How to spend 14 days in Iceland - 4 unique itineraries

Iceland, with its otherworldly landscapes, geothermal wonders, and vibrant culture, is a destination that deserves more than just a fleeting visit. If you find yourself fortunate enough to have 14 days to spare, you're in for a treat. Here’s our guide to planning the perfect 14-day Iceland itinerary.

Is 14 days enough for Iceland?

Absolutely — 14 days in Iceland can provide a well-rounded experience while still allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes along the Ring Road, visit iconic natural wonders like waterfalls and geysers, and engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and glacier walks. This timeframe also allows some time to discover cultural offerings in Reykjavik, and to potentially explore smaller towns for a more immersive experience. 

Just keep in mind that Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to plan a few buffer days in your itinerary.

Tip from Rough Guides: Learn about the best ways to get to Iceland.

Places to visit on a 14-day Iceland itinerary

In two weeks, you can cover a diverse range of landscapes, from cascading waterfalls and charming towns, to geothermal wonders and whale-watching adventures. 

Skaftafell National Park

Little compares to the natural beauty of Skaftafell National Park. Located in the southern part of the country, this park is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Marvel at the majestic Svartifoss waterfall, framed by basalt columns, and hike along scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of glaciers and lush green landscapes. Skaftafell National Park is a captivating introduction to Iceland's untamed wilderness.

The Westfjords

The remote and rugged Westfjords is a region that promises a unique off-the-beaten-path experience. Here, dramatic cliffs meet the deep blue sea, and charming fishing villages dot the coastline. Take a boat trip to the bird cliffs of Latrabjarg — home to puffins and other seabirds — and soak in the tranquility of the untouched landscapes. The Westfjords offer a glimpse into Iceland's raw and untouched beauty.

Húsavík

During your 14-day Iceland itinerary, you’ll want to head to Húsavík — a charming town that's known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Join a boat tour and witness majestic whales in their natural habitat. Húsavík's picturesque harbour and friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit destination on your Icelandic adventure.

Only have a few days? Maximize your adventure with our 5-day Iceland itinerary, designed to hit all the highlights without feeling rushed.

Myvatn

While in Iceland, take the time to explore the surreal landscapes around Lake Myvatn, a geothermal wonderland surrounded by volcanic craters and bubbling mud pools. Visit the iconic Hverfjall volcano and relax in the soothing waters of the Myvatn Nature Baths. Myvatn offers a unique blend of natural beauty and geological wonders.

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle route is a classic Icelandic itinerary that encompasses some of the country's most iconic landmarks. Witness the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, marvel at the erupting geysers at Geysir, and walk between the continental plates at Thingvellir National Park. The Golden Circle is a concise yet comprehensive journey through Iceland's geological wonders.

Reykjavik

While here, don’t miss the vibrant capital city of Reykjavik. Explore the colorful streets adorned with street art, soak in the geothermal waters of the nearby Blue Lagoon, and indulge in the city's lively cultural scene. 

Can't wait for your trip to Iceland? Increase your chances of an unforgettable trip by choosing one of the best places to stay in Reykjavik.

Itinerary #1: All of Iceland in 2 weeks

This comprehensive 14-day Icelandic adventure starts with Reykjavik's charm and the Golden Circle's wonders. From there, you’ll explore the south coast's waterfalls and black sand beaches before venturing into Skaftafell National Park and the iconic Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

You’ll discover the North with the Godafoss waterfall, charming towns, and remote gems. Dive into the Westfjords, unveiling hidden beaches and Látrabjarg cliffs for puffin encounters. Explore Snaefellsnes' glacier volcano and West Iceland's unique waterfalls. Hike to Glymur, Europe's most powerful hot spring, before concluding your journey in Keflavik. This condensed itinerary promises a whirlwind of Iceland's natural marvels. Read more.

Itinerary overview

Check out this 14-day Iceland itinerary:

Day 1

• Arrive and pick up your rental car.
• Depending on your arrival time, take a detour through the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula on your way to Reykjavik.
• Spend the day exploring Reykjavik’s charming downtown, impressive landmarks, and a variety of museums.

