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The Ultimate 10 Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the winter, though?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik and enjoy the city.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church and climb the tower.

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

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

Consider visiting a museum.

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

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

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

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

… or go for a soak in Sky Lagoon.

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

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

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

Book tickets to the Sky Lagoon today!

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

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

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

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

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

Amount of driving as written.

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

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

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

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

Snorkel between two continents.

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

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

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

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

Book your Silfra snorkeling experience today!

Check out more of Thingvellir National Park.

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

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

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

Marvel at the Geysir geothermal area (Haukadalur Valley).

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

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

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

Admire the power of Gullfoss.

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

“Gullfoss” is translated to “Golden Waterfall”.

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

Where to Stay on Day 2 of Your Iceland Road Trip

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

We loved our stay at Hotel Vík í Mýrdal !

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

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

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

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

About 4.5 hours (300 kilometers).

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

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

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

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

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

Explore the charming town of Vik.

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

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

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

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

Stroll along Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

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

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

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

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

Walk behind Seljalandsfoss.

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

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

Visiting Seljalandsfoss exceeded our high expectations!

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

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

… and check out Gljufrafoss.

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

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

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

Visit the iconic Skogafoss.

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

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

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

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

Optional: Explore the abandoned DC3 Plane Wreck.

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

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

Alternatively, you could book an ATV tour like this !

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

Where to Stay on Day 3 of Your Iceland Road Trip

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

We loved and recommend staying at Hotel Vík í Mýrdal .

About 1 hour, 45 minutes (125 kilometers).

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

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

Peer into Fjadrargljufur Canyon (Fjaðrárgljúfur).

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

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

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

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

Optional: Take a short hike to Svartifoss.

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

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

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

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

Hike on the largest glacier in Europe.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your glacier hike in Iceland today!

Where to Stay on Day 4 of Your Iceland Road Trip

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

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

Check rates & book your stay at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon!

About 2.5 hours (180 kilometers).

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

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

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

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

Optional: Visit Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Soak in otherworldly views at Diamond Beach.

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

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

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

Hang out with puffins Borgarfjörður Eystri.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay on Day 5 of Your Iceland Road Trip

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

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

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

Check rates & book your stay in Seydisfjordur!

About 6.5 hours (450 kilometers).

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

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

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

Enjoy the morning in Seydisfjordur.

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

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

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

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

Explore Stuðlagil Canyon.

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

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

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

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

We recommend following these directions .

Stare in awe at Dettifoss and Selfoss.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stroll through the Namafjall Geothermal Area.

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

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

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

Where to Stay on Day 6 of Your Iceland Road Trip

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

Check rates & book your stay at Hótel Laxá!

About 4 hours, 45 minutes (315 kilometers).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your tickets for the Myvatn Nature Baths today!

Admire the power of Godafoss.

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

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

Take a whale watching tour from Akureyri.

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

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

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

Book your whale watching excursion in Akureyri today!

Where to Stay on Day 7 of Your Iceland Road Trip

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

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

Some options also come with kitchens.

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

About 1 hour, 30 minutes (110 kilometers).

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

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

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

We can heartily recommend the brunch at Cafe Berlin !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check hours and entrance information here .

Drive to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

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

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

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

Where to Stay on Day 8 of Your Iceland Road Trip

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

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

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

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

About 5 hours, 45 minutes (440 kilometers).

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

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

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

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

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

Snap photos at the Iceland icons of Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stroll along Djúpalónssandur.

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

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

Pay a visit to Arnarstapi and the Arnarstapi Cliffs.

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

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

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

Plus, you may be in Hellnar soon enough anyway…

Where to Stay on Day 9 of Your Iceland Road Trip

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

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

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

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

Check rates & book your stay at Fosshotel Hellnar!

About 2 hours (95 kilometers).

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

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

Relax at the Blue Lagoon.

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

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

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

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

The Blue Lagoon is known to sell out!

Book your tickets to the Blue Lagoon today!

Where to Stay on Day 10 of Your Iceland Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your Husavik whale watching tour today!

The Highlands

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

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

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

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

Fagradalsfjall Volcano

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

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

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

Book your visit to the Fagradalsfjall Volcano today!

Glymur Waterfall

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

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

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

Aldeyjarfoss

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

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

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

Less is more.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Keep an eye on the clock.

This is essential when road tripping Iceland in the summer.

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

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

We snapped it at 8:37 PM.

Be flexible with what you see.

Weather not cooperating? Tours sold out?

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

Don’t worry too much!

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

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

Bring a sleep mask.

… And make it a good one!

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

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

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

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

Keep an eye on the weather.

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

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

Don’t plan on getting anywhere fast.

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

It does result in a very memorable one, though.

How’s the driving?

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

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

You will absolutely want a GPS for navigation, though.

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

As soon as you possibly can!

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

First, it’s extremely popular!

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

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

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

Is driving the Ring Road possible during winter in Iceland?

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

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

Should you drive the Iceland Ring Road clockwise or counterclockwise?

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

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

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

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

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

Either way works!

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

No, you don’t!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We use and recommend  Safety Wing  for trips to Iceland.

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

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

We used Lonely Planet Iceland during our trip.

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

We use these and have never had any issues.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I used these pants , and Jeremy wore these .

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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

Thank you very much. I like your informative blog.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Iceland: Clockwise or Counterclockwise?

Posted Feb 27, 2020

Driving in Iceland

• #Roads in Iceland

We have a road encircling the whole country, and you wonder: is the best way clockwise or counterclockwise? Let's find out what we should consider before making that decision.

Iceland is an extremely popular destination for road trips. In spite of its fairly undeveloped highway system, it’s easy to navigate around the country. This is thanks to  Route 1, the Iceland ring road  which runs parallel to the coastline all the way around. So, the best way to explore all the land of fire and ice has to offer is to drive the ring road, with occasional detours. But which way, you ask? Clockwise or counterclockwise? Let’s take a look.

Is it Best to Go Around Iceland Clockwise or Counter Clockwise?

The Ring Road in Iceland can be driven either way. Though it circles back, a counterclockwise route is often favored. But, why choose between one direction or the other?

Well, the first consideration regarding which direction to travel in is the weather. ‘Follow the Sun’ is the best piece of advice. Check the forecast and if the weather looks better in the north on the first few days of your planned trip than in the south, go clockwise.

Iceland is known for its bad weather, and in the spring, autumn and winter, sandstorms, snowstorms, and strong winds are common. Things are a little more relaxed in the summer, but it has been known to rain a lot even then. So, follow the Sun. You can find detailed forecasts on the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s website .

The second consideration is what you want to start and end your trip doing the Westfjords, in the northwest of Iceland, it is a peaceful place to visit. They’re not actually covered by the ring road, so you’ll have to detour a little. Making the Westfjords one of your last stops before traveling back down to Reykjavík would be a great end to an adventure.

It would also mean you could start your trip southwest of the capital, at the Snæfellsnes peninsula, where you could drop in at the Blue Lagoon and hike through Snæfellsjökull National Park . After that, you could join the ring road and make your way counterclockwise around the island, ending up in the Westfjords towards the end.

There are so many ring road itineraries to choose from, the third consideration is, why choose between one direction or the other? After you have visited Iceland once, why not come back a second time and travel the ring road the opposite way? There are so many things to see, you would have missed out on some the first time. If you are hiring a car in Reykjavik , ask your car rental company for options and advice. They will have an idea of the best route to take for the specific season in which you are traveling.

Why do many itineraries in Iceland recommend going anti-clockwise?

The reason is simple, there are far more stops in the Southern Region of Iceland that in any other part of the country, for the most common itineraries. The most well-known touristic points and destinations are located in South Iceland. At the beginning of your trip, you will have plenty of time to cover all of them. If the weather toughens or if your pace gets slowed down, you can always speed up your trip later on without missing the most important spots in Iceland.

Another factor is the energy and stamina. If you start your trip clockwise, by the time you reach the southern area of the island, you might have been touring for 5 to 6 days already. Getting up early, heading back to bed quite late, doing activities all day long...and so on. The activities in the Southern Highlands of Iceland and the Southern coast do require a bit of strength if you want to enjoy them at its fullest. You don't want to miss the opportunity of climbing a glacier at Skaftafell because you're drowsy and tired, right?

Places to Stop on a Ring Road Trip

For this instance, I’ll describe the route in counterclockwise order:

The Golden Circle

Only a part of the Golden Circle utilizes the ring road. The rest of the stops are further north and inland, making use of other highways. This is the most famous tourist trip to take in Iceland and consists of three main stops: Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Þingvellir National Park.

Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and is stunning to see any time of the year. The Geysir geothermal area is a large expanse full of boiling mud pits, and the chief attraction is Geysir, one of the largest geysers in the world. Þingvellir National Park is renowned for two reasons. It is the site where Iceland’s (and the world’s) first parliament was held and is also a spot where you can stand on two tectonic plates at once. Iceland is being split in two, as half of it is located on the North American plate and half on the Eurasian plate. Þingvellir is at the center of this split.

Aside from these three wonders, there are many other great places to explore in the Golden Circle area, such as the Secret Lagoon, Iceland’s oldest swimming pool. It’s actually a fantastic place to  see the northern lights from in the winter months.

All Along the South Coast of Iceland

The south coast section of Route 1 is regarded as one of the best parts of an Iceland road trip. Start with the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. It’s 60 meters (200 feet) high and is one of the only waterfalls in Iceland that you can walk behind. The waterfall actually featured in one of Justin Bieber’s music videos:

It’s a little off the ring road, up Road 249, and there’s a nearby car park which charges for its use. Don’t try to walk behind the waterfall in the winter; only when the weather is good. Next along the coast is Reynisfjara black sand beach at Vík. There are some fantastic basalt columns and rock formations to admire there. That takes you just under half-way across Iceland, approximately 180km (112 miles) from Reykjavík.

Further along is the Eldhraun lava field, a 565sqkm area covered with lava from previous eruptions. Sitting atop the lava is bright green moss. Please don’t walk on the moss; it is very delicate and grows very slowly. Last of the well-known south coast stops is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It’s where the famous Diamond Beach is located, where chunks of glacier ice sit spread around on a black sand beach. You can also take a boat tour in the glacier lagoon, and go ice caving.

All Along the North Coast

It’s highly recommended to stop at Lake Mývatn, a glacial lake in the north. Nearby there is the  Mývatn Nature Baths , another of Iceland’s incredible geothermal spas. A little further and you come to Goðafoss, or ‘The waterfall of the Gods’. Be sure to snap some pictures of this marvel.

After Goðafoss you reach Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest urban area. If you’re heading there in the winter months, it has a fantastic skiing/snowboarding hill: Hlíðarfjall. Since it’s so far north, the snow there is generally fantastic. Note that if you are driving the ring road in the winter, the weather can become extreme. Roads will be closed if they are unsafe to drive on due to heavy snow or ice.

Akureyri is also a great place to visit in the summer, with plenty of hikes and great events to entertain you. Keep going and take a 45-minute detour off the ring road to Hofsós. Here you will find a naturally heated infinity pool that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, offering spectacular views on a good weather day. Head further west and you reach the Westfjords. As I said before, the ring road doesn’t reach up to them, but it’s worth detouring to see some spectacular waterfalls and rural Icelandic towns.

As you head back down the west coast and towards Reykjavík, stop at Mount Esja and hike up it. It’s only a short distance north of the capital and it takes a couple of hours to reach the peak. The reward is some stunning views of the surrounding area. This hike is best left attempted only in good weather, and when there hasn’t recently been heavy snowfall.

How Long Does the Ring Road Take?

In theory, you could drive the ring road in a day, but that would be without stopping at any of the aforementioned places of interest. The ring road is 1332 km (828 miles), with mostly a 90kmph speed limit and two lanes. There are some single-lane bridges, so keep an eye out for those and approach with caution. There’s no limit to how long you can take to drive around the ring road, but a week would give you a good opportunity to have an adventure without rushing. So, take the road clockwise or counterclockwise, the choice is yours. Whatever the season, bring warm, waterproof clothing and prepare for the possibility of bad weather.

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Iceland is known as the land of fire and ice for a reason!

From geysers to lava fields, natural hot springs to volcanos, the contrast of its natural landscape is what makes this country so breathtakingly beautiful.

Tracing its roots back to the Vikings, explore the capital of Reykjavik with its cultural offerings, multiple cafes, and a close-by jaunt to the Blue Lagoon. For dramatic nature, explore the Westfjords, Northern fishing villages, and Southern black sand beaches. For such a small country, Iceland offers a big punch! Curious? Follow me on Instagram and YouTube for more adventures!

To sum it up, visiting Iceland is an adventurer’s dream. Now you may be wondering, how can one see it all in one trip? The best way is to rent a car and go on a road trip. Route 1, nicknamed the Ring Road, is a paved two-lane road that connects the whole country together.

Know before you go

While this itinerary covers the full length of the Ring Road (that’s 1332 km or 828 miles!), you can choose to extend or shorten the trip in any way you like - as well as going either clockwise or counterclockwise. Be that just doing the famous Golden Circle or driving the full length of the Ring Road, driving out East or West first, each corner of this Nordic island nation has a unique stop to experience.

Rent a car : This is essential for any Iceland trip - rent your car from Reykjavík airport or the city centre. You'll need the total freedom to explore Iceland. Curious about what car to rent or where to start? You can get more information here .

Driving Clockwise: If you start the Ring Road trip clockwise (starting from Reykjavik heading towards Snæfellsnes Peninsula), there will be fewer crowds than counterclockwise. However, the sights (as spectacular as each one in Iceland is) are less flashy than that of the spots that come near the later half of the itinerary. Depending on how much energy you have near the end of completing the Ring Road, the more action-packed part of the itinerary is definitely in the later-half. 

Driving Counterclockwise: If you start the Ring Road trip counterclockwise (starting from Reykjavik then going South-west) you will see the most iconic spots of Iceland first, like destinations in the Golden Circle. The few stops and days are packed with things to do! However, a downside to this is that it’s also the most popular route for day-trippers, and for most people in general. Prepare for much bigger crowds to start the trip with if you’re driving the Ring Road clockwise. 

Best time to visit Iceland / Weather in Iceland: The best time to visit Iceland on this itinerary's road trip is in springtime, summer, and autumn, as the roads might be less accessible in wintertime due to deep snow. If you travel in April or September, you even have a good chance of seeing the northern lights. For any season, it's always a good idea to pack warm clothes (sweaters, knits) as well as a rain jacket as Iceland's weather can change at a sudden notice.

Stop 1: Reykjavík

The glorious capital of Iceland has it all - Reykjavík is filled with architectural treasures, restaurants where you can try Icelandic cuisine, and multiple fun bars where you can drink like a Viking. Especially on Laugavegur , one of the oldest streets of the city, you’ll find it all. We’re talking about restaurants, boutiques, and the heartbeat of the city’s nightlife. It’s fun to just walk down this main street and see what the pulse of Reykjavik is like. 

The best way to experience the city? Why not go on a walking tour that you can book here , where a local guide will take you around on foot around the capital.

Then within walking distance is Hallgrímskirkja , a Lutheran parish church that is designed with inspiration from Thor’s hammer! If you look at the building you’ll be able to see how the hammer’s handle is standing up, connecting the architecture to Iceland’s Norse mythology. Another landmark connecting Icelandic history is the Sun Voyager , located on Reykjavík’s waterfront. As an art piece, it’s also connects Icelandic culture from the past to the future, as it faces out into the water and mountains in the distance. As you walk down the waterfront, the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is a glass honeycomb building that has become a poetic setting for Reykjavík’s cultural scene. Architecture lovers like us would find the building mesmerizing throughout the day, as the honeycomb design reflects different shimmers of light depending on the sun’s ray. 

As Iceland’s biggest city, you’ll come to realize really quickly just how safe it is as well. You can walk around easily without worry, and everything feels within reach without having to take any sort of transit (if you want to see the various corners of the city that is). Whichever path you go from here, you can't go wrong with starting your adventures!

The best experiences in Iceland for your trip

8-Day Self Drive Ring Road Tour

Full-day South Coast Adventure and Glacier Hike on Solheimajokull, from Reykjavik

4-Days Self Drive Van Tour

Where to stay in reykjavik:.

Budget - Central Guesthouse Reykjavík

Check the latest rates and the reviews on Booking.com

Mid-range - Reykjavik Downtown Hotel

Luxury - AVA Apartments

Stop 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Today begins your Ring Road journey! As you drive out of Reykjavík, you may already spot your first Icelandic horses in the rolling countryside. Keep an eye out for them, as there are plenty of spots throughout the country where you can pull your car over and go up close to pet them! The Icelandic horses are their own special breeds, resembling the sizes of ponies. 

You can also experience this corner of Iceland on a full day bookable tour too - that way you won't miss out on anything!

As you embark on this country-wide road trip, one of the main places you’ll first encounter is Snæfellsjökull National Park . Consider it a detour as it’s off the Ring Road, though it’s worth the visit for its cliff-sides at Hellnar View Point , and glacier-topped volcano. It’s also one of the three National Parks in Iceland! In the peninsula, there’s the lone black church, Budirkirkja , that stands amongst a wide field with mountains looming in the background. It may feel eerie but definitely leaves you contemplating how massive Iceland is to explore, even though it looks small on a map. These places make up the whole Snæfellsnes Peninsula - which is like already like a bite-size taste of Iceland and what’s to come on your Ring Road trip. 

Continuing back on route 1, you’ll reach Kirkjufellsfoss , your first of many noteworthy Icelandic waterfalls! Kirkjufellsfoss’ distinctly shaped peak mountain with panoramic views of waterfalls makes it another serene spot to take in the country’s beauty. It really does feel like the waterfall combines the best of both worlds: the crescendo of water with a backdrop of a rugged green mountain to sum up what this country’s nature is all about. 

Total Distance: 230 kilometers / about 3h40 minutes

Where to Stay in and around Snæfellsnes Peninsula:

Budget - The Freezer Hostel & Culture Center

Mid-range - Kirkjufell Guesthouse and Apartments

Luxury - The Bookstore Family Apartment

Stop 3: Northern Iceland

This is the start of Northern Iceland, a vast area with tons of Icelandic natural beauty to take in.  First, you’ll see Hvitserkur , which is this 15-meter tall basalt rock formation standing firmly from the water. Does it resemble a dragon? Or more of a rhino? You be the judge! Down the route is Glaumbær Farm & Museum . It’s an open museum that is a heritage site made of 13 turf farmhouses, allowing you to peek into how life was back in 18th-19th century Iceland. This is a spectacular way to imagine how the people of this land lived amongst all the harsh weather conditions, how they cultivated life here to make this island theirs. 

Towards the end the day, you’ll base yourself in Akureyri, the largest town in northern Iceland. It may feel like this has been the closest thing you’ve been to civilization the whole day, as Northern Iceland has been long continuous stretch of driving. But this is only one of the main towns up here! This is a great place to rest and explore gems like the Akureyri Church and Lystigarður Akureyrar .  

Akureyri Church has prominent pillars that make it distinctive and look like it pierces through the skyline. Designed by local state architect Guðjón Samúelsson and built-in 1940, the Lutheran church contains a huge 3,200-pipe organ which adds to its marvel. 

Lystigarður Akureyrar is a botanical garden that is only 50km south of the Arctic Circle - so expect some plant species that you won’t find anywhere else! With over 7000 species of plants, the entrance is also free to wander in and explore them.

You can also explore Northern Iceland as part of a tour that you can check out here .

Total Distance: 205.4 kilometers  /  about 2h45 minutes

Where to Stay in Akureyri:

Budget - Hafnarstræti Hostel

Mid-range - K16Apartments

Luxury - Hotel Kea by Keahotels

Stop 4: North Iceland

Are you ready for another action-packed day? Continuing in the north of Iceland, this region is filled with out of this world nature and today will be back to back with them! It's possible to book this day as a separate tour on its own, to experience North Iceland here .

Arriving at Goðafoss , you’ll see that it’s a huge stretch of a waterfall at 12 meters high and 30 meters wide! Just hearing the rumbling of the falls makes you think of crashing thunder, that’s how loud it is! Don’t forget to check out ​​Geitafoss , which is another hugely stunning waterfall just within a few steps of the Goðafoss . If you get a bit of water splashed on yourself from the running falls, that’s Iceland’s way of freshening you up.

Following the Ring Road, you’ll reach the shimmering milky blue waters of Mývatn , a large volcanic lake. The landscape looks alien, if only it was possible to find water on Mars then this land is what it could look like. Though here in Iceland, life surrounds it with plenty of birds flocking all around the lake. Nearby is Mývatn Nature Baths , where you can have a pitstop to soak in the hot springs from the lake. If you need a spa day, this would be the perfect place to feel the warm mineral-rich waters. And when we say warm, we mean that the water’s temperature is actually 36 – 40°C! 

In the area is also Hverir , which adds to the otherworldly feeling of Iceland. It’s a geothermal spot that stands out for earthy pigments with glooming mudpools and thick steam. Walking around Hverir , you’ll see bubbling fumaroles (which are like vent holes from the depth of Earth) and geothermal springs. That smell that you just got a whiff of? It’s not actually rotten eggs but sulfuric gas. The whole sight is astounding and a place that makes you feel as connected to the planet as it’ll feel far off from it. 

In the same region is Grjótagjá , now iconic for where they shot the hit HBO series Game of Thrones, but has long been a cave filled with naturally heated water. Fans of the series would recognize that this is where Jon Snow and Ygritte were! You can take a peek inside, but no swimming is allowed due to it being private property. 

After we’ll drive off route 1 for a bit to see Dettifoss and Selfoss Waterfall - two plunging waterfalls that run from the glacial river of Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. While Iceland may be filled with waterfalls, it doesn’t feel as repetitive probably due to the various characteristics of each one. There’s just something about the vertical drop of gushing water set in such a diverse natural landscape that makes you feel in awe each time.

Total Distance: 134 kilometers /  about 2h15 minutes

Where to Stay in Mývatn:

Budget - Skútustadir Guesthouse

Mid-range - Dimmuborgir Guesthouse

Luxury - Hlíd Cottages

Stop 5: Eastern Iceland

Eastern Iceland has the oldest fjords in the country. Fjords are formed long ago by a glacier to create these long almost snake-like inlets with tall cliffs on each side. Coursing through the inlets is a river - making fjords a sight to admire. 

Eastern Iceland is definitely quieter than other parts of the country. With a few fishing villages along the way and valleys that stretch beyond the horizon, it really shows a slow down way of life here. If you find Eastern Island too remote to explore on your own, then check out this tour that takes care of all of its logistics.

A stunning sight is Stuðlagil Canyon with its basalt columns jut out of a winding river like long horizontal rock slices. It almost resembles long plaques of dragon scales, dark and stacked on top of another. To reach the canyon, you’ll have to drive off route 1 for a bit until you reach the small town of ​​Egilsstaðir. Then continue your drive down road 923. 

After exploring the canyon’s beauty, head back onto the Ring Road to Rjúkandafoss . While it’s not as huge as the other waterfalls you’ve seen so far on the trip, it’s still worth the quick walk to stretch out your car legs. 

Then make your way to Borgarfjörður eystri and find yourself in awe of the vastness of this village in the middle of the fjord. If you’re here during the summer, it’s considered to be the best place to see Puffins. There’s beautiful wooden houses people still live in all over this small town, and one can’t help but to wonder what it would be like to grow up in a place so remote yet connective to the country’s natural beauty. 

To end the day, drive to Seydisfjordur , a quaint village known for its rainbow brick road leading up to a known for its petit pastel church. It’s a much better version of the yellow-brick road if we’ve ever seen on. The town of Seydisfjordur is also known for its art scene - having attracted many creatives over the years. There are murals on buildings, plenty of cafes to chat up with locals, and a cultural centre that has a rotation of contemporary art exhibits.  

Total Distance: 204  kilometers  /  about 3h5 minutes 

Where to Stay in Seydisfjordur:

Budget - Seydisfjördur Guesthouse

Mid-range - Hotel Aldan - The Bank

Luxury - Hotel Aldan - The Old School

Stop 6: South Eastern Iceland

If you ever wondered what translucent blue icebergs look like - and even get a chance to touch them yourself, Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon is where you’ll get to experience such wonder. The lagoon is made up of shifting icebergs, and you may even see some seals! This is where you also have the opportunity to do a glacier-walking tour, where you strap on some mighty boots and step your way through the massive blocks of ice. 

Across the road is Diamond Beach , a black sand beach where the icebergs from the lagoon drift out in chunky fragments. You can sit on them, go up close to them, and just stare in awe of these iceberg pieces that had drifted ashore. You’ll also notice a shift in the itinerary now, the more south we start to head the more people and tourists you will start seeing again. Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon and Diamond Beach are both definitely where we started to feel how popular of a destination Iceland is (well deservingly so!). You can book a whole planned excursion to the Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon here .

Down the road is Fjallsárlón , a lake of floating ice and tranquility. These large pieces of ice come floating down into this lake from Vatnajokull, which is Europe’s largest glacier. There's a whole world within the glacier that you can explore, with Vatnajokull ice cave tours that takes you into the frozen natural wonder . Then, as you drive further on the Ring Road, Svartifoss will greet you with a 20-meter waterfall surrounded by slender hexagonal basalt columns. The next spot will be great for getting out to take a stroll on the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach. This beach comes with a sublime view of jagged rocks coming forth from the sea. Becare of the winds! Since you’re on just an open beach, depending on the weather the gust can be quite strong and sweeping across the sand.

When you’re ready, trek to the plane wreck on Sólheimasandur . This is a remnant of a US Navy aircraft from 1973 that crashed onto the southern coast of Iceland. ​​All crew members survived and were rescued, and what’s left now is the wrecked plane for you to explore! While the plane wreckage is a sight to behold, the walk there and back is barren and can feel tedious - it’s 40 minutes to 1 hour of walking one way. It’s truly in the middle of nowhere so double-check if seeing the wreckage would actually interest you, and if you have enough time. To spruce things up, you can coupled this exploration with an ATV Expedition of the black lava beaches - which would definitely add a thrill to your adventure.

Wrap up the day with some of the most magnificent waterfalls in the country, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss . Skógafoss is dramatic as it is majestic, with water cascading down from the height of 60 meters! Then down the road is Seljalandsfoss , where you can walk up and around behind the falls - so get ready to get a bit of a splash on yourself.

Total Distance: 246 kilometers /  about 3h19 minutes 

Blue Ice Cave Adventure and Glacier Hike in Skaftafell

ATV Expedition of Black Lava Beaches and Historic Plane Wreck

Skaftafell Glacier Walk through Vatnajokull National Park

Where to stay in and around skógafoss:.

Budget - Hotel Kverna

Mid-range - Guesthouse Skógafoss

Luxury - Hótel Skógafoss

Stop 7: The Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon

Ah, Iceland’s famous Golden Circle . The Golden Circle is like your favourite band's best hits album - the classic songs that get replayed often, the ones that are what the band is known for. Known for being close to Reykjavík , a lot of people do day trips from the city to these stops that make up the Golden Circle . You can break this trip up and explore the Golden Circle as a day trip on an all must-see tour or continue with it as part of your Ring Road trip.

The first stop is the Kerid Crater , which is reachable by walking down a plight of stairs to its turquoise water. The crater is over 3000 years old and now over time has filled up with water, becoming a scenic lake. Then there’s Gullfoss Falls as the next stop, a beloved waterfall located in a canyon. This marks the final waterfall of the trip! Or if you do the Golden Circle first, then this would be the first waterfall of the trip. Either way, it’s a momentous mark to these steep rushes of water. 

Of course, being the Golden Circle , the impressive sights don’t stop there - as nearby Geysir Hot Springs is a reckoning to explore. The geothermal field has geysers that actually erupt every 10 minutes, shooting water as high as 30 meters in the air. Yep, it’s as impressive as it sounds! It’s like watching mother nature having a real-life talent show on rotation. 

To round off the Golden Circle , head to Thingvellir National Park . A historical site as well as a national park, it’s where the world’s oldest existing parliament was since 930AD. Between the natural lake to the rift valley that was torn by shifting tectonic plates between North America and Eurasia - you can spend your time in Thingvellir National Park hiking and even scuba diving! If you don’t feel comfortable scuba diving, you can actually see the same sights with snorkeling. Yep, it is just as cool as it sounds - and easy to join a snorkeling tour that takes you quite literally, between continents in the Silfra Fissure . You’ll have to don a dry suit with very thick gloves. It’s still freezing for your hands and especially your lips (the only thing that's not covered) - but that’s an adventure in itself! 

As a bonus, to end your Iceland Ring Road trip, submerge yourself into the legendary thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon . It’s an outdoor spa hosted in the natural lava-shaped landscape that will soothe every muscle as it is a beautiful location itself. While we were a tad worried that this would be too commercialized, it was a real treat. Especially the in-water mask bar where you’d swim up to get a mixture of silica and algae clay for a face mask. After a huge Icelandic road trip, this was hats off a great way to kick back and relax. Get your tickets to the Blue Lagoon (including free drink and towel) here .

A free alternative to the Blue Lagoon is Reykjadalur Valley . It’s a bit of a hike out along a gravel trail, to then reach a waterfall that accumulates into a river. Across the river are lush areas of green grass with hot springs and mud pools all throughout the valley. While these hot springs are too boiling to dip in - but cool to see, the hot river has the right temperature to lounge in! The walk to the Reykjadalur Valley takes about 45-60 minutes.

Then end your trip in Reykjavík, back to where it all started.

Total Distance: 327 kilometers /  about 4h32 minutes 

Where to Stay in and around the Golden Circle:

Budget - Guesthouse Vatnsholt

Mid-range - 1A Guesthouse

Luxury - Stracta Hotel Hella

Golden Circle and Sky Lagoon Day Trip

Snorkel between Continents in the Silfra Fissure

Full-day Tour of the Golden Circle and Local Farm from Reykjavik

Notable detours

What's a road trip without veering off the main map and uncovering the gems off the beaten path?  

