Approximate Distance:
210 km / 130 miles
Famous national park – Lively geysers – Golden waterfall
Today, you’ll visit the Golden Circle natural wonders. Start with Þingvellir National Park, site of the ancient Icelandic Viking parliament and a jewel of nature. Here you can see the meeting point between the North American and Europe continents. If you enjoy adventure, you might try snorkelling in clear waters between two continents.
Explore Gullfoss, the “Golden Waterfall”, and the nearby Geysir hot spring area to see the famous Geysir and Strokkur, as well as numerous other hot springs and boiling mud pools. While in the area, take advantage of relaxing in one of the hot spring-fed pools that make Iceland so famous. The Secret Lagoon is a historical swimming pool with an all-natural feel and its own little geyser. The Laugarvatn Fontana steam baths are a local favourite; natural steam soothes away aches and pains, followed by relaxation in a series of hot spring pools.
Complete the Golden Circle with a visit to the impressive Kerið implosion crater that has a pool of brilliant blue water in the centre. Please note there is a small admission fee (about ÍSK600), and the money goes into protecting the landscape and the nature of the area.
Overnight in Hveragerði.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in Hveragerði
• 130 miles

Approximate Distance:
variable
An open day to enjoy the area
We’ve left today open so you can discover more of the local treasures South Iceland holds. Try activities like hiking, guided mountain biking or horseback riding in this scenic hot spring-filled area. Or you can simply spend the day relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere of the town and its galleries and cafés.
You might take the South Coast road to the charming coastal villages of Stokkseyri and Eyrarbakki, both with lovely old buildings and great seafood restaurants. You could also drive through the beautiful Þjórsárdalur valley towards the Hekla volcano. This area was a filming location for the Game of Thrones series. For those up for some hiking (during the summer months), the walk up to Háifoss, the third highest waterfall in Iceland, is worth the trip!
Overnight in Hveragerði.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in Hveragerði

Approximate Distance:
230 km / 143 miles
Thundering waterfalls – Black sand beaches – Lava fields
Drive along the spectacular south coast and view highlights along the way such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Seljalandsfoss has a hiking trail that leads behind the waterfall (subject to weather and trail conditions). Skógafoss is a perfectly shaped waterfall that legends say hides buried treasure. Near Skógafoss is a fascinating folk museum with historical buildings and everyday items that show how locals lived in this area over the centuries.
Solheimajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers offer great opportunities for guided snowmobile or ice hiking tours. You can even try kayaking in the small glacier lake near Solheimajökull.
Head to Vík, Iceland’s southernmost village. In the area you can view the seabird cliff of Dyrhólaey*and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara.
Continue over Eldhraun, Iceland’s largest single lava flow, the result of a devastating 18th century eruption.
If you are visiting Iceland between May and September, a final stop of the day might be the stunning Fjaðrargljúfur canyon, which is a treat to photograph and roam.
Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
*Please note that Dyrhólaey is closed during nesting season in spring, from around mid-May until June 23rd.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area
• 143 miles

Approximate Distance:
205 km / 128 miles
Glacier-rimmed oasis – Iceberg lagoon – Europe’s largest glacier
Today you will be in the southern area of Vatnajökull National Park, named after Europe’s largest glacier. Visit the park’s amazing Skaftafell area, a green oasis nestled between glaciers that offers many hiking possibilities. A popular trail leads to the basalt lined Svartifoss Waterfall (possible during summer months). Skaftafell is also a beautiful area to enjoy guided hiking on one of the glaciers. We suggest stopping at the Visitor’s Centre to see what trails are open during the time of your visit.
Continue to the shimmering icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, where you should take time to admire the views of the icebergs floating in the cool waters. An interesting experience you might enjoy is an amphibian or Zodiac boat tour that sails between the ice bergs (summer only). Nearby is the Diamond Beach, an area of glittering bits of glass-like ice scattered across black sands.
Continue onwards, perhaps taking a detour to the beautiful and much photographed mountain of Vestrahorn. Head on to harbour town of Höfn, also known as the langoustine capital of northern Europe.
Overnight in the Höfn area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Höfn area
• 128 miles

Approximate Distance:
300 km / 186 miles
Narrow fjords – Steep mountains – Picturesque coastline
Drive through the spectacular Eastfjords region with towering mountains and charming fishing villages to the fertile Egilsstaðir area. On the way, you might visit the quirky egg sculptures in the harbour of charming Djúpivogur village. Anyone who enjoys offbeat attractions – particularly geology buffs or garden enthusiasts –will want to visit Petra’s Mineral Collection, a museum of natural stones and mineral rocks created by a local resident (open during the summer).
You can either drive straight to Egilsstaðir or, during the summer, head along the East Fjords, one of the oldest regions in Iceland, shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age. Although many are uninhabited, each fjord has its own grandeur. Some of the unique villages include Fáskrúðsfjörður and its interesting French connection, Reyðarfjörður and its World War II heritage, and Eskifjörður with its fishing traditions.
In the Egilsstaðir area, you can visit the beautiful Hallormsstaður forest, and a river reputed to be the home of a friendly sea monster. Perhaps you’ll end the day at Lake Urriðavatn’s Vök Baths, where you can unwind in untouched nature in distinctive floating geothermal pools.
Overnight in the Eastfjords area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Eastfjords area
• 186 miles

