Need help to plan your 10 day itinerary in Iceland?
There is so much to see that it can be difficult to narrow it down and balance your days.
Below are 4 suggestions: Ring Road itinerary 10 days, in depth South, in depth North and adventure trip.
You will have a blast with any of them!
This article contains affiliate links (Disclosure page). If you purchase using my link, I get a commission at no extra cost to you.
10 days in Iceland (Summer) - Essentials to know
How to get around Iceland over 10 days
Best option = renting a car
All the amazing locations included are easy to access.
So you can rent any standard car.
The driving on this itinerary will be very easy. Don't worry!
I recommend:
- Comparing car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com - it is one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
- Booking early to have a large choice of vehicles (you will not find any last-minute deal, the island is very popular!)
- Reading all my tips about renting a car in Iceland
Driving in Iceland
Group tours
If you really don't want to drive, you can still see a lot of Iceland.
I recommend you spend some days in Reykjavik and discover the rest of the island with a guide and driver.
For example, you can choose an 8-day Summer tour with a small group - see itinerary and availability
Or you can book day trips or multi-day trips from Reykjavik.
Bus
I really don't recommend it. Using public transportation will really limit what you are able to see.
They don't stop at attractions but in towns.
What can you see with 10 days in Iceland?
You can actually see a lot with 10 days.
You won't be able to visit the entire country, but you can go on a road trip to cover most regions around the Ring Road.
You will be able to see most of the famous locations without driving like crazy every day.
You can see: fjords, glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, lava fields, icebergs, waterfalls, lava cave...
In this article, my best 10 days Iceland itineraries cover :
- 10 days Ring Road all around Iceland - jump to itinerary
- 10 days to explore South Iceland in depth - jump to itinerary
- 10 days to explore the North in depth - jump to itinerary
- 10 days of adventure - enjoy a different fun and exhilarating activity each day - jump to itinerary
Essentials for your 10 day trip to Iceland
- Book your accommodations early as well – Iceland is popular and in some area, choice can be limited (although the offering is growing) - see the wide offering on Booking.com
- Learn more in my article about the best areas to stay in Iceland
- Don't plan too much every day - you will get frustrated not to be able to stop as much since it is stunning everywhere
- 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.
Adapt this itinerary
I tried to allow you to cover a lot without making so crazy that you run from one place to the next. You can have time to enjoy each area.
However, I have also listed a few alternatives, if you are looking for a few other things.
And you can use my travel guide eBook, to create your own itinerary with my pre-selection of my favorite stops, GPS coordinates and practical maps:
Plan your dream road trip in Iceland
- 8 maps to plan your itinerary easily
- 100+ pre-selected locations
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 130+ original photos to get inspired
- GPS coordinates for easy navigation
Not for Winter
A quick note. This itinerary is not applicable for Winter, when days are shorter and conditions much more difficult.
If you are looking for Winter itineraries, including 10 days, head to this article.
Self-drive packages
If you don't want to choose each accommodation and book everything separately, you can book a self-drive package which includes car, accommodations and activities, such as:
- SUMMER - 10 days - Best of Ring Road + Snaefellsnes Peninsula - Check out program and latest prices
OPTION 1 - Classic Ring Road 10-day itinerary Iceland (self-drive)
Introduction
This classic route around Iceland will take you all along the Ring Road to the main highlights as well as the Golden Circle and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Summary and Map for Iceland Ring Road itinerary 10 days
The entire detailed itinerary with pictures is available below in this section, but let's start with an overview of the road trip:
- Day 1 - Golden Circle
- Day 2 - South Coast waterfalls
- Day 3 - South coast glaciers
- Day 4 - East Fjords
- Day 5 - Powerful Iceland (Dettifoss and Hverir)
- Day 6 - Lake Myvatn area
- Day 7 - Whales, Godafoss and Akureyri
- Day 8 - Drive to Snaefellsnes
- Day 9 - Snaefellsnes peninsula
- Day 10 - Reykjavik
I have tried to create an itinerary that include at least one of each of the wonders of Iceland: waterfalls, lava fields, fjords, volcanoes, towns, glaciers, black sand beaches...
You need to rent a car for this itinerary. Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com - it is one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
Below is a map of where you are heading around the Ring Road and the island:
10 day itinerary Iceland - road trip map
Day 1 - The famous Golden Circle
Driving time = 2h45 drive
Itinerary:
- Driving time from Keflavik airport = 1H15
- Stop 1 - Thingvellir National Park
Plan half a day to explore the National park. It is home to huge fissures created by the movements of the tectonic plates.
Consider doing the Main Fault walk from parking 1 and the Oxararfoss waterfall walk from Parking 2 (or combined with first walk).
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 50min drive
- Stop 2 - Haukadalur geothermal area (and geyser)
Admire the intense geothermal activity in this small area: mud pools, boiling water.. The Strokkur geyser erupting every 5 to 8 minutes.
