Perfect 14-day Iceland itinerary

Planning a trip to Iceland? With its lava fields, hot springs, and dramatic coastlines, this isn’t a place you want to rush. A full two weeks gives you time to do it properly. Here’s our guide to planning the perfect 14-day Iceland itinerary.

The perfect 14-day Iceland itinerary

We asked our Rough Guides travel experts to design the ultimate two-week itinerary — one that balances must-visit sights with remote, lesser-explored regions. If your trip planning to Iceland includes both iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path adventures, this itinerary will help you experience the best places to visit in Iceland.

If you want to see Iceland but aren't sure if you have 14 days to spare, be sure to see our other Iceland itineraries: 

• 5 days in Iceland 
• 10 days in Iceland

Day 1: The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is Iceland's go-to sightseeing route, and for good reason. It's home to three major highlights: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. 

Thingvellir is a historically significant place, located in the rift valley between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. At the Geysir geothermal area, the Strokkur geyser erupts 30 meters into the air every 8-10 minutes. Gullfoss, or the Golden Falls, is one of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls. This is easily one of the best road trips in Iceland.

Things to do

In addition to the main attractions, there are plenty of other lesser-known gems to explore along the way.

Geothermal bakery tour 

If you want something a little different, check out Laugarvatn Fontana. They bake Icelandic rye bread in the ground using the geothermal heat from nearby hot springs. The bread’s buried for about 24 hours, and the end result is dense and slightly sweet. You’ll get try freshly dug up and taste it with some local butter

Flúðir geothermal baths 

For a more relaxed and less crowded experience than the Blue Lagoon, check out Iceland’s oldest swimming pool in the village of Flúðir. Built in 1891, the pool uses natural hot spring water at a steady 38-40°C. While you soak in the mineral-rich water, you can also watch a small geyser erupt nearby.

Kerid volcanic crater lake 

This 3,000-year-old volcanic crater is known for its vivid red rock, which contrasts beautifully with the bright aquamarine water. Unlike many of Iceland's craters, Kerid's walls are mostly red (not black) due to the iron-rich deposits. The crater is only 55 meters deep and has a great walking trail around the rim,.

Inside the Volcano tour 

You can descend 120 meters into the magma chamber of the dormant Þríhnúkagígur volcano, one of the few places in the world where you can enter an intact volcanic chamber. The space is large enough to fit the Statue of Liberty, and the walls are filled with colorful minerals that create a unique kaleidoscope effect. The descent is made in an open cable lift, similar to those used for cleaning windows on tall buildings.

Where to stay

For a comfortable base, stay in Reykjavik. It's Iceland's capital, and has plenty of accommodation options, with cozy guesthouses and upscale hotels, plus it's a good starting point for the Golden Circle route.

Day 2: South Coast Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches

Travel time: 2.5 hours by car from Reykjavik 

 As you drive along Route 1 (Ring Road), you’ll pass glaciers and volcanoes, with dramatic views of these natural wonders from the road. The south coastline is known for its mix of thundering waterfalls, black sand beaches, and being home to some of the most active volcanoes on Earth,

Things to do

A coastal drive packed with waterfalls, black sand beaches, and rugged cliffs.

Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss 

These two waterfalls are close to each other but totally different in character. At Seljalandsfoss, you can walk behind the 60-meter waterfall through a natural cave. Just 30 minutes away, Skogafoss crashes down with incredible power, at 60 meters high and 25 meters wide, and often creating rainbows in the mist.

Reynisfjara

Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s best beaches, with its black sand formed by centuries of volcanic activity. The basalt columns on the cliffs act as natural steps, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rise up from the ocean. Local legend says they’re trolls turned to stone by the sun. 

Dyrholaey cliffs and stone arch 

At 120 meters high, Dyrholaey offers a massive stone arch big enough for boats to pass through and even small planes to fly under. From April to August, it's a prime spot to see puffins nesting on the cliffs. 