While the Ring Road and its many epic sights won’t require you to stray too far off route 1, if you have more time or want to mix your itinerary up, these are some notable worthy detours to check out:

South Iceland

• Laugavegur - One of the most beautiful hikes in the world that goes from the Landmannalaugar geothermal springs to the Þórsmörk nature reserve. Imagine yourself up-close to white glaciers and rolling red and gold hills. The trail is 55 kilometers, so those who go often embark on making it a 4 hiking day trip.
• Pakgil - A log cabin campsite that’s actually along the Ring Road. If you need a rest, this is a stunning site to kick back within a hidden canyon. From this campsite you can do a 1-day hike as well, walking up the canyon to a waterfall and the frosted whites of a glacier - which is a vast contrast in climate from the campsite. 
• Keldur Turf House - time warp back into Viking times and explore well-preserved homes of Iceland’s past. 
• Vestmannaeyjar - an archipelago and town off the coast of Iceland that’s reachable by ferry for a 1-day excursion. It’s a unique experience to see an island that was fully covered in lava from a volcanic eruption that happened underwater. From here, you can see thousands of puffins! It’s really a traditional small town with the Eldheimar museum that details the volcano. 

North Iceland

• Húsavík -  a small town famous for its whale watching tours. Catch a boat out into the water for a sight-seeing adventure! Also check out the beautiful wooden church in the centre of town. Bonus if you’ve watch Netflix’s Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga movie starring Rachel McAdams and Will Farrell. It’s partially set in Húsavík with a catchy song dedicated after the town too! 

Map of Iceland and the Ring Road

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Complete Iceland Ring Road Itinerary (+Map & Tips for Your Trip)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 17, 2023

Are you planning a road trip in Iceland and looking for the best itinerary that covers the entire Ring Road? This guide is for you! This ultimate Iceland Ring Road itinerary brings you to all the must-see places in 10 days. Find out!

There are so many amazing places to see in Iceland and so many different ways to plan your Iceland itinerary ! But if you are planning your first trip to Iceland and want to see all the ‘musts’, there is really no better way to do it than driving the entire Ring Road of Iceland. Iceland’s main road #1 (Þjóðvegur 1, aka Route 1) goes all around the island, and driving it is the best way to explore the main landmarks and tourist sights in Iceland.

In this article, we share the best itinerary for the complete Ring Road of Iceland in 10 days . Why 10? Because – in our opinion – this is really the shortest amount of time you need in order to enjoy all the main sights and not just tick the boxes and say that you’ve done it.

Even with 10 days for the entire Ring Road, your itinerary will be quite packed, but in a nice way, without being too stressful. If you have less time, we recommend this 7-day Iceland itinerary instead.

To help you plan your trip, we also created a map of the complete Ring Road itinerary indicating all the places mentioned in this article. You can see a photo of the map below. At the bottom of this article, you can also find an interactive version of this map that you can save to your phone and use during your trip.

Top experiences not to miss in this itinerary:

• Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon (do one at the beginning and the other one at the end of your trip).
• Silfra Snorkeling .
• Katla Ice Cave .
• GeoSea or Myvatn Nature Baths .
• Whale Watching in Husavik .

Good to know: The Ring Road trip itinerary described below can best be done between May and September – the beginning of October. While – weather permitting – you can drive the Ring Road of Iceland in any season, we don’t recommend a self-drive road trip in winter because Icelandic weather is really unpredictable. Driving in Iceland in winter is often not for the faint-hearted.

If you are visiting Iceland between mid-October and mid-April, please take a look at our recommended Iceland winter itinerary . Be sure to also check our winter travel tips for Iceland .

✓ We recommend renting your car via the RentalCars website . Not only can you compare different providers and find the best car hire deals in Iceland, but you also have a much better cancelation policy. Furthermore, you are better protected in case a local company goes bankrupt as recently happened with our favorite car rental company in Iceland. We now use RentalCars for all our car hire, all over the world, and they have refunded all our bookings for the trips we had to cancel.

TIP: Using the detailed Ring Road itinerary, our suggestions, and tips below, you will be easily able to plan your own perfect self-drive road trip in Iceland . However, if you find it overwhelming, you can also book a guided multi-day tour that covers the entire Ring Road.

If you are visiting in winter and/or rather go with an organized tour , this 8-day tour is one of the best options for the entire Ring Road. Plus, you have to add a day in Reykjavik at the beginning and also at the end of the trip, so it’s also 10 days in total.

This is our recommended 10-day itinerary for Iceland’s Ring Road:

Day 1: Arrival, Blue Lagoon & Reykjavik

Driving distance/ time: 70 km (45 miles), 1 hour .

Upon arrival at Keflavik airport, pick up your rental car . We recommend checking this website for the best car rental deals . You don’t need a 4×4 for this Ring Road trip, but a 4WD is always a good idea in Iceland, especially if you are visiting outside of the warmest months between June and August.

Many people like to start their Iceland trip with a soak in the warm geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon . Located just 20 minutes drive from the airport, this is indeed a nice stop, especially if you are coming on a red-eye flight from the U.S. Just be sure to book your (timed) Blue Lagoon tickets in advance or you risk not being able to visit!

Alternative: The recently-opened Sky Lagoon is a very popular alternative to the famous Blue Lagoon (and the majority of our readers who visited both lagoons, prefer Sky by far). It’s located closer to Reykjavik center and is easier to visit. Also here, you really have to book tickets in advance .

Then head to Reykjavik , about 40 minutes drive from the Blue Lagoon.

The rest of your day will depend a bit on how much time you have. The city center is not big and quite walkable, so you could leave your car in the hotel and go explore some of the highlights of Reykjavik on foot.

TIP: If you are too early and can’t check in at your hotel yet, you could first go to Perlan, the Wonders of Iceland . It’s one of the best museums in Reykjavik, with a real ice tunnel, a fantastic aurora show, and great views of the city and surroundings. Because this museum is located a bit outside the center, it’s easier to go there by car anyway.

In Reykjavik city center, go for a walk along the waterfront where you’ll find the Sun Voyager statue and the impressive Harpa concert hall building. A bit further along the shore, you’ll find two other great attractions – Whales of Iceland and FlyOver Iceland . These are both AMAZING attractions that are well worth your time. It’s also something nice to do on a rainy day and definitely if traveling with a family.

Then check out the Althingi Parliament House and Tjornin Lake . Walk on the main shopping streets Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur, and be sure to go up the Hallgrimskirkja church tower for the best views of the city.

You’ll also find plenty of cafes, bars, and nice restaurants in Reykjavik’s city center. Or you can opt for this popular Icelandic food tour instead – there are various departure times throughout the day and it’s a nice way to familiarize yourself with the local dishes at the start of your trip.

Where to stay: There are many nice accommodations and hotels in Reykjavik city center. Since you’ll have a car, we recommend Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel as one of the best choices – it has a great location and free parking. Here you can find our complete guide to the best places to stay in Reykjavik .

Day 2: Golden Circle

Driving distance/ time: 225 km (140 miles), 3 hours . This is purely driving time, not counting any stops.

Today, you visit one of the most popular areas in Iceland, known as the Golden Circle . There are three main places that you have to see here: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

Your first stop today is Thingvellir National Park , about 45 minutes drive from Reykjavik. This is where you can see the mid-Atlantic Ridge , where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The best views can be found at the visitor center, and you can take a short walk here. Be sure not to miss the Öxarárfoss Waterfall , the Nikulasargja Gorge, and Thingvellir church.

TIP: Lake Thingvallavatn is home to the impressive Silfra Gorge where you can go snorkeling between the two continents . Snorkeling in the crystal-clear glacial waters here is one of the most unique things you can do in Iceland!

If you book the first snorkeling tour available in the morning (usually around 9-10 AM), you’ll still have plenty of time left for the other Golden Circle attractions. You can find all the practical information and book the best-rated Silfra snorkeling tours here .

Your next stop is Geysir Geothermal Area , about 50 minutes drive from Thingvellir.

Here, you’ll find Geysir, the original geyser that gave name to all the others, but it’s been dormant for years. The good news is that the Strokkur geyser just next to it is still very active. It erupts every 5-7 minutes, spouting water up to 30 meters (100 ft) into the air – always an amazing sight!

Don’t forget to explore the nearby Geysir Center where you’ll find interesting displays about geothermal activity and earthquakes that keep on shaping Iceland. You can even try their earthquake simulator…

The next must-see place along the Golden Circle is the Golden Waterfall – Gullfoss , about 10 minutes drive from Geysir.

Gullfoss is fed by Iceland’s second biggest glacier, Langjökull, and is a very powerful waterfall. It’s usually quite windy and cold here, but if the sun is shining, you are likely to see some spectacular rainbows over the falls.

There are several walking paths here allowing you to see the waterfall from various angles. In the summer, you can walk really close to the waterfall – see the picture below.

TIP: Langjokull Glacier is a very popular place for snowmobile tours in Iceland (and they are available the whole year). If this is something you are interested in, here you can find more information and book the best glacier snowmobile tour (or this tour that also includes a visit to an ice cave).

Usually, these tours run at around noon, so it’s quite easy to fit a tour like this in your itinerary. Just keep in mind that you won’t be able to do much afterwards anymore (which may not be a big deal since you cover all the musts before you come here).

If you start your day early and don’t do any special tours, you’ll likely be done with all the sightseeing at the Golden Circle in the early afternoon. In that case, head to the nearby Fridheimar Tomato Farm and Restaurant for lunch.

This is the most popular restaurant in the area. It’s located inside a greenhouse where they also grow tomatoes, and their menu includes all kinds of tomato dishes. Tomato soup is delicious, but we weren’t particularly fond of tomato ice cream. In high season, you really should reserve a table here in advance.

Another nice stop in this area is Kerid Crater , where you can walk around the dormant volcano crater or even take the stairs down to see the bottom of the crater. Count at least half an hour for a visit. This is also one of the few nature destinations in Iceland where there’s a small entrance fee.

There are several geothermal pools in this area as well, so if you still have some time and energy, you may want to go for a warm soak there. In that case, we recommend going to Secret Lagoon before you go to Kerid Crater.

Alternatively, head to your accommodation. Depending on where you’re staying, you could go for a swim in one of the local pools or relax in a hot tub at your hotel.

Where to stay: Stay in Hella or in Hvolsvöllur – this area fits this itinerary best and there’s a nice public pool in Hella. The best luxury hotel in this area is Hotel Ranga . On a mid-range budget, check out Stracta Hotel Hella – both these hotels have hot tubs. Hotel Kanslarinn Hella is a good no-thrills option on a somewhat lower budget. If you are looking for hostel-style accommodation, then Midgard Base Camp is the place to be.

Day 3: South Coast

Driving distance/ time: 290 km (180 miles), 3.5 hours .

Today, you drive Iceland’s Ring Road in the easterly direction and visit the beautiful South Coast of Iceland. After the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle, this is another one of the most visited places in the country.

There are many great things to do on the South Coast of Iceland , and you could spend several days just exploring this area. However, if you are driving the entire Ring Road in 10 days, you’ll have just one day for this area and will have to be more selective.

The main places that you have to see along the South Coast are Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and the black sand beach in Vik . Another popular stop is Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon .

TIP: If you want to visit a natural ice cave or go hiking on a glacier in Iceland , the South Coast is the best place for that.

With just one day on the South Coast, we recommend that you do the following.

Start your day early and drive to Seljalandsfoss waterfall (about half an hour drive from Hella). This is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland, famous for the fact that you can walk behind it. Prepare to get wet! Just a short walk to the left of the falls, there’s another waterfall hidden inside a gorge – Gljúfrabúi waterfall . Be sure to check it out too!

Afterwards, continue further east to Skogafoss , another must-see waterfall along the South Coast. Here, you can take a staircase to the top of the falls, and also visit the nearby Skógar Museum . This is a great place if you want to see some turf houses in Iceland.

Another half an hour’s drive further, you’ll find the small town of Vik. It’s best known for the black sand beach Reynisfjara and it’s really a must-see.

Another nice place to check out in Vik is the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse and rock formations . In summer, this might be a good place to see puffins, but not ideal during the day because they are usually ‘gone fishing’ then. Also, there’s a better place for that on the next day of this itinerary – more info further below.

TIP: If you want to visit a natural ice cave in Iceland , this is the only place where you can do that at any time of the year. In that case, be sure to prebook this ice cave tour . It starts in Vik, takes about 3 hours, and has several departure times during the day, including one at around noon, which would fit this itinerary best.

Please note that most glacier tours in Iceland don’t allow kids under 8, but there’s also another tour to this same ice cave and they say they allow children from 6 years old. A nice alternative family-friendly activity in Vik is the Icelandic Lava Show .

After that, continue to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon , stopping at the Eldhraun lava field along the way. The Hofskirkja turf church is another nice short stop further down the Ring Road.

If you don’t do the ice cave tour, or if you are visiting in summer when the days are very long, be sure to also stop at Skaftafell Nature Reserve . There are several really nice hikes here, and they have a visitor center where you can get all the info. If you do just one short hike, the best option is Svartifoss (aka the Black Waterfall), about 3 km (2 miles) in total, and will likely take you at least 1.5 hours.

The Skaftafell area is also one of the best places to go glacier hiking and this is one of the best tours , with several departure times during the day. But since you only have time for one tour, my personal recommendation would be the earlier-mentioned ice cave tour from Vik.

Where to stay: The nicest and best-located hotels in this area are Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon (higher budget) and Hali Country Hotel (mid-range). Here you can find more suggestions on where to stay near Jokulsarlon .

TIP: If you still have some energy, you may want to check out Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach in the evening. It’s nice to be here without the crowds of day-trippers, and this place is truly beautiful at sunset.

Day 4: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Stokksnes & East Fjords (+Puffins)

Driving distance/ time: 270 km (170 miles), 3.5 hours. This doesn’t include sightseeing or detours.

Today, you’ll be visiting one of the most popular landmarks of Iceland – the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon . This glacial lake is filled with big chunks of ice that come from a nearby glacier, and the scenery changes all the time. So even if you visited last night, it will likely be totally different in the morning.

You can simply walk along the lagoon and one of the beaches across the road , popularly known as the Diamond Beach. Depending on the season and the weather, you’ll often find icebergs washed ashore here. It’s especially impressive in winter, but always worth checking out since you really can’t predict what you’ll find here.

If you want to get very close to the icebergs (and seals), you can also opt for a boat tour on the lagoon. This is one of the most popular tours on the South Coast and you have an option between amphibian boats or zodiac boats.

The amphibian boat tours are cheaper and take just half an hour, whereas zodiac boat tours take about 1 hour and are usually able to get a bit closer to the ice. Both are really nice experiences, and you’ll get to see amazing scenery either way. If you are planning on taking a boat here, opt for the earliest tour available (it’s best for this itinerary)!

Next, stop at Stokksnes . This is a beautiful coastal area with black sand and an impressive Vestrahorn mountain backdrop that makes for some spectacular pictures. Since it’s located on private land, there’s a small fee to enter.

Afterwards, continue your journey to the Eastfjords . This is one of the least developed regions along Iceland’s Ring Road, and a good place to see wildlife, especially reindeer.

There are several places where you can stop when touring the Eastfjords. Petra’s Stone Collection is one of the quirkiest places and also Lagarfljót Lake is worth a quick photo stop, and potentially also Hallormsstaðaskógur, the biggest forest in Iceland, or the picturesque village Eskifjörður , but it’s a bit out of your way.

Another popular place is Seydisfjordur . This is a small town best known for its rainbow path leading towards the local church, but one of the nicest things to do is simply the drive to get there.

Where to stay: Stay in Egilsstaðir , the biggest town in this area. Lake Hotel is the nicest hotel in town, but Icelandair Hotel Herad also offers great value for a much better price and is perfect for a one-night stay. On a budget, check out Lyngas Guesthouse .

TIP: About a 1-hour drive northeast of Egillstadir, there’s a tiny village Borgarfjörður Eystri . If you drive all the way to the end of the road here, you’ll find a place called Borgarfjarðarhöfn . This is one of the best places to see puffins when driving the Ring Road of Iceland. And yes, it’s a detour from the Ring Road, but since you are staying in Egillstadir for the night, it’s perfectly doable.

The best time to see puffins is from mid-May to mid-August, and going there in the evening is always better since the birds return from the sea for the night. The days are endless at this time of the year, so there’s no need to worry about having to drive back in the dark.

TIP: Just north of Egillstadir, you can find one of the newest geothermal baths in Iceland, Vök Baths . They are usually open until 10 PM and can be a nice place to end your day of sightseeing. It’s actually probably worth your time more than many of the stops along the Eastfjords (not to mention that it’s more relaxing).

Day 5: Myvatn Area

Driving distance/ time: 300 km (185 miles), 3.5 hours. This includes detours as described below, but not the time for sightseeing.

There are several ways how you could fill this day. Doing the trip as we recommend below means that you can spend the night in Husavik, which tends to be somewhat cheaper and less popular with groups than the hotels around Myvatn. But you could perfectly stay in Myvatn as well and go to Husavik the next morning.

Your first stop today is Dettifoss , about 2 hours drive from Egilsstadir. This is Europe’s most powerful waterfall and a must-see in North Iceland! This waterfall can be visited from two sides – via road 864 on the east, or via road 862 on the west.

Both sides are very impressive, but the western side is easier to get to and the road is paved all the way to the parking lot. From there, it’s about 15-20 minutes walk to the viewing platforms at Dettifoss, and you can also see another nice waterfall – Sellfoss. If you have a 4WD car, you can also visit the eastern side, but doing both would mean that you’ll lose about half a day for this waterfall alone.

Next, head in the direction of Lake Myvatn, where you’ll find quite a few interesting places. First, take a small road to the right off the Ring Road in the direction of the Krafla Power Plant. At the end of the road, you’ll find the Viti volcano crater (aka Krafla Volcano) with a green lake inside it.

It’s just a short walk from the car to the crater (or you can go all the way around it), and it’s well worth seeing. You can also stop for a short walk in the Leirhnjukur area.

The next stop is the Námaskarð geothermal area , aka Hverir , just next to the Ring Road. The colorful landscape with mud cauldrons, steaming vents, and fumaroles, makes this one of the most unique places to see along the Ring Road in Northern Iceland. Just be prepared for the strong smell of sulfur and stay on the marked paths!

After this, you can take a small detour to Grjótagjá , an underground lava cave with water inside. It only takes a few minutes to see the cave, so it might be worth a small detour (swimming is not allowed here).

Then, head to Myvatn Lake and drive all around it.

One of the must-see stops here is the Dimmuborgir lava field. There are several short hiking trails here (partially paved and easily accessible). If you feel like stretching your legs, go for a walk on the Kirkjuhringur trail. It’s a loop of about 2.2 km (1.4 miles) and shouldn’t take you more than 30-45 minutes, or you can just do a small part on the paved track. There is also a nice cafe here where you could get lunch.

Along the southern side of the lake, be sure to also stop at Skútustaðir . This is the best area to see the pseudocraters of Lake Myvatn.

But be prepared for bugs! Myvatn literally means ‘the mosquito lake’ and it’s usually full of little flies here in summer. They don’t bite but crawl inside your ears, your nose, and your mouth if you are not careful… We recommend packing a small head net – it doesn’t cost much and fits in your pocket and you’ll be glad to have it here.

By now, you’ll have covered most of the Myvatn attractions (or at least the main ones that you can see in a day), and you could drive on to Husavik where we recommend spending the night. The drive from Myvatn to Husavik is about 45 minutes.

TIP: There is a nice geothermal pool in Husavik called Geosea , and it’s a great place to end your day. Alternatively, head to the famous Myvatn Nature Baths before you drive to Husavik.

It’s really hard to compare these pools since they are so different. The one in Husavik is more expensive and has a smaller limit on the number of people allowed at the same time. It’s more exclusive, plus it boasts amazing ocean views. Whereas Myvatn Nature Baths are much better known and quite busy (more comparable to the Blue Lagoon).

Where to stay: We recommend staying in Husavik. As already said before, Myvatn accommodation tends to be (even more) expensive, and staying in Husavik will make it easier to plan your next day too. The nicest hotel here is Fosshotel Husavik . A better value hotel is Post-Plaza Guesthouse , one of the top picks in Husavik. Accommodations in this part of Iceland are quite expensive and often fully booked long in advance. So you really should reserve as soon as you know your travel dates.

Day 6: Whales, Godafoss & Akureyri

Driving distance/ time: 115 km (70 miles), 1.5 hours. This includes all detours described below.

Husavik is the whale-watching capital of Iceland . So if you want to see whales in Iceland (and summer is a great season for that), this is the best place to do that. There are many whale watching tours and their itineraries and prices are quite similar (and they’ll likely all go to the same place when the whales are located).

Be sure to book in advance and take the earliest tour you can (usually around 9.30-10 AM). These tours take about 3 hours, so it will be past noon by the time you are back and you could have lunch in Husavik. This is fine because the drive to Akureyri isn’t that long and you can choose to visit a few places along the way if you want to and make this day as full or as relaxing as you feel like.

Also, there’s a nice museum – The Husavik Whale Museum – that you could visit before or after your boat tour.

Good to know: If you absolutely want to, you could also take a detour from Husavik to the nearby Asbyrgi Canyon . But it’s about 60km (40 mi) out of the way, so you’d need at least 2 hours extra for this. While a nice place to see, if you have to choose between Asbyrgi or whale watching in Husavik, I’d go for the latter. You can also do both, of course – that would mean less time in Akureyri and surroundings, so see what interests you more. You can read about Asbyrgi Canyon in our guide to the Myvatn area .

Another must-see place today is Godafoss Waterfall . It’s located right next to Ring Road, about 35 minutes drive from Husavik. There are two parking areas on different sides of the river, and they are also connected by a small bridge. So you can leave your car on one side and go explore the waterfall on foot. You can spend just 15-20 minutes here or more than an hour – the choice is yours.

It’s just a short 30 min drive from Godafoss to Akureyri following the Ring Road westwards, via the toll tunnel. This is the only toll road on this trip and you can pay the toll 24 hours before or after you drive via the tunnel via this website . But there’s a much nicer alternative – taking the old mountain road #84, which is not just free of charge, but also more scenic. It’s a good road and – in summer – adds just 10-15 minutes to your journey, and you don’t have to worry about the toll.

Also, if you take the scenic route, you’ll drive past a small village Svalbarðseyri . There’s a quirky art gallery just next to the road that you may want to check out, and there’s also a very picturesque orange lighthouse in the village itself.

For the lighthouse, you’ll have to take a small detour off the main road, but it’s literally just a minute or two down the road. It’s such a nice place for a photo stop and no tourists in sight.

On your way to Akureyri, you could also take a small detour via roads 829 and 821 to one of the quirkiest attractions nearby – Jólahúsið (Christmas House) . It’s Christmas the whole year round in this shop!

We also enjoyed a short stop at the nearby Kaffi Ku , which is a working farm with a restaurant above the cowshed. They are open for lunch (noon to 5 PM) and serve some delicious Icelandic waffles. Coming from Godafoss, you’ll pass the cow café first, before you get to Christmas House.

In Akureyri, you can also stop at the Botanical Gardens , on the outskirts of town. The entrance is free of charge and it’s a really nice place for a short walk. Afterwards, head to your hotel, leave the car, and go explore Iceland’s second-largest ‘city’. Akureyri is so small that you can see the city center in an hour or so. You’ll find lots of nice cafes and restaurants here for dinner and there’s also a nice public pool in town that’s usually open late in the evening.

TIP: If you didn’t do the whale-watching trip in Husavik, you could also opt for a whale tour from Akureyri . There are quite a few tour options , including a midnight-sun/whale-watching combination trip on summer evenings. Also, there is a new geothermal pool opening in Akureyri – Forest Lagoon . It could be another nice addition to this itinerary if you have an hour or two to spare.

Where to stay: There are lots of accommodation options in Akureyri , and since there’s not that much choice further westwards, it’s probably better to just take it easy and stay here for the night. Hotel Kea by Keahotels is one of the nicest hotels in town. On a mid-range budget, check the Centrum Hotel . On a lower budget, Hrafninn Guesthouse .

However, keep in mind that parking can be a bit problematic if you stay in the center on weekdays. It’s usually not a big issue to find a spot not too far from the hotel, but sometimes you also have to pay, so keep an eye on that. We recommend Icelandair Hotel Akureyri ; it’s just a bit outside of the busiest area (still very close to everything) and parking is much easier here.

Day 7: Tröllaskagi Peninsula

Driving distance/ time: 265 km (165 miles), 3.5 hours. This includes driving past all the stops mentioned below, but not the sightseeing time.

Today, we recommend that you visit one of the nicest areas of Northern Iceland, the Trollaskagi Peninsula . This is a place that you’ll hardly ever see in any Iceland Ring Road itineraries, but we find that it’s worth your time more than some places that others visit in western Iceland just because they are closer to the main road…

The first stop is Siglufjörður , about 1-1.5 hours drive from Akureyri. This is a nice little town with an extremely picturesque harbor area.

There are some nice things to do in Siglufjordur , but if you visit just one place, don’t miss the Herring Era Museum . Please note that the museum is open daily from 10 AM in June, July, and August, but only opens in the afternoon during the shoulder season (more info on their website ).

Continue your trip further along the coast and soon you’ll see Trollaskagi Lighthouse at the northernmost tip of the peninsula. The road to get to it is quite steep and gravel, but you can just see it from the road. The scenery here is beautiful!

From then on, the views just keep getting better and better, and if you are driving here on a sunny day, you’ll have to agree with me that the scenery along Road #76 is one of the most scenic places in Iceland!

The next stop is a small village called Hofsós. The main reason to come here is the local Hofsos swimming pool which has some of the best pool views in Iceland!

Following this itinerary, you’ll likely be here in the middle of the day, but I really recommend stopping here. It’s such a nice place! If the weather would be really bad, then skip it, but if it’s not raining, definitely go for a swim or a soak in the hot tub. This pool is normally open daily, from 9 AM to 9 PM. We spent about an hour here.

Just outside the village, you can find one of the oldest turf churches in Iceland, Grafarkirkja . It’s extremely picturesque and the surroundings make it look even more special. Don’t miss it! Here you can read our detailed guide for all the places mentioned above: Road 76, Hofos, Grafarkirkja, and more .

There is one more nice place to check out before you get back to the Ring Road, Glaumbær Farm & Museum . This is a reconstructed farm where you can see how people used to live in Iceland about 150-250 years ago. It’s really worth a visit, which shouldn’t take more than 30-45 minutes. In the summer season, it’s open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. More info on their website .

Once you reach the Ring Road, we recommend taking a small detour south on Road #752 to a beautiful waterfall called Reykjafoss .

It’s a bit of a hidden gem and there is a natural hot tub in that same area. It was well indicated when we visited and there were quite some people here, so it seems that it’s not that unknown anymore. Also, you have to walk for about 10-15 minutes to reach the falls, and a few minutes extra to find the hot tub next to the river. I’d say it’s not a must, but if you have some time left, it can be a nice stop.

Good to know: The natural hot tub can be found on the other side of the wooden bridge and over the hill to the right. If you plan to go swimming here, you should know that there are no facilities whatsoever. And the hot tub was also crowded when we were there. Let’s just say that we prefer the Hofsos swimming pool by far, and there’s also a nice swimming pool in Blönduós where we recommend spending the night. So plenty of places to go for a swim in the warm geothermal waters today!

The last photo stop today is Víðimýrarkirkja. It’s another really nice turf church, but because it’s located just next to the Ring Road, it can get quite busy here. It doesn’t take more than 5-10 minutes to visit, so be sure to check it out!

End your day in Blönduós, one of the bigger towns in this area. You’ll find all kinds of facilities here and also some accommodations. As already mentioned, there is a nice public swimming pool in this town as well, and it’s usually open quite late.

Where to stay: We recommend Brimslóð Atelier Guesthouse , or on a somewhat lower budget – Hotel Blanda . Both are really nice places and the hotel also has a good restaurant. There are several other options on a lower budget here as well, but accommodation choice is quite limited.

Day 8: North Coast to Snaefellsnes

Driving distance/ time: 260 km (160 miles), 4 hours. This includes all the detours mentioned below.

Today, you could just take the Ring Road and head straight to western Iceland, but you can also opt for a few short detours along the way. There are several places that we recommend checking out and I think they’re worth it more than some of the places in the west (in particular, Hraunfossar and Barnafossar waterfalls that are quite often included in the Ring Road itinerary).

Just as you leave Blonduos, you could take a detour on Road #721 to see Þingeyraklausturskirkja church , one of the oldest stone buildings in Iceland.

One of the best stops we recommend today is Hvitserkur , a rhino-shaped rock just next to the beautiful black sand beach on Vatnsnes Peninsula. On the way there, you could also stop at Borgarvirki , a medieval fortification that dates from the 9th-11th centuries. There are also several places where you can see seals in this area.

In addition, close to Ring Road 1 in this area, there’s also a nice canyon with a waterfall, Kolugljúfur Canyon . You can find more information about all these places in our guide to visiting Hvitserkur .

Continuing your way to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, you can also stop at Eiriksstadir – Viking Longhouse . It’s a replica of a Viking-era farm with turf buildings, guides dressed in period clothing, etc. It’s a great place to learn more about Iceland’s history, so it’s better to ask for a guided tour, or you won’t appreciate it the same way. This open-air museum is open daily from June to September, from 10 AM to 4 PM. More info on their website .

Next is the famous Snaefellsnes Peninsula , home to one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains and waterfalls – Kirkjufellsfoss . You’ll have an entire day here the next day as well, but there’s so much to see and do in Snaefellsnes that it’s better to visit a few places today already.

Be sure to visit Stykkishólmur , a picturesque fishing village and the main town in this area. You can leave your car by the harbor and take a short walk to Súgandisey Island Lighthouse . Stykkisholmur is also one of the best places to stay in Snaefellsnes Peninsula , and there are some nice hotels and restaurants here. But ideally, for this itinerary, you drive just a bit further west today.

On the way, check out the Berserkjahraun lava field and potentially also the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum (it’s usually open until 5 PM in summer).

TIP: We recommend staying in Grundarfjörður town, which is just near Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall . This would give you a unique opportunity to visit this popular place without the crowds and maybe even see a really nice sunset here.

Where to stay: Accommodation options in Grundarfjörður are quite limited, but if you book in advance, it’s usually possible to find something suitable. The nicest place to stay is Dis Cottages , and the most popular highly-rated option is Kirkjufell Guesthouse and Apartments .