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 10min
- Stop 3 - Gullfoss waterfall
Gullfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland.
The impressive falls are over 2 steps with an impressive surround sound.
Learn more in my article - Driving time to accommodation in Fludir = 30min
Where to stay?
Choose accommodation on the Golden Circle such as near Haukadalur - check out options
Or head to Fludir to be able to enjoy a relaxing time at the Secret Lagoon hot spring - Check out the best-rated accommodations
Tips
A unique activity to enjoy at Thingvellir is to snorkel in the crystal clear water inside one of the fissure - See availability and book your experience.
To pay in your own currency and avoid extra charges, prepay your entry to the Secret Lagoon.
Thingvellir National Park - Oxararfoss
Strokkur Geyser
Gullfoss
Day 2 - South Coast waterfalls
Driving time = 2h10
Itinerary:
- Driving time = 1h05
- Stop 1 - Seljalandsfoss
Discover the famous 60m high waterfall where you can walk behind.
A magical landscape. And walk to the nearby Gljufrabui falls hidden in the cliffs.
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 25min
- Stop 2 - Skogafoss
Another 60m high waterfall, but this one is wide. It looks like a shower curtain.
Take the time to get up-close at the bottom and to climb the 370 stairs to the upper viewing platform.
And if you started the day early and like walking, you can keep hiking along the river at the top. But don't forget to stop and turn around, as the trail can continue for days!
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 30min
- Stop 3 - Reynisfjara beach
Visit the famous black sand beach with its cave and basalt columns.
But be careful as the waves can suddenly get much higher!
Learn more in my article - Drive time to accommodation in Vik = 10min
Where to stay?
Vik is a really central town on the South Coast and a great place to stay - Check out the best-rated accommodations
Tips
Once in Vik, if you want a short stroll at the end of the day, head to the church on top of the hill for a view of town, beach and cliffs.
Seljalandsfoss
Skogafoss
Reynisfjara
Day 3 - South Coast glaciers
Driving time = 3h to 4h
Plan ahead and start the day early if you want to include the glacier hike at Skaftafell.
Itinerary:
- Driving time = 1h
- Stop 1 - Fjadrargljufur canyon
The feather Canyon is a great place to go for a walk and admire the tortuous structure created by the water. Waterfall at the end.
Beware, it can be closed for regeneration.
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 1h
- Stop 2 - Skaftafell National Park
If you want to hike, head the South side of the Skaftafell National Park. Otherwise, skip this stop.
Activities to consider: hike to Svartifoss or walk to the tongue of the glacier, or guided hike on the glacier
Book an unforgettable glacier hike - check details and availability
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 40min
- Stop 3 - Fjallsarlon
Fjallsarlon is the lesser known of the 2 glacial lagoons.
Water does not flow to the ocean but the glacier tongue is closer and the views more impressive in my opinion (with a clear weather).
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 15 minutes
- Stop 4 - Jokulsarlon
Jokulsarlon is the famous glacial lagoon.
Here you can see icebergs detach from the glacier and float towards the sea.
You could spend hours just watching the shapes and colors.
Or you can book a boat tour to get closer to the glacier - book here
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 0
- Stop 5 - Diamond beach
Walk or drive 2 minutes to the other side of the road, to the beach.
Admire the icebergs on the black sand beach. The sight is so unique!
Some icebergs are white, others are blue or have black stripes
Learn more in my article - (Drive time to accommodation = 1h)
Where to stay?
You can find a few hotels or guesthouses in the area of the lagoons, and these will allow you to get there for sunset, sunrise or the northern lights faster - See options
I stayed at the Hotel Smurlabjorg, 30 min drive East of Jokulsarlon. It was clean and practical - Check out photos and availability
Otherwise, 1 h from Jokulsarlon, Höfn is a great place to stay between the South Coast and the East Fjords - Check out the best-rated accommodations
Fjadrargljufur
Jokulsarlon
Diamond beach
Day 4 - East Fjords
Driving time = 3h20
Itinerary:
Today is mostly driving and taking in the views of the East Fjords.
Stop by the road on various occasions:
- Hvalnes lighthouse
- Fauskasandur beach
- Small town of Djupivogur
- Don't take the shortest road, head all the way to Faskrudsfjordur
Where to stay?
Egilsstadir is a great town with lots of accommodations. It makes the connection between the East fjords and North Iceland - Check out the best-rated accommodations.
Fauskasandur Beach
Day 5 - Power of Nature (Detiffoss and Hverir)
Driving time = 3h30 to 5h
Itinerary:
- Driving time = 1h15
- Stop 1 - Dettifoss and Selfoss
Head to the powerful waterfall of Dettifoss. And walk to the horseshoe series of waterfalls of Selfoss.
They can be observed from the East and the West banks.
Both are worth it.