Approximate Distance:
Variable
Open day in the beautiful east
Drive to enchanting Seyðisfjörður village with its well-preserved wooden houses, steep mountains, and picture-perfect fjord scenery. The town has become a residency for artists, and you’ll certainly see interesting artistic works around the area.
Summer suggestion: Head to Bakkagerði (Borgarfjörður Eystri), one of Iceland’s smallest villages. What it lacks in human population, it makes up for with other “residents.” Local legends say it contains the largest colonies of elves and fairies in the country. There also is a bird viewing platform where you can glimpse many seabirds, including colourful puffins, up close. (Puffins are generally in Iceland between mid-May and mid-August.)
Other places you could visit in East Iceland include the ribbon-like Hengifoss waterfall or the serene Hallormsstaðir National Forest.
Another unique – and highly reviewed – place to visit is the Wilderness Center. This old farm turned into a living history exhibition sits at the edge of the wild eastern highlands. You’ll enjoy the interactive exhibit about the area’s history and wildlife. The Center also offers guided horseback riding and hiking trips and a relaxing Wilderness Spa. The farmhouse café serves tasty treats with locally sourced ingredients from farms and the wilderness.
Overnight in the Eastfjords area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Eastfjords area

Approximate Distance:
165 km / 102 miles
Bizarre lava formations – Geothermal activity – Volcanic wonderland
Drive to the volcanic wonderland of Lake Mývatn and the surrounding area. Visit volcanic highlights such as the lava citadels at Dimmuborgir, the pseudo craters at Skútustaðir, the colourful sulphurous slopes of Námaskarð, and the Krafla volcano area. Some spots in the region look otherworldly; it’s no surprise that several famous movies and television shows have been filmed in Mývatn.
After a day of amazing sights, it is a wonderful option to take a dip in the soothing azure waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths.
Overnight in the Lake Mývatn area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Lake Mývatn area
• 102 miles

Approximate Distance:
250 km / 155 miles
Europe’s most powerful waterfall – Glacier-carved gorge – Whale watching
Drive north to the charming fishing port of Húsavík, where we suggest you stop to enjoy a whale-watching boat tour. The internationally famous Whale Museum should also be on your list. If you want to indulge in some hot spring relaxation, we definitely recommend the unique geothermal sea bathing at the GeoSea Natural Baths.
Head around the fossil rich Tjörnes peninsula on the edge of the Arctic Circle to Jökulsargljúfur, the northern part of Vatnajökull National Park. Check out Ásbyrgi, a magnificent horseshoe shaped canyon in the park. Trails wind through peaceful forested areas to a hidden canyon lake. The national park roads take you through dramatic canyonlands created by a river flowing from Vatnajökull glacier. The crown jewel of the area is surely Dettifoss waterfall, the most powerful one in Europe.* Return to the Mývatn area for your overnight.
*Possible between late May and September. It is not possible to visit Dettifoss between October and April, as the roads to the waterfall are closed.
Overnight in the Lake Mývatn area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Lake Mývatn area
• 155 miles

Approximate Distance:
255 km / 158 miles
Waterfall of the gods – Gorgeous fjord views – Charming towns
Drive westward, visiting beautiful Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods. Take some time to visit Akureyri, Iceland’s culturally lively northern “capital.” This pretty town is full of interesting shops and museums, as well as a well-kept botanical garden.
Drive to Siglufjörður along one of Iceland’s most dramatic coastlines, enjoying a unique view towards the North Atlantic. This is the region of the Troll Peninsula, where the steep Icelandic mountains drop towards the sea. The town of Siglufjörður itself has many beautifully restored, colourful buildings. One of the most interesting (and unique) places to visit is the Herring Era Maritime Museum, where you’ll step back into the early 20th century when this small town became an international fishing boom town.
Once leaving Siglufjörður, you’ll enter Skagafjörður, an area known for its historical heritage and an abundance of purebred Icelandic horses.
Overnight in Northwest Iceland.
Please Note: The Ring Road route today contains a toll tunnel. More information on the tunnel and fees is here.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in Northwest Iceland
• 158 miles

Approximate Distance:
310 km / 192 miles
Viking heritage – Picturesque waterfalls – Powerful hot spring
Drive along the northern coast of Iceland on the way to the beautiful western part of the country.
Explore the gem of Borgarfjörður, a charming area of volcanic landscapes and Viking history. This is one of our favourite areas to find beautiