Are you planning a trip to Iceland? Looking for the best Iceland itinerary? Then our in-depth guide will walk you through some of the best Iceland itineraries.
Iceland, a land of smoldering active volcanoes, rugged rock formations, black sand beaches, the forces of roaring Atlantic waves, and geothermal hot springs. But have we omitted anything in our attempt to encapsulate the beauty of this heavenly land?
This is Iceland. A destination that stands apart.
Iceland presents travellers with a one-of-a-kind chance to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. From the bustling streets of Reykjavik to the southern coast of Jökulsárlón, this country is brimming with captivating landscapes and natural marvels.
However, planning the perfect Iceland road trip is a common question among travellers, and it’s a task influenced by various factors.
Creating the ideal Iceland trip itinerary hinges on your season preference, the duration of your stay, and your desired level of exploration. There isn’t a single Icelandic itinerary that will satisfy every traveller’s needs, but I’ve crafted multiple options to ensure you have a range of plans at your disposal.
If you require destination-specific information about the country, we recommend reading this comprehensive guide first. It covers Iceland’s most significant attractions, major tourist destinations, and an abundance of exciting excursions to enhance your trip.
These Iceland itineraries are meant to show you what’s worth visiting & how much time it takes to see them. I’ve also made sure these itineraries are packed with scenic spots, emphasizing the natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes that Iceland has to offer.
Best Time to Visit Iceland
The best time to visit Iceland largely depends on your personal preferences and what kind of experiences you’re seeking. Iceland’s two primary seasons, winter and summer, each offer distinct experiences.
1. Winter (October to March):
- Northern Lights: One of the major draws of visiting Iceland in winter is the opportunity to witness the enchanting Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The dark nights provide optimal conditions for this natural light display.
- Winter Activities: Winter also opens up a range of exciting activities such as ice caving, glacier hiking, and snowmobiling on glaciers.
- Fewer Crowds: Iceland tends to be less crowded during the winter months, allowing for a more peaceful and intimate experience with its natural wonders.
2. Summer (June to August):
- Midnight Sun: In summer, Iceland experiences the Midnight Sun, where daylight extends almost around the clock. This provides ample time for exploration and outdoor activities.
- Warmer Temperatures: Summer brings milder temperatures, making it a more comfortable time for activities like hiking and camping.
- Accessible Highlands: The highland regions and some remote areas become more accessible during the summer months when the snow has melted.
Furthermore, travelling during the summer in Iceland offers the advantage of extended daylight hours. While the weather can be unpredictable, especially in this land of natural wonders, the summer season generally brings milder and more favourable conditions. This makes exploring various attractions via road trips a breeze, allowing you to make the most of your journey.
Best Time to Take an Iceland Road Trip
For trips lasting up to one week, the shorter Iceland itineraries are suitable year-round. If you’re planning a winter visit, follow the route outlined in the guide below, and you’ll have a great chance to witness the captivating Northern Lights.
However, longer itineraries, such as the 10-day trip to Northwest Iceland and the 14-day Ring Road journey, are recommended for the summer season, when the weather is more accommodating for extensive exploration.
Best Iceland Road Trip Itineraries
Iceland Itinerary 3 Days
Many travellers may not have the inclination for extended journeys, and some might prefer a brief city break or a half-day excursion to experience a country’s highlights. This itinerary has been crafted with such preferences in mind, offering a concise yet comprehensive experience of the country’s attractions for those on short trips.
I usually don’t prefer short travels, because you miss out on many experiences. But then everyone has their specific travel requirement. This itinerary to Iceland will give you a glimpse of the country in just 3 days to cater to all.
Overview for 3 Days in Iceland –
- Day 1 – Blue Lagoon + Reykjavik City Tour
- Day 2 – The Golden Circle Tour + Reykjavik Night Scenes
- Day 3 – The Southern Coast Tour
On day one of your Iceland itinerary, you’ll dive right into one of the country’s most renowned destinations – the Blue Lagoon. Here you indulge yourself in the soothing waters of this geothermal spa, allowing your mind, body, and soul to rejuvenate amidst the natural beauty.
Later in the afternoon, it’s time to explore the captivating highlights of Reykjavik. Your itinerary will include visits to iconic landmarks such as the Sun Voyager (Solfar) sculpture, the modern architectural wonder of the Harpa Concert Hall, the Reykjavik Maritime Museum to delve into the city’s maritime history, and the awe-inspiring Hallgrímskirkja church. Each of these sites offers a unique perspective on Reykjavik’s culture, history, and artistic expression.