Learn more in my article - And then head to Myvatn = 1h15
- Stop 2 - Hverir geothermal area (or any of the amazing places around Myvatn)
Explore the amazing fumeroles, mud pools and cracks of the geothermal area.
With the orange earth and the cracks, it feels like you landed on another planet.
But don't stay longer than 1 hour!
Learn more in my article - Drive to accommodation - 10 to 30min
Where to stay?
Choose your accommodation around Lake Myvatn for 3 nights - Check out the best-rated accommodations
I really enjoyed my stay by the water at the Dimmuborgir guesthouse - check out availability
Need to rent a car in Iceland?
My tips:
- Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com - one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
- If you plan on driving on F-roads in the Central Highlands, you need a good 4WD - otherwise, no.
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles (it is a popular island)
See my articles about renting a car in Iceland and driving there.
Day 6 - Lake Myvatn
Driving time = 1 to 2h
Explore the magnificent area of Lake Myvatn.
Take the time to relax in the middle of your big road trip.
There is much to do around Lake Myvatn - learn more.
Some of my favorite things to do include:
- The Myvatn Pseudocraters
Walk around a pond and admire the conical shapes that were not formed by traditional explosions. Some explanations are around the pond and more in the town of Reykjahild.
Learn more in my article - Dimmuborgir
Field with giant lava rock formations. This is a great place to look for elves and trolls.
Better early morning before the crowds
Learn more in my article - Hverfjall
Giant circular crater in excellent condition. It is possible to walk all around the rim!
Learn more in my article - Leirhnjukur
A lava field that it still fuming... should I really say more?
Learn more in my article - Myvatn Nature Baths, Krafla Viti Crater, Hofdi...
Where to stay?
Same accommodation around Lake Myvatn for 3 nights - Check out the best-rated accommodations
Tips
Pre-purchase your Myvatn Nature Baths entry ticket to avoid bank fees - see here
Myvatn Pseudocraters
Dimmuborgir
Day 7 - Northern territories
Driving time = 2h
Itinerary:
- Driving time = 40min
- Stop 1 - Husavik
Appreciate the small village and Book a Whale Tour - see options - Driving time = 40min
- Stop 2 - Godafoss
Admire the waterfall of the gods with its beautiful horseshoe shape
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 30
- Stop 3 - Akureyri
Visit the Capital of the North!
Where to stay?
Enjoy the vibrant town in the evening and spend the night in Akureyri - Check out the best-rated accommodations
Tips
You can also skip Husavik and do a whale watching tour in Akureyri, but sightings are not as good because of all the commercial boats - see tours
Godafoss
Day 8 - Drive to Snaefellsnes
Driving time = 5h
Lots of driving today.
Itinerary:
- Driving time =1h15
- Stop 1 - Glaumbaer
Visit the turf houses and learn more about how people used to live in those typical houses.
If you want less driving and more time at Snaefellsnes, you can skip this detour.
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 2h20
- Enjoy the views along the way
- Stop 2 - Grabrok craters
Just off the Ring Road, the well-preserved Grabrok craters offer nice walks up to the rim or through the lava field…
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 1h
- Stop 3 - Views around Road 56
The drive through the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is beautiful - Driving time = 30min
- Stop 4 - Kirkjufell
It is one of the most photographed mountains, with its mesmerizing shape and 2 waterfalls.
It is particularly great under the Iceland Northern Lights... (if visiting in Autumn).
Learn more in my article
Where to stay?
I recommend staying in Grundarfjordur near Kirkjufell - Check out the best-rated accommodations
Glaumbaer
Grabrokargigar
Kirkjufell
Day 9 - Snaefellsnes peninsula
Driving time = 3h40
Drive all around the Snaefellsnes peninsula.
There are a lot of attractions to discover. Learn more in my article about the Snaefellsnes peninsula
Below are some of my favorites:
- Saxholl Crater
A wonderful crater where you can hike to the top and enjoy wonderful views - Vatnshellir cave
A giant spiral staircase allow you to enter a lava cave
Book your visit - Londrangar lighthouse and lava field on the other side
You can walk a well-maintained path to platforms with nice views of the cliffs or walk towards the cliffs via the lava field (right from the parking facing the ocean). - Arnarstapi
Coastal area to explore with interesting lava formation such as the Gatklettur Arch, a bridge and some columns.
Plus, it offers wonderful views of the Arnarstpi mountain. - Budakirkja
The small black church surrounded by nature - ...
- Drive to Reykjavik = 2h20
Where to stay?
Londrangar
Arnarstapi
Day 10 - Reykjavik
Drive to Reykjavik: 1h10
Explore the vibrant capital city of Iceland.
Consider:
- Sculpture of Sun voyager at sunrise
- the Cathedral
- Perlan Museum
- Flyover Iceland fun experience
- Whales of Iceland museum
- and many historical or quirky museums
See all the entrance tickets you can pre-purchase in your own currency.
