Iceland itinerary (7, 10 & 14 days)

Picture yourself easing into a hot spring while the Northern Lights ripple across the sky, or standing close enough to a waterfall that the spray soaks your jacket. That’s Iceland: glaciers, volcanoes, stretches of black sand, and summer days that seem to have no end.

The country is about the size of Kentucky, so it’s possible to see a lot in a single trip, but deciding where to go and how to pace it isn’t always straightforward. Rough Guides’ local experts can help with that,  putting together a trip that fits both your schedule and what you want to see, so you don’t have to stress about the details.
 

Best Iceland itinerary at a glance

How much time you have makes a big difference. A long weekend is enough for the Golden Circle and a section of the South Coast, while two weeks gives you time to circle the whole island.

• 7 days in Iceland: A good introduction. You can see Reykjavík, the Golden Circle (Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, the black sand at Reynisfjara, and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. With careful timing, you can still squeeze in the Blue Lagoon and, in winter, a Northern Lights tour.
• 10 days in Iceland: Adds more variety. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in Miniature” and fits well here, or you can head east for smaller towns and coastal drives. With an efficient schedule, you might even reach the Westfjords. Thi
  s length works well if you want both well-known sights and quieter corners.
• 14 days in Iceland: Time for the full circle. You can cover all regions, including the remote Westfjords, smaller peninsulas, and Highland tracks that are open in summer. Two weeks lets you balance major landmarks with detours to puffin cliffs, geothermal valleys, and fishing villages.
   

7 days in Iceland itinerary

This week in Iceland moves between well-known landmarks and quieter wilderness. Geysers erupt, waterfalls crash into deep canyons, black sand stretches along the coast, and the green valleys of Thorsmork sit in the shadow of glaciers. Here’s what to do with just a week in Iceland.

Day 1: The Golden Circle

Start with Iceland’s classic route. At Thingvellir National Park, the ground literally splits between the North American and Eurasian plates, creating a dramatic rift valley that’s also home to Iceland’s first parliament. At the Geysir geothermal field, Strokkur shoots boiling water skyward every few minutes. End at Gullfoss, where the Hvítá River plunges into a canyon, throwing up mist that often shimmers with rainbows.

Day 2: The Golden Circle

Spend the day dipping into Iceland’s geothermal side. At Laugarvatn, locals still bake rye bread in hot earth, steaming and dense when it comes out. The Secret Lagoon is nearby, a natural pool that’s been used for centuries. If you’re up for something unusual, snorkeling in the Silfra fissure puts you between tectonic plates, the water so clear you can see over 300 feet (100 m) ahead.

Insider tip: Early morning sessions at Silfra feel calmer, with fewer people in the water.
 

Day 3: Thorsmork Nature Reserve

The road into Thorsmork cuts across unbridged rivers, highland buses rumbling through shallow crossings before reaching the valley. Three glaciers surround this sheltered green pocket, where birch forests grow and trails wind through gorges and up ridges. From the heights, you can look out across Tindfjallajökull, Eyjafjallajökull, and Mýrdalsjökull, the peaks often streaked with snow. A mild microclimate makes the valley surprisingly lush.

Insider tip: Weather here changes fast. Extra layers and waterproof gear keep a hike comfortable even in sudden rain.

Day 4: South coast waterfalls and black beaches

Travel time: 2 hours from Thorsmork to the south coast

Back on the Ring Road, you’ll start with Seljalandsfoss, a 200-foot (60 m) waterfall where a path lets you walk behind the cascade for a unique view from inside the spray. A little farther east is Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s largest waterfalls, dropping in a wide sheet that often throws rainbows across the mist.

Continue to Reynisfjara, a black sand beach famous for its tall basalt columns and offshore sea stacks called Reynisdrangar, which rise from the waves like stone towers. Finish the day at Dyrhólaey, a rocky headland with an enormous sea arch and sweeping views along the coast. In summer, its cliffs are also home to nesting puffins.
 

Day 5: Glaciers of southeast Iceland

Travel time: 3 hours from the south coast to Jokulsarlon

As you head east, Vatnajökull glacier looms larger until you reach Jökulsárlón lagoon. Icebergs break away here and drift toward the sea, pieces washing up on Diamond Beach where they sparkle against black sand. Not far away, trails in Skaftafell lead to Svartifoss, its basalt-column backdrop said to have inspired Reykjavik’s Hallgrímskirkja. If you have time, detour to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, a winding green canyon that winds like a serpent through green slopes and sheer cliffs, a reminder of the glacial rivers that carved it long ago.