We stayed at Grundarfjordur Bed and Breakfast , which was the only accommodation available here that could accommodate a big family like ours. It’s a good no thrills choice in Grundafjordur, and they also have a nice local restaurant where you can have dinner (also if you are not staying here).

Day 9: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Driving distance/ time: 265 km (165 miles), 3.5 hours. This is the distance counting from Grundarfjörður, visiting all the Snaefelsness Peninsula attractions as described below and ending in Reykjavik. Driving time doesn’t include sightseeing.

Today, spend as much time as you can exploring Snaefellsnes Peninsula, before driving to Reykjavik. We have a very complete guide to the area where you can find all the practical information for your visit to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, so please see that article for more details. It even has a suggested 1-day itinerary.

Below is just an overview of the best places not to miss, listed in the right order, how you’ll be driving. Start with Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss . Even if you already saw this place last night, you may want to stop here for a quick picture in a different light once again. Then continue to Skarðsvík Beach where you can also visit the Öndverðarnes and Svörtuloft Lighthouses .

Other nice places along the way are Svödufoss (waterfall) and Ingjaldshólskirkja (church), but with so many other amazing places, don’t feel bad if you skip these two.

Don’t miss the Saxholar Volcano Crater – you can take stairs and see it from the top. And also Djúpalónssandur Beach is a beautiful place where you can take a walk between some cool rock formations and on a nice black sand beach.

If you do just one tour on the peninsula, make it the 8000-year-old Vatnshellir lava cave . It’s best to book your time slot in advance (try by phone +354 787 0001 since their website isn’t really working as it should) or you risk that it’s sold out as it was when we visited.

This tour takes about 1 hour and is one of the most unique places you can see here! I’d book it for either 1 PM or 2 PM. There are many other places nearby, so you can quite easily adjust your visit to the other areas based on the tour time you booked here.

Driving further around the peninsula, check out Malariff Lighthouse and Londrangar View Point .

Next, head to Arnarstapi where you’ll find the most spectacular coastline and interesting rock formations. There’s a nice hike that you can do here, between Hellnar and Arnarstapi, but with just a day in Snaefellsnes, it’s going to be difficult to squeeze it all in. That’s why we recommend going straight to Arnarstapi and making a short walk along the coast there. This is a must-see, so don’t miss it!

Other nice stops include Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge , Búðakirkja , and Bjarnarfoss . You could also stop at Ytri Tunga beach , where you can sometimes see seals. As you drive in the direction of Reykjavik, you can also stop for a photo at Gerðuberg Cliffs . You can find more information about all these places in our guide to the best things to do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula .

Where to stay: With 10 days in Iceland, we recommend that you drive to Reykjavik in the evening on day 9, after visiting Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Here you can find our detailed guide on where to stay in Reykjavik .

In case your flight departs very early the next day, it’s best to sleep closer to the airport. B&B Hotel Keflavik Airport is a good choice with easy parking, a restaurant next door, and a free airport shuttle if you need it.

Day 10: Reykjavik, Reykjanes Peninsula & Departure

Driving distance/ time from Reykjavik to the airport: 50 km (30 miles), 45 min.

Depending on your flight time, you may want to explore more of Reykjavik. See our suggestions on day 1 of this itinerary or check out this guide to the best things to do in Reykjavik .

Alternatively, go bathing in the Blue Lagoon if you didn’t do it at the beginning of your trip, or visit some of the attractions of Reykjanes Peninsula on your way to the airport.

Another nice geothermal pool to check out is the Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik. This warm pool boasts amazing ocean views and is a great alternative to the Blue Lagoon (and a wonderful way to end your trip).

READ ALSO: One Day in Reykjavik: Detailed Itinerary

If you have more time…

One area where you could easily add a day or two extra is Iceland’s South Coast , from where you can also take a day tour to Landmannalaugar in the Icelandic Highlands. I really recommend adding a day between day 3 and day 4 in this itinerary and doing the South Coast over two days if you can squeeze it in. You’ll have more time to explore all the places mentioned in this guide, instead of just passing by. In that case, stay in Vik on day 3.

You could also spend more time in the north or northwest , visit the Westfjords , etc.

Many standard Ring Road itineraries also include a day in West Iceland , an area a bit in between Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Reykjavik. With just 10 days in Iceland and doing the entire Ring Road, we recommend Trollaskagi Peninsula (see day 7) instead of this area, but if you have a day extra, you could definitely add it here.

In that case, stay in Borgarnes town or e.g. Icelandair Hotel Hamar on day 9 of this trip. Then on day 10, visit Deildartunguhver , the largest hot spring in Europe (not for swimming), Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls , and – if you are into history and Icelandic sagas, you may want to check out the Snorrastofa museum , the medieval research institute in Reykholt.

In this area, you can also take a tour of a man-made ice cave at Langjökull glacier , and the largest lava cave in Iceland, Víðgelmir . You can visit the Vidgelmir lava cave or the Langjokull glacier separately.

TIP: Don’t miss the recently opened Krauma Geothermal Baths in Reykholt.

As you can see, there are so many nice places that you could add to your Ring Road itinerary if you have more time! But if you are visiting Iceland for the first time, have about 10 days, and want to see the musts along Iceland’s Ring Road, then this itinerary is truly one of the best ways to do that.

Iceland Ring Road Itinerary on the Map

TIP: To make your trip planning easier, I also created this map , indicating all the places mentioned in our detailed 10-day Iceland Ring Road self-drive trip itinerary.

As you can see, we gave each day a different color so that you have a better idea of where everything is located and how it all fits in this itinerary.

Further below – under the FAQ section – you can also see a map indicating the total distance and driving time for Iceland’s Ring Road.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is my suggested 10-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary. As you can see, it’s quite packed and includes not just the very best places, but also some hidden gems that will make your trip even more special.

Please note that driving the entire Ring Road in 10 days will be rushed, even in summer when the days are long and the roads are good. So if you can, plan a few days extra. But if you want to make the most of your time, this is the best way to see all the best places in Iceland that you can indeed see in about 10 days.

Below, you can find some of the frequently asked questions that we get from our readers. Check it out and – if you don’t find an answer here or in our article – feel free to leave a reply below and I’ll try to help. Alternatively, please join our Facebook group for Iceland & Scandinavia Travel – it’s a great place to meet other travelers, ask questions, and share travel experiences.

Iceland Ring Road FAQ

Iceland’s Ring Road no. 1 encircles the entire island and is about 1,320 km (820 miles) long. Driving the entire Ring Road without any stops or delays would take about 16 hours (see the map above). However, this isn’t a very realistic estimate because driving in Iceland is much slower than what Google Maps indicates, and there’s so much to see and do along the Ring Rod that you wouldn’t want to just drive by anyway.

While you can drive the entire Ring Road of Iceland in just a day or two, you need at least 7 days if you want to see just the main landmarks. Ideally, plan 10-12 days for Iceland’s Ring Road. This will allow you to see all the best places along Route 1, get a bit off the beaten path, take a tour or two, and explore some areas a bit deeper.

Yes, it is possible to see the main highlights along Iceland’s Ring Road in 7 days. It will be rushed and you won’t have time to explore deeper, but you will be able to see some of the best places and get a taste of what Iceland is about. If you only have 7 days and absolutely want to do the entire circle, we recommend this itinerary: Day 1: Arrival, Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik Day 2: South Coast to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Day 3: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the Eastfjords Day 4: Lake Myvatn area Day 5: The North Coast of Iceland Day 6: Snaefellsnes Peninsula Day 7: Reykjavik and departure

While it is usually possible to drive around the entire Ring Road in Iceland in winter, we do not recommend a self-drive trip around the entire island in the darkest and coldest months. There are just a few hours of daylight at that time of the year, the weather is very unpredictable, and snowstorms are common. Furthermore, the roads in the Eastfjords and in North Iceland often get closed in winter, disrupting your travel plans. If you want to do the Ring Road in winter, we recommend going with a local driver/ organized tour. If you are doing a self-drive trip, it’s best to stick to the South Coast. Also, be sure that you know what to expect when driving in Iceland in winter and keep your travel plans very flexible.

All these suggestions are based on our multiple trips to Iceland. And while this trip covers all the main sights along the Ring Road, you won’t find the exact same self-drive itinerary anywhere else. I hope that these additional details and our recommendations will help you plan a more memorable trip to Iceland than just using a standard copy-paste Ring Road itinerary used by most agencies and tour operators.

Have a wonderful time in Iceland!

TIP: If you are looking for more information for your trip to Iceland, practical travel tips, clothing & packing advice, etc. please check our complete travel guide to Iceland . It contains an overview of all our articles about Iceland.

READ ALSO: How Expensive is Iceland (+ How To Save Money)

More tips for your trip to Iceland:

• When to travel: Best time to visit Iceland: summer vs winter
• What to see: Best places to see in Iceland
• Airport transfers: How to get to Reykjavik city from Keflavik airport
• Packing: What to wear in Iceland in summer
• Tours: Best tours in Iceland
• Itinerary Suggestions: Iceland Itinerary Suggestions for 1 to 14 Days
• South Coast: 4 days in Iceland – best short itinerary for your first trip
• South & West itinerary: 7 days in Iceland

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Wednesday 14th of February 2024

Jurga, I found that your article is very helpful, It quite hard for me to plan my trip on Myvatn area, I can spend at least 4 nights here and I really like to stay at Husavik and take a slow time at these lovely village and also I like to take a day tour to Askja Caldera, it so much things to do, ha ha. Could you help me plan on this area? Please🙏 Thank you so much, NANTY

Sunday 18th of February 2024

Hi Nanty, please take a look at our guide to the best things to do in Myvatn for suggestions on what to see and do there. As for help with the planning, unfortunately, we really have no time to help our readers with individual itinerary advice. As much as I would like to help everyone, it's just not feasible. There are also too many options and everyone has different interests, budgets, etc. But 4 nights in that area should be enough for all the highlights, just be sure to book all tours/excursions in advance.

Wednesday 17th of January 2024

Great article. The information and effort is very much appreciated!

I'm planning a trip to Iceland, (first time) but I'm only in the researching stage. My main interest is landscape/nature photography. I have little interest in some of the more commercial tourist locations. The wilder, the quieter and the less traveled the better. I've lived in Alaska and the western US, so I'm used to the back country. It also means I've seen the northern lights countless times although it never gets old! Still... while I'd love to finally photograph them, they're not my number one priority. Finally my question(s). :-) What would you consider the best time of the year and the ideal length of time, (within reason of course) for a trip? That should at least be enough to get me started but if you know of any general areas to avoid or that are "must sees" please let me know.

Thank you again for sharing your knowledge and experience, Rick

Thursday 18th of January 2024

Hi Rick, that's really hard to answer since everyone travels with different expectations. For the best season. If you don't absolutely need to see auroras, ice caves, and wintery landscapes, then the summer months are by far the best time to visit, with endless daylight and easy travel conditions. For more in-depth info and what to expect in summer vs winter, please see this guide: Best time to visit Iceland. As for non-touristy locations, this depends. Even the busiest places can be very quiet if you are there at a less popular time. If you absolutely want to avoid the most popular spots, then skip the Golden Circle and the waterfalls of the South Coast. But remember that they are popular for a good reason. So my advice would be to visit those early in the morning or late in the evening. If traveling in the summer, the days are so long that you can easily do this. If you want to get completely off the beaten path, go deep into the highlands, but remember that traveling there comes with many challenges, such as dangerous river crossings which also require a certain type of car and experience. Easier to visit are the Eastern fjords which are also generally very quiet. The Westfjords also have some amazing places where you hardly meet anyone even in the summer. Here are a few articles you may want to check out: - Icelandic highlands with a private driver - 10-days North and West Iceland itinerary As for the ideal duration, it really depends on what you decide to do and in which season you travel. You can visit for a week or for a month - there's plenty to see and do. Whatever you decide, remember that Iceland has limited options when it comes to accommodations outside the main tourist hot spots, so booking long ahead is a must, definitely in the summer. If you plan to rent a car, also do it as soon as you know your travel dates. Good luck!

Sunday 14th of January 2024

On day 9 of your Ring Rd itinerary, you mention staying at B & B Hotel Keflavik Airport if flight leaves early next day. I clicked on your link and it took me to Booking.com. Does hotel have its own website so I can book with them directly? Or is it only available via third party? Thanks for all the info you have provided! It helps us to make better decisions.

Tuesday 16th of January 2024

Hi Val, most hotels have their own websites if you prefer to book directly and I'm sure you can find them online. We personally book all our accommodations via Booking.com and that's also what we recommend to our readers. I could write the whole article about what and why, but it's really up to you. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Friday 29th of December 2023

Hello Jurga,

For someone visiting Iceland for the first and last time, do you recommend the 10 days in Iceland Itinerary for the West, North & the Highlands OR the Complete Iceland Ring Road itinerary (Also, 10 days long)?

Thanking you in advance.

Best, Parag

Saturday 30th of December 2023

Hi Parag, it really depends on your interests and the time of the year when you travel. The Ring Road itinerary covers all the 'must sees' and is therefore a better option for first timers who want to see all the top spots. The other itinerary - as explained in that article - takes you a bit off the beaten path and is more suitable for someone who has been to Iceland before and is looking for something different for a repeat trip. You can also make a combination of the two... But if you only have ten days and you want to see all the places that made Iceland famous, then this Ring Road itinerary is the way to go. Just book well in advance, especially if traveling in the summer!

Monday 6th of November 2023

Hello. We can spend 12 days in Iceland. I really want to see the aurora. Would it be ok if we are there 28Sept-9Oct 2024? (I dont think we are fit to travel during peak winter Nov-Feb/Mar).

& can we do the Ring Road trip?

Thank you in advance

Hi Shahidah, yes, the end of September - beginning of October is a good time to see the Northern Lights. It's also not wintery yet (normally), so driving the entire Ring Road should be perfectly doable. Just keep in mind that the days are shorter and it gets darker earlier, so start your days early and you should be able to cover most sights on this itinerary.

Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: Explore the Best of Iceland in 10 Days

Written By: The Planet D

Iceland , Road Trips

Updated On: October 25, 2023

Embark on the ultimate road trip adventure with our comprehensive 10-day itinerary for driving Iceland’s famous Ring Road. Experience the rugged mountains and unique geological features that make this Nordic island nation a must-visit destination. From the iconic waterfalls and black sand beaches of South Iceland to the geothermal wonders of the North, our guide will ensure you don’t miss a thing on your journey around Iceland’s spectacular Ring Road. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable road trip through the land of fire and ice .”

Table of Contents

10-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

Driving Iceland’s Ring Road is an amazing adventure that allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations while having the luxury of following an easy route. We recommend renting a 4X4 for your trip as this circular road takes you through the rugged landscapes of the country to the top of North Iceland where conditions can change in an instant. Compare Car rental prices here . If you are not picking up your rental car at the airport – book this airport shuttle to Reykjavik.

To help you with our budget you may want to read: How Much Does a Trip to Iceland Cost

About The Ring Road Iceland

The Ring Road is Iceland’s national road Route 1. It circles nearly the entire country spanning 1,322 kilometers (821 mi). Most people drive the ring road in 7 days and you can even see a lot of the most popular ring road attractions in just a few days. But we recommend at least 10 days to see Iceland. Even then you will probably want a few more days, but this is a 10-day Iceland ring road itinerary that will take you through some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and top attractions.

Our itinerary drives around the ring road clockwise from Reykjavik where you’ll drive north some of the country’s most beautiful paces.

Important Websites

When you drive Iceland’s Ring Road, it is very important to stay up to date on the weather forecast, here is some more information to have with you for safety. Important websites to follow for Iceland Road conditions are weather forecast ,   road conditions , and from ICE -SAR for travel alerts.

If you don’t have a data plan, we suggest getting an e-sim. When we travel we use Airalo and have never had a problem. There are plenty of e-sims to choose from, but you should also make sure to get a GPS with your car as you may not have coverage in all places in Iceland.

Most of Iceland’s ring road is paved and it has two-lane traffic, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t rugged. There are some single-lane bridges and narrow passes, and weather can change quickly. We sometimes had very limited visibility. So rent a 4WD.

I remember one snow squall coming up during a four-wheel drive tour in northern Iceland where we hit some bad weather. Our driver continued driving using his GPS. (we asked him to stop) However, like Canada, Iceland’s roads are well maintained when it snows, so it is possible to explore it during the winter months as well.

The Complete Ring Road Itinerary

Welcome to Reykjavik International Airport! You have arrived in Iceland! It is time to pick up your rental car and make your way to the Northernmost capital of the World. Located in the southwest of Iceland, this city is not to be missed on an Iceland itinerary.

Reykjavik is about 45 minutes from the airport with the Blue Lagoon located in between. People often visit these famous springs on their way into the city center, or on the last day of their trip. There is more about them at the end of this post.

Day 1 – Airport to Reykjavik

Once you get to Reykjavik there are so many things to see and do. With a Viking history and a stunning Nordic setting, Reykjavik is a modern city where you can relax and plan for the days ahead.

Reykjavik Attractions

• Hallgrímskirkja: The Church of Hallgrímur is Iceland’s national church. This iconic church is one of the tallest structures in Iceland and offers an incredible view of the city from its tower.
• Harpa Concert Hall: This stunning piece of modern architecture is home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. You can take a guided tour or enjoy a concert.
• Sun Voyager: This beautiful sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason is a must-see. It represents a dreamboat and an ode to the sun. Check out the Top 5 Natural Wonders of Reykjavik
• Laugavegur: This is the main shopping street in Reykjavik, filled with boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
• Old Harbour: This area has been transformed into a lively district with restaurants, cafes, and museums.
• Reykjavik Art Museum: This museum is home to a vast collection of modern and contemporary Icelandic art.
• Read our complete Reykjavik Guide

You can go whale watching directly from Reykjavik. If you want to get the obligatory whale-watching excursion out of the way before you hit the ring road, book this tour on a luxury yacht from downtown Reykjavik.

• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Try the famous Icelandic hot dog at this popular stand.
• Seafood Grill: Reykjavik is known for its seafood, and this restaurant is a great place to try some local dishes.
• Read our Icelandic Food guide to help you know what to order.

Overnight in Reykjavik

There are plenty of accommodation options in Reykjavik, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. We have stayed at both the Hilton Reykjavik or Hotel Marina Reykjavik and they are great choices.

Approximate driving time: 50 km / 31 miles

Day 2 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Make the most of your day by getting up early for your drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive from Reykjavik to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula takes about 2 hours. The peninsula is located in west Iceland and is known for its dramatic landscapes, including mountains, lava fields, and beautiful coastline.

Late Morning to Afternoon

Explore Snæfellsjökull National Park which is home to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which is said to have mystical powers. There are also several hiking trails and beautiful viewpoints in the park.

Visit Kirkjufell This mountain is one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland and is a must-see in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There’s a waterfall nearby, Kirkjufellsfoss, which is also worth checking out.

Explore Djúpalónssandur This beautiful black sand beach is known for its dramatic landscapes and is a great spot for photography.

If you visit during the winter months, you may have the opportunity to see the Northern Lights. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a great place to view them because it has less light pollution than Reykjavik. (Seasonal, typically late September to early April). Similarly, Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers a great opportunity for stargazing due to its remote location and low light pollution.

Enjoy Icelandic cuisine at a local restaurant or café. Some places may also have live music or other events in the evening. After a long day of sightseeing, you may also want to relax at your accommodation, whether that be enjoying a good book or soaking in a hot tub if your accommodation has one.

The best town to stay in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula largely depends on your preferences, but Stykkishólmur is one of the most popular options. It is the largest town on the peninsula and offers a variety of accommodation options, restaurants, and services. It’s also known for its beautiful old houses and the Stykkishólmur Church, which offers great views of the town and surrounding area.

Other options for accommodation include Grundarfjörður (near Kirkjufell Mountain) and Hellnar or Arnarstapi . All of these towns offer a range of accommodation options, from hotels to guesthouses. Just make sure to book ahead, especially during peak season.

Where to stay in Stykkishólmur West Iceland: Hotel Fransiskus

Approximate driving time: 2 hours

Day 3 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Akureyri

On Day 3 of your Icelandic road trip, you’ll depart from the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and make your way to north Iceland to the charming town of Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest urban area. Akureyri is often referred to as “the Capital of North Iceland. This drive will take approximately five hours, but the changing scenery from the peninsula to the northern regions of Iceland will keep you captivated.

Once you arrive in Akureyri, check into your accommodation and take some time to explore this vibrant town.

A must-visit is the Akureyri Church, a stunning Lutheran church perched on a hill overlooking the town. Designed by the famous Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, this iconic building is a symbol of Akureyri. The town center is also worth exploring, with its quaint shops and cozy cafes.

Consider visiting the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, which boasts a variety of plant species from both Iceland and around the globe. Another option is the Akureyri Swimming Pool, a geothermal pool that is a hit with both locals and tourists. There are water slides

The surrounding area also offers plenty to explore, such as the stunning Eyjafjörður fjord and the Hlíðarfjall ski area during the winter months. and

For dinner, indulge in some local Icelandic cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Options abound, from traditional dishes like lamb and fish soup to more modern fare.

• Bryggjan : This is a popular spot for seafood, with a menu that features locally sourced fish and other seafood options.
• Rub 23 : A trendy restaurant known for its sushi and steaks. They offer a variety of sushi options, as well as dishes made with Icelandic lamb and other local ingredients.
• Akureyri Fish and Chips : A great spot for a casual meal, this restaurant serves delicious fish and chips made with fresh, local fish.

Afterward, you can rest up for the next day’s adventures at your chosen accommodation, be it a luxury hotel or a charming guesthouse. Read more: Best Icelandic food

Where to Stay

• Where to Stay: Hotel Akureyri
• Approximate driving time: 5 hours
• Important websites to follow for Iceland Road conditions are weather forecasts ,   road conditions , and travel alerts from ICE -SAR .

Day 4: Akureyri to Mývatn

Start your day with breakfast in Akureyri before embarking on the approximately 1-hour drive to Mývatn, a volcanic lake and surrounding area known for its unique geological features and rich birdlife. The drive from Akureyri to Mývatn is around 90 kilometers and takes you through some beautiful landscapes, including lush valleys and volcanic terrain. On the way to Mývatn make sure. to stop at the Goðafoss waterfall. Yet another beautiful waterfall in Iceland.

Upon arrival in Mývatn, take some time to explore the area’s top attractions. Visit the Mývatn Nature Baths, a geothermal lagoon where you can relax in the warm waters while enjoying the stunning surroundings. Another must-see is Dimmuborgir, a lava field known for its dramatic volcanic rock formations. If you’re interested in wildlife, be sure to check out the various birdwatching opportunities around the lake.

Optional Day Trip

If you have additional time, consider visiting the nearby town of Húsavík, known for its excellent whale-watching opportunities.

Must do:  If you are going to go whale watching in one place in Iceland, it should be Husavik. This highly rated Whale watching from Húsavík lives up to its reputation as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Explore the beautiful, Skjálfandi Bay while observing whales, dolphins, and sea birds in their natural habitat.

Must Watch: Husavik has gained a lot of popularity thanks to the Will Farrell Movie “EuroVision The Fire and Ice Saga.” available on Netflix. Its beautiful song was even nominated for an Oscar.

For dinner, consider trying some local Icelandic cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

• Daddi’s Pizza : If you have had enough of Icelandic food, this popular spot is known for its delicious pizzas
• Vogafjós Cowshed Café and Restaurant : This unique restaurant is located on a working farm and offers a range of traditional Icelandic dishes made with local ingredients, including their own homemade cheese and cured meats. The café also has a great view of the cowshed, so you can watch the cows while you eat.
• Hótel Laxá Restaurant : This hotel restaurant offers a variety of Icelandic and international dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. They also have a great view of the lake.

Then, head to your accommodation for the night. There are several options in and around Mývatn, ranging from hotels and guesthouses to camping sites. Suggested hotel in Mývatn: Fosshotel Myvatn

Approximate driving time: 1 hour

Day 5 – Mývatn to Egilsstaðir

Kick off your day with a delicious breakfast in Mývatn before setting out on the roughly 2-hour drive to Egilsstaðir, located in the Eastfjords of eastern Iceland. This approximately 180-kilometer journey will take you through a variety of landscapes, from volcanic fields to lush farmlands and rugged fjords.

En route make sure to stop at Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Dettifoss is the Niagara Falls of Iceland. (without the hotels, bars, and casinos) At 45 meters high (144 feet) and 100 meters wide (300 feet). Here you can also explore Jökulsárgljúfur National Park. Its impressive horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon houses some other impressive waterfalls as well, Selfoss, Hafragilsfoss, and Réttarfoss. If you want to chase waterfalls, you may end up spending the whole day here!

Upon arriving in Egilsstaðir, delve into the area’s natural beauty and explore some of its top attractions. A must-visit is Seydisfjordur, a charming village known for its colorful houses and vibrant arts scene. Make sure to take a walk along Rainbow Road.

Don’t miss out on the stunning Hengifoss, one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, with its impressive basalt columns and bright red clay. Another beautiful waterfall in the area is Litlanesfoss, surrounded by unique basalt columns.

If time allows, consider taking a scenic drive along the Eastfjords, where you can admire the dramatic coastline and possibly spot some seals or other wildlife. Additionally, the area around Egilsstaðir is home to several hiking trails, providing ample opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes on foot.

Savor the local flavors at one of the restaurants in Egilsstaðir or the surrounding area.

• Valaskjálf Restaurant : Located in the cultural center of Egilsstaðir, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes including Icelandic lamb, fish, and vegetarian options.
• Klausturkaffi : Situated in the Skriðuklaustur cultural heritage site, Klausturkaffi is known for its traditional Icelandic pancakes and homemade cakes.
• Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir Restaurant : This hotel restaurant offers a range of Icelandic and international dishes with a focus on local ingredients, including reindeer, Arctic char, and lamb.

Then head to your accommodation for the night. There is a range of options to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses, and camping sites. Suggested hotel: Hotel Eyvindara

Day 6: Egilsstaðir to Höfn

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast in Egilsstaðir, then embark on the approximately 3-hour drive continuing down east Iceland to Höfn, a picturesque fishing town in the southeast of Iceland. This approximately 260-kilometer journey takes you along the coast of the Eastfjords before heading inland through the mountains, providing plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs.

Upon arriving in Höfn, immerse yourself in the area’s rich maritime history by exploring the town and its harbor. One of the must-visit attractions is the Höfn Glacier Museum, where you can learn about glaciers, their impact on the landscape, and the effects of climate change.

There are plenty of things to do around this area of east Iceland. Visit Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoons to get up close and personal with the icebergs. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is the most famous and you will probably spend a lot of time here.

You can also visit the nearby Diamond Beach, where icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand, creating a stunning contrast. Another option is exploring the Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier.

If you have extra time, consider booking a guided glacier hike or an ice cave tour, both of which provide an unforgettable experience of the Vatnajökull glacier.

Indulge in some delicious local seafood for dinner; Höfn is particularly famous for its lobster. Kaffi Hornið and Pakkhús are two excellent options for sampling this delicacy.

Day 7: Höfn to Skaftafell

Wake up early in Höfn and start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the local eateries or your accommodation. After breakfast, embark on the approximately 2-hour drive to Skaftafell, located in Vatnajökull National Park. The drive covers a distance of about 140 kilometers and takes you through some of Iceland’s most stunning landscapes, with glaciers, mountains, and black sand plains filling your view.

Upon arrival in Skaftafell, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails leading to various attractions. One of the must-see spots is Svartifoss, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by black basalt columns. Another popular hike takes you to Skaftafellsjökull, a glacier tongue that extends from the Vatnajökull glacier. Don’t miss the chance to visit the visitor center, which offers exhibitions and information about the park’s natural and cultural history.

For dinner, your options might be limited within the national park, but you can find some good choices in nearby towns such as Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Kaffi Munkar is a popular spot in the area that offers a range of dishes, from soups and sandwiches to more substantial meals.

Day 8 Skaftafell to Vik

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast in Skaftafell before setting out on your journey to Vik in South Iceland. This charming village is located right at the tip of Iceland’s south coast. The drive from Skaftafell to Vik is approximately 2 hours, covering a distance of around 150 kilometers. Along the way, you will pass through stunning landscapes, including vast lava fields, dramatic cliffs, and black sand beaches. Read more: South Coast of Iceland – Top Things to See and Do

Once you arrive in Vik, take some time to explore the local attractions. A must-visit is Reynisfjara, a famous black sand beach known for its towering basalt columns and powerful waves.

Vik stands in the shadow of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and is home to the black sand beach with huge black basalt stacks standing guard. This famous cluster of Basalt Rocks may be one of Iceland’s most recognizable sights and you don’t want to miss it. 

Legend has it that this group of stone spires are actually trolls turned to stone by the sun. As they tried to pull their three-masted ship to shore, time ran out and the sun came up. According to folklore, once an Icelandic troll is caught in the sun, it turns to stone.

Another popular spot is the Dyrhólaey Peninsula, where you can admire the dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and its picturesque lighthouse. If you’re interested in history, consider visiting the Skógar Folk Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s past.

If you have extra time, consider taking a guided tour to explore the nearby Katla Geopark, which encompasses several natural wonders, including the Katla Volcano and Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Another option is to visit the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a stunning gorge located just a short drive from Vik. For those interested in bird watching, the cliffs around Dyrhólaey are home to various seabird species, including puffins.

For dinner, head to one of Vik’s local restaurants to sample some delicious Icelandic cuisine. Sudur Vik is a popular choice, offering a variety of dishes, including their famous lobster soup.

Day 9 Vik to Selfoss

Start your day with a delicious breakfast in Vik before embarking on the approximately 1.5-hour drive to Selfoss. The journey covers around 110 kilometers and takes you past picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, farmlands, and rivers.

Upon reaching Selfoss, explore the area’s top attractions. One of the must-see spots is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascading water for a unique perspective. Another popular attraction is the Skógafoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Center, where you can learn about the infamous 2010 eruption that disrupted air travel worldwide.

Continue on to Skaftafell National Park, where you can go hiking or ice climbing on Vatnajökull glacier

Insider Tip – As you drive south along Route 1 stop for coffee in Hella. This town has colorful houses lining the river bank and it is a good place to get supplies or to fill up your car at a gas station.