Whales of Iceland museum
OPTION 2 - South Iceland 10 day itinerary - road trip
Introduction
If you want less driving and more time exploring, you should focus on one half of Iceland.
The South is the most famous. And with 10 days you can dive in depth into the region.
Summary and 10-day Iceland itinerary Map
The entire detailed itinerary with pictures is available below in this section, but let's start with an overview of the road trip:
- Day 1 - Reykjanes Peninsula
- Day 2 - Golden Circle
- Day 3 - South Coast waterfalls
- Day 4 - Skaftafell National Park
- Day 5 - South coast glaciers
- Day 6 - Return South Coast
- Day 7 - Silver Circle
- Day 8 - Snaefellsnes peninsula
- Day 9 - Snaefellsnes peninsula
- Day 10 - Reykjavik or Day trip to Landmannalaugar
You need to rent a car for this itinerary. Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com - it is one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
Below is a map of where you are heading around South Iceland:
South Iceland road trip in 10 days - map
Day 1 - Reykjanes peninsula
Driving time = 2h05 to 2h40
Itinerary:
- Driving time from Keflavik airport = 25min
- Stop 1 - Gunnuhver
Gunnuhver, at the end of the Reykjanes peninsula, is a colorful geothermal area. - It displays large mud pools and fumaroles. The area is very active and may be closed because of it.
If also offers quite a contrast with the peaceful lighthouse further along the road. - Driving time = 40min
- Stop 2 - Seltun Geothermal Area
Fascinating multicolor geothermal area in Krysuvik. It is home to fumaroles and mud pools. But the main interests are the intense colors surrounding them: red, brown, silver, blue, yellow, white… - Driving time = 35min
- Stop 3 - Raufarholshellir Lava tubes
This is really a tube or tunnel (it is called the Lava tunnel) more than a cave. And it has 3 holes in its ceiling, which means you can enjoy natural light pouring in making it easier to see the lava and its colors.
Some photographers are really good at capturing this one, which is another reason why it has become one of the most popular.
It is 5000 years old.
Book your visit in your own currency - Drive time to accommodation = 25min to Selfoss or 1h to Fludir
Where to stay?
Plan 2 nights in the same accommodation either in Selfoss along Road 1 or in Fludir, to have the Secret lagoon to relax at the end of the day.
Check out the best-rated accommodations in Selfoss
Check out the best rated accommodations in Fludir
Tips
Gunnuhver
Seltun Geothermal Area
Raufarholshellir Lava tubes
Day 2 - The famous Golden Circle
Driving time = 2h45 drive
Itinerary:
- Driving time from Fludir = 30min
- Stop 1 - Gullfoss waterfall
Gullfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland.
The impressive falls are over 2 steps with an impressive surround sound.
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 10min
- Stop 2 - Haukadalur geothermal area (and geyser)
Admire the intense geothermal activity in this small area: mud pools, boiling water.. The Strokkur geyser erupting every 5 to 8 minutes.
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 25min
- Stop 3 - Laugarvatn
Lake with hot water and fumaroles right on the shore - spa next to it - Driving time = 30min
- Stop 4 - Thingvellir National Park
Plan half a day to explore the National park. It is home to huge fissures created by the movements of the tectonic plates.
Consider doing the Main Fault walk from parking 1 and the Oxararfoss waterfall walk from Parking 2 (or combined with first walk).
Learn more in my article
A really unique activity to enjoy at Thingvellir is to snorkel in the crystal clear water inside one of the fissure - See availability and book your experience. - Driving time = 40min drive
- Stop 5 - Kerid Crater
Beautiful crater lake displaying great contrasting colors with the red volcanic rock. It is believed not to have been formed by an explosion but when le magma chamber of the cone volcano emptied, and the top collapsed. - Driving time to accommodation in Fludir = 30min
Where to stay?
Same accommodation as last night.
Check out the best-rated accommodations in Selfoss
Check out the best rated accommodations in Fludir
Tips
Not far from Fludir, your can also visit a Tomato farm and see how they use the geothermal energy to grow them.
Gullfoss
Strokkur
Kerid
Day 3 - South Coast waterfalls
Driving time = 2h10
Itinerary:
- Driving time = 1h05
- Stop 1 - Seljalandsfoss
Discover the famous 60m high waterfall where you can walk behind.
A magical landscape. And walk to the nearby Gljufrabui falls hidden in the cliffs.
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 25min
- Stop 2 - Skogafoss
Another 60m high waterfalls, but this one is wide. It looks like a shower curtain.
Take the time to get up close at the bottom and to climb the 370 stairs to the upper viewing platform.
And if you started the day early and like walking, you can keep hiking along the river at the top. But don't forget to stop and turn around, as the trail can continue for days!
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 30min
- Stop 3 - Reynisfjara beach
Visit the famous black sand beach with its cave and basalt columns.
