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5 stop-by-stop Iceland Itineraries (with photos) – 4 days + 1 to 2 weeks

Last updated on June 21, 2020 By Claire, the Travel Planning Geek

Let's make the planning of your Iceland itinerary easier ! I have compiled for you 5 suggestions with stop-by-stop information and photos! Let me show you some of the most stunning landscapes you could see: if you have 4 days in Iceland, one week in Iceland, 10 days or 2 weeks in Iceland... Get ready to plan 🙂

7 days in Iceland itinerary one week
ITINERARIES
TIPS TO PLAN your Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
Where can I go in Iceland? - MAP for your Itinerary for Iceland
Iceland Itinerary 4 DAYS - Reykjavik Based
Best Iceland itinerary 7 DAYS - Wonders of the South
ONE WEEK in Iceland itinerary - Wonders of the North
Iceland itinerary 10 DAYS - Ring Road Tour + Snaefellsnes
2 WEEK itinerary around Iceland and more
Iceland Itinerary for Winter
Is my Iceland itinerary good?

Navigate back to the complete Iceland Travel Guide

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TIPS TO PLAN your Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

How to plan an Iceland itinerary? Let's start with some general tips to keep in mind:

TIP 1 - Driving Times

Always plan more time to go from point A to point B than what Google says. I can assure you that on any Iceland road trip you will want to stop all the time to admire the scenery.

TIP 2 - Daylight

Check out the daylight time you have available when you are traveling. Because of the latitude, the length of days vary greatly. Check out how long you have to see all the sites during the days (I give you a rough idea on my article about the best time to visit Iceland)

TIPS TO PLAN your Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

TIP 3 - Road Closures

Know that F-roads (difficult non paved tracks with river crossings most of the time) are only opened from mid-June to sometime in September. Dates change every year depending on the conditions. Most of those roads lead to the central highlands.

TIP 4 - Road Conditions

Know that in Winter, road conditions can change abruptly, with sometimes snowstorms. If you don't feel comfortable driving in those conditions, consider organized tours. Check out my guide to Iceland in Winter

TIP 5 - Accommodations

Some areas have sparse accommodations. If you don't book early or travel off peak season, you might not be able to find a place to stay right where you would like. Some extra kilometres might be required.

TIP 6 - Select the right type of car

Consider the roads you are going to take: only the paved ring road, some unpaved roads, F-roads... and select your car accordingly. I rented a small 4WD with Route 1 car rental and had a blast on gravel roads and easy F-road. Really felt like an adventurer. You can check out:

  • my complete guide on how to rent a car in Iceland
  • or rates and cars by Route 1 car rental
  • or compare prices with local rental companies

Make sure you select a company that has a good network around the island to help you if needed.

Itinerary of Iceland - choose the right car

TIP 7 - Self-drive package

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

Here are suggested packages of all lengths:

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

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

TIP 8 - Optimise your Iceland itinerary for the Northern Lights

Want to optimize you itinerary for the Northern Lights? No so easy, it is not predictable in advance as it depends on the cloud coverage and magnetic activity.
However, you can apply these tips to your itinerary to maximise your chances of seeing them:

  • pick accommodation that are isolated, this way you won't have interfering light sources
  • make sure to plan time in the North, as generally it is less cloudy which means more chances to see the auroras (but I can't guarantee it)

What do you need to pack for Iceland?

Easy, check out my detailed checklists bot for Summer and Winter - HERE


Where can I go in Iceland? - MAP for your Itinerary for Iceland

Iceland itinerary Map

Of course, you can go anywhere if you are willing to drive and want to pack your days.
But below is a simplified map just to get your oriented. It gives you an idea of what areas could be comfortable to visit within 3, 5 or 7 days.
Those timeline are base on a Reykjavik departure with a normal car (no 4WD required).

Driving times to consider to plan your best Iceland itinerary

To help you make a reasonable plan for your Iceland trip, Below are the overall driving times (without any stops) - 

  • Reykjavik to Grundarfjordur (Sanefellsnes Peninsula) - 2h30 drive
  • Reykjavik to Geysir (Golden Circle) - 1h30 drive
  • Reykjavik to Vik (South Coast) - 2h30 drive
  • Vik to Höfn - 3h15
  • Reykjavik to Akureyri - 5h
  • Reykjavik to Lake Myvatn - 6h
  • Höfn to Lake Myvatn - 5h30

Complete Iceland Maps

I have just noted the really big highlights on this map. But there are many other fascinating stops along the way.
You can find my complete planning maps with my selection of the best stops for each regions in my eBooks. Each stop includes GPS coordinates and practical information to make the most of your time:

Be overwhelmed by the beauty, not the planning!

ssmall Road trip Iceland Travel Guide cover

8 Maps, 100+ locations
110+ photos
LEARN MORE

Iceland Ring Road ebook cover S

2 Maps, 30 stops, 10 detours
70+ photos
LEARN MORE


Iceland Itinerary 4 DAYS - Reykjavik Based

What can you see in Iceland in 4 days?

Even with a short break in Iceland, you can see quite a lot.
There are many highlights within 2 to 3 hours of Reykjavik.
So you can either

  • stay in Reykjavik and do day trips from there - The 4 day Iceland itinerary below is Reykjavik-based, to avoid packing every day.
  • or you can go on an Iceland circuit for 4 days (by doing day 2 to 5  or Day 4 to 7 from Wonders of the South)

Don't have 4 days? What can you see in Iceland in 2 or 3 days?

