip!

It does result in a very memorable one, though.

How’s the driving?

In the summer, driving the Ring Road in Iceland is quite simple for confident drivers!

The Ring Road, while popular, is also very long–so while you may deal with some congestion around iconic attractions, you’ll also spend plenty of time amongst wide open spaces.

You will absolutely want a GPS for navigation, though.

How far in advance should you book your Iceland Ring Road trip?

As soon as you possibly can!

Iceland contends with 3 distinct challenges–for lack of a better word–that all add up to a fairly competitive tourism environment where you want to claim your rental car, lodging, and even tours as soon as possible.

First, it’s extremely popular!

Second, even with a flurry of construction as its fame has risen in the last couple of decades, Iceland is ultimately a fairly rural place outside of its major cities, and there’s only so much accommodation to go around.

And third, this extremely popular place condenses the vast majority of its tourism into a very short time period, as the summer weather for a “traditional” Iceland trip only sticks around so long.

All of this adds up to visitors having a much more fun–and far less stressful–trip to Iceland if they’re able to plan ahead.

Is driving the Ring Road possible during winter in Iceland?

Technically it is, but it’s not recommended for travelers who aren’t a) used to driving in snowy, difficult conditions and b) very comfortable with unpredictability, as you never know when a storm will hit.

For most visitors taking their first trip to Iceland, it’s best to stick with the summer months for driving Iceland’s Ring Road.

Should you drive the Iceland Ring Road clockwise or counterclockwise?

Both are wonderful options, but we recommend doing it counterclockwise!

… And we say that because we actually did it clockwise and (mildly) regretted it.

It would’ve been nice to kick off our road trip in Iceland with some of its most iconic sights, rather than spending 10+ days anticipating them before arriving!

Plus, by starting with the most popular destinations, you’ll slowly lose the crowds as you make your way around the Ring Road, which certainly beats the alternative.

Try not to overthink this too much, though–it is a circle, after all.

Either way works!

Do you need a 4×4 to drive the Ring Road in Iceland?

No, you don’t!

In the summer, you can drive the full Ring Road, including all of its most iconic stops, without a 4×4.

That being said, if you want to visit some hidden gems and more offbeat spots, you may want to have one.

We had a 4×4 for our Iceland road trip and enjoyed having the extra freedom.

Don’t forget these essentials when packing for your 10 days in Iceland!

… But don’t worry if you forget something, either.

You’ll find well-stocked clothing and outdoor shops throughout your trip, particularly in Reykjavik, Vik, and Akureyri.

That being said, clothing and equipment in Iceland are–like virtually everything else in the country–very expensive, so it’s best to come prepared!

Travel Insurance  — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and an epic Iceland Ring Road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

We use and recommend  Safety Wing  for trips to Iceland.

Iceland Guidebook — It’s pretty rare that we choose to carry a paper guidebook these days, but Iceland was an exception!

Long, difficult-to-pronounce (for English speakers) names and attractions literally around every corner meant that having a guidebook with us as we explored came in handy!

We used Lonely Planet Iceland during our trip.

Travel Adaptors for Iceland — If you’re coming from outside of Europe (or from the UK), you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

We use these and have never had any issues.

Waterproof Jacket — A must in Iceland, for both practical and photography reasons!

I love this yellow rainjacket that I’ve had for a few years, and Jeremy loves his Marmot waterproof jacket .

Layers — Layers are key when visiting Iceland, even in the summer!

We had exceptionally good weather during our trip, and most days I still stuck with a long-sleeve shirt or light sweater, with a jacket to throw over it.

Sometimes I also included my favorite Northface fleece that has been with me for 10 years and counting.

Comfortable Walking Shoes — Depending on exactly what you plan to do during your 10 days in Iceland, you may want a pair of comfortable walking shoes and a pair of hiking boots.

I mostly stuck with my trusty Ugg Kesey Motorcycle Boots , which are waterproof, warm, and extremely comfortable. I’ve been wearing them for years!

For activities like glacier hiking, I switched to hiking boots .

Bathing Suit — When thinking about bundling up with plenty of layers in July, it’s easy to forget that you’ll also want a bathing suit with you in Iceland!

Waterproof Pants — While we didn’t use these as much as we feared we would need to (we got very lucky with the weather on our July trip!), they came in very handy for our glacier hike and were very comfortable.

I used these pants , and Jeremy wore these .

Eye Mask — We mentioned this above, but getting good sleep when contending with the midnight sun was a challenge for us during our time driving Iceland’s Ring Road.

You will absolutely want a good sleep mask like this with you during your summer trip to Iceland.

Sea-Bands + Non-Drowsy Dramamine — If you get motion sickness like me, you’ll definitely want to come prepared for any and all boat rides in Iceland (like whale watching tours, for instance).

Binoculars — Iceland is home to all sorts of delightful creatures, including a wide variety of birds (like puffins!) and, of course, whales.

Binoculars are an inexpensive and easy addition to your Iceland packing list, and they’ll greatly enhance your trip to the coast!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

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.

5 thoughts on “The Ultimate 10 Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary”

Thank you very much. I like your informative blog.

Thank you for the information. This is wonderful and we plan on using this as a guide on our upcoming trip. One question – we would like to include Husavik in our trip. We were thinking of not doing the horse back riding – where would you recommend fitting Husavik into the trip? Thanks!

You can do a fairly simple 1:1 swap for Husavik instead of the horseback riding excursion.

If you’re heading up to Husavik, I’d also recommend doing your whale-watching tour from there instead of Akureyri. 🙂

Everyone ALWAYS says make reservations as early as possible. So when did you make yours and was that date too late for anything? What date is really late for summer visits? thanks

The problem with exact parameters is that it’s different every year depending on how many visitors there are, the week you’re going, etc, and also how strict your budget and hotel requirements are. Iceland has built more hotels over the last decade, but it has also gotten much more popular over the same time period (with the obvious 2020 exception).

We booked our trip a couple of months in advance and had an amazing time, but we did have to compromise on a few places to stay, including staying in the countryside vs in Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, for example. Vik is also known for selling out, and we didn’t get our first choice of hotel there, though the one we stayed in ended up being a solid option as well.

I’d recommend securing your rental car first, especially if you plan to rent an automatic, and then sketch your trip out from there.

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The 8 most spectacular road trips in Iceland

Mar 4, 2024 • 10 min read

Head out on four wheels to explore Iceland's incredible landscapes © janiecbros / Getty Images

Driving in Iceland is a dreamy experience, and having your own set of wheels offers the freedom to explore the country at your own pace.

Picture the scene: you’re gliding along a road curling around a snowy hillside. On your right, a steep, rocky slope, the top shrouded in fog. On your left, the surf beats against vertical cliffs, with sea birds circling overhead. Before you, the crystal blue waters of yet another fjord stretch out to the horizon. 

There’s no better feeling than heading out and seeing where the road takes you. But, should you require a little more structure to your overland odyssey, we’ve selected eight unforgettable Iceland road trips to get you started.

1. Hit the road on the Blue Diamond tourist route

Best road trip for volcanic activity Keflavík International Airport  –  Keflavík International Airport; 75 – 115km (50 – 70 miles); 1 day

From Keflavík International Airport, the Blue Diamond tourist route loops around the otherworldly lava landscapes of Reykjanes Peninsula , through quiet seaside villages and the wondrous Reykjanes Geopark, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2015.

Nowhere else are the borders between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates as visible. All around are signs of geothermal and volcanic activity: the milky blue waters of the  Blue Lagoon steam into the sky, while  Geldingadalir (which erupted in 2021 and again in August 2022, but is now inactive) continues to wow visitors. Check safety alerts before you visit. 

There are many more discoveries to be made on the route, including the windswept shore by Reykjanes lighthouse and Kleifarvatn Lake (home, according to legend, to a wormlike monster the size of a whale), and there are myriad hiking trails.

Planning tip: You can do a round trip in less than a day, but it’s worth staying for a few days to fully explore the region.

2. Take Road 435 as an alternative to the Golden Circle

Best road trip in summer Reykjavík – Reykjavík; approx 225km (140 miles), 1 day

For a different take on the Golden Circle – Iceland’s most popular day tour – try Nesjavallaleið (Road 435), which is open in the summer. It slings through moss-covered lava landscapes and up and down steep hills, with a breathtaking view of Þingvallavatn Lake in the distance. Along the road are quite a few marked hiking trails, beckoning road trippers to temporarily ditch the car and get up close and personal with the stunning landscape.

Puffs of steam are the telltale sign that you’re approaching Nesjavallavirkjum Power Plant and the exclusive ION Adventure Hotel . The road continues along placid lakes, including Úlfljótsvatn with a lonely church on its banks. You drive through a summer house region – where city dwellers go for weekend breaks – and then onto the main road past the perfectly circular Kerið crater lake, one of the obligatory Golden Circle stops.

After gawking at Gullfoss waterfall and spying Geysir (from which all other geysers take their name), you can drive back via Þingvellir National Park with a quick visit to the curious cave houses of Laugarvatnshellar.

Local tip: Bookworms should also consider making a stop at Gljúfrasteinn Laxness Museum in Mosfellsdalur. The museum is the former home of prominent Icelandic writer Halldór Laxness, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955.

3. Drive through the remote East Fjords

Best road trip to explore Iceland's maritime heritage Egilsstaðir – Egilsstaðir; approx 820km (510 miles), 5 days

Set up camp in Egilsstaðir and you’ll be in prime position to uncover the magical East Fjords. First, visit the village of Vopnafjörður, home to Selárlaug, a swimming pool on the banks of a salmon-filled river, which is also popular for fishing. In summer, you could cross the spectacular mountain pass Hellisheiði eystri (Road 917) to get here – but with its narrow and steep gravel road, it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Regardless, take the easy way back (Road 85 and Road 1) to Borgarfjörður eystri, and recharge at the village of Bakkagerði with a hotel and spa, puffin-watching house and popular music festival Bræðslan, held in July. It’s also a good base for hiking in the stunning surroundings, with the trek to Stórurð, a turquoise lake enclaved by massive boulders, a particularly popular route.

You must return to Egilsstaðir before moving on to the next fjords on the route: Eskifjörður and Neskaupstaður. Here, the maritime heritage of this region is honored in elegantly renovated historic houses: Randulfssjóhús in Eskifjörður and Beituskúrinn in Neskaupstaður, both of which now function as excellent, atmospheric restaurants. Drive back through Fáskrúðsfjörður to Stöðvarfjörður, where Petra’s Stone Collection museum amazes, showcasing the sheer variety of minerals that can be found in the mountains in the country’s east. From here, it’s a straight run back to Egilsstaðir for the last time – remember to watch out for reindeer!

4. See the Westfjords by road and ferry

Best scenic road trip Reykjavík – Reykjavík; approx 765km (475 miles)

On the way to the Westfjord from Reykjavík , you’ll drive through the rural region of Dalir. Here, dairy farm Erpsstaðir makes for a great first pitstop on the journey, where you can learn about traditional farming life and sample the homemade cheeses and other treats. There are also a number of historical sites nearby, including Eiríksstaðir, a living museum about life in the Viking era, and Guðrúnarlaug , the replica of the pool where the beautiful heroine of Laxdæla saga (one of the famous medieval Icelandic sagas) used to bathe.

Leaving Dalir in the rearview mirror, the first Westfjordian town you’ll reach is Reykhólar, home to Sjávarböðin, a spa specializing in seaweed baths (said to have all manner of healing properties). From here, the drive along the peninsula’s southern coast on steep gravel roads is both awe-inspiring and borderline scary, but your reward is a stroll on red-sand beach Rauðasandur and the view from Látrabjarg, Iceland’s westernmost point. Látrabjarg is also a haven for birdlife, with thousands of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills and guillemots, nesting in the cliffs.

You can take the ferry from Brjánslækur back, via Flatey , an idyllic island that seems to be frozen in time. It used to be the bustling center of the Breiðafjörður islands, but today, only seven people live there year-round. From here, the ferry takes you onwards to Stykkishólmur on Snæfellsnes , entering via a beautiful harbor overlooked by a distant lighthouse. It’s a view that might tempt you to stay a while.

Local tip:  If you have time to explore Stykkishólmur, check out the Library of Water , a modern art museum, and sample the locally sourced seafood on offer at Sjávarpakkhúsið .

5. Cruise around the otherworldly Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Best road trip for varied landscapes Start/end – Reykjavík; approx 440km (275 miles)

In clear weather, you can see the alluring ice cap Snæfellsjökull from Reykjavík. The drive there is an adventure with ever-changing landscapes. You’ll find sand and pebble beaches, volcanoes, a glacier and rhyolite mountains, lava fields and grassy terrain, caves, bird-filled cliffs and waterfalls.

The peninsula’s southern side is graced by the white-sand beach Löngufjörur, a hot spot for horseback riding, the otherworldly lava landscape around Búðir and the many wonders of Snæfellsjökull National Park .

On the northern side, there are charming fishing villages and Kirkjufell , one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains – particularly popular when the northern lights are out . Although it’s possible to do a whirlwind tour of Snæfellsnes in a day, you can easily spend a few: hiking, bird watching, sailing or simply taking in the views of the immense glacier.

6. Drive beyond the Ring Road on the ancient Kjölur route

Best road trip for Iceland's interior  Reykjavík – Reykjavík; approx 1378km (856 miles), at least a week

Spice up your Ring Road (Route 1) adventure by cutting through the barren interior of the country. Road 35, which splinters off from Route 1 past Gullfoss waterfall , continues along the ancient Kjölur route between glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull. It’s an F-road, so it requires a 4WD vehicle and is only open in the summer, but it is not as difficult as some of the other highland routes (for example, there are no river crossings.)

Around the halfway point is Hveravellir , an oasis of sorts in the snowy desert landscape, with a lodge, a natural pool for bathing and a multicolor geothermal area with marked hiking trails, including to Kerlingarfjöll mountains. You enter the Ring Road again about an hour’s drive from Akureyri , the “capital” of the north, which is great for catching up on some culture, visiting galleries or having a night on the town (with at least three bars to choose from!).

The Ring Road will take you from fjord to fjord, past eerie mountains and into quiet seaside villages. Fáskrúðsfjörður is known for a museum that honors the legacy of French sailors, located inside the beautifully renovated French hospital. In Breiðdalsvík drop by microbrewery Beljandi (named after a waterfall by the same name) and in Djúpivogur take a look at the granite egg sculptures in Gleðivík by renowned artist Sigurður Guðmundsson.

7. Explore local legends on the Diamond Circle

Best road trip of north Iceland Húsavík – Húsavík; approx 250km (155 miles), 2 days

North Iceland’s answer to the Golden Circle is the Diamond Circle . Make your base in the whale-watching town of Húsavík and head east to Ásbyrgi at the northern realms of Vatnajökull National Park . The horseshoe-shaped canyon is characterized by vertical cliffs – walk to the top of Eyjan for an amazing view of the sand beaches to the north and the North Atlantic. This is gyrfalcon territory, the largest falcon in the world, so keep an eye out for the majestic raptors.

With its lovely lake, lava fields, steaming fumaroles and bubbling hot springs, the Mývatn area is an obligatory stop on the drive back to Húsavík. Take time to marvel at the mighty Goðafoss waterfall in Skjálfandafljót. It’s called the “waterfall of the gods” because legend has it that the lawspeaker (a role in ancient Scandinavian society where someone is entrusted to recite the law) Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his pagan sculptures in the falls after deciding that Icelanders should convert to Christianity in 1000 CE. Further upstream is Aldeyjarfoss, another spectacular waterfall surrounded by columnar basalt.

Planning tip: Don’t forget to reserve some time for Húsavík itself, a bustling town with interesting museums and fabulous seafood restaurants. Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths are perched up on Húsavíurhöfði next to a yellow lighthouse with an unobstructed view of the whale-watching boats on Skjálfandi Bay.

8. Take a leisurely drive along the Arctic Coast Way

Best coastal road trip for taking your sweet time Hvammstangi – Bakkafjörður; approx 900km (560 miles), 2 weeks

Designed for slow travel, the Arctic Coast Way slings along Iceland’s northern coastline, encompassing sleepy villages, six islands and amazing natural sites few people get to see. The route starts at the seal-watching town Hvammstangi in northwest Iceland and ends in windblown Bakkafjörður in the northeast. Along the way, drivers will encounter dramatic views, lonely lighthouses and some interesting stories.

At Þrístapar, you can learn about the gruesome fate of Agnes Magnúsdóttir, the heroine of Hannah Kent’s Burial Rites who was the last woman executed in Iceland. At Brimslóð in Blönduós, there’s the option to go foraging for your dinner, and in Skagaströnd have your fortune told at the Museum of Þórdís the Prophetess. In summer, the midnight sun bounces off the ocean surface, and in winter, the northern lights dance across the night sky in between blinking stars – far from light pollution.

Other interesting stops include Hvítserkur sea stack, the massive Arctic Henge in Raufarhöfn, an ancient stone monument inspired by Norse mythology, and the gannet colony at Stóri Karl on Langanes.

Planning tip: Take your time to explore on foot, and book whale-watching, kayaking or diving tours for a different perspective of this wild coastal region.

This article was first published October 2020 and updated March 2024

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Iceland road trip: The ultimate summer planning guide

Embarking on an Iceland road trip in summer is an exhilarating adventure that promises breathtaking landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and a true connection with nature.

In this comprehensive guide, I will provide you with all the information and advice necessary to start planning a successful journey.

From determining the best time to visit and deciding how many days to stay, to choosing the best route and exploring the must-see places, I’ll cover every aspect to ensure your road trip through Iceland is unforgettable.

This article contains links to products and services that I think you will find useful. I may earn a commission on any purchases you make at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more  HERE

How to get to Iceland

The main gateway to Iceland is Keflavík International Airport , situated approximately 50 kilometres southwest of Reykjavík, the capital city. Keflavík Airport serves as a prominent layover point for many US-based airlines connecting the United States and Europe.

Ferry from Hirtshals to Seyðisfjörður

Another way to arrive in Iceland is by ferry from Hirtshals, Denmark. This option offers a unique and scenic journey, particularly if you wish to bring your own vehicle.

The ferry route from Hirtshals to Iceland takes approximately two days and includes a stop at the Faroe Islands before reaching the final destination of Seyðisfjörður in the east of Iceland. While the duration may seem long, the advantage of this option is the ability to bring your car from Europe, providing freedom and convenience for further exploration within Iceland .

The route is operated by Smyril Line and their vessel, MS Norröna, operates on this route. It runs from March to November through to Iceland.

How to get to REykjavík from the airport

Upon arrival at Keflavík Airport, several transportation options are available to reach Reykjavík:

Bus Service – A regular bus service operates between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes, providing a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation. Bus tickets can be purchased at the airport or online in advance. There are a number of companies running this service but FlyBus has always been reliable for me.

Car Rental – If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, car rental companies are conveniently located either in the arrivals hall or in a separate building accessible via a short shuttle bus ride. Renting a car allows you to explore Iceland at your own pace and access more remote destinations.

Taxi Service – For those seeking a hassle-free transfer, a 24-hour taxi service is available at Keflavík Airport. Taxis provide a convenient option if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a direct and comfortable journey to your accommodation in Reykjavík. The taxi rank is just outside the main arrivals hall.

Best time to visit Iceland

When it comes to planning your Icelandic road trip, choosing the right time to visit is crucial. The summer months offer several advantages, including milder temperatures and extended daylight hours. However, it’s important to consider the increased tourist activity during this period.

Summer weather conditions in Iceland are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Be prepared for changeable weather and rain showers. There may even be snow. To make the most of your journey, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May-June or August-September, when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are thinner.

How many days do I need for a road trip to Iceland?

The duration of your road trip will depend on your interests, the attractions you wish to visit, and the pace at which you prefer to travel. To fully experience the diverse landscapes and attractions that Iceland has to offer, I recommend staying for a minimum of seven days. However, if time allows, a two-week trip will provide a more comprehensive exploration. Here are some suggested itineraries based on different trip lengths:

7-day itinerary:

• Reykjavik: Explore the vibrant capital city and its surrounding attractions.
• Golden Circle: Visit Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• South Coast : Discover Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, black sand beaches, and the charming village of Vík.
• Skaftafell National Park and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Witness the stunning beauty of glaciers and icebergs.

10-day itinerary (in addition to the 7-day itinerary):

• East Fjords: Explore the picturesque fjords, fishing villages, and encounter unique wildlife .
• Mývatn: Discover the geothermal wonders, volcanic landscapes, and stunning Lake Mývatn.
• Akureyri: Visit the vibrant “Capital of the North” and enjoy its cultural attractions.

14-day itinerary (in addition to the 10-day itinerary if you don’t decide to stay anywhere more than a day):

• Westfjords : Venture into the remote and rugged landscapes of the Westfjords, renowned for their natural beauty and tranquillity.
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Experience the magical landscapes, lava fields , and the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier.

What is the best route for a road trip in Iceland?

Iceland offers an array of captivating routes, each with its own unique charm. The most popular and iconic route is the Ring Road (Route 1), which encircles the island. This approximately 1,332-kilometer (828-mile) road provides access to many of Iceland’s stunning attractions. However, consider exploring additional routes to truly experience the country’s diversity:

• Arctic Coast Way : This road trip will take you along the remote and wild north coast of Iceland.
• South Coast Route : A picturesque drive along the southern coast, featuring dramatic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier tongues.
• Diamond Circle Route: A loop in the north that includes highlights like Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, and Ásbyrgi Canyon.
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula Route: Explore the mystical landscapes of Snæfellsnes Peninsula, home to Kirkjufell mountain and Snæfellsjökull glacier.

What are the must-see places on a road trip in Iceland?

Iceland is blessed with extraordinary natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Everyone has different things that they really want to see so this is a difficult question to answer, however here are some must-see places to include in your itinerary:

• Þingvellir National Park : A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical significance and stunning landscapes, including the Silfra Fissure.
• Geysir Geothermal Area : Witness the spouting geysers, including the famous Strokkur, and soak in the natural hot springs.
• Gullfoss Waterfall: Marvel at the powerful cascades of this iconic waterfall, located in the Golden Circle.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon : Experience the ethereal beauty of floating icebergs and take a boat tour to get up close to the glacier.
• Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls: Encounter the mesmerizing beauty of these majestic waterfalls along the South Coast.
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Explore the striking black sand beach, basalt sea stacks, and towering cliffs near Vík.
• Lake Mývatn: Discover this geothermal wonderland featuring unique volcanic formations, craters, and bubbling mud pots.

Flexibility is the key to travelling and exploring Iceland . The weather and road conditions change so rapidly that it is impossible to stick to a plan 100% of the time. You may also find somewhere unexpected and not want to go anywhere else.

What are the activities that are unique to Iceland?

There are so many natural and free attractions in Iceland that you really don’t need to pay for any experiences on your Iceland road trip. However, if you need an adrenaline rush then think about the following:

• Hiking on a glacier
• Seeing an erupting volcano
• Exploring ice caves (limited to Katla Ice Cave or the man-made ‘Into the Glacier’ in the summer)
• Heading into the Arctic Circle
• Whale watching
• Discovering puffins in the wild
• Fishing for Icelandic char
• Seeing Arctic foxes in the wild

Travel considerations when planning your Iceland trip

Iceland is huge and the roads are not great. On the map, it looks like you can travel easily from one place to the next but this isn’t always the case. The drive from Ring Road 1 to Dreki is about 100km on the map, but roads F905 and F910 , take over four hours of 4WD each way. Add to that the need to stop in lay-by’s for photographs and breaks and the time slips away before you realise. I have found that 200km in a day with stops was about my limit. This worked out to be about 3 hours of driving maximum but filled a whole day with stops.

What are the Road Conditions like in Iceland?

I can’t emphasise this enough! The roads beyond Route 1 are rough gravel in places and take much longer to drive than you think. There may not be any traffic jams or other cars for that matter, but everything takes much longer than on motorways and good roads.

It is also worth having a plan B for each day. The weather may be against you reaching a destination or a road may be closed. Always check the conditions at the beginning of the day on road.is .

What car should I rent for a road trip to Iceland?