But be careful as the wave can suddenly get much higher!
Learn more in my article - Drive time to accommodation in Vik = 10min
- Stop 4 - Vik
Once in Vik, if you want a short stroll at the end of the day, head to the church on top of the hill for a view of town, beach and cliffs.
And you can also walk on the black sand beach on the town side of the headland.
Where to stay?
Vik is a really central town on the South Coast and a great place to stay - Check out the best-rated accommodations
Seljalandsfoss
Skogafoss
Reynisfjara
Day 4 - Wild South Iceland
Driving time = 2h30 to 3h
Itinerary:
- Driving time = 1h
- Stop 1 - Fjadrargljufur canyon
The feather Canyon is a great place to go for a walk and admire the tortuous structure created by the water. Waterfall at the end.
Beware, it can be closed for regeneration
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 1h
- Stop 2 - Skaftafell National Park
Discover the South side of the Skaftafell National Park.
Activities include: hike to Svartifoss, walk to the tongue of the glacier, or guided hike on the glacier
Book an unforgettable glacier hike - check details and availability
Learn more in my article - Drive towards the glacier lagoon of Fjallsarlon and Jokulsarlon
If you did not hike much and you still have time in the day, enjoy for a first time the glacier lagoon. Seeing them with different weather and light is worth it!
You can also go to Jokulsarlon for sunset
Where to stay?
You can find a few hotels or guesthouses in the area, and these will allow you to get there for sunset, sunrise or the northern lights faster - See options
I stayed at the Hotel Smurlabjorg, 30 min drive East of Jokulsarlon. It was clean and practical - Check out photos and availability
Fjadrargljufur
Svartifoss
Skaftafell glacier
Day 5 - Glaciers
Driving time = 1h30 to 2h
Itinerary:
- Driving time = 0 to 30min
- Stop 1 - Fjallsarlon
Fjallsarlon is the lesser known of the 2 glacial lagoon.
Water does not flow to the ocean but the glacier tongue is closer and the views more impressive in my opinion (with a clear weather).
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 15 minutes
- Stop 2 - Jokulsarlon
Jokulsarlon is the famous glacial lagoon.
Here you can see icebergs detach from the glacier and float towards the sea.
You could spend hours just watching the shapes and colors.
Or you can book a boat tour to get closer to the glacier - book here
Learn more in my article - Driving time = 0
- Stop 3 - Diamond beach
Walk or drive 2 minutes to the other side of the road, to the beach.
Admire the icebergs on the black sand beach. The sight is so unique!
Some icebergs are white, others are blue or have black stripes
Learn more in my article - Drive time to accommodation = 1h
Where to stay?
Stay at the same hotel around Jokulsarlon.
Or start the drive back towards VIk.
Tips
Come back to Diamond beach several times over 2 days, to see it with more or fewer icebergs.
Jokulsarlon
Diamond beach
Day 6 - Return driving day and ice cave
Driving time = 5h10
Itinerary:
- Driving back to Vik = 3h30
- To have a break: book the Katla Ice Cave at 2pm
Katla is the only ice cave that can be visited all year round.
Check out details and availability - Vik to Selfoss = 1h40
- If you want to make a full driving day, head to Borgarnes (1h30 driving extra, to save time tomorrow morning).
Where to stay?
Sleep in Selfoss - check out best rated accommodations
Day 7 - Silver Circle
Driving time = 3h45
Itinerary:
- Driving time = 2h
- Stop 1 - Deildartunguhver
This hot spring is the most powerful geothermal springs in Europe.
It is hard to imagine: It provides 180 l per second of hot water (47.5 gallons per second). The water is at 97°C (200°F) when it exits. - Driving time = 10min
- Stop 2 - Reykholt
A small historical village and an easy stop in the middle of the amazing natural attractions. - Driving time = 15min
- Stop 3 - Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
First you see Hraunfossar, also known as Lava Falls. It is 1km wide and clear water flows from every little crack in the lava. It is quite a unique sight!
Then you walk upstream and discover Barnafoss (also known as Children's Fall). It is not a waterfall in height but mostly the powerful River Hvita rushing in a narrow gorge in the lava. - Drive time = 20min
- Stop 4 - Vidgelmir lava tunnel
It is a well-preserved lava cave / lava tube. It is located in the Hallmundarhraun lava field. Today you can enjoy a guided visit on a well set up trail to discover the incredible lava formations.
Pre-book and pay in your own currency - or Stop 5 - Ice Tunnel
In Summer, it is not possible to visit natural ice caves, since ice is less stable.
But you can visit this man-made ice tunnel under a glacier.
Book your tour - Learn more in my article about the Silver Circle
- Drive time to accommodation = 1h
Where to stay?
Accommodation in Borgarnes - Check out the best-rated accommodations
Hraunfossar
Vidgelmir
Ice Tunnel
Day 8 & 9 - Snaefellsnes peninsula
Driving time = 4 drive
Drive all around the Snaefellsnes peninsula.
