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The Ultimate Iceland Itineraries: 5 Epic Iceland Road Trip Ideas

Justine Miranda — Sat, 16 Oct 2021 08:50:56 +0000

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.

Iceland Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Iceland

Justine Miranda — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 11:57:55 +0000

From black sand beaches to natural geothermal pools, discover the best of Iceland in our 3 Day Itinerary

Are you visiting Iceland and can’t decide for how long? Wondering which places to visit, which activities to book and experiences to undertake? Then read this guide, as we detail out a perfect itinerary of spending 3 days in Iceland.

Although seems like a small island, Iceland is a vast country with abundant attractions spread across the country. Trust me, when planning a perfect trip itinerary to Iceland, it may get overwhelming for you. Planning a suitable duration to schedule your trip is a confusing task, if not sure about which attractions to visit. But, let me help you out here with this Iceland travel guide!

A holiday as short as 3 Days is enough to explore some of the major highlights of the country. You can maximize your itinerary to cherish every bit of this land’s richness. Of course, the choice of activities, however, can be a little tricky to shortlist. It may depend on a traveler’s perspective, preference, and suitability. But I would love to share my Iceland travel guide with you guys that can be worth your visit.

The days may seem short or the travel may seem like a city break. However, I have ensured the itinerary is crammed with loads of Iceland’s beauty that will be enshrined in your memories forever.

Is 3 Days in Iceland Enough?

This is a very common question I get from travelers. And honestly, it depends on several factors – how much time do you have, your interests or the activities you want to do. While there is no perfect itinerary suitable for all, I created several Iceland road trip itineraries that you can check out. These itineraries vary from destination to destination, outdoor activities, and experiencing phenomena like Northern Lights & Midnight Sun.

But if you want to see all of Iceland, then the answer is two weeks. Yes, 3 days is enough to see to the country’s highlights + experiencing offbeat tracks. If this is not the period you want to choose, then 7-8 days is ideal to explore the country’s major touristic attractions. You can either explore only the southern coast of Iceland or maybe explore bits & parts of the whole country.

No matter how long you stay in Iceland, trips to this country are always worth cherishing. I’ve been to the country few times to experience different seasons & every time it has felt like a home to me. Thus, ensuring your trips are memorable too.

Essential Planning Tips for 3 Days in Iceland

it’s important to ensure your travel trips are smoother and much efficient. This section is mostly for beginners or first-time travelers to Iceland – who may not be aware of the country’s facts. This section details out few important things you might need to know before spending 3 days in Iceland.

Visa – To visit Iceland, you will require a Schengen Visa that allows you a stay for a maximum of 90 days.

Seasons – Iceland has got only two seasons– summer and winter. Both seasons offer unique experiences to tourists traveling. If visiting during the summer months, then you’ll have longer days to explore around the country. During June and July, the sunsets as late as midnight and you will get to witness the Midnight Sun. However, if traveling during the winter months – then you get the chance to observe the dazzling Northern Lights. The nights are darker, which enables you to catch this magical experience.

Getting Around Iceland – The best way to explore the country is through hiring a campervan or renting a car. A campervan is the most recommended option if planning for a 7+ day’s tour. You’ll save a good amount of money on accommodation & you can utilize that to book guided activities. Also, it’s advisable to keep in touch with a rental car company to ensure you get your booking done well in prior. During the summer period, cars book out quickly, especially the ones that are a lot cheaper!

Note: For our 3-day Iceland itinerary, we recommend booking a rental car for your travels. Having a rented car gives you the freedom and flexibility to manage your schedule.

Expenses – Iceland is not a cheap destination! Trust me, if not well planned – it will go expensive on your pocket. I will suggest you do your homework on the cost and expenses part, otherwise, you will end up spending more than what’s needed.

Overview of 3 Day Iceland Itinerary

The itinerary designed for this Iceland trip is open for all age-groups. I wanted to keep this a simple, yet fun-filled tour so that everyone can enjoy its unique experiences. Since, we only have limited time – I also wanted to ensure to include exploration of the best sights in Iceland. These includes visiting the Golden Circle, Reykjavik city, geothermal hot springs, lava craters, black sand beaches, and amazing waterfalls.

3 days in Iceland Schedule

Day 1: Arrival – Blue Lagoon – Reykjavik City Exploration
Day 2: Golden Circle Tour – Thingvellir National Park – Geysir Springs – Gullfoss Waterfall
Day 3: Seljalandsfoss – Skógafoss – Vik Village – Gljufrabui – Sólheimasandur – Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Vik

Map of 3 Day Iceland Itinerary

Check out the below route map for your Iceland trip.