If you have just 2 or 3 days to spend in Iceland, I would pick from the itinerary below either:

  •  the Snaefellsnes peninsula, Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon - for the variety 
  • or the South Coast with its waterfalls and Glacier Lagoon, for the Nature experience

DAY 1 - Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Head to the peninsula North West of Reykjavik. It is considered the "Iceland in miniature" with lots to see: glacier, volcanoes, fjords, waterfalls, lava stacks and fields...

Reykjavik to Kirkjufell - 2h30 drive ​

For this day, you can pick different locations on my Snaefellsnes Guide but here are 2 stops I think you should not miss:

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 1-2 - Kirkjufell

STOP 1 - Kirkjufell

Icon of the peninsula, the mountain has such an incredible shape with waterfalls at its foot. A place loved by photographers.

More info on the Kirkjufell Article

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 2-2 - Londrangar

STOP 2 - Londrangar

The cliffs and lava rock sea stack really deserve a stop and a walk around

If you do not want to drive, there are plenty of organized day tours you can join and just sit and relax:

  • I think small group tours are the best compromise between price and experience. Check out program and availabilities
  • or, if your budget allows for it, why not enjoy a private tour in Jeep to go anywhere you want. Check details and prices
  • or, if you want to go off the beaten track, consider a Super Jeep 4WD day tour of the peninsula. Check the program and prices

DAY 2 - Golden Circle

Next on your 4 day itinerary in Iceland, you can tour the famous Golden Circle with some of the most famous sites in the country.

Reykjavik to Gullfoss - 1h45 drive

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 1 - Thingvellir

STOP 1 - Thingvellir National Park

Discover the World Heritage site with the huge fissures created by the movements of the tectonic plates

More info on the Thingvellir article

At Thingvellir, this is where you can swim in the Silfra Fissure. Learn more and book

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 2 - geysir

STOP 2 - Haukadalur

The Haukadalur Geothermal area is famous for Geysir. But the geyser you will see erupt every 5 to 8 minutes is Strokkur.

More info the Haukadalur article

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 3Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 3 - Gullfoss

STOP 3 - Gullfoss

Gullfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. The impressive falls is over 2 steps with an impressive surround sound.

More info on the Gullfoss article

If you do not want to drive, there are plenty of organized day tours you can join and just sit and relax:

  • If you want to hit all the main stops on the route, consider this very well rated Day Trip on Guidetoiceland. Check Program and Prices
  • or, if your budget allows for it, why not enjoy a private tour​ to stop anywhere you want. Check details and price
  • Or, if you want an extraordinary experience, consider an Helicopter Tour of the Golden Circle! Check program and prices

DAY 3 - HIGHLIGHTS OF SOUTH ICELAND

Next you can discover the wonder of the South Coast of Iceland.

Quite a lot of driving today to discover some of the best locations in South Iceland. So you should not stop too much for landscapes and hit the main sites.

Reykjavik to Seljalandsfoss - 1h40

Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon - ​4h30

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 3-1 - Seljalandsfoss

STOP 1 - Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is a 60 meter drop, where you can walk behind revealing a magical landscapes

More info on the Seljalandsfoss article

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 3-2 - Skogafoss

STOP 2 - Skogafoss

Discover the 60 metre high curtain waterfall. It is quite impressive and you can walk to its foot or hike up for a view from above.

More info on the Skogafoss article

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 3-3 - Jokulsarlon

STOP 3 - Jokulsarlon

Here is a favorite for many visitors: the beautiful lagoon of Jokulsarlon where icebergs detach from the glacier and float near you all the way to the sea.

More info on the Jokulsarlon article

If you do not want to drive, there are plenty of organized day tours you can join and just sit and relax:

  • The road is easy so a minibus Tour is comfortable enough. However such tours do the first half of the coast only. Check program and price
  • If you want to get all the way to Jokulsarlon, you have to book a tour that specifically goes only there. It is a long trip but you won't get bored because the landscapes are amazing. Check program and price

DAY 4 - REYKJAVIK AND BLUE LAGOON

And you can end your Iceland break with a relaxing day enjoying the capital city and heading to one of the most famous spas in the world : The Blue Lagoon.

Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon - 40 minutes

  • Sun Voyager: ​Wake up early and admire sunrise
  • Relax in Reykjavik, walk through the city center
  • Blue lagoon: take the short drive and relax in the warm waters
Blue lagoon

If you do not want to drive, book a tour with transportation and entry tickets. It is quite practical with almost hourly departures. Check out options

Your Base in Reykjavik

For your accommodation in Reykjavik, here are my suggestions:

Reykjavik Accommodation - Iceland Accommodation B&B

Reykjavik Treasure B&B

  • WHERE I STAYED - I chose the Reykjavik Treasure B&B which was fantastic value for the price: really charming, great location and delicious breakfast - check out prices and book
  • HOSTEL - The Reykjavik City Hi Hostel has a good rating and is located inside Reykjavik - Check out prices and Book
  • DESIGN - If you like modern design, have a look at the 41- Townhouse hotel! - Check out prices and Book
  • APARTMENT - An apartment is great if you want to stay several days and cook in to save money. For example the Odinsvé Hotel Apartments - Check out prices and Book
  • FAMILY - Have a look at the Old Charm Reykavik Apartments. They have 2 and 3 bedrooms apartments and a decor with a lot of character Check availability and latest prices
  • LUXURY - Head downtown in large smart apartments at the Black Pearl - Check availability an Prices
  • or the Choose among the Best Rated Accommodations in Reykjavik