There are a lot of attractions to discover. Below are some of my favorites:
- Kirkjufell and its waterfalls
It is one of the most photographed mountains, with its mesmerizing shape and 2 waterfalls.
It is particularly great under the Iceland Northern Lights... (if visiting in Autumn).
Learn more in my article - Londrangar lighthouse and lava field on the other side
You can walk a well-maintained path to platforms with nice views of the cliffs or walk towards the cliffs via the lava field (right from the parking facing the ocean). - Budakirkja
The small black church surrounded by nature - Arnarstapi
Coastal area to explore with interesting lava formation such as the Gatklettur Arch, a bridge and some columns.
Plus, it offers wonderful views of the Arnarstpi mountain. - Saxholl Crater
A wonderful crater where you can hike to the top and enjoy wonderful views - Vatnshellir cave
Lava cave with impressive spiral staircase - Book your visit to be sure to have a spot - ...
- Learn more in my article about the Snaefellsnes peninsula
Where to stay?
I recommend staying in Grundarfjordur between day 8 and Day 9 - Check out the best-rated accommodations.
And drive to Reykjavik on Day 9 and sleep there - Check out best rated accommodations
Kirkjufell
Londrangar
Day 10 - Reykjavik or Landmannalaugar
Explore the vibrant capital city of Iceland.
Consider:
- Sculpture of Sun voyager at sunrise
- the Cathedral
- Perlan Museum
- Flyover Iceland fun experience
- Whales of Iceland museum
- and many historical or quirky museums
See all the entrance tickets you can pre-purchase in your own currency.
Check out the best-rated accommodations in Reykjavik.
More Nature alternative: Landmannalaugar
If you are not interested in cities. You can go to the Central Highlands.
Another "must-see" in Iceland is Landmannalaugar in the Central Highlands. It can only be reached by 4WD, but there are day tours getting you there from Reykjavik.
Therefore, if you prefer Nature to City, you can choose to book that for one of the 2 days - see options
Sun Voyager in Reykjavik
OPTION 3 - 10-day Iceland Tour of the North
Introduction
If you want less driving and more time exploring, you should focus on one half of Iceland.
The North is the more quiet. This is where you can really see the power of the Earth. And with 10 days you can dive in depth into the region.
Akureyri is only a 45min flight away from Reykjavik with Iceland Air.
Reykjavik to Akureyri is a 5h drive.
North Iceland itinerary 10-day Map
The entire detailed itinerary with pictures is available below in this section, but let's start with an overview of the road trip:
- Day 1 - Godafoss and Husavik
- Day 2 - Arctic road
- Day 3 - Seydisfjordur
- Day 4 - Lake and waterfall
- Day 5 - Powerful Iceland: Dettifoss and Hverir
- Day 6 - Myvatn
- Day7 - Myvatn
- Day 8 - Trollaskagi Peninsula
- Day 9 - Akureyri
- Day 10 - time to fly in at the beginning and fly out at the end
You need to rent a car for this itinerary. Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com - it is one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
Below is a map of where you are heading around South Iceland:
North Iceland itinerary in 10 days - map
Day 1 - Godafoss and Husavik
- Driving time = 1h10
- Visit the waterfall of the Gods on both banks - Learn more in my article
- And head to the charming Husavik for a whale watching tour - see options
- Night in Husavik - see best rated accommodations
Day 2 - Arctic road
- Driving time = around 4h30
- Go off the beaten path, taking the North road 85 to discover small fishing villages and fjords
- Night in Egilsstadir (2 nights) - see best rated accommodations
Day 3 - Fjords - Seydisfjordur and Mjoifjordur
- Driving time = 1h or 2h20
- Drive to the magnificent Seydisfjordur - appreciate the scenery along the drive, the waterfalls, and the colorful charming buildings in the seaside town.
- If you feel like a steep gravel road, head to the adjacent fjord Mjoifjordur - stunning scenery and waterfalls along the way
- 2nd Night in Egilsstadir - see best rated accommodations
Seydisfjordur
Day 4 - Lake, waterfall and drive
- Driving time = 3h15
- Drive South East around Lake Lagarflot
- Go to Hengifoss (second highest permanent fall) - hiking required (1h one way)
- Visit Skriduklaustur, the Museum for author Gunnar Gunnarsson
- Drive to Myvatn = 2h15
- Night in Myvatn (3 nights) - see best rated accommodations
I really enjoyed my stay by the water at the Dimmuborgir guesthouse - check out availability
Hengifoss
Day 5 - Power of the Earth: Dettifoss and Hverir
- Driving time = 2h30 to 4h depending on doing both banks or not
- Visit the Powerfull Dettifoss on both side of the canyon + Walk to Selfoss and maybe drive to Hafragilsfoss - Learn more in my article
- Stop at Hverir geothermal area - Explore the amazing fumeroles, mud pools and cracks of the geothermal area. Don't stay longer than 1 hour! - Learn more in my article
- 2nd Night in Myvatn - see best rated accommodations
Dettifoss
Hverir
Day 6 & 7 - Myvatn
- Driving time = depending on activity chose but everything is close by
- Enjoy 2 days in Myvatn there is plenty to do: Pseudocraters, Hverfjall crater rim hike, Dimmuborgir lava field, Leirhnjujur...