Map for 3 Days in Iceland

Detailed Itinerary for 3 Days in Iceland

Day 1 | Exploring Reykjavik & Blue Lagoon

Upon your arrival in Iceland at Keflavík International Airport, I recommend you start your day by visiting the Blue Lagoon. I urge you to visit this attraction first, if in case you’ve had a long flight with multiple hauls.

Blue Lagoon

Any trip to Iceland is incomplete without visiting this top tourist attraction. Millions of tourists travel to Blue Lagoon every year and are one of the most popular places to stop by. Make sure you take one of the transfer buses that are officially run by Blue Lagoon.

Once you arrive, you will have to drop in your bags at the luggage center and check in. Blue Lagoon is strict in terms of hygiene maintenance. Thus, you will have to take a shower before getting into the pool. Once done, you’re all set to witness this place by yourself. Relax, rejuvenate and calm down your senses by taking a dip into the pool. No matter which season you visit, you’ll have a wonderful experience. When I visited during the winter months, it was snowing and it was simply a magnificent sight to watch!

An important note – You must book the tickets well in advance! You cannot just drop in, otherwise, it will be hard to find any reservation. There are several packages for Blue Lagoon offering different services and amenities. I recommend you to take the basic one, as it’s the most preferred ticket choice for all of us. However, it’s entirely up to you to upgrade your tickets to more premium ones.

If you need more details on planning a trip to Blue Lagoon, then read our in-depth guide – ‘The Ultimate Guide to the Blue Lagoon‘. It will give you a brief idea on transport, ticket prices, activities & accommodation.

If you’ve reached Blue Lagoon in the morning, then two-three hours is enough for the exploration. Try to hit Reykjavik by noon, so that you get ample time to explore the capital city.

Reykjavik

Your next stop after Blue Lagoon is the capital city of Iceland – Reykjavik. It’s a 44-minute drive from Blue Lagoon and is one of the prettiest towns I’ve ever visited. A simple stroll around the city will make you observe Reykjavik’s treasured beauty. The best way to explore downtown Reykjavik is by foot or bicycle. In this way, you can cover most of the famous stops.

Walk around the riverfront to check out the iconic sculpture work, known as the ‘Sun Voyager (Solfar)’. Along the harbor, you’ll also find another prime attraction – Harpa Concert Hall. If you continue to walk alongside the main street, you will end up at Reykjavik Maritime Museum – home to historic ships and exhibits on the local fishing industry.

You can stop by for lunch at Grandi Matholl to taste some of Iceland’s delicacies. Post lunch, make sure to visit one of Reykjavik’s most popular attractions – the church of Hallgrímskirkja. I’m pretty sure you must’ve seen this place by now while walking around the street. It’s almost visible from anywhere in the city. This tall Lutheran church is a majestic display of architecture that can be explored from the inside as well. You can access the top of the tower if interested in catching a 360-degree view of the city.

If you have some time in the late afternoon, then do visit Flyover Iceland. It’s a true experience for adults & children, with full-motion-based seating, elevating you up to a 20-meter height. The visual film display will take you on an exhilarating journey across Iceland, with special effects including –wind, mist, scents, and a musical score. Worth visiting this place if you are traveling in a small group or with family.

The exploration doesn’t end here, as the city of Reykjavik will be buzzing with nightlife. The lanes at the heart of the city will lead you to some amazing pubs, bars, and restaurants. Indulge in the colorful and vibrant nightlife – meet with locals – experience various cuisines and drink like a true Viking!

Alternatively, you can also consider the below guided tour for a different activity altogether.

Day 2 | Highlights of the Golden Circle

Your second day in Iceland is loaded with natural attractions that include exploring the Golden Circle, majestic waterfalls, hiking trails, and photogenic spots. Before you start your journey, my suggestion will be to pack some food en route, so that you don’t go hungry!

The Golden Circle starts and ends at Reykjavik. The road will take you first to the Thingvellir National Park, after which you will visit some of Iceland’s mighty waterfalls. The total journey will take you approx. 7-8 hours. So I suggest you start early in the morning by 8 or 9 am, enabling you to reach back Reykjavik in the late afternoon. This will ensure that you also have some evening time off to spend at the capital center.