Where to stay

Consider staying in Vik, a small village near Reynisfjara. It's centrally located for exploring nearby waterfalls, beaches, and cliffs, and has a range of guesthouses and hotels.

Day 3: Skaftafell National Park & Glacier Lagoons

Travel time: 4.5 hours by car from Reykjavik (2 hours from Vik) 

Southeast Iceland is home to Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, and the stunning Skaftafell nature reserve, located between its glacier tongues. There are a lot of great places to hike here.

Things to do

Explore glaciers, hike scenic trails, and experience the surreal beauty of Iceland's ice caves.

Ice cave tour 

While here, you can stop to explore the ice caves inside Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. These caves are formed each winter when meltwater channels freeze, creating stunning blue ice chambers. The caves are always unique, with different formations each year. Guided tours are available from November to March.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve

The "Black Falls" is framed by dark hexagonal basalt columns formed by slowly cooling lava. The 1.5km hiking trail offers stunning views of the park and surrounding glaciers. The hike is moderately challenging but rewards you with one of Iceland's most photographed waterfalls.

Fjadrargljufur Canyon 

This 2-kilometer canyon has walls up to 100 meters high. It was formed during the last ice age, and its winding paths and moss-covered walls give it a mystical feel. There’s a walking path along the rim with great views of the canyon and its waterfalls.

Breidamerkurfjara "Diamond Beach"

At Jökulsárlón, you can watch icebergs calve from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and drift through the lagoon. Over time, these ice chunks make their way to the sea, washing up on the black sand beach, where they create a  surreal landscape of glittering "diamonds" on the black sand. 

Where to stay

Stay in Höfn, a charming town by Vatnajökull. It's a perfect base for glacier activities and offers views of the surrounding mountains and sea, with a good selection of hotels and guesthouses.

Day 4: The Eastfjords 

Travel time: 3 hours by car from Jökulsárlón 

The Eastfjords are known for their scenic beauty, with towering mountains, fjords, and small fishing villages. This quieter region gives you a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life, where communities sit between steep mountains and narrow fjords. You might even spot reindeer roaming the hills as you drive through.

Things to do

Discover the tranquil beauty of Iceland’s east, from remote fjords to historical villages.

Visit Egilsstadir

Egilsstadir, the largest town in East Iceland, sits beside Lake Lagarfljot. The lake is home to the Lagarfljót Worm, Iceland’s version of the Loch Ness Monster. Legend has it that this serpentine creature grows longer as it ages. The 25 km lake is surrounded by Iceland's largest forest, and at the southern end, you’ll find Hengifoss waterfall, one of Iceland's tallest.

Studlagil Canyon

Studlagil Canyon was hidden under a powerful glacial river until 2009, when a hydroelectric dam lowered the water level. Now, it’s home to the world’s largest concentration of basalt columns, some as tall as 30 meters. The purple-tinted columns are beautiful to see with the blue-green river running below.

Hallormsstadaskogur Forest 

Iceland’s largest forest, Hallormsstadaskogur, is a rare spot of greenery in an otherwise treeless landscape. The forest, established in 1905, has over 40 tree species and 40 km of hiking trails. It’s also home to Iceland’s only reindeer herd, introduced in the 18th century. 

Hengifoss waterfall hike 

Hengifoss, Iceland’s third-highest waterfall at 128 meters, is known for its red clay and black basalt stripes, formed by volcanic eruptions. The 2.5 km hike to the waterfall passes Litlanesfoss waterfall, surrounded by hexagonal basalt columns. The hike takes about 1-2 hours and you'll get some great views of the valley.

Where to stay

Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland, providing great options for accommodations, from hotels to guesthouses. It's conveniently located near the region’s scenic spots like Hengifoss waterfall and Hallormsstadaskogur Forest.

Day 5: Lake Mývatn 

Travel time: 2.5 hours by car from Egilsstadir 

This region provides a clear view of Iceland's volcanic activity, with fumaroles, mud pots, and lava formations shaped by fire and ice.

Things to do

Spend day 5 of this 14 day Iceland itinerary in volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and mystical lava formations.