Day 6: Return journey to Reykjavik

Travel time: 4.5 hours from Jokulsarlon to Reykjavik

The return drive has its own highlights. Many travelers stop at Sólheimasandur to walk out to the DC-3 plane wreck, its weathered frame a stark landmark on the black sand plain. Back in Reykjavik, climb Hallgrímskirkja for views across the city and bay. You can take some to to look around Laugavegur for shops and cafés, then circle Tjörnin pond with its rows of painted houses. The old harbor is worth a visit for its restaurants and galleries, and Harpa Concert Hall glitters in the evening light.
 

Day 7: Reykjavik

End the trip by diving into Icelandic culture. A walking food tour introduces traditions through flavors, from fermented shark to creamy skyr. Out in Faxaflói Bay, you might spot humpbacks or dolphins on a whale-watching boat. As evening falls, soak in the Sky Lagoon, where the warm infinity pool seems to fade into the Atlantic. Moving between hot water and cool ocean air is a perfect way to close out the week.
 

10 days in Iceland itinerary

This ten-day route moves through some of Iceland’s most dramatic regions, from the remote Westfjords to the volcanic landscapes of the north. Powerful waterfalls, puffin colonies on high cliffs, and long stretches of coastline all fall along the way. With ten days, there is time to reach quieter areas while still taking in the country’s well-known highlights.

Day 1: West Iceland & Borgarfjordur

The Borgarfjörður region opens the journey with waterfalls, hot springs, and traces of medieval history. Hraunfossar spills out from beneath a lava field while Barnafoss churns through a narrow gorge. At Deildartunguhver, 47 gallons (180 liters) of boiling water burst from the earth every second, filling the valley with steam. Reykholt connects to Iceland’s literary past, home to the writer and scholar Snorri Sturluson. A hike to Glymur waterfall, the second highest in Iceland at 650 feet (198 meters), brings views over valleys and ravines shaped by both fire and water.

Day 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula pulls together many of Iceland’s landscapes in a single stretch of coast. Snæfellsjökull volcano, capped with ice, dominates the horizon, the same peak that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Kirkjufell rises in sharp profile, reflected in the small waterfalls below. Djúpalónssandur’s black beach is scattered with smooth pebbles and fragments of shipwrecks..

At Hellnar and Arnarstapi, cliffs curve into arches carved by waves, while the black church at Budir stands stark against grasslands. In summer, boats leave from Ólafsvík to search for orcas and sperm whales.
 

Day 3: Southern Westfjords

The Westfjords begin with cliffs, red sands, and winding mountain roads. Latrabjarg runs for 9 miles (14 kilometers), its cliffs soaring 1,400 feet (441 meters) above the Atlantic. In summer, puffins nest here in huge numbers, unbothered by people watching from the edge. Raudasandur stretches nearby, its unusual red sand created by crushed scallop shells. 

At Breidavik, seals often gather on the beach, basking in the quiet. The drive itself reveals just how remote the region is, twisting past rugged headlands, small fishing hamlets, and sudden views of open ocean. It feels far from Iceland’s busier routes and more accessible landscapes.

Day 4: Northern Westfjords

The fjords deepen with waterfalls, villages, and long sandy inlets. Dynjandi dominates the landscape, a wide cascade dropping more than 300 feet (100 meters) in seven distinct tiers. Along Arnarfjörður, ruins of turf farms and abandoned homes show the challenges of surviving harsh winters. Þingeyri carries on as a small fishing village, its harbor filled with boats. At Önundarfjörður, a sweeping golden beach stretches unexpectedly along the coast, framed by mountains. The road follows fjords and ridges for hours, with views that shift at every bend.
 

Day 5: Ísafjörður Bay

In Ísafjörður, colorful wooden houses line narrow streets, and the Maritime Museum traces centuries of fishing traditions. At Bolungarvík, the restored Ösvör fishing station shows how crews once salted and dried fish while living in turf huts. Hvítanes cape brings the sight of seals resting on the rocks. At Litlibær, a turf farmhouse serves waffles in a setting that feels frozen in time. Inland, the glacial valley of Kaldalón opens into silence, with trails leading toward ice and jagged mountain ridges.