If you have extra time, consider taking a dip in the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal pool located in the nearby town of Fludir. Get your secret lagoon admission ticket in advance. Secret Lagoon tickets here

For dinner, head to one of Selfoss’s local restaurants to sample some traditional Icelandic cuisine. Tryum is a popular spot that offers a range of dishes, from fish and chips to lamb burgers.

Iceland Hot Dog – One thing you’ll notice whenever anyone talks about traveling to Iceland is a mention of hot dogs. They seem to be the most affordable and popular food on the Ring Road loop at gas stations. Pylsuvagninn Selfossi is a popular hot dog stand at the Ölfusá river bridge. If you are going to try a hot dog in Iceland, go for it here. We ate a lot of hot dogs at gas stations while driving in Iceland. It’s the most affordable way to travel.

Day 10: Selfoss to Reykjavik

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast in Selfoss, embark on the approximately 1-hour drive to Reykjavik, covering a distance of around 50 kilometers. This short journey takes you through some beautiful landscapes, including volcanic fields and mountains.

Another option is to explore the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that includes the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. For those interested in horse riding, several farms in the area offer tours on Icelandic horses.

A great today is to visit the nearby Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that includes the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. For those interested in art, the Reykjavik Art Museum and the Einar Jónsson Museum offer a glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant art scene.

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is located in a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates mee. This is also the site of the world’s first parliament, the Althing, established in 930 AD. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, enjoy its lakes and waterfalls, and learn about Iceland’s rich history.

The Geysir Geothermal Area is home to several geysers, including Strokkur, which erupts approximately every 5-10 minutes, sending water and steam up to 30 meters into the air. The area is also known for its hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.

Lastly, the Gullfoss waterfall is a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall that drops a total of 32 meters into a rugged canyon. The waterfall can be viewed from several different vantage points, each offering a unique perspective. This massive waterfall is a two-stage cascade plummeting 32 meters (105 feet) from the Hvítá River. Gullfoss is the most visited waterfall in Iceland and for good reason. You can walk quite close to the rushing water and really feel its power.

It is time to make your way to Reykjavik. This is a great time to take the opportunity to explore any attractions you may have missed on your first day in the city. Options include the Sun Voyager, a steel sculpture shaped like a Viking ship, and the Hallgrímskirkja, a stunning church that is one of the tallest structures in Iceland. You may also want to visit the Harpa Concert Hall, an iconic building known for its unique glass facade.

For dinner, Reykjavik offers a wide range of options, from traditional Icelandic cuisine to international dishes. The Fish Company is a popular choice, known for its delicious seafood dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, retire to your accommodation for the night. Reykjavik has various options to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals.

After dinner, check into your accommodation for the night. Reykjavik has a variety of options to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals.

Final Morning Day Trip and Fly Home

Your driving on the Ring Road holiday has come to an end. Chances are you will be returning your car rental at the airport, so before you leave, this is a great time to visit Iceland’s most popular attraction the Blue Lagoon.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is often visited on day one or the last day of an Iceland trip. This is the perfect opportunity to soothe those aching muscles in the famous hot springs. It may be the most touristy thing to do in the country, but you must experience it at least once when you visit Iceland. Read more: How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland – Is it Worth It?

If you want to really enjoy the Blue Lagoon you can stay here. Luxury hotels include:

• The  Blue Lagoon Retreat  is a five-star luxurious escape that overlooks the lagoon and stands high enough to see the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. 
• The Silica Hotel . Just a 10-minute walk from the Blue Lagoon, nestled among the lava fields this award-winning hotel is an excellent option when staying overnight at the Blue Lagoon.

How to Plan For the Ring Road in Iceland

Our trip to Iceland was with Iceland Travel and they put together an incredible Iceland road trip itinerary for us. We loved having an itinerary set up in advance with hotels pre-booked and plans made. Iceland is a popular travel destination and hotels along the Ring Road route can book up quickly, so having a tour company plan made a lot of sense all we had. to do was concentrate on driving the Ring Road and enjoying our time. Visit Iceland Travel to help with planning your trip.

Driving The Ring Road Independently

You can book a rental car and do the ring road independently . You can check car rental prices at CarRental.com . We recommend getting a 4X4 with a GPS. We drove the Ring Road in late September and drove through more than one snowstorm. We had a car go right off the road in front of us in north Iceland. They weren’t in a four-wheel drive so we had it much easier between our winter driving experience and the snow tires on our SUV.

Ring Road Tours

If you aren’t comfortable driving in Iceland, there are organized tours to Iceland that go around the ring road. You can sit back, relax, and let the professionals take you to the popular tourist attractions.

This 8-day small group tour takes you on a circle tour of Iceland. Leave Reykjavik to see many of the highlights mentioned in this ring road travel guide. From waterfalls to lava fields, in the south to the East Fjords and northern lights of the North. It covers it all. Check it out here: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.

This Circle Tour of the Ring Road is a flexible option where you can choose from 4, 5, 6 or 7 days. It takes you to the South Coast, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and waterfalls and optional tours of Borgarfjörður and Lava Caving and optional tour of the Golden Circle. Plus much more. Details here.

Where to Stay on the Ring Road

There are campgrounds along the route with plenty of availability. This is by far the most economical way to drive around Iceland’s Ring Road. But make sure you arrive at the campgrounds early. They are first come first serve and wild camping in Iceland is not allowed. So you will want to be in the campground by sunset.

Most campgrounds have toilets and showers and some have kitchens for cooking. Which is another great way to save money on an Iceland Road Trip.

We stayed at mostly Iceland Air Hotels that are all along the entire ring road route along the main road. Our stays included an amazing breakfast which saved us a lot of money. They were large and delicious so we could make it through the day with just snacks instead of a large lunch.

Best Time to Drive the Ring Road

The high season in Iceland is summer and this is the most difficult time to find accommodation. So make sure to plan in advance if you are booking from June to August. We traveled to Iceland from Mid to Late September and it was less crowded. The weather was quite unpredictable with everything from hail and rain to snow and heavy winds. We did have sunny days as well.

Remember, if you are driving in mid-summer the days are long, and chances of seeing the Northern Lights are low. If you wait until closer to autumn or go in late spring you have a better chance to see them as the sun sets earlier. And there will definitely be fewer crowds during shoulder season.

Can you Drive the Ring Road in Iceland in Winter?

You can drive the Ring Road in Winter, but you should have winter driving experience. The Ring Road operates year round. It is a two-lane road most of the way and there is winter maintenance.

However, If you visit in winter, there is more of a risk of roads being closed for a day or two, so allow extra time. Iceland does have good winter road maintenance though, so if you are used to winter driving, go for it! But be warned, when we were there in September, most people we met were terrified on the roads and said it was scary for them to drive through snow squalls. (yes, we had them in September and we had road closures too).

Being from Canada, we are used to snow squalls, but we also had a four-by-four SUV which helped a lot. So, make sure to rent an SUV with 4-wheel drive capabilities.

Tips for Driving the Ring Road

Embarking on a road trip around Iceland’s Ring Road is an exciting adventure that requires careful preparation. Here’s what you need to consider in terms of gear and preparation:

Clothing and Gear:

• Waterproof and windproof jacket.
• Layered clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.
• Waterproof and comfortable walking or hiking shoes.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Hat and gloves, especially if traveling in colder months.
• Backpack for day hikes and excursions.
• Camera or smartphone for capturing stunning landscapes.

Driving and Navigation:

• A reliable vehicle suitable for the season you’re traveling in (consider a 4×4 if you plan to explore the highlands).
• A GPS, Google Maps, and a paper map for navigation.
• Familiarize yourself with Iceland’s road rules and conditions before your trip.
• Check the weather and road conditions regularly throughout your journey.

Accommodation and Food:

• Book your accommodations in advance, especially during the peak summer months.
• Pack snacks and water for the road, as there can be long distances between towns and services.
• Consider bringing a cooler for perishable items if you plan to self-cater.

Safety and Emergency:

• Bring a first aid kit, flashlight, and any necessary personal medications.
• Ensure you have a charged phone with an Icelandic SIM card or roaming capabilities for emergencies.
• Familiarize yourself with the emergency number in Iceland (112).

Additional Tips:

• Respect the local environment and adhere to any signs or regulations in place to protect Iceland’s unique landscapes.
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly.
• Follow the speed limits
• When you come to gas stations, fill up. We make it a rule to fill when our tank is half full.
• Take your time and enjoy the journey, as the Ring Road offers countless opportunities to explore Iceland’s natural beauty.

Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: FAQ’s

How long does it take to drive the Iceland Ring Road?

For an unforgettable journey around the Ring Road, we recommend anywhere from 7 to 10 days. It will let you not only take in the best of the ring road but also let you get off the beaten track in North Iceland and in Southeast Iceland.

Can you do the Iceland Ring Road in 7 days?

You can do the Iceland Ring Road in 7 days but we would say that is the minimum time needed. You can use this itinerary and eliminate a few things if you only have a short time in Iceland.

What is the best route to take on the Ring Road in Iceland?

You can travel the Ring Road in Iceland in either direction, clockwise or counter-clockwise, as it’s a circular route. We suggest going counter-clockwise, starting from Reykjavik and heading along the South Coast first. This is because some of the most popular attractions, like the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, are located in the southern part of the island.

These are the top sites to see on the Ring Road in Iceland. It is truly one of the greatest road trips in the world. This 10-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary gives you the highlights but if you have 2 weeks, you will really be able to see it all.

So take your time to plan the perfect Iceland Road trip and make sure it includes all of these stops!

Planning Resources for Your Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

• 15 Interesting Facts About Iceland
• 30 of the Best Places To Visit In Iceland
• Iceland – Experience the Land of Fire and Ice
• What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Iceland
• Mighty Iceland Waterfalls You Have to See to Believe

The Ring Rod – Iconic Stops on an Iceland Road Tri

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

How Much Does An Iceland Trip Cost in 2024: Detailed Budget Breakdown

20 Best Things to do in Reykjavik in 2024

South Coast of Iceland: 31 Best Things to Do and See in 2024

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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Our Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

This post may contain affiliate links.

If you’re planning an Iceland road trip, chances are you’re thinking about exploring the Ring Road. It’s an epic trip, and in this post, we’re sharing everything you need to know about planning your trip.

Iceland’s Ring Road has been on our bucket lists for years, and we were so excited to finally get to experience the country this summer by driving the Ring Road!

About the Ring Road

The Ring Road, otherwise known as Route 1 (Þjóðvegur 1), circles the entire island and connects most of the inhabited sections of the country.

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For most of its 828-mile length, the Ring Road is two lanes wide with one lane going in each direction. However, there are many sections that reduce down to a single-lane bridge, requiring drivers to take turns crossing one at a time. While the Ring Road is almost entirely paved, there is still a small section in the east that remains compacted gravel. The speed limit for the vast majority of the road is 90 k/h (56 mph) on pavement and 80 k/h (50 mph) on gravel.

When is the best time to drive the Ring Road?

Spring, summer, and fall are generally considered the best times to drive the Ring Road. There is little chance of snow, the extended daylight increases visibility, and more services are open along the route. From May to September, traveling along the Ring Road should be the most pleasant.

While the Icelandic government strives to keep the Ring Road open throughout the winter, unpredictable conditions sometimes force sections to close. An unexpected road closure can mean an indefinite delay (days or even weeks) or turning back and retracing your steps. Even if the road remains open during the winter, the driving conditions can be treacherous: high winds, driving in snow, and extremely limited daylight. While it is possible, we would not suggest tackling the Ring Road from November thru April.

Which direction should you drive?

Being a circular road, you have a choice whether you want to drive clockwise or counterclockwise. Most of the Iceland Ring Road itineraries suggest you depart from Reykjavik and drive counterclockwise (essentially starting in the south). This is what we did on our trip and generally speaking, we think it makes the most sense. Here is our reasoning:

The south of Iceland is by far the most popular section for tourists. So by going from the airport, to Reykjavik, to the south, you are slowly thinning out the crowds. Once you get to the eastern and northern part of the country, crowds will be virtually non-existent. By going counterclockwise, your exposure to crowds will steadily decrease over the course of the trip.

Conversely, if you go clockwise (essentially starting in the west and heading north), there will be fewer tourists at the start of your trip, but their numbers will increase towards the end.

*The Weather Exception* While we prefer the counterclockwise direction to mitigate crowd levels, there is a strong argument to go clockwise if the weather looks dramatically better in the north. Weather in Iceland often follows a similar pattern: if the weather is bad in the south, it is usually better in the north, and vice versa.

So if you arrive in Iceland and the weather looks crummy to the south but good to the north, then why not head there first? The bad weather in the south might linger and still be there when you get down there. Or you might get lucky and have it clear out while you’re touring the north.

How long does it take to drive the Ring Road?

If the road conditions were good and you drove non-stop, you could theoretically drive the entire Ring Road in about 15 hours. Why would anyone do that? We have no idea. But it’s possible.

The reality is it will take most people much longer because there is SO MUCH to do and see along the way. Iceland is unbelievably photogenic and we were stopping the vehicle constantly to take photos. It depends on how much you want to see along the way, but we wouldn’t recommend doing the Ring Road in anything less than 6 days. We did it in 6 days and we felt it was really fast. In hindsight, we would have liked to have more time, ideally 8-10 days.

Thankfully, it was late-May and we had daylight into the late evening so we were able to fit a lot into each day. If you are visiting Iceland off-season (not in the summer), you will probably need even more time since you will have less daylight to work with.

If you only have 3-4 days in Iceland, we would encourage you to look into a shorter, more manageable route like our guide to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula , or just touring the southern coast.

Be prepared

Here are some other helpful articles to get you set up for your Ring Road adventure!

Ultimate Guide to an Iceland Camper Van Trip : Everything you need to know about road tripping in a rented camper van in Iceland. What van to pick, where to buy gas, navigating Icelandic roads: we break it all down for you.

Camping in Iceland : Everything you need to know about camping in Iceland along the Ring Road. Where you can camp, what campgrounds are open, and what are the facilities like.

What to Eat on an Iceland Road Trip : See our tips for cooking in a camper van, learn the best places to buy groceries, and get some meal inspiration for your Iceland road trip!

How to use this itinerary

While many travel sites offer detailed day-by-day itineraries, we have always found them to be too restricting. We feel the whole point of renting a camper van is to give you the freedom to explore on your own timeline, not so you can diligently retrace somebody else’s steps.

So instead, we’ve broken down our itinerary down into regional sections. This way you can see what’s out there, be informed, and follow the open road to wherever it takes you. Maybe you have only 6 days to explore or maybe you have two weeks. You can adjust this itinerary to fit your travel time.

The best place to start and end your trip is in the capital city of Reykjavik–which deserves at least a day or two of exploration! We stayed one night here at the end of our trip (here are some recommendations for where to stay in Reykjavik ) but could have easily spent another night with a full day of wandering.

Southern Iceland

Þingvellir National Park

This national park is located 40 km outside of Reykjavik and holds great geological and cultural significance for the people of Iceland.

Located within a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, Þingvellir is constantly expanding as the two plates pull away from each other. (Averaging 2 cm each year!) Evidence of this continental drift can be seen in the many cracks and fissures that are present throughout the park. To its south lies Þingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland.

Þingvellir was also the location of Iceland’s first parliament in 930 AD. This general assembly brought together the feuding chieftains who originally settled in Iceland and laid the foundation for a common cultural heritage and national identity. Today, there is a Visitor Center on-site that documents the historical significance Þingvellir has played throughout Iceland’s history.

Silfra (at Þingvellir)

Filled with crystal clear water, this fissure is caused by the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates pulling themselves apart. Meltwater from a nearby glacier is filtered through underground lava rocks before feeding into Silfra, resulting in unbelievably clear water. Scuba diving and snorkeling in Silfra have become very popular through outfits like Dive IS .

Öxarárfoss (at Þingvellir)

In terms of Iceland’s waterfalls, this one is on the small side (which is why it’s a good one to start with). It has recently been suggested that Öxarárfoss was artificially created thousands of years ago by redirecting the river Öxará into the Almannagjá gorge to provide drinking water for the early Icelandic lawmakers.

Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

This was the first “official” stop of our Ring Road trip. A short 1-mile hike from the trailhead brings you to the thermal river at Reykjadalur. Along the way, you will see a few geothermal pools and steam spouts. The bathing area is well-developed with a wooden boardwalk and small changing blinds. You can walk along the river for quite a way, but it’s advised to do your soaking near the boardwalk (as water temperatures can be scalding hot further up and down the river.)

Geysir & Strokkur

These are two large water spouts in a broader field of geothermal activity. Geysir is actually where the English word “geyser” comes from. It is the larger of the two water spouts and has been known to send water over 230 feet into the air. However, it has become fairly inactive in recent years. Strokkur is far more regular, erupting every 6-10 minutes. There are also many other smaller geysers and hot pots located in this area.

One of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland, Gullfoss is the result of the wide flowing Hvita river plummeting down into a narrowed walled canyon. It’s a multi-staged cataract that from certain angles seems to disappear into a cloud of mist.

Secret Lagoon Hot Spring

While it’s not really a secret, it’s definitely less trafficked than the far more popular Blue Lagoon. If you want to get your soak on in a quieter, more natural surrounding, than the Secret Lagoon is the spot for you.

The most voluminous waterfall in all of Iceland, Urriðafoss is not very tall but it is extremely broad. There’s ongoing talk about building a hydro-electric plant in its place, so you should check it out before it’s gone.

Seljalandsfoss + Gljúfrafoss

These two A-list waterfalls are located right next to Hamragarðar campground (where we spent our first night!).

At Seljalandsfoss there is a path that allows you to walk behind the falls. On a clear day, this a great spot to snag a photo of the sunset through the streaming veils of water. Gljúfrafoss appears to be encircled by cliffs, but the base can be accessed via wet and slippery path that puts you inside a moss-covered rock chamber. You will definitely want to bring your waterproof shoes and rain jacket when you visit these waterfalls!

Seljavellir Thermal Pool

Nestled in the mountains, Seljavellirl is the oldest heated pools in Iceland (and one of the most photographed). The hike is short and there is no entry fee, but it does come with a few caveats. The pool water is fed by natural springs, which are warm at best. So while you won’t freeze, you won’t get warm either. The bottom is covered in slippery algae that can get stirred up if there are a lot of people using the pool. Also, most accounts we’ve read are in alignment with our first-hand observations: the changing rooms are disgusting.

Perhaps one of the most iconic waterfalls in Iceland, Skógafoss has an impressive mixture of height, width, and volume. You can walk right up to the base or traverse the staircase to view it from above. It is also a very popular location for tour buses. So if you want to experience it without a lot of people, we suggest going early in the morning.

Kvernufoss waterfall

If the crowds at Skógafoss are bumming you out, you can pop just next door to the far less trafficked Kvernufoss. These falls will require a little skillful navigation over a fence (which is currently permitted by the landowner) and short scenic hike along a river. Don’t tell Skógafoss, but I think we liked Kvernufoss better.

Reynisfjara Beach & Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks

The black sand beaches and basalt columns at Reynisfjara were absolutely otherworldly. We arrived on a foggy overcast day and the world appeared to be in black and white. No color at all. Grey skies above, black sand below, and an ever-churning dark ocean. Very strange. Unfortunately, the heavy fog meant we couldn’t see the sea stacks that are just off the coast.

Eldhraun Lava Field

The largest lava field in the world, the Eldhraun field was created by one of the largest volcano eruptions in recorded history. Lasting from 1783 to 1784, the eruption was a calamitous event for the island and much of Europe. Today the resulting lava field covers 218 square miles and is roughly 40 feet deep. The volcanic rock is covered with an extremely fragile moss, which should not be stepped on.

Eastern Iceland

Vatnajökull national park.

Founded in 2008, Vatnajökull is the largest national park in Iceland and incorporates Skaftafell, Jökulsárgljúfur, and Vatnajökull glacier (Iceland’s largest glacier). There is an abundance of hiking opportunities here and one could easily spend a few days exploring it. If you are interested in doing a glacier walk, this is the spot to do it!

Known as “The Black Falls”, Svartifoss is named after the impressive black basalt columns that flank it. The hike to the falls from the trailhead is roughly 2 miles RT. There is a year-round visitor center here and a nearby campground (where we spent our second night!)

After visiting Svartifoss – if you have the time – you can continue on to Sjónarnípa. This is an incredible vista point that offers unbelievable views of the surrounding mountains and glacier fields. A round trip up to Svartifoss and then on to Sjónarnípa is about 4.5 miles and takes about 3 hours.

Skaftafell Glacier

Behind the Skaftafell Campground is where many of the glacier walks and ice cave trips depart from. Vatnajökull is by far the largest glacier in Iceland and contains many sub-glaciers such as Falljökull, Svínafellsjökull, Virkisjökull. If you are interested in doing a glacier hike or exploring one of the many ice caves , this is the area to do it!

Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon

Perhaps the most famous iceberg lagoon in Iceland, Jökulsárlón is located immediately off of Route 1, so you can’t miss it! This is where the glacier tongue breaks apart, creating a lagoon filled with mini-icebergs. The main viewing area can found right next to the bridge. However, if you want a more intimate experience, we suggest pulling off at one of the two parking lots before you reach the bridge (to the west). A ridgeline prevents you from seeing the lagoon from the road (which is why not many cars stop there), but a short hike up and over and you can see everything!

Diamond Beach

As the icebergs break apart in Jökulsárlón Lagoon, they are washed out into the ocean. Due to the way the currents flow, many of them wash back up on shore. This area is known as Diamond Beach because the ice can appear crystal clear and sparkle like diamonds. The amount of ice on Diamond Beach can vary. There was some, but not much, when we visited.

Located in the far southeastern corner of Iceland, the Stokksnes peninsula is home to some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. Behind the windswept black sand beaches and headland lagoon, rises the steep cliffs of Vestrahorn mountain. It also has historical significance as one of the first settlements in Iceland, dating back to the 9th century. There is a fee to enter the peninsula which can be paid at the cafe, located directly across from the main parking lot.

Side trips in Eastern Iceland

These are additional locations we visited, but they are not technically located right on the Ring Road.

Hengifoss & Litlanesfoss

These two impressive waterfalls are connected along a single hike. Hengifoss is the third tallest waterfall in Iceland, while Litlanesfoss features a multi-tiered drop that is rimmed with basalt columns.

Hallormsstadhaskogur Forest

Before Norse settlers arrived in Iceland, the countryside was covered in trees. But centuries of timber harvesting and sheep grazing resulted in widespread deforestation. Hallormsstadhaskogur is the largest remaining forest in Iceland.

Seyðisfjörður

This quaint little town is tucked away at the back end of a long fjord. It is considered to be one of Iceland’s most picturesque villages, due to the number of intact wooden homes. There are a few shops, street art, and nice hiking trails in the surrounding hills. There is also a campground in the middle of the town (which is where we spent our third night)

Seyðisfjarðarkirkja

The Blue Lutheran church in the town of Seyðisfjörður has become a cultural icon of Iceland due to its distinctive color. An rainbow-colored alleyway leads you to its front door.

Northeastern Iceland

Dettifoss & Selfoss

The most powerful waterfall in Europe, you can feel the immense force of Dettifoss just by looking at it. Further upriver you can find Selfoss (pictured above), which is surrounded by impressive basalt columns.

Víti (at Krafla)

This explosion crater was formed a massive eruption in the Krafla volcano called Myvatnseldar. The crater is nearly 1,000 feet in diameter and is filled with an aqua blue lake at its bottom. There is a pleasant hour-long hike that can be taken around the rim, with a more expeditious option of descending down the steep embankments to the water’s edge.

Hverir (Námafjall)

This active geothermal field hosts an array of smoking fumaroles and boiling mud pots. A pungent smell of sulfur perpetually wafts through the air, so be aware of the wind direction.

Myvatn Nature Baths

Cheaper and less crowded than the Blue Lagoon, these thermal baths are a great option if you’re feeling like a soak when exploring the North.

We had seen a lot of different waterfalls by this point, but in our opinion, Goðafoss was the most aesthetically pleasing. Configured in a semi-circle, the falls have a well-balanced mix of height, width, and flow. It also has a fascinating history. The word Goðafoss means “God falls” and when Iceland converted to Christianity in 999 AD, it is said that all the statues of the old Norse gods were thrown into this waterfall.

With a population of 18,000, Akureyri is the second-largest town in all of Iceland (after Reyjavik and its suburbs). If you feel yourself in need of a little civilization (like a coffee shop, restaurant, or bar) after exploring the hinterland of the north, then this is a great place to reconnect. If you find yourself in Akureyri on a sunny summer day, check out the outdoor botanical gardens (with free admission!), which houses nearly 7,000 species of plants, including 430 native to Iceland.

While there is a campground in the middle of town, we opted to stay at a campsite out just outside of town which was much nicer. (This where we spent the fourth night of our trip.)

Side Trip: Hvítserkur

Otherwise known as the Troll of Northwest Iceland, Hvítserkur is a 50-foot basalt rock stack that rises up from the water. The local myth claims the rock was a troll who was caught off guard by the light of the sun and subsequently turned to stone. This location is best visited at low tide during twilight when the light reflects off the relatively flat water. (We arrived at high tide during the middle of the day and were underwhelmed). *This location is a bit of a detour off the Ring Road. We’d recommend it only if you’re interested in taking photos and you think the light & tide will be good when you’re there!

Western Iceland

Deildartunguhver.

If you haven’t quite gotten your hot spring fix yet, you can stop off at Deildartunguhver – Europe’s most powerful hot spring. The spa Krauma offers guests the ability to soak in natural hot springs in a luxury spa setting.

Meaning “Lava Falls”, Hraunfoss is more accurately a collection of dozens of rivulets cascading over volcanic rock. Unlike other waterfalls we visited along the Ring Road, Hraunfoss has a more delicate aesthetic beauty.

Side trip: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

If you have an extra day or two on your trip, you should consider detouring off of the Ring Road and exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This section of the country can best be described as “mini-Iceland”. It has many of Iceland’s most notable features (waterfalls, lava fields, sea cliffs, glaciers) condensed down into a single peninsula. It was such a cool location we did an entire guide about it – check out our Snaefellsnes Peninsula itinerary here !

Final thoughts

The biggest advice we’d give to anyone thinking about traveling the Iceland Ring Road would be to remain flexible and keep an open mind. Traveling through such an incredible country, it is so easy to feel FOMO (fear of missing out) all the time. There is just so much to do that you’ll never get to all of it in a single trip. And that is perfectly okay!

Show up with a list of places you’d like to see and see where the open road takes you. Maybe you get to them all, maybe not. But it’s all the moments in between that matter the most.

Megan & Michael are the creators of Fresh Off The Grid, a blog dedicated to helping you fuel your adventures by sharing camp cooking recipes, backpacking meals, and outdoor travel guides. Their recipes and outdoor cooking expertise have been featured in Backpacker Magazine, Outside, REI Co-Op Journal, Food & Wine, and New York Times Cooking.

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We did a roadtrip on the ringroad for 12 days and we still had the feeling we missed too much… The highlands of Iceland per example, we saw it from a distance but didn’t had enough time to take it easy. I think the best way to visit Iceland is in multiple trips and always focus on another thing 😀

We can totally relate to that feeling! Even though we were putting in 18+ hour days trying to see everything, it still felt like we missed so so much. Do a lot of research ahead of time, go on multiple trips, and give yourself time to explore the little things. We definitely plan on going back.

Great itinary! Did you have a 4×4 camper?

We did not. We just had read-wheel drive. So we were not able to explore the F-roads. Next time!

Thank you so much for this super helpful guide !

Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration

Perfect Iceland Ring Road Itinerary – 7 Days Or 10 Days

Iceland’s Ring Road is an epic drive and is widely considered to be one of the top road trips in the world. This spectacular route will take you past the best of the dramatic Icelandic landscape: volcanoes, mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, glacial lagoons, black sand beaches and canyons. Read on for an Iceland Ring Road itinerary in 7 days PLUS options to extend to 10 days.

I have been to Iceland twice, for a total of three weeks. For these itineraries, I have drawn on my experience of both my Ring Road trip and my previous road trip, which focused mainly on South and South-East Iceland, the highlands and the Snaefellenes peninsula .

Table of Contents

First Things First: What Is The Ring Road?

Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1 (or Þjóðvegur 1, in Icelandic) is a circular road all the way around Iceland, connecting the main inhabited parts of the island.  The route is 1,322 km (821 miles) in length.

Highlights of the Ring Road:

• Hot springs, craters and epic waterfalls in West and North Iceland
• Fjords, mountains and quaint, remote towns in East Iceland
• The black sand beaches and glacial lagoons of South and South-East Iceland

Things To Consider When Planning An Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

Is it possible to drive iceland’s ring road in 7 days.

How long you take depends on several factors including how long you can afford to be in Iceland and the things you want to do and experience when there. If you prefer slow travel or you want to experience everything Iceland can offer, you’ll naturally take longer on the Ring Road than other travellers.

The driving time alone is around 13 hours without stopping – but of course, you have to sleep and eat!  Plus, you will want to stop and take detours from the main road on this road trip, due to the many spectacular sights along the way.

On my Iceland Ring Road trip, I had planned to complete it in 8 or 9 days, but a date-specific opportunity came up in Reykjavik (this was the opportunity to take a scenic flight in Iceland over the Fagradalsfjall eruption , so I had to take it!). This meant I had to do it sooner to make it to Reykjavik on time – so I drove the Ring Road in 7 days. I say I drove it, ha! Truthfully, my husband drove all of it, as I don’t know how to drive. He is wonderful, isn’t he?

Based on this experience, I think a week is the minimum you need and that’s why I created this Iceland Ring Road 7-day itinerary. In seven days, you will be driving a lot each day but you will be able to see the main sights in each area. Any less than seven days and I think you will be rushing and having to skip some great attractions because you won’t have time for them all.

I think, ideally, you’d take slightly more time than a week, so I have included some extra things you could add to the itinerary if you have time to do Iceland’s Ring Road in 10 days. These are based on my experiences from my previous Iceland trip.

When Should You Go To Iceland?

People visit Iceland all year round, though the peak season is June to August, which is Iceland’s summer.  Although prices are higher at this time, as I said in my post about visiting Iceland on a budget , I like Iceland in the summer because it can be good value. This is because the days are so long (Iceland has nearly 24-hour daylight in the height of summer), meaning you can see a lot more in any one day compared to the cheaper, colder, darker seasons.