Best Iceland itinerary 7 DAYS - Wonders of the South

South Iceland has a lot to offer and can already give you a great overview of Iceland: Fjords, glacier, icebergs, geysers, geothermal area, waterfall... If you are limited in time, it is a great option to visit only the South. Here is a suggested Iceland Itinerary 7 days

Departure : Reykjavik - Return: Reykjavik

DAY 1 - Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Head to the peninsula North West of Reykjavik. It is considered the "Iceland in miniature" with lots to see: glacier, volcanoes, fjords, waterfalls, lava stacks and fields...

Reykjavik to Kirkjufell - 2h30 drive ​

For this day, you can pick different locations on my Snaefellsnes Guide but here are 2 stops I think you should not miss:

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 1-2 - Kirkjufell

STOP 1 - Kirkjufell

Icon of the peninsula, the mountain has such an incredible shape with waterfalls at its foot. A place loved by photographers.

More info on the Kirkjufell Article

Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 2-2 - Londrangar

STOP 2 - Londrangar

The cliffs and lava rock sea stack really deserve a stop and a walk around

For your accommodation on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula consider staying in the town of Grundarfjordur to be able to admire Kirkjufell at sunset and sunrise. Check out the accommodations in Grundarfjordur.

Or head to my Iceland Accommodations Article for more suggestions.

DAY 2 - Hraunfoss and the Golden Circle

Cross between the peninsula and the Golden Circle. On the way you can stop at the Hraunfossar waterfall and then cover the main sites of the famous Golden circle route.

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Hraunfoss

STOP 1 - Hraunfossar

A unique waterfall where thousands of small falls flow out of lava rocks. It creates more sound that one would imagine!

More info on the Hraunfoss Article

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Stop 1 - Thingvellir

STOP 2 - Thingvellir National Park

Discover the World Heritage site with the huge fissures created by the movements of the tectonic plates

More info on the Thingvellir article

At Thingvellir, this is where you can swim in the Silfra Fissure. Learn more and book

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Stop 2 - geysir

STOP 3 - Haukadalur

The Haukadalur Geothermal area is famous for Geysir. But the geyser you will see erupt every 5 to 8 minutes is Strokkur.

More info the Haukadalur article

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Stop 3Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 3 - Gullfoss

STOP 4 - Gullfoss

Gullfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. The impressive falls is over 2 steps with an impressive surround sound.

More info on the Gullfoss article

For accommodation on the Golden Circle, consider staying at the Geysir Cottage right next to the Geothermal area or head further on the road to the town of Selfoss. Check out the accommodations around Selfoss

DAY 3 - South Coast to Vik

Discover some of the landscapes of the West half of the South Coast up to Vik. 

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Seljalandsfoss

STOP 1 - Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is a 60 meter drop, where you can walk behind revealing a magical landscapes

More info on the Seljalandsfoss article

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Skogafoss

STOP 2 - Skogafoss

Discover the 60 metre high curtain waterfall. It is quite impressive and you can walk to its foot or hike up for a view from above.

More info on the Skogafoss article

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Fjadrargljufur

STOP 3 - Fjadragljufur

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.

More info on the Fjadraglujufur article

Stay in or aroun Vik. It is the hub of the South Coast - Compare accommodations in Vik

Or head to my Iceland Accommodations Article for more suggestions.

DAY 4 - Around Vik

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Vik

STOP 1 - Reynafjara Beach

Explore Vik, its black sand beaches around it, cliffs and sea Stacks

Check out my article about the Iceland black Sand beach

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Skaftafell

STOP 2 - Skaftafell and Svartifoss

Explore the Skaftafell National Park. You can for example, hike to the Svartifoss waterfall in its amphitheater of basalt columns.

More info on the Svartifoss article

Here you can also join a Glacier hike departing from the visitor center. Learn more and book

Stay in Vik a second night
This choice was made to allow for hiking time in Svartifoss. However if you don't plan on hiking, it would be better to switch Reynafjara beach and the Fjadrargljufur canyon to equilibrate the days (as suggested by a reader).

DAY 5 - East South Coast

Iceland Itinerary 7 Days - Jokulsarlon

STOP 3 - Jokulsarlon

Here is a favorite for many visitors: the beautiful lagoon of Jokulsarlon where icebergs detach from the glacier and float near you all the way to the sea.

More info on the Jokulsarlon article

Here you can enjoy a boat trip to the glacier - Learn more and book

Or if traveling in Winter, don't miss an excursion to the stunning crystal cave - Learn more and book

Iceland Itinerary 7 Days - Jokulsarlon beach

STOP 2 - Diamond Beach

Just across from the lagoon, walk to the black sand beach. Regularly iceberg wash off on it and you can walk around them.

More the info on the Jokulsarlon Beach Article

Iceland Itinerary 7 Days - Vestrahorn

STOP 3 - Vestrahorn

Drive a little bit on a rough road to discover the 'Batman mountain' with the black beach and small sand dunes.

Unpaved road.