Day two of your journey will take you on an exciting drive to explore the Golden Circle Route, a trio of prime Icelandic attractions – Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Hot Springs area, and the magnificent Gulfoss Waterfall. As you embark on this scenic drive, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring landscapes, with dramatic natural beauty at every turn.
Day three of your adventure will take you on a journey to explore the natural beauty of Iceland’s south coast. This leg of your trip will include visits to the charming village of Vik, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and breathtaking scenery.
You’ll also have the opportunity to stroll along the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, known for their dramatic rock formations and crashing waves. Don’t forget to capture the stunning Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls in all their glory.
Read: For more detailed tour info, check out our guide – 3 Days in Iceland (An Epic Icelandic Adventure). It majorly covers all locations, hidden spots, essential travelling tips, and Icelandic facts.
If you haven’t rented a car and looking for guided tours, do check out these amazing full-day Golden Circle excursions from Reykjavik that are worth it! For southern Iceland experiences, this full-day south coast saga will complement your itinerary well.
Iceland Itinerary 4 Days
This 4-day Iceland itinerary is simply an extension to your previous 3-day tour. If anyone would love to extend their travel to maximize more adventure, they can have multiple choices. To help you plan out a 4-day trip to Iceland, take a look at the below outline –
Overview for 4 Days in Iceland –
- Day 1 – Blue Lagoon + Reykjavik City Tour
- Day 2 – The Golden Circle Tour + Reykjavik Night Scenes
- Day 3 – The Southern Coast Tour
- Day 4 – Jökulsárlón + Vatnajökull National Park
The trip outline for Day1-3 is the same as your 3 days Iceland tour. I’ve added an extension course that will ideally add up to your southern experience i.e., Jökulsárlón and Vatnajökull National Park.
With an extra day at your disposal, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a plethora of activities that Vatnajökull National Park has to offer. Delve into the world of glacier lagoons as you discover the striking beauty of Jökulsárlón and take a stroll along the diamond beach adorned with glistening icebergs.
For an even more intimate experience, consider embarking on a boat ride on the lagoon, allowing you to get up close and personal with this natural wonder.
If adventure is your cup of tea, then do take one of the many hike trails in Vatnajökull National Park. If you aren’t sure which, then this 5-hour Skaftafell glacier hike should be on your bucket list. No matter what activity you indulge in, the southern coast of Iceland will make you spellbound with its striking beauty.
Is it safe to visit Iceland?
According to the reports shared by the Global Peace Index, Iceland has been ranked as the safest country to visit every year since 2008. It is still the safest country, with rare robbery crimes and pickpocketing cases. Major violent crimes are almost non-existent.
Iceland Itinerary 6 Days
This 6-day Iceland itinerary presents an ideal way to uncover the major highlights of this country. It’s worth noting that the majority of travellers who venture to Iceland opt for an average stay of six nights. This duration allows you to efficiently explore the stunning landscapes and attractions that Iceland has to offer.
For your 6-day trip, the first four days will be the same as your previous itinerary course (with a bit of detour).
Overview for 6 Days in Iceland –
- Day 1 – Reykjavik City Tour
- Day 2 – Snaefellsnes Full-Day Excursion
- Day 3 – The Golden Circle Route (Including Kerid Crater)
- Day 4 – Landmannalaugar Full-Day Excursion
- Day 5 – The Southern Coast Tour
- Day 6 – Reykjavik + Blue Lagoon
Some additional/optional trips –
- Visit Heimaey Island
- Visit Haifoss Waterfalls
- Book a glacial guided tour/ hiking trail experience
- Explore Skogar Museum, the glacial lagoon of Fjallsarlon, and the Eldhraun lava field
You can always tweak this itinerary in your own way. Maybe add more hours to hiking at Vatnajökull National Park or explore the famous Svartifoss waterfalls while taking the southern coast.
You can also book guided glacial tours from a tour operator well in advance. Check out these fantastic glacial hike tours that include a full-day activity experience.
Travel Tip – Many travellers do not tend to keep Blue Lagoon towards the end of their itinerary. But in fact, having it towards the end helps. As you can observe, your 6-day Iceland itinerary is brimming with distinctive locations, off-the-beaten-path tours, and an array of optional activities. The packed schedule might become tiring at times, making the Blue Lagoon a perfect finale. This way, you can fully relax and rejuvenate at the Blue Lagoon, ensuring you get the most out of this iconic Icelandic experience.