Insider tip: Begin at the Maritime Museum for context before exploring the bay.

Day 6: Strandir & Dalir

The coastal road runs along cliffs and small farms where traditions have lasted for generations. Steam rises from seaside hot pots at Drangsnes, where people soak with the North Atlantic stretching out ahead.

In Hólmavík, the Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft gathers charms, grimoires, and stories from Iceland’s folklore. Inland, the reconstructed Eiríksstaðir longhouse brings Viking-era life into focus, its low timber walls standing in the valley. Villages along the way feel shaped as much by stories and superstition as by the elements.

Insider tip: Pack swimwear for Drangsnes; the hot pots are quiet and informal.

Day 7: North West Iceland & Akureyri

Goðafoss marks the shift into the north, a wide waterfall where glacial water plunges into a gorge. Akureyri spreads along the fjord, framed by mountains, with botanical gardens, a striking modern church, and small cafés and galleries.

The drive across the Tröllaskagi Peninsula winds over sharp headlands and steep ridges to Siglufjörður, once Iceland’s herring capital. At the Herring Era Museum, the story of that boom and bust comes alive. Nearby, Hvítserkur sea stack rises from the surf, shaped like a creature frozen in stone, while Borgarvirki fortress looks out from its basalt ridge.

Insider tip: Goðafoss glows in late afternoon light.

Day 8: Lake Mývatn

At Hverir, steam and sulfur curl across the ground, bubbling mud pools staining the earth red and yellow. The black ridges of the Leirhnjúkur lava fields show the scars of recent eruptions. Dimmuborgir rises in strange towers of lava, while Skútustaðagígar displays craters formed where molten rock met water.

Grjótagjá cave hides a hot spring glowing in the dark. Around the lake, bird calls carry over the wetlands. At the Mývatn Nature Baths, pale blue pools open to mountains and sky, a calm place to soak after a day in the heat and lava.

Insider tip: Evenings are quieter at the Nature Baths.

Day 9: Dettifoss & Jökulsárgljúfur

Dettifoss thunders into a canyon, dropping 144 feet (44 meters) in a constant cloud of spray. The west bank trail brings you close to the raw force of the water. North of here, Ásbyrgi canyon curves in a horseshoe shape, its cliffs sheltering birch trees and a still pond. Jökulsárgljúfur stretches deep into the landscape, carved by glacial floods.

In Vesturdalur, Hljóðaklettar’s clustered rocks form arches and hollows shaped by water and time. At the coast, Húsavík spreads along the bay, its harbor filled with boats heading out in search of humpbacks and blue whales.

Insider tip: Approach Dettifoss from the west for the best views.

Day 10: Reykjavík

Reykjavík closes the trip with a city small enough to cross on foot yet filled with history and culture. Hallgrímskirkja towers above the streets, its viewing deck opening onto sea and mountains. Laugavegur street hums with shops, galleries, and cafés, while Austurvöllur square brings a slower rhythm in the city center.

Tjörnin pond reflects rooftops and sky, alive with swans and ducks. Along the harbor, Harpa Concert Hall glitters with glass panels, and the Sun Voyager sculpture points toward the horizon. The National Museum gathers Iceland’s history into one place, connecting the stories of the road back to the city.

Insider tip: Save the National Museum for your final afternoon.
 

14 days in Iceland itinerary

Two weeks on Iceland’s Ring Road give you time to slow down. You see the famous waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier lagoons, but you also reach the small towns and quiet stretches that often get missed. Driving around the island in 14 days gives you enough time for exploration with rest, reaching remote corners as well as Iceland’s most famous sights.

Day 1: West Iceland & Borgarfjordur

Leaving Reykjavík, the road heads north into Borgarfjörður, where rivers cut through old lava fields. The first stop is Hraunfossar, where streams of clear water pour from beneath the rock into the Hvítá River. Just upstream, Barnafoss forces its way through a narrow gorge, the water frothing white against dark stone.