More the info on the Vestrahorn Article

To stay on the East side of the South Coast, the biggest town is Hofn - Check out the accommodation options in Hofn

The Hotels the closest to Jokulsarlon are Hali Country Hotel and the Skyrhusid Guesthouse.

Or head to my Iceland Accommodations Article for more suggestions.

DAY 6 - Fjallsarlon and Blue Lagoon

Today discover another glacial lagoon (Fjallsarlon) and drive back all the way to the West Coast and enjoy a relaxing time in the hot milky waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Iceland Itinerary 7 Days - Fjallsarlon

STOP 1 - Fjallsarlon

Another glacial lagoon. You are closer to the glacier, but there are not always icebergs.

More the info on the Fjallsarlon article.

Iceland Itinerary 7 Days - Blue Lagoon

STOP 2 - Blue Lagoon

Typical Stop in Iceland. Go soak in the milky waters of the Lagoon.

More the info on the Blue Lagoon article (don't miss the tip about the hair).

Spend the night in Reykjavik (see all my accommodation suggestions at the beginning of the 4 day itinerary at the top of the article here) or Choose among the Best Rated Accommodations in Reykjavik

DAY 7 - Rest and Explore Reykjavik

Explore Reykjavik and try to catch the Sun Voyager sculpture at sunrise.

See at the beginning of the article, in the 4 day itinerary for Reykjavik accommodation suggestions.


And don't forget to purchase Travel insurance! I wish you a very smooth trip, but my policy is: better be prepared.
I personally use World Nomads. Get a quote online here.


ONE WEEK in Iceland itinerary - Wonders of the North

On the other hand, North Iceland is more the land of fire and will give you a great volcanic experience (volcanoes, pseudo-craters, lava pillars, steaming lava...) plus some stunning waterfalls. With less driving than in the South, Spending a week in North Iceland is like landing on another planet. Below is a suggested one week in Iceland Itinerary - wonders of the North:

Departure : Akureyri - Return: Akureyri​

To explore the area, there are 3 main places to stay (outside of isolated farms and guesthouses)

  • The capital of the North Akureyri - check out the accommodation options in Akureyri
  • Lake Myvatn is very central and close to most of the magnificent sites of the North - Check out the accommodations around Lake Myvatn  (I really enjoyed the Dimmuborgir Guesthouse)
  • If you prefer a small fishing town, head to Husavik - Check out the accommodations around Husavik

DAY 1 - Akureyri and Godafoss

one week in Iceland itinerary - Akureyri

STOP 1 - Akureyri

Explore the quirky town of Akureyri, the largest town in the North of Iceland

one week in Iceland itinerary - Godafoss

STOP 2 - Godafoss

On your way to lake Myvatn, Stop at Godafoss, the waterfall of the gods. Admire it from both side

More info on the Godafoss article

If you have a 4WD, reduce time in Akureyri and take a side trip to Aldeyjarfoss (F road for the last 5km)

You can stay right by Godafoss at the Fossholl Guesthouse to be able to enjoy it at sunset and under the stars. Check out prices and Book.

Or you can already continue to Myvatn to enjoy several days there. Check out the accommodations around Lake Myvatn

DAY 2 - Around Myvatn

For the next 3 days on your one week in Iceland Itinerary, you can enjoy the best Myvatn has to offer. Here are suggestions to equilibrate those days with walking and discoveries.

one week in Iceland itinerary - Skutustagigar

STOP 1 - Pseudo-craters

Go for a short walk to discover the stunning pseudo-craters of Skutustagigar
Best early morning

More info on the Pseudocraters article

one week in Iceland itinerary - Hofdi

STOP 2 - Hofdi Park

Explore the small park, and find the viewpoints to the lava pillars in the water

More info on the Hofdi article

one week in Iceland itinerary - Hverir

STOP 3 - Hverir

Explore the amazing fumeroles, mud pools and cracks of the geothermal area. It feels like you landed on another planet. But don't stay more than 1 hour!

More info on the Hverir Article

DAY 3 - Around Myvatn

Activities around Myvatn (walking day):

one week in Iceland itinerary - Dimmuborgir

STOP 1 - Dimmuborgir

Look for elves and trolls in this incredible lava fiel with huge nature structures
Better early morning before the crowds

More info on the Dimmuborgir Article

one week in Iceland itinerary - Hverfjall

STOP 2 - Hverfjall

Climb the huge circular volcanic crater and, if you feel like it, tour its rim. Discover the incredible landscape of Myvatn

More info on the Hverfjall Article

one week in Iceland itinerary - Grjotagja

STOP 3 - Grjotagja

Have a look at this isolated cave filled with burning water. And walk above to see the impressive fissure of the Earth crust!

More info on the Grjotagja Article

Closed at the moment

DAY 4 - Around Myvatn

one week in Iceland itinerary - Krafla Viti

STOP 1 - Krafla Viti

Another crater to tour. This one is filled with water and one a clear day, offers incredible views of colorful hills

More info on the Krafla Viti Article

one week in Iceland itinerary - Leirhnjukur

STOP 2 - Leirhnjukur

A lava field that it still fuming... should I really say more?

More info on the Leirhnjukur Article

one week in Iceland itinerary - Myvatn nature baths

STOP 3 - Myvatn Nature Baths

Relax in the warm waters of the Nature Baths. Similar to the blue lagoon, the baths of the North are less touristy and, I think, a more enjoyable experience.