Hverir and Leirhnjukur 

Hverir is a geothermal area with bubbling mud pots, steam vents, and a strong sulfur smell. At Leirhnjúkur, you can walk over lava from the 1975-1984 Krafla Fires eruption. The heat from the ground is so intense that snow melts quickly, leaving bare patches even in winter.

Dimmuborgir

Dimmuborgir, or "Dark Castles," features unique lava formations that were created around 2,300 years ago when lava flowed over a marsh. The formations include pillars and caves, with "The Church" being the most famous. According to local folklore, these are said to be the homes of trolls.

Grjotagja

Grjotagja is a small lava cave with a geothermal spring. It was once used as a bathing spot until volcanic activity in the 1970s raised the water temperature. The cave was featured in Game of Thrones, but it also has historical significance, having been used for centuries by locals and even as a hideout by an 18th-century outlaw.

Where to stay

Reykjahlíð is a convenient village to stay in, located near the lake and offering easy access to the geothermal areas and hiking trails. You'll find cozy guesthouses with beautiful lake views.

Day 6: Dettifoss, Jökulsárgljúfur & Húsavík 

Travel time: 1.5 hours by car from Lake Mývatn 

The Diamond Circle route takes you north, starting with the powerful Dettifoss waterfall and continuing through Vesturdalur valley, the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon, and the Botnstjorn pond. The northern route highlights the impact of glacial rivers and volcanic activity, ending in the coastal town of Húsavík.

Things to do

Experience the raw power of waterfalls and the serenity of whale watching in the north.

Jokulsargljufur Glacier River Canyon

This 25 km canyon was carved by glacial floods at the end of the last ice age. Part of Vatnajökull National Park, the canyon links three main attractions: Dettifoss, Vesturdalur, and Ásbyrgi. The canyon walls reach 120 meters high and showcase layers of volcanic history that stretch back millions of years.

Dettifoss

Here you can feel the ground shake as 500 cubic meters of water per second tumble down this 45-meter high, 100-meter wide waterfall. The massive flow of glacial meltwater gives the falls a unique grey color. For dramatic close-up views, visit the east bank

Vesturdalur Valley

Known for the Hljóðaklettar ("Echo Rocks"), this valley features unusual columnar basalt formations, some twisted into circular patterns by ancient volcanic activity. The acoustics here are great— the rocks naturally amplify sounds and create echoes.

Husavik

Húsavík is famous for its whale watching, with a 98% success rate for spotting whales during whale season. The nutrient-rich waters attract up to 23 species, including blue whales, humpbacks, and white-beaked dolphins. You can also visit the 1907 wooden church, a fine example of Icelandic architecture.

Snowmobiling tour 

Hop on a snowmobile and cruise across Langjökull, Iceland’s third-largest glacier. After a quick briefing, your guide will lead you through the snowfields, with great views of the northern highlands. The two-hour tour is beginner-friendly and gives you a different look at Iceland's glaciers.

Where to stay

Húsavík is a great option for whale watching but it’s also great for its accommodations, from charming guesthouses to boutique hotels, and a lovely small-town atmosphere.

Day 7: Dalir & Southern Strandir 

Travel time: 5 hours by car from Húsavík 

The valleys of Dalir have a rich history, dating back to the Settlement of Iceland. It's where many sagas took place and where Eirikur "the Red" and his son Leifur Eiriksson lived. The coastal route around Fellsstrond and Skardsstrond is not often visited but offers incredible views of Breidafjordur’s many islands. 

Things to do

On the end of the first week of this two week Iceland itinerary, venture into the quiet and rugged coastline, steeped in folklore and natural beauty.

Strandir region 

One of Iceland’s most isolated regions, this coastline has long been associated with sorcery and dark magic. Now, it offers a quiet experience with rugged nature and small fishing villages. The coastline features steep cliffs where seabirds nest and old herring stations.