The hire car that you choose for your Iceland road trip will determine how comfortable and how adventurous your trip will become. If you are planning to venture beyond the Golden Circle or Snæfellsnes Peninsula then opting for 4WD will be your best option. Even the main roads in the north are rough and while you can do it in 2WD it is slow and uncomfortable.

Your hire company will give you advice on where you can and can’t take the vehicle. Listen carefully! If you ford a river and get stuck they are not going to help you out and your insurance is not going to pay.

The hire companies all have a range of insurance options. Only you will know what you want to take out and what is within your budget. I took everything offered, knowing that we had no excess and every disaster was covered other than getting stuck in a river. Read the small print and ensure you know what you are buying.

Also, think about how much stuff you have with you. All of the hire companies give details of bag space in the boot and some will hire roof boxes. Have a careful think when planning about how much space you really need to make the journey a comfortable experience.

Around Reykjavík fuel is easy, but as you head further east and north fuel becomes more of an issue. You really need to plan where you are going to fuel up. This is especially the case if you are going to the Highlands or Westfjords where there are large distances between fuel stations. Get into the habit of topping up and keeping an eye on your mileage.

When you refuel some pumps are automated. This may mean that money is taken from your credit card twice – once when you start the transaction for the amount you request and then with the final amount. The first payment will be refunded but it may take up to 30 days. The amount is usually 10,000ISK (about £60), which soon adds up. Make sure you have space on your credit card or enough funds on a debit card to accommodate this charge for a month.

Food on an Iceland road trip

In a similar way to fuel, food in Iceland needs to be planned. In the northeast and north-west shops are limited and it may be a day or two before you reach a town with a shop. Planning ahead is essential.

There are a number of supermarket chains in Iceland. Bonus with the pink pig is best known, however, I found that Netto actually had more choices and better prices. In Reykjavík, there is a Costco which can be used by any Costco cardholder.

The price of food in Iceland is more than anywhere else in Europe but similar to the UK. This is because of the import logistics. It is however not extortionate and with planning and a simple meal plan, it is not prohibitive.

Unless you are staying in a hotel with a restaurant, I would suggest that self-catering is the most cost-efficient way to eat on a road trip in Iceland. Restaurants can be expensive although the quality is always good. In the more remote areas finding a restaurant can be difficult so planning is essential.

Where can I stay on a road trip around Iceland?

So this is up to you and your budget! Google reviews and TripAdvisor are your friends in this process as things change, owners change and from one season to the next hotels, Airbnb’s and campsites can change.

Camping in Iceland

The check-in system was similar for most sites. Arrive and pick your spot and someone appears to take payment at some point in the evening or early morning. Other sites have a reception and some just have an honesty box (make sure you have some cash!).

Some campsites get busy in the summer so it is worth arriving in the early afternoon and getting set up before heading out for the evening. This is a good option as attractions are quieter but the short nights give you lots of time to explore.

Campervans in Iceland are a good halfway house between camping and a solid building. Research the company you are hiring from and read reviews. In the summer it is not as important, but in winter months check for insulation and heaters as well as the conditions that it will tolerate.

Airbnb or Guesthouses

AirBnB and hotels or guesthouses are the final options. Some are good, some are amazing and others are just plain awful. Look at what they provide and what you need. At the end of the day, it is just one night on a road trip before you move on and my thought is always so long as it is clean and welcoming everything else is a bonus. You may find your perfect holiday rental in Iceland with CozyCozy where they will provide options without the hunt or gamble of booking sites.

Route planning your Iceland Road Trip

This is the final part of the planning process. Have a look at the routes of tour companies, what they offer and the timings and use this to plan. However, this is not planning as you would imagine.

In the south where it is busy explore the Golden Circle in reverse or start your day ahead of the buses. Lots of the tours visit Geysir first, make sure you are there before they can possibly reach it from Reykjavík or make it the final stop of the day when the buses have all left. If the tours in the area all go clockwise then plan your route in an anti-clockwise direction.

As you head away from the popular areas this becomes less of a consideration and planning is determined more by fuel, food and accommodation.

Always have a plan B and a list of ‘must see’ and ‘less important’ stops that you can add in or remove depending on how your day is going. Weather plays a big part in any Iceland road trip and this needs to be factored in every day.

It is also worth putting in some short days . It is an intense experience and sometimes you just need to stop. Get to accommodation early and take time to have a swim or just catch up on a book. You cannot travel continually without burning out eventually. Far better to plan a break than have it forced upon you.

Taking your route on the road

After all the planning it is essential that you stick to your plan. Make sure the routes are saved somewhere that you can access. Google Maps is fine, but in some areas, there is no internet access even with mobile data. Make sure you have a paper backup of the entire route.

After months of planning it almost feels like you have walked the entire route from your living room, but once you are on the road, the planning will come into its own and hopefully reduce the stress. Being flexible is key. The weather and roads may mean changes are needed but this is a stress-free change as it is hopefully all planned.

My experiences in Iceland

This simple guide is based on my own experiences planning a 28-day road trip around Iceland followed by two return visits. For the road trip, I hired a car and camped with some Airbnb nights when the weather beat my tent. This trip covered over 4500km of roads and almost every town and larger village. The second trip was based in Reykjavík, tent camping for the whole time and using just public transport and tours. The final trip (so far!) was hotel based in winter and included flights to the Westfjords region. This trip exposed me to the harsh reality of Iceland in winter and how different the experience can be.

Final tips for a summer road trip in Iceland

Iceland is a land of natural beauty, and there’s no better way to experience it than on a road trip. The best time to go on an Iceland road trip is during the summer when the weather is mild and the days are long.

Once you’ve chosen your time of year, you’ll need to decide on your route. The Golden Circle is a popular choice, as it takes in some of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks, such as Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park . However, there are many other great routes to choose from, so you can tailor your trip to your interests.

No matter which route you choose, make sure to pack your essentials, including a good map, a camera , and plenty of warm clothes. You’ll also need to rent a car or book a tour, as public transportation in Iceland is limited.

Here are some additional tips for planning your Iceland road trip:

• Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re travelling during the peak season.
• Be prepared for the weather, which can change quickly in Iceland.
• Allow plenty of time for your trip, as there’s so much to see and do.
• Be respectful of the environment and leave no trace behind.

Planning a road trip to Iceland? Read all my  Iceland Travel Guides

I'm Suzanne the traveller and photographer behind Meandering Wild. With over 30 years of experience travelling to different corners of the world in search of wildlife and remote locations nearly all of the advice on this website is from my own exploring.

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7 Days in Iceland Itinerary – The Ultimate Summer Road Trip Guide

Last updated on June 26th, 2023 at 06:54 pm

Iceland is becoming popular with travelers at an exponential rate. Even that would be an understatement. And why not? The pristine beauty of this little country is out of this world. While some prefer private tours to see it in chunks and others spend several weeks exploring Iceland. We did a self-drive Iceland road trip in 7 days in the summer.  

After helping many friends plan their Iceland holidays, we have finally put together this useful 7 days Iceland itinerary based on our experiences.  Fair warning – this is a very lengthy but helpful post due to the depth of information we are covering. 

Note: While penning this guide we realized that there was way too much information to be shared. So, we have broken this up into 3 blog posts –

• 10 Useful Tips For Visiting Iceland
• 7-days Iceland itinerary (which is what you are reading now)
• Packing List for Iceland  

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Driving in Iceland

Are 7 days enough to see iceland, best time to visit iceland, what to pack for the iceland road trip, day 1: west iceland, day 2: golden circle, day 3: south iceland, day 4: southeast iceland, day 5: east iceland, day 6: north iceland, day 7: west iceland.

• End of Iceland Road Trip

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

Ring Road, also known as Route 1, runs around the entire island covering a total distance of approximately 1300 Kms. We drove around Iceland on the entire Ring Road in 7 days and returned our rental car with over 2000 Kms including several off-roading adventures. 🙂

TIP: We highly recommend that you rent a 4×4 vehicle . To get the best deal make sure you compare the prices for  car rentals in Iceland . 

Iceland is almost circular in shape and we chose to drive counter clockwise but you can easily do this in a clockwise direction heading up the west side of the island first. We recommend driving at your own pace here rather than taking organized tours, just saying. Here are some more  tips on driving in Iceland .

Before we dive into our Iceland itinerary, let’s answer a few basic questions to help you plan your trip.

In the summer, a week is just perfect to see the below-mentioned highlights in Iceland . However, you won’t have enough time for any long hikes along the way.

In winter, you’ll definitely need more days to do a full Iceland road trip.  However, there are some really cool adventures that you can only do by taking one of these Iceland winter tours (think ice-caving!).

If you have less than 7 days then consider driving only up to South Iceland and return back to Keflavík airport or Reykjavík at the end of your trip.

  TIP:   We have mentioned below where it makes the most sense to add extra days. But at the very least you will need 7 full days to complete this circle without rushing yourself.

The time of the year that you want to take your Iceland holidays will decide how many days you need. We visited Iceland at the end of May i.e. at the beginning of summer and experienced the “Midnight Sun,” which gave us more daylight to explore. We saw twilight for about two hours past midnight after which the sun rose again at around 3 am.  

FUN FACT: Midnight Sun is a natural phenomenon that occurs in places closest to the poles where in the summer months sun barely or never sets.   However, if you decide to go during winter months, you are in for incredible shows of Aurora Borealis or the Northern lights. 

The opposite happens in the winter months i.e. shorter days, longer nights, and less daylight. Also, in winter weather conditions, parts of Ring Road in the North and East could be closed.  

Our recommendation for driving around Iceland in 7 days would be from May-August. In other months you will need more days to cover it all.

Here are our suggestions for must-pack items for summer in Iceland:

• warm jacket
• waterproof jacket and pants
• scarf, gloves, warm hat
• hiking boots
• bathing suit
• packing cubes
• reusable water bottle
• sleep eye mask
• universal adapter

ELECTRONICS

• waterproof cases for phones and cameras
• portable charger
• extra camera batteries and memory cards

For more suggestions and details, see our full summer packing list for Iceland .

7-Day Iceland Itinerary

Here we go, detailed day by day itinerary –

We landed in the early hours of the morning with Play Air (lands 5am local time) from the US and headed straight to Blue Lagoon . Blue Lagoon, only 10 mins away from the airport, is a totally different experience than any other spa you can imagine. Going early in the morning helped us beat the crowds, it is a touristy place but totally worth it! 

Use the rest of your first day to settle in and explore the funky capital city, Reykjavík. There is a lot to do in Reykjavík city center such as,

• Hallgrimskirkja Church,
• Sólfarið (Sun Voyager) and
• Harpa Concert Hall  
• Restaurants & Bars on Laugavegur St. (we loved Lebowski Bar & Old Iceland Restaurant ) 
• Cafes in Reykjavík

If you have more time, there are a bunch of activities to do in Reykjavík such as whale watching, lava tube caving, helicopter rides, etc . You could also try the food tour in Reykjavík . 

ACCOMMODATION

We recommend staying closer to the city center within walking distance of Hallgrimskirkja Church and Laugavegur street where all the action happens. 

A few good options in this area are  Sandhotel ,  Fosshotel Reykjavik , Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel , and Old Charm Reykjavik Apartments ; the last two are more of an apartment style accommodation rather than a hotel.

Check out our captions in photos below to see what to do in Reykjavík.

Before jumping on the Ring Road, take a mini detour on day 2 and head to the famous Golden Circle in Iceland. Points of interest in Golden Circle are listed below, the ones we stopped at are highlighted in bold.

We wrote a separate blog post on  driving the Golden Circle if you want more details.

• Thingvellir National Park
• Silfra Snorkeling Tour  
• Geysir Geothermal Area
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Bruarfoss Waterfall (if skipping snorkeling then this is a great addition)

If you are snorkeling between the tectonic plates in Silfra then you end up spending at least half a day there. Hence it is a good idea to stay back this night in the Golden Circle. Our recommendation would be  Hotel Litli Geysir or Hotel Gullfoss . We stayed at Hotel Gullfoss and passed by Hotel Geysir, both of them are at a fantastic location. 

If you plan to skip snorkeling  then most likely you should be able to get ahead of the schedule past Kerid crater from day 3 below. In that case, any hotels in Selfoss should be a good spot to spend the night. We stayed in this amazing cabin in Selfoss (on another Iceland trip) which had a hot tub and cannot recommend this place enough – Cabin in Selfoss with hot tub.

Check out our captions in the photos below to read about the location.

This is the most exciting part of Iceland! Heading to beautiful South Iceland from Gullfoss. Don’t you worry if you happen to stop every 5 mins on this Iceland road trip, you won’t be the only one!  The best part about Iceland is not the final destinations but the drive itself. 

TIP: Do keep in mind though if you stop way too often then you might never make it around in 7 days  😉  

Points of interest highlighted in bold are the ones we stopped at. And I am really stretching it by listing them all in one day since we backtracked our way to cover the last 3 spots the next day. 

• Kerid Crater
• Gljúfrabúi/ Gljúfrafoss Waterfall (Hidden waterfall)
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Eyjafjallajökull Erupt (the volcano that erupted in 2010, we passed by it)
• Seljavallalaug pool (Seljavelli – the hidden free geothermal pool which might take some time to find) 
• Skogafoss Waterfall
• DC-3 Plane wreck site (SRK’s Gerua song filming location for Bollywood fans)
• Reynisfjara (Black Sand Beach)

2023 UPDATE: There is now a parking fee that you’ll have to pay to park at Sellfoss and Seljalandsfoss and pretty much at most touristy spots in Southern Iceland.

TIP: Definitely add those extra days in this part of Iceland! There are tons of great vistas, hikes, and adventure activities.

ACTIVITIES 

• Hiking on top of Skogafoss waterfall 
• Hiking to the US Navy plane crash site – 45 mins one-way hike with no elevation

TIP: There are no signs for the DC Plane Crash site but there is a small unpaved free parking lot on the side of the main road.  It was incredible to see an old rusting DC-3 US Navy plane which crashed 40 years ago still lying at the same spot in the middle of nowhere.

We recommend staying the night in or around the town of Vik. We stayed at  Hotel Edda Vik (now called Hotel Vik ). However, on our recent 2023 trip to Iceland we stayed in this gorgeous cottage very close to Vik – Cottage Vestri Petursey . We saw Northern lights straight outside this cabin. highly recommend this place, it’s very kid friendly too.

Other really nice recommendations for stay in this region are – Vik Cottages , Black Beach Suites , Hotel Katla (They have a nice outdoor hot tub which can be used for a small fee even if you don’t stay here),  Hotel Dyrholaey , Volcano Hotel , and  Hotel Skogafoss . We enjoyed a nice dinner with a great view of the waterfall at Hotel Skogafoss before heading to our hotel in Vik.

Another exciting day driving Southeast towards Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where you get to see floating glaciers from the parking lot itself. Points of interest on this stretch are listed below, in bold are the stops we took. Many tours start from the Lagoon’s parking lot. They now have food trucks and a small coffee & souvenir shop at the parking lot.

TIP:   If you want to experience the glaciers intimately then we recommend taking the  Glacier Lagoon boat tour .  

• Laufskálavarða 
• Fjaðrárgljúfur
• Skaftafell National Park  (Also called Vatnajökull National Park – Svartifoss Waterfall hike is very popular) – We skipped it!
• Jökulsárlón – Glacier Lagoon
• Diamond Beach (across the bridge from Glacier Lagoon)

FACT: Glacier Lagoon, however pretty, is an ugly reminder of Mother Earth’s trouble in paradise- as this lagoon keeps growing in size we keep losing our precious glaciers in the Arctic.

Locations in South and Southeast Iceland are most popular with tourists.  Lots of hiking and activities to do here, however, we could only accommodate the boat tour in our itinerary.

• Hiking in Skaftafell National Park  (Also called Vatnajökull National Park )
• Glacier Hiking Tour (open all year round) OR you could do a combined Glacier hiking + Ice Cave Tour
• Crystal Ice Cave Tours (Crystal Ice Caves tours only run until mid to end of April as it’s not safe in the summer time)
• Boat tours at Glacier Lagoon ( Amphibian boat tour open all year round, Zodiac boats only in summer)  
• ATV rides (around Skogafoss)
• Horse riding (near Black Sand Beach)

TIP: Spend extra days on this stretch of your Iceland road trip if you can.  

At this point, you really are in the middle of nowhere and there are very limited BnB’s and hotels in this area. We wanted to stay closest to the lagoon, but we didn’t get availability in the hotels we wanted including  Hali Country Hotel  and  Skyrhusid Guesthouse . Another place to stay is Hotel Skaftafell which is 45 mins north of the lagoon and just a few mins away from Skaftafell Visitors center.

We ended up staying at  Guesthouse Nypugardar , a lovely farmhouse, which is about 30 mins drive south of the lagoon. Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon  also looks like a nice modern alternative about 20 mins from the lagoon.

Continue driving due East – this is when you skip the tourist junction and come in contact with what I like to call ‘raw Iceland’. Town of Höfn and Stokksnes peninsula are a detour from Ring Road but if you have the time it’s worth taking that detour. Check out the famous Vestrahorn mountain in Stokksnes near Höfn.

TIP: Consider adding an extra day here if you want to spend more time in the peninsula.  

Ring Road cuts through this peninsula giving you a splendid view of Stokksnes for a few minutes. Town of Djupivogur can be a great alternate stopover for lunch if you want to skip Höfn, which is what we did. Points of interest on this stretch are listed below. 

• Stokksnes/ Vestrahorn
• Egilsstaðir (It’s a long unpaved scenic drive till here)

We did not list any activities here because this drive is insanely wild and in itself an attraction. In this stretch, Ring Road turns into a dirt road going up and down the mountains. It is an adventure to be the only car driving on several parts of Ring Road, which happens more often than not.

Spend the night in the biggest city in Eastern Iceland, Egilsstadir. Hotel Edda Egilsstadir or Hotel 1001 Nott are good options here.    

Not many people driving in Iceland make it this far North so this stretch was exceptionally exquisite to us. Heading North towards Akureyri which is the second-largest city in Iceland after Reykjavík was full of pleasant surprises  just like the South – more gigantic waterfalls, more hot springs and geysirs, more volcanic craters, geothermal spas.. you name it and North Iceland has its share.

Akureyri is a tiny city located on Eyjafjörður or Eyja Fjord, take out some time to explore it. Points of interest on this stretch are listed below. 

• Krafla Viti Crater
• Mývatn (lake and a geothermal area around Lake Mývatn )
• Godafoss Waterfall
• Dettifoss Waterfall 
• Explore Akureyri

We didn’t have time to explore Lake Myvatn area in its entirety which is something we want to do on our next trip.  There is a lot to explore and do in North Iceland, so this would be another great spot to add a day or 2 .

TIP: If you are spending extra days here consider going to the fishing town of Húsavík.  

Both Akureyri and Húsavík, being closest to the Arctic, are very popular for their whale watching tours. We took a zodiac boat whale watching tour from Akureyri and half the fun was zodiac boat ride in the fjord . 

TIP: Highly recommend zodiac boat over regular whale watching boats/ships.

Spend the night in Akureyri. We stayed in Hotel Kjarnalundur which was about 5 mins driving distance from the city center in Akureyri. View of the mountains and the fjord from our room was the best thing we could have asked for after a long day of driving.

You can choose to stay right in the city center – there is an Berjaya Iceland Hotels   and Hotel Edda in Akureyri as well.

Final day! While driving back from Akureyri to West Iceland we stopped at Snæfellsnes Peninsula. If you wish to skip this peninsula then drive straight to Reykjavík and enjoy an extra day there. We drove around Snaefellsnes and stayed the night in the town of Borgarnes. Our main motivation was to see the most photographed mountain in Iceland, Mt. Kirkjufell . After spending a really short time in Snaesfellsness, we are now certain that this is where we need to return back to explore more.

Depending on where you want to end up – spend the night in one of the villages in Snæfellsnes Peninsula or Reykjavík.

We stayed at  Ensku Husin Guesthouse in Borgarnes in between Snæfellsnes and Reykjavik, and couldn’t have asked for a better place for our last night in Iceland.

On the peninsula, Kirkjufell Guesthouse and Apartments and Arnarstapi Hotel are good options.

END OF ICELAND ROAD TRIP

Driving in Iceland showed us that one country can be a one-stop-shop for travel lovers. The varied landscapes we experienced in one week ranged from black sand beaches to volcanic craters to waterfalls and more waterfalls to Geothermal hot springs to arctic glaciers.

Don’t even get me started on the handsome looking Icelandic horses. With nature in its back pocket, the capital city Reykjavík turned out to be one of the trendiest cities in Europe full of funky nightlife and relish restaurants. Needless to say, we have fallen in love with this country.

After receiving so many questions on our Iceland budget, we’ve added this section. Below is the breakdown of our road trip in USD. 

• Flights – $600 (you can find cheap deals on Iceland Air & Wow Air from the US)
• 4×4 SUV Car Rental (incl GPS & insurance) – $900   (Here’s a quick Car Rental Price Check ) 
• Gas – $350 (we filled a couple of times during our road trip)
• Accommodation (double room with private bathroom) – $150-$200 /night (We prefer private rooms but if you are on a budget consider staying in hostels or renting a camper van)
• Food – $50-$60 (you can save on food by buying groceries and making your own meals through the road trip)
• Blue Lagoon – $60 /person for the lowest Blue Lagoon Package
• Silfra Snorkeling – $130 /person to snorkel  and you can read about our experience before booking.
• Glacier Lagoon Amphibian Boat Tour – $50 /person if you book directly from the Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour website
• Akureyri Whale Watching Zodiac Boat – $190 /person 

We spent roughly over USD 4000   on our entire 7 days Iceland road trip . Depending on the extra activities you do on your Iceland holidays, your budget will either go up or down.

There is definitely LOTS to see & do in Iceland and one visit will never be enough. But we hope that this Iceland itinerary not only helped but inspired you too. This island definitely opens up a can of treasures and we can’t wait to catch more amazing hidden gems in the future.

Any questions? Just shoot us a comment below or on our Facebook page and we would love to help out. 

Happy Traveling!

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68 comments on “ 7 days in iceland itinerary – the ultimate summer road trip guide ”.

After reading your post I feel like this is all I need for my Iceland trip! Most blogs show a “happy camper” itinerary, I am so glad I found yours. I have something I would like to ask, how far in advance did you book your hotels? Do you think it would be hard to find rooms within that price range if we book the same day? I would love to have the flexibility, we are planning to go in September.

Hi Lianet, First of all Sorry for a super delayed response but we were taking a break amidst all this pandemic. And secondly, thank-you ‘coz we love our time staying in BnB’s and hotels in Iceland. Since it’s almost September end, I am guessing you must already be on your awesome Iceland trip. For the benefit of our readers I’ll answer your question – we booked our stay a good 2-3 months in advance. Whether you will find rooms on the same day depends on which season you go and which part of, for e.g. the answer is no during summer but in the shoulder season yes you may expect to find rooms on the same day. Similarly if you are looking at room in the remotest part of Iceland I’d book in advance just to be sure you are not stranded in the middle of no where.

An amazing and detailed itinerary guide on Iceland! Iceland is beautiful and I’m stunned by its beauty even though it is a cold place I will visit this place to experience the beauty. Thank you for sharing this blog.

You should definitely visit some day Kanika! Thanks for dropping a note 🙂

HI, I loved your blog about Iceland. Thank you. We are going to Iceland in August with our 2 teen daughters. I don’t think I want to drive around the island all 7 days we are there, so which area/which activities would you say are must-do? Do we need hiking shoes or our sneakers would do the job too? Thanks

Hi Ferie, if this is your first time in Iceland I would recommend you to cover all the highlights I mentioned in the Southern region for sure. Perhaps add in a hike for hot springs too since you have the time. You might also be able to go and explore the town of Hofn. Let’s say you cover this part of Iceland in 2-3 days then you could also drive the Golden Circle as well as the Western Peninsula (which was the last day in our itinerary). Definitely spend a day in Reykjavik if not more. You even might have chances of seeing Northern Lights there in August! Yay 😀

About Hiking shoes, I will recommend water-resistant hiking boots from our experience with the Icelandic weather.

Hi Lovely blog- thank you for all the great insights! Just one question though – we plan visiting during Summer and mainly plan to visit South, South east & western Iceland. Do you recommend we rent a 4WD or will a 2WD will do? Thank you very much!