I have only travelled to Iceland in summer (June for my first visit and July/August for my second) and my Iceland Ring Road itinerary assumes you’re driving in the summer months.

However, if you are really keen to see the northern lights, you’ll need to go in colder seasons when the nights are darker. But you may need a 4×4 car in the winter, due to snow on the roads, especially in the north of Iceland. You may also need to adjust the schedule to account for fewer daylight hours.

What Kind Of Accommodation Will You Stay In?

If you’re exploring Iceland on a budget, you could choose to camp to save money. Alternatively, you could stay in hostels , budget hotels or in short-term rentals .

For my first trip to Iceland, I stayed in a mixture of apartment rentals and budget hotels.  For my most recent trip, I camped in a campervan (though I have to say, I’m not a convert to van life, and I did end up booking hotel rooms last minute for three nights of my ten-day trip!). 

However, if you’re not so keen on budget accommodation, there are also more comfortable hotels and guest houses around the Ring Road.

I’ve included some recommendations of places to stay in this itinerary. But if you need more ideas, I also have a whole post dedicated to Iceland Ring Road hotels .

What Kind Of Car Will You Hire?

It is worth booking as early as you can in order to get a good price on car hire. Try  Rentalcars.com  to find a deal.

If you plan to detour off the main roads into the F roads of the highlands in central Iceland, you will need a 4×4 (and experience off-roading, as these roads can be challenging). However, you don’t need a 4×4 to drive the Ring Road, which is entirely paved (unless you go in winter when you’ll need to be prepared for driving in snow and ice).

For my first trip to Iceland, I hired a tiny car to pay as little as possible. And on my second trip, I hired a campervan so I could save money on accommodation.  Both were fine on the Ring Road and the side roads that take you to the many wonderful attractions around the Ring Road. However, my Nissan NV200 campervan struggled a little with some of the uneven and pot-holed gravel roads to both Möðrudalur and Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. Read more about the things I wish I knew before I did a camper van road trip in Iceland !

Which Direction Will You Travel The Ring Road In?

You can of course drive the Ring Road clockwise or anti-clockwise and there’s no major benefit to either option, really. 

The main reason I chose to drive it clockwise is I knew I loved South Iceland so I suspected I thought I would be saving the best for last.  And I was right!  Therefore, my suggested Iceland Ring Road itinerary is clockwise, starting in Reykjavik .

NB. If you’re arriving in Iceland by ferry from Europe, you will land in Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland , in which case, you can start your itinerary on Day 5 of my itinerary below, and end on Day 4.

The Ring Road Itself

What you need to know about the Iceland Ring Road:

• Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road in Iceland
• Despite its name, the Ring Road is not one continuous road – you will need to occasionally take turnings to stay on the Ring Road
• The Ring Road is called Route 1 , so if you are ever unsure which way to go, look out for signs saying ‘1’
• With the exception of some stretches near Reykjavik, the Ring Road is mainly single carriage roads (one lane in each direction), with no hard shoulder and often a steep ditch on each side – so the options to pull over or turn around are limited to junctions and road turnings

• The Ring Road is mainly toll-free , but there is one tunnel in north Iceland near Aykureyri (it’s called the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel) where you’ll need to pay a toll online, using your car registration number.  The cost is 1650 ISK for a car, which works out to £10 or US$11.50.  If you don’t want to pay the toll, you can take a longer detour to avoid the tunnel.
• Bridges are often single-lane , so there’s a system where the first vehicle to reach the markings in the road on either side of the bridge goes first
• Weather can change quickly, and even in summer you may experience heavy rain or low visibility – so watch your speed and use fog lights
• Speed limits will be in km, not miles (and you may find other traffic wants to go a lot faster than the speed limits of 90km/hour on open roads!)
• There are plenty of fuel stations dotted around, many of which require a debit or credit card payment in advance of actually filling up
• Whilst the Ring Road is maintained pretty well , many of the side roads you take to see attractions along the way will be gravel and pot-holed, so drive them carefully (and maybe check whether you have a spare tire, just in case!)
• Insurance may not cover you on F roads or for water damage or damage to the chassis (which can happen on the F roads or whilst crossing rivers) – so check what you’re covered for before you venture off the Ring Road onto those roads.
• As well as the attraction I mention in the itinerary below, there is so much stunning scenery along the road itself

Iceland Ring Road Itinerary In 7 Days

For my Iceland Ring Road itinerary in 7 days, I’ve assumed you will have 7 full days, ie half-day on days 1 and 8. I’ve also used Google Maps to estimate the driving distances and times, though these could vary depending on your speed and the weather etc.

Of course, this itinerary is just a suggestion or a starting point to help you plan your Icelandic road trip adventure.  Feel free to check out my other articles on Iceland for more ideas of what you might want to do there.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Iceland Ring Road itinerary 7 days – in summary :

• Day 1: arrive & drive north to Saeberg (half day)
• Day 2: Saeberg to Akureyri
• Day 3: Akureyri to Möðrudalur
• Day 4: Möðrudalur to the East Fjords
• Day 5: East Fjords to the Glacial Lakes
• Day 6: Glacial Lakes to Vik
• Day 7: Vik to Reykjavik
• Day 8: Reyjanes peninsular & fly home (half day)

Day 1: Arrive & Drive North To Saeberg

• Afternoon : Arrive at Keflavik airport & pick up your hire car
• Dinner : Grab a bite in Reykjavik, or from one of the roadside cafes in the Reykjavik suburbs
• Evening : Hit Route 1 (the Ring Road) and drive north to Saeberg . If you have time, stop at Grabrok Volcano along the way.
• Sleep : Saeberg Hostel & Campsite has budget options: a hostel and a campsite, which I stayed in. It has a wonderful view of the water and a naturally-heated outdoor hot tub for those inclined.  For more comfortable accommodation, try Tangahus guesthouse the other side of the sound.

Total driving: 220km, 2 hours 40 min.

Day 2: Saeberg To Akureyri (Via Trollaskagi)

• Morning : Make a quick visit to the quaint farm and museum at Glaumbaer , where you can explore a 17 th Century turf-roofed farm.  Alternatively, you could visit Hvitserkur , a photogenic sea stack. Then a remote detour off the Ring Road onto Route 76 around the Trollaskagi peninsula for some wild mountains, a remote lighthouse and stunning sea views.  You may well see some Icelandic Horses on the way, too, as there are a lot of them in this area.
• Lunch : Grab a late lunch at one of the small towns on Trollaskagi – Hofsus or Siglufjörður.
• Afternoon : Enjoy the epic views along the Eyjafjordur fjord and the crazy tunnel drives (some of the tunnels on Trollaskai are single-lane, meaning you have to use passing points to pass cars coming the other way).
• Dinner : Take your pick from the many restaurants of Akureyri .
• Sleep : Akureyri has options to suit most budgets including 2 campsites (one in the town and one just outside), budget hotels and higher-end hotels, such as Hotel Kea .

Total driving: 315km, 4 hours.

Day 3: Akureyri To Möðrudalur

• Morning : Leave Akureyri early, heading to Mývatn , taking the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel (don’t forget to pay the toll online!) and stopping at Goðafoss waterfall on the way. Work up an appetite by doing the short hike up the Hverfjall crater.
• Lunch : Grab some hearty Plokkfiskur (creamy fish & potato stew) at Gamli Bærinn restaurant, 10 mins from the crater.
• Afternoon : Wander the fumaroles and boiling mud pots at Hverir geothermal area, then drive out to a picturesque turquoise crater lake called Viti .  Finally, drive out to the exhilarating Dettifoss , the 2 nd most powerful waterfall in Europe. It was also the setting for the opening sequence in the movie, Prometheus.
• Dinner : After Dettifoss, drive to Möðrudalur farm, where there’s a great restaurant, with lots of traditional Icelandic dishes.
• Sleep : Möðrudalur has rooms in a guest house and also a campsite. It’s a stunning location, surrounded by volcanoes. There’s a friendly goat that wanders around, and when I was there, two arctic fox cubs were playing in the grounds!

Total driving: 316km, 3 hours 15 mins.

For more detailed information and inspiration on what to do on days 1-3, check out my article on the Top Things to do in North Iceland .

Day 4: Möðrudalur To The East Fjords

• Morning : If you feel energetic, hike to the Instagram-famous Stuðlagil Canyon. Then, stop briefly at Rjúkandi waterfall and/or take a dip in Vök thermal pools .
• Lunch : Grab a bite in Egilsstaðir .
• Afternoon : Take a detour off Route 1 over the Fjarðarheiði mountain pass on Route 93 and down the scenic ‘Walter Mitty’ road into the quaint town of Seyðisfjörður in the East Fjords. Stop for photos at the Gufu waterfall along the way (or the way back).
• Dinner : Fáskrúðsfjörður or one of the other small fjord towns along the coastal stretch of Route 1.
• Sleep : If camping or looking for a room in a guest house, I can recommend Fossardalur , which is surrounded by stunning craggy mountains.  For a hotel, try the nearby Hotel Framtid .

Total driving: 341km, 4 hours 50 mins.

Day 5: East Fjords To The Glacial Lakes

• Morning : Continue on Route 1 south, hugging the craggy coastline, and stopping at Lækjavik and Hvalnes Nature Reserve , among the first black sand beaches, for which South & South-East Iceland is famous. The gem, though, is Vestrahorn Mountain, a spectacularly steep mountain right on the coast, surrounded by black sand beaches.
• Lunch : There are lots of options for good food in the town of Höfn , including burgers at ÚPS and langoustine tails at Pakkhus.
• Afternoon : From Höfn, you’ll see the glaciers of Vatnajökull national park in the distance. Head towards these, starting with the biggest and the most famous glacial lagoon, Jökulsárlón . Right next to it is the Diamond Beach, where blue ice chunks wash up on the black sand. For a quieter, but even more special, experience, visit the less-visited but stunning lagoon Fjallsárlón .
• Dinner : There’s great food available at the Fosshotel Glacial Lagoon , very close to Fjallsárlón.
• Sleep : For a budget hotel, the Hof Adventure Hotel is basic but fine and for something more comfortable, I stayed at the Fosshotel Glacial Lagoon recently, and it was great – it was a very welcome break from sleeping in the campervan!

Total driving: 233km, 2 hours 15 mins.

For more detailed information and inspiration on what to do on days 4-5, check out my article on Things to Do in East Iceland .

Day 6: Glacial Lakes To Vik

• Morning : Hike to Svínafellsjökull glacier or take one of the other short hikes at Skaftafell . Alternatively, you could go glacier hiking on Vatnajökull!
• Lunch : Foss á Síðu has amazingly beautiful waterfall visible from the Ring Road. Across the road from it is a great place to stop for a simple lunch, Hamrafoss Cafe .
• Afternoon : Leave the Ring Road briefly to visit a spectacular canyon called Fjaðrárgljúfur .  Take the short walk up to the top, then drive back to the Ring Road to head south to Vík , one of the most popular destinations in Iceland, due to its proximity to the famous black sand beach. Take an evening walk on the beach to see the legendary sea stacks.
• Dinner : There are lots of options in Vík, including Suður-Vík, but they can get busy, so you may have to wait for a table (or reserve one ahead of time).
• Sleep : Vík has a campsite in the town itself, plus plenty of hotels, including Hotel Vík . It is worth booking ahead here, as it is so popular.

Total driving: 170km, 2 hours 10 mins.

Day 7: Vik To Reykjavik

• Morning : Leave Vik early to get to Reynisfjara before the crowds arrive, and follow this up with a hike up to the top of Dyrhólaey for a view of puffins and three epic black sand beaches . Then head West to Skógafoss , arguably one of the most striking waterfalls in Iceland.
• Lunch : The Fosshotel at Skógafoss has a great restaurant right next to the waterfall.
• Afternoon : if you have time, you could hike out to the plane crash at Sólheimasandur. It is definitely worth a stop at Seljalandsfoss , a waterfall you can walk behind. Then hit the road to get back to Reykjavik .
• Dinner : grab a bite at Selfoss, en route, or when you arrive in Reykjavik. Reykjavik Fish have restaurants at a couple of locations in the capital.
• Sleep : There’s a large campsite in Reykjavik, plus plenty of budget options (hotels and Airbnb studios).  I stayed one night in the Skuggi hotel , which was great!

Total driving: 215km, 3 hours 15 mins.

For more inspiration and detailed information on what to do during days 5-7, check out my article on 15 Spectacular Things To Do In South Iceland .

Day 8: Reykjanes Peninsula & Fly Home

• Morning : follow my self-guided walking tour of Reykjavik or hike to see the eruption site at Fagradalsfjall or visit in the Blue Lagoon . After a jam-packed week on the road, you might appreciate a soak in some hot water!
• Lunch : enjoy the traditional fishing vibes at Café Bryggjan in Grindavík.
• Afternoon : fly home!

Total driving: 92km, 1 hour 30 mins.

Iceland Ring Road Itinerary In 10 Days

If you can spare more time to drive the Ring Road, that’s great!  Here are some suggestions for what else you could add to the Iceland Ring Road itinerary above if you can spend extra days up to 10 days in total.

Options To Fill An Additional 3 Days In Iceland

Tour of the highlands.

Visit the wild highlands of central Iceland , where you can explore remote craters, canyons and mountains on a super jeep tour to Landmannalaugar in the highlands. These seriously impressive cars with huge wheels make easy business of the uneven, unpaved F roads and river crossings of the highlands.  You could do this in an extra day after Day 7 in the 7-day itinerary, departing from Reykjavik.

• Additional time needed: 1 day.

For more inspiration about exploring the highlands, read my review of my Iceland super jeep tour .

Whale-Watching

The waters of Iceland are rich with marine life, and in summer, there’s a good chance of seeing Minke whales, Humpback whales as well as dolphins.  Husavik in the north of Iceland is most famous for whale-watching , and you could fit this in between days 2 and 3 in the 7-day itinerary above.  Alternatively, take a whale- watching tour from Reykjavik followed by a walking tour of the city at the beginning or end of your Ring Road trip.

• Additional time needed: half a day.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

The Snaefellsnes peninsula is often described as ‘Iceland in miniature’ because it has a bit of everything you expect from Iceland: mountains, volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls and black beaches. There are lots of things to do in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula , but it can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik, so you could add it to your 7-day Ring Road itinerary at the beginning or end.

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a popular collection of sites including Þingvellir National Park , one of the sites where you can see the faultline between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. And if you are adventurous and don’t mind the idea of swimming in shockingly cold clear water to see the faultline, check this Silfra snorkelling review .

There’s also Geysir, where you can see the original hot geyser for which it is named, and Gullfoss, a huge and powerful waterfall. The Golden Circle can easily be done in a half-day trip from Reykjavik , either at the beginning or end of the 7-day itinerary above.  

Scenic Flight Over Iceland

If you have time in your Iceland Ring Road itinerary and your budget can stretch to it, it is absolutely breathtaking to take a scenic or photography flight over Iceland. Iceland’s landscape is stunning from any vantage point, but some features are best witnessed from the air!

You can see more of the photographs I took during my photography flight in this photo tour of Iceland from the air .

Explore the remote and wild Westfjords area – a rugged place, not visited as often as the rest of Iceland, but home to stunning wildlife including arctic foxes, puffins and humpback whales. Check out this 3-day itinerary for the Westfjords of Iceland .

• Additional time needed: 2-3 days at least.

MAP: Iceland Ring Road Itinerary – 7 Days Or 10 Days

Here’s a map showing the attractions I suggest in this 7-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary, plus the additional activities if you can spend up to ten days on the Ring Road.

How to Use This Map:  Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers (places to sleep, things to do and additional options for a 10-day itinerary). If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.   If you click the star next to the title of the map, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

The Last Word

Enjoy your Iceland Ring Road trip! I hope you find this Iceland Ring Road itinerary helpful. Again, if you need more ideas about where to stay, check out my guide to the best Iceland Ring Road hotels .

And before you go, check out my guide to exploring Iceland without breaking the bank .

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

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8 thoughts on “perfect iceland ring road itinerary – 7 days or 10 days”.

Hi Martha, I really love your detailed itinerary of where to eat lunch/supper, what to do on the ring road and how to get around for the trip. I’ve always wanted to go to Iceland, your post just confirmed that 🙂

Thanks so much for your feedback! I’m glad you like the itinerary and I hope you make it to Iceland one day – it is really special 🙂

This is a great guide to the Iceland Ring Road – it looks incredible! We’ve never visited the island buy definitely want to go. We will have to bookmark this blog for when we get the trip booked in 😊

Thank you! I hope you make it to Iceland – its a really special place, particularly if you love wild, spectacular landscapes!

Heading to Iceland in August- This was VERY helpful- Thank you!

Hi Cynthia, I’m so glad this is helpful and I hope you have a wonderful time in Iceland this summer! It’s truly one of my favourite places on the planet (so far)

We are visiting in August and this route is amazing. Thank you. Do you recommend booking ahead for places to stay?

Thanks for your encouraging feedback! If you’re planning to stay in hotel, yes, I recommend booking in advance, as Iceland does get busy in summer. For campsites, I didn’t booked ahead and was fine

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Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: An Efficient 10-day Roadtrip for 2024

Welcome to my travel guide to exploring Iceland in 10 days! There’s a lot to share on this topic and I couldn’t possibly fit it all into a single post, but you can consider this Iceland itinerary to be a solid basis from which to start crafting your own road trip around Iceland’s Ring Road.

To say that Iceland exceded my expectations would be an understatement. It pretty much got to the point where I was exhausted from looking at all the gorgeous and diverse landscapes as we drove the Ring Road, a highway that forms a complete loop around the country.

You will not be disappointed when you visit this country, but it’s also important to be mindful that tourism has exploded in Iceland and its roads and infrastructure are not necessarily intended for the volume of visitors it receives every year. For this reason, we all have to do our part to travel as sustainably as possible and treat these precious natural sights with respect 😄

Let’s get started!

P.S. Will you be visiting Iceland this Winter? You’ll find my post on Iceland Winter activities useful! It’s list of awesome things to do in Iceland in Winter, a winter packing list, and tips for driving safely on Winter roads in Iceland.

Iceland in Winter is totally unique. Whether it's ice caves, northern lights, hiking on a glacier, or seeing wild orcas, you'll love these Iceland winter activities. Learn about Iceland's winter weather, what to wear in Iceland in Winter, and Iceland winter safety tips.

Iceland Itinerary: 10-Day Ring Road Travel Guide

Each section has its own map including driving instructions, where to stay, and special sights to see along the way. We went around Iceland counter-clockwise, but you can also just as well go clockwise (it’s simply less typical to do).

• Reykjanes Peninsula (Keflavík → Reykjavik)
• The Golden Circle (Reykjavik → Hella)
• Iceland’s South Coast (Hella)
• Black Sand Beaches (Hella → Skaftafell)
• Glaciers (Skaftafell → Höfn)
• From the East Fjords to North Iceland (Höfn → Mývatn)
• Explore Mývatn and the Northeast (Mývatn → Akureyri)
• From Northwest Iceland to the Snæfellsnes peninsula (Akureyri → Snæfellsnes)
• Finish the Snæfellsnes peninsula and head to Reykjavik (Snæfellsnes → Reykjavik)
• Depart from Reykjavik (Reykjavik → Home)

Duration 10 Days Dates visited Feb 23 - Mar 4 Recommended Accommodation in Iceland Honestly I got really lucky with my hotel selection in Iceland. Basically everywhere I stayed ended up being great, except the container hotel in Skaftafell (pro-tip: container hotels sound cool but are just expensive boxes with marginal food!). Besides that, here are the places personally stayed in Iceland and enjoyed the most.

• Hotel Ranga ($$$) – Hella (Southwest) If you’re going to treat yourself, Hotel Ranga is the place to do it . It’s a super convenient location to base yourself at while you explore both the Golden Circle and Iceland’s South Coast. I bought our stay here as part of my boyfriend’s 30th birthday gift 😏 It’s a bit of a splurge but there’s no reason not to treat yourself, you’re in Iceland anyways! There are three jacuzzis, a Northern Lights wakeup list, an amazing on-site restaurant, and even mimosas included in the complementary breakfast 😉
• River Hotel ($$) – Hella (Southwest) A more budget-friendly alternative to Hotel Ranga, you still get a jacuzzi and a view over the river. Unlike Ranga, this hotel doesn’t have its own restaurant (they’ll organize for you if you have a group of 10+ people) so you’re left with Hella’s 4 restaurants as dining options. Super friendly staff, they brought us towels to keep our ears warm as we sat in the jacuzzi despite gale-force winds!
• Guesthouse Dimmuborgir ($$) – Mývatn (Northeast) Here you can stay in the cutest individual guesthouses, complete with roofs lined with Christmas lights and a view over the Mývatn lake. Many come with kitchens, so there’s another opportunity to cook while you’re in Iceland.

There are many factors that going into deciding where to stay in Iceland and how to pick accommodation. For more details on this, check out my in-depth guide on where to stay in Iceland what to consider when choosing a hotel. This is especially important when traveling in Winter conditions.

If you're planning a road trip around Iceland, these are the best hotels and accommodation in Iceland near the Ring Road. Plus, tips for picking your hotel in Iceland, the best ideas on where to stay in Iceland, and what to avoid!

Before you go You don’t need a bunch of special equipment to enjoy this country, but I found two items particularly helpful during my trip given the particular conditions of Iceland:

• Get some crampons (spikes for your boots) – If visiting Iceland in winter, I strongly advise you to buy a pair of crampons before you go. Walking around without them can be downright dangerous. They’re also way cheaper to buy before arriving in Iceland. I bought these crampons and I could’ve saved about $20 (and a lot of falling on my butt) if I had bought them before arriving in Iceland. I also missed hiking all the way to a waterfall because it was too dangerous without crampons 😞
• Get an offline-friendly travel guide – We also extensively used this Iceland travel guide . Wifi and cellular data are NOT a given in Iceland. There is a lot of no-man’s land where you will want offline information about smaller towns. For this, an offline-friendly guidebook is essential! Also be sure to download offline maps for Iceland, but be aware you may lose your signal.

Handy websites Get familiar with Vedur.is the Icelandic weather service. You’ll need it to travel safely, and for the aurora forecast if you’re visiting in Winter and want to see the northern lights.

♦ ♦ ♦ A must-see | ♦ ♦ Liked it | ♦ Point of Interest

1. Reykjanes Peninsula (Keflavík → Reykjavik)

Welcome to Iceland! It’s time to pick up your car and hit the road. Before settling down for the night in Reykjavik, take a drive around the nearby Reykjanes Peninsula .

Things to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula

• Reykjanesviti ♦ – See your first Icelandic lighthouse! This is also Iceland’s oldest lighthouse. Just down the road is also your first chance to experience Iceland’s geothermal fields.
• Krýsuvík and Seltun ♦♦ – A larger area for geothermal activity, where you can walk across bubbling mud pits by way of wooden pathways.
• Blue Lagoon – I didn’t enter the Blue Lagoon because we didn’t book early enough. If that happens to you too, don’t fear, there are more options to take a dip later down the road!
• Buy an Icelandic sweater – Handknit sweaters will run you around $200 or more, but are also sure to keep you warm with thick Icelandic wool!
• Spend the evening in Reykjavik – Check out Reykjavik’s city center and pick a spot for dinner. We ate our very first meal at Icelandic Fish & Chips , which was delicious but very touristy. That said, Reykjavik’s city center is about 90% tourists so it could very well be like that in just about any restaurant 😜
• Explore the "Volcano Garden" in a 4x4 Jeep – Even if you aren’t renting a car, you can still explore this area as part of a guided tour from the airport directly or from Reykjavik. This particular tour also includes a full education about volcanos, which is the key element that makes Iceland’s landscape so fascinating.

2. The Golden Circle (Reykjavik → Hella)

This trio of sights is easily the most popular in Iceland, and your surest bet to be battling other tourists – that is, unless you get lucky like us and a “no travel” storm begins brewing the morning before you go out. Practically no one was on the road and we had everywhere essentially to ourselves! Now, you might not get as lucky unlucky as us. So your best bet is just to join the crowds and take your time exploring the area. One day is plenty of time to see the best of the Golden Circle.

Things to do on the Golden Circle

• Þingvellir National Park ♦♦ – Þingvellir is famously the site of the oldest parliament in the world. Here you’ll find a quaint church and summer houses, a small river, waterfall, and wooden bridges connecting paths throughout the park. This is also the place where you can famously go snorkeling between tectonic plates at the Silfra Fissure.
• Strokkur Geysir ♦♦ – So, somehow we didn’t know until getting there, that the original Geysir actually closed up after an earthquake a few years back. Now you can see its smaller counterpart, which still gets big enough to drench you if you stand downwind!
• Gullfoss ♦♦♦ – Your first proper waterfall!! Note that there are two ways to view the waterfall, one from above (where there is a giftshop) and another parking lot below.
• Kerid Crater – Sadly we couldn’t visit this Krater because of the intense storm that kicked in during the afternoon.

TIP – If you aren’t renting a car, you can see all the highlights of the Golden Circle mentioned above on this particular small-group tour . Whether you drive yourself or not, there will still be locations with massive parking lots full of huuuuge tour busses. At the very least you don’t need to ride with them, and the cost between a small group and a large group is not very much (especially in terms of “Iceland prices!").

Stay: Hotel Ranga in Hella

If you’re going to treat yourself, Hotel Ranga is the place to do it. Beautiful rustic cabin-style rooms, three separate jacuzzis from which you can watch the Northern Lights, and a gourmet restaurant (can you say, reindeer carpaccio?!). I bought our stay here as part of my boyfriend’s 30th birthday gift, which was our trip to Iceland. Extravagant but 💯 worth it.

We wanted to stay two nights at Hotel Ranga but weren’t able to owing to how limited the space is. If you’re looking for a night or two of luxury, definitely check the availability for Ranga sooner rather than later!

Check availability for Hotel Ranga

3. Iceland’s South Coast (Hella)

Today’s theme is water . We’ll meet two of Iceland’s best-known waterfalls, plus a hidden natural swimming pool just out of sight in the mountains along the Ring Road.

Driving up to our first stop, Seljalandfoss , from the West is awesome because you can already see the waterfall’s narrow stream jutting out from the side of an immense mountain as you approach. Coupled with the morning sunshine, it looks like a scene from a fantasy movie.

Next to Seljalandfoss are several other smaller waterfalls, but 90% of the people visiting never seem to take the short walk. In one waterfall, you can completely walk inside the cave where it’s located, just make sure you’ve got your wellies! You might also remember Seljalandfoss as a place where you can also walk behind the waterfall, but it does require being waterproofed from head to toe!

Next, get ready for a small hike to Seljavallalaug Zwembad . This natural pool (which literally just pipes in water from a nearby hotspring) is not that warm in the winter, but absolutely an adventure in and of itself. It’s pretty easy to find – you drive to Seljavellir , park your car, and soon find yourself on a path.

My number one tip: stay close to the river. It’s easier to cross the river where it’s wide and shallow, rather than where the water is running faster (I share this from firsthand experience: I fell in trying to use the rocks as a small bridge. No-worky).

After taking a dip, hop back in the car and drive a few miles down the road to Skogafoss , of the most recognizable waterfalls in the whole island! You can get essentially as close to the waterfall as you want, just be prepared to get wet!

Places to see on Iceland’s South Coast

• Seljalandfoss ♦♦♦ – You can also go behind this waterfall, but be prepared to get drenched! Don’t miss the other waterfalls along the mountain.
• Seljavallalaug Zwembad ♦♦ – Bring waterproof shoes for this hike, and you’ll be rewarded with a very cool natural bath surrounded by mountains.
• Skogafoss ♦♦♦ – We visited Skogafoss twice, once during a small snowstorm and once during sunshine. It’s amazing how different it looks depending on the weather!

4. Black Sand Beaches (Hella → Skaftafell)

Black sand beaches were one of the coolest things I was looking forward to seeing when I came to Iceland, and they didn’t disappoint. There are so many unique vantage points from which you can see stark contrast of the white foamy sea on ebony sand. Here are some of the best places to see Iceland’s black beaches.

• Dyrholaey Arch ♦♦♦ – Even though the next spot on this list is better known, the area you reach after turning onto the road to Dyrholaey has some of the best views. There’s a lower parking lot, which offers great views, and a steep and trecherous gravel road that leads you to even better vistas (plus this lighthouse!).
• Reynisfjara ♦ – I’ve got a confession: the basalt columns you find at this location are actually kind of tiny! There are so many tourists here, even in the dead of winter, that it’s not somewhere you’re going to want to spend a lot of time (unless of course you show up first thing in the morning and beat the crowds).
• Sólheimasandur Plane Crash ♦ – The walk to this plane takes about 45 minutes each way. It’s extremely easy to find (there’s a wide path lined with reflective markers every 50 meters), just make sure the weather is going to cooperate on your walk!
• Fjaðrárgljúfur (Moss Canyon) ♦ – Covered in snow, the Moss Canyon leaves a lot to be desired (plus the road can be very icy in winter!). Minus the snow, there are a bunch of hiking trails in and above the canyon. I’d love to come back here when it’s green and beautiful, but I wouldn’t recommend the detour in Winter.

UPDATE – Apparently Moss Canyon was closed owing to hordes of visitors after Justin Bieber shot a music video there. I am not joking. It was scheduled to re-open in June 2019 according to this report but I do not know if that went according to schedule.

5. Glaciers (Skaftafell → Höfn)

If there’s anything that makes traveling Iceland in Winter a challenge, it has to be the unpredictable weather. It’s not that it’s obscenely cold, but that the weather can completely derail your plans for the day with little-to-no notice.

What you need to know about booking a glacier tour

• They’re very prone to be canceled due to weather. Booking another tour last minute may be possible! We had to do that when our original tour company canceled due to wind concerns.
• You can only go inside the ice caves during Winter , as they’re flooded the rest of the year! Check in advance if they will be open while you are visiting. You can still hike on glaciers during the Summer though.
• Try to visit less popular ice caves for a more intimate experience . In our experience, there are loads of tour groups coming to the same cave at the same time. If possible, opt for an ice cave besides Crystal Cave. This particular ice cave tour lasts 6 hours and visits more remote caves than the large group tours.