Read: If you want to know more about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, do check out our most recommended guide – ‘The Ultimate Guide to Blue Lagoon‘. It details everything you need to know about visiting this place.
Iceland Itinerary 6 Days – West & North Region
This can be an alternative itinerary for you to explore Iceland’s western + northern regions. Quite popular amongst tourists, this route is usually a part of the entire Ring Road of Iceland tour.
Consider taking this up if you’ve decided to travel to Iceland during the summer season.
Overview for 6 Days in Iceland (West & North) –
- Day 1 – Reykjavik + Blue Lagoon
- Day 2 – The Golden Circle Route
- Day 3 – Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- Day 4 – Snaefellsnes Peninsula + Snæfellsjökull National Park
- Day 5 – Hvitserkur – Blönduós – Akureyri
- Day 6 – Akureyri – Mývatn – Akureyri
A self-drive journey to the north of Iceland is unbelievably dramatic. There’s a lot to see and do when you travel to the north of Iceland. What’s even more enticing is the sheer abundance of exploration opportunities.
For those with extra time to spare, consider extending your itinerary by adding a few extra days to visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the vibrant city of Akureyri.
The highlight of the tour is – Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This region boasts sweeping coastal vistas that will leave you yearning to linger a while longer. Here, you can catch sight of the striking Gerðuberg basalt cliffs and the invigorating Ölkelda Mineral Spring or keep an eye out for seals basking at Ytri Tunga beach.
Perhaps take a relaxing dip in the Lýsuhólslaug swimming pool, or embark on an adventure to explore the storied Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge and the echoing Sönghellir cave.
Not to forget, you have a couple of days here – so make sure you take up a glacial hike at Snæfellsjökull National Park.
As you move to the upper country, you will come across this pretty little town of Akureyri. Explore the Laufas Turf Houses, Akureyri Church, and the Arctic Botanical Gardens in the city, or go horse-riding or whale-watching. This city is also a gateway to some of Iceland’s northern beauty. You can take guided tours/self-excursions to the Myvatn region, Dettifoss waterfall, Godafoss waterfall, and Asbyrgi canyon.
Some optional activities for you-
- Explore the nearby islands of Hrisey and Grimsey (via Akureyri).
- Visit the Grjotagja hot spring (via Akureyri)
- Explore the Arnarstapi village (via Snæfellsjökull National Park)
- Spot the famous Kirkjufell Mountain (via Snæfellsjökull National Park)
- Take up the Borgavirki hiking trail (via Hvitserkur)
Do Icelanders speak English?
Almost every Icelander in the country speaks fluent English, and it’s their second taught language in the country, enabling them to interact with non-Icelanders well. Moreover, most locals also speak other languages such as German, Spanish, French, and Danish. Thus, language won’t be a problem if you plan on visiting Iceland.
Iceland Itinerary 7 Days
For travelers interested in exploring the eastern land of Iceland – this 7-day Iceland itinerary will be best suited. If you’ve opted for the Iceland ring road itinerary, you’ll come across all the locations listed in our schedule below.
Most travelers who plan their Iceland road trip often settle for this duration, and not many would like to go on a journey that’s more than 10-12 days, considering time and budget. However, 7 days in Iceland makes it perfect for exploring significant highlights of the country’s north & eastern-most portion.
Overview for Iceland Itinerary 7 days –
- Day 1 – Reykjavik City Tour + Blue Lagoon
- Day 2 – Reykjavik – Akureyri (Flight – 45mins)
- Day 3 – Akureyri – Lake Myvatn – Vopnafjörður
- Day 4 – Vopnafjörður – Egilsstaðir
- Day 5 – Egilsstaðir – Seydisfjordur – Mjóifjörður – Neskaupstadur
- Day 6 – Neskaupstadur – Eskifjörður – Reyðarfjörður – Breiðdalsvík – Djúpivogur
- Day 7 – Djúpivogur – Hofn – Jökulsárlón
To cover more of the eastern beauty and save time, you’ll be required to take a direct flight to Akureyri from Reykjavik. You can manage your 7 days in Iceland pretty well by exploring other attractions.
Your eastern journey starts from Vopnafjörður; stop by Bustarfell Museum to learn a little about Iceland’s history. Continue your scenic drive against the extensive coastline and explore the Skjólfjörur – Ljósastapi hiking trails. Catch a glimpse at Gljúfursá waterfalls and explore the highland farms of the area.