Steam hangs over Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe, before the road continues into the valley around Reykholt. This small village was once home to Snorri Sturluson, the medieval scholar whose sagas are remembered at the Snorrastofa cultural center. Toward the end of the day, a trail climbs into the canyon of Glymur, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall at 650 feet (198 meters).

Day 2: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

From Borgarfjörður it is an easy drive west onto the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a stretch often described as Iceland in miniature. The glacier-topped Snæfellsjökull volcano dominates the western horizon, its slopes once imagined by Jules Verne as the entry point to the center of the earth. Along the coast, Kirkjufell rises in a perfect cone, reflected in the small waterfalls at its base. 

The road then winds to Djúpalónssandur, where black pebbles and shipwreck remains scatter the beach, before continuing to Arnarstapi and Hellnar, where basalt cliffs curve into arches carved by the sea. Further inland, the Berserkjahraun lava field spreads in frozen waves of stone, while the small black church at Búðir stands stark against the open fields. 
 

Day 3: North West Iceland & Akureyri

The Ring Road turns inland toward Akureyri, the largest town in the north. The drive follows Eyjafjörður, where snowcapped peaks rise steeply on both sides. In town, cafés line the streets and the botanical garden shelters plants from across the Arctic.

Not far away, the Skjálfandafljót River plunges over Goðafoss, a wide curtain of water that has carried stories since Iceland’s conversion to Christianity. From here the road bends north across the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. It passes through fishing villages like Siglufjörður, once the capital of herring, where warehouses now hold a museum about the boom years. Along the coast, the Hvítserkur sea stack stands in the surf like a creature drinking from the waves.

Day 4: Lake Mývatn

From Akureyri the road crosses volcanic highlands before dropping into the basin of Lake Mývatn. Steam rises from the ground at Hverir, where bubbling mud pools stain the earth red and yellow.

To the east, the lava fields of Leirhnjúkur stretch black against the sky, reminders of eruptions still within living memory. Trails wind through Dimmuborgir, a labyrinth of lava towers known as the Dark Castles, and along the southern shore lie the Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters, shaped when lava met wetlands. Grjótagjá cave hides a hot spring in its shadowy depths, glowing blue in the dim light. By evening, the road loops back to the Mývatn Nature Baths.
 

Day 5: Dettifoss, Jökulsárgljúfur & Húsavík

North of Mývatn the road reaches Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, where a wall of glacial water crashes into the canyon below. The Jökulsárgljúfur valley continues north with a string of sights.

Ásbyrgi canyon curves in a horseshoe shape, its cliffs sheltering birch woods and a still pond at Botnstjörn. In Vesturdalur, unusual basalt formations known as Hljóðaklettar create arches and hollows that echo with sound. At the coast lies Húsavík, a small harbor town facing Skjálfandi Bay. Boats depart in search of humpbacks and blue whales, while on shore the whale museum explores the life of these giants of the sea.

Day 6: Eastfjords villages

The Ring Road clings to the base of cliffs as it threads into the Eastfjords, where mountains fall straight into the sea.

Small detours lead into remote valleys such as Mjóifjörður, a place with only a handful of year-round residents. At its edge, the Dalatangi lighthouse stands as the country’s easternmost point.

Back on the main road, Seyðisfjörður appears at the end of a winding pass, its blue church fronted by a rainbow-painted street. Waterfalls stream down the slopes surrounding the town. Further along, Borgarfjörður Eystri reveals colorful rhyolite ridges and is known for its puffin colonies in summer as well as wandering reindeer in winter.
 

Day 7: The Eastfjords

The road continues south through valleys and along narrow fjords. At Lake Lagarfljót, stories tell of a serpent that has lived in the dark waters for more than seven centuries. On its shore lies Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest, where trails wind among birch and spruce. Nearby, Hengifoss drops 420 feet (128 meters), the cliffs around it striped with bands of red clay.

Not far away, Stuðlagil canyon reveals a turquoise river hemmed in by walls of basalt. Toward evening, the day can finish at Vök Baths, where geothermal pools float directly on Lake Urriðavatn, steam rising as mountains frame the horizon.

Day 8: Skaftafell National Park

The Ring Road bends south toward Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. Trails in Skaftafell lead through birch woods and out to Svartifoss, where a narrow fall drops between dark basalt columns.