Glad you found this useful Sharmila. If you get a good deal on 4WD drive then we recommend that but if not, you will be fine with 2WD in summer as long as you stay on paved roads. The other issue in Iceland is heavy winds so even if you do get 2WD, make sure to rent a sturdy and heavy vehicle. Have a great trip! 🙂

This guide has been a huge help! Would you mind sharing what whale watching company you used?

Super happy to hear your feedback Hannah! We went with a family owned company called “Elding Whale Watching” and their office is conveniently located in the heart of Akureyri city. Here is their link if you want to check them out – https://elding.is/tours?type=whalewatching

Great Guide & thank you for sharing. I am keen to add Iceland to my list & judging by your photos it is a must! Originally planning to go for northern lights but May sounds fab too! Decisions, decisions …. I mainly travel solo & have heard that camper van is the best way to go. Do you think it’s sfae for a woman alone?

Iceland, in general, is one of the safest countries for solo traveling Sue. I’d say that if you are parking your camper van in a designated spot for the night you should have no problem at all.

Great post, great inspo! Would love to go to Iceland

I’ve never been but I have clients traveling there in June (Im an agent). I planned a road trip for them from Rekiyavik, to hof, vik and back. I pinned this for reference when I get ready to get their tours together!

Sounds great!

Incredibly thorough guide! Iceland is one of those places that I think we’d have to visit twice because I’d love to see it in both winter and summer as they are such different experiences!

I couldn’t agree more! We definitely plan to visit Iceland again in winter some day. I’m dying to see northern lights and do a ice cave tour 🙂

Literally, this morning I was updating my list of countries I can go to with direct flights from home and added Iceland to the list, thinking hmmm, this summer or next, I just have to go! And now I came across your post, this must be fate :)) I have heard that summers tend to “sell out” in terms of cars, hotels etc. How much in advance would you advise starting to book stuff?

My tip here would be to go just before the onset of summer. For e.g. we went in May which is not technically considered summer so the hotel prices were not too bad. We booked about 2 months in advance and yet found that some remote area BnBs we wanted were sold out. So that is a real issue you bring up. Over-tourism has hit Iceland very hard I hear, they closed down one of my favorite canyons for tourist as of last week.

Great itinerary. We had 17 days in Iceland so for a short stay this is a great.

Ah, I would love to go back and cover more though! 🙂

Love all the details you provided on this post. It is extremely helpful for planning a trip to Iceland.

Fantastic website and pics. We are planning to travel to Iceland in June and planning almost the same route and destination as yours. Did you visit any ice caves ? If so any suggestions ? What about snowmobiles.?

No, the ice caves are usually closed in the summer for safety reasons. Most companies offer that as a winter activity only. However, there are some glacier walking/hiking tours available (in vatnajökull glacier) that you could do all season. If you are going in June why not consider an ATV off-roading ride? We were so close to booking one in South Iceland but didn’t make it in time for the tour. Snowmobile might be another better winter activity I’d say.

Hey, You guys are amazing. I am planning for Iceland in June with my husband and we are travelling from Houston, TX. Your guide to 7 days trip look perfect we don’t need to make one. Am sorry to ask you this question but how much it costed around? And is it safe for couple to drive in less populated area?

Hi Shruti! So happy to hear that you found our itinerary useful 🙂 And yes, it is very safe for couples to drive in remote areas. In fact, Iceland is one of the safest countries in Europe. Get a GPS device along with your car or have offline google maps downloaded for directions so you don’t get lost. As for the budget, we spent a little over $3000 including car, gas, hotel, food, and all our tours. I will include the breakdown of our expenses in this blog post to help you further.

I just booked my entire 7-day trip in June using this itinerary so thank you so much! You had mentioned getting a 4×4, but I don’t see a lot about traveling through the highlands on your trip. Is the 4×4 necessary and if so, do you have any recommendations for highlands stops?

Also, I’m wondering if I should stay an extra day in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula before flying back. Could I fill an extra day here?

Thanks again!

So glad we could help you out with this itinerary Nick. We used our rental 4×4 on the patch from Hofn to Egilsstadir, that patch was a dirt road cutting through the mountains. If you aren’t going that far east then you shouldn’t need 4 wheel drive but consider getting a sturdier vehicle since the wind speed in Iceland can be crazy. We skipped highlands on purpose since 7 days were not enough to do it all, to be honest. If we weren’t circling around the entire island I think we would have driven through the highlands. That’s definitely a perfect alternative.

For Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Absolutely you can totally spend an entire day and more here. We have a list going on things we want to see here when we return. To name a few we’d love to see the Budir church, the lava caves, the shark museum (where they show you how the local shark delicacy is made) and of course go back to the Kirkjufellsfoss. PS: Snaefellsnes has some tough dirt roads as well.

Thank you so much for all this info! This is the best site I’ve come across so far on the Iceland trip with lots of useful information, pictures, direct links to activities, maps, accommodations, packing list, etc.. We went in the last week of July for 7 days and used your suggested itinerary and accommodations as a baseline and it was perfect for our family of 4! Keep up the good work!!!

Thanks a lot for stopping by and giving your valuable feedback after your trip Kate, we really appreciate it! <3 I hope you and your family enjoyed every bit in Iceland 🙂

I’ve been researching itineraries for our upcoming family Iceland trip in May 2019 and your site is THE BEST so far. I love how you organized your information (visual and descriptive with direct links). I will be using this post to guide me. In fact, I booked a hotel thanks to your useful information and links!

Thank-you so much Jennifer! That means a lot to us and I hope you have a wonderful trip to Iceland, it’s like being on another planet. And yes… I love visual descriptions so much that I can’t help use it on our posts 🙂

What an amazing and fascinating place to visit. I really didn’t know much about this but after reading this post I will surely visit one day. Thanks for sharing such an amazing post.

It is and I’m sure you can relate to it’s beauty coming from Iceland 🙂

Your blog is really good, after reading it I really want to visit Iceland, especially south coast and glacier lagoon.

Great blog! I fell in love with Iceland too after our trip there in winter, you can see what we did there for 4 days. My dream is now to visit Iceland in the summer.

And we have to turn tables and say we really wish to visit Iceland in the winter time 😀 High Five to that!

Hi. My wife and I are planning a 8 day trip around the Ring Road. Which part of Iceland would you have added an extra day? Also, you mention that the diving in Silfra will require 1/2 day. Why does it take that amount of time?

Hi Greg, Definitely add that extra day in the South as there are many worthy stopovers here. Silfra is about 45 minutes drive from Reykjavik and it takes a good hour for everyone in the group to wear waterproof gear and listen to the intro talk. After that, it’s a short hike to the starting point and you will spend about 30-45 mins in water. To get back to the parking lot is another hike. Considering all of this you should definitely keep a good 3-4 hours aside for silfra snorkeling/diving. After this activity, if you have the time then walk through the boardwalk (right behind silfra starting point) which leads to Iceland’s first parliament. Hope this helps and have an amazing time in Iceland 🙂

This is such a thorough guide to seeing Iceland! Saving this for later when I eventually get to tick it off my bucket list 🙂 Thanks for sharing!

Thank-you Alyse! I am so glad to hear that you found it useful, now hope you get to go there soon 🙂

OH MY! What a great and in-depth post! I have bookmarked this wealth of information for my next trip to Iceland!

Thanks a lot Crystal!! 🙂

These pics have me drooling. Really great tips here . I’m dying to do this exact trip. I spent a week in winter and went as far as Jokulsarlon because just wanted to do a slower paced trip. Pinning this for when I can go in spring or summer!

I hear ya, winter is very bad out there. Yes please try to do this ring during summer anytime between May-August would be perfect for this itinerary.

Wow such a detailed post with gorgeous photos and amazing tips! Iceland has been on my bucketlist forever and i can’t wait to tick it off. Your inclusion of maps is great and will certainly help. Thank you for putting this together.

Aww thanks a lot Ketki!! I hope you get to go here soon and if you have any questions just give me a holler 🙂

I spent a week hiking Iceland last summer and it was just brilliant! What a stunningly beautiful place! 🙂 Thank you for this comprehensive guide 🙂

Now Ionna, I need to go hike there next time and would take tips from you then 😉 This trip of ours was mostly road tripping without any major hikes.

Very useful tips! Thank you. And those photos of yours are stunning

Thank you Mina!! So happy to hear you liked our photos 😀

Oh man! I can’t believe you did all this in 7 days! I would need at least two weeks, maybe more – I would stop way too many times to take pictures. We only did parts of the western side of Iceland in a week. We drove down to Vik with hopes of going further to the famous Glacier Lagoon but it was super rainy and we were super tired, so we skipped it. Definitely want to go back one day. It’s such an amazing beautiful country with landscapes I’ve never seen before.

Haha I know exactly what you mean by taking too many pictures! But wait is that even a thing? lol But on a serious note, we only stopped at the places in bold here since we wanted to complete the roadtrip circle. I have listed additional places too for people who might want to go for a longer time. And I tell you what I probably wanna spend a good 3-4 days in western fjords next time.

This is on the top of my bucketlist for a while now! Will definitely save this as a guide for my future visit (whenever that may be). Thank you for sharing and I am soooo loving this post!

Thanks Kate!! Make that bucket list happen soon 😉

Loved the details and getting a little more information about the different sights. May not be able to see everything but not everyone travels the same and that is ok! Glad to just get more information in general 🙂

Yes and please take it at your own pace! It’s not too difficult to finish this loop in 7 days in the summertime. But any other time of the year I wouldn’t recommend doing it in 7 days anyway. I do have WAY too much information in here for people who might want to add additional days. PS: we only stopped at places highlighted in bold and we weren’t even rushing ourselves.

I feel like I’m the last person in the world who hasn’t been to Iceland! Love the photos. Thanks for sharing!

Haha.. I do feel like Iceland is getting a major tourist bump these days so don’t feel bad. Go when you can, you will love it!

Oh wow. Really nice post. We did so erging similar and your post brought back all those memories. I have that Iceland post also on my blog at BeeTravelista website. Hope that brings you memories too 🙂

Vry detailed itinerary, thank you very much! 🙂

Great Article and beautiful pictures! I am going to Iceland in December for 9-day tour. Hopefully, I will get to see northern lights. Can you describe what photo gear you used for taking these pictures? I am selecting on lenses I need to carry. I am also going through a lot of videos posted on youtube and other blogs. Any tips from you would be appreciated! Also, do have any recommendations for food stops/must go places while on wheels..? ( I am a vegan, so I know this is going to be tough!)

Hi Omkar, Yes we hope you get lucky with the Northern lights as well, download some Northern light apps to get notifications on them during your stay. To answer your questions – About camera gear: We will highly recommend a tripod (esp for northern lights), a polarizer (for daytime), remote shutter and a water protective gear for your camera. For the lenses, we always have a wide angle in our bag and our go to lens is 18-135mm since we love shooting landscapes. Now to be honest we also carried our zoom 70-300mm with us to Iceland but probably only used it a handful of times shooting birds/horses and a few far away sunsets in the entire trip. I guess it boils down to what your ultimate goal of photography is going to be in Iceland. Man.. We should perhaps just do a quick post on camera gear to carry 😛 About food: Ah, you will have plenty of veggie options in Reykjavik. It’s a multicultural city. But as you drive further away from the city (for e.g. South Iceland) you will have very limited food stops. Restaurants are going to be a part of guesthouses/ hotels in these areas. If you are a strict Vegan (i.e. no diary etc) then perhaps keep some backup options in your backpack in case you can’t find true vegan food out in the dirt. But we are sure you can find vegetarian food here. Hope this helps. 🙂

Thanks ! that is helpful!

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Hello from Gaurav & Richa! An adventurous couple who did NOT quit their corporate jobs to travel the world. On the contrary, we're all about balancing that work-travel life. Our goal is to explore as much as we can in our short vacations and yes, we do go to great lengths to find unique experiences and great food to share with you all. Learn more About Us .

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Complete Iceland Summer Road Trip Itinerary

Drive Around Iceland in 10 Days: Itinerary & Map

• When is summer in Iceland
• What to pack
• 10-Day Itinerary & Things to Do

Recommended tours

• Related blogs

Iceland during the summer is an ideal destination, offering pleasant weather, longer evenings, and numerous tours to explore its stunning locations. Many tourists flock to the country during this season to enjoy its natural beauty. Additionally, the summer months provide better road accessibility, clear skies, and a higher frequency of tours.

One of the highlights of summer in Iceland is the abundance of natural beauty, including stunning landscapes, towering waterfalls, glaciers, and geysers. Many of these sites are easily accessible through tours and excursions, making it an excellent time for exploring.

Plus, because of the Midnight Sun, you can find things to do in Iceland in summer almost around the clock!

Off-road driving in Iceland

Summer is also the season when outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding are also popular. That’s why a summer road trip in Iceland is a brilliant idea. Whale watching, hiking in the Highlands, puffins spotting—you name it, Iceland has it!

Overall, summer in Iceland is a magical time, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the country's incredible natural wonders, unique culture, and endless outdoor activities.

When is summer in Iceland?

Summer in Iceland typically lasts from June to August, and during this time, the country experiences almost continuous daylight, with the sun setting only for a few hours before rising again (known as the Midnight Sun phenomenon).

How warm is the summer in Iceland?

The weather is usually mild, with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 °C (68-77 °F), making it the warmest season in Iceland.

However, even if you get especially lucky during the summer days with temperatures ranging from 20-25 °C (68-77 °F), it's still advisable to pack a coat (even if you're wearing shorts). This is because temperatures can drop significantly, with lows reaching around 6.7 °C (44.1 °F). It's also important to note that Iceland can experience rain showers, even during the summer, and the temperature tends to be colder in the highlands and on mountain peaks.

Yes, the weather in Iceland may be unpredictable, but it's a small price to pay for the chance to witness some of the world's most spectacular natural wonders and to experience the freshest air and water on the planet, right?

What to pack for Iceland in summer?

As the locals in Iceland like to repeat: “There’s no bad weather, just wrong clothes.”

Woman hiking in Icelandic Highlands

We suggest these must-pack items for summer road trips in Iceland:

• Hiking boots
• A good quality raincoat
• Water bottle
• Water-resistant jacket and pants/trousers 
• Thermal underwear
• Scarf, gloves, hat
• Camera with extra batteries and memory cards (you won’t regret this one!)
• Portable charger
• Waterproof cases for phone and camera

As you will find out, even if you are planning your Iceland road trip for summer, you should still pack for all four seasons!

Iceland 10-Day Itinerary & Things to Do

Iceland is a fantastic destination for a road trip, thanks to its gorgeous natural landscapes, unique culture, and easy-to-navigate roads. Driving in Iceland can be an exciting and rewarding way to explore the country, but it's essential to be prepared, drive cautiously, and follow the rules of the road.

Car parked near the Icelandic glacier with mesmerizing scenery

The most popular route is the Ring Road , also known as Þjóðvegur 1 (Route 1), which spans over 1322 km (820 miles) and circles the entire island. Along the way, you'll pass by stunning sights such as waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, and volcanic landscapes, often catching the first sight of them right through the car window.

You really don’t need a complex plan to go around the island and visit the main highlights. What you do need is time. You could drive the whole Rind Road in 5 or 7 days, but if your goal is to really get to know Iceland, a few extra days will be worth it!

For this itinerary, you will drive counterclockwise around Iceland, guided by the Ring Road with must-see highlights and a few small detours. However, you could also reverse this trip’s direction if you prefer. Can’t decide whether you want to go south or north first? Here’s a tip : Check the weather forecast on either side and head for the warmer or sunnier one!

Day 1 - Arrival in Iceland: Reykjanes Peninsula

Geothermal activity field in Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland

Velkominn! You landed in Iceland, full of excitement and anticipation for your upcoming road trip. Once you get your rental car ready to go and stock up on some groceries, it’s time to hit the road!

Your Iceland trip starts at the Reykjanes Peninsula (also called the Smokey Peninsula). This area is full of volcanic and geothermal activity, which you can experience first-hand.

From Keflavik airport, head to the Blue Lagoon , which only takes 15 minutes. We suggest prioritizing a visit to the most famous spa in Iceland before heading to Reykjavík as it saves time spent driving back and forth. Furthermore, taking a dip in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon is a great way to unwind, particularly if you've just arrived in Iceland on a red-eye flight.

Another bucket list-worthy experience is hiking in the newest volcano eruption site in Meradalir Valley , about 30 minutes from Keflavík airport. In 2021 and again in 2022, the Fagradalsfjall volcano in Iceland erupted after being dormant for thousands of years. Although it is currently not active, you can visit the site of the recent eruption to witness the newly created lava field.

You can spend the rest of your day strolling around Reykjavik to visit the city's highlights such as the famous Hallgrimskirkja Church, Sólfarið (Sun Voyager), and Harpa Concert Hall. You can even get a ‘preview’ of the natural wonders of Icelandic nature in Reykjavik's Perlan Museum.

Another way to start off your Iceland experience is to treat your tastebuds! Spend three to four hours trying the most delicious tastes of Icelandic cuisine on a local food walk .

Your first and last days will be on the Reykjanes Peninsula, so take your time enjoying every stop, and feel free to switch the activities around.

Day 2 - Introduction to Iceland: The Golden Circle Highlights

Clear blue waters between tectonic plates in Silfra Fissure, Iceland

Today, you will drive around the most famous natural wonders of Iceland right from the start. The Golden Circle is a 300 km (190 mi) route that connects some of the most loved attractions in Iceland: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

Start by exploring Thingvellir National Park (or Þingvellir), a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the place of the world's oldest operational parliament , the Alþing, established in the year 930. Thingvellir is also a well-known geological location where the tectonic plates are separating for about 0.79 in (2 cm) each year. You can walk between the sturdy cliffs that form the edges of the North American and Eurasian plates, which is often described as walking between continents .

A must-do here is snorkeling or diving in the purest water on Earth in Silfra Fissure. Experience in Silfra Fissure was named one of the Top 5 activities in the world by TripAdvisor.

Geyser eruption in geothermal area, Iceland

The next stop is the impressive Geysir geothermal area , where you will witness the spectacular eruption of Strokkur , an active geyser hot spring, which bursts vast amounts of hot water and steam up to 25 meters. Don’t skip this photo opportunity! Even if you miss the first eruption, you won't have to wait long to see another superheated blast as they occur every 5 to 10 minutes. The surrounding area is filled with steaming fumaroles and simmering hot springs—evidence of the powerful geothermal activity underground.

Now head to the iconic Gullfoss waterfall ('the Golden Falls’). The thundering Hvítá River rushes with a deafening roar and cascades into the canyon with immense force, leaving you in awe of the tremendous energy of Gullfoss . On a sunny day, if you're lucky, you'll see a beautiful rainbow arching over the canyon.

Since you will probably sightsee until late evening, there are a few accommodation options near the Golden Circle.

Tip : Some less popular but equally impressive sights in the area are Kerid Crater, Secret Lagoon Hot Spring, and Bruarfoss Waterfall.

Giant Gullfoss Waterfall, famous Golden Circle attraction

Day 3 - Iceland’s South Coast: Waterfalls & Beaches

Today you will continue going South which is considered to be the flattest part of the country. This area is famous for its stunning waterfalls and icy landscapes, with outlet glaciers that reach out from Iceland's ice caps, providing an opportunity to see them up close in Skaftafell.

Tip : As you are returning to Road 1 to continue your journey, you can stop by the azure blue lake of the volcanic Kerid Crater.

Have a fresh start to your day by walking behind the renowned Seljalandsfoss Waterfall .  

Out of 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss certainly made a name for itself as it is one of few places in the world where it’s possible to get a 360° view of the cascade.

Continue driving Route 1, and you will reach the famous Skogafoss waterfall . It is one of the widest and most elegant cascades in Iceland. On a sunny day, there are big chances to see a double rainbow in the rich mist of the cascade. Make sure to also climb the stairs on the side to get a different view!

Tip : Want to hunt down the hidden gems instead of the big names? Visit the secret ‘neighbors’ of these famous waterfalls: Kvernufoss and Gljufrabui waterfalls.

Glacier hiking tour on Solheimajokull glacier in south Iceland

After you finish catching your breath from all the stunning waterfalls you just saw, re-emerge into a world of ice. Right off the road, Solheimajokull Glacier is easily accessible, and a popular destination for epic hikes and ice climbing. The walk will take you just about 2 hours, but you will get an unforgettable experience of glacier hiking . The views of labyrinths of ice ridges, deep crevasses, and enormous sinkholes will remain with you long after the trip.

Tip : On the way to Reynisfjara, stop by the crashed DC-3 Plane Wreck on the black sand beach. It’s a one-of-a-kind place and well worth the 1-hour walk from the parking lot.

Black Sand Beach near Vik village in South Coast Iceland

Next, you will drive to Vik, the southernmost village in Iceland , passing by Dyrholaey , a cape that rises 393 ft (120 m) above the sea. This region is a haven for various seabirds, including the adorable puffins , and features a white lighthouse at its peak.

Continue your journey to Reynisfjara , the world-famous black sand beach with rising sea stacks and basalt columns. The scenery of this beach is very photogenic, with powerful waves (that you should be very wary of!) and volcanic black sand as far as your eye can see.

You can find a place to stay for the night in either Vik or the Kirkjubaejarklaustur vicinity.

Stay for the night at Hotel Geirland , which is comfortably located by Route 1, in the Kirkjubaejarklaustur vicinity. Surrounded by the region's natural landscapes, it's an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.

Dyrholaey Arch Rock in Iceland

Day 4 - Deep into the South: Glacier Paradise & Jökulsárlón Lagoon

If you stayed for the night in Vik, you can start the day off in the most Icelandic manner and take a horse riding trip on the black sand beach. Feeling like a Viking yet?

If you want to visit a natural ice cave , this is your only chance to do that in summer as natural ice caves are usually inaccessible during this time of year. Book an ice-caving tour from Vik to Myrdalsjokull glacier and visit Katla, ‘the ice cave under a volcano’. This is a legendary location, due to its black ice and movie-like landscapes that make you feel like you’re on another planet.

Keep in mind, the one thing you should absolutely avoid is trying to go on a glacier or into an ice cave on your own — it is extremely dangerous. Booking an adventure with an expert local guide is a safe and responsible option.

The next stop is Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe . There are a few access points to its glacier outlets, but most activities start at Skaftafell , which is a true adventure hub. If there is one experience you have to live through once in your life, it is hiking on the glacier . You don’t need to be an experienced hiker, and all gear will be provided for you. Immerse yourself in this expedition to truly get close to the ancient ice giant.

Tip : When in Skaftafell Nature Reserve, hike to the hidden Svartifoss Waterfall , also referred to as "The Black Waterfall," for its hexagonal basalt columns created by volcanic eruptions from many years ago. The waterfall is only a 40-minute walk away, and the scenery around it is absolutely stunning.

Svartifoss Waterfall in Skaftafell Nature Reserve

You can already start getting your camera ready as you drive towards your next location, which is called " The Crown Jewel of Iceland ". From Skaftafell, you will head towards Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon , where you will see huge floating blocks of ice that broke away from the glacier. As they float southward, the icebergs gradually melt and ultimately reach Diamond Beach , where they meet the Atlantic Ocean. On Diamond Beach (just across the bridge from the lagoon), you can see many icebergs sparkling in the sunlight — one of the most loved sights by visitors.

If you want to get up close to the icebergs and seals at Jokulsarlon, you can take a boat tour that will get you close to majestic views and local wildlife. You can also take charge yourself and navigate the lagoon on a kayak as you come across secluded spots that are only accessible in this way. Any visitor to Iceland should not miss out on this unique opportunity

The closest accommodation option to the Vatnajökull is Hotel Hof . Just a minute away from Hofskirkja church, a 3-minute drive to Vatnajökull National Park, and a 45-minute drive to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, it offers convenience and great scenery. Here, you're perfectly positioned to explore the area's natural wonders while enjoying a comfortable stay.

Day 5 - The Eastfjords: Cozy Towns & Bird Watching

Today, there will be more driving but not less sightseeing as every inch of Iceland’s coastline tempts you to stop and admire it. If you enjoy the “ in the middle of nowhere ” feeling, you’re in luck. East Iceland is dotted with quaint coastline towns, untamed fjords, and mountain peaks rising above black sand beaches.