Thingvellir National Park

One of the UNESCO sites of Iceland – Thingvellir National Park has become popular amongst tourists over the years due to its rich history and striking beauty. Excellent choice for short hiking trails, this is also where the first parliament took place during the Viking Era. It’s quite an interesting place to visit and to explore the parliament – which was responsible for shaping the history of Iceland. Although you won’t see any big city halls or a grand display of monumental structure depicting the Parliament, it’s something very unique & traditional to understand how instrumental this place has been.

Thingvellir National Park is also popular because of its geological traits that fascinate many travelers. This is where the North American and Eurasian plates touch. It’s only in Iceland that you can get to see the rifts, and nowhere in the world can you see the tectonic plates as clearly as in Thingvellir National Park. There’s also a natural lake called Silfra where you can opt to snorkel or dive. The activity has fewer requirements and can be done by tourists above age twelve.

Post your exploration of Thingvellir, you will travel towards another prime attraction of Golden Circle – Geysir Hot Spring.

Optional – Before reaching Geysir, you will come across Brúarfoss Waterfall. It is not much known and not an official point of the Golden Circle route. But, this is something that I witnessed and found out amazing! It’s a great location to click some photos for your Instagram posts!

Geysir

It’s time to explore the geological wonders of Iceland! Geysir Hot Springs is one of the most popular stops in Iceland. It’s a must-visit place if on the Golden Circle route. If you’ve never witnessed a geyser before, then this is something worth watching. There are two geysers in the Golden Circle route – Strokkur and the great Geysir.

The most active one in the region is the Strokkur which erupts every 2-3 minutes. Just wait and be ready with your cameras to capture the sight. Not only Strokkur, but the region has many hot springs, boiling mud pits, and small geysers. You can even boil an egg near the boiling water from the mud pits!

There are quite a few restaurants here to have a quick lunch. If you got something packed, then you can skip your lunch & move towards your final point – Gulfoss waterfalls.

Gulfoss

You might’ve seen some waterfalls along your way, but trust me – there’s nothing like Gulfoss! One of the mighty waterfalls of Iceland – this is the most photogenic place in the country. It’s also one of the highlights of your 3 days in Iceland itinerary. The water from Gulfoss streams down the Langjökull glacier and then cascades into Gulfoss 32 meters down. It’s an incredible sight to watch the natural force of the water running downwards with its full power.

There are two observation areas to view each side of the waterfall. You can simply take a leisurely walk to reach one of the areas to capture photos. The closer you get, the surreal will be the experience. Make sure you have waterproof jackets on to enjoy the views safely. There’s also a small café nearby – Gulfoss Panorama Café, from where you can catch the glorious views of Gulfoss.

This concludes your Golden Circle sight-seeing tour and you’re good to head back to Reykjavik.

Day 3 | Exploring the Southern Coast

The last day of your 3 days in Iceland is loaded with southern Iceland’s major attractions. The total journey to & fro will be almost 4 hours, but it will take a total of 9-10 hours for your total travel (including visits to each location). It’s advisable to start your day 3 early morning so that you can reach Reykjavik in the late afternoon.

Start early morning by driving towards the southernmost point of Iceland – Vik. The journey to the south is so lovely, that no matter what – you’ll see some of the country’s most amazing landscape features. You’ll pass through lava fields, volcanic craters, and black sand.

Seljalandsfoss

Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss waterfall. While Iceland is home to numerous waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss is one that you shouldn’t miss if on a southern coastal tour. This waterfall offers visitors a path to walk behind it. Thus, you’ll get even closer to photograph this splendid display. Make sure you wear waterproof jackets and keep your distance from danger points. The best time to visit and avoid crowds is during the morning. You’ll likely get fewer visitors and thus you can move around the place nicely.

Gljufrabui

If you walk just a few miles left to the Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, you’ll find another hidden gem – Gljufrabui waterfalls. Not many visitors are aware of this spot, but we got you covered. There’s always fun to find out and explore hidden locations of a place. I didn’t know if this waterfall earlier, but then during my second visit to Iceland, I made sure I don’t miss out. So make sure you reach Gljufrabui & get enough snapshots of it!

Skogarfoss

Next stop is the Skogarfoss waterfall. If you think you’ve seen enough with Seljalandsfoss & Gljufrabui, then you’re probably wrong! One of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland – Skogarfoss can be seen from the Ring Road as well. If the view isn’t right for you, then climb up 527 steps to get another perspective of the waterfall. Just be careful while you walk along, and take proper clothing precautions to not get wet. From the top, you can see the southern part of the Ring Road that offers magnificent views too!

Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

Just a little ahead of Skogarfoss waterfall, you’ll come across a unique site – Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck. Well, the site looks scary but worry not! No one died in this plane crash. The accident is believed to happen due to some human error and since then the crashed plane has been a tourist site for all travelers. It’s right in the middle of a black sand beach, and it makes your stop worth it!