- End day 6 with a soak at the Myvatn Nature Baths - Pre-purchase your Myvatn Nature Baths entry ticket to avoid bank fees - see here
- On the second day drive to Akureyri = 1h
- Day 6 - 3rd Night in Myvatn - see best rated accommodations
- Day 7 - Night in Akureyri (2 or 3 Nights) - see best rated accommodations
Myvatn Pseudocraters
Dimmuborgir
Day 8 - Trollaskagi Peninsula
- Driving time = 3 to 4h
- Drive around the Trollaskagi peninsula where the mountains drop into the water. Do the coastal drive all the way or choose the inland road for amazing scenery - learn more in my article
- 2nd night Night in Akureyri - check out best rated accommodations
Trollakagi pensinula
Day 9 - Akureyri
- No driving
- Enjoy the Capital of the North!
- 3rd night Night in Akureyri - check out best rated accommodations
Day 10 - time to fly / drive in at the beginning and fly out at the end
Akureyri
OPTION 4 - 10 days of unique adventure
Introduction
If you are looking for active holidays, doing unforgettable unique experiences, here are 10 things to have a blast!
Itinerary
- Day 1 - Diving in Silfra fissure
- Day 2 - Glacier hiking
- Day 3 - Visiting an ice cave
- Day 4 - Snowmobile
- Day 5 - ATV quad on black sand
- Day 6 - Lagoon boat / kayak
- Day 7 - Hike near recent eruption and swim in Blue Lagoon
- Day 8 - Walk inside lava cave
- Day 9 - Landamannalaugar
- Day 10 - Reykjavik Fly Over, whale watching
For that itinerary, you will stay around South Iceland, mostly around Reykjavik and Vik.
You need to rent a car for this itinerary. Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com - it is one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
Day 1 - Diving in Silfra Fissure
Special activity
Your activity for the day is diving/snorkeling in the Silfra fissure in crystal clear water !
See details and availability
Other places to see around
You can drive around the Golden Circle:
- Thingvellir National Park,
- Haukadalur geothermal area
- Gullfoss waterfall
Where to stay
- Reykjavik - see best rated accommodations
- Or along the Golden Circle - check out options
- Or back along the Ring Road - Check out the best rated accommodations in Selfoss
Day 2 - Glacier Hiking
Special activity
Go to one of the glacier to hike on it.
Either Solheimjokull (before Vik, less driving) - see details and availability
Or in the famous Skaftafell National Park - see details and availability (or for more adventure, include some climbing - see details here)
Other places to see around
- Seljalandsfoss waterfall where you can walk behind
- Skogafoss waterfall
Where to stay
Vik is a perfect location to go on adventures - Check out the best rated accommodations (stay 3 nights)
Day 3 - Katla Ice Cave
Special activity
Hop on a Jeep and visit the only ice cave accessible all year around: the Katla Ice Cave
See details and availability
Other places to see around
- Reynisfjara Black Sand beach
Where to stay
2nd night in Vik - Check out the best rated accommodations
Day 4 - Snowmobile
Special activity
Have fun on a snowmobile adventure on the glacier Mýrdalsjökull
See details and availability
Other places to see around
Visit the Fjardargljufur canyon if it is not closed for regeneration
Where to stay
3rd night in Vik - Check out the best rated accommodations
Day 5 - ATV on black sand
Special activity
Enjoy a unique ATV tour as your take your quad on a 2h adventure on black sand.
See details and availability
Other places to see around
Drive towards the Glacier Lagoons
You can already head to Diamond beach or Jokulsarlon for sunset
Where to stay
Check out the best rated accommodations near Jokulsarlon (not many, book early)
Day 6 - Glacial Lagoon Kayaking
Special activity
Get up close and personal with a glacier by :
- Boat tour - See details and availability
- Kayaking - It is one of the most impressive experiences to have in Jokulsarlon - Book your kayak experience.
Other places to see around
- Fjallsarlon glacier lagoon
- Walking along Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon
- Admire the icebergs on Diamond Beach
- Plus, long drive to Reykjavik
Where to stay
Check out the best rated accommodations in Reykjavik (4 or 5 nights)
Day 7 - Hike recent eruption
Special activity
Hike to Geldingadalur, with the site of the 2021 volcanic eruption.