Puffins spotted on a cliff in a South of Iceland

Tip : If you’re a photography buff, don’t miss this spot! As you leave your accommodation, especially if you stayed the night in Hofn, make sure to visit the Vestrahorn mountain on the Stokksnes peninsula. Even with basic photography knowledge, you can capture a stunning shot of its twin peaks and black sands. This is private land owned by the Viking Café, so you will pay a small fee of 900 ISK ($6.50) to visit.

Start by visiting the charming fishing village Seydisfjordur . You will probably recognize its vibrant blue church with a rainbow-colored brick road as it’s a much-loved photo spot among travelers. You can stroll around the museums here or enjoy delicious local cuisines such as reindeer meat or seafood.

The next location will be a detour, but it’s worth it as you will reach the most beautiful fjord in the Eastfjords, Borgarfjörður . The roads are usually empty, even in tourist season, so you'll have a peaceful drive. Borgarfjörður Eystri is the final stop of the day, and it's a small fjord-side village with only about 100 people living there. The mountains surrounding the village are so dramatic and sharp, making it one of the most stunning spots in Iceland.

When in Borgarfjörður, make sure to visit Hafnarhólmi Cape . It's one of the best spots for bird-watching , especially for adorable puffins . About 10,000 pairs of puffins nest here every summer! You can see these busy bird colonies up close on the small cliff by the harbor. During the daytime, you can see fewer of them as they are busy with ‘fishing’, but they're very active in the evenings, so that's the best time to spot them.

Most people stop to spend the night in the riverbank town of Egilsstaðir , which is also called “ the capital of East Iceland ” . Fun fact, Egilsstaðir is considered by locals to be exceptionally hot in summer (by Icelandic measurements, of course).

Near Egilsstaðir, check out the Vök Baths if you want to experience one of the best geothermal spots in Iceland. You can relax in the only floating pools in the country while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Urriðavatn. Don't forget to bring your swimsuit! The baths are designed to look like the unfrozen parts of the lake, where Icelanders have been soaking for ages. Plus, in the summer, you can also take a dip in the lake itself.

Day 6 - Heading North: The Myvatn Lake Area

White sheep on Icelandic field

You could easily make a whole separate multi-day tour just to see North Iceland. However, we attempted to pick the best highlights, so you could get as much of the North on this day as possible. As you leave Egilsstaðir, your first stop will be Stuðlagil Canyon , which is an enchanting rock formation made out of basalt , separated by a turquoise glacial river.

Next up, prepare to be amazed by Dettifoss , which is the most powerful waterfall in Europe . The water flow here is extremely intense, and it'll probably make you realize just how powerful nature can be. Plus, you get to see the filming location of the opening scene of the movie “Prometheus”. Dettifoss is a true wonder of nature and a highlight of any trip to Iceland. You'll be awestruck by the sheer power of the water as it drops an impressive 44 meters (144 ft) into the canyon below, creating a thundering sound that echoes far throughout the area.

Finally, your journey takes you to the mesmerizing volcanic wonderland surrounding Lake Mývatn . This stunning lake, covering a vast area of 14 square miles (36.5 km2), is the fourth largest in Iceland. Mývatn was formed as a result of a massive basaltic lava fissure eruption that occurred more than 2300 years ago. With rare bird species and unique vegetation, it’s no surprise that this area is considered one of Iceland's most valuable protected nature reserves.

Myvatn Nature Baths - geothermal oasis in North Iceland

Soak in Myvatn Nature Baths , a tranquil oasis in North Iceland, that offers a more secluded alternative to the busier Blue Lagoon. Immerse yourself in the warm, geothermal waters of the natural baths or continue your exploration of the wondrous Myvatn area.

If you’re a fan of The Game of Thrones, Grjótagjá Cave is a must-see spot. Enter this iconic film location to check out Jon Snow and Ygritte’s hidden romantic getaway!

Close to Lake Mývatn lies one of Iceland’s most breathtaking geothermal areas , Námaskarð. This otherworldly, highly dynamic volcanic landscape is filled with vigorously boiling hot springs and noisy fumaroles that are encircled by vibrant, mineral-stained earth. The pungent odor of sulfur may be unpleasant to some, but the captivating vistas that surround you will make you quickly forget about the smell!

Tip : After completing your visit to Myvatn, you can drop by the Dimmuborgir rocks (“the Dark Fortress,”) . This is an area full of strangely shaped lava rock formations, caves, caverns, tunnels, and subarctic vegetation. Watch out for the trolls here!

At this point, you can proudly say you have seen the highlights of the Myvatn area and can drive to Husavik , known as the whale watching capital of the world. If witnessing a whale is on your bucket list, Husavik should be on your itinerary!

Day 7 - Deep into the North: Whales & Fishing Villages

Huge whale jumping out of water in Iceland

Begin your day in the charming coastal town of Húsavík , which has earned a well-deserved reputation as a great location for whale watching and a “Eurovision” movie landmark. Discover this town with our list of things to do in Husavik .

Whale-watching boat tour in Husavik

Our next destination is Godafoss , an awe-inspiring waterfall that matches its grandiose name. From Icelandic, it translates as " the Waterfall of the Gods " , and it certainly lives up to it. The falls have a symmetrical and balanced layout, with water cascading over a 39-foot (12-meter) cliff in a 98-foot (30-meter) wide display. This is a hotspot for landscape photographers, and you're sure to capture some special shots of this powerful scenery!

Afterward, your journey will lead you to the charming city of Akureyri , considered the cultural capital of North Iceland. The city has a lively atmosphere with its exciting nightlife and plenty of fascinating landmarks. You will have the opportunity to spend the night either in Akureyri or in the stunning Eyjafjordur region. Is there an end to the wonders of North Iceland?

For the rest of the day, get immersed in Iceland's astounding wildlife. Dalvik is a quaint fishing village located just a 30-minute drive from Akureyri. Embark on a thrilling whale-watching adventure , where you have almost 100% chance to witness the majestic creatures of the sea such as humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins in the beautiful bay of Eyjafjörður. Not only can you admire the incredible marine life, but you can also try your hand at sea angling.

Day 8 and 9 - “Iceland in miniature”: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Beautiful scenery in Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Iceland

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula offers a breathtaking view of the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and serene coastal scenery that makes it an absolute must-see destination. The experience can either be an intense day trip or a more relaxed two-day adventure to explore the particular sights that captivate your interest.

Once you navigate through many twists and turns of the rustic Northern countryside, you will eventually reach Hvitserkur , a colossal rhino-shaped basalt stack towering 49 feet (15 meters) high on the eastern coast of the Vatnsnes peninsula. It is important to keep in mind that the route leading to Hvítserkur is not operational during the winter season, so you’ve come at the perfect time!

Explore the magnificent Kirkjufell , also known as the "Church Mountain," which is among the most recognizable attractions in Iceland. It was also listed as one of the top 10 most beautiful mountains in the world ! When driving from Grundarfjörður toward Kirkjufell, you will also spot the majestic waterfall Kirkjufellsfoss.

As you continue farther down the coast, make a stop at the most dramatic black pebble beach on the peninsula. Djúpalónssandur stretches into a mystical lava wonderland. Take a short hike down to the beach to see peculiar lava formations and crashing waves. Long ago, there were 60 fishing boats in this bay, which remains deserted today. If you want to test your strength like the fishermen in the old times, visit four lifting stones in Djúpalónssandur and give it a try!

Lóndrangar Basalt Cliffs in Snæfellnes Peninsula, Iceland

Next up, you will see “The Rocky Caste of Iceland”, or Lóndrangar Basalt Cliffs . It is one of the most unique geological wonders on the Snæfellnes Peninsula. The gigantic Lóndrangar Cliff was once an ancient volcanic crater that was eroded by natural forces. This structure is so unique, you must see it in real life to truly understand it.

As you continue exploring the peninsula, unwind in the small fishing village of Arnarstapi . There is a beautiful natural harbor with extraordinary basalt rocks, columns, and basalt caves. Strolling along the Arnarstapi Cliff will be the highlight of your day here. This laid-back short 1.5-mile (2.4 km) round-trip hike will take you along the coastal cliffs and Gatklettur (a natural stone arch). This is the perfect place to have a picnic!

During your journey, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the small settlement of Búðir. It is a remarkable place to explore due to its architectural marvel, the Búðakirkja church . Constructed in the 19th century, this ancient black church is an impressive sight surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Iceland.

Tip : Starting to miss Icelandic waterfalls already? Stop by Bjarnarfoss , an impressive waterfall on the green slopes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The multi-layered roaring cascade is 80m (262 ft) high and looks gigantic from the bottom.

After admiring the mountains, you’ll visit the best seal-spotting location in Iceland! Ytri-Tunga is a golden sand beach populated by seal colonies. You will very likely see at least a few seals that are friendly and curious , often relaxing the rocks where they can be easily spotted.

Next up is Europe’s most powerful hot spring —Deildartunguhver. Finding the hot spring is very easy, simply go on Route 1 and then Route 50, and you’ll quickly reach it. Once you arrive, you’ll see clouds of steam rising from the ground. The scalding Deildartunguhver produces 50 gallons (180 liters) of water per second at 97°C (200°F)!

Into the Glacier - man-made ice tunnel on Langjökull glacier

By now, you will have explored so much of Icelandic summer that you might want to add some winter activities. After all, no Iceland trip is complete without an ice cave! Although during summer you cannot visit natural ice caves, the ideal place to explore one is a man-made tunnel in Langjökull . Drive to Husafell and embark on an exciting expedition into Iceland's second-largest glacier ! This adventure involves a guided tour in a colossal monster truck that will transport you to the ice cave.

Tip : As an optional detour, on your drive back to Reykjavik, you will pass by the Glymur waterfall. This is one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, and you can easily add a 7km (4.4 miles) round trip hike to your trip.

While exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, stop at Hotel Hellissandur . This hotel provides a perfect base to experience the area's coastal beauty and the nearby Snæfellsjökull National Park.

Day 10 - Last Day in Iceland: Reykjavik

Reykjavik's church - Hallgrimskirkja

Today’s the departure day, so you’ll be eventually heading to Keflavik International Airport. But before you wave goodbye to the Land of Ice and Fire, you can still squeeze in a few ‘treats’.

Before you drop off your rental car, you can stop by to check off the Bridge Between Continents on your list and walk between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

If your flight is in the afternoon or evening, you can spend your remaining time relaxing in one of the geothermal spas. If you’ve already been to Blue Lagoon, visit the newly opened Sky Lagoon just a 15-minute drive from Reykjavik. 

Make the most of your last hours on the island. You can also go for a short whale-watching excursion right from Reykjavik. This rib boat trip is done only during the summer. So hop on to sail in the Atlantic Ocean and meet cute little puffins and whales in their natural habitat!

Hopefully, by the end of this road trip, you will bring home not only a collection of amazing photos but also memories to cherish forever!

Iceland Summer Road Trip Itinerary - FAQ

Is it worth going to iceland in summer.

Yes! Iceland is an amazing place for tourists all year round as each season has its own specialties to enjoy. The most popular things to do in Iceland in the summer are whale and puffin watching, road-tripping, camping, hiking in the highlands, and kayaking. This remote island is both rough and diverse, and your unique experience will certainly be the one to remember!

Off road driving in Icelandic mossy fields

How long do you need to road trip Iceland?

Generally, 8-12 days in the summer is optimum for exploring the island and the surrounding areas. If you’ve been to Iceland before and want to add more off-the-beaten-path locations like the remote Westfjords (or camping in the Highlands) to your itinerary, you will certainly need a few extra days.

There are few regions of Iceland not included in most "Ring Road" drives that can make for an unforgettable remote wilderness experience.

Is it easy to drive in Iceland in summer?

Getting around Iceland in summer is generally simple, provided that you know what you’re in for. The ever-changing weather in Iceland adds to the country's charm, creating a continuously evolving and dynamic environment. 

While it can be frustrating for travelers who are not prepared, it's also an opportunity to witness the power of nature in action. We’ve created a complete guide to driving in Iceland to answer all your questions and help you to get ready for your road trip.

Fascinating scenery of Icelandic mountains

How long does it take to see Iceland in the summer?

If you have the time you can spare, a 10 to 14-day vacation would be ideal. One thing is for sure: You will not get bored. Your trip will be generously spiced with the world's most unique and spectacular natural wonders, from towering glaciers and stunning waterfalls to vast geothermal areas and active volcanoes.

Note : If you are new to independent road-tripping and want to do more sightseeing and less planning, consider booking a self-drive tour package . In addition to the accommodation and car rental, each tour includes suggested points of interest along the way, GPS coordinates for every stop, and a comprehensive self-drive handbook with practical information about Iceland.

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Iceland Road Trip | The Perfect Itinerary for 7, 14 & 21 Days

An Iceland road trip is probably one of the most amazing trips you can do in Europe. Iceland is just perfect as a country for a road trip and the landscape is just spectacular on the small volcanic island in the Atlantic. There are waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches and the highlands in which you feel like on the moon.

On an road trip through Iceland you will see and experience things that you can’t see anywhere else, at least not in this density. There are different ways to discover Iceland on a road trip. Whether you have only 7-10 days, 2 weeks or even 3 weeks time. Iceland is always worth a trip.

In the following we have 3 route suggestions for you, so that you can experience the perfect Iceland vacation.

We are Sabrina and Andreas, two adventurous travelers who never miss an opportunity to discover the world. Whether by plane to distant countries or with our campervan Bruno, we just love to travel. We hope to give you helpful tips for your next trip on our blog.

Sabrina & Andreas Globetrotters, Travelers, Adventurers

Iceland Road Trip Tips

If you want to travel to Iceland, then it is advisable to take some travel tips to heart. Some things are -besides the landscape- very special in Iceland. These include the required rental cars, the weather and regions such as the highlands. Some important Iceland tips we want to give you now to the hand.

Where to book a Rental Car for Iceland

Generally we like to book our rental cars for everywhere in the world with German providers. Unfortunately, there are no campervans or rental cars with roof tent available. Also cars, which are suitable for the highlands, are not available here.

For that you have to search with Icelandic providers. A specialized price comparison site for rental cars in Iceland is northbound.is* . There you can find everything from normal small cars to SUVs with roof tent to large SUVs and campers.

With Northbound, you can cancel all cars up to 48 hours before the start of the rental period free of charge . This is always helpful if travel plans change unexpectedly. We were completely satisfied with the booking, the car, the whole process and the support of Northbound and can only recommend you to book here.

Car Rental at the Iceland Specialist with Years of Know-How:

Northbound.is.

• compares all Icelandic car rental providers
• specialized in Iceland roundtrips and the highlands
• specialized insurances for the rough Iceland available
• free cancellation up to 48h before start of rental period
• normal rental cars, campervans , motorhomes, SUV (also with roof tent) & off-road vehicles available

Find The Best Prices for Iceland Rental Cars at northbound.is*

Important Travel Tips for your Iceland Road Trip

Iceland is a very special destination. Not only because of the indescribably beautiful landscape. Also because the climatic conditions and the road conditions are very special. It is always windy and often stormy. Of course it also rains very often.

And although the ring road around the island is almost completely paved, the roads in the adventurous highlands are of a completely different caliber.

As you can see, there is a lot to consider before you go on your first Iceland road trip. To make your trip planning a little easier, we have written a separate article on the most important travel tips for Iceland:

• Iceland Travel Tips 2023 | What you should know before your first road trip!

Iceland Road Trip | Our Route Suggestions

Iceland is super versatile, it offers countless waterfalls, glaciers, black lava beaches, volcanoes, hot springs and much more. The nature in Iceland is the highlight of the island. Nowhere in the world are comparable landscapes in such abundance. Iceland must be seen and many people are attracted to the volcanic island in the Atlantic not only once.

You can spend many weeks or even months on Iceland and still not have seen everything. But even with a round trip of 1-3 weeks you can see many great sights and be enchanted by the breathtaking nature.

7 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

If you only have a week for an Iceland road trip, then it is unrealistic and too stressful to go around the whole island, instead you should stay in the south. But that’s not bad at all, because in the south of Iceland there are many great highlights like the glacier lagoon Jökulsárlon or the black lava beach Stokksnes.

Also many great waterfalls are located in the south of Iceland and can be visited with our Iceland itinerary for one week.

So you can get a great overview of the wonderful landscape here and whet your appetite for your next Iceland trip.

Facts about the Iceland Road Trip

Duration: 7-10 days Kilometers: 1180 km Best time to travel: In summer (June-August), in winter for aurora & ice caves (January/February) More info about the route: Our trip report

Highlights on the route

Golden Circle Skogafoss Waterfall Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon Stokksnes

Overview of the 7 Days Itinerary

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With our 7-day itinerary, you’ll see the very biggest Iceland highlights and experience many of the most beautiful sights in Iceland. The hotel density in the south of Iceland is relatively high and there are also quite a few campsites. So you won’t have any problems with accommodation.

If you want more information about our 7 days Iceland road trip then read our detailed travel report:

7 Days Iceland Road Trip | All You Need To Know

Iceland Road Trip Itinerary for 14 Days

It is easily possible during a 2 week Iceland road trip itinerary to circle the island once and take in most of the highlights. Because the ring road leads once around the island and there are also most of the highlights. But if you also want to drive through Iceland’s spectacular highlands, it is not so easy to find a suitable route for a 14-day Iceland road trip.

Therefore, we have looked at the research for our own 14 days Iceland round trip, which highland roads can also be driven with a simple off-road vehicle and made an Iceland itinerary including the highlands . You can of course skip the highland parts of this route and spend more time on the coast.

Duration: 14-16 days Kilometers: 2270 km Best time to travel: In summer (June-August) More info about the route: Our travelogue

Landmannalaugar Skogafoss waterfall Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon Kerlingafjöll & the highlands

Overview of the 2 Weeks Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

In our 2 weeks itinerary you will see the most beautiful Icelandic highlights and even experience the adventurous highlands in the center of the island. What you can discover in Iceland’s highlands is really out of this world. For the highlands you absolutely need an off-road vehicle. Do you want to know what you have to pay attention to when renting a car and what you can expect here?

For more information about our 14 days Iceland road trip itinerary read our detailed travel report:

14 Days Iceland Road Trip (incl. Highlands) | All You Need To Know

Iceland Road Trip in 3 Weeks

On a 3 weeks Iceland road trip you can discover almost all sights of this wonderful island. You will not only drive along Iceland’s ring road, but you can also visit special places like the remote Westfjords or the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

But also the most beautiful sights on the ring road of Iceland, such as Skogafoss, Stokksnes , the glacier lagoon Jökulsarlon or Dettifoss you will be able to marvel at this Iceland road trip.

Our 3 weeks Iceland itinerary is based on a classic Iceland round trip along the ring road and makes additional detours to great highlights like the Westfjords or the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

Duration: 21-23 days Kilometers: 3795 km  Best time to travel: In summer (June-August) More info about the route: Our travelogue

Landmannalaugar Westfjords Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon The Highlands

Overview of the 3 Weeks Iceland Itinerary

In 3 weeks you can actually already discover everything in Iceland. I get to the highlands, visit the remote Westfjords and otherwise take every wonderful Iceland highlight that there is to experience here.

For more information on our 3 week Iceland road trip read our detailed trip report:

3 Weeks Iceland Road Trip (with Highlands) | All You Need To Know

We hope you enjoyed our blog post about the best Iceland Road Trip Itineraries. If you have any question feel free to leave us a comment below.

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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.

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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 .

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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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Top 5 Best Road Trips in Iceland (with full itineraries!)

5-Day Road Trip: Golden Circle, Glacier Lagoon & South Coast

Day 1: arrival in reykjavik, day 2: exploring the golden circle, day 3: black sands and white glaciers, day 4: ice wonderland, day 5: reykjavik & blue lagoon, 7-day road trip: west & south iceland with the golden circle, day 1: first day in iceland, day 2: exploring snaefellsnes peninsula, day 3: the golden circle, day 4: waterfalls & black sand beaches, day 5: glacier lagoon & skaftafell nature reserve, day 6: driving the south coast, day 7: sky lagoon or blue lagoon, 8-day ring road adventure around iceland, day 1: arriving in iceland, day 2: golden circle & south coast, day 3: skaftafell nature reserve & the diamond beach, day 4: visiting the eastfjords, day 5: the diamond circle & lake myvatn.

• Day 6: Exploring the "Capital of the North"

Day 7: The West of Iceland

Day 8: farewell to iceland, 10 day unforgettable ring road trip & snaefellsnes peninsula, day 2: the golden circle.

• Day 3: Exploring the Beautiful South Coast
• Day 4: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & Eastfjords
• Day 5: A Day at Lake Myvatn
• Day 6: Gems of North Iceland
• Day 7: The Capital of the North
• Day 8: Snaefellsnes peninsula
• Day 9: Wonders of West Iceland
• Day 10: Farewell to Iceland
• 14 Day Epic Road Trip of the Complete Ring Road & the Westfjords
• Day 1-2: Arrival in Iceland & the Golden Circle
• Day 3: Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches
• Day 4: Ice Lagoon & Diamond Beach
• Day 5: The Charming Eastfjords
• Day 6: Lake Myvatn Mysteries
• Day 7: The Troll Peninsula
• Day 8: Westfjords Introduction
• Day 9: Deep Into the Westfjords
• Day 10: Dynjandi Waterfall & Latrabjarg Puffins
• Day 11: Ferry Ride to Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• Day 12: Exploring "Iceland in Miniature"
• Day 13: Exploring Caves & Waterfalls
• Day 14: A Day in Reykjavik

Driving around Iceland is an awe-inspiring experience. The ever-changing landscapes mean that, just through your car window from the road, you will be able to witness glacier tongues and volcanic peaks, lava fields and waterfalls, geothermal areas, and incredible stretches of black sand beaches.

By booking a customizable self-drive tour in Iceland , accommodation around the country will have been pre-arranged for you and you have the option of booking admission to various tours and activities along the way. This will save you valuable time and money and you can simply focus on enjoying the journey.

You can also rent a car in Iceland and book your own accommodation , but it is more expensive and time-consuming than booking a summer self-drive tour .

We have put together the perfect road trip for a 5-day , 7-day , 8-day , 10-day , and 14-day itinerary in Iceland. Therefore, you should be able to find just the right tour for you depending on how long you're staying.

Popular package tours

Scenic 4-day northern lights tour of vatnajokull ice cave, jokulsarlon & the south coast, amazing 5-day northern lights winter vacation package in iceland with ice caving & the blue lagoon, breathtaking 6-day northern lights hunting package of iceland with ice caving.

• Read The Ultimate Guide to Driving in Iceland before heading out on the road

Taking a planned trip to see the highlights of the country is an experience that is highly recommended to travelers in Iceland.

Not only will it expose you to its dramatic nature, but it will also give you the freedom to spend as little or as long at each location as you like, without concern for tour guides or other guests.

All you need in order to take a road trip is a member of your group who has a valid driver’s license and confidence in driving on country roads.

Firstly, you will need to reference Iceland's Met Office and check the weather forecast before setting out each day to see what the conditions are likely to be on the road and at your destination.

Secondly, you should also reference The Icelandic Road Administration to ensure that all roads are open.

Without further ado, read ahead to see the top five best road trips in Iceland based on how many days you have to enjoy them.

In just five days, you will be surprised by how many places you can visit and the sheer variety of the natural wonders you can see. around the country.

This 5-day self-drive tour in Iceland is the perfect way to explore some of its most famous attractions.

You'll have the freedom to visit incredible places at your own pace, including the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, Reynisfjara black sand beach, Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and many of Iceland's most famous waterfalls.

If you have extra time, you may choose to stop at the Blue Lagoon on your way to Reykjavik. This world-renowned spa is known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments, all set amidst a moss-covered lava field.

If you add the Blue Lagoon to your itinerary, it will be arranged according to your flight schedule. If you don't have time to visit the lagoon today, it can simply be added to another day.

The city center is very walkable and using a car to get around it is not recommended. Walk along the main street, shop at boutiques, sit down at a café, or dine at one of the many great restaurants in Reykjavik.

The first day outside Reykjavik will be spent exploring the country’s most famous sightseeing route, the Golden Circle .

The first stop on the trail is the UNESCO heritage site  Thingvellir National Park .