Hot pots by the sea at Drangsnes 

Three geothermal hot tubs sit by the sea in Drangsnes, free for anyone to use. The hot pots offer different temperatures and views of the fjord. While you relax, look out for seals or, in winter, the Northern Lights. The tubs are kept up by local villagers, continuing Iceland's geothermal bathing tradition.

Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft in Holmavik 

This museum gives a look into Iceland’s history of witch hunts in the 17th century, where most of the accused were men. You’ll learn about magical runes, necropants (pants made from human skin that were said to bring money), and the fate of those accused of witchcraft. It’s a look into how hardship and isolation contributed to supernatural beliefs.

Where to stay

Drangsnes is an ideal place to stay in the Strandir region. It offers a few guesthouses with stunning sea views and access to the geothermal hot pots by

Day 8: Isafjördur Bay 

Travel time: 2.5 hours by car from Holmavik 

Isafjordur Bay is a great place to experience Iceland's iconic fjord landscape. Isafjordur, the largest town in the area, has a rich maritime history and a charming town center. The drive to the bay takes you through deep fjords, past old farms that tell the story of tough lives, and offers plenty of chances to spot wildlife and experience local culture.

Things to do

Discover the isolated beauty of the Westfjords with seal sightings and stunning fjords.

Seals at Hvitanes cape 

Hvitanes cape is one of the best spots in Iceland to see seals. You can spot common and grey seals sunbathing on the rocks, especially at low tide. The old lighthouse nearby gives you a perfect view, and sometimes the seals will even swim right up to the shore. There’s a fun bit of local folklore about seals being enchanted people who shed their skins to dance on the beach during full moons.

Best waffles in Iceland at Litlibaer 

If you're in the mood for a treat, head to Litlibaer, a turf-roofed house built in 1895 that sits between the mountain and fjord. They serve amazing homemade waffles with rhubarb jam and whipped cream. The house was lived in until 1969, and it’s still full of original furnishings. The caretakers here are happy to share stories about the families who lived here

Kaldalon Glacial Creek and Snaefjallastrond

This remote area offers a stunning view of Drangajökull, Iceland’s northernmost glacier. The Kaldalon creek, filled with glacial meltwater, flows through a peaceful valley, and you might even spot an Arctic fox or two. The Snaefjallastrond coastline is dotted with old, abandoned farms and fishing stations that were once home to a close-knit community – they now stand as monuments to Iceland's harsh climate and changing times.

Where to stay

Ísafjörður is the largest town in the Westfjords and an excellent base for exploring the bay for the next couple of days. The best areas to stay are downtown, Árnes (for something quieter), or Múli (for the most scenic part of town).

Day 9: A day in Isafjördur 

Day 9 of this 14 day Iceland itinerary is spent again in Ísafjörður as your base.

Things to do

A day in Ísafjörður, exploring local villages and tasting Iceland's freshest seafood.

Flateyri

Flateyri is a beautiful small village with only 180 people, sitting under massive avalanche barriers that keep it safe from the surrounding mountains. Be sure to check out the restored Norwegian merchant’s house, which now serves as a folk museum. 

The golden sands of the nearby Holt Beach might surprise you with their Caribbean-like vibe in the Arctic, and the Óndufjörður Fjord is perfect for Arctic surfing if you’re up for it.

Súðavík 

Súðavík is known as Iceland's "Sustainable Village," where they’re leading the way with eco-friendly fishing practices. You can take part in their “seafood trails” and learn about the whole journey of your fish, from boat to plate. The village is tucked away at the end of a 5km tunnel, and you’ll also be surrounded by the beauty of Súgandafjörður, one of Iceland's most picturesque fjords.

Tjoruhusid: Iceland's best fish restaurant

For an authentic Icelandic meal, head to Tjöruhúsid in Ísafjörður’s oldest building (dating back to 1781). The catch of the day is served pan-fried in iron skillets and brought straight to your table—no menu, just whatever the fishing boats brought in that morning. The building was once used for salt fish processing.

Kayaking tour 

Paddle through the calm waters of Ísafjörður Fjord, where the steep mountains reflect perfectly on the water's surface. You might spot seals along the way, and in summer, there’s a chance to see whales feeding in the fjord. Kayaking is great way to get unique views of the area.