Beyond the park, Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon cuts deep into the earth, its green slopes shaped by glacial rivers. Near the coast lies Jökulsárlón, a wide lagoon where icebergs drift slowly from Breiðamerkurjökull toward the sea. Just across the road, Diamond Beach sparkles with chunks of ice washed ashore on black sand. 
 

Day 9: South coast waterfalls

The south coast gathers waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic beaches in one sweep. Seljalandsfoss drops 200 feet (60 m), with a path slipping behind its curtain of water. Skogafoss falls the same distance, wider at 82 feet (25 m), mist rising high. A staircase climbs 527 steps to the top.

Reynisfjara beach stretches black and windswept, waves hammering against basalt stacks called Reynisdrangar, said to be trolls turned to stone. Dyrholaey’s arch rises 390 feet (120 m) above the sea, cliffs alive with puffins in summer. On Solheimajokull, glacier walks lead into crevasses and sculpted ridges of blue ice.

Day 10: Golden Circle

The Golden Circle threads together three of Iceland’s most famous natural landmarks. At the Geysir geothermal field, Strokkur erupts every few minutes, water shooting 50 to 65 feet (15–20 m). Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls,” plunges 105 feet (32 m) in two stages into a narrow canyon, spray rising in the light. 

Thingvellir National Park shows the divide between North American and Eurasian plates and once held Iceland’s first parliament in 930 AD. Nearby, Kerid crater glows blue-green against its volcanic rim. Silfra fissure runs clear with glacial water, where divers and snorkelers drift between the continents.
 

Day 11: Reykjavík

After circling the countryside, Reykjavík feels compact and lively. Hallgrímskirkja church rises at the center, its tower giving a view across rooftops and sea. Laugavegur street is lined with cafés, design shops, and galleries, while Austurvöllur square offers open space in front of the parliament. By Tjörnin pond, swans and ducks gather on the water. 

Along the waterfront, be sure to stop at Harpa Concert Hall to see the shifting light in its glass walls, and the Sun Voyager sculpture that faces the horizon. At Perlan, exhibitions on glaciers and volcanoes sit beneath a dome with views stretching in every direction.

Day 12: Reykjanes Peninsula

The road south of Reykjavík leads into Reykjanes, where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge rises onto land. Steam vents and bubbling mud pools mark Gunnuhver, tied to stories of a restless spirit.

Lake Kleifarvatn lies in a volcanic basin, its shoreline changed by earthquakes. Nearby, the small Grænavatn crater glows an unusual green. At Reykjanestá, cliffs are packed with seabirds and sea stacks rise from the surf. A symbolic bridge spans the rift between the continents. The day often ends at the Blue Lagoon, where milky pools lie in a field of lava, steam drifting across the surface.
 

Day 13: Þórsmörk Nature Reserve

Heading inland again, rough tracks and river crossings lead into Þórsmörk, a valley between three glaciers. The approach feels remote, but inside the reserve trails climb into canyons and along ridges.

Views open onto Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, glaciers whose eruptions have shaped the land around them. The valley itself holds Iceland’s largest birch forest, a green patchwork against black volcanic soil. Moss spreads thick across the floor, and rare plants like mountain ash grow here.

The weather shifts quickly, mist and sun trading places within hours, giving the hikes an ever-changing backdrop.

Day 14: Westman Islands

The final leg takes a short ferry ride to the Westman Islands, just off the south coast. On Heimaey, the 1973 eruption of Eldfell covered part of the town in lava and ash.

At Eldheimar Museum, excavated houses show how residents fled and later returned. A walk up the volcano reveals views across the archipelago and back to the mainland. Stórhöfði headland holds cliffs crowded with puffins each summer, while the Surtsey exhibition explains how a new island rose from the sea in 1963. 
 

Personalize your Iceland travel itinerary

No two trips to Iceland look the same. Some travelers focus on photography, others want to trace Viking history, or spend long evenings in geothermal pools. Rough Guides’ local experts, who live in Iceland and know the country inside out, can shape an itinerary around what matters most to you, while also factoring in daylight hours, road conditions, and seasonal closures.

They’ll take care of the details, from booking guesthouses with hot tubs to arranging private super jeep tours, and they’re on hand around the clock if the weather shifts your plans. If you’re ready to start planning, Rough Guides’ local experts can help put it all together. Request a free trip plan from us to get started.
 