In 930 AD, the settlers of Iceland founded a national assembly at which they could reconcile their differences and make new laws, which they attended every year since. In the 19th century, the assembly moved to Reykjavik. However, Thingvellir retains the title of the founding site of what is now the world’s longest-running parliament still in existence.

Its historical and cultural relevance, however, is not the only thing that draws people to Thingvellir. It is also beloved for its geology.

The mid-Atlantic rift runs all the way through Iceland, leading to the country’s active volcanism, yet nowhere in the world can it be seen so clearly as here.

These fissures fill with spring water traveling through the porous basalt, which leads to the largest lake in Iceland, Thingvallavatn .

Because of the clarity of the water in these fissures, and the beautiful sites beneath the surface, you can book snorkeling tours in Thingvellir for those able to swim .

The ravine open to snorkelers is called Silfra and takes about forty minutes to swim through.

• See also: Diving and Snorkelling in Iceland

Once you have immersed yourself in the history and beauty of Thingvellir, you can hit the road once more and head to Haukadalur Valley, home of the Geysir Geothermal Area .

The largest geyser in the area is called Geysir - the one that granted all others their name. While this Geysir itself is mostly inactive, Strokkur , which sits right nearby, erupts every five to ten minutes to heights of over twenty meters.

This will give you plenty of photographic opportunities to see Iceland's geothermal power in action. Around the area are many smaller hot springs and bubbling mud pots.

Less than a ten-minute drive from the Geysir Geothermal Area is Iceland’s most iconic waterfall, Gullfoss .

Many sites surrounding the Golden Circle are within easy driving distance from Gullfoss and are well worth visiting if you have time.

The dramatic  crater lake of Kerid , for example, is under an hour's drive from Gullfoss. The contrasts here between the vivid red rock and the permanent pool of azure water barely look natural.

If you're still full of energy, you can opt for a snowmobile tour on a nearby glacier. If that doesn't appeal to you and you'd prefer to take it easy, go relax in the geothermal water of  the Secret Lagoon  before heading to your accommodation in the town of Selfoss .

You can approach this glacier tongue right to its edge, where you can marvel over the dramatic formations and the dazzling coloration of the ice blue and black veins that contrast beautifully with the white snow.

The black color comes from the ash dropped after the 2010 volcanic eruption of Eyjafjallajokull .

It is imperative that you never climb on a glacier without a guide. But you can easily pre-book a glacier hike on Solheimajokull to your itinerary.

• See also: Glaciers and Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Continuing along Route 1, you will soon see a dramatic feature curving out into the ocean from a range of cliffs: the Dyrholaey Rock Arch .

From a distance, its scale is incredible, yet it is even better up close. Throughout the year, you can see hexagonal basalt columns here, and in the summer months, thousands of nesting puffins.

Reynisfjara beach is as renowned for its striking beauty as it is for its sneaker waves .

Make sure you heed the signs, and stay away from the edge of the water, regardless of the time of the year and weather.

From a safe distance, you will still be able to see the Reynisdrangar  sea stacks towering from the ocean near the arch, all that is left of three trolls that, according to legend, turned to stone by the light of the morning sun.

From there, you will head to the Skaftafell Nature Reserve , nestled under the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull . The area has a wide array of walking paths and hikes of various difficulty levels.

You have the opportunity to hike 3 miles (5 kilometers) towards the amazing Svartifoss waterfall, known for its black hexagonal basalt columns.

You will spend the night in Vatnajokull National Park.

The water is filled with floating icebergs that break off the nearby Breidarmerkurjokull glacier  as the meltwater flows toward the ocean.

While there, you have the opportunity to go on a 1-hour zodiac boat tour on the glacier lagoon and see the massive icebergs up close, as well as the curious seals that swim around in the lagoon.

From there, you can drive to the alluring Diamond Beach , where icebergs of various sizes float upon a shore, creating an eye-popping contrast between the shiny ice and the black beach.

• See also: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon | Iceland's Crown Jewel

When you have explored the incredible wonders of southeast Iceland, you can start driving back to your choice of accommodation in Reykjavik.

On the way to Reykjavik, you can stop along the many attractions along Route 1 if you have time. You can stop by the beautiful  Foss a Sidu waterfall  or explore the mysterious Dverghamrar cliffs  while enjoying the drive toward the capital.

If you have time, you can buy various souvenirs or a traditional  lopapeysa  knit jumper at Laugavegur , the main shopping street in the city.

On the way to the airport, you also have the opportunity to visit the famous hot spring spa, the Blue Lagoon, if you skipped it on your first day (or just go again!), which is located just a 30-minute drive from the airport.

The mineral-rich geothermal waters of the azure-colored lagoon will make you feel relaxed after an eventful trip to Iceland as you get ready to go to the airport and take the wonderful memories with you home.

If you want to experience the best of Iceland in just five days, make sure to book this fun 5-day road trip in Iceland right now!

Popular self-drive tours

10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes, best 1-week summer self-drive tour of the ring road of iceland & golden circle, best 7-day northern lights self drive tour through south iceland to jokulsarlon ice cave.

In addition to visiting all three national parks in Iceland, you will see plenty of waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs along the way. For those looking for thrills, you can add activities such as exploring a volcano's magma chamber or snowmobiling on Langjokull glacier at a discounted price, making it both budget-friendly and fun.

If you're lucky enough to spend a whole week in the land of ice and fire, this is the perfect 7-day itinerary in Iceland.

This world-renowned geothermal spa is known for its healing waters, vivid blue colors, and luxurious treatments. Its location in the middle of a moss-covered lava field gives it an otherworldly atmosphere.

If you don't have time to visit the Blue Lagoon on your first day, it can simply be added at a later date. Just contact our travel consultants, and they will happily set it up for you.

• Read more: Top 10 Things to Do in Reykjavik

The city center of Reykjavik is highly walkable, so you can simply park your car and enjoy a stroll around town, visiting landmarks such as Hallgrimskirkja church  or  Harpa Concert Hall .

You can also do some shopping at Laugavegur street or enjoy the local cuisine at one of the many great restaurants in Reykjavik.

Before heading north, you can be part of a mind-blowing excursion down into the magma chamber of Thrihnukagigur volcano .

When you're ready to start your road trip, drive Route 1 north to the town of  Borgarnes , and then continue north on Route 54, the road which encircles the peninsula.

Borgarnes is a great place to stop and get supplies or coffee before continuing. This charming town is also home to the Settlement Center , which has two exhibitions on Iceland’s early history.

Photo by Chensiyuan, from Wikimedia Creative Commons

One of the exhibitions is about the settlement era of Iceland's history when brave voyagers from Scandinavia settled on the island. The other exhibition explores ‘ Egil’s Saga ’ about the great warrior-poet Egill Skalla-Grímsson. This site, therefore, is not to be missed by lovers of Viking history or literature.

• See also: Icelandic Literature for Beginners

Along the peninsula's south coast, you will find  Ytri-Tunga beach , a stretch of coast by a farm of the same name. This is one of Iceland’s most reliable seal-watching destinations .

Just a few meters from the shore, you will see chunks of lava rock jutting from the ocean, and basking on these as if on foam mattresses, you are likely to see a few members of the colony hauling out.

The world within is quite as magical as you will discover a mossy grotto with a stream trickling its way through.

It is possible to get a little way into the ravine, but only for those with sturdy hiking shoes, waterproof clothing, and a lot of ambition. It is an impossible feat to achieve without clambering up a little waterfall and getting quite wet.

As you continue along the road, the mighty Snaefellsjokull glacier will start to materialize before you.

Near the glacier, you can go explore the lava tubes of Vatnshellir cave on a guided tour through this 650 feet (200 meters) long cave.

The fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar sit within the shadow of the snowy twin peaks.

Both of these are quaint settlements with fascinating histories, but they are best known for their beautiful coastal scenery. As ever-growing stops for visitors, both also have restaurants you can refuel at.

Near the mighty glacier, you can make a stop at Skarðsvík beach . This beautiful inlet, surrounded by cliffs, is reached by following a short trail. With its golden sands and blue waters, it will barely feel like you are still in Iceland.

Your main destination, however, should be  Kirkjufell Mountain , near the town of Grundarfjordur .

Often called ‘the most photographed mountain in Iceland,’ Kirkjufell is a beautiful stand-alone peak, made even more charming by the waterfall Kirkjufellsfoss which trickles nearby.

You can go for a midnight sun kayaking tour under the iconic mountain if you're visiting during the summer when the sun keeps shining through the evening.

As you continue east along the northern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, you will cross over the Berserkjahraun lava fields , a place with a dark history of trickery and cold-blooded murder.

You can finish your adventure on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula at the fishing village of Stykkishólmur .

This settlement is rich in folklore and fishing culture, so it is a great place to grab a fresh bite and learn a little more about Iceland’s past.

The first stop on the circle is the historic Thingvellir National Park. The world's longest-running representative parliament was founded here in the year 930 AD, by Iceland's early settlers.

In addition to its historical significance, it is located in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where two tectonic plates drift apart. In fact, you can walk right between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates while visiting Thingvellir.

If you're feeling bold, you can even go snorkeling in a crystal clear ravine located between the two plates, called Silfra.

This valley of hot springs and fumaroles is home to the famous Geysir and its much more active neighbor Strokkur. While the former is largely inactive, the latter blasts water over 66 ft (20 m) high every five to ten minutes.

The final stop on the Golden Circle route is the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall. Widely considered the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland, with a name that translates to "Golden Falls," which actually gives the Golden Circle its name.

Gullfoss waterfall drops down 105 feet (32 meters) into a narrow river gorge via two tiers. Make sure to stay within the fence of the viewing platform for safety. You'll still be very close to the powerful stream of this waterfall.

On sunny days, the waterfall gets crowned by a perpetual rainbow, which just adds to the natural beauty of this wonder.

Photo by Laila Gebhard

If you have a thirst for adventure, you can add a visit to Vidgelmir lava cave  to your itinerary. This 1-hour guided tour is very beginner-friendly (even for children!), as this lava cave is not dark and compact, but has a wide space with countless icicles, and mesmerizing rock formations.

If you're the thrill-seeking type, you could go for a snowmobiling tour of Langjokull glacier , which departs directly from Gullfoss waterfall.

However, if you feel you've done enough exploring for the day and want to take it easy, you can head to the serene  Secret Lagoon , close to the town of Fludir .

You also have the option of heading to the geothermal spa at Laugarvatn Fontana , which has a beautiful lake view.

Your accommodation for the night will be in the vicinity of the Golden Circle route.

After the Golden Circle, this is Iceland’s second-most popular sightseeing route, and as can be expected, it is lined with features.

As long as your going southward, it is recommended that you make a stop at the crater Kerid on the way to admire the spectacular fiery coloration of the mineral-rich rock surrounding the vivid blue lake resting at its bottom.

From there, you can stop at the town of Selfoss for a quick bite and then continue along Route 1 until you arrive at  Seljalandsfoss waterfall , one of the country’s most beloved falls.

It is particularly unique due to the fact that it falls from a concave cliff. Also, if the conditions are safe, it is possible to take a walk fully encircling the cascade.

A site often overlooked, however, which is within easy walking distance, is another waterfall called  Gljufrabui . Nestled in a cliff, it requires you to walk up a ravine into a grotto, where you can marvel at it tumbling from above.

Continuing east along Route 1, you will pass in the shadow of the notorious  Eyjafjallajokull volcano .

This was the volcano that erupted in 2010, causing enormous problems with air travel and generating a large amount of international attention on Iceland while twisting the tongues of news anchors around the world.

The next site you will stop at, however, is another waterfall, Skogafoss .

Over sixty meters high and twenty meters wide at its heaviest flow, it cascades off a cliff in one drop, thundering to the earth with enormous power.

By taking a short drive over to Skogar Museum , you can hike to a fourth and final waterfall, this one’s even lesser known than Gljufrabui.

Kvernufoss falls is located in a hidden gorge not far away, and though it cannot be encircled like Seljalandsfoss, it is also possible to stand behind the water flow.

• See also: Waterfalls in Iceland

The next major attraction following these waterfalls is Solheimajokull glacier , a tongue of the greater Myrdalsjokull (which, it should be noted, covers an even more explosive volcano than Eyjafjallajokull, Katla ).

You can approach this glacier tongue right to its edge, where you can marvel over the dramatic formations and the coloration of the ice. With blue and black veins that contrast beautifully with the white snow.

The black color comes from the ash dropped after the 2010 volcanic eruption of Eyjafjallajökull.

It is imperative that you never climb on a glacier without a guide. There are, however, opportunities to take a  guided hike upon Solheimajokull , if you wish.

• See also: Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing in Iceland

The landscapes south of the glacier are of desert-like black sands due to the floods that flash through this area whenever an eruption occurs beneath Myrdalsjokull.

Nearby you will find  Reynisfjara black sand beach , with its basalt columns, cliffs, and striking black sand. Make sure to heed all warnings about safety on the beach, as sneaker waves can be dangerous.

From a safe distance, you will still be able to see the Reynisdrangar  sea stacks towering from the ocean near the arch, all that is left of three trolls, as the legend goes, that turned to stone by the light of the morning sun.

Along the way, you'll pass stark volcanic deserts and have an incredible view of the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull .

On your way to Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, you can stop at the charming village of  Kirkjubaejarklaustur  for a short hike or a bite to eat.

Further ahead, you should head into the beautiful Skaftafell Nature Reserve within Vatnajokull National Park, the largest national park in Iceland. This area has many hikes, including toward the unique waterfall Svartifoss , which tumbles off a cliff of hexagonal basalt columns.

You'll finish the day at the stunning Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where you'll surely want to spend some time admiring icebergs as they float slowly to the ocean.

This area is considered by many to be Iceland's most beautiful spot, and for a good reason. If you wish to get closer to the bergs in the lagoon, you can opt for a boat tour that will take you right out to them, either in an amphibious boat or a zodiac.

From the glacier lagoon, you can take a short walk toward the so-called Diamond Beach in Iceland . This black sand beach is where icebergs of varying sizes float upon the shore, creating a stark contrast between the black volcanic sand and the sparkling white ice.

You'll stay the night at a charming countryside hotel near Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon this evening.

Otherwise, it is a long drive back to Reykjavík, so it's best to start early.

On your return journey, you can revisit your favorite spots along the way or stop by some of the villages and towns along the south coast. Many of Iceland's locations have a completely different beauty at different times of the day or when the weather has changed.

The town of Hveragerdi has beautiful geothermal areas surrounding it, which are worth a visit. You can even go on a 3-hour hot springs horse riding tour exploring the area if you have the time.

• Read more: The Icelandic Horse - A Comprehensive Guide

If you feel like you've done enough exploring, you can also simply drive to Reykjavik early and enjoy a day of culture and cuisine in the northernmost capital city in the world and make the most of your last night in Iceland.

Soak in the city's summer atmosphere and explore the charming downtown area. Check out Hallgrimskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, or the Solfarid Viking Ship sculpture . You can also simply enjoy walking around the area, which is very easy to get around.

For dinner, you will have a lot of great restaurants to choose from, whether you're looking for an exotic fusion menu or something more traditional. Since it's your last night, why not splurge on something you won't forget?

At the end of the night, you will stay in your accommodation in Reykjavik.

If you have an early flight, it's wise to be at the airport at least two hours before departure, so plan accordingly.

However, if you have a late flight and want to make the most of it, we definitely recommend visiting one of Iceland's famous hot spring spas before you head off to the airport.

You have the opportunity to visit the Sky Lagoon , located in the town of Kopavogur just outside Reykjavik, within a 10-15 minute drive from the city center. We recommend booking full access to Sky Lagoon so you can enjoy all their facilities.

There you can enjoy the warm geothermal waters while enjoying the amazing views of Skerjafjordur bay from the lagoon's infinity pool. If you're up for it, you can also hit the glacial pool, steam room, sauna, and cold mist room that are located on the premises.

This is a great place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters while you look back on the incredible adventure you have just taken part in.

Whether you go for the Sky Lagoon or the Blue Lagoon, when you arrive at the airport, you will feel relaxed, with a mind full of memories that will stay with you for a long time.

If you have a week to spend in Iceland and want to use this itinerary, book this unforgettable 7-day road trip in Iceland now!

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Therefore, on this unforgettable 8-day self-drive tour around Iceland , you can visit the most popular destinations in Iceland by the famous Ring Road.

By booking this self-drive tour with an 8-day itinerary, you will visit every corner of Iceland, and not just the areas closest to Reykjavik, giving you a great overview of all the different things to see and do in the country.

Exploring the popular Golden Circle and South Coast, as well as the less-visited and more remote Eastfjords and Snaefellsnes peninsula, this 8-day itinerary in Iceland really gives you the best of both worlds.

To start things off, you can either start driving through the lunar-like landscape of Reykjanes peninsula toward Reykjavik or make the first stop on your journey at the famous Blue Lagoon.

This incredible hot spring spa is known for its warm geothermal waters, vivid azure colors, and various spa treatments available for guests.

The lagoon has a swim-up bar where visitors can enjoy drinks while soaking in its healing waters, and there is also the option of eating at the restaurant located on the premises.

As you arrive in Reykjavik, your accommodations will be pre-arranged for you, making everything as simple as can be. Once you're settled in at your hotel, you can head out and enjoy the rest of the day in Iceland's capital city.

We recommend taking a stroll in the walkable city center and visiting some of the local shops and cafés on Laugarvegur street.

This day sends you to some of the best-known natural wonders in Iceland via the famous sightseeing route known as the Golden Circle.

Your first stop on this route is Thingvellir National Park . The world's oldest working parliament, Althingi, was founded here in 930 AD, and it is also where Iceland converted to Christianity in the year 1000 and declared its independence from Denmark in 1944.

Iceland is only one of a few places where the ridge is above ground where you can actually stand on it, and nowhere is that more clear than at Thingvellir.

If you're feeling brave, you can opt for a snorkeling tour into the Silfra fissure , a crystal-clear ravine of incredible underwater vistas that runs between the Eurasian and North-American tectonic plates.

• Read more: Snorkeling Between Continents - Silfra Fissure

Just a few kilometers away is the namesake of the Golden Circle, the mighty waterfall of Gullfoss, which translates to "Golden Falls." A pathway takes you to the water's edge, where you can get a real sense of the incredible power of these enormous falls.

From Gullfoss, those with a sense of adventure can hop on an optional snowmobiling tour on Langjokull glacier .

If neither a snorkeling tour nor a snowmobiling tour appeals to you, you could go for a 2-hour horse riding tour and get to know the friendly Icelandic horse while exploring southern Iceland.

As you travel further east on the Ring Road along the south coast, you will see Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

This unique waterfall looks great from afar and up close...real close! In fact, you can walk around the waterfall itself within a cave nestled behind the tumbling water.

As you continue on along Route 1, you will arrive at the mighty and mesmerizing Skogafoss waterfall, a behemoth of a waterfall with a 200 feet (60 meters) drop and a width nearly half its height.

Once you've taken in the majesty of Skogafoss (and plenty of pictures!), keep driving the same route east until your reach the quiet village of Vik where your accommodation is located.

However, be very careful of the ocean as the waves along this stretch of coast are notoriously unpredictable and dangerous. Make sure to heed all warnings at the location and never get too close to the ocean, even if it makes for a great picture, it's not worth it!

You can spend as long as you like at the beach until you're ready to hit the hay and get ready for tomorrow's journey.

Photo by Regína Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir

After waking up in the charming village of Vik, get some breakfast, refuel the car if necessary, and then head to the beautiful Skaftafell Nature Reserve, located within the greater Vatnajokull National Park.

You can choose to start your day with a visit to the natural ice cave within Myrdalsjokull glacier . These electric-blue ice caves form naturally and are usually only accessible in the winter season. This particular ice cave, however, is also accessible in the summer, so don't miss the opportunity to visit.

As the sun shines through the thick layers of ice, it illuminates the inside of the cave, creating brilliant colors and lighting up crystallized ice. There's nothing like it!

Photo from  Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking Super Jeep Tour of Katla

Once you're in Skaftafell, you can spend your time taking in the many stunning sights and exciting activities that are available. If you're a hiker, whether amateur or experienced, you will find countless scenic trails and tracks here, including one that leads to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall.

The hike from the visitor center to Svartifoss waterfall is just about 1 mile (1.5 kilometers), making it highly accessible.

When hiking toward the waterfall, you will pass three smaller waterfalls along the way, making the walk up the river's east bank more enjoyable and giving you plenty of photography opportunities!

Approximately 11% of Iceland's land surface is covered in glaciers. Traversing these ice giants on foot is an unforgettable experience and rewarding for anyone that gives it a go.

As you continue your road trip, you'll find yourself by one of Iceland's most famous and dazzling attractions, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

The glacier lagoon is called such because it's a lake that is filled with the meltwater of an outlet glacier.

These icebergs, other than their size, are notable for their coloration. Although they are, as expected, largely white, most are also electric blue in part, with black streaks of ash from eruptions centuries past.

However, even from the shore, the lagoon is stunning, and you have a good chance to see seals playing around in the water. After you have enjoyed the lagoon, you can take a short walk to the nearby Diamond Beach.

At this beach is where ice caps wash up on the shore and sparkle like gemstones in the sun, giving the beach its name.

When you're ready, you can start heading toward your resting spot for the night, the fishing village of Hofn in the southeast of Iceland.

On the fourth day of your road trip, you will explore the incredible fjords of East Iceland.

This remote part of the country is little traveled, meaning your road trip here is likely to be without traffic, and the places you stop at most likely won't have large crowds.

The Eastfjords are spectacular in and of themselves. The mountains of the east are monumental, and the bays are sparkling and beautiful.

The fishing villages you will pass through are sleepy and idyllic, and the nature is spectacular.

• Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Iceland's East Fjords

In the sea, you have a better chance to spot whales and dolphins from shore than much of the rest of the country.

Along the coast, you may see seals, as well as many seabirds, including puffins, nest in the cliffs. East Iceland is also the only region of the country where wild reindeer roam.

Traveling along Route 1 will expose you to a wealth of incredible vistas and nature opportunities.

It is not just the wildlife and landscapes that are of interest, however. The first major settlement you will come to is  the village of Djupivogur . Though it is home to less than five hundred people, it is renowned for its art and its ethos.

The Eggs of Merry Bay is a series of outdoor sculptures that line the coast just to the west of the town.

The artist who created them, Sigurður Guðmundsson, modeled each of the thirty-four pieces after the eggs of the different bird species that nest in the area.

Continuing along Route 1, you will pass through the charming village of Breiddalsvik , admiring its black sand beaches and beautiful ocean views before the road curves inland.

From there, you can go to Iceland’s largest forest Hallormsstadaskogur . This verdant area has many hiking and biking routes and great spots for birdwatching.

Before reaching the largest settlement in the region, Egilsstadir , you will also pass  Lake Lagarfljot .

Those interested in cryptozoology should spend time exploring this legendary lake. The waters are said to hold a terrifying wyrm creature called Lagarfljotsormurinn, or the Lagarfljot Wyrm.

Sightings of the Lagarfjot Wyrm have been reported since 1345 all the way to the 21st century, making it a long-lasting legend of the region (and even older than the Loch Ness monster!).

You will be spending the night in the Egilsstadir area, but the drive is short, giving you plenty of time to visit various places in the surrounding area.

Driving directly along the suggested route, without stops, should take less than three and a half hours. It is thus a good idea to check out some of the  great places to visit in the Eastfjords .

If you'd rather take some time and relax out in the beautiful nature of East Iceland, you should visit the Vok Baths geothermal spa , which beautifully incorporates its environment into its design, making you feel like you're bathing in nature.

Additionally, there is Lake Urridavatn, which guests are free to hop in, while visiting the spa. The lake has exceptionally clean water, and there's no better feeling than going from swimming in the cold lake to soaking in the warm geothermal pools.

End the day in Egilsstadir, the so-called "Capital of the East," and rest up before continuing up north the following morning.

Photo by Gestur Pálsson, from Wikimedia Creative Commons .

After waking up in Egilsstadir, get ready to continue your road trip, as today is all about North Iceland and exploring the so-called Diamond Circle sightseeing route .

First off, you will take the Ring Road north towards Lake Myvatn. En route, however, you will find yourself passing by the great canyon  Jokulsargljufur .