Where to experience glaciers and ice caves in Iceland

• Svartifoss ♦♦ – In winter, I daresay Svartifoss isn’t accessible without crampons! A 2km hike that’s about half uphill, if you’re going in the winter you’re going to want the extra security of spikes under your shoes. From nearby you can also hike to see a great view over the glacier!
• Skaftafell ♦♦ – This is one of the most popular places to actually hike on the glaciers. It’s really important to book in advance because, believe it or not, LOADS of people visit Iceland in Winter and want to do the exact same thing. You can either take a 3-hour glacier hike or a 5-hour glacier hike .
• Ice Cave tour ♦♦ – Some companies operate on different glaciers and go to different caves, so you can get a more personal experience than if you go in a large group tour.
• Jökulsárlón ♦♦ – Glacier Lagoon and the accompanying Diamond Beach is where chunks of glacier float out to sea, year-round. This beach is a very popular starting point for a number of ice cave tours.

Stay: Guesthouse Hafnarnes

Höfn ended up being one of my favorite small towns in Iceland, and an important component of this was definitely seeing the Northern Lights for the first time from Guesthouse Hafnarnes . There were intense, blistering cold winds which prevented us from taking photos without a bunch of blur from the wind shaking the tripod. Luckily, we could even see the northern lights from inside the guesthouse.

Eat: Pakkhús

It is amazing what five days in Iceland will do to your sense of what is expensive and what is a bargain. Case in point: we got a recommendation from the host at the guesthouse that Pakkhús is a great place to eat for dinner. The special of the day was $50 for a three course meal – and we thought to ourselves, “Wow, that’s a good deal! Someone has to get it.” In my normal, non-Iceland life I would never spend $50 on a single meal. But in this country, it was a really good deal and in fact, the best meal of the entire trip.

You can try Icelandic lobster here “on a budget” in the form of lobster soup for $18. It sounds insane, but you will not be as offended by this price by the time you get here 😜

6. From the East Fjords to North Iceland (Höfn → Mývatn)

Today is a long day of driving, but easily one of the most scenic, culminating in Europe’s most deadly waterfall just before nightfall. So get yourself some road snacks and let’s start this beautiful drive!

One thing I noticed about this drive along Iceland’s east coast was that the climate changed dramatically from the south. There, we experienced a ton of snow and storms, but on the east we had clear blue skies and saw mostly moss and exposed rock. There are more black beaches, and the east is dotted with small industrial towns where you can pull off to visit the general store or get gas at an unmanned gas station.

My top tip for today would be make sure you have a good playlist! It’s the longest day of driving, and you’ll spend most of your time looking at beautiful mountainscapes from the car.

Places to see in East Iceland

• Gorgeous drive along the Eastern Fjords ♦♦♦ – This long and windy road will keep you close to the sea. Keep an eye out for possible road closures in Winter, as you may need to improvise and take a slight detour off the Ring Road.
• Egilsstaðir ♦ – The only “major city” in East Iceland, here you can stock up at the grocery store, get gas, and even buy some crampons at a local outdoors shop (bear in mind: winter hours mean they open at 3pm).
• Seyðisfjörður ♦♦ – You have to take a mountain pass from Egilsstaðir to access Seyðisfjörður, but if weather permits it’s worth it to visit this adorable harbor town. There’s a weekly ship that heads to the Faraoe Islands and then on to Denmark from here, but the main attraction has to be one of Iceland’s prettiest, tiniest churches. Coming out of town, you can also pull off to see a small waterfall, naturally.
• Dettifoss ♦♦♦ – Dettifoss can be accessed from two different directions, from the east and from the west. On the East, you’ll meet an unpaved road which may be closed in Winter (it was for us). This side let’s you get right to the edge of Dettifoss, which is amazing for photos. The road on the West is newer, paved, and you only have to walk for about 20 minutes to reach the waterfall along a paved path. If you have the time, it’s probably worth it to view Dettifoss from both sides.
• Selfoss ♦♦♦ – While Dettifoss is more powerful, Selfoss is definitely the prettier waterfall. The distance markers are a bit misleading, as Selfoss is a quick walk from the car park and will be your last stop of the day.

Stay: Dimmuborgir Guesthouse

From the pair of waterfalls, you’ll continue to Mývatn , which you’ll likely only see by night today. Right on the East Coast of the lake you’ll find the Guesthouse Dimmuborgir , which is basically a series of cute cabins outfitted with kitchens and either a lake view or a crater view. It’s also a great location to start the next day exploring the lake area.

7. Explore Mývatn and the Northeast (Mývatn → Akureyri)

Mývatn has to be one of the most alien areas of Iceland that you can encounter from the Ring Road. The landscape largely comprises lava rock, and the craters especially make it feel like you’re on another planet. In this area you’ll also find a less commercialized alternative to the Blue Lagoon, which is definitely worth a visit.

Things to do around Mývatn and North Iceland

• Dimmuborgir ♦ – These lava formations were supposedly home to the “Yule Lads”, a gang of trolls who lived in these formations. It’s said that the area looks like an entire city formed out of lava rocks, but it’s hard to see it when it’s covered in snow. I bet this place is more interesting once the snow melts.
• Námafjall Hverir ♦♦ – If you’ve been to geothermal areas elsewhere on this trip, you should still visit this one – it’s bigger and more impressive than the others, and you can get even closer to some of the springs and bubbling pits.
• Mývatn Nature Baths ♦♦ – A much less expensive alternative to the Blue Lagoon, here you can experience the Icelandic tradition of naked bathing and getting into ultra hot water. In the winter it’s hard to see the surrounding landscape because of the steam coming off of the water, but that also makes it even more interesting to explore.
• Krafla Power Plant ♦ – Iceland is a leader in producing the energy consumed in the country using geothermal means, and this powerplant is just one that harnesses nature to provide power to homes in Iceland. In the Spring you can take a tour of the plant, but in the mean time you can still drive up to the plant and see it at work.
• Skútustaðagígar ♦ – You can walk around the rim of some of these craters, which is definitely a unique experience. You’ll encounter these craters when doing a loop around Myvatn, you basically can’t miss them from the car window!
• Góðafoss ♦♦♦ – Take it in because Góðafoss is the last proper waterfall we’re going to encounter in Iceland! Luckily it’s very beautiful, and extremely easy to access from the Ring Road. You can basically park next to the waterfall, and it can be accessed by foot from both sides by a bridge.

Stay: Iceland Air Hotel Akureyri

Tonight you’ll arrive in the second largest city in Iceland, Akureyri . Compared to all the small towns we’ve seen lakely, Akureyri feels pretty poppin’. We won’t do any sight-seeing here, just walk around the city in the evening, a quick look at the church (which was designed by the same architect as the Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavik), and of course: dinner. There are also a bunch of souvineer shops in Akureyri if you’re still missing a postcard or viking helmet 😉

There are more choices for a hotel in Akureyri than almost anywhere else on this list, but Iceland Air Akureyri has a great location you can use to walk anywhere in the center of town, including past the church. Enjoy the feeling of civilization before we head back out into the country tomorrow!

8. From Northwest Iceland to the Snæfellsnes peninsula (Akureyri → Snæfellsnes)

Today also involves a lot of driving (I know, I’m saying that a lot: but we are on a road trip!) but it’s not as scenic as the one along the East Fjords. That said, there are still a number of points of interest you can use to punctuate the day, such as stopping at the turf houses in Glaumbaer or walking down to the Hvitserkur, a rock in the sea that looks like a rhino.

Towards the end of the day, we’re going to meet the most photographed mountain in Iceland, Kirkjufell (Church Mountain), as well as one of the most famous churches, Búðakirkja (Black Church). Both can be visited again the next day, but today is the day we can take in both at sunset!

Places to see in Northwest Iceland

• Hvitserkur ♦♦ – On the detour up to this rhino-shaped rock formation, you’ll do a tour around a peninsula which gives you the best possible view of the West Fjords you’ll get on this trip! Hvitserkur is relatively small, but if you plan it right you can come during low tide to get a closer photo.
• Turf houses in Glaumbaer ♦♦♦ – Come here to see some preserved turf houses, a short detour from the Ring Road. There’s also a museum, but the hours in Winter are irregular, and you can visit the turf houses and a very sweet neighboring church at no cost.
• Go inland (during Summer) for hiking – Iceland has so-called F-roads, which go deep in the heart of the country. In the winter it’s not possible to access the interior (even with four-wheel drive!) but in the Summer you can drive inland for hiking in Kerlingarfjöll and see incredible rust-colored hills.

Places to see on the Snæfellsnes peninsula

• Kirkjufell ♦♦♦ – Bring an ultra-wide angle lens to take that iconic shot of Kirkjufell! You really need to fit a lot in to get the waterfall and the mountain. The combination of the two is really special, albeit unoriginal (which is how you may feel trying to squeeze in to the row of professional-looking photographers all taking the same picture as you 😂).
• Búðakirkja ♦♦♦ – The black church is right off the Ring Road and a perfect last stop for your first day on the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
• Hellnar ♦ – We came here looking for a gas station (spoiler: it’s no longer in service) but stopped for a coffee and to have a look at the church in Hellnar which is especially nice.
• Lóndrangar ♦♦ – This lava field paired with rock formations is said to be the location of the Elf Church and Elf Library. It takes a lot of imagination to get there, but that’s one reason why this field is so special.
• Borgarnes ♦ – One of the more sizable towns between the Penninsula and Reykjavik, this is where I bought my Icelandic wool sweater!

Places to stay on Snæfellsnes peninsula

• Grundarfjörður – This tiny town is right next to Kirkjufell. If you’re going to want to take photos of this mountain at sunrise or during the northern lights, you might find it very convenient to stay here!
• Guesthouse Kast – One of the only places you can eat dinner in the sparsely populated peninsula, staying here would be a great optimization. Here we really experienced more home-style Icelandic food, and the staff was incredibly kind. They also have a northern lights wakeup list, and the wifi works really well.
• Guesthouse Hof – Some real budget accomodation in the area, you actually share a guesthouse with other people. That said, at $65 a night, it’s hard to complain…especially when each house also comes with a jacuzzi! If you don’t need a lot of privacy, the view of the sunset over the ocean and jacuzzi combo is pretty amazing.

9. Finish the Snæfellsnes peninsula and head to Reykjavik (Snæfellsnes → Reykjavik)

Anything you missed yesterday can be reached today by doing a loop around the peninsula and then continuing on to Reykjavik . The first day, we saw Kirkjufell and Búðakirkja. The next day we saw Kirkjufell again, and visited the rest of the places on the list. There are also a few opportunities we didn’t take, such as climbing down into a cave (there are descents every hour).

You can stop in Borgarnes on your way to Reykjavik if you need gas, something from the supermarket, or in my case, an Icelandic wool sweater!

Depending on when your flight is, you can visit Reykjavik tonight or spend the day around the city.

10. Depart from Reykjavik (Reykjavik → Home)

Anything you haven’t done yet in Iceland, today is the day to do it. Pick up your sweater, try on a viking helmet, get some postcards, or just take it easy and enjoy a beer in the pub. I think most people who’ve done the Ring Road are about as unenthusiastic about Reykjavik as I am, so don’t feel like you’ll miss much if you don’t spend enough time in this city.

I didn’t do much in Reykjavik, but I would recommend the two restaurants I tried: Icelandic Fish & Chips and Drunk Rabbit Pub. If you want to try more Icelandic foods, it’s probably less expensive (but still expensive) to do this on the countryside!

Ideas for things to do in Reykjavik

• Visit the Hallgrímskirkja – Bear in mind that the winter hours for going up in the church for a view over Reykjavik are very limited! We missed the possibility by mere minutes, which was very frustrating, especially because it was still bright and sunny. In any case, it is still beautiful from the outside.
• See the Harpa – There was a lot of construction around this beautiful building when we were there, so the view was not as nice as it could’ve been.
• See the Sun Voyager sculpture – In the harbor in Reykjavik, you can come see this shiny metal ship that resembles a viking ship.
• Walk around the tiny downtown – Reykjavik can be explored in approximately one afternoon, so take the time to meander around town and see some of Reykjavik’s cute, historic streets. Just don’t be taken aback when you hear more English than Icelandic in this tourist-heavy town.

Time to fly home!

Being on the road for ten days in Icelandic is not enough to see and do everything, but definitely sufficient to get you thinking about visiting in another season!

Have you been to Iceland?

What’s the number one thing that you want to experience? Let me know in comments! Especially if you have anything you think I missed in this itinerary!!

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About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

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Your Ultimate Guide to Planning an Iceland ring road itinerary

Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1, is a popular road trip destination for travelers looking to explore the country’s stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural experiences. 

Spanning 832 miles (approximately 1340 kilometers), the Ring Road encircles the island and connects many of Iceland’s most iconic attractions, including the famous Golden Circle , the Blue Lagoon , and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon . 

Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to witness breathtaking waterfalls, geysers, volcanic craters, and black-sand beaches. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a road trip on Iceland’s Ring Road is an unforgettable experience.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the main attractions and destinations along the route, answering some of the most frequently asked questions about planning an Iceland ring road itinerary.

Page Contents

How long does it take to drive the Ring Road in Iceland?

The distance of Iceland’s Ring Road is approximately 832 miles (1340 kilometers) , and the drive typically takes around 8-12 days to complete. However, this depends on the speed of your drive, the number of stops you make, and the amount of time you spend at each destination. If you’re planning to drive the full route, it’s important to remember that Iceland’s weather and road conditions can be unpredictable, and you’ll want to allow enough time to safely navigate the roads. Make sure to read our guide for general tips when visiting Iceland !

While it’s possible to do the drive in a shorter amount of time, such as 6 or 5 days, this will mean you’ll have less time to explore each destination and may need to skip some places. However, if you’re looking for a more leisurely pace, 7 days or more could be ideal to take your time; it allows you to enjoy the views and not rush your trip. It’s important to note that the best time to drive the ring road is during the summer when daylight is longer, and the weather is more stable.

It’s also important to note that if you’re planning to drive the Ring Road in the off-season, such as in October, you’ll need to be prepared for colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and possibly snowy or icy road conditions. In this case, it’s best to have a 4×4 vehicle, be well-equipped with the necessary gear, and check the weather forecast frequently.

Is Ring Road Iceland worth it?

The Ring Road in Iceland offers a wealth of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Along the route, you’ll have the opportunity to witness some of the country’s most iconic landscapes and natural wonders, including the Dyrholaey arch and lighthouse , the Kerid Crater , Seljalandsfoss Waterfall , Fjadrargljufur Canyon , and the Hallgrimskirkja Church in Reykjavik.

The Ring Road also provides an excellent opportunity to get off the beaten path and discover some of Iceland’s lesser-known gems. You’ll have the chance to witness the raw power of geysers, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes, as well as the tranquility of fjords, glaciers, and black-sand beaches.

The Ring Road offers plenty of hiking, horseback riding, and even ice-climbing opportunities for those interested in outdoor activities. For history buffs, the road trip is also a great way to learn more about Iceland’s rich cultural heritage, with stops at historic sites and museums throughout the route.

The Ring Road trip in Iceland is a worthwhile experience for many types of travelers, including nature and adventure enthusiasts, culture seekers, and those looking for a unique and scenic road trip. This is because the Iceland road trip itinerary can be tailored to suit your interests and travel style, whether you’re looking for a leisurely and relaxed pace or a more action-packed itinerary.

It’s important to have a good plan before starting your trip, a good Iceland attraction map will help you to see what you can see and plan your time accordingly.

Iceland’s Ring Road Self-Drive Itinerary

One popular itinerary for a ring road trip in Iceland is to start in Reykjavik and drive clockwise around the island. This allows you to see many of the main attractions, such as the Dyrholaey arch and lighthouse , the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall , and Fjadrargljufur Canyon . If you are visiting in October, it’s also worth taking a detour to the Vatnajökull National Park to see the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Skaftafell National Park .

When planning your self-drive itinerary, it’s important to remember that many of Iceland’s roads are unpaved and require a 4×4 vehicle. It’s also a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, as many popular tourist destinations can fill up quickly during peak season. With our Iceland Attraction Map , you can easily plan your route and find the best places to stay and see along the way.

Iceland’s Ring Road Guided Tour

While some travelers prefer to plan their own itinerary and drive the route independently, others opt for a guided ring road tour.

Guided tours of the ring road typically include transportation, accommodation, and a knowledgeable guide who can provide insight and information about the various sights and attractions along the route. These tours can range in duration, with some lasting a week or more, while others can be completed in as little as three days.

Guided tours can be a great option for those looking to experience Iceland’s ring road in October, as the fall months bring the opportunity to see the Northern Lights and witness the landscape’s changing colors as the leaves turn. Many tour companies offer special October itineraries that focus on these unique experiences. 

When booking a guided tour, it’s important to research the different options available and choose a reputable tour company with a track record of providing high-quality, safe, and enjoyable tours.

Planning your Iceland Ring Road itinerary

Planning your Iceland Ring Road itinerary can be daunting, but with a little preparation and research , you’ll be well on your way to a successful and memorable road trip.

First and foremost, it’s important to consider what type of vehicle you’ll need for the drive. While a regular car will work for most of the Ring Road, a 4×4 is recommended for some of the more remote sections of the route, particularly in the highlands. The 4×4 car will give you more flexibility and allow you to access some of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations along the route, such as the Fjadrargljufur Canyon .

When planning your itinerary, it’s also important to consider the best time of year to visit. The Ring Road is open year-round, but the weather and road conditions can vary greatly depending on the season. Summer months (June-August) offer the longest days, the most favorable weather, and the most crowds. Fall and spring are great for visiting the island, fall is the best time to see the Northern lights, and Spring is the best time to see the wildflowers. The winter is also a great time to visit if you’re interested in winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling.

In terms of what to pack, it’s important to be prepared for all types of weather; even in the summer, temperatures can drop quickly in Iceland, and it’s always a good idea to pack warm layers and waterproof clothing. It’s also a good idea to pack a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes, as well as a camera and a good map or guidebook.

Remember that Iceland’s Ring Road is a self-drive tour, so you must plan your own accommodation, routes, and meals. It’s always a good idea to book your accommodation and car rental well in advance, especially during the peak season, and to be flexible with your itinerary in case of unexpected road closures or weather conditions.

A good Iceland ring road trip itinerary will help you make the most of your time and see all the amazing things Iceland has to offer.

Iceland Ring Road Attractions

The Iceland Ring Road is home to some of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders and historic sites. As you plan your itinerary, be sure to include stops at the following must-see attractions:

• Reykjavik : The capital and largest city of Iceland, Reykjavik is home to various museums, restaurants, and shops.
• Hallgrimskirkja Church : This towering, modernist church in Reykjavik is a beautiful architectural feat and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
• Dyrholaey arch and lighthouse : This picturesque coastal area is home to a natural arch and lighthouse and a large puffin colony in the summer months.
• Kerid Crater : This 3000-year-old volcanic crater lake is a unique and beautiful sight, with its bright blue water set against the stark red rock.
• Vatnajökull National Park : The largest national park in Iceland, Vatnajökull is home to glaciers, ice caps, and glistening glacial lagoons.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon : This natural wonder is a must-see, with its floating icebergs and crystal clear water.
• Skaftafell National Park : This park offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, and offers panoramic views of the Vatnajökull glacier.
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall : This waterfall, located in the Seljalands River, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland, and it is possible to walk behind the waterfall.
• Thingvellir National Park : This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Iceland’s most important historical sites. It is also the location of the first parliament in the world.
• Geysir Geothermal Area : This area is home to the famous geyser, Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes, and it’s a great place to observe the geothermal activity.
• Gullfoss Waterfall : This powerful waterfall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland, and it offers a spectacular view from the top.

For more detailed information on these attractions and other popular destinations in Iceland, be sure to check out our Iceland’s Attraction Map article for a comprehensive guide.

How much does it cost to drive the Ring Road in Iceland?

Driving Iceland’s Ring Road can be a budget-friendly option for a road trip vacation. Still, it’s important to consider the costs associated with renting a vehicle and the cost of gas in Iceland.

Renting a vehicle in Iceland can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from $50 to $200 per day depending on the type of vehicle and rental company. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for the Ring Road, as some roads can be rough and unpaved. Additionally, gas prices in Iceland are also relatively high, averaging around $7 per gallon (approximately 6.5 euros for 2.5 liters) .

However, there are ways to save money on your road trip; one tip is to plan your itinerary in advance and book your rental car and accommodations well in advance to take advantage of early bird discounts. You can also save money by cooking your own meals instead of eating out at restaurants and by camping or staying in budget-friendly accommodations instead of more expensive hotels.

Our Iceland attraction map can also help you plan your budget and include the most important destinations in your itinerary. It’s also worth noting that many popular attractions such as Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja Church , Dyrholaey arch and lighthouse , the Kerid Crater , Fjadrargljufur Canyon , Hallgrimskirkja Church, Dyrholaey arch and lighthouse, Kerid Crater, Vatnajökull National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Skaftafell National Park, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall , Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall are free to visit.

Ring Road trip, Iceland Itinerary

This 8-day Iceland ring road itinerary is the perfect way to experience all the natural beauty and unique attractions the country offers. The itinerary includes stops at some of Iceland’s most iconic locations. 

The itinerary starts in Reykjavik and makes a clockwise loop around the country, ending back in the capital. This allows for easy planning and allows you to see the most popular attractions on the ring road while leaving room for self-discovery and exploration.

• Day 1: Reykjavik to Vatnajökull National Park
• Day 2: Vatnajökull National Park to Skaftafell National Park
• Day 3: Skaftafell National Park to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Day 4: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Thingvellir National Park
• Day 5: Thingvellir National Park to Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall
• Day 6: Gullfoss Waterfall to Dyrholaey arch and lighthouse
• Day 7: Dyrholaey arch and lighthouse to Kerid Crater  
• Day 8: Return to Reykjavik and discover the Hallgrimskirkja Church

The Golden Circle and Ring Road: What’s the difference?

The Golden Circle and Iceland’s Ring Road are two of the most popular tourist routes in Iceland, but they offer very different experiences. The Golden Circle is a shorter route, typically taking around 3-4 hours to drive, and it focuses on some of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions. This includes the Geysir Hot Springs , Gullfoss Waterfall , and Thingvellir National Park . On the other hand, the Ring Road is a much longer route that circles the entire country and takes around 8-12 days to complete. It offers several landscapes and experiences, including glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and more.

One of the main differences between the two routes is the type of scenery you’ll see. The Golden Circle primarily showcases Iceland’s geothermal and volcanic landscapes, while the Ring Road takes you through various landscapes, including glaciers, fjords, and black sand beaches. Additionally, the Ring Road allows you to see more of Iceland’s remote and lesser-visited regions, while the Golden Circle is more of a “greatest hits” tour of the country’s most popular attractions.

Another important consideration when choosing between the two routes is the amount of time you have available. If you only have a few days to explore Iceland, the Golden Circle is an excellent option as it can be completed in a day. However, if you have a week or more, the Ring Road allows you to see much more of the country and experience a wider variety of landscapes.

In terms of transportation, a 4×4 is not strictly necessary for the Golden Circle, as the main attractions can be accessed by regular vehicles. However, renting a 4×4 can give you more flexibility and allow you to explore some of the more remote regions along the route.

Whether the Golden Circle or the Ring Road is “worth it” depends on your preferences and travel style. The Golden Circle is a great option if you’re short on time and want to see some of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions, while the Ring Road offers a much more comprehensive and diverse experience. 

In addition, our Iceland attraction map offers a great way to plan your trip and ensure you don’t miss any of the major attractions in Iceland.

Make your own Iceland ring road itinerary

In conclusion, Iceland’s Ring Road is a popular and worthwhile road trip destination that offers a diverse range of experiences and attractions. The full route takes around 8-12 days to complete, but it is also possible to do it in a shorter amount of time, such as 6 or 5 days, depending on your pace and interests.

When planning your itinerary, it’s important to consider the type of vehicle you’ll need for the drive and the best time of year to visit. The costs associated with renting a vehicle and gas prices in Iceland can add up, so budgeting and saving money are crucial.

The Golden Circle is a popular route that offers its own unique attractions, such as the Geysir Hot Springs, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. It takes around 3-4 hours to drive, and a 4×4 is unnecessary.

Overall, Iceland’s Ring Road and Golden Circle offer a chance to see the country’s natural beauty and unique culture. It’s worth taking the time to plan your own itinerary and experience it for yourself. 

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Hey there! I'm Elliot Clennam, a passionate photographer based in Brussels, Belgium. My love for capturing the essence of my surroundings has led me on countless adventures, from exciting road trips to bustling city escapes.

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Awesome Iceland Itinerary: 7 Days on the Ring Road + Maps, Tips, & More!

Last Updated: April 15, 2023 //  by  Guest Author Leave a Comment

Driving Iceland’s Ring Road is a popular bucket list item for travelers, and with this Iceland itinerary 7 days is perfect to introduce you to Iceland’s magnificence.

If you have just a long weekend to visit, or want to visit on a quick stopover on the way to somewhere else, you can certainly experience much of what Iceland has to offer. This 4-day Iceland itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to stick to the Reykjavik area and who don’t want to bother with renting a car.

However, if you have a few more days, you can explore so much more of this amazing and endlessly beautiful country! This 7-day Iceland itinerary will take you around the entire island on a trip you’ll never forget.

This post was originally written by a friend of mine who has since retired his travel blog. He has allowed me to make it mine and republish it here on MWL.

Table of Contents

Iceland Ring Road itinerary – 7 days

I visited Iceland in July, smack in the middle of the high summer season. If you’re planning the same, you’ll need to prepare your budget and book your accommodation as far in advance as possible. It gets busy this time of year, but it’s so worth it. This Iceland Ring Road itinerary will help you break away from the typical Reykjavik home base and experience more of Iceland’s magic.

The Iceland Ring Road offers spectacular landscapes, a sense of adventure, and a change of scenery about once an hour. You’ll go from lush lagoons to moon-like craters, with dozens of epic waterfalls in between.

While you can see plenty in and around the Reykjavik area, the whole country offers so much more beyond that. My favorite parts of exploring Iceland in 7 days were almost all a significant drive from the capital. The variety of what you can see is unmatched. So, pack your bags and grab some road snacks, because here we go!

Preparing for your Iceland Ring Road trip

First things first, there are certain things you must prepare for when planning a road trip around Iceland’s Ring Road. Because Iceland has become such a popular destination, you’ll need to book some aspects of this 7-day Iceland itinerary in advance.

The summer crowds in Iceland are certainly noticeable. Considering certain areas of the country only have one accommodation option, they’re competitive as well. With these limitations in mind, the things I most highly recommend booking in advance are:

• Accommodations for every night of your trip , especially in the more remote areas. You can read reviews here on Tripadvisor , then book them here on Booking.com . Don’t forget about vacation rentals as an option too.
• A rental car . For this, RentalCars.com is the best place to start.
• Specific Iceland tours and activities like the Blue Lagoon, glacier hikes, horseback riding, etc.
• An Iceland guidebook . Check out Rick Steves , Rough Guides , or Fodor’s and choose your favorite. Also pick up the Iceland Culture Smart guide .

Want to pick the perfect hotel every time? Check out my post on the 16 most important factors to consider when choosing a hotel .

Planning ahead for your 7-day Iceland itinerary is a must. Unless you’ll be sleeping in campervan every night, you should know your rest stop and accommodation for each evening. (Campervans are an extremely popular way to see Iceland, but inventory is limited so check on this early!)

Additionally, be prepared for traffic and crowds at the more popular locations. Thankfully, with this Ring Road guide you’ll visit some of the less crowded (but even more spectacular) locales as well. You won’t feel claustrophobic in this wide open country!

What to pack for Iceland’s Ring Road

For starters, everything you need to know about what to pack for Iceland in the summer can be found in that link. This complete guide covers everything you’ll need: apparel, adventure essentials, electronics, toiletries, and more. And don’t forget to grab your free, printable Iceland packing checklist here:

Iceland Packing List

For the Ring Road especially, where the weather is known for being unpredictable, here are the most important items:

Weatherproof gear

Pack a quality rain jacket and rain pants because you’ll most definitely encounter rain, wind, and waterfalls on your trip. I’m a big fan of Columbia’s rain gear. It’s perfect for rain, as a stellar windbreaker, and a must-have for getting up close to Iceland’s many waterfalls. Shop them here (lots of colors to choose from):

• Columbia rain jacket for women / for men , and on Amazon for women / for men
• Columbia rain pants for women / for men , and on Amazon for women / for men

A quality down jacket and/or fleece jacket are also great for the chilly summer temperatures. I particularly like Columbia’s fleece jackets which you can choose from here and here . And their lightweight down jackets which you can find here for women, and here and here for men.

Good hiking shoes

You’ll also need a solid pair of hiking boots—this is a non-negotiable given Iceland’s weather and terrain. And you’ll get tons of use out of them on this 7-day Iceland itinerary. Seriously, you probably only need this one pair of shoes for the whole week.

I can’t say enough good things about my Oboz Bridger hiking boots . These are such good quality, comfortable, and were good-to-go right out of the box. No breaking in period required. I’ve worn them hiking all over the world and they still look and feel new. Shop them here:

• Oboz Bridger BDry for women / for men on Amazon
• Oboz Bridger BDry for women / for men on Zappos.com (my favorite shoe site ever!)
• And don’t forget the world’s best hiking socks to wear with them!

Stay gassed up

One piece of advice I read before my trip was to fill up at every gas station, no matter how full your tank was. It ended up becoming a running joke with my travel buddy because we’d see gas stations after having just filled up an hour earlier. I did find out why that advice existed though.

Driving through the northern highlands, I passed a gas station with about half a tank on my biggest driving day. The next several miles were largely uphill, and my needle plummeted as my little car chugged along.

I managed to get to my destination, but we were so low on gas I was nearly in tears at the sight of the next gas station. After filling up, I calculated that we probably had about 1/3 of a LITER of gas left at that point. From that point forward, we instituted the fill up no matter what policy.

Scheduling your 7-day Iceland itinerary

Since you’re on a road trip and have complete control over your schedule, timing doesn’t have to be too strict. However, there are a few exceptions:

• You’ll want to be up at sunrise for some of the busy days and to catch some beautiful views.
• Some of the more remote B&Bs stop serving dinner at a certain time. (And there are no grocery stores or restaurants anywhere nearby.)
• Some of the B&Bs also stop accepting guests after a certain hour, even if you have a pre-booked reservation. So, be sure you know what those times are for the places you book.