See tours and availability
Other places to see around
The Reykjanes peninsula has other geothermal locations: Gunnuhver and Seltun
Where to stay
Day 8 - Walk inside lava cave
Special activity
Iceland has several lava tubes and caves you can visit - see my article about the best ones
For example, Raufarholshellir is probably the most famous of all the caves because it is close to Reykjavik and day tours are offered just to the cave.
It is 5000 years old.
Book your visit to be sure to have a spot
Or book a day trip from Reykjavik
Where to stay
Vidgelmir lava cave
Day 9 - Landamannalaugar
Special activity
Discover the Central Highlands, with a day trip on a 4WD road only to reach the famous area of Landmannalaugar: colorful mountains, hot springs...
See tour options and availability
Where to stay
Day 10 - Reykjavik
Special activity
Have fun in Reykjavik.
Adventurous activities include:
- Reykjavik Fly Over - book in your own currency
- Whale watching - see options
- The Phallological Museum
Where to stay
Getting Ready for a 10 day trip around Iceland
Visa
First, check the Visa requirement for your nationality.
Iceland is part of the Schengen Visa Agreement. Therefore most Europeans don't need to apply for a Visa.
Check here to see if you need to get a visa.
Getting to Iceland
You should know that the international airport is not located in Reykjavik but in Keflavik.
The airport is a 45min drive from Reykjavik.
If your flight arrives late in the evening, and you are following my itinerary, sleep near Keflavik. Do not head into Reykjavik for just the night.
And if you want to start your trip from Akureyri, it is a 45min flight but from the Reykjavik domestic airport.
Iceland Air
Good to know
- Phone signal - no problem along Route 1
- Wifi - often available for free in gas stations.
All the accommodations where I stayed had wifi at least in the common areas. - Showers: hot water can smell like sulfur. Don't worry, it's just from the heating system. No danger.
- Don't forget to have insurance!
Get ready to drive
Driving in Iceland is relatively easy.
Towns are small, the roads are overall in good condition.
The main dangers are some farm animals in a few areas, wind gust and looking at the scenery...
Check out all my tips and my video about driving in Iceland.
What to pack
You need layers.
You can have 4 seasons in one day.
So have:
- Something for when it is warm
- a layer for when it gets chilly
- a layer for when it gets rainy
- a layer for when it is windy
And check out my detailed checklists both for Summer and Winter - HERE
And keep track of your own trip!
Frequently asked questions
Is 10 days in Iceland enough?
It depends on your level of expectations.
Yes it is enough to see the highlights and see a little bit of the amazing landscapes of Iceland: fjords, glaciers, black sand beach, hot springs, lava field, volcanoes...
No it is not enough, if you want to visit absolutely every region of the island. Some are difficult to access and would require to add much more time.
How long does it take to drive around Iceland?
It takes 16 to 17h to drive all around Iceland, without stopping at all and staying only on Route 1, i
And to drive around the Ring Road stopping at all the highlights, you need 7 days if you are not doing any detours.
If you want to enjoy the Ring Road, plus detours such as the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Golden Circle, then you need 10 days to 2 weeks.
Iceland Ring Road driving times
10 days in Iceland Cost
It is very difficult to give you an idea of what it would look like because it depends on a lot of factors (type of accommodation, type of cars, number of travelers...).
Just know that Iceland is quite expensive.
For a couple:
- an economic tour (shared bathrooms, no tours, cheap small car rental) - 3000 to 4500 USD, depending on month
- a comfort tour (private bathrooms, medium range accommodation, budget car) - around 3500 to 5500 USD, depending on month
- A quality tour (higher range accommodation, comfort 4WD car) - around 5500 to 8000 USD, depending on month
Best time to visit Iceland
May & September-beginning October
- My favorite time
- Advantages - 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 colder weather than Summer
Learn more on my article about the best time to visit Iceland.
June-August
- Advantages - 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)
Winter
- Advantages - 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
2 weeks Iceland itinerary (14 days)
In 2 weeks you can cover a lot more of Iceland. It is a very comfortable timeframe to cover the Ring Road and many detours.
Check out my suggestion for a 14 day Iceland itinerary.
Want to see more of the best Iceland has to offer?
- Tips to plan your Iceland road trip - read article
- 45 Most beautiful landscapes in Iceland in pictures - read article
- My suggested itineraries for 5 days in Iceland
- My suggested for 7 days in Iceland itineraries
- The best stops on the Ring Road - read article
- The best locations off the beaten path around Iceland - read article
- 21 Most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland - read article
- Top 5 places to see around Myvatn - read article
- 5 best Lava Fields in Iceland - read article
- The 10 best lava caves in Iceland - read article
- The 5 most beautiful black sand beaches in Iceland - read article
Planning a trip to Iceland?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
Plan your dream road trip in Iceland
- 8 maps to plan your itinerary easily
- 100+ pre-selected locations
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 130+ original photos to get inspired
- GPS coordinates for easy navigation
Want to see more of ICELAND?
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