This canyon, within the large Vatnajokull National Park, is home to Europe’s second most powerful waterfall Dettifoss , as well as the smaller but still very impressive Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss .

Dettifoss is a staggering 330 feet (100 meters) wide and sends an impressive 7,000 cubic feet (200 cubic meters) of water per second tumbling down a 144-foot (44-meter) cliff.

This incredible display of nature's power creates a thundering roar as the water crashes down the gorge, which is only known by those who witness it.

The waterfall's name directly translates to "Tumbling Falls" and was featured in the opening sequence of the Hollywood blockbuster Prometheus in 2012.

From there, you go to the region of Lake Myvatn , which is renowned for its diverse terrain.

The lake is surrounded by a range of geological formations, including geothermal hot springs, volcanic craters, and lava fields. Visitors to the area can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and exploring the surrounding areas, which are home to a variety of bird species, including many rare species.

An unmissable characteristic of the area is the beautiful Skutustadagigar pseudo-craters .

A half-hour drive from the lake, you can see the geothermal area of Namaskard , which is connected to the Krafla volcano system and home to many gushing hot springs and bubbling fumaroles.

The lack of vegetation on the slopes of Namaskard is caused by the heat beneath the earth, acidity in the soil, and the expulsion of poisonous fumes. Nevertheless, the site is far from dull, with its vividly colored earth streaked by elements brought up with the steam.

You could also go visit the Dimmuborgir lava formations , directly translated to the "Black Fortress" because of the tall and menacing shapes of the hardened lava.

Afterward, unwind in the tranquil geothermal waters of the Myvatn Nature Baths , the perfect way to recharge after a long day of exploration. The water is rich in minerals such as silica and sulfur, which are known for their therapeutic benefits.

Then, make your way to Akureyri, the charming "Capital of the North," where you'll spend the night.

Day 6: Exploring the "Capital of the North"

Akureyri is the second-largest urban area in Iceland and is often referred to as the "Capital of North Iceland." It's surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including snow-capped mountains and the sparkling waters of the fjord of Eyjafjordur .

If you missed it the previous day, you could take a whale-watching tour in Akureyri and see the many great mammals swimming in the fjord of Eyjafjordur, which is among the best spots in Iceland to see the friendly giants of the sea.

A short drive north of Akureyri, you will find the Gasir farm, where you can opt for a fun horse-riding tour and explore the nature of the Trollaskagi peninsula on foot (or hooves, to be exact).

If you haven't experienced it already, riding on the Icelandic horse is a great way to get to know the country, as horses have been a part of Iceland's history just as long as humans have.

From the time the first Norse settlers set foot on land, the Icelandic horse has been the trusty companion of Icelanders and the transportation of choice for the major part of its history.

Photo from  Scenic 1-hour Horseback Riding Tour from Gasir Farm in Northern Iceland

The Icelandic horse is kid-friendly, sure-footed and is known worldwide for its fifth gait, the so-called "tolt."

On this peninsula, you can also find the unique Beer Spa , where you have the opportunity to bathe in...yes, beer!

In the spa, you can soak away the stress of modern life by relaxing in a bath of warm, young beer and live beer yeast. To add to the experience, you can do so with a cold beer in your hand that was brewed on location.

The designated driver need not worry, as the tub of warm beer will not increase the alcohol level in your blood!

Here, you can unwind in the town's geothermal infinity pool while admiring the magnificent scenery.

As the day draws to a close, you'll spend the night in a hotel close to the town of Saudarkrokur.

Your first stop once you leave Saudarkrokur  should definitely be the cliff of Hvitserkur (pictured above), which is a unique rock formation just off the shore of Husafjordur bay.

Its distinct shape has been compared to some kind of mythical animal or a rhinoceros having a drink of water. Once you've taken in the view and snapped off some pictures, it's time to continue, as you have plenty of driving to do today.

• Read more: The Majestic Hvitserkur Sea Stack

About a 2-hour drive from Hvitserkur, you will come upon Deildartunguhver , a geothermal area that's definitely worth a visit.

Photo by Javier Rodríguez, from Wikimedia Creative Commons .

It is known for being the most powerful hot spring in Europe, producing about 50 gallons (180 liters) of boiling water per second. The water is piped to nearby towns for heating, making it an important source of geothermal energy.

Further ahead, don't miss the enchanting Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

Hraunfossar, which translates to "Lava Falls," garners its name because t he waterfall consists of small streams of water flowing at the edge of the Hallmundarhraun lava field  into the river Hvita below.

These waterfalls can be observed from a nearby viewing platform, making it a perfect opportunity for some nature photography.

It is a wonderful site in and of itself, twisting, turning, foaming and churning as it races down a narrow valley, from which you can view it from above. We recommend making this stop on the way to Reykjavik, as it's an easy way to visit two beautiful waterfalls in one stop.

Photo by Pjt56, from Wikimedia Creative Commons .

Those interested in history can take a detour to Snorrastofa , a medieval research institute in Reykholt , where Snorri Sturluson , one of Iceland's most prominent historical figures, wrote the famous Edda, from which most of our knowledge about Norse mythology comes.

If time allows, opt for an exhilarating caving tour of the Vídgelmir lava tubes or venture into the awe-inspiring man-made ice tunnels of Langjokull glacier .

Langjokull is the second-largest glacier in Iceland and in it, you will find a long man-made carved-out ice tunnel with multiple rooms and pathways.

Photo from  Exhilarating 10-Hour Into the Glacier Ice Caving Tour in Langjokull

When the sunlight shines on the glacier through multiple layers of ice, it lights up the cave with a bright blue color, making the surroundings look otherworldly.

You can even take an 'Inside the Volcano' tour , where you slowly descend into the colorful magma chamber of the dormant volcano Thrihnukagigur .

If you still want something to do before reaching Reykjavik, you can visit the Icelandic Settlement Center in Borgarnes , which chronicles the history of Iceland's settlement in the 9th and 10th centuries.

Once you reach Reykjavik, you can enjoy some of the nightlife in the city center if you don't have an early flight. There are a lot of fun bars and clubs to check out on the main street of Laugavegur and adjacent streets.

However, those who have a later flight can use the opportunity and go visit a geothermal hot spring spa today.

Just a 10-15 minute drive from Reykjavik's city center, you can visit the Sky Lagoon . This geothermal spa opened in 2021 and features a sauna, a steam room, a cold mist room, a cold plunge pool, and an amazing hot spring infinity pool overlooking Skerjafjordur bay.

At the lagoon, there is a swim-up bar offering refreshments for visitors and inside the facilities, you can have a nice meal before heading to the airport at the Sky Café bistro.

• Read more: Iceland's Blue Lagoon: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Established in 1987, it is the perfect place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters as look back on your incredible adventure in the land of fire and ice.

If this Ring Road adventure is for you, make sure to book this amazing 8-day self-drive tour around Iceland now!

Popular tours

Best ice cave tour in vatnajokull glacier starting from jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, inside the volcano thrihnukagigur tour with transfer from reykjavik, small group tour of snaefellsnes national park with transfer from reykjavik.

But the best part is you can take your time, stop as long as you want at each destination and make impulse decisions on the fly while traveling around the country.

This amazing 10-day self-drive tour around Iceland takes you to both popular destinations, which are a must-see, as well as less-visited places that are hidden gems. These include the famous Golden Circle, the striking black sand beaches of the South Coast, the sheer variety of attractions on Snaefellsnes peninsula, and the remote fjords in the east of Iceland.

Read on and discover all the things you can do with this perfect 10-day itinerary in Iceland.

While en route to Iceland's capital city, you may choose to visit the Blue Lagoon , a world-renowned spa known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments. It is conveniently located just a half-hour drive from the airport, close to the town of Grindavik .

Adding the Blue Lagoon to your itinerary can easily be done in one click. If you don't have time to visit the lagoon today, you will have another chance to visit it during your last couple of days in Iceland.

Spend the night in the lovely city of Reykjavik and get ready for the journey that lies ahead.

The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, where you can stroll between the Mid-Atlantic Ridge's rift valley and explore an area that played a significant role in Iceland's heritage.

Geologists from all over the world make a pilgrimage to Thingvellir because of its unique location between the North American tectonic plate and the Eurasian tectonic plate. As these two massive plates slowly drift apart, they form all kinds of rifts and cracks in the ground.

And when we say slowly, we mean very slowly, as the two tectonic plates drift apart less than 1 inch per year (about 1-2 centimeters).

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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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Travel Tips for Iceland

The Best Iceland 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary: Summer + Winter

We rarely see travellers coming over to Iceland (whether they’re travelling from North America or Europe) who stay for only a day or two. Most trips to Iceland include a stay of at least a week (seven days) or more, as seven days typically gives travellers enough time to see a good majority of the island. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that you can see all of Iceland during a one-week Iceland holiday. 

Iceland is a big country, despite its small size in relation to some of the other most popular travel destinations around the globe, and you’ll have to pick and choose what you see during your 7 days in Iceland. Make the right choices, and you’ll enjoy an amazing 7 days in Iceland filled with the best of the best the country has to offer and our top sights and sounds. But! Choose poorly, and you may find yourself leaving without seeing much of anything.

To help you make the most of your one-week holiday in Iceland, the local experts at Lava Car Rental are here with their best tips, tricks and recommendations for an Iceland road trip for seven days. We’ll answer your questions about what is the best road trip itinerary for seven days in Iceland, what are the must-see attractions during a one-week holiday in Iceland, as well as how much to budget for seven days in Iceland. And, of course, we’ll give you some professional tips on renting your car in Iceland. 

So, without further ado, here are the best Iceland 7-day self-driving itineraries for both summer and winter, as well as our best advice for spending a week in Iceland. 

Go to chapter

3 things you need to know before you plan a one-week road trip itinerary in iceland.

• How Much Should I Budget for 7 Days in Iceland?
• The Best 7-Day Summer Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

The Best 7-day Winter Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

• Tips From the Locals: Renting Your Car in Iceland

We can’t wait to welcome you to Iceland!

But first, before you start planning your 7-day itinerary for Iceland, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. You don’t want to travel the Ring Road

While Iceland’s Ring Road is an extremely popular route for Iceland road trips, it’s simply too much to see over seven days. You’d be spending more time in the car than you would actually enjoy all that Iceland has to offer. 

So, with that in mind, we recommend that, if you only have 7 days total to spend in Iceland, including your arrival and departure days, you should focus on travelling around the South Coast , Iceland’s Golden Circle Route and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula . Doing so will give you plenty of time to enjoy your trip at a more leisurely pace (and if you do have your heart absolutely set on travelling Iceland’s Ring Road, we recommend extending your stay to 10 days , at least).

2. Pick the right vehicle for your time of visit

To ensure the utmost safety and comfort, you want to pick the right vehicle for your Iceland road trip . What vehicle is right for your trip will all depend upon the season in which you’re visiting. 

If you’re travelling from late May to early September, which is Iceland’s summer months, you’ll be safe with a smaller, 2WD vehicle . However, suppose you're travelling to Iceland at any other time of the year. In that case, you’ll want to choose a 4x4 vehicle that can handle the snow, ice and other inclement weather that occurs in Iceland throughout the fall, winter and spring. 

3. Book your car rental ASAP

Whenever you start planning a trip to Iceland, and you know you’ll be doing a 7-day Iceland road trip, you want to go ahead and book your rental car as soon as possible. This is especially the case in the summer months when travelling to Iceland is particularly popular. We usually advise travellers to book their vehicle at least one month in advance of their trip; if not, they may find fewer vehicles from which to choose, as well as higher car rental rates. Additionally, if travellers wait any longer than this to book their vehicle in the summer, they may find no campervans available at all.

How Much Should I Budget for 7 Days in Iceland? 

There’s no one answer to how much you should budget for being in Iceland for 7 days. That’s because your costs will differ heavily depending upon the months in which you travel. As noted, summertime is Iceland’s busiest travel season, so, as you might expect, travel costs are higher in the summer as well. Winter is always the cheapest season for travelling to Iceland, so if you want to visit Iceland on a budget , your best bet is to travel here between October and April.

In general, though, no matter what season you visit Iceland, the country is a more expensive destination as compared to some other regions of the world you might visit, such as the Caribbean or Southeast Asia. While it's true that you can find many affordable flights to Iceland from Europe and North America, once you arrive in Iceland, the costs of things like ground transportation, lodging, food and activities are all relatively high.

In order to save money during your trip to Iceland , it’s wise to think about your costs as you plan out your 7-day itinerary for Iceland. Think about which activities you really want to do most and then maybe cut out some other costly activities that you're not really interested in. You can also save money by opting to  rent a campervan  if you're visiting in the summer, as that will save you money on lodging and transportation, as it combines both into one cost. It will also allow you to see more of the island at your own pace, as we detail in our  full guide to renting a campervan in Iceland . 

Otherwise, try to look for more local-oriented activities (versus tourist-geared activities), shop for groceries and attempt to make some of your meals yourself, purchase any alcoholic beverages at the airport before you enter the country and look to more affordable accommodation options such as hostels and home rentals rather than hotels.

For more information on the cost of living in Iceland and what you can expect, you can see a full breakdown of prices  here . On average, the cost of living in Iceland is about 43% higher than it is in the United States. 

Read our guide to travelling in Iceland on a budget  for more advice on getting around the country as affordably as possible. 

The Best 7-Day Summer Iceland Road Trip Itinerary 

While travelling to Iceland during the summer is more expensive, it also comes with a wealth of benefits. From May to early September, Iceland’s weather is much more agreeable. The road conditions are more easily navigable, and plenteous daylight hours allow for more time to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. Road conditions are safer, outdoor activities like hiking are more easily accessible and getting around is just easier in general. Driving around Iceland in the summer is usually simple for even the most novice drivers. 

The best route for self-driving in Iceland for seven days in Summertime (May ~ Early September)

See the itinerary on Google Maps

For an Iceland trip with an itinerary of 7 days, we’d advise the following schedule:

• Day 1: The Blue Lagoon & Reykjavik
• Day 2: The Golden Circle/Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• Day 3: Snaefellsnes Peninsula/The Golden Circle
• Day 4: The South Coast
• Day 5: Vik to Jokulsarlon
• Day 6: Hofn to Reykjavik
• Day 7: Heading Back Home

Let's go into detail.

You’ll arrive in Iceland at the Keflavik Airport , the only airport in Iceland that receives incoming international travellers. From there, you’re only a short drive from the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most popular attractions and a can’t-miss experience. Grab your rental car in Keflavik  and then drive on out to the Blue Lagoon for a few hours spent enjoying the huge thermal hot springs surrounded by lava rock. Once done, you can head on into Reykjavik and check in to your hotel there. 

• Day 2: The Golden Circle

Keep your accommodations in Reykjavik for the next few days, as you’ll spend Days 2 and 3 of your self-driving trip in Iceland exploring the Golden Circle and Snaefellsnes Peninsula . These routes are close enough to Reykjavik that you can easily stay in the city for the first part of your 7-day Iceland itinerary. 

Dedicate your second day to the Golden Circle, which only takes a little over 3 hours to drive; dedicating an entire day to the Circle will allow you plenty of time to stop, get out of the car and explore. Popular spots on the route to not miss include Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss and Geysir. 

• Day 3: Snaefellsnes Peninsula 

On your third day, you can travel a little further north to drive around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula while still keeping your hotel accommodations in nearby Reykjavik. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is known for its gorgeous landscapes, black sand beaches and mountain views. 

Stops to include in your day-long trip around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula include Hellnar Beach, the Longdrangar basalt cliffs, the Malariff Lighthouse, Djupalonssandur Beach and Mount Kirkjufell.

• Day 4: The South Coast 

On Day 4 of your Iceland 7-day itinerary, it’s time to check out of your hotel in Reykjavik and head to the South Coast . The drive between Reykjavik and Vik (where you'll be staying on your fourth night) is only about 3 hours, but you’ll want to stop plenty and enjoy the sights. 

Some of the top spots to stop along the route include Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Seljavallalaug Hot Pool, Skogafoss Waterfall, the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck and the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. 

• Day 5: Vik to Jokulsarlon 

On Day 5, you’ll be driving from Vik to Jokulsarlon, so go ahead and check out of your Vik hotel. During the drive, be sure to stop by Fjadrargljufur Canyon, Skaftafell National Park, the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Hofn and Diamond Beach. At night, you’ll want to have booked a hotel in either Hofn or Jokulsarlon. 

• Day 6: Hofn to Reykjavik 

On the last full day of your trip, you’ll want to make your way back to Reykjavik from Hofn. The drive is about six hours, but you can still make time to stop along the journey to visit some extra sites, particularly if you missed any along your drive to the South Coast or between Vik and Jokulsarlon. 

• Day 7: Heading Back Home

If you didn’t have time to visit the Blue Lagoon upon your arrival in Iceland, now’s a good time to do so. Otherwise, drop your vehicle off with your rental car provider and catch your flight back home from Keflavik Airport. 

What car you should hire for your 7-day summer Iceland itinerary?

For a 7-day summer Iceland itinerary, we recommend renting a 2WD economy vehicle for travelling couples; for groups of three or four travellers, we recommend renting an SUV , so you have enough room for everyone to be comfortable well as all of your luggage. 

Travelling through Iceland during the winter is an entirely different experience than travelling in Iceland during the summer. You still can enjoy many of the same sites and activities, but do note that the drives may take you longer, and you may find that you need a little more flexibility in your 7-day itinerary. This is all because Iceland’s winter months, October through April, are filled with unpredictable and sometimes hazardous weather, and road conditions that make for slow going and fewer daylight hours overall. 

The best route for self-driving in Iceland for seven days in Winter time (late September ~ April)

You’ll want to keep this in mind when planning your wintertime 7 days in Iceland, but, in general, here's what we recommend for a 7-day Iceland winter road trip itinerary. 

• Day 2: The Golden Circle
• Day 3: The South Coast
• Day 4: Vik to Jokulsarlon
• Day 5: Ice Caving and Sightseeing in Jokulsarlon

As always, you’ll arrive in Iceland at the Keflavik Airport, the only airport in Iceland that receives incoming international travellers. Grab your rental car and then head (carefully and slowly!) to the Blue Lagoon. Popular all year round, the Blue Lagoon is especially nice during the winter months, when you can enjoy the hot springs in your bathing suit while taking in the wintertime panorama all around you. After your Blue Lagoon experience, you can head to Reykjavik and check in to your hotel.

Keep your accommodations in Reykjavik for one more day, as you set out to see the Golden Circle over your first full day in Iceland. The Golden Circle takes 3 hours to drive in good weather, but you’ll want to leave plenty of extra time for slow driving conditions. Popular spots on the route to not miss include Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss and Geysir.

• Day 3: The South Coast 

On Day 3, check out of your Reykjavik hotel and travel along the South Coast to Vik, where you’ll stay the night. Again, this route is short, also taking only 3 hours, but you’ll want to leave plenty of time for stopping, as well as for inclement weather that might impact your drive times. 

Some of the top spots to stop along the route include Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Seljavallalaug Hot Pool, Skogafoss Waterfall, the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck and the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

• Day 4: Vik to Jokulsarlon 

On Day 4, check out of your Vik hotel and drive to Jokulsarlon. During the drive, be sure to stop by Fjadrargljufur Canyon, Skaftafell National Park, the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Hofn and Diamond Beach. For the night, you’ll want to have booked a hotel in Jokulsarlon.

• Day 5: Ice Caving and Sightseeing in Jokulsarlon 

Ice caving is one of the top can’t-miss activities for a winter trip to Iceland. Do keep in mind, though, if you're travelling on a budget, that ice-caving tours can be a bit expensive, so if this is something you want to do while in Jokulsarlon, budget accordingly. 

Again, you can spend the night in your Jokulsarlon hotel. 

On the last full day of your trip, you’ll want to drive the pristine Icelandic coastline from Hofn to Reykjavik. The drive is about 6 hours, so plan your drive according to the winter daylight hours as an extra safety precaution. 

If you didn’t have time to visit the Blue Lagoon upon your arrival in Iceland, now’s a good time to do so. Otherwise, drop your vehicle off with your rental car provider and catch your flight back home from Keflavik Airport.

What car you should hire for your 7-day Winter Iceland itinerary?

During the winter months, we always recommend our clients rent 4x4 vehicles . The road conditions during the winter are often hazardous, and the weather is unpredictable, necessitating a well-equipped vehicle to get you safely around Iceland.

Tips From the Locals: Renting Your Car in Iceland 

Whenever you visit Iceland, wherever you plan to go, however long you plan to be here, there are a few things you should do when renting your car in Iceland. 

• Be sure to choose the right rental car based on your itinerary.
• Be sure to choose the right rental car based on the season.
• And be sure to choose the right rental car based on the type of traveller you are.

You’ll also want to look for rental cars with the amenities you need, as well as a rental car that’s equipped with the transmission you’re most accustomed to driving with. 

You can read more about all of our top tips for renting a car in Iceland . 

Explore some of the most beautiful and popular stops around Iceland over seven days, with no need to rush or hurry. Following along with one of our 7-day Iceland itineraries makes it possible. And remember — the right rental car can make all the difference in how enjoyable (and safe!) your trip is. Check out all of your rental car options for your Iceland trip .

Hire your Iceland car today

Related Travel Tips

How to Plan a Honeymoon or Romantic Road Trip in Iceland

There’s no better place for a honeymoon or romantic getaway than Iceland. The dramatic land of fire and ice provides gorgeous scenery everywhere you look, plenty of hot springs to cozy up to your honey, and endless ways to go on bond-strengthening and exploratory adventures. Find out what are the best places to go as a couple in Iceland, what to do, and how to plan a romantic road trip in Iceland. Keep reading...

Northern Lights in Iceland - When, Where & Road Trip Tips

If you’re planning an aurora-hunting road trip to Iceland, we’re here to help. This article includes all you need to know about when and where to see the northern lights in Iceland. We will also recommend the best car for your trip and tell you about the safety rules for your trip.

Year-Round Weather Conditions in Iceland + Best Time to Visit

Iceland is known for its unpredictable weather, you can drive through all 4 seasons in one day! Keep reading to know everything about the weather and the best time to visit Iceland.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

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!

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

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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The Ultimate Ring Road Road Trip: A 6 Day Iceland Itinerary

By: Author Christine Wheeler

Posted on Published: August 22, 2018  - Last updated: August 1, 2021

Iceland recently exploded onto the travel scene. Each year, more and more people visit the Land of Fire and Ice. If you haven’t been to Iceland yet, a Ring Road road trip in Iceland should be on your bucket list .

Some choose to go in the winter to see the Northern Lights. Others choose to go in the summer and experience the midnight sun. Either way, you can’t choose wrong when going to Iceland.

This six day Iceland itinerary can be tweaked if you have more or less time in Iceland. If you only have 3 or 4 days in Iceland, focus on the southern coast of Iceland found in the first 3 days of this itinerary for Iceland. You can fill one week in Iceland with this itinerary or even add a couple of other stops.

I really wish we had 7 days in Iceland as it would have given us just a little more time for a couple of other stops we wanted to make. If you have 10 days in Iceland or more, definitely drive around Ring Road and take time for some additional waterfalls and adventures along the way.

If you are planning a trip to Iceland, start saving now though. Iceland is expensive! From $7 a gallon fuel prices to $30 fast food meals for two, prepare for some outrageous prices on your Ring Road adventure. Prices are included to help you budget for your trip.

Looking for more Iceland tips and tricks? Find our top 5 waterfalls in Iceland (plus a few bonus waterfalls) here  and how to get into the Blue Lagoon in Iceland for free (and without the crowds) here.

*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Map For a 6 Day Iceland Itinerary Around Ring Road

This map includes hotels we stayed in along the way and is split up by day. You can view all the layers to see the entire road trip around Iceland at once or view each individual day. Feel free to save it to your Google maps and alter it for your own Iceland road trip adventure.

Best Hotels for 6 Day Ring Road Iceland Road Trip

These hotels are also included below, but our recommendations for hotels on Iceland’s Ring Road are:

• Hotel Gullfoss : This hotel sits right on Iceland’s Golden Circle. Located just a few minutes from Gullfoss waterfall, rooms go for about $150 a night and include a full breakfast buffet.
• Solheimahjaleiga Guesthouse : This hotel makes for the perfect base to hike to the Solheimsandur plane wreck. It also is perfect for seeing puffins in Dyrholaey and seeing the basalt columns on Reynifsjara Beach. The rooms are individual rooms, but you share bathrooms here. It cost us $130 for one night. There was never a wait for a bathroom or shower. The included breakfast includes a full buffet breakfast.
• Berunes HI Hostel & Camp : Our cabin at this hostel might be my favorite stay of the trip. The scenery in this area is the prettiest in Iceland, and we had our own little cabin in the middle of it. The cabin costs a little more than the room, but it is only a $20 difference ($130 versus $110). Plan to get breakfast elsewhere as it is not available here.
• Icelandair Hotel Akureyri : We did not choose this hotel, but it was the nicest hotel of our Iceland road trip. Our car broke down, so the tow truck dropped us off here without a choice. They did not reimburse us either. The hotels in Akureyri cost more than other parts of Iceland, and this one cost $200 for one night. Breakfast costs another $30 per person, so we visited a bakery instead. The rooms are large and beautiful, but we usually try to keep our costs down and find hotels that include breakfast.
• Hotel Lotus : Reykjavik has a wider range of hotel rooms than other parts of Iceland. This hotel is centrally located for what we wanted to see. We only had a few hours here due to our flights and wanting to see as much as possible with the midnight sun. Rooms start around $100, and a buffet breakfast is included. The rooms feel larger than they are and are very comfortable.

Day 1: Iceland’s Golden Circle in One Day

Our flight from New York City to Reykjavik was scheduled to land at 7 a.m., but a delay meant we landed closer to 9 a.m. We had already rented a car, so we went straight to the bus to go pick up our rental. Thankfully, visiting Iceland in summer meant the midnight sun gave us extra time to explore. We often stayed out most of the night to see places without anyone else around. Arriving late ended up not holding us back at all.

RENTING A CAR AND DRIVING IN ICELAND

We rented from Reykjavik Rental Car and would not recommend them. The customer service from the owner himself was terrible when our car broke down. He planned to leave us stranded all night on the side of the road. Our car would not turn on, so we could not use the heat to stay warm. After a few phone calls, he decided to send a tow truck to take us to a hotel for the night instead.

Once we had the car, we drove towards Reykjavik and stopped at a bakery we found along the way. We purchased some pastries to hold us over until we found some “real” food. Buying a couple of croissants, a sandwich, and a pastry set us back about $15 which wasn’t bad. We also stopped at an outdoor store and bought a sleeping bag and pillows. We rented a 4-wheel drive SUV so that we could sleep in the back if needed.

You definitely want to rent a 4-wheel drive vehicle for your Iceland road trip. Several roads we took were 4-wheel drive only roads. Some of the other roads did not require a 4-wheel drive vehicle, but 2-wheel drive vehicles struggled to make the trip.

Make sure to rent WiFi or a GPS as well. We rented WiFi and used the maps on our phones. This option was cheap and also allowed us to look up things as we went. Be aware that even the WiFi will not have service in some places. Make sure your map is loaded before you lose service, especially in the northern parts of the country.

When getting gas in Iceland, you have a few options. If a gas station is open, you can go inside and pay with a credit card or buy a gas card. At the pumps, you must pay with a card with a pin number or a gas station card. If you only have a credit card, call before you leave to get a pin number for your card.

Otherwise, take a debit or bank card with you. We also purchased a gas card. It could only be used at certain gas stations, but it made it easy to pay even when the gas station closed. Gas stations close early and do not stay open 24 hours a day like in some countries, so make sure you are ready.

Make sure to fill up your gas tank often. We tried to keep the gas tank over half full. Sometimes you drive long stretches of Ring Road without seeing any gas stations or other stops. You do not want to run out of gas in the middle of nowhere with no phone service or WiFi. The gas is expensive, but make sure to fill up often!

A QUICK STOP IN THINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK

From there, it was time to head out to the Golden Circle. We didn’t make it far before we needed a quick nap though. We found a campground on the side of the road and pulled in. Campgrounds are everywhere in southern Iceland. The owner was very friendly and showed us around before letting us sleep for an hour or two in the car.

It had an indoor bathroom and a covered eating area, but the cooking area was outdoors. It was only $15 for the night, but camping isn’t necessarily the cheaper route since camper vans ran about $300 a day when we were there (our rental was about $100 a day). If you want to tent camp, it is much cheaper than a camper van or hotels. It is cold at night even in the summer though.

Awake and refreshed, we headed for Thingvellir to see the continental divide. The drive from the airport to Thingvellir without stopping takes about an hour and 15 minutes. This national park has amazing views, so don’t be afraid to use the lookouts to enjoy the views.

We started at the Thingvellir Visitor Center (at the end of Hakid Road) where you can walk between the continents. Being there in the middle of the day in June meant quite a few tour groups in this area with us though.

From this parking lot, you can walk down the path to the other places we saw in Thingvellir. If you have your own car, driving down to the parking lot near Oxararfoss is also an option to see the waterfall that runs down the divide. There is a viewing platform where you can look down the river and across at the waterfall.

You can walk or drive from Oxararfoss over to see the Silfra dive site. Here you can dive between the two continents in water that is at near freezing temperatures all year. I am a wimp when it comes to the cold and have an autoimmune disorder that makes my hands hurt in the cold, so this was not appealing at all to me!

We did walk over and touch the water. You can see how crystal clear it is from the walkways along the divide. We also sent our drone up to really get a good look at how clear that water was in the area.

While you can spend longer in Thingvellir, we wanted to keep moving due to time and saw what we came to see. The continental divide is the main attraction in Thingvellir. Oxararfoss and Silfra are common stops as well. With only 6 days in Iceland, we needed to keep moving.

THE GOLDEN CIRCLE’S GEYSIR & STROKKUR

After Thingvellir, the next stop on the Golden Circle is Geysir. The drive between the two places takes about 40 minutes. Geysir is the first geyser known to the Europeans and the first one to make it into recorded text.

Geysir is basically inactive right now, but it is affected by earthquakes that sometimes cause it to erupt more frequently. You can still see it and the steam coming from the boiling hot water.

Walk through the geothermal area and over to Geysir (it doesn’t take long), but the main attraction at Geysir is Strokkur. Often you will see pictures of Strokkur that are labeled as Geysir. Strokkur erupts about every 6 – 10 minutes although it is not exact. Because it erupts so frequently, take time to watch it from multiple sides.

We visited around 10 p.m., so you could see the colors of sunset in the sky behind it from one of the walkways. From the other side of it though, you can watch the water start bubbling up. A large bubble forms and then bursts as the geyser spews water about 50 – 65 feet (15 – 20 meters) into the air.

SEEING GULLFOSS IN THE SUMMER

The last stop on a self-tour of the Golden Circle is Gullfoss. By the time we drove there (only about a 10 minute drive), the sunset painted the sky. The waterfall was in the shadows and is down in a gorge a little bit. If you want to see it in the sunlight, make sure to go in the middle of the day.

However, since it is part of the Golden Circle tours, know that it will be busy. We saw less than 10 other people while we visited. There are walkways to take you down to several viewpoints, but the mist was so heavy and we were so cold that we didn’t venture too close.

While Gullfoss is worth a stop, we liked many of the other waterfalls more. Because of this, we kept moving to find a hotel for the night.

A HOTEL ON ICELAND’S GOLDEN CIRCLE

We planned to start the drive to our first stop of the next day since it was still daylight, but tiredness forced us to look for nearby accommodations. Even though it was already about 11:30 p.m., we stopped in at Hotel Gullfoss and were able to book a room for $152 (average for Iceland).

I highly recommend this hotel. The staff was kind and welcoming, the breakfast was amazing, and the room was perfect. I loved the breakfast area with the large windows and views over the Icelandic landscape. Located only a few minutes from Gullfoss, the location is perfect if you want to see it in the morning.

Day 2: Chasing the Best Waterfalls on Iceland’s South Coast

We spent most of the second day exploring some of the best and most popular waterfalls along the southern coast of Iceland. Thanks to a late night and jet lag, we slept in a little bit. After waking up and getting some breakfast, we headed out to our first waterfall of the day.

SOUTHERN ICELAND’S BEST WATERFALL: HAIFOSS

One of my favorite waterfalls of the trip , Haifoss, required some off-road driving. If you have a 2-wheel drive vehicle, you can still make it to this one. Make sure to take it slow as there are some big rocks and potholes in the road.

Pay attention to the conditions of the road, especially if it is wet. You may not be able to access this waterfall in the winter since some of the roads may close.

The drive from Gullfoss to Haifoss takes about an hour and 15 minutes. There are signs to direct you to Haifoss, and there is a small parking lot once you arrive. Because it is off the beaten path, there are not many people who come to visit Haifoss. There were several other vehicles in the parking lot, but we only saw two other couples while we were there.

It takes about 5 – 10 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the edge of the gorge. You look across and see Haifoss and Granni (meaning neighbor) as well as some other smaller waterfalls depending on the time of year.

Haifoss is one of the tallest waterfalls we saw, falling 400 feet (122 meters) to the base of the gorge. Arriving in the middle of the day allowed us to see rainbows in the mist of the waterfalls too.

There is a path you can hike down to get to the base of the canyon, but we chose to skip that due to limited time with only 6 days in Iceland. If you are looking to spend a little more money and save time, you can hire a private helicopter to take you here. We only know that because of the one that landed while we were there.

SELJALANDSFOSS: WALKING BEHIND A WATERFALL IN ICELAND

After Haifoss, we drove back to Ring Road to start heading east along the south coast. Seljalandsfoss is about a two hour drive from Haifoss or an hour and a half from Gullfoss if you skip Haifoss. There are bathrooms in the parking lot at Seljalandsfoss that are pretty nice.

Seljalandsfoss is known for the path that goes behind the waterfall. It is a popular waterfall since you can see it from the road and easily access it from the parking lot. The path is paved and smooth other than the section that goes behind the waterfall making it easier to access for those who need a smooth walkway.

We went in the early evening (around 5:30 p.m.), but a few tour buses still lined the parking lot. Even with the tour buses, the waterfall felt fairly empty.

If you plan to take the path behind the waterfall (and you should!), bring a waterproof jacket. If you have waterproof pants and shoes, wear them as well.

The mist soaked my camera by the end, so I tried to dry the lens as much as possible immediately. Our GoPro was the go to camera for this one as it was the only truly waterproof camera we had with us.

GLJUFRABUI: A HIDDEN WATERFALL IN A CANYON

I have no idea how to pronounce this one, but it was another of our favorites . From Seljalandsfoss, either walk about 10 minutes down the path or drive down closer to it. There is no parking lot, so park on the side of the road if you drive down.

We left before we realized it was right next to Seljalandsfoss (to the left if you are facing the waterfall). We came back after visiting Skogafoss when we realized it.

Between Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrabui, there is a campground. It has indoor bathrooms and showers and an area inside to eat. We did not go inside the building to check it out since we did not plan to stay. There is a grill outside to cook up any food you need and tables and chairs inside. I’m not sure if there are more cooking appliances inside or not.

Gljufrabui isn’t visible until you are right in front of it because it is set back in a canyon. There used to be a path to the top to look down into it. However, that area had a rope across it when we were there. The path is no longer stable, so we did not chance it.

If you are up for an adventure, hike into the canyon up the stream of water. It is a short distance to the base of the waterfall, and there is a large rock inside the canyon. If you do this, wear waterproof everything. We only had waterproof shoes and jackets.

I went a few steps in and was soaking wet from the mist tunneling out of the canyon. You hike through the water, but it wasn’t very deep at that point. You can walk on the rocks to stay in shallow water or out of the water sometimes. Another couple came prepared and hiked all the way in, but we were cold and wet enough already just from the mist.

SKOGAFOSS: ONE OF ICELAND’S MOST VISITED WATERFALLS

Skogafoss is one of the most well-known and most popular waterfalls in Iceland, but it actually wasn’t one of my favorite waterfalls. It probably did not help that I was freezing cold and soaked from Seljalandsfoss. It was after Skogafoss that we realized that Gljufrabui was right next to Seljalandsfoss – oops!

Even though we went around 7 p.m., there were still quite a few people here. It is only a 30 minute drive from Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrabui to get to Skogafoss.

A trail allows you to hike up to the top of the waterfall for what looks like an amazing view, but we really just wanted to get warm at the time! We ended up deciding to go back to Gljufrabui instead of hiking to the top. We do not regret our decision but hope to go back and hike up one day. If you plan to walk up anywhere near the base of Skogafoss, wear waterproof clothing again. The mist blows everywhere!

Day 3: Iceland’s Plane Wrecks, Puffins, and Precious Jewels

After our day of waterfalls, we spent the night near the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck to get an early start. This area is only about 30 minutes from Skogafoss.

We stayed at the Solheimahjaleiga Guesthouse for about $130. It is so close to the start of the hike that it was perfect for us. We had our own room, but we shared bathrooms and showers. Each bathroom and shower is in a separate room and completely private.

The breakfast was included and had a wide variety of foods in a room full of windows to enjoy the surrounding views. If you have some extra time, there are plenty of other things to do in Vik and the surrounding areas.

HIKING TO THE SOLHEIMASANDUR PLANE WRECK

Get our full guide with everything you need to know about hiking to the Sólheimasandur plane wreck here.

The hike to the Solheimsandur plane wreck is not a difficult hike, but it feels longer than it is. We started our hike around 6:00 a.m. The hike is a total of 4 miles (7 km) and takes about an hour each way.

The walk was easy but the area is very desolate. You can see the black rock arch off to the left for some of the hike if the weather is clear enough.

Be aware that the weather can change suddenly. On our hike out and back, we had sun, clouds, heavy fog, and rain – all in the course of about two and half hours. Bring clothes that are versatile and prepare for different conditions and temperatures.

Once we got to the plane, it was harder than I thought to climb on top of the plane, and I ripped my pants wide open climbing back down. I found out afterwards that you are not supposed to climb up on the plane. I saw pictures of people on top of it and watched others climb up, so I did too. If you do so, you climb at your own risk. The top does not feel stable at all.

On our hike back around 8 a.m., we saw a lot of groups headed out to the wreck. If you want it to yourself in the days of long sunlight, start your hike before 8 a.m. when it gets busier. The plane wreck ended up being one of our favorite stops in Iceland because of how unique it is.

For more information about what to wear, what to expect, and when to go, check out our full Sólheimasandur plane crash hiking guide here .

DYRHOLAEY: WHERE TO FIND PUFFINS IN ICELAND IN THE SUMMER

If you want to see puffins in Iceland, go to Dyrholaey in the summer. This is your best chance to see puffins in Iceland without a tour.

The puffins are out of their nests from mid-morning to early evening, so plan around that. Even when they are out, you can still see them out in the water and going back and forth to the nests.

Your best chance of seeing puffins at Dyrholaey is early in the morning from what a guide told us. We saw a few when they came back to the nests for a few minutes.

To get here, turn south on Dyrholavegur/218 and drive until it ends in a parking lot. Don’t turn off for Black Rock Arch unless you have a four-wheel drive vehicle. The views from there are good, but there aren’t many puffins in that area.

Once you park, take the trails all the way to the left. Puffin houses cover the tops of the cliffs there. Be patient as it takes time to spot them nearby. Keep your eyes on the water and the birds flying over the beach to spot them out of the nests.

The drive to Dyrholaey takes about 15 minutes from the plane wreck parking lot or about two and half hours from Reykjavik.

Whatever you do, don’t climb over the chains along the cliffs at Dyrholaey. There are a lot of places in Iceland where the chains and ropes are to protect you. If you decide to climb over them, you only put yourself at risk.

The chains here are to protect the puffins’ houses. We watched one girl climb right over and walk all over them for her perfect shot. One of the guides who happened to be there started yelling at her, but she did not seem to care at all about protecting the puffins.

Besides seeing the puffins at Dyrholaey, take time to walk or drive up to the Dyrholaey lighthouse. It is a good idea to have four-wheel drive to get to the lighthouse if you drive. There are some amazing views of the rocky coastline and black sand beaches along the paths between where the puffins are and where the lighthouse is if you walk.

REYNISFJARA BEACH: BASALT COLUMNS & SNEAKY WAVES

Reynifsjara Beach is a popular stop in Iceland. The beach at Reynifsjara is much more crowded than it appears in pictures. The basalt columns are popular for photos, but if you wait your turn, you can get an area to yourself.

People were nice about trying to stay out of each other’s photos for the most part. Even with a full parking lot and people using overflow parking, we still managed to get photos alone on the basalt columns.

Be aware of “sneaky waves” on the beach as the signs warn tourists. People get close to the water, turn their backs, and then get swept away by the large waves that sneak up on them. There are a few huge but shallow caves along the beach and the Reynisdrangar rock formations just off the beach, but keep your eyes on the waves.

Be aware of how close you get to the water even as a strong swimmer. Several people die here each year, swept away by the waves.

There is an overpriced (even for Iceland) restaurant at Reynifsjara Beach if you need food. There are bathrooms, but you have to purchase something to use them. Everything is overpriced, but there are some cheaper items if you need to use the bathroom.

The parking lot was almost full when we arrived and overflowing when we left about 30 minutes later. It takes about 30 minutes to get here from the Dyrholaey lighthouse area. Even though you look over Reynifsjara Beach from Dyrholaey, you have to drive around the inlet to get between the two.

VISITING JOKULSARLON GLACIER LAGOON

From Reynisfjara to Jokulsarlon, the drive takes about two and a half hours. Iceland is full of beautiful views on this drive. We stopped a few times which made our drive longer than expected.

You can enjoy views of different waterfalls and glaciers along the side of the road. No matter what the map says, plan some extra time to stop for the views on your Ring Road road trip around Iceland.

There are a couple of parking lots you can choose from for a visit to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. We pulled into the first parking lot first. The icy wind hit us in the face immediately.

We experienced our coldest weather in Iceland at Jokulsarlon. It seemed fitting with the cold air to take a five minute walk and be looking out over floating icebergs. However, unless you want a hike and a view from above, skip the first parking lot and continue to the bridge.

Back in the car, we warmed up and drove down to the next parking lot just past the bridge. This is the main parking lot and where the tours leave from. You have options like kayaking or taking a duck boat tour, but we arrived soon after everything closed.

With the sun lower in the sky and no tour buses around, we enjoyed the sun glistening off of the icebergs in peace and quiet. Well, it was not quite quiet. We enjoyed the sounds of nature – the howling wind and the iceberg that cracked apart in front of us. If you are lucky, you may spot some seals or other wildlife here as well.

Be prepared to need every layer you brought here! The wind did not let up, and it was freezing cold (literally!) even on a sunny day in mid-June. We did not stay out as long as we might have if it wasn’t so cold. The views are beautiful, and the area may be warmer earlier in the day when the sun is higher in the sky.

ICELAND’S DIAMOND BEACH IN THE SUMMER

To get to Diamond Beach, you can either walk across the street and bridge or drive across to the parking lot. You want to be on the east side of the bridge for Glacier Lagoon and on the west side for Diamond Beach.

If you have extra time, visit both sides for both Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. We opted to drive over thanks to the cold temperatures and wind (also, we are wimps with the cold since we are from Florida!).

This beach looks completely different from pictures I have seen of it in the winter. In the winter, large chunks of icebergs have washed out of the lagoon and back up on the shore. In the summer, they have melted down and are much smaller.

Still, walking down to the water’s edge, you see the chunks of ice sparkling in the sunlight and know exactly why it is called Diamond Beach. The contrast of the glistening chunks of ice on the black sand beach makes for one of the most unique and beautiful beaches I have ever visited.

BEAUTIFUL DRIVE FROM HOFN TO DJUPIVOGUR

The drive on Ring Road in Iceland is prettiest from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach to Akureyri. Factor in plenty of extra time for stops if you drive this stretch of the road. This area is not a place you will see listed on other itineraries for Iceland or lists of things to do or places to see in Iceland.

If you are driving Ring Road, plan some extra time here. This was my absolute favorite part of the drive for views. I did not enjoy the dramatic cliff drops with no barrier between the car and death though.

The area near Hofn gives you beautiful mountain views as you follow the curve of the rocky coastline. Enjoy fields of lupine in front of snow-capped mountains and lakes and rivers that reflect the beauty of the mountains. Driving this part of the road later in the evening gave us sunset views for hours thanks to visiting Iceland in the summer.

Because we took so long with picture stops, we ended up stopping in this area for the night. We stayed at Berunes HI Hostel & Camp in the cutest little cabin. They also have hostel rooms available, but we loved our little cabin even if it cost a little more ($130 versus $110). If we return to Iceland in the summer sometime, I want to stay longer and explore this area more.

Day 4: The Best Waterfalls in Iceland – An All-Star Lineup

If we hadn’t already fallen in love, the waterfalls we saw on our fourth day in Iceland would have changed that! Of our 6 days in Iceland, this is one of the days we spent the most time in the car. It was worth it to get to some waterfalls that are more off of the beaten track.

EUROPE’S MOST POWERFUL WATERFALL: DETTIFOSS

Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in all of Europe according to many sources. That alone should convince you to take the long drive to get there.

From Jokulsarlon, it is about a six hour drive. For a couple of hours, we had no radio, no WiFi, and saw no one on the road. The last part of the drive is on a dirt road that was under construction, so that slowed us down a little bit too.

When visiting Dettifoss, you want to make sure you visit the east side of Dettifoss. You can visit both the east and west sides, but it takes about an hour and a half to drive between them.

The west side of Dettifoss has paved roads and a paved parking lot with space for tour buses. If you take a tour to Dettifoss, you will go to the west side. The east side is only for cars.

From the west side, you face directly across at the waterfall. That may sound good, but the mist from the waterfall is in the way. The people we could see on the viewing platform were mostly wearing ponchos thanks to the mist.

On the east side of Dettifoss, you can walk right up to the edge of the waterfall and feel its power. You can walk along the edge of the gorge to get a variety of views of the waterfall. Because it is only cars on this side, there are not many people. The parking lot was full, but the area still felt empty. There are bathrooms, but they were locked.

HIKING TO A LESSER KNOWN WATERFALL IN ICELAND: SELFOSS

Whatever you do, don’t go from Dettifoss back to your car. You will see a sign along the trail that points up the river to Selfoss. It is less than 3/4 of a mile (1 km) to get to Selfoss from Dettifoss. You have to climb over a few rocks, but the trail is pretty easy. The first part of it is the worst part (and not that bad), and the last part is flat and hard-packed sand.

When we got back to Selfoss, there was only one other person there. Along the walk, you start to see a ton of small waterfalls pouring over the edge into the river to head down to Dettifoss.

If you parked on the east side of Dettifoss, you have the view from across the gorge of all of these waterfalls. From the west side, the trail stops early because of all of these waterfalls but lets you look straight down at the main waterfall at Selfoss from a distance. The main fall for Selfoss is still visible from the east side though.

You can get closer to it if you are willing to get your feet a little wet. There are some shallow pools at the top where the rain and mist have gathered, but you aren’t walking through rushing water or anything like that.

THE WATERFALL WITH THE LITTLE POOL: ALDEYJARFOSS

Aldeyjarfoss is the hardest waterfall to access but our favorite waterfall we saw in Iceland . You need to have a four-wheel drive vehicle to get to this one since it is on an F-road.

F-roads require 4-wheel drive. If the weather has been good and the road is dry, you might make it in a two-wheel drive. Make sure you know if your rental company is okay with you taking your car on F-roads.

The drive from Dettifoss to Aldeyjarfoss took about two and a half hours. If you are coming from Akureyri to Aldeyjarfoss, it will take you about an hour and a half.

When you get to a fence following the directions, you may think you made a wrong turn. You did not. You have to get out and open the fence to drive through it. Once you are through, make sure to close the fence to keep the sheep in! After the fence, you are only about 10 – 15 minutes from the waterfall.

There is a parking lot and two primitive bathrooms at Aldeyjarfoss. The parking lot was empty when we arrived, and we only saw two other couples about an hour after we arrived. We went at 8:30 p.m. or so though. From the parking lot, it takes about five minutes to walk down the trail along the gorge to Aldeyjarfoss.