Day 2

• Explore the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route.
• Visit Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• Consider additional stops like Kerid Crater Lake and the hot springs town of Hveragerdi.

Day 3 

• Drive along Iceland’s scenic south coast with views of glacier volcanoes along Road 1.
• Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls.
• Walk the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara with views of Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the Dyrholaey cliff.

Day 4 

• Discover Skaftafell National Park with hikes to Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue and Svartifoss waterfall.
• Visit Jokulsarlon, the famous glacier lagoon, and the "diamond" beach.
• Explore lesser-known glacier lagoons, Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, and charming towns in Southeast Iceland.

Day 5

• Explore the volcanic Lake Mývatn area with attractions like Dimmuborgir Lava Park, Skútustaðagígar craters, and bubbling geothermal areas.

Day 6

• Follow the Diamond Circle route, visiting Dettifoss waterfall, Vesturdalur Valley, and Ásbyrgi Canyon.
• Discover geological wonders like Hljóðaklettar basalt formations and colorful Rauðhólar hills.
• Stop in Húsavík, known for whale-watching and GeoSea geothermal sea baths.

Day 7

• Visit Goðafoss waterfall and explore Akureyri, the heart of North Iceland.
• Drive along the coast to Siglufjörður, a charming fishing village on the Troll Peninsula.

Day 8

• Discover North West Iceland with stops at lesser-known sites like Hvítserkur Sea Stack, Borgarvirki Fort, and Vatnsdalur Valley.
• Look for seals along the Vatnsnes Peninsula coastline.
• Explore the remote Strandir region, known for its dark history of sorcery and witchcraft.

Day 9

• Continue exploring the Strandir region with panoramic inlets, scenic waterfalls, and driftwood beaches.
• Visit Munaðarnes Farm for breathtaking views of abandoned fjords.

Day 10

• Experience the stunning fjord landscapes of Ísafjörður Bay.
• Stop at Hvítanes Cape, the Litlibær turf-roofed house, Súðavík, and Valagil Gorge.
• Explore the picturesque town of Ísafjörður, known for its rich maritime history.

Day 11

• Drive through some of Iceland’s most beautiful fjords, charming fishing villages, and steep mountain passes.
• Visit the majestic Dynjandi waterfall and enjoy the scenic drive through Arnarfjörður, Dýrafjörður, and Önundarfjörður.

Day 12

• Discover the southern Westfjords with light-colored beaches, including Rauðasandur.
• Visit Látrabjarg Cliffs, the westernmost point of Iceland, famous for bird-watching and puffin photography.

Day 13

• Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, dominated by Snæfellsjökull glacier volcano.
• Visit Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall, desolate lava fields, rock formations, beaches, and wildlife.

Day 14

• Discover West Iceland’s unique waterfalls and Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe.
• Detour into Hvalfjörður fjord to hike to Glymur, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall.
• Depart from Keflavík.

Can't wait to see Iceland’s iconic sights? Make the most of a week with our 7-day itinerary, from black sand beaches to volcanic landscapes.

Itinerary #2: Iceland road trip

On this two-week self-drive road trip, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Iceland’s captivating natural marvels. Explore Heimaey's volcanic landscape on day three and the scenic south coast on day four, featuring waterfalls and black sand beaches. Day five ventures into Skaftafell National Park and the iconic Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Explore the volcanic Lake Myvatn area on day six, and follow the diamond circle route on day seven, including the Dettifoss waterfall and whale-watching in Husavik. 

Days nine through ten cover North and North West Iceland, highlighting Godafoss waterfall, charming towns, and remote gems. Day eleven unfolds in Isafjordur Bay, with day twelve exploring beautiful fjords and Dynjandi waterfall. Day thirteen delves into the Southern Westfjords, featuring Raudasandur beaches and Latrabjarg cliffs. Conclude your journey on day fourteen exploring the Snaefellsnes peninsula's glacier volcano and wildlife before departing from Keflavik. Read more. 