More info on the Myvatn Nature Baths Article

DAY 5 - Dettifoss to Husavik

Next on our one week in Iceland we head to a canyon and its powerful waterfalls.

one week in Iceland itinerary - Dettifoss

STOP 1 - Dettifoss and Selfoss West Bank

Head to the West Bank of the powerful dettifoss waterfall and walk all the way to the mode delicate Selfoss

More info on the Dettifoss Article

one week in Iceland itinerary - Dettifoss East

STOP 2 - Dettifoss East Bank

Drive up on the other side of the canyon to see Dettifoss from the East Bank.

one week in Iceland itinerary - Hafragilsfoss

STOP 3 - Hafragilsfoss

Drive further North along the canyon and stop at the viewpoint of Hafragilsfoss

More info on the Hafragilsfoss Article

Drive to Husavik

DAY 6 - Husavik

Iceland Itinerary 7 Days - HUsavik
  • Explore Husavik and the Arctic coast
  • Hop on a boat tour to see wild whales - Learn more and book

DAY 7 - Trollaskagi Peninsula

On the last day of this one week in Iceland Itinerary, Drive back to Akureyri and finish your one week in Iceland by exploring the Trollaskagi Peninsula

Iceland Itinerary 7 Days - Trollaskagi

STOP 1 - Trollaskagi

North of Akureyri, explore the mountainous Trollaskagi Peninsula. Don't hesitate in summer to take the inland roads.

More info on the Trollaskagi article

Iceland Itinerary 7 Days - Glaumbaer

STOP 2 - Glaumbaer

Visit the turf houses and learn more about how people used to live in those typical houses.

More info on the Glaumbaer article

Iceland Itinerary 7 Days - Oxnadalur

STOP 3 - Oxnadalur

Drive through the majestic valleys and its interesting ridge


By the way, if you are wondering what to wear when traveling in Iceland (with that every-changing weather...), check out my Iceland Packing Guide


Iceland itinerary 10 DAYS - Ring Road Tour + Snaefellsnes

If you are limited to 10 days in Iceland but want to get a feel for the whole country, you can fast drive along Ring Road. It is possible but you will have to stop yourself from stopping everywhere and it will be hard! Here is a suggested Iceland itinerary 10 Days :

DAY 1 - Golden Circle

First on our 10 day itinerary in Iceland, you can tour the famous Golden Circle with some of the most famous sites in the country.

Reykjavik to Gullfoss - 1h45 drive

Iceland Itinerary 10 days - Stop 1 - Thingvellir

STOP 1 - Thingvellir National Park

Discover the World Heritage site with the huge fissures created by the movements of the tectonic plates

More info on the Thingvellir article

At Thingvellir, this is where you can swim in the Silfra Fissure. Learn more and book

Iceland Itinerary 10 days - Stop 2 - geysir

STOP 2 - Haukadalur

The Haukadalur Geothermal area is famous for Geysir. But the geyser you will see erupt every 5 to 8 minutes is Strokkur.

More info the Haukadalur article

Iceland Itinerary 10 days - Stop 3Iceland Itinerary 4 days - Stop 3 - Gullfoss

STOP 3 - Gullfoss

Gullfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. The impressive falls is over 2 steps with an impressive surround sound.

More info on the Gullfoss article

For accommodation on the Golden Circle, consider staying at the Geysir Cottage right next to the Geothermal area or start driving towards the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

DAY 2 - Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Head to the "Iceland in miniature" with lots to see: glacier, volcanoes, fjords, waterfalls, lava stacks and fields...

Reykjavik to Kirkjufell - 2h30 drive

For this day, you can pick different locations on my Snaefellsnes Guide but here are 2 stops I think you should not miss:

Iceland Itinerary 10 days - Stop 1-2 - Kirkjufell

STOP 1 - Kirkjufell

Icon of the peninsula, the mountain has such an incredible shape with waterfalls at its foot. A place loved by photographers.

More info on the Kirkjufell Article

Iceland Itinerary 10 days - Stop 2-2 - Londrangar

STOP 2 - Londrangar

The cliffs and lava rock sea stack really deserve a stop and a walk around

For your accommodation on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula consider staying in the town of Grundarfjordur to be able to admire Kirkjufell at sunset and sunrise. Check out the accommodations in Grundarfjordur.

Or head to my Iceland Accommodations Article for more suggestions.

DAY 3 - Drive North to Akureyri

On the 3rd day of your Iceland itinerary 10 days, Drive all the Way to the North and Akureyri:

Iceland Itinerary 10 Days - Glaumbaer

STOP 1 - Glaumbaer

Visit the turf houses and learn more about how people used to live in those typical houses.

More info on the Glaumbaer article

Iceland itinerary 10 days - Akureyri

STOP 2 - Akureyri

Explore the quirky town of Akureyri, the largest town in the North of Iceland

If you prefer nature, skip it and head to Godafoss and Myvatn to have more time around Myvatn

Spend the night in Akureyri -  check out the accommodation options in Akureyri

DAY 4 - Godafoss and Myvatn

Iceland itinerary 10 days - Godafoss

STOP 1 - Godafoss

On your way to lake Myvatn, Stop at Godafoss, the waterfall of the gods. Admire it from both side

More info on the Godafoss article

If you have a 4WD, reduce time in Akureyri and take a side trip to Aldeyjarfoss (F road for the last 5km)

10 days in Iceland itinerary - Dimmuborgir

STOP 2 - Dimmuborgir

Look for elves and trolls in this incredible lava fiel with huge nature structures
Better early morning before the crowds

More info on the Dimmuborgir Article

10 days Icelandic itinerary - Hverir

STOP 3 - Hverir

Explore the amazing fumeroles, mud pools and cracks of the geothermal area. It feels like you landed on another planet. But don't stay more than 1 hour!

More info on the Hverir Article

10 days in Iceland itinerary - Myvatn nature baths

STOP 4 - Myvatn Nature Baths

Relax in the warm waters of the Nature Baths. Similar to the blue lagoon, the baths of the North are less touristy and, I think, a more enjoyable experience.

More info on the Myvatn Nature Baths Article

Spend the night around Lake Myvatn. Check out the accommodations around Lake Myvatn  (I really enjoyed the Dimmuborgir Guesthouse)

DAY 5 - Myvatn and Dettifoss

10 days Iceland itinerary - Skutustagigar

STOP 1 - Pseudo-craters

Go for a short walk to discover the stunning pseudo-craters of Skutustagigar
Best early morning

More info on the Pseudocraters article

10 days Iceland itinerary - Leirhnjukur

STOP 2 - Leirhnjukur

A lava field that it still fuming... should I really say more?

More info on the Leirhnjukur Article

Iceland Itinerary 10 Days - Dettifoss

STOP 3 - Dettifoss and Selfoss West Bank

Head to either the West or East bank of Dettifoss and enjoy the power of this waterfall

More info on the Dettifoss Article

Drive to the East fjords. Sleep around Egilstadir or in the East fjords - check out accommodations around Egilstadir

DAY 6 - East Fjords

10 days around Iceland will then take you South with detours to admire the East Fjords

10 days around Iceland - east fjords

Mostly views from the road

10 days around Iceland - Hengifoss east fjords

Hikers might enjoy the hike to the Hengifoss 

Spend the night in the East Fjords (check out options here) or in the town of Höfn.

DAY 7 - Jokulsarlon & South East Coast

ON our Icelandic Itinerary over 10 days, we now head to the South Coast to finish with the best of the ice in Iceland 🙂

Iceland Itinerary 10 Days - Vestrahorn

STOP 1 - Vestrahorn

Drive a little bit on a rough road to discover the 'Batman mountain' with the black beach and small sand dunes.

Unpaved road.

More the info on the Vestrahorn Article

Iceland Itinerary 10 days - Stop 3-3 - Jokulsarlon

STOP 2 - Jokulsarlon

Here is a favorite for many visitors: the beautiful lagoon of Jokulsarlon where icebergs detach from the glacier and float near you all the way to the sea.

More info on the Jokulsarlon article

Here you can enjoy a boat trip to the glacier - Learn more and book

Or if traveling in Winter, don't miss an excursion to the stunning crystal cave - Learn more and book

Iceland Itinerary 10 Days - Jokulsarlon beach

STOP 3 - Diamond Beach

Just across from the lagoon, walk to the black sand beach. Regularly iceberg wash off on it and you can walk around them.

More the info on the Jokulsarlon Beach Article

Sleep between Höfn and Vik - check out accommodation options in that area

DAY 8 - Around Vik

Opposite of Day 4 of the Iceland Itinerary 7 days South Wonders

Iceland Itinerary 10 days - Skaftafell

STOP 1 - Skaftafell and Svartifoss

Explore the Skaftafell National Park. You can for example, hike to the Svartifoss waterfall in its amphitheater of basalt columns.

More info on the Svartifoss article

Here you can also join a Glacier hike departing from the visitor center. Learn more and book

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Vik

STOP 2 - Reynafjara Beach

Explore Vik, its black sand beaches around it, cliffs and sea Stacks

Check out my article about the Iceland black Sand beach

Spend the night in Vik - Compare accommodations in Vik

DAY 9 - South Coast & Blue Lagoon

Before heading back to Reykjavik, admire the amazing Skogafoss and Seljalandfoss waterfalls of Day 3 in the South One week Itinerary Iceland. And Finish with a visit to the Blue lagoon for some relaxation.

Iceland Itinerary 10 days - Skogafoss

STOP 1 - Skogafoss

Discover the 60 metre high curtain waterfall. It is quite impressive and you can walk to its foot or hike up for a view from above.

More info on the Skogafoss article

Iceland Itinerary 7 days - Seljalandsfoss

STOP 2 - Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is a 60 meter drop, where you can walk behind revealing a magical landscapes

More info on the Seljalandsfoss article

Iceland Itinerary 10 Days - Blue Lagoon

STOP 3 - Blue Lagoon

Typical Stop in Iceland. Go soak in the milky waters of the Lagoon.

More the info on the Blue Lagoon article (don't miss the tip about the hair).

Spend the night in Reykjavik (see all my accommodation suggestions at the beginning of the 4 day itinerary at the top of the article here) or Choose among the Best Rated Accommodations in Reykjavik

DAY 10 - Reykjavik

Enjoy Reykjavik: the Cathedral, the Sun Voyager Sculpture, the art scene...