Take time to enjoy the views of the gorge on your way down. One thing that sets Aldeyjarfoss apart from other waterfalls is the basalt columns lining the gorge and surrounding the waterfall. As it pours over the edge, it falls into a large pool area before making its way down the river. This pool area stayed covered in white foam from the power of the waterfall.

The sun shone down on the waterfall and columns when we first arrived, but by about 9 p.m. in June, the waterfall and many of the columns were in the shadows. When the sun shone down on the waterfall, it created a rainbow in the mist.

At Aldeyjarfoss, if you are up for an adventure, hike down to the base across from the waterfall to get to a little natural pool across from Aldeyjarfoss. This pool at Aldeyjarfoss is one of the pictures that regularly appears on social media. I have seen pictures of people in the natural pool across from Aldeyjarfoss, but it is not what it seems.

The pool is only about a foot deep at the deepest spot and the bottom is covered in algae. Even full it would not be all that deep. The water in the natural pool is cold but may warm up some in the direct sunlight. It is not all that enticing to climb into it, even for a picture.

NORTHERN ICELAND’S MOST POPULAR WATERFALL: GODAFOSS

About 45 minutes up the road towards Akureyri from Aldeyjarfoss, you will find Godafoss along the side of the road. If you’re coming from Akureyri to Godafoss, the drive takes about 45 minutes. Because Godafoss is so easily accessible, it can get busy during the daytime.

We ended up at Godafoss close to 11 p.m. There were still a few other people around at that time and the summer sun hung low in the sky. From the parking lot, it only takes about 2 minutes to walk to the viewpoint. You can also walk over to the other side of the waterfall to see it from a different angle.

Godafoss is known as the Waterfall of the Gods because they threw the pagan gods in when Iceland became a Christian country to avoid an invasion. It is not just one waterfall but about five waterfalls together. Because of how large the waterfalls are, it makes for a beautiful view.

I read later that you can hike down to the base of this waterfall, but we did not know about it at the time. From the east side (by the cafe), you can follow a small trail to the bottom. It is not a long trail, but it does require some climbing over rocks.

Day 5: Driving from Akureyri to Reykjavik

As we left Godafoss and continued driving to Akureyri, we started looking for places to stay or even camp for the night. We looked for campgrounds in this area but had no luck finding one. We stopped at a few hotels, but this is a more expensive area of Iceland.

After realizing that, we decided to keep driving and get out of town to look for campgrounds. Around 2 a.m., our car broke down. We ended up being towed back to Akureyri and had to stay there for the night after all. It took until around noon for the rental company to find us a rental with a different company, so we had to shorten our itinerary for this day a little bit.

AKUREYRI: NORTHERN ICELAND’S BIGGEST CITY

Akureyri is the second largest city in Iceland. Known as the capital of the north, there is a port, airport, rental companies, etc. There are a ton of hotel options but not many camping options (at least not on Ring Road).

Most hotels in Akureyri started around $200 a night. This was more expensive than most other areas of Iceland. We stayed at the Icelandair Hotel Akureyri . The hotel was the nicest one we stayed in on the trip, but it was also the most expensive one we stayed in on the trip. We did not have breakfast here since breakfast cost $30 or so a person. Instead, the woman at the front desk gave us directions to her favorite local bakery.

Akureyri makes a great base for exploring northern Iceland. If you like city living and having more options around for food and hotels, set up base here for a few days and do day trips throughout northern Iceland. It is a cute town, and I would have liked to explore it more. Since we were on day 5 out of our 6 days in Iceland, we took off as soon as we had a rental car to make up for lost time.

VISITING THE SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA IN A DAY

We planned to spend more time here and in the Westfjords area, but our broken down car delay took some time out of our six days in Iceland. We still drove through the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to see one of the waterfalls, and it felt like we landed on another planet. Similar to the rest of Iceland, the views are beautiful. The lava fields combined with the clouds to give it an otherworldly feeling.

Snaefellsnes is an easy two hour drive from Reykjavik. Coming from Akureyri though, it took over four and a half hours to get to this area. If you come to this area, know there is more to see including glaciers and ice caves. We ended up only stopping at Kirkjufellsfoss for the waterfall due to time.

KIRKJUFELLSFOSS & MOUNT KIRKJUFELL: WESTERN ICELAND’S MOST POPULAR WATERFALL

The parking lot for this waterfall is relatively small, so we parked across the street. Despite the full lot, there were no buses when we visited in the middle of the afternoon.

From the parking lot, there is a mostly paved walkway that goes up to the waterfall, across the top of the waterfall, and back down the other side. The path does not make a full circle, so you have to go back up and over to return to your car.

The view of Kirkjufell mountain in the background is the famous shot at this waterfall. Hike up and across the top of the other side of the waterfall to get the mountain in the background. It makes for great long exposure photos if you have the right filter with you (I did not).

While Kirkjufellsfoss is a beautiful waterfall, we needed more time on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. The waterfall alone is not worth the 4 hours round trip from Reykjavik. However, it is worth it if you are already in the area.

If you are a Game of Thrones fan, it makes an appearance in a few episodes apparently. If you are coming to Snaefellsnes, make sure to schedule in more than just this waterfall while you are there to really make it worth it.

From Kirkjufellsfoss, we drove back to Iceland to catch our flight to Paris and then Turkey that night before returning a week later to finish out day 6. Most people don’t take a week vacation in the middle of their 6 days in Iceland, so you may have more time to spend in the Snaefellsnes peninsula or in Reykjavik than this 6 day Iceland itinerary includes.

Day 6: One Day in Reykjavik and Visiting the Blue Lagoon

Our sixth day in Iceland was actually a week later than the first 5 days in Iceland. We had a day layover at the end of our trip that ended up being more of a night layover.

Our plane landed late, and by the time we got our rental car, we left the airport around 1 a.m. We had to be back at the airport at around 9 a.m. the same morning.

We booked a room at Hotel Lotus and loved it for the few hours we were there. The breakfast included a large selection and the room felt larger than it was. The only negative was that the price was a little higher than we would have liked. The breakfast and location made the price more worth it though.

If you have extra time to spend in Reykjavik, there are plenty of other things to do in the area. Many people choose to make Reykjavik their base and take day trips from Reykjavik to explore Iceland.

However, that limits how far around Ring Road you can go. Reykjavik is the biggest city in Iceland, so if you plan on buying any souvenirs in Iceland , Reykjavik is the best place to find them.

BLUE LAGOON: SEE IT FOR FREE

Instead of going straight to the hotel and crashing, we decided to take advantage of the midnight sun. We drove straight to the Blue Lagoon. If you want to swim in the Blue Lagoon, tickets are about $90 a person.

Because of timing and not really wanting to pay that much for a man-made thermal bath, we chose to see the Blue Lagoon for free . Swimming in the Blue Lagoon is still on the bucket list for now.

There are some parts of the Blue Lagoon that are open 24 hours a day. This area is also free and easy to access. We ended up being there at the right time to watch the sunrise over the Blue Lagoon at around 3:00 a.m. in June. No one else happened to visit in the middle of the night with us. Click here for our full guide to seeing the Blue Lagoon for free any time of the day or night .

HALLGRIMSKIRKJA: ICELAND’S MOST FAMOUS CHURCH

Hallgrimskirkja is the most famous church in all of Iceland. During normal hours, go inside and up to the top to enjoy the view. Considering it was 4 a.m., that was not an option for us.

It did mean no one else was around for pictures though. The streets of Reykjavik were pretty empty at that hour of the morning. From Hallgrimskirkja, we headed straight to the hotel to sleep for a few hours before catching our flight home.

Iceland is an amazing country. Visiting Iceland for 6 days in the summer allowed us time to go around Ring Road but not enough time to see it all. I’d love to go back in the winter to see the Northern Lights and compare the summer and winter landscapes.

Have you been to Iceland or is it still on your bucket list ? Is there anything we missed that we need to make sure to see next time?

Looking for more Iceland tips and tricks? Find our top 5 waterfalls in Iceland (plus a few bonus waterfalls) here , our guide to hiking to the Sólheimasandur plane wreck here , and how to get into the Blue Lagoon in Iceland for free (and without the crowds) here. All photos in this post were edited with presets you can purchase here .

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Monday 24th of May 2021

I have 5 nights - 6 days. Going with my wife and 7o year old parents. They don't love to hike, but we do like to drive. Everyone keeps telling me to only Rey and the south with the time we have, but your itinerary inspires me to think we can get it all done in our timeframe. Do you think we can do it?

Christine Wheeler

Tuesday 25th of May 2021

I think you can, but make sure there are things at the north side that you want to see. We loved the east side and the north side of Iceland, but we were running low on time for the north/west side because of the car breaking down. If you aren't doing big hikes, you'll have time to enjoy more of the waterfalls you can drive right up to and the other things you can experience without much hiking.

Sunday 20th of December 2020

What software id you use for your article. We are going ins September, 2021 and would like to use it so we have a photo album for the trip.

Monday 26th of April 2021

Hi Dean - I'm sorry, I'm not sure what you are asking. I use Wordpress for my blog if that is what you are asking.

Friday 14th of February 2020

These photos are amazing! We are looking at going in September for 6 days as well! How much did you spend to rent and fill up your car in order to do this itinerary?

Wednesday 27th of May 2020

I hope you get to go! We spent about $600 I believe for the rental car. The biggest thing is to look for 4 wheel drive.

Saturday 1st of February 2020

Hi! About how much did you spend for the 6 days? Trying to budget for when I go. Loved this itinerary. Thanks! :)

I'm not sure exactly. We didn't spent much on food - maybe $40 a day total for both of us. We tried to stay in places that included food and ate at a lot of gas stations because restaurants were expensive and uncommon outside of the main cities. We spent about $600 - $700 I think on the rental car. Hotels were about $100 - $150 a night and included breakfast for the most part. I don't remember gas prices, but we probably spent about $50 a day on gas with driving so much each day - I remember the gas being expensive per gallon and filling up about once a day or whenever we found a gas station :-)

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• Summer Iceland: Road Trip Adventure

Snorkel between two tectonic plates, kayak on a glacial lagoon & soak in geothermal hot pots overlooking the Arctic Ocean      

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Kayak on the incredible Jökulsarlón lagoon, where glittering icebergs calve off the glacier and float out to sea

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About your trip

Bubbling mud pots, simmering volcanoes and two continents literally pulling apart…this summer road trip through Iceland’s ethereal landscapes will invigorate and inspire you .

Over 10 epic days, you’ll embrace the spirit of pure wilderness as you twist and turn your way round the island. Your 4×4 journey will be packed with immersive activities, like kayaking next to luminous-blue icebergs in the stunning Jökulsárlón lagoon, soaking in geothermal hot springs overlooking the Arctic Ocean and snorkeling the ice-clear water of the extraordinary Silfra Rift – the gap between the tectonic plates increasing by a whopping (in geological terms) 2 cm each year.

There’ll be whale watching in deep fjords, crampon hikes across sparkling glaciers and lava bread baked in the ground. This is the land of the Midnight Sun and you’ll unravel its secrets Flash Pack style, with a group of like-minded adventurers.

What's Included

• Max 14 travellers per group
• Exclusively for people in their 30s & 40s
• All activities mentioned on the itinerary
• 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 2 dinners
• Hand-picked 3-4 star hotels
• Private 4x4 minibus
• Accommodation in twin, deluxe or family rooms with queen bunk beds
• Experienced Pack Leader with you throughout the trip
• Arrival airport transfer by Flybus

Flashpackers must provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their adventure. Remember, flights aren't included and prices are based on sharing a twin room. If you'd like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team. Please note: the room categories in some of the hotels may vary and these are assigned at random. Rest assured that all the rooms are characterful, comfortable and aligned with Flash Pack standards.

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Your Itinerary

Day 01 welcome to reykjavík.

Welcome to the world’s most northerly capital, a colorful bohemian town buzzing with creative energy. Your boutique hotel is located in the central 101 District, its historic streets lined with eye-catching architecture, quirky art galleries and offbeat cafes that transform into hip music venues by night. After meeting your Pack Leader and group, you’ll head out for a welcome dinner at a cozy brasserie and cocktail bar. Get to know your fellow Flashpackers over elegant dishes of Icelandic food and raise a glass of brennivin (schnapps) to the adventures to come. 

Day 02 SNORKEL BETWEEN TWO CONTINENTS

The open road awaits and you’ll start with a geologically supercharged tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle, taking in Thingvellir (the site of Iceland’s original Viking parliament), Geysir (the waterspout after which all others are named) and Gullfoss (the ‘Golden Waterfall’), with its rainbow colors shining through the mist. En route, you’ll stop at the dramatic Silfra Rift to snorkel in the icy clear water between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. With visibility up to 100 meters, it’s an experience like no other. Warm up at a geothermal bakery where lava bread is baked underground and taste the most delicious tomato soup at the famous Friðheimar greenhouse, before continuing to your chic base in the remote Central Highlands.

Day 03 Hike an otherworldly volcanic terrain

Much of Iceland’s interior is a vast volcanic desert, a barely habited landscape of bubbling mud pots, huge glaciers and rivers winding through rust-colored rhyolite hills pocked with steaming sulfur vents. This is where the wilderness really begins. You’ll spend the day exploring the untamed landscape around Kerlingarfjöll, a snow-covered summit criss-crossed with gravel tracks and spectacular hiking trails. After an active day, retreat from the elements at your highland base, a refuge of warm hospitality complete with hot thermal pools – a spectacular way to spend a wild summer’s evening. 

Day 04 Whale watching & microbrews

Traversing the rugged highlands, you’ll arrive at the Tröllaskagi Peninsula on Iceland’s north coast, a fairytale landscape of towering mountains and deep fjords, said to be inhabited by trolls. Keep your eyes peeled for wild Icelandic ponies as you travel towards the town of Hauganes, one of the best places in the country for a whale-whaling excursion. Boarding a classic oak boat, you’ll set off up the fjord in search of cetaceans, such as humpback whales, minke whales and white-beaked dolphins. Back on dry land, you’ll stop at a microbrewery to sample some of Iceland’s finest craft beers, before arriving at your hotel in Akureyri.  

Day 05 Geothermal relaxation

Iceland’s second-largest city makes a good base for exploring the geological wonders the north. First up, you’ll visit Lake Mývatn: a serene bird-filled lake dotted with pseudocraters and surrounded by weird lava formations. From here, you’ll travel east to the roaring falls of Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, fed by icy water from the massive Vatnajökull glacier. Take in the views over Ásbyrgi, a magnificent horseshoe-shaped canyon filled with lush birch forest – a rare sight in Iceland – before finishing your day at a spa in the quaint fishing village of Húsavík, soaking in hot mineral-rich sea baths overlooking the Arctic Ocean. 

Day 06 Explore the Eastfjords

Rejoining Route One, which circumnavigates the island, you’ll travel east to the beautiful Eastfjords, a convoluted coastline of picturesque villages backed by sheer-sided mountains. You’ll stop to explore the stunning Stuðlagil Canyon, a particularly photogenic spot with hexagonal basalt columns lining a river of blue-green glacial melt water. Then, it’s a short drive to Iceland’s second highest waterfall: Hengifoss. Stretch your legs with a hike to this narrow ribbon of water cascading down the straited red clay and black basalt cliffs, before arriving at your hotel in time for a hearty dinner.

Day 07 Kayak amongst glittering icebergs

There’s a long drive in store today, but the scenery is out of this world, transporting you through desolate volcanic plains, past lonely farms and around the tongues of glaciers. You’ll stop off for lobster sandwiches at a cute cafe in the harbor town of Höfn before arriving at the magical Jökulsárlón lagoon. You might recognize this sight from films such as James Bond, Tomb Raider and Batman Begins but nothing prepares you for its beauty. Together with your group, you’ll kayak out into the tranquil water, surrounded by ghostly blue icebergs carving off the glacier and spinning as they drift out to sea or glistening like diamonds washed up on the black sand.

Day 08 Puffin spotting & a glacier hike

Spend the morning exploring some more of the south coast’s dramatic sights, including one of Iceland’s best beaches: Reynisfjara. The sparkling jet-black sand is backed by towering basalt columns with spiky basalt stacks jutting out of the sea offshore. Take in the view from the Dyrhólaey rock arch, a popular puffin-nesting site in summer, before preparing to get wet at Seljalandsfoss waterfall as you clamber behind the thundering cascade. After lunch, you’ll strap on some crampons for a hike on the Sólheimajökull glacier. Led by an expert guide, you’ll crunch your way across the icy wonderland, past deep crevasses, jagged ridges and sink holes. 

Day 09 Relax in a hot river

After breakfast, get ready for a quintessential Icelandic experience: bathing in a hot river in the middle of the Icelandic countryside. The Reykjadalur Valley is a beautiful geothermal area dotted with steaming fumaroles and mud pools. You’ll hike for a few kilometers through emerald green hills until you reach the perfect spot for a dip. Depending how hot you like the water, you can go up or down river to find the right temperature. Feeling thoroughly relaxed, it’s time to return to Reykjavik for your final farewell dinner at one of the country’s top fish restaurants.

Day 10 UNTIL NEXT TIME, ICELAND

That’s it, you’ve completed your grand tour of Iceland and it’s time to make your own way to the airport for your onward journey home. You’ve travelled through some incredible landscapes and met incredible people along the way. To experience a different side to the country, why not return in winter for our Unknown Iceland adventure where you’ll search for the Northern Lights and explore by super Jeep.

Our Favourite Hotels

Here's a taste of the hotels we sometimes use on this adventure. Please note that we will be using different room categories including twin rooms, deluxe and a family rooms with queen bunk beds. The hotels you'll stay in for your departure will be shared with you one month before you go.

EXETER HOTEL, Reykjavík

With its loft-style interiors and industrial chic vibe, this contemporary design hotel is right in the heart of District 101. The city’s buzzing nightlife is close at hand, plus the hotel’s lively bar ensures an upbeat ambience.  

HIGHLAND BASE, Kerlingarfjöll

An upscale wilderness retreat surrounded by dramatic highland scenery. Spend your days hiking through the colorful glacial mountains and your evenings soaking up the views from a geothermal hot tub under the Arctic sky.

The Greenhouse Hotel, Hveragerði

A plant-filled hub of sustainability, featuring boutique guestrooms and a live music bar, alongside a collection of hip designer stores, ranging from Icelandic knitwear to household goods and a gourmet delicatessen. 

Fly into and out of Keflavík International Airport (KEF).

Please arrive in Reykjavik before 4 pm on Day 1. The welcome meeting and dinner will be from 6 pm onwards starting at the hotel, which is located approximately 45 minutes away from the airport.

On your final day, we recommend booking flights in the afternoon as you might want to relax in the morning. You are required to arrive in airport two to three hours before your flight.

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.

Airport transfers from Keflavik Airport (KEF) are by coach. You’ll be provided with a pre-paid ticket for the ‘Flybus’ before travelling.

Once you have collected your baggage and have passed through immigration, please follow the clear signs for the Flybus.

Flybus will take you into the center of Reykjavik and within walking distance of your hotel. In most cases you will need to change to a smaller coach at Reykjavík bus station which is the first stop on the way from the airport. You will be advised by the Flybus staff every step of your journey.

The departure transfer is not included, but your Pack Leader can help you arrange this.

Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:

• Pack Leader / Driver: 2500 ISK USD per day
• Local tips: your Pack Leader will be able to advise on how much to tip local guides, restaurants, etc. Some Pack Leaders will collect a tipping kitty at the welcome meeting to take care of local tips.

However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.

You do not normally need a visa if you’re visiting as a tourist from the EU, UK, USA, Australia or Canada. Please check with your local consulate/embassy if the country you are travelling from requires a visa or visit this website: https://island.is/s/utlendingastofnun .

From 2024, ETIAS travel authorization will be an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to European countries https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/what-etias_en.

We recommend that you have at least six months validity remaining on your passport and can show a return ticket.

You can see the Northern Lights from late August to May, but it’s best to visit between October and April when the night skies are much darker.

In the summer months, you can witness the Midnight Sun, when the sun doesn’t set below the horizon before 12am.  For six weeks either side of the June 21 summer solstice, you’ll experience nights when it never gets truly dark.

We recommend budgeting 7,000 ISK, the equivalent of 40 GBP / 55 USD per day.

This adventure is fast-paced and the glacier hike will challenge you. However, no specific level of fitness is required. We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above to make sure you are happy partaking in the activities mentioned. Please get in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.

The room categories in some of the hotels may vary and these are assigned at random. Please rest assured that all the rooms are characterful, comfortable and aligned with Flash Pack standards.

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities, and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.

OUR PROMISE

Joining the Flash Pack comes with a few special guarantees

Our mission to create 1 million friendships so we obsess over the group dynamic. Everyone is aged 30-49, 98% travel solo & 80% stay friends. Want to know more about your group? GET IN TOUCH

THE SECURITY

We operate using a 3rd party trust bank account meaning we guarantee refunds in 14 days if your trip has to be cancelled BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

Our trips are made up of ‘can’t-do-by-yourself’ experiences – think staying on your own private island in the Arctic and glamping in Land Rovers on the Serengeti SEE TRIPS

We only work with trusted local guides who know their destinations better than anyone.

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Destination Guides

17 jaw-dropping photos of Iceland to make you want to visit now

Snorkel between two tectonic plates, kayak on a glacial lagoon & soak in geothermal hot…

Flash Pack Editors 9th February 2019 0 min read

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The European Country Best Explored Via Road Trip, According To Travel Pro Rick Steves

I celand is a country so beautiful, it will have you believing in myths and fairytales once you spy its magical landscapes. According to a YouTube video on the website of European travel expert and writer Rick Steves, the best way to see Iceland is by car. The reason road-tripping is so perfect here is that Iceland's main road, Route 1, also known as the Ring Road, circles the entire country.

It is 820 miles long and provides easy access to some of Iceland's most stunning locations, which include black sand beaches, geysers, waterfalls, mountains, lava fields, craters, glaciers, and hot springs. Once you've got your itinerary in place, you just need to decide on the best time of year to visit Iceland . Depending on how much you want to see, a road trip can be anywhere from three days to three weeks as there are plenty of natural wonders in this Scandinavian country.

Read more: Safety Items You Should Pack For Your Next Road Trip

What You Need To Know About Driving In Iceland

In Iceland, they drive on the right and seatbelts are mandatory. Cars can easily be hired from the airport, or in the capital city of Reykjavík, just 45 minutes away. Steves recommends stopping at the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa  for a unique outdoor bathing experience. It's easy to visit as soon as you arrive or before you leave, as it's just 20 minutes from the airport.

Iceland is a great place for an electric vehicle road trip as it has high-speed chargers available along the route, powered by the island's geothermal energy. There is also plenty of great accommodation to be found along the way, especially in the towns that are close to popular areas of natural beauty.

The scenery in Iceland is so beautiful that the tourist board Visit Reykjavík actually warns drivers not to get distracted by the incredible views. If there is something you want to see, find a safe place to pull over and then you can photograph it to your heart's content. One important tip is to download an offline maps app, where you can mark the places you want to visit so you can still navigate to them if you don't have signal or Wi-Fi. Although, many Iceland car rental companies offer portable Wi-Fi devices that keep you connected throughout your trip.

Where To Visit On A Road Trip In Iceland

There are so many  reasons to visit Iceland , and some of the best are its geysers, waterfalls, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Steves also recommends the "Golden Circle," which includes the famous Gullfoss waterfall, geysers in the Haukadalur geothermal valley, and Thingvellir National Park. If you go clockwise around Iceland, you can leave the Ring Road to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula which is a gorgeous coastline with the black sand Djúpalónssandur Beach, Glymur waterfall, and Kirkjufell mountain.

Then you can follow the ring road to northern Iceland where you can see the traditionally built turf houses in Glaumbaer and the impressive Godafoss waterfall. The North Coast is also a great jumping-off point for a whale-watching trip. A stop at Mývatn is essential as you can visit the Mývatn Nature Baths, the Hverir geothermal area, the Dimmuborgir lava field, and the Hverfjall crater. On the way back along the Eastern and southern coasts of Iceland, be sure to see the Stuðlagil Canyon, the puffins at Borgarfjörður eystri, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, the Vatnajökull Glacier, and Skogafoss waterfall. This isn't an exhaustive list of attractions that you can reach from Iceland's ring road, and there are plenty more that you can add along the way!

Read the original article on Explore