Other Iceland travel itineraries

Iceland can be explored in many ways depending on how much time you have and what you want to see. Some travelers stick to Reykjavik and day trips to places like the Golden Circle or the South Coast, while others take the Ring Road for a full circuit around the island.

Best Reykjavik itinerary

Spend a week getting to know Iceland’s capital and the landscapes around it. In Reykjavik, you can dive into museums, modern architecture, and a nightlife that runs late. Day trips will take you to hot springs, waterfalls, and the Golden Circle, one of the country’s most well-known routes. The city can be explored by foot, and a car is best for exploring outside of the city.

• Days 1 & 2: Reykjavik City & the Golden Circle
  • Start with a walk through central Reykjavik, then climb Hallgrimskirkja for wide city views, and spend time in the harbor district with its cafes and art spaces. On day two, follow the Golden Circle to Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss before returning to the city.
• Days 3 & 4: Geothermal lagoons & South Coast waterfalls
  • Spend a few hours at the Blue Lagoon, then continue along the south coast. Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls before reaching Reynisfjara’s black sand beach.
• Days 5 & 6: Cultural deep dive and whale watching
  • Join a Reykjavik food tour to try traditional dishes and fresh seafood, then spend time in the city’s museums covering Viking history and modern art. The next day, take a whale-watching trip from the old harbor with views of humpbacks, dolphins, and surrounding mountains.
• Day 7: Final day in Reykjavik
  • Take the ferry to Videy Island for walking paths and outdoor art. Back in Reykjavik, enjoy a final dinner and end your trip with either a Northern Lights cruise in winter or a midnight sun tour in summer.

Best Iceland spa and wellness itinerary

This week-long trip focuses on geothermal pools and slow-paced travel. You’ll split time between Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and the south coast, with plenty of soaking along the way.

• Days 1 & 2: Reykjavik & Sky Lagoon
  • Begin gently at Sky Lagoon, an oceanside pool where the seven-step ritual leaves you refreshed. The next day, explore downtown Reykjavik at your own pace and spend the evening at Laugardalslaug, the city’s largest geothermal pool, complete with hot tubs and steam baths.
• Days 3 & 4: Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon
  • Drive the Golden Circle, but linger instead of rushing. Pause at Thingvellir’s rift valley and Gullfoss before ending with a long soak at the Secret Lagoon in Fludir. The following day, try Laugarvatn Fontana’s lakeside steam baths, where geothermal vents bubble right at the water’s edge, then settle into a countryside guesthouse.
• Days 5 & 6: South Coast
  • Stay near Hella or Hvolsvollur, where small hotels often have hot tubs and saunas. Mix short walks to waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss with long hours of downtime. For something more active, hike into Reykjadalur Valley where a natural hot spring river flows between the hills.
• Day 7: The Blue Lagoon
  • End with a final visit to the Blue Lagoon, conveniently located near the airport. Spend your last hours drifting between the pools or book a massage before your flight.
     

Best family Iceland itinerary

Iceland works well for families since many highlights are close to Reykjavik and easy to reach. Over a week, you can balance short walks to waterfalls, geothermal pools, and cultural activities that keep both kids and adults engaged.

• Days 1 & 2: Reykjavik with kids
  • Start with family-friendly stops like the Whale Museum, the Saga Museum, and the Reykjavik Family Park, which combines a small zoo and play areas. In the evening, head to Laugardalslaug, a geothermal pool with slides and shallow sections for children.
• Days 3 & 4: Golden Circle
  • The Golden Circle is easy with kids, with short walks at Thingvellir, Geysir’s frequent eruptions, and safe viewing platforms at Gullfoss waterfall. On the second day, visit the Secret Lagoon in Fludir for a quieter geothermal pool experience.
• Days 5 & 6: South Coast
  • Drive the south coast to Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the water, and to Skogafoss, which has a wide open base where kids can play. End the day at Reynisfjara’s black sand beach, keeping a safe distance from the waves, and stop in Vik for ice cream before returning.
• Day 7: Easy nature and local flavor
  • Take the short ferry to Videy Island for open fields and easy walking paths with views of Reykjavik. Back in the city, pick up pastries like kleinur from a bakery and finish the trip with a relaxed family meal.
     