Day 10: Southern & Northern Westfjords 

Travel time: Full day circuit from Isafjördur (approximately 8-10 hours round trip) 

Day 10 of this two week itinerary takes you through some of Iceland’s most dramatic and remote landscapes, where nature’s power and beauty are on full display. You’ll explore the southern Westfjords, known for their waterfalls, towering cliffs filled with birds, and surprisingly colorful beaches. While the drive is long, every stop makes this loop more than worth it.

Things to do

On day 10 of this 14 day Iceland itinerary, explore dramatic waterfalls, towering cliffs, and colorful beaches in this remote region.

Dynjandi waterfall 

Known as the “Jewel of the Westfjords,” Dynjandi is an amazing waterfall that fans out over seven tiers. The top is 30 meters wide, and it spreads out to 60 meters at the bottom. The name “Dynjandi” means “thundering” in Icelandic, and you’ll definitely hear why as you make your way up the path

Arnarfjordur

Arnarfjordur is the second-longest fjord in Iceland and is known for its steep mountains and colorful rhyolite peaks. It's also part of local folklore, with tales of sea monsters. There are museums in the area that share stories about these creatures, with more than 20 different types reportedly seen in the fjord over the years.

Latrabjarg 

Látrabjarg is a long stretch of bird cliffs that rise to 440 meters above the sea. During the summer months, puffins and other seabirds nest here. The puffins are surprisingly unbothered by people, so you can get pretty close to them.

Raudasandur

Raudasandur is a unique beach, with sand that ranges from golden to deep red due to crushed scallop shells. The color changes depending on the light. The beach is also home to a seal colony.

Day 11: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Travel time: 4 hours from Westfjords (via ferry from Brjánslækur to Stykkishólmur) 

The 90-km long Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called "Iceland in miniature" for its variety of landscapes. With the Snæfellsjökull glacier volcano at its center, you'll find everything from mossy lava fields to coastal cliffs, plus chances to spot orca whales and seabirds.

Things to do

Experience Iceland in miniature, with glaciers, coastal cliffs, and rich folklore.

Kirkjufell

Kirkjufell is Iceland’s most iconic mountain, standing at 463 meters and featuring prominently in Game of Thrones as "Arrowhead Mountain”. In summer, the mountain glows with golden light at midnight, while in winter, the Northern Lights can sometimes be seen behind it.

Beaches and rock formations of Djupalonssandur, Hellnar and Arnarstapi 

This stretch of coastline offers dramatic views of the Atlantic. At Djúpalónssandur, you can try lifting the four stones that were once used to test a fisherman’s strength. Between Hellnar and Arnarstapi, there’s a coastal path with natural stone arches, basalt columns, and bird cliffs. Keep an eye out for the statue of Bárður, the half-man, half-troll guardian spirit of the peninsula.

Berserkjahraun & Budahraun lava fields 

These moss-covered lava fields have a mix of geological interest and folklore. Berserkjahraun is named after a Viking saga where two berserkers cleared a path through the lava. Búðahraun has unique lava formations and rare plants, with a marked trail leading through the area beneath the Snæfellsjökull glacier.

Budir black church 

The Búðir black church is a striking, solitary building set against a backdrop of lava fields and mountains. Built in 1703 and rebuilt in 1987, it’s an atmospheric spot to visit. Nearby, you’ll find a beach where seals often rest and the ruins of a former fishing village.

Where to stay

Stay in Stykkishólmur, a picturesque fishing town with views of the surrounding fjords. It's a perfect place to explore the peninsula’s stunning scenery and access activities like whale watching.

Day 12: West Iceland & Borgarfjördur

Travel time: 2.5 hours from Snæfellsnes to Borgarfjördur

Day 12 of this 14 day Iceland itinerary is spent in West Iceland: home to several lesser-known sights like the Grabrok crater and Glanni waterfall, just off Road 1. 