2 WEEK itinerary around Iceland and more

If you are lucky enough to have 2 weeks in Iceland, here are some itinerary options:

2 week big loop self drive itinerary Iceland
  • ​OPTION 1 - 1 WEEK North Wonders + 1 WEEK South wonders
  • OPTION 2 - 10 days itinerary + 2 day Western Fjords + 1 more day in Myvatn
  • OPTION 3 - (if you have a 4 WD) - 10 day Itinerary Iceland + 1 Day Thormosk + 1 Day F208 to Landmannalaugar

If you want to create your own itinerary and get more info to plan your trip, check out the 2 ebooks I created with practical maps (they also include GPS coordinates to help navigate):

Be overwhelmed by the beauty, not the planning!

ssmall Road trip Iceland Travel Guide cover

8 Maps, 100+ locations
110+ photos
LEARN MORE

Iceland Ring Road ebook cover S

2 Maps, 30 stops, 10 detours
70+ photos
LEARN MORE


Iceland Itinerary for Winter

If you are staying around the Ring Road, generally there is no issues. Except for a huge storm, the road is cleared quickly and a lot of the stops are close to the main road.

Generally the Golden Circle and The Snaefellsnes peninsula are also cleared quickly but conditions may get more difficult.

Learn more on my article above Iceland in Winter.


Is my Iceland itinerary good?

You can post you plan on online forum, but you will get a lot of different opinions and probably people adding locations because you just 'have to see this!'.
No so helpful...

Check the following points and you should be good to go:

  • Have I plan less than 4h30 driving per day in Summer and 3h in Winter?
  • Am I clear on the Top 5 locations I don't want to miss and flexible about the others? (depending on weather conditions)
  • Are there available accommodations that fit my itinerary? (If you are late to the planning, the lack of accommodations may influence your itinerary)
  • Have I planned only destination where I am the capacity to drive? (e.g. don't go to the central highlands if you can't do river crossing with 4WD...)
  • Are you excited and stressed by the itinerary? This might be an indication you have to remove locations...


And then you are good to go! I wish you a wonderful Icelandic trip!


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DRIVING IN ICELAND

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ICELAND ACCOMMODATIONS

Tourism Iceland Travel Guide

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Szymon | Znajkraj says

    August 22, 2015 at 2:03 PM

    Hello Claire! 🙂

    Thanks for a lot of useful informations on your site. We have just came back from Iceland, from two weeks cycling trip from Jokulsarlon to Reykjavik. What a gorgeous country it is! 🙂

    And one of the places, that made an extremely impression on us, was Frostastaðavatn lake with lava tongue on it. Imagine the fun we had, when we finally managed to get there through highlands. What a view! 🙂

    Travel safe! 🙂

    Reply
    • Claire Robinson says

      August 23, 2015 at 12:09 PM

      Hi Szymon
      I am glad you found the information useful. Cycling – WOW! Must have been amazing.
      Thanks for your comment.

      Reply
  2. Dhaka Tour says

    November 26, 2016 at 5:10 AM

    Hey, dear, thanks for this beautiful and interesting article! Actually, we are planning to visit Iceland. So we will try to follow your instruction.

    Reply
  3. Michael says

    June 13, 2017 at 7:10 PM

    Ah, Iceland is on my bucket list but I haven’t been able to get there yet. I think it would be like a photographers dream place. Not sure my wife would like it with all the photos I would be taking though haha. Great Itinerary advice, look forward to using it some day!

    Reply
    • Claire Robinson says

      June 14, 2017 at 9:16 AM

      Thanks Michael. Yes it is hard to stop taking pictures in such a beautiful place!

      Reply
  4. Jenny says

    November 14, 2017 at 4:28 PM

    We are traveling to Iceland in the middle of December. I’ve been looking at your blog and it looks very useful in planning our trip. I have gotten mixed reviews about renting a car versus tours. Would we have any problems visiting the places on your 4 day itinerary? I know to keep track of weather alerts and to heed all warnings. But as long as weather permits and doesn’t come a big snow storm what should we expect to encounter

    Reply
    • Claire Robinson says

      November 14, 2017 at 9:22 PM

      Hi Jenny
      Yes reviews can be contradictory because people will have very different experience depending on the weather they get…
      And it depends on your level of confidence in driving under Winter conditions.
      Weather is less and less predictable nowadays so I can’t really tell you what you can expect.
      That being said, the locations on my 4 day itinerary are touristy so roads are cleared frequently and well maintained. Unless you get a big snowstorm, it should be ok.
      I wish you a wonderful trip!

      Reply
  5. Jesse says

    February 26, 2018 at 3:58 AM

    Hi Claire,

    I stumbled on your website while doing some research for my upcoming trip to Iceland in June 2018. What a gold mine! I’m eating it up!

    I’m very excited to get to take a mother-daughter trip with my mother for her 70th birthday! We have 9 full days to travel. We were thinking your 7-day wonders of the south trip would be perfect to go at a comfortable pace for the two of us.

    Can you suggest any places on your 7-day itinerary where one of the days could be stretched over 2 day? Or is there anywhere in the Westfjords that we add for an overnight?

    Thank you!

    Jesse,
    Montreal, Canada

    Reply
    • Claire, the Travel Planning Geek says

      February 26, 2018 at 8:03 AM

      Hi Jesse
      I am glad you are enjoying my guides.

      I think you definitively should stretch the Snaefellsnes peninsula for 1 day. There is much to see there and you can visit at a good pace.
      Then maybe you can take one day from after Jokulsarlon to drive up a little in the Eastfjords. It is an easy drive and the landscapes are a bit different.