Iceland travel itineraries FAQ

Here’s some of the most common questions we get from our readers when planning an Iceland itinerary.

How many days are enough for Iceland?

If it is your first visit, 7 to 10 days works well. That gives you time to drive the Ring Road at a pace where you can actually stop and explore rather than just watching landscapes from the car.

Iceland looks manageable on a map but distances add up quickly. The Ring Road is about 828 miles (1,332 km), and it is normal to double your travel time because of frequent stops. A two-hour drive can turn into four once you factor in unplanned detours and photo breaks.

If you only have a week, focus on Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast as far as Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Trips shorter than five days usually feel more like a highlights tour than a full experience.

What is the best time to visit Iceland?

In summer, from June to August, you get long daylight hours, mild weather, and access to highland roads. Average temperatures are around 50 to 60°F (10 to 15°C). The season is busy and more expensive, but it is the easiest time for hiking and road trips.

From October to March, Iceland shifts into winter. This is when you can see the Northern Lights and explore ice caves. Days are short in December with only four or five hours of daylight, but the low sun makes for striking conditions. Warm clothing is essential and the weather can change quickly.

May and September can be good middle grounds. In September you may catch the aurora with longer days, while May has wildflowers and fewer travelers. April is unpredictable, often swinging between snow, mud, and sunshine, which is why locals sometimes call it the fifth season.

How do you get around Iceland?

When it comes to getting around Iceland, you have options.

Between cities

Renting a car is the most flexible way to travel. The Ring Road connects most places of interest and driving yourself means you can stop when something catches your eye. Public buses run through Strætó but schedules are limited, often with one bus a day to major towns. Domestic flights link larger towns like Akureyri and Egilsstaðir but you miss a lot along the way.

Within cities

Reykjavik is easy to explore on foot. The bus system can take you to places like Perlan or the Laugardalur swimming pool. Other towns are small enough to cover on foot. Taxis are available but costly, and you pay a base fee just for getting in.

Driving pros and cons

Renting a car gives you independence and makes it easier to save money by shopping at supermarkets instead of eating out every meal. Costs can add up with fuel, insurance, and rental prices, especially for 4WDs. Winter driving requires confidence with icy roads and limited visibility. Many will choose to drive the south themselves and then book tours for activities further afield.
 

Is it safe to drive in Iceland, especially in winter?

Roads are generally well maintained, but winter driving requires caution. Ice, snow, and sudden gusts of wind can make conditions difficult. A 4WD is strongly advised between November and March.

Check road.is before heading out. The site is updated throughout the day with closures and live webcams. If a road is marked as closed, it is not passable. Remember that single-lane bridges are common and that sheep wander freely near roads in summer. Most importantly, take local advice seriously. If someone tells you not to drive, do not.

What should I know about F-roads (highland roads)?

F-roads cross Iceland’s interior and are open only in summer, usually from June to September. By law you must have a 4WD to drive them. They are unpaved, often steep, and involve river crossings. Attempting them in a regular car is illegal and voids insurance.

Routes like F208 to Landmannalaugar or F35 across Kjölur reach areas that are otherwise inaccessible. Conditions change daily and phone signal is unreliable. Rivers are usually lower in the morning, so plan crossings early. Always check road.is and safetravel.is before setting out.

It is safer to travel in a convoy so you have help if something goes wrong. Rental insurance rarely covers water damage from river crossings, so know the risks. If you would rather not handle it yourself, there are bus routes and guided super jeep trips that access the same areas.
 

How are road conditions and where do I check them?

Road.is is the main resource for road updates. It shows color-coded maps and webcams so you can see conditions in real time.

Vedur.is gives weather forecasts which are important since wind and storms often affect travel. The SafeTravel app can send alerts and lets you register your travel plans with emergency services.

In winter, conditions can change within hours, so a clear road in the morning may not be safe by the afternoon. If you are unsure, wait it out. Most accommodations are flexible about late arrivals when weather is the reason.

How much does a trip to Iceland cost?

Iceland is pricey. On average you’ll pay 30 to 50 percent more than in Norway or Switzerland, and about twice what you’d spend in Denmark. Even simple meals are expensive, and the 24% VAT adds to the bill.