Things to do

Visit hot springs, ancient sagas, and volcanic landscapes off the beaten path.

Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring

This hot spring releases 180 liters of 97°C water every second, creating a visible steam cloud. The water is used to heat homes in Borgarnes and Akranes, up to 65 km away. The rare Icelandic fern Blechnum spicant grows here, which you won’t find anywhere else in the country.

Saga heritage at Reykholt village

Reykholt was home to Snorri Sturluson, a medieval chieftain and historian. Here, you can visit Snorralaug, Iceland’s oldest preserved hot spring bath, built in the 12th century. The study center houses manuscripts of Snorri’s works, including the Prose Edda. You can also see the underground tunnel that Snorri used to escape assassins (though it didn’t save him).

Grabrok Crater

The Grabrok Crater is a short climb with great views from the top. This 170-meter-high crater formed 3,400 years ago, during the eruption that created the Hallmundarhraun lava field. The surrounding area shows how plants, like moss and Arctic thyme, gradually reclaim the lava fields.

Glymur waterfall

Iceland’s second-highest waterfall drops 198 meters into a narrow canyon. The 2-hour hike is challenging, with river crossings and narrow ledges, but the views are rewarding. The falls weren’t discovered until 1907 because the canyon was too dangerous to explore before modern climbing gear.

Where to stay

Consider staying in Reykholt, a historical village with rich saga heritage, offering a peaceful atmosphere and accommodations close to hot springs and waterfalls.

Day 13: Reykjavík City

Travel time: 1 hour from Borgarfjördur 

Description The world's northernmost capital is one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities of the world. Spend the day exploring the downtown area, checking out its landmarks and museums. The city also has a thriving cultural scene, with plenty of music, design shops, art galleries, and great restaurants.

Things to do

End your 14 day Iceland itinerary with a mix of culture, history, and great food in Iceland’s vibrant capital.

Hallgrimskirkja Church

This Lutheran church is known for its unique design, inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava columns. It took 41 years to complete, and its 73-meter tower offers panoramic views of the city. Inside, the massive pipe organ has 5,275 pipes. 

Laugavegur Main Street

Reykjavík’s main shopping street has come a long way. Once a path for women carrying laundry to hot springs, it’s now the heart of the city, lined with colorful houses and modern boutiques. In the summer, the street becomes pedestrian-only on weekends, with plenty of great places to eat.

The many museums of Reykjavik

Reykjavík has a great selection of museums to check out. The National Museum takes you through Iceland’s 1,200-year history. The Whales of Iceland exhibition has life-size models of the local whale species. Art lovers can explore the Reykjavík Art Museum, which spans three locations and highlights both Icelandic and international contemporary art. For something a little different, the Phallological Museum showcases a rather… unique collection that’s sure to surprise you. 

Reykjavik food scene 

Reykjavík offers a range of dining options, from traditional fermented shark at Kolaportið flea market to New Nordic cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants. Be sure to try the famous hot dog stand, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a spot even Bill Clinton has visited. The Grandi food hall is a good place to sample local specialties like Arctic char and Icelandic lamb.

Day 14: Departure Day

Travel time: 45 minutes from Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport

On your last day, depending on your flight time, grab breakfast and check out Kolaportið Flea Market. It’s the best place to pick up an Icelandic wool sweater (lopapeysa) at a good price. You’ll find handmade items from local crafters and some great vintage finds. Keep in mind, it’s only open on weekends.

Grái Kötturinn is cozy basement café is a local favorite known for hearty portions of traditional Icelandic breakfast. Their "Truck" breakfast with eggs, bacon, pancakes, and strong coffee is perfect for early departures. 

You’ll want to arrive 3 hours before international flights as the airport can get very busy.

Prepare for your 14-day Iceland itinerary

Our local travel experts have put together these itineraries to make your trip planning easy and unforgettable. Don’t want to spend hours researching? Try our custom travel planning service. It’s completely customizable, so you can create a trip that’s just right for you.

Ready to start planning? Grab Rough Guide to Iceland.