      I wish you a wonderful trip!
      Claire

      Reply
  6. Choya says

    April 10, 2018 at 10:42 PM

    We are planning a 10 day trip to Iceland July 2018. I’m a western Icelander from Spanish Fork, Utah. I’m looking forward to being in places that I have only heard about from my grandfather. Do you have any information about the Westman Islands and the area around Vik? Also we were wondering about whale watching? Is that better up North or somewhere else on the island? We are planning on traveling the whole island.

    Thanks for your time,
    Choya

    Reply
  7. Robert says

    May 20, 2018 at 7:34 PM

    Hi – thank you so much for the guide.

    I do have a question about your suggested 4-day Iceland itinerary.

    We arrive July 12th in the evening and pick up a rental car at 8:30 pm. So we will stay that night in Reykjavik.

    We return the rental car on the 16th at 3:30 pm, so the last morning can also be in Reykjavik, just as your guide suggests.

    That leaves us with three full days – the 13th, 14th, and 15th – which also fits into your suggestion.

    I like your ideas on where to drive to on those days. What I don’t understand is what nights we want the hotel in Reykjavik, vs what nights, if any, we should get a hotel in one of the remote locations. Can you please suggest hotel locations for each day of the 4-day itinerary?

    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Claire, the Travel Planning Geek says

      May 20, 2018 at 8:21 PM

      Hi Robert
      Thanks. Glad you are enjoying it.
      The 4 day itinerary is Reykjavik-based (contrary to the others), which means you drive back to Reykjavik every day. It is for those who don’t like changing hotels every night 🙂
      I wish you wonderful travels!

      Reply
      • Robert says

        May 20, 2018 at 8:39 PM

        Hi. Thanks for writing. Certainly changing hotels every night is a pain, so that is a nice feature – depending on what sites are given up.

        Would you say that the compromise is that really cool sites are missed due to not driving out as far? Or do you think of the experience about as good as any introduction to Iceland one can get in 4 days?

        If you were going to create a 4-day itinerary that did involve multiple hotels, how much cooler would the sites be? Or would you just save on driving? Not sure how long these drives are.

        Reply
        • Claire, the Travel Planning Geek says

          May 21, 2018 at 5:20 PM

          For 4 days, going in the various directions, coming back to Reykjavik does not make you miss much.
          The other option would be to spend the night at Day 3 around Höfn at the end of the South Coast and to come back on Day 4 finishing at the Blue Lagoon. In this alternative you see less of Reykjavik, but you have more time to explore the various stops along the South Coast (and it reduces driving time a lot). Depends if you want to explore the capital city or prefer Nature.

          Reply
          • Robert says

            May 21, 2018 at 6:14 PM

            Claire,

            That is super helpful. Thank you. Can you please give us a sense of the differences in driving times? One of my friends said some of the sites are 8 hours from Reykjavik. I really don’t know if I did the return every day vs the stay at a remote hotel the difference in driving time.

            Reply
            • Claire, the Travel Planning Geek says

              May 21, 2018 at 6:17 PM

              You have driving times indicated in the itinerary.

              Reply
              • Robert says

                May 21, 2018 at 6:40 PM

                I see. Thanks.

                So Jökulsárlón is the farthest out. If we skip that we can save about 8 hours of driving (about an extra 4 out and 4 back including stops) and also save having to swap hotels. Seems like something to skip for efficiency purposes on a shorter trip. I just don’t know how the total experience of an Iceland trip would change with and without Jökulsárlón. I am all about outdoors but will be with wife and three kids as young as age 8. I am wondering if it really makes sense to get past Seljalandsfoss with kids on a 4-day trip? I realize it depends on the people. My wife is trying to swap me to not try to pack too much in.

                Reply
  8. Lloyd Rizare says

    June 22, 2019 at 5:04 PM

    Hi Claire,

    Wow! Thank you for this post such a helpful blog. We are planning to on August and we arrived at 3pm in airport and have 6 days to explore Iceland. What is the best itinerary for this length? I made my own draft itinerary but still needs to work on it. Do you think this would work? I need your opinion on this and I will be self driving.
    Day 1- Arrival (3pm) Blue Lagoon, stay in Reykjavik
    Day 2- Day tour to Snaefellsnes Peninsula
    Day 3- Golden Circle then sleep in Vik
    Day 4- Vik
    Day 5- Hofn
    Day 6-Hofn then back to Reykjavik
    Day 7- Reykjavik (City tour)
    Day 8- Departure (7:40am)

    Appreciate your reply to this. God bless

    Reply
    • Claire, the Travel Planning Geek says

      June 22, 2019 at 7:22 PM

      Hi Llyod
      Looks generally good – to balance better, on day 3 I would sleep between the town of Selfoss and the waterfall of Seljalandsfoss rather than Vik. And I would cover Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss and Vik’s area on Day 4, sleeping in Vik.
      Have a great trip!

      Reply
  9. Nidhi Shah says

    January 15, 2020 at 2:25 PM

    This all information are very helpful, thanks for sharing it. Really appreciate your efforts.

    Reply
    • Claire, the Travel Planning Geek says

      January 15, 2020 at 3:06 PM

      Thanks!
      I appreciate that you took the time to leave a message. I am glad you are finding my website helpful.
      I wish you wonderful travels!
      Claire

      Reply

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