• Budget (ISK 15,000–20,000 / $110–145 per day): Think hostel dorms or camping, groceries, and buses or hitchhiking. Cooking for yourself is key, and free hot springs beat paying to swim elsewhere if you need to save money.
• Mid-range (ISK 30,000–45,000 / $220–330 per day): This level covers guesthouses with private bathrooms, one restaurant meal a day, splitting a rental car, and joining some tours. It’s the way many travelers balance comfort and cost.
• Luxury (ISK 60,000+ / $440+ per day): At this end you can stay in boutique hotels, eat at Michelin-starred restaurants in Reykjavik, book private super jeep tours, or take a helicopter flight over a volcano.
   

How much do groceries cost vs. eating out?

Restaurants will drain your budget quickly. A casual meal costs ISK 3,000–4,500 ($22–33), while dinner often runs ISK 6,000–8,000 per person. Even fast food is expensive, and a tasting menu in Reykjavik is ISK 15,000 or more.

Supermarkets like Bónus and Krónan make a big difference. Bread is around ISK 600, pasta about ISK 300, chicken breast around ISK 700. Alcohol is expensive everywhere except at the airport duty-free. Many travelers stock up as soon as they land.

Should I stay in Reykjavik as a base or move around?

It comes down to your style of travel and the time of year. Staying in Reykjavik means you unpack once, have reliable Wi-Fi, and can eat out easily. From the city you can do day trips to the Golden Circle, the South Coast, or Snæfellsnes. The trade-off is spending hours in the car and paying some of the highest hotel rates in the country.

Traveling around instead gives you more time on location. Small town guesthouses often include breakfast, though dining choices can be limited and you’ll be packing up often. In winter Reykjavik can be the easier base, since rural roads are sometimes closed.
 

Is the Blue Lagoon worth it or are there better alternatives?

The Blue Lagoon is famous for its blue water, swim-up bar, and silica masks. Basic entry starts at ISK 14,000 and you need to book in advance. It can be crowded, but the facilities are excellent and soaking outside in bad weather is a unique experience.

Other options are worth considering. Sky Lagoon near Reykjavik has ocean views and a seven-step spa ritual. Mývatn Nature Baths in the north feel like a quieter version of the Blue Lagoon. Secret Lagoon in Flúðir is simpler and less expensive.

For something more everyday, head to a local swimming pool. Every town has one, usually with hot pots where people meet after work. 

What adventure activities are available (glacier hiking, ice climbing)?

Glacier hikes are easy to arrange on Sólheimajökull or Vatnajökull. Guides provide the gear and show you how to use crampons. If you want more challenge, ice climbing lets you try scaling vertical walls with axes.

Natural ice caves open from October to March, while the man-made cave at Langjökull runs all year. Snorkeling in Silfra fissure is another highlight. You float between tectonic plates in water so clear you can see incredible distances. A dry suit is required to handle the cold.

In summer you can hike volcanoes, raft rivers, kayak among icebergs at Jökulsárlón, or ride Icelandic horses. Super jeeps take travelers into areas that regular cars can’t reach. Whale watching is best from Húsavík, and you can also find caving, coasteering, and zip-lining tours.
 

Should I book tours in advance or can I decide on arrival?

It’s best to book glacier hikes, ice caves, and Northern Lights tours before you arrive, especially in winter when there are fewer daylight hours. The same goes for the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon.

Weather-based tours, like Northern Lights trips, can sometimes be booked on arrival. Operators often let you rebook if the lights don’t appear.

In July and August, many tours fill quickly and rental cars often sell out months ahead. Bus tours to the Golden Circle and South Coast usually have space, and museums or city tours almost never require booking.

Are there any dangerous animals or natural hazards?

There are no dangerous animals in Iceland. No bears, snakes, or venomous insects. Arctic foxes are shy, and swans can be aggressive in nesting season.

The real risks come from nature. Sneaker waves at Reynisfjara beach have pulled people into the sea. Geothermal areas are dangerous if you leave marked paths, and the steam can burn. Waterfall spray makes rocks slippery, and ignoring barriers has cost lives.

The wind is powerful enough to knock people down or rip car doors open. Glaciers are filled with hidden crevasses, so never go without a guide. Weather changes quickly and hypothermia is a year-round risk if you are not prepared. 

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