As you travel from Vopnafjörður to Egilsstaðir, you’ll see some of Iceland’s mighty waterfalls – Litlanesfoss and Rjúkandi. Do not miss some of the other attractions here in the region, including Hallormsstadur Forestry Reserve, Fardagafoss, and Stuðlagil Canyon.
Then along the eastern route, you will come across some of the country’s most beautiful towns & villages – Seydisfjordur, Mjóifjörður, and Neskaupstadur. Set along the harbour, you can opt for some other outdoor activities in the region of Reyðarfjörður and Breiðdalsvík. Go kayak in the fjords of Eskifjörður, or just take a day-long thrilling trek at Mjóifjörður.
Also, never forget delicious Icelandic cuisine! As you travel through these charming villages, the towns will warmly welcome you to try out their local produce wines & drinks. You won’t be able to resist some of their bakery items too.
Travelling through eastern Iceland is one unique experience. Since the activities and off-beat tours are endless to explore – you can always add a couple more days to this 7-day Iceland itinerary.
Iceland Ring Road Itineraries
It’s time to show what the Ring Road itineraries offer. Ring Road is a circuit that loops around the entire country, showing you Iceland’s nature in the best possible way. Travelers who are not in the country for short stays often book a rental car or a campervan to break the loop.
And honestly, driving the ring road is one of the best ways to see all of Iceland.
You can always stop by at a particular location & indulge in one of the many offbeat activities the region offers. Since I want the Iceland ring road itinerary suitable for all – I’ve designed three different outlines for your travel. These routes will differ in location and the duration of the course.
Simultaneously, ensure that you visit Iceland’s iconic places on each below routes.
The below 10 days, 14 days, and 17 days ring road itineraries will help you plan your travel accordingly. The route is carefully thought through so that your journey doesn’t become much hectic.
10 Days in Iceland – The Ring Road Iceland Itinerary
- Day 1 – Reykjavik + The Golden Circle Tour
- Day 2 – Snaefellses Peninsula
- Day 3 – Snaefellses Peninsula & National Park
- Day 4 – Snaefellses to Akureyri
- Day 5 – Akureyri
- Day 6 – Akureyri – Lake Myvatn – Detifoss – Vopnafjörður
- Day 7 – Vopnafjörður – Egilsstaðir – Mjóifjörður – Eskifjörður
- Day 8 – Eskifjörður – Jökulsárlón, Iceland – Vatnajökull National Park
- Day 9 – Vatnajökull – Vik – Seljalandsfoss – Reykjavík
- Day 10 – Reykjavik + Blue Lagoon
These 10 days in Iceland will make you explore some of the country’s major tourist spots – from central Iceland to the northern land and then to the Eastern & Southern coast region. It’s a perfect duration to see all of the country’s beauty in just a 10-day itinerary.
14 Days in Iceland – The Ring Road Iceland Itinerary
- Day 1 – Reykjavik + The Golden Circle Tour – Kerid Crater
- Day 2 – Snaefellses Peninsula
- Day 3 – Snaefellses Peninsula & National Park
- Day 4 – Snaefellses to Akureyri
- Day 5 – Akureyri
- Day 6 – Excursion to Hrisey and Grimsey Islands
- Day 7 – Akureyri – Lake Myvatn – Detifoss – Vopnafjörður
- Day 8 – Vopnafjörður – Egilsstaðir – Mjóifjörður – Eskifjörður
- Day 9 – Eskifjörður – Höfn
- Day 10 – Höfn- Jökulsárlón – Vatnajökull National Park
- Day 11 – Vatnajökull – Vik Village
- Day 12 – Vik Village – Landmannalaugar
- Day 13 – Vik – Seljalandsfoss – Skogafoss – Reykjavík
- Day 14 – Reykjavik + Blue Lagoon
This Iceland itinerary for 14 days is specifically designed for travelers who have a full 2-weeks time to travel. With an ample amount of excursions, offbeat tracks, and glacial hiking tours – 14 day Ring Road trip is ideal for most travelers.