Itinerary overview

Check out this 14-day Iceland itinerary

Day 1

• Arrive in Iceland and pick up your rental car.
• Depending on your arrival time, detour through the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula on your way to Reykjavik.
• Spend the day exploring Reykjavik’s charming downtown, impressive landmarks, and various museums.

Day 2 

• Explore the Golden Circle, Iceland's most popular sightseeing route.
• Visit Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• Consider additional stops at Kerid Crater Lake and the hot springs town of Hveragerdi.

Day 3

• Head to Heimaey, the largest and only inhabited island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.
• Visit Eldfell, one of Iceland’s youngest volcanoes, and the Eldheimar Museum, which tells the story of the 1973 eruption.

Day 4 

• Discover the scenic south coast, with views of glacier volcanoes along Road 1.
• Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls.
• Walk along the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara with views of Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the Dyrholaey cliff.

Day 5 

• Explore Skaftafell National Park, with hiking options to Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue and Svartifoss waterfall.
• Visit Jokulsarlon, the famous glacier lagoon, and the "diamond" beach.
• Discover lesser-known glacier lagoons, Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, and charming towns in Southeast Iceland.

Day 6

• Explore the volcanic Lake Mývatn area, with attractions like Dimmuborgir Lava Park, Skútustaðagígar craters, and bubbling geothermal fields.

Day 7

• Follow the Diamond Circle route, visiting Dettifoss waterfall, Vesturdalur Valley, and Ásbyrgi Canyon.
• Discover the geological wonders of Hljóðaklettar basalt formations and colorful Rauðhólar hills.
• Visit Húsavík, known for whale-watching and the GeoSea geothermal sea baths.

Day 8

• Visit Goðafoss waterfall and explore Akureyri, the heart of North Iceland.
• Drive along the coast to Siglufjörður, a charming fishing village on the Troll Peninsula.

Day 9

• Discover North West Iceland, with stops at lesser-known sites like Hvítserkur Sea Stack, Borgarvirki Fort, and Vatnsdalur Valley.
• Look for seals along the Vatnsnes Peninsula coastline.
• Explore the remote Strandir region, known for its intriguing history of sorcery and witchcraft.

Day 10

• Experience the stunning fjord landscapes of Ísafjörður Bay.
• Stop at Hvítanes Cape, the Litlibær turf-roofed house, Súðavík, and Valagil Gorge.
• Explore the picturesque town of Ísafjörður, famous for its rich maritime history.

Day 11

• Drive through some of Iceland’s most beautiful fjords, charming fishing villages, and steep mountain passes.
• Visit the majestic Dynjandi waterfall and enjoy the scenic drive through Arnarfjörður, Dýrafjörður, and Önundarfjörður.

Day 12

• Discover the southern Westfjords, featuring light-colored beaches like Rauðasandur.
• Visit Látrabjarg Cliffs, the westernmost point of Iceland, ideal for bird-watching and puffin photography.

Day 13 

• Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, dominated by the Snæfellsjökull glacier volcano.
• Visit Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall, desolate lava fields, rock formations, beaches, and wildlife.

Day 14 

• Discover West Iceland’s unique waterfalls and Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring.
• Detour into Hvalfjörður fjord to hike to Glymur, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall.
• Depart from Keflavík.

Planning your trip to Iceland? See our Iceland itineraries for inspiration

Itinerary #3: The magic of eastern Iceland

This 14-day itinerary will take you on an extensive trip through Eastern Iceland. Explore Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, discover east fjord fishing villages, and visit Lake Lagarfljót. Enjoy hot pools, encounter puffins, and hike Asbyrgi Canyon. 

Start in Höfn, picking up your car and heading straight to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon for a boat ride or glacier kayaking. Explore Höfn and enjoy a lobster dinner to kick off your adventure.

Next, drive to Djúpivogur for mountain views and a hike, or opt for a boat trip to Papey Island. Continue to Fáskrúðsfjörður and settle into your hotel. Spend the following day exploring the East Fjords, detouring to a coastal nature reserve before another night in Fáskrúðsfjörður.