I’m used to packing a lot of activities into one day so I ran afoul of those latter points a few times. Thankfully, they sometimes made exceptions with the food and always made exceptions with the check-ins. Although, not without letting me know I was late.

I would, however, highly recommend stashing some sandwich supplies to keep in the car with you in the event that you can’t get food in the evening.

Alright, you’ve booked your accommodation and rental car (even if those are one in the same), packed a variety of clothing with plenty of light layers and, of course, your camera! Now, it’s time to get off your flight and hop on the Iceland Ring Road to explore everything this gorgeous country has to offer in one unforgettable week.

Day 1: Arrival, Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon

Hop off your plane at Iceland’s Keflavik airport, grab your rental car, and hit the road! All flights arriving in Reykjavik from the U.S. land between 6:00 and 6:40 AM, regardless of departure point. (No idea why they do this.) This first day in Iceland is a great time to rest, adjust to the time difference, and prepare for your upcoming 7-day Iceland itinerary.

This is also a great chance to check out some of Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital city. In between stocking up on road trip supplies, you can:

• Take a great walking tour of the city
• head up to the top of Hallgrímskirkja for some aerial views
• take a whale watching tour or a puffin tour if that interests you,
• Grab some pastries from Brauð & Co., lobster soup from the Sea Baron, and one of Iceland’s famous hot dogs from the BBP.
• Check out the Sun Voyager sculpture, some of Reykjavik’s colorful street art, and more.

This is also the best time to visit the Blue Lagoon—Iceland’s world famous geothermal spa. While you’ll encounter many geothermal areas during your 7-day Iceland itinerary, the Blue Lagoon is interesting in its own ways!

I highly recommend a visit and I’ve visited a couple of times already. For everything you need to know about visiting the Blue Lagoon , check out that link! And for everything else you can see and do during your time in Reykjavik, check out my shorter Iceland itinerary .

Day 1 accommodation suggestions

Downtown Reykjavik is a great place to stay on the first night of your 7-day Iceland itinerary. However, keep in mind that parking is not widely available. Many downtown hotels simply rely on public parking. You can always search Booking.com and filter for hotels with parking to see your other options. Besides that, here are some downtown Reykjavik hotel recommendations:

• Center Hotels Plaza – Where I stayed on my latest visit to Iceland and it’s perfect! Walking distance to everything in town, affordable, clean, friendly staff, highly recommend!
• Kvosin Downtown Hotel – (Paid) parking nearby, great terrace with views, continental breakfast, popular place!
• Hotel Holt – Free private parking, great location within walking distance of everything, helpful and friendly staff.

Day 2: Iceland’s Golden Circle + more

Today is departure day for your Iceland Ring Road adventure! Today, we’ll explore Iceland’s famous Golden Circle and see a number of unique landscapes and visit some ancient historical sites.

For my Ring Road adventure, I drove against the usual clockwise route and the difference was noticeable. There were many cars going the opposite direction and not a whole lot going my way. I’m not entirely sure why most people begin the Ring Road going north, but I think driving counter-clockwise made a significant difference in crowds and traffic for me.

First stop: Þingvellir National Park

On the second day of your 7-day Iceland itinerary, you’ll visit many of Iceland’s most popular destinations to kick off your road trip. Just 30 minutes outside Reykjavik lies the Golden Circle, a collection of Iceland’s most popular destinations not too far from the capital.

The first of these is Þingvellir National Park , home to Iceland’s first parliament and the continental divide between the North American and European tectonic plates.

If you have the time and the desire, this is also the place where you can famously snorkel Silfra , the lake that bridges the two tectonic plates. (You can even do this in the winter!) The water in Silfra is some of the world’s clearest and it’s a truly special experience to swim between two continents.

Stop 2: Geysir and more geysers

An hour up the road from Þingvellir is Geysir , the famous Geyser from which all other such phenomena get their names. Unfortunately, Geysir itself rarely erupts but the nearby Stokkur geyser erupts frequently (every 5-10 minutes).

I loved Strokkur because of the magnificent blue bubble that forms with every eruption. The site itself is a large geothermal area with lots of spots to check out. Boiling springs and other tiny geysers can be seen here as well. Take your time and check it all out.

Stop 3: Gullfoss

Ten minutes down the road from Geysir you’ll find Gullfoss , one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland. Gullfoss is also the largest waterfall in Europe (by volume). Because it’s so well known and lies on the Golden Circle, be prepared for large crowds at this stop.

There are two ways to see Gullfoss. One is up close and personal from the lower viewpoint. The other is a high and wide view of the whole place from the deck on top. Both are just short walks, but you’ll fight large tour bus crowds on both of them.

Just put on your patience cap (and your waterproof gear) and wait your turn to get pictures from the railings. It’s a fairly quick stop compared to the others today but still worth it for the scale of the falls. There is also a gift shop and café on site for a quick lunch and restroom break.

Stop 4: Háifoss

Háifoss isn’t part of the Golden Circle, but it’s somewhat nearby. It also was one of my favorite waterfalls in all of Iceland.

Getting there is a fairly lengthy detour down some rough roads. Be prepared for a bumpy ride and take special care over the rocks that make a sort of stair formation partway through the drive, as you don’t want to rip off your oil pan!

Though some people have made it to Háifoss in a small car, you’ll definitely feel better navigating this 7-day Iceland itinerary in a 4×4, so rent responsibly .

Can you visit Háifoss with a small car if you have to though? Get everything you need to know about visiting Háifoss waterfall without a 4×4 here.

Háifoss is the third largest waterfall in Iceland and is actually two waterfalls for the price of one. (Even though the price is actually free.) The second waterfall is known as Granni. The river and canyon at the bottom of the falls create a beautiful vista. The desire to hike down there to see the falls up close is one of the things that makes me want to return to Iceland the most.

Not only is Háifoss one of the most scenic waterfalls I’ve ever seen, but I was lucky enough to be graced with incredible scattered light the day I was there. When you visit, be sure to exercise patience and wait for clouds to clear. You’ll be rewarded with one of my favorite sights on this entire 7-day Iceland itinerary and great photos.

Stop 5: Kerið Crater Lake

Afterwards, gingerly make your way back down the rocky road from Háifoss. Next up is over to the Kerið volcanic crater to see its lake’s vibrant colors.

Kerið Crater Lake is about 3,000 years old and is found in an area known as Iceland’s Western Volcanic Zone. The minerals of the nearby rocks cause the vibrant turquoise color of the lake. The lake itself is pretty shallow and you can even take a path all the way down to the water.

Many guided tours include a stop at Kerið volcanic crater on their sightseeing itineraries, but it’s just as easy to visit on your self-drive. However, be prepared to pay a small fee in order to visit the site. (This helps the landowners preserve the natural site and maintain the parking area.)

Stop 6: Skogafoss

Yes, the stop count is getting high now! I actually did not stop at Skogafoss simply because Iceland is absolutely covered in waterfalls so I had to pick and choose.

However, if I were to do it over again, I would have spent less time at Kerið and stopped at Skogafoss instead. Skogafoss is an extremely easy waterfall to visit—you can even see it from the road. Skogafoss is one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland and you can walk up pretty close to it to really feel its power. Just be sure to wear your rain gear for this one!

This will be your last stop for the night unless you’re feeling especially motivated. In that case, you should try to squeeze in one more stop if you can…

Stop 7: Seljalandsfoss (time permitting)

If you still have time on your first big day on Iceland’s Ring Road, try and catch the sunset at Seljalandsfoss. I saved it for the following morning, but as I saw the next day it’s really a sunset waterfall. I’ll explain more on tomorrow’s schedule.

However, you can absolutely save it for day two and it will still impress.

Day 2 accommodation suggestions

For hotels on the second night of your 7-day Iceland itinerary, look for properties in Hella, Iceland . You can start here with the full list, or check out these top recommendations. All have free parking and free WiFi.

• Hótel Lækur – Phenomenal reviews, great food, family owned, hot tub!
• Loa’s Nest – More great reviews, nice breakfast, kind and welcoming owners, mountain views.
• Farmer’s Guest House – Clean and comfortable, a lot of privacy, they have horses!

Day 3: Iceland road trip variety pack

Day 3 of your Iceland Ring Road itinerary is a busy day filled with activities and hugely different sights. So, get an early start and hit Iceland’s Ring Road at sunrise.

Looking back at all the different things I did on this stretch, it’s hard to believe it all happened in one day! I went from cold, howling winds at Dyrhólaey to beautiful sunshine on the Skaftafell Glacier to a gorgeous sunset on a glacier lake. It’s going to be a great day!

Stop 1: Seljalandsfoss

If you didn’t catch sunset here last night, Seljalandsfoss will be your first stop of the day. Seljalandsfoss is known for being the waterfall you can walk behind, and get ready to get wet if you do. Seljalandsfoss flows over a cave and has an easy walking dirt path running all the way around it.

The opening of the cave faces west, so as I mentioned earlier you will get the best photos if you arrive at sunset instead of sunrise. I arrived right at sunrise and didn’t get the best light, but it did help me more or less have the place to myself which is always a plus!

Stop 2: Dyrhólaey

After you’ve had your fun at Seljalandsfoss (or if you already saw it last night), hop back on the Ring Road route #1 and head south. You’ll eventually turn onto a gravel road and head to the black sand beaches of Dyrhólaey. Because it’s on the coast, expect brutally high winds on a regular basis. The wind was absolutely howling on the morning I visited and it was tough to even open my car door.

The most famous sight at Dyrhólaey is the arch that stretches out to sea. There are views of it from the bottom parking lot which Google Maps will point you to if you type in Dyrhólaey . However, the best views are at the top of the cliff to the west.

Other than the obligatory arch photo, you can also (carefully!) sit on any number of rocky precipices in the area. Take in the view of the black sand beach as the birds soar along the cliffs, casually hovering on gusts of wind.

Stop 3: Fjaðrárgljúfur

If you’ve gotten your fill of freezing wind, get back on the Ring Road and drive just over an hour to Fjaðrárgljúfur. This will be quite a change of pace from the wide open beaches of Dyrhólaey. Fjaðrárgljúfur is a narrow canyon with a beautiful double waterfall at the end, like a mini version of Háifoss.

When I visited, there was quite a bit of construction underway to create some new walking paths. There were also many other well-worn paths roped off and forbidden to access (in an effort to preserve the fauna). As a result, Fjaðrárgljúfur is less of an “explore me” destination and more of a place where you’ll just stick to the path.

Stop 4: Vatnajökull Glacier Hike

This was possibly my favorite activity on my entire Ring Road Iceland itinerary. If you’re interested in touring the glacier, take a look at this small-group Vatnajökull glacier hike – it was unforgettable!

We were provided with helmets, crampons, and ice axes, although the latter ended up being unnecessary. As you can see from the photo, it wasn’t very cold either. We had beautiful sunshine for the entire hike.

If you book one excursion during your 7 days in Iceland, this should be it ! Just be sure to arrive at the Skaftafell visitor center early as parking was a bit tough to find.

Stop 5: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lake

Your final stop for the day is the stunning and ever popular Jökulsárlón glacier lake. The icebergs come from the glacier you just hiked on, which calves into the lake before the chunks of ice float out to sea.

I was initially worried about whether or not there would be enough ice in the lake during my summer visit to make the stop worthwhile, but as you can see below that clearly wasn’t an issue.

Not only was Jökulsárlón filled with icebergs, but it was also teeming with birds flying off into the sunset as well as several seals. The sun stayed low in the sky and gave a nice warm color to the scenery for what seemed like hours.

It’s easy to see why Jökulsárlón is such a popular destination. It certainly lives up to the hype. After you’ve taken it all in, make the quick 10-minute drive to your accommodation for the evening and enjoy a meal before resting up for another long day on Iceland’s Ring Road.

Day 3 accommodation suggestions

In this remote location, there are just a handful of accommodation options. Here are the two highest-rated properties in the area:

• Hali Country Hotel – Nice restaurant on site for both breakfast and dinner, and even pack lunches available for purchase for the next day, free parking and WiFi, tons of great reviews! (This is where I stayed.)
• Ekra Glacier Lagoon – Excellent reviews, free private parking and free WiFi, people find it to be a great value for the money

Day 4: The long, open road

Day 4 of your 7-day Iceland itinerary is going to be a driving day with some sights at the end. The good news is that since the schedule of the day is a bit flexible, this is your chance to sleep in if you need to. I had a casual breakfast after a long night of sleep and hopped back on the Ring Road around 10 am.

Many people either make this is a strict driving day through the north or stop for the evening somewhere in the east fjords, often in the charming town of Seydisfjorður. My goal for the day was to make it to Dettifoss with enough time to grab dinner in the evening.

Getting to Northern Iceland

Instead of winding my way through the eastern fjords, I opted to depart the Iceland Ring Road and cut through on highway 939. Highway 939 is also known as the Öxi Pass and is an unpaved highway that winds through the mountains. Taking this route instead of the Ring Road saves about 45 minutes of driving time, leaving you more at your destination, and offers great views.

However, if you did want (or have) to take the long way, you’ll pass by the town of Reyðarfjörður. Here, you can visit one of Iceland’s great World War II museums , among other things.

It should be noted that Highway 939 is a summer short cut only , and should not be attempted during the rest of the year. You can drive this road in a non-4×4 vehicle, but be sure to do so carefully to avoid car damage from potholes and kicked-up rocks.

Remember my gas story earlier? That happened today, as I drove through Egilsstaðir with just over half a tank. Don’t make the same mistake as me; that town is the last gas stop until Reykjahlíð. I’m glad I rented a fuel efficient subcompact instead of a 4×4 for this reason alone as that is a very long stretch of road for any car to go without filling up.

Dettifoss is tied with Háifoss for my favorite waterfall in Iceland. It’s the most powerful waterfall and you can walk right up to the edge without any issues. (But, as always, do so at your own risk!)

One thing to note for Dettifoss is that there are two entrances and both require a fairly lengthy detour from the Ring Road. If you want to get any kind of decent experience from this stop, you must enter from the east side on highway 864 . GPS will not always lead you in this direction.

I happened to pick this side out of pure luck and was very glad I did. If you enter from the other side on Highway 862, all you get is a distant view of the falls and every single bit of spray coming your direction. See the cliffs at the top right of the photo? That’s the viewpoint from the west side.

Returning to civilization

I continued back on the Ring Road to my destination for the night, nervously watching my gas gauge the entire time. Between Dettifoss and Reykjahlíð you can see some spectacular lunar landscapes as well. Thankfully, I made it to Reykjahlíð with my whopping 0.3 liters of gas and vowed never to cut it that close again.

By the time I arrived at Langavatn Guesthouse, they had already stopped serving dinner. Thankfully, they made an exception for me. My bed for the night was in a charming farmhouse and I was treated to an otherworldly sunset enveloped in a thick fog before tucking in for the night.

Day 4 accommodation suggestions

At the end of your fourth day you’ll find yourself in another remote location with few options. Here are the best ones:

• Langavatn Guesthouse – Where I stayed, beautiful farmhouse B&B, breakfast included, free Wifi, comfortable rooms, surrounded by animals!
• Guesthouse Brúnahlíð – Excellent reviews, free WiFi, comfortable rooms, great views and horses! (Can you see where my priorities lie?)

Day 5: Sulfur pots, horse trots, & secret hot spots

Phew! Hope you’re rested up from that massive driving day. We’re back to packing our days with scenery and activity, and today will provide us with a variety of both. So pack your sandwiches, make sure your tank is topped off, and head back to the Mývatn area for some otherworldly landscapes.

Stop 1: Hverir Mud Pits

We’re backtracking a bit and driving just east of Reykjahlíð over Mt. Námafjall to the Hverir Geothermal Area. It’s impossible to miss because you’ll feel like you’ve landed on Venus and the welcome center is a sulfur factory.

The smell of sulfur really is overpowering in this area and I couldn’t spend too much time up close to the mud pits. Despite the odor, however, the area is really cool. I felt like I was on another planet (I say that often about Iceland, don’t I?) while I walked through the desolate, bubbling landscape.

The Hverir area also has a steam vent that seems to perpetually spew into the air. It makes an awesome, powerful noise as it billows clouds out like some earth-powered steam engine. It’s a cool sight and well worth the backtrack.

Stop 2: Mývatn Scenic Loop

Alright, this is more of a drive than a stop, but with plenty of things to see along the way. The loop begins in Reykjahlíð and continues around Lake Mývatn, meeting back up with the Ring Road in the southwest corner.

The Mývatn area is filled with interesting scenery like the lava fields of Dimmuborgir and the rootless cones (pseudo-craters) surrounding the lake. I stopped by the visitor center in the south to hike along these craters, but I had a few unwelcome locals there to greet me.

Be aware: there are tons of flies around Lake Mývatn. (It’s literally named after the hordes of midges that call it home.) I walked around the craters, but there were probably a few dozen flies per cubic feet of air here. It made for an interesting walk, but honestly it was not the most enjoyable.

These midges thankfully don’t bite and are just a bit of a nuisance, but it did add a challenge to seeing the cool sights around Lake Mývatn. Get in and out of your car as quickly as possible to avoid any flying hitchhikers.

Stop 3: Goðafoss

About 30 minutes down the road you’ll find Goðafoss, another impressive waterfall. As legend has it, Goðafoss got its name when the lawmaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði (yes, THAT Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði) made Christianity the official religion of Iceland and threw his statues of the old Norse gods over the falls.

The whole Goðafoss area is a great stop with a visitor center that sells coffee and food, has accessible bathrooms, and plenty more to explore. There’s a bridge crossing the river in the area that makes it easy to walk along both sides of the waterfall and even down to the river to get a view from below. Enjoy a snack and check your watch because the next activity is one that you’ll need to book in advance.

Stop 4: Horseback riding in the Icelandic countryside

Here’s your opportunity to ride genuine Icelandic horses, the only type of horses allowed in the country. These horses are beautiful, friendly, uniquely small, and playful with puppy-like dispositions. I went riding with this Hestasport tour , located about 2 hours west of Goðafoss.

Even with my amateur horseback riding status I was still able to experience the tölt, a gait unique to Iceland’s horses. It’s a fast-paced but smooth trot. I loved the ride and it was certainly a unique experience. As a bonus, I’m usually massively allergic to horses, but had way fewer issues with the Icelandic horses. So, if that’s you too, take that into account!

You’ll need to book your horseback riding excursion ahead of time. Check out the horseback riding options for this area here.

Stop 5: Fosslaug, a secret hot spring

Our amazing horseback riding guide tipped us off to a secluded hot spring nearby. To reach it, continue past the stables down highway 753 until the road ends, then turn left. Continue down that road until you reach the end, park, and walk through the gate towards the river, passing the waterfall.

If you follow the path, you’ll eventually cross a small bridge after which you’ll continue forward. After cresting the small hill, you’ll find Fosslaug, a small and super charming natural hot spring situated alongside the river.

This surprise stop is another reason you should always bring a bathing suit to Iceland, regardless of season. There are always geothermally-heated spots to warm yourself up in. This was a great next stop to soothe those sore horseback riding muscles.

Heading in for the night

We spent a bit more time at Fosslaug than we should have, and as a result we arrived late to our accommodation again. Luckily, we were able to check in and get some delicious fish and mashed potatoes for dinner.

Day 5 accommodation suggestions

As another remote stop on your 7-day Iceland itinerary, your options are limited. I stayed at the lovely Guesthouse Hof in Vatnsdalur, but there’s another option nearby.

• Guesthouse Hof in Vatnsdalur – Where I stayed, awesome nature views, free WiFi, buffet breakfast each morning, dinner offerings, working farm with horses, sheep, chickens, and more.
• Hvammur 2 Guesthouse – Mountain views, more like a hostel, I’m not sure they serve food there? You also have to pay for parking here for some reason. Go with the first option.

Day 6: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

It’s time to move on to the last major area of our 7-day Iceland itinerary and Ring Road road trip, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

To get there from last night’s accommodation takes about three hours, with much of it over unpaved roads once you reach the peninsula. If you’d like to break up the drive, this is a great opportunity to see Hvitserkur, the famous stone troll. (I’ve included it in the map.)

I opted to head straight down the Ring Road to Snæfellsnes because I could hardly contain my excitement.

Getting to the peninsula requires departing the Ring Road and heading through many twists and turns on unpaved gravel roads. It’s slow and bumpy but at least you get some great views. You’ll also get some bragging rights for having the dirtiest car on the planet.

Stop 1: Kirkjufell

Eventually you’ll arrive at Kirkjufell, Iceland’s most photographed mountain. Located just west of Grundarfjörður, it’s a cute little area that’s fun to walk around. It’s almost a sport now to find the best, most precise spot to train your camera for the prime composition. Most people come out of it with the same iconic shot with the waterfalls in the foreground. (see below)

It’s nice to walk around looking at all of the different angles of this picturesque spot and sitting on the small island in the middle of it all is a peaceful experience. Take your time to soak it up, but if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’ll have another chance to check it out tomorrow.

Leg 2: Snæfellsjökull National Park

After Kirkjufell, keep going west down the road onto Highway 574 where you’ll enter Snæfellsjökull National Park. It’s a short loop that takes around an hour to drive, but of course you’ll want to stop for photos and walks along the way.

The national park is home to the Snæfellsjökull glacier, a towering mountain that looms over the entire peninsula. It’s said to be one of the seven energy centers of the earth and is also the setting for Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth . The glacier’s presence is palpable.

Besides Snæfellsjökull, the loop through the national park is said to be like driving through a miniature Iceland, and I have to agree. In that short hour the landscape changes constantly from one unique vista to the next.

One pleasant place to stop and break up the loop is the Malariff Lighthouse, located on the southwest corner of the peninsula. It stands among rocky cliff sides and there are plenty of walking paths in the area to stretch your legs.

Another option is to tour Vatnshellir Cave which is in the same area. From what I saw, it required reservations, so be sure to prepare in advance if you want to experience your own journey to the center of the earth.

Day 6 accommodation suggestions

After you’ve casually made your loop around the peninsula, grab some dinner in town then make your way to your accommodation for the night. I stayed in Grundarfjörður, a charming town right next to Kirkjufell, but another option would be to stay in Ólafsvík .

• Grund í Grundarfirdi – Where I stayed, doesn’t serve any food but does offer free laundry, spacious and comfortable rooms, free parking, free Wifi, and has excellent reviews.

Day 7: The scenic route to Reykjavik

Today, the last of your 7-day Iceland itinerary, you’ll head back to Reykjavik. (But not without stuffing even more sights in along the way.)

If there’s a cruise ship in the harbor, prepare for big crowds in the city if you were considering going out for breakfast. Otherwise, swing by Kirkjufell early to beat the crowds and try to catch a nice sunrise before you head back towards the Ring Road.

Stop 1: Búðakirkja

Leaving Grundarfjörður, head south down Highway 54 and make a quick pit stop at Búðakirkja. This black painted church in the middle of nowhere makes for a unique photo op, even if you only spend 15 minutes there. If you’d like to spend more time, there are hiking trails in the area down the coastline as well.

Stop 2: Ytri Tunga seals

Just a 15-minute drive from Búðakirkja lies Ytri Tunga State Beach, home to a large colony of seals. It’s said that the best time to see the seals is in June or July, so I’m glad that’s when I was there.

When I visited, most of the seals were on a small peninsula just to the east of the parking lot, but I imagine it’s different day-to-day. I was fortunate to see so many active seals out on the rocks eyeing us inquisitively.

If you visit and want to know where the seals are, just look for all the people and that’s probably a good starting point.

Stop 3: Glymur waterfall

My biggest regret of Iceland is that I was unable to do the hike to Glymur, Iceland’s second highest waterfall. Unfortunately, when you only allow one day for an activity, it doesn’t always work out. Surely enough, the skies opened up as I approached the turnoff for the hike.

After a week on the road, I couldn’t convince myself to hike several hours through the rain and mud. However, though I’ve read it’s one of Iceland most beautiful hikes, if you can’t see 50 feet in front of you it somewhat defeats the purpose.

Anyhow, if you can squeeze it in and the weather cooperates, please let me know how you liked it. At least I’ve got a few good excuses to plan another 7-day Iceland itinerary now.

Stop 4: Back in Reykjavik

You’re back in the city! Congratulations on circumnavigating the Iceland Ring Road in 7 days! You’ll probably be getting in fairly late if you did the Glymur hike. But, if you ended up going straight to Reykjavik like I did, then take time to explore more of this beautiful city.

If you want to have an amazing and unforgettable meal on your last night in Iceland, book a reservation at Apotek . You will not regret it. Also don’t miss Reykjavik’s cool craft beer scene and the famous Lebowski Bar .

Day 7 accommodation suggestions

Back in Reykjavik, I still recommend Center Hotels Plaza or the Kvosin Downtown Hotel . If you want to see other options, check out all Reykjavik hotels here.

Depending on when your flight leaves Iceland, you might have some more time in Reykjavik the next morning or even opt for another day to decompress. Either way, there’s plenty to see in this capital city before heading back towards the airport and turning in your extremely dirty car. I hope with this 7-day Iceland itinerary you have a trip you’ll never forget!

Have a great time on your week in Iceland!

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Zest In A Tote

For the discerning family traveler, the ultimate iceland ring road itinerary: 12 days road trip.

• by Shweta Singhal
• Posted on July 9, 2023 April 5, 2024

Iceland. Better Than Space.

While I was researching for my Iceland ring road itinerary, I came upon this campaign line. Now we are all familiar with marketing campaigns that are mostly hyperbole. But after walking on dried magma, seeing volcanic black sand plains, hiking over glaciers and entering sub-glacial ice caves, dipping into geothermal water, I have bought into Iceland ‘s tourism campaign. And if you are the adventurous sort who wants to experience most of the rugged, wild beauty in this country, no better than this Iceland road trip Itinerary in 12 days.

Ring Road or Route 1 is Iceland’s main road that goes all around the country. So an Iceland road trip itinerary traverses mainly along the ring road. It is quite easy to rent a car and self-drive in springtime and summer (mid-April to September end). It covers all the must-do in the more touristy parts of south coast, and also to the lesser visited (but not less stunning) east, north and west regions. This route can be travelled clock-wise (which is what we did) or counter-clockwise.

This 12-days Iceland ring road itinerary is best suited for the active lot who pack in sightseeing and experiences each day. It is meant for first time visitors to Iceland and leaves out Westfjords completely. We did manage a day off the ring road into the remote Highland region in Central Iceland though. It can be easily curtailed to a 10-Days Iceland road trip itinerary or expanded to a 14 Days road trip.

Disclaimer:  This helpful post contains some affiliate links. This means that if you click on any of the links in this post (AND make a purchase) I may receive a  small commission  at  absolutely no cost to you . As such I thank you in advance should you decide to click & buy .

Page Contents

Iceland 12 Days Ring Road Itinerary Overview

Grindavik (1 night) – Hellnar in Snaefellsnes Peninsula (1 night) – Akureyri (1 night) – Myvatn (2 nights) – Hofn (1 night) – Vik (3 nights) – Nesjavellir (Landmannalaugar tour and to explore the Golden Circle, 2 nights) – Reykjavik (1 night)

As you can note, there is a lot of moving about in an Iceland road trip itinerary. Thankfully, the driving distances are not too long and the 24 hour daylight helps! But there are a lot of experiences and must-dos to cover in this amazing land. And do factor in weather. We experienced stormy, windy, rainy conditions for 3 days out of our 12 days in Iceland. You can’t travel light. Icelandic weather is temperamental and can change to rainy with strong winds from sunny blue sky days in a jiffy!

“If you don’t like the weather in Iceland, wait 10 minutes”. You will hear this a lot 🙂

Iceland Ring Road Itinerary for 10 days or 14 days

You could go around the island in 7 to 8 days if you are not into hiking or many adventures. But do note that would be quite exhausting. I would recommend a minimum of 10 days for the Iceland ring road itinerary.

If you are keen on a 10 day Iceland itinerary, cut a day in Snaefellsnes peninsula / Glymur hiking and another to Landmannalaugar. You can choose to spend the second night in Hellnar or Akureyri. Combine the stay between Nesjavellir and Rejkavik (for 2 nights), they are close enough. And voila, you don’t miss out on any of the must-dos on your 10 day Iceland itinerary.

So a 10 day road trip across Iceland would follow this:

Grindavik (1 night) – Hellnar in Snaefellsnes Peninsula or Akureyri (1 night) – Myvatn (2 nights) – Hofn (1 night) – Vik (3 nights) – Reykjavik (2 nights, explore Golden Circle from Reykjavik)

Extending this to a 14 day epic road trip in Iceland is also easy. You can add 2 nights to explore West Fjords region. So a 14 day road trip across Iceland would follow this:

Grindavik (1 night) – Hellnar in Snaefellsnes Peninsula (1 night) – Patreksfjörður (2 nights) Akureyri (1 night) – Myvatn (2 nights) – Hofn (1 night) – Vik (3 nights) – Nesjavellir (Landmannalaugar tour and to explore the Golden Circle, 2 nights) – Reykjavik (1 night)

Travel Resources for Iceland

Use Skyscanner for booking flights.

Rent a car to drive around in Iceland. Get the best car deals on RentalCars and Discover Cars here! Take a look at local car rental companies that have very good customers reviews and awards like Lava car rental .

Use Kiwitaxi for airport transfer if you are not renting a car immediately.

We used Booking.com for all our hotel bookings in Iceland

Get an eSim for your trip for effortless data connection from Airalo .

Day 1: Rejuvenating Blue Lagoon

On landing at the Keflavik airport, the first port of call was to rent a car. Rather pick up the rented car we had already pre-booked, a crucial step to start our Iceland road trip for 12 days. Unlike most international airports, rental cars are not at the airport. We took a shuttle arranged by the rental company to their office located nearby and picked up the 4-wheel drive.

We then drove to our hotel very close to Blue Lagoon. Blue Lagoon is close to Reykjavik and you can choose to do this from the city. But since the capital city was part of our last day, we chose to stay in Grindavik at Northern Lights Inn . It allowed us to go to Blue Lagoon during late evening hours. Being a very popular geothermal experience and one of the best day tours from Reykjavik , it gets very crowded during the day. But less so in the early morning or late evening.