17 Days in Iceland – The Ring Road Iceland Itinerary
- Day 1 – Reykjavik + The Golden Circle Tour – Kerid Crater
- Day 2 – Snaefellses Peninsula
- Day 3 – Snaefellses Peninsula & National Park
- Day 4 – Snaefellses to Látrabjarg
- Day 5 – Látrabjarg – Hnjótur – Rauðisandur – Dynjandi – Ísafjörður
- Day 6 – Ísafjörður – Hornstrandir Nature Reserve – Ísafjörður
- Day 7 – Ísafjörður – Akureyri (stop by at Hvisterkur)
- Day 8 – Akureyri
- Day 9 – Excursion to Hrisey and Grimsey Islands
- Day 10 – Akureyri – Lake Myvatn – Detifoss – Vopnafjörður
- Day 11 – Vopnafjörður – Egilsstaðir – Mjóifjörður – Eskifjörður
- Day 12 – Eskifjörður – Höfn
- Day 13 – Höfn- Jökulsárlón – Vatnajökull National Park
- Day 14 – Vatnajökull – Vik Village
- Day 15 – Vik Village – Landmannalaugar
- Day 16 – Vik – Seljalandsfoss – Skogafoss – Reykjavík
- Day 17 – Reykjavik + Blue Lagoon
This 17-day Ring Road of Iceland is the ultimate tour of all. Not only do you get to visit the known attractions of Iceland, but also an under-rated region – the Westfjords.
Westfjords hasn’t been covered in my previous itineraries – but you could always have a simple 6 to 7 day trip to this region. This is a bucket-list itinerary for many tourists dreaming of seeing all of Iceland. Especially when you travel for so long – you ought to come across unspoiled places in the region.
Accommodation in Iceland
Accommodation becomes a crucial stage in planning a trip to Iceland. it becomes an important step to understand where you will stay in each of the regions. For shorter itineraries – covering the capital city, the golden circle, and the south coast – selecting accommodation becomes easier and you’ll find the best deals if booked online. For longer itineraries – the planning becomes effortful.
But it’s always important to know that Iceland is an expensive country. If you don’t sort your accommodation well, the trip may get pricy enough.
My suggestion is – if you’ve decided to travel for more than 7 days, book a campervan. It is one of the best ways to explore the country. Moreover, any road trips are better off with a campervan or RV. If not, you can get yourself a rental car for Iceland road trips.
To get cheap accommodation in Iceland, try booking hotels from Iceland’s Airbnb. The hotels are decent and you get plenty of amenities to access as well. If you still worry about the prices, then go for shared accommodation – where you’ll share your room with some other guests. This way you cut down prices, and you can utilize the allocated budget to book activities on tour.
Alternatively, you can check Tripadvisor – to compare hotel rates and find the best deals.
FAQ for Iceland Trips
- How to get to Iceland?
Getting to Iceland is straightforward, as the country’s sole entry point is Keflavik International Airport. Regardless of your departure location, all travelers arriving by air must land at this designated airport. Once you’ve touched down, it’s just a short 40-minute drive to reach the charming capital city of Reykjavik.
- What is the best time to visit Iceland?
The best time to explore Iceland is during the summer season, which falls between July and August. These months are favoured by tourists for the relatively warmer weather and pleasant conditions. On the other hand, travelling in June gives you 24 hours of daylight. But, even during this period, frequent rains and strong winds are not uncommon.
- What is the cheapest month to visit Iceland?
The most budget-friendly times to travel to Iceland are generally from September to November and from January to May. During these periods, you can often find lower hotel rates and encounter fewer crowds, making it a cost-effective option for exploring the country. Travelling during the off-season allows you to reduce expenses while still enjoying a fulfilling experience in Iceland.
- Do you need cash when travelling to Iceland?
No, you don’t. Credit cards are accepted by everyone around the country. Visa and MasterCard will work fine, as they are accepted by all Icelandic banks. The currency in Iceland is ISK (Icelandic Krona)
- How many days do you need for the Iceland Road Trip?
A minimum of 1 week (7 days) of travel is recommended. Extending your trip to 2 or even 3 weeks is even better for a more immersive experience. However, it’s still possible to have a worthwhile adventure with an itinerary of fewer than 7 days, although you may need to prioritize and may miss out on some incredible experiences.
- Is Iceland expensive?
Yes, Iceland is expensive if your travelling is not planned well. It always depends on the choices you make while travelling – be it accommodation, food preference, or booking a guided tour. Some of the activities may cost supremely high and thus I advise you to compare plans. Then comes your rental car expenses, daily or weekly costs plus any other attraction that you book on tour. A suggestion is to book everything well in advance. Doing so will help you reduce your tour costs effectively.
Further Readings & Resources
Explore Iceland’s Itineraries – 5 Epic Road Trips (+ Iceland Ring Road Itineraries)
Experiences in Iceland – 12 Stunning Things to Do in Iceland in October
Discover Iceland – Guide To Iceland’s Amazing Attractions
Iceland Diaries – Guide To 3 Days In Iceland
The Blue Lagoon – The Ultimate Guide to the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
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