The crashed plane has been featured in many documentaries, shows, and movies and since then it has become quite a popular tourist attraction. If you’ve parked your car near Skogarfoss waterfall, then the walk may be a bit long (approx. 30-45 minutes). So if you aren’t traveling during summer, make sure you travel to the location fast enough before it gets dark.

Rejnisfjara Black sand beach

I’m pretty sure you must’ve seen this place somewhere – maybe in films or TV series. If not, this place has also been a desktop wallpaper for a lot many people (not even kidding). It’s one of my favorite locations in Iceland and the beach is as beautiful as it can get.

Voted by National Geographic – as one of the Top 10 non-tropical beaches – this place offers stunning panoramic views against the roaring Atlantic waves. With enormous basalt stacks & dramatic tides, this place can potentially be dangerous too. Meaning, the strong forces of Reynisfjara are violent and can sweep you away into the sea. So never turn your back against the waves & be careful of the surrounding. Not to forget – you can also meet up with Icelandic horses. If horse-riding is your thing, then why not do it?

Vik Village

Post your exploration at Reynisfjara, drive up ahead to reach this little cute town of Vik. It only has 300 residents staying in and often serves tourists as a stop-by place to relax, recharge and travel ahead. Plenty of options here to try out Icelandic cuisines and if you want to stay for a night, you can do so. If not, then you can travel back to Reykjavik in the late afternoon.

To ease out your efforts for day 3 planning, you can consider booking a full-guided tour to south Iceland that covers all of the activities I mentioned above. It goes well with the planning & will compliment your itinerary nicely.

This concludes your 3 Day Iceland Itinerary, and I’m sure you must’ve felt satisfied with the destinations & tourist highlights included. If you want to extend your itinerary, do check out my other itinerary guides – 5 Day Iceland, 7 Day Iceland, and the Ring Road Iceland Tour.

From Vik, you can continue your journey south-west to Jökulsárlón and Vatnajökull National Park. Accordingly, you can stretch your southern Iceland tour even to a greater extent.

Accommodation for 3 Days in Iceland

There are plenty of options for Iceland accommodation. Be it luxury hotels, budget stays, hostels, campsites, and campervans – Iceland has it for you!

It is no secret that Iceland is an expensive country. If not planned well, things may go heavy on your pocket. So even if you’re a budget traveler, the country will make sure to put down options that suit you! Airbnbs help a lot when it comes to accommodation and you can find a pretty good range of them across the country.

Many of the Airbnbs have a ‘shared accommodation option that lets you share space with other guests. This is more affordable in terms of room cost, plus it will save you a lot of money if your itinerary is long. If the option doesn’t suit you, then do not fret. Most of the Airbnbs also have the option of ‘entire accommodation’. It depends on your choice & budget preference after all.

I also suggest checking out Tripadvisor. This is where you can compare prices for different hotel platforms and book the cheapest one available. I always use this as my go-to hotel rate checks to find the best deal for the right property.

During my 3-day visit to Iceland, I stayed in a mixed sort of accommodation – that included Airbnb and hotels. I wanted to experience it all under different circumstances, thus ensuring you get the right info presented.

Since you will be staying in Reykjavik for this itinerary, I have mentioned a detailed list of hotels that might help you decide –

Luxury Hotels in Reykjavik –

Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre – Located at a 5-minute from Reykjavik Harbour (near Sun Voyager)
Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection By Hilton – Located right next to the Icelandic Phallological Museum.
Tower Suites Reykjavik – Located near Höfdi House.
Hotel Borg by Keahotels – Opposite to the Icelandic Punk Museum. Budget Hotels in Iceland
Central Guesthouse Reykjavik – Located next to Lake Tjörnin.
Kex Hostel Reykjavik – Located near Sun Voyager.
Aurora Guesthouse – Located next to Hallgrimskirkja.
Hotel Fron – Located in downtown Reykjavik

Budget Hotels in Iceland –

Central Guesthouse Reykjavik – Located next to Lake Tjörnin.
Kex Hostel Reykjavik – Located near Sun Voyager.
Aurora Guesthouse – Located next to Hallgrimskirkja.
Hotel Fron – Located in downtown Reykjavik

Well, that’s all! Hope you liked my curated itinerary for a 3 day trip to Iceland. I will be updating the post frequently with more suggestions, travel tips & unique excursions. So do you keep a tab on this blog-post.