Move on to the villages of Mjóifjörður and Seyðisfjörður for waterfall hikes and scenic gorges, staying overnight in Egilsstaðir. Discover Lake Lagarfljót and soak in hot pots along nearby trails, then visit Borgarfjörður Eystri for puffins and folklore, ending in Vopnafjörður.

Drive along the dramatic coastline to Raufarhöfn and visit the Arctic Henge. Hike through Ásbyrgi Canyon and go whale-watching in Húsavík. Explore the Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon and unwind in the Mývatn Nature Baths.

Wrap up with volcanic landscapes around Lake Mývatn, including Dimmuborgir and Goðafoss, before ending your journey in Akureyri. Read more. 

Itinerary overview

Check out this 14-day Iceland itinerary:

Day 1

• Arrive at Höfn domestic airport and pick up your car.
• Drive directly to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
• Choose between a boat ride or glacier kayaking tour.
• Explore Höfn town and its surroundings in the evening.
• Enjoy a delicious lobster dinner.

Day 2

• Drive to Djúpivogur, home to many beautiful sights.
• Cross the mountain pass for stunning views over the glacier.
• Take an afternoon hike to one of Iceland's most beautiful mountains, or enjoy a boat tour to Papey Island.
• Continue to Fáskrúðsfjörður and check into your hotel.

Day 3

• Explore the picturesque fishing villages of the East Fjords.
• Take a detour along the coast to a nature reserve for cave and quarry exploration.
• Overnight in Fáskrúðsfjörður.

Day 4

• Visit the villages of Mjóifjörður and Seyðisfjörður.
• Explore waterfalls or hike through scenic gorges.
• Continue to your hotel in Egilsstaðir.

Day 5 

• Discover the area around Lake Lagarfljót.
• Visit Iceland’s largest forest.

Day 6

• Relax and soak in hot pots, and enjoy hiking along exciting trails.

Day 7

• Drive to Borgarfjörður Eystri, known for puffins and folklore about elves.
• Head north to Vopnafjörður, visit a turf-roofed museum, and see fascinating sea stacks.
• Overnight in Vopnafjörður.

Day 8

• Drive along a dramatic section of coastline to Raufarhöfn, the Arctic Circle village.
• Visit the Arctic Henge.
• Overnight in Raufarhöfn.

Day 9

• Hike in the Ásbyrgi Canyon.
• Take a whale-watching tour from Húsavík, the whale-watching capital of Europe.
• Overnight in Húsavík.

Day 10

• Explore Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon, Hljóðaklettar, and the majestic Dettifoss waterfall.
• Visit the Námafjall geothermal area.
• Relax with a soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths.

Day 11

• Leisure day to explore the area or rest.

Day 12

• Discover the volcanic and geothermal wonders of the Lake Mývatn area.
• Visit Skútustaðagígar craters, Dimmuborgir lava formations, and Goðafoss waterfall.

Day 13

• Continue to the charming town of Akureyri.

Day 14

• Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
• Head to Akureyri International Airport.
• Drop off your rental car and catch your departure flight.

If this journey speaks to you, personalize it! Use our tailor-made trip service to create the adventure of your dreams and book it today.

Itinerary #4: Incredible Iceland

This 14-day Iceland trip will take you through many popular sites Iceland has to offer. Explore West Iceland's waterfalls and Glymur on day one. Day two unveils Snaefellsnes peninsula's scenic wonders. Encounter puffins in the Southern Westfjords on day three. Day five features stunning fjords and the Dynjandi Waterfall. 

Explore Isafjordur Bay on day six. Day seven explores Akureyri and North West Iceland's gems. Day nine delves into Lake Myvatn's volcanic wonders. Day eleven explores the Eastfjords, and day twelve ventures to Southeast Iceland with the Vatnajokull glacier. 

Day thirteen explores the scenic south coast, and day fourteen concludes with the Golden Circle. Read more.

Itinerary overview

Check out this Iceland 14 days itinerary

Day 1 

• Arrive and pick up your rental car.
• Drive north from Reykjavik.
• Explore West Iceland, known for unique waterfalls and Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring.
• Detour into the Hvalfjörður fjord to hike to Glymur, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall.