There is a luxurious Retreat Hotel at Blue Lagoon that you can consider to stay on-site.

Do note that Blue Lagoon is not a natural geothermal water body, but water brought over by a power plant. In my opinion, it doesn’t take away from the experience. Perfect antidote to fatigue and jet lag on Day 1 of our 12-days Iceland road trip.

You can pre-book Blue Lagoon entry ticket with transfers from Reykjavik City Centre (option of booking a Comfort or Premium Package). If you are visiting Iceland in winter , you should totally put Blue Lagoon on your itinerary.

[UPDATE: Temporary Closure. Blue Lagoon is currently closed after the volcanic eruption on March 16, 2024. Situation will be reassessed on April 5.]

If you choose to do Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik, then consider these popular tour options:

Day 2 and 3 of the Iceland road trip itinerary: Driving across the beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Our first full day in Iceland started with a bang! A moderate level hike, challenging in parts for anyone who has fear of heights, to visit Glymur waterfall . Definitely one of the best things to do in Iceland in summer .

In a country featuring 10,000 waterfalls, Glymur holds a special place. It is the second highest waterfall in Iceland, but the tallest that is accessible by foot.

A hidden gem that can only be seen via a 1.5 to 2 hour hike to reach the top. And another couple of hours to come down after a river crossing through freezing water. Or you could hike the same way back.

The hike took most of the day and left us high on adrenaline but also on fatigue. If you are not into hiking, it is easy to explore all the West Iceland attractions over 2 days.

Post a late lunch, I didn’t enjoy my visit to the Ytri Tunga seals beach in windy conditions. And afterwards, we decided to give Budir with its famous black church a miss. En route to Fosshotel in the small village of Hellnar, we did explore the rugged beauty of Arnastapi coastline. Black basalt rocks plunge into the deep blue sea, what’s not to like!

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Day 3 of our 12 days in Iceland ring road itinerary started with a tour booked at Vatnashellir lava cave (via Arctic Adventures ). We then climbed to the top of Saxholl volcano crater. Scenic vistas all around!

Snaefellsnes peninsula has scenic coastal drives that during a summer day with the blue sky overhead, just lifts your heart! And while driving around the western peninsula, you cannot missed Kirkjufell , the “ most photographed mountain in Iceland “. A short walk from the car parking lot takes you to the beautiful waterfalls, from where you can gaze upon this arrowhead shaped mountain. If you have more time at Mt. Kirkjufell, you could consider a 2-hour guided kayaking tour to view this mountain from different angles.

And then we were on our way to the Capital of the North, a long drive to Akureyri . We reached the town late in the evening and didn’t have much time exploring it. We spent the night at the spacious one-bedrooom apartment at K16 in the heart of the city. If you are not into hiking, you can easily spend Day 2 exploring Snaefellsness peninsula and Day 3 in Akureyri.

If you choose to explore Snaefellsnes Peninsula as a day trip from Reykjaviik, consider these tours:

Day 4 and 5 of Iceland road trip itinerary: Exploring the Diamond Circle in North Iceland

We wanted to explore all the 4 main sites that constitute the Diamond Circle in North Iceland. This includes the area around Lake Myvatn , the charming Husavik , the mighty waterfall – Dettifoss , and finally, the crescent shaped Asbyrgi canyon .

We did it all! Starting Day 4 of the Iceland itinerary with the whale watching tour with North Sailing in Husavik. We lucked out with a sunny day with calm waters. Some 5 or 6 whales put up a show that kept us enthralled for 3 straight hours!

If you have a day extra, I suggest to add this to Akureyri. Or if you are willing to retrace your steps, drive back to Akureyri after the whale watching tour.

We stopped at Godafoss waterfall en route to our farm stay in Myvatn area. This waterfall is compact and can be seen from both east and west sides. And finally a quick stop at Namafjall or Hverir geothermal area to see the boiling mudpools! The smell of sulphur is quite strong in this area. And the buzzing insects killed any enthusiasm I had to take the hiking path to Namafjall mountain.

Day 5 of our 12 days in Iceland started with the mighty Dettifoss , the largest waterfall in Europe. Again, this can be viewed from the west side (with steps and railings, where we went) and the east side. And then a drive to hike an easy 8-km route over the rim of Asbyrgi canyon in North Iceland . The information centre at Asbyrgi canyon has knowledge staff and can recommend shorter and much longer hike options as well.

We then needed some relaxation post the hike and called it a day. Except that Icelandic summer means 24 hour daylight! Rested and fed post dinner, we had energy to drive close by to explore Grjotagja cave and climbed the Hverjfall volcano crater .

We gave Myvatn nature bath a miss, though I have heard only good things about this natural geothermal spring. You can easily fit this natural geothermal spring if you do not do any long hikes at Asbyrgi canyon. We chose to spend the 2 nights at Vogafjos Farm Resort near Lake Myvatn.

If you base yourself in Akureyri to explore North Iceland, consider these tours:

Day 6: Drive via the charming fjord town of Seydisfjordur

This was almost the mid-point of our Iceland ring road itinerary in 12 days. We started towards Eastern region of Iceland, first with a quick detour to Studlagil canyon . There is a 10 km hiking loop from the car park 1 to get to the bottom of the canyon, but we had a long day ahead. So we went to the viewing platform that is a short distance from the parking lot 4 km ahead. Stunning basalt rock columns and mesmerising blue water awaits! We drove through the town of Egilstaddir, the largest town in East Iceland, only stopped for re-fueling.

Seydisfjordur. This unpronounceable name is for the town that was the highlight of our drive in East Iceland.

And then a mountain pass was crossed to go to the charming fjord town of Seydisfjordur . The adorable church and the rainbow street are a definite attraction!

We drove to this town mainly because my husband wanted to visit the Sound Domes . This is a site specific installation by Lukas Kahne . It is not for everyone (our friends didn’t enjoy it as much).

It started pouring crazily when we headed to Hofn , the city in South east Iceland. The original plan of driving first to the photogenic Vestrahorn or ‘ Batman mountains’ had to be cancelled, and we reached Milk Factory at Hofn, just in time for dinner. If I had to re-do this Iceland road trip itinerary, I might add a night to Hofn and take away a night from Vik. Simply to be closer to glacier and ice lagoon area.

Day 7 of Iceland road trip itinerary: Too much adventure at Vatnajokull glacier

Crazy is the only way to describe Day 7 of our Iceland ring road itinerary. Weather gods that had been kind for the past few days had turned demonic. The rain that started on our drive to Hofn continued while we rushed to the meeting point for glacier hike at Vatnajokull . The meeting point of all tours to Vatnajokull are usually at Skaftafell Visitor Centre. These tours get sold out so you need to pre-book your glacier hike for sure.

We put on all our rain gear and took off, first for a short bus ride at the bottom of the glacier. We then hiked across gravel land to reach the ice. Learning how to walk with crampons was not tough. But the weather conditions steadily worsened as we moved up the glacier. The rain poured so much so that the gravel we walked on at the start of our hike disappeared beneath fast flowing water. We had several guides across tour companies work together to get us to cross back to safety. Phew! What an adventure to remember. This glacier hike was the highlight of all our South Iceland attractions .

We had booked a combo tour and the second part – Zodiac boat ride on the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon – was cancelled by the company. It was pointless to visit the Diamond beach in the stormy weather, so that was a regrettable miss.

We then drove to Vik in South Iceland to reach Hotel Kria . Another popular glacier hike starts at Solheimajokull Glacier , which lies closer to Vik. But if you have a day more to add, I would suggest Hofn to explore the ice lagoon. Do note that if your tour company cancels a trip due to bad weather conditions, you are unlikely to get it rescheduled the next day. These tours are mostly sold out in peak summers.

Browse through tour options in Vatnajokull:

Day 8: Why everyone visits the South coast as part of Iceland ring road itinerary

The South Coast offers geothermal areas, black sand beaches, beautiful waterfalls, pleasing green vistas, glaciers, and ice caves. If you are in Iceland for 7 days or less, I would suggest to only focus on the South Coast, stretching from Reykjavik all the way to the south-east end of Vatnajokull glacier.

Day 8 was meant to explore a remote rugged part of Iceland: Landmannalaugar . Self drive here means taking a 4-wheel drive on unpaved F-roads, away from the smooth ring road. With the weather being what it was, the hotel staff suggested we don’t take a chance driving to the region. We had booked a hike in this region that we tried to cancel altogether.

Did I mention that the one constant in Iceland is NOT the weather?

It stopped raining on Day 8 morning, and we wanted to make it a relaxed day after the bone-drenching glacier hike. We drove to see 2 of the most popular waterfalls near Vik. Seljalandsfoss is one the few waterfalls where you can go behind. It is a lot of fun, but do prepare to get wet so carry a good rain jacket.

Skogafoss is impressive and beautiful, no matter how many waterfalls you have seen. You can climb over 500 steps to a viewing platform above the falls. I found the close view at the bottom of the falls much better than the top view. We had originally planned a short hike that starts on the very top, namely The Waterfall Way , but we gave that a miss.

Day 9: Non-stop adventures to be had!

If we thought the glacier hike was adventurous, we were in for an awakening the next day. Day 9 of our 12 days in Iceland started with stormy weather and a ‘yellow’ wind warning. We had booked a 2-hour ATV tour on the black sand beach. So we head to the ATV tour office in rainy conditions, put on the gear, learn the basics of the machine and take off for yet another adventure.

It is easy to ride an ATV. Though the rain and wind (speed of more than 25 knots / 50 km per hour) made it difficult to focus on the path despite the helmet and face shield. We reached the famous Solheimasandur plane wreck site, a crashed DC-3 plane wreck and got off the machine for a short break. It was crazy to walk in that wind on an open beach. The river crossing on the ATV was my favourite part of the tour!

Did I mention that Iceland is for the active and brave-hearted soul? Visiting a natural ice cave is one of the top things to do in Iceland in winter . But we got to do this in summer! Our second tour of the day got us to the region of the mighty Katla volcano that last erupted in 1918 and is due anytime! Katla ice cave sits beneath the Katla glacier, or Kotlujokull and the Katla volcano.

This is the only natural ice cave that is open all year around. I can’t recommend this Katla ice cave tour with Southwest Adventures enough. You need to pre-book this natural ice cave tour .

Day 10 of Iceland ring road itinerary: More of the scenic South shore

The rainy, stormy weather completely cleared up just when we leaving Vik on Day 10 of our Iceland road trip. We couldn’t leave the area without a visit to Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach. More basalt columns and rock formations. And then we went up on winding roads to Dyrholaey peninsula. On a clear day like what we had, you get panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and black sand beaches on both sides of the cliff.

And then we drove further on, happy with the blue sky and topography only Iceland can provide. Remember the cancelled plan to drive and hike in Landmannalaugar in central Iceland? Well, it was proving difficult to get a refund on the hike tour plus we really wanted to experience this surreal landscape. Just our luck, we managed to reschedule it for Day 11 of our Iceland ring road itinerary. This required redoing our original plan to visit the popular Golden Circle on Day 11 of our Iceland road trip itinerary.

This decided, we went for a quick visit to Geysir geothermal area (one part of the popular Golden Circle) before we checked into the fancy ION Adventure hotel in Nesjavellir. We gave Kerid crater and Gullfoss waterfall a complete miss due to paucity of time.

Browse through some of these tours in South Iceland:

Day 11 of Iceland ring road itinerary: The ethereal Icelandic Highlands

We chose Landmannalaugar, or Rainbow mountains over the Golden Circle? Yes!

Day 11, towards the end of the Iceland ring road itinerary in 12 days, as expected was long and wondrous and adventurous. Lava fields, geothermal activity, rainbow coloured mountains and epic hikes make Landmannalaugar unique in Iceland. To get to Landmannalaugar, you get off the ring road and get on F-roads, which are essentially unpaved gravel tracks.

We had traded self drive to central region of Iceland with a hike tour that included pick up from Selfoss town. If you prefer to reach Landmannalaugar on your own, you can pre-book just the hiking experience.

Within an hour of leaving Selfoss, the bus moved onto F-roads. The drive on F-roads and the river crossings, before we reached the enormous caldera area lined with sleeping tents, was exciting enough.

And then there were the rainbow mountains all around caldera. Shades of brown, red, yellow and green make for a spectacular palette. We did a moderate level hike for about 2.5 hours. After that, some folks on the tour went for a soak in the natural geothermal spring nearby, while others lounged around soaking in the views, until it was time to get back on earth!

Here are some amazing tours to consider for this area:

Day 12: Start with Thingvellir and end up in Reyjavik

We had planned to give Thingvellir national park (another part of the Golden Circle trilogy) a miss. We did find time the next day to give it a quick visit. So Day 12 of our epic Icelandic adventure started with a stroll through Thingvellir.

Where else can you walk, snorkel or dive in the rift between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates?

2 attractions out of 3 of the popular Golden Circle route off the list, not bad!

This was the our last day in Iceland and we were to spend it in the capital city. We drive to Fosshotel Baron in the heart of the city near the main promenade, they had free car parking which was most helpful.

Reykjavik is compact enough to see most of the attractions on a self-guided walking tour. Reykjavik sightseeing for us included Harpa concert hall, Sun Voyager statue, Hallgrimskirkja church, all interesting.

We then went to Perlan museum in the city, which was an enjoyable experience. There were informative videos on the aurora, volcanoes and glaciers that make for a unique geological land, and ofcourse, a freezing ice tunnel. Our epic Iceland trip ended with pub hopping on Laugavegur Street late in the night.

Morning flight back home was on Day 13 of Iceland road trip itinerary, but who’s counting. The Land of Ice and Fire gave us memories for a lifetime!

If you decide to base yourself in Reykjavik and give Nesjavellir a miss, do consider these tours to the Golden Circle from Reykjavik:

Planning an Icelandic road trip

Iceland tourism has been booming in the past decade.Do your research and lock in the places to visit and things to do in Iceland. And trust me, there is a LOT to do in a country this size! Iceland is an expensive destination. So it is best to figure an estimate for your trip cost. Here is my step-by-step guide on estimating cost for a trip to Iceland .

You must book your flight, accommodation and car rental 6 months or more in advance. And book the popular tours, especially on the south coast at least 2 months in advance for summer months.

You must pack suitably for Iceland. Weather even in summer months changes a lot, we experienced 2 days of heavy rainfall in Vik during our trip to Iceland in June . You would end up using a rain jacket, fleece, long sleeved T-shirts, water-proof pants and even a light down jacket from spring to autumn. Winter is a different story altogether. And do pack sturdy water-proof shoes, even if you are not hiking. Here is a complete packing list for Iceland .

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Have you visited the Land of Fire & Ice? What has been your favorite destination or experience there?

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Author: Shweta Singhal

Hi! I am Shweta, the zest behind this blog . I play several roles – parent to a 6-year old, adventure enthusiast, travel blogger, generally open to trying out new things in life. Besides travel, I love books and theatre and art. I would love to hear from you; do drop a comment. Join me on Instagram / Twitter @zestinatote. View all posts by Shweta Singhal

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

15 Epic Iceland Road Trip Itineraries For Your Bucket List

July 12, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

If you are looking for epic Iceland road trip itinerary ideas then look no further! We have gone to Iceland countless times and have picked out some of the best driving itineraries for Iceland. There is so much to do and see in Iceland, so we’ve made this list to help you pick the best way for you to enjoy your next trip to Iceland.

From driving the entire Ring Road or just seeing smaller chunks of the country, there is guaranteed to be an Iceland road trip that is perfect for you. As you plan your trip, keep in mind a few things, like where to stay in Iceland . As you travel around the country you’ll want to know where you can plan to stay. Much of Iceland is uninhabited, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.

You’ll especially want to avoid any rental car mistakes since you’ll be spending your entire trip on the road. Driving in Iceland is actually not as scary as you may think, but you’ll want to be prepared when you are planing an Iceland road trip. It’s one of the best ways to see the stunning beauty of the country without having to rely on bus tours or anything like that. So keep all of that in mind as you look at these 15 epic Iceland road trip itineraries for your bucket list!

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Iceland’s Ring Road: The Ultimate Iceland Road Trip

• The Blue Lagoon
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Svartifoss Waterfall
• Studlagil Canyon
• The Krafla Volcanic Region
• Kirkjufell Mountain

If you want to take the Ultimate Iceland Road Trip, then you’ll want to travel around Ring Road. There are at least 60 amazing stops along Ring Road , but you can pick and choose which ones you want to stop at. We suggest the famous Blue Lagoon before heading to the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. From there, you’ll see several beautiful sights on the road like the Svartifoss Waterfall and Studlagil Canyon.

In the Krafla Volcanic Region, you’ll be able to hike around the rim of a massive crater. Inside the crater, there is a beautiful blue lake and a rocky landscape. Towards the end of your Iceland road trip, you’ll see some more beautiful sights and can even take some optional detours to places like the Westfjords. Admire the gorgeous landscape around Kirkjufell Mountain before heading to your final stop. End your Iceland road trip in the capital city of Reykjavik before heading home.

Iceland South Coast Road Trip

• Seljalandsfoss
• Reykjadalur Hot Springs

When you are exploring Iceland’s South Coast there are so many beautiful stops you can make. There are stunning massive waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. You can hike near them and get pretty close to the rushing water. There are views of rivers, valleys, and mountains in the distinct Iceland landscape along the South Coast.

Make sure you spend some time at the Reykjadalur Hot Springs. Take a dip in the relaxing pools while you admire the view. It is actually more like a hot river, and it has become a popular area for people to stop and enjoy the naturally warm water. You’ll also get to see some beautiful coastal views on your Iceland road trip like the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

3 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

• Reykjavik And The Golden Circle
• Seljavallalaug Hot Spring
• Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

If you only have three days to spend in Iceland , you are going to want an itinerary in Iceland that hits the highlights. Your first full day will be spent in Reykjavik and exploring The Golden Circle. The Golden Circle is one of the most popular areas in Iceland to visit. You’ll see sites like the Geysir Hot Spring Area, Brúarfoss Waterfall, and the Gullfoss Waterfall. On your second day, relax in the Seljavallalaug Hot Spring.

You can admire beautiful views while you soak in the warm waters. While you drive you’ll also see more massive waterfalls and even an airplane wreck. Spend the night in the town of Vik. You can stock up on some snacks, fill up the tank, and enjoy a night in small-town Iceland. You’ll end your road trip in Iceland around Vik, where you can see sites like the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon and black sand beaches.

4 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

• Solheimasandur Plane Wreck
• Vestrahorn Mountain

With four days in Iceland , you can see a bit more of the beautiful country. Spend a day around Reykjavic and soak in the Reykjadalur Hot Springs. Explore downtown Reykjavic, sample some local foods, or stop into one of the unique museums. On day two you’ll explore Iceland’s South Coast while you hike to waterfalls, soak in more hot springs, and visit an ancient replica farm. Spend some time in the hidden oasis of Gjain and a valley of lava rock.

One of the most popular unique attractions in Iceland is the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck. Spend some time on your third day to drive out to the famous wreckage. You’ll also have time to stroll on black sand beaches and climb basalt columns. On the last day of your itinerary for Iceland take some time to see the majestic Vestrahorn Mountain and the nearby canyons and hot springs before arriving back in Reykjavic.

5 Day Icleand Road Trip Itinerary

• Haifoss Waterfall
• Nauthusagil Canyon
• Hjorleifshofdi Promontory
• Þakgil Canyon

During your five days in Iceland , you’ll spend a lot of time on the road making stops along the way. But don’t be fooled, most of the many stops are only within a few minutes of each other. Most of your days will be spent enjoying the beautiful and changing Iceland landscape. Admire the Haifoss Waterfall and many others on your first day of driving. On day two you’ll get to hike around some amazing mountain landscapes like the Nauthusagil Canyon.

Your third day will be spent at iconic natural formations like the Hjorleifshofdi Promontory and Iceland’s national parks. For your fourth day, spend some time hiking through the massively impressive and beautiful Þakgil Canyon. You’ll also soak in hot tubs, admire the Lomagnupur Mountain, and spend the night in Vik. On your last day, you can explore the capital city of Reykjavic, or go back to any of the previous spots you might have missed or want to spend more time at.

Iceland’s Golden Circle Road Trip

• Thingvellir National Park
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Strokkur Geyser
• Kerid Crater

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular driving routes in Iceland. You can easily drive the entire route in a day, but if you want to take your time, consider doing it in a couple of days. As you drive you’ll see some of the spots that are often considered the ‘must see’ parts of Iceland. Spend a few hours exploring Thingvellir National Park and hiking around Gullfoss waterfall.

On your itinerary, you’ll also have time to see the famous Strokkur Geyser. There are a few stops where you can hike, admire waterfalls, or soak in hot springs. Towards the end of your driving itinerary in Iceland, you’ll have time to stop at Kerid Crater. You can walk around the rim, hike down to the lake that fills the crater, and admire the colorful rock and sediment inside the crater.

Best Of Iceland Waterfalls Road Trip

• Glymur Waterfall
• Mulagljufur Canyon
• Selfoss Waterfall

For this Best of Iceland Waterfalls Road Trip, you’ll start at the Glymur Waterfall. Glymur Waterfall is just outside of Reykjavik, which makes it the perfect first stop on your Iceland waterfalls road trip. From there you’ll continue along the iconic Golden Circle area of Iceland to the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall. Gullfoss is one of the most recognizable Iceland waterfalls as it is a popular stop for people visiting the country.

As you continue on your road trip in Iceland you’ll want to stop at Mulaglijufur Canyon where you can see and hike to several waterfalls all at one spot. Your waterfalls of Iceland itinerary also includes stops at the magnificent Hengifoss and Selfoss Waterfall. You can easily spend a few days traveling along Southern Iceland and see some of the most amazing waterfalls.

North Iceland Road Trip

• Krafla Volcanic Region
• The Myvatn Nature Baths
• Aldeyjarfoss

The North Iceland Road Trip is perfect if you are looking for a little bit more of a secluded experience. Most people who travel to Iceland tend to stick to Southern Iceland and the many sites there. But there are just as many beautiful things to see in Northern Iceland. Admire the stunning Dettifoss Waterfall before seeing the whale watching capital of Europe, the small town of Husavik. From there be amazed by the Krafla Volcanic Region. There you’ll be able to see craters, lakes, and more unique landscapes.

Stop for a dip in the Myvatn Nature Baths to experience a lagoon-style outdoor bath. The incredible milky blue water will be the perfect way to rest and relax after hiking waterfalls and the volcanic region. One of your last stops is the stunning Aldeyarfoss waterfall and hot spring. In the summer months, you can drive right up to the area, but in the winter you’ll need to hike. But the stunning view makes it worth it. End your trip in the largest city in the North, Akureyri.

Westfjords Road Trip

• Latrabjarg Cliffs
• Breiðavík Golden Beach
• Rauðasandur Red Sand Beach
• Holmavik Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft

The Westfjords is a really fun and interesting part of Iceland. There are a few things you’ll need to know before visiting Iceland’s Westfjords . Much of it can be very difficult to reach during Iceland’s winter months, so this is best explored when there is a smaller chance of icy weather. If you want to see some super cute puffins, start your trip at the Latrabjarg Cliffs. From there, head to some of the amazing and unique beaches in the Westfjords. The Breiðavík Golden Beach and the Rauðasandur Red Sand Beach are both known for their unique sand colors and beautiful views.

One of the most popular things to see in the Westfjords is Dynjandi, a massive lacy and cascading waterfall. It is very wide and absolutely stunning in person. You don’t want to miss it. End your trip with a little bit of Icelandic culture. At the Holmavik Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft, you’ll learn about a unique part of Iceland’s cultural history. It’s a super unique stop on this Iceland road trip itinerary.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula Road Trip

• The Arnarstapi To Hellnar Cliff Walk
• The Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
• Londrangar Basalt Cliffs
• Landbrotalaug Hot Springs

If you are looking for a shorter road trip in Iceland, consider the Snaefellsnes Peninsula Road Trip. There are several stops in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula , but it is a small part of Iceland, so it won’t take you too long to hit all of the best ones. Your first stop is Kirkjufell Mountain, which is Iceland’s most famous mountain. You will probably recognize it from several travel magazines and popular Iceland Instagram posts. From there, experience the Arnarstapi to Hellnar Cliff Walk.

Experience amazing views while hiking at the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge. It’s not too far from the cliff walk and is actually one of the lesser-known attractions on the peninsula. Head to the coast before making your way to the end of your road trip in Iceland to see the stunning Londrangar Basalt Cliffs. From there, you’ll end your trip by taking some time to rest and relax after hiking the area at the Landbrotalaug Hot Springs. It can be tricky to find, and that means it is not a huge tourist area. Often times you’ll find you are the only ones who have made the trip to discover the geothermal pool on the abandoned farm.

East Fjords Road Trip Itinerary

• Laekjavik Coast
• Djupavogskorin Geothermal Pool
• Streitisviti Lighthouse

The East Fjords Road Trip will take you along a portion of Iceland’s Southeastern Coast and a little bit inland. It is a beautiful part of the country and much of it is along the Ring Road . Start by admiring the unusual rock formations along the Laekjavik Coast. It is a black sand beach with rectangular rock formations jutting out from the ocean along the shore.

Continue your driving itinerary for Iceland’s East Fjords with a stop at the Streitisviti Lighthouse. It is a uniquely designed lighthouse on the coast built-in 1922. Next head up the coast to the Gufufoss waterfall. Spend some time hiking the area and admire the beautiful plunging waterfall. On your way back home, head a little inland to the Hengifoss waterfall. It is the 3rd highest waterfall in Iceland and well worth a little bit of a detour as you end your East Fjords road trip in Iceland.

Icelandic Highlands Road Trip

• Landmannalaugar
• Vatnajökull Glacier and National Park
• Jökulsárlón

The Icelandic Highlands is a plateau in Southern Iceland that is sparsely inhabited. Your Icelandic Highlands Road Trip will give you the opportunity to see some of the most stunning and uninhabited parts of the country. In Thorsmork take some time to camp and hike in the valley. It is a beautiful nature reserve where you can see all kinds of animals in Iceland . It can be difficult to get to though, so consider taking a guided tour of Thorsmork . Continue through the Icelandic Highlands and make a stop at the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, one of the best National Parks in Iceland .

One of the most popular things to see there is Landmannalaugar which is the edge of the Laugahraun lava field. You’ll be able to experience some stunning views that were created by a volcanic eruption in the 1400s. Your next stop is another National Park, Vatnajökull. The entire park is centered around the massive Vatnajökull glacier which is an absolute must-see. End your tour of the beautiful highlands at Jökulsárlón, the glacial lake just on the edge of Vatnajökull National Park.

Small Towns In Iceland Road Trip

• Seyðisfjörður
• Stykkishólmur

On the Small Towns in Iceland Road Trip, you’ll drive around almost the entire country stopping at so many cute small towns along the way. In Seyðisfjörður you’ll get a taste of what it is like to live in Iceland’s Eastern Fjords. It is an adorable town off the Ring Road and has the Fjarðarheiði Mountain Pass which connects the plateau it’s on to the rest of Iceland. From there head to the charming village of Reykjahlíð which has a population of just over 220. It is on the shores of Lake Mývatn which is a beautiful place to stop.

Continue around Iceland’s Northern coast and towards the Snæfellsnes peninsula where you’ll find the beautiful town of Stykkishólmur. It is the main town on the peninsula and you’ll find a few tourist attractions there. As you make your way around Iceland, stop in Heimaey, which is actually an island just off of Iceland’s southern coast. You’ll need to take either the ferry or fly to get there, but it is worth the trip. End your road trip in Iceland in the town of Höfn. There you’ll be able to see massive glaciers while you stroll through town.

Icelandic Hot Springs Road Trip

• Blue Lagoon
• Reykjadalur Hot Spring
• Secret Lagoon
• Hrunalaug Hot Spring
• Seljavallalaug Hot Springs

One of the things Iceland is most known for is its Hot Spring culture. It is one of the most popular things to do in Iceland, so why not take an Icelandic Hot Springs Road Trip. Start at the iconic Blue Lagoon just outside of Reykjavik. This one is pretty touristy, but it is one of the most well-known. Next, you’ll want to stop at Sky Lagoon and then the Reykjadalur Hot Spring. Both are still pretty close to Reykjavic, but they aren’t as full of tourists as the Blue Lagoon.

As you head farther from Reykjavic, make stops at the Secret Lagoon and then the Hrunalaug Hot Springs. Hrunalaug is tucked away in the mountains, so it is much quieter and you get some absolutely stunning views. Head father down Iceland’s southern coast to Seljavallalaug Hot Springs. It is incredibly dreamy you take an easy hike to get there, which makes it more secluded within the mountains.

It is Iceland’s oldest man-made swimming pool, but keep in mind it is not nearly as hot as you might expect from an Iceland hot spring. If you have the time, drive out to the Djupavogskorin Geothermal Pool to finish your Iceland road trip of the best hot springs.

Hidden Gems In Iceland Road Trip

• Valahnukamol
• Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Viking Village Film Set
• Studlagil Basalt Canyon

There are so many hidden gems in Iceland that they deserve their own road trip. In Valahnukamol you’ll discover a hidden area of beach where you’ll find otherworldly rocks jutting out from the ocean as waves crash against them. It isn’t a well-known area, which is why it’s a hidden gem, and that also means it’s not full of tourists. At the Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon, you’ll find a beautiful two square mile lagoon, with very few tourists. It is just off the Ring Road, but not very crowded at all.

One of the more unique things to see in Iceland is the Viking Village Film Set. It was built in 2010 and was meant to resemble an old Viking village for a movie that was being filmed in the area. It is just off of a gravel road outside of Hofn and not many people know about it. It’s a cool way to experience a taste of early life in Iceland. End your trip at the stunning hidden gem that is the Studlagil Basalt Canyon. The canyon is made of towering basalt rock columns with a beautiful blue glacial river flowing through it. It is an absolute must-see, and fairly free of tourists.

If you are thinking of taking an Iceland road trip, we are sure that one of these amazing adventures is going to be the perfect Iceland road trip itinerary for you. Whether it’s your first time visiting Iceland or your fifth time, each of these road trip itineraries offers unique experiences, stunning views, and more.

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