Day 2 

• Discover the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, dominated by the Snæfellsjökull glacier volcano.
• Visit Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall outside of Grundarfjörður.
• Experience diverse sights including lava fields, fascinating rock formations, windswept beaches, orca sightings, and bird colonies.

Day 3

• Visit the Southern Westfjords, famous for stunning light-colored beaches, particularly the red-hued Rauðasandur.
• Explore the Látrabjarg cliffs, Iceland’s westernmost point, known for bird-watching and close encounters with puffins.

Day 4

• Leisure day to explore the Westfjords at your own pace or rest.

Day 5

• Drive through some of Iceland’s most beautiful fjords, charming fishing villages, and steep mountain passes.
• The highlight of this route is Dynjandi waterfall, one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls.
• Enjoy a scenic drive through the fjords of Arnarfjörður, Dýrafjörður, and Önundarfjörður.

Day 6

• Experience the stunning fjord landscape of Ísafjörður Bay.
• Stop for seals at Hvítanes Cape, waffles at the Litlibær turf-roofed house, and hikes in Valagil Gorge.
• Explore the town of Ísafjörður, the largest settlement in the Westfjords with a rich maritime history.

Day 7

• Explore Akureyri, the heart of North Iceland, known for its charming downtown, architectural sites, museums, and botanical gardens.
• Discover lesser-visited gems in North West Iceland, like Hvítserkur Sea Stack, Borgarvirki Fort, and Vatnsdalur Valley.
• The remote Strandir region has a dark history of sorcery, with panoramic inlets, scenic waterfalls, and driftwood-strewn beaches.

Day 8

• Continue exploring Akureyri, with a stop at Goðafoss, one of Iceland’s prettiest waterfalls.
• Look for seals along the Vatnsnes Peninsula coastline.

Day 9

• Discover the volcanic wonders of Lake Mývatn.
• Explore Dimmuborgir lava formations, Skútustaðagígar craters, bubbling geothermal areas, Víti and Hverfjall craters, and the Grjótagjá lava cave.

Day 10

• Leisure day to explore the Lake Mývatn area at your own pace or rest.

Day 11

• Travel along the scenic Eastfjords section of the Ring Road, known for its towering mountains, fjords, and charming fishing villages.
• Visit Egilsstaðir, the capital of the Eastfjords, situated on the banks of Lake Lagarfljót, rumored to host a lake monster.
• Drive around the lake, passing through Iceland’s largest forest, with an optional short hike to Hengifoss waterfall.
• Visit Stuðlagil Canyon to see impressive basalt column formations.

Day 12

• Head to Southeast Iceland, dominated by Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier.
• Explore Skaftafell Nature Reserve, with hikes and a walk to Svartifoss waterfall.
• Visit Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where icebergs flow to the sea, and see the “diamond” beach.
• Discover lesser-known glacier lagoons, Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, and charming towns in Southeast Iceland.

Day 13

• Travel along the scenic south coast, visiting famous attractions like Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall.
• Stop at Skógafoss, often accompanied by rainbows and a favorite spot for photographers.
• Visit Reynisfjara black sand beach, with views of Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the Dyrhólaey cliff.

Day 14

• If your flight departs in the late afternoon or evening, use the last day to explore the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route.
• Visit Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park.
• Consider extra activities or discover lesser-visited gems along the route.

Dreaming of a deeper dive into Iceland’s wild beauty? Spend 10 days exploring off-the-beaten-path wonders and unforgettable natural landmarks.

Prepare for your 14-day Iceland itinerary

Crafted by our local travel experts, each of these itineraries is thoughtfully designed to offer an exceptional experience. For more information and inspo, read up on the best time to explore Iceland, uncover top activities in the region, and explore additional Iceland itineraries.

If you'd rather avoid the hours of research typically required to plan a dream trip, use our tailor-made trip service. They're fully customizable, ensuring a personalized adventure that suits your preferences.

Excited to plan your own 14 day journey to Iceland? Delve into The Rough Guide to Iceland.

Want to explore Europe even more? We have prepared the most convenient European itineraries for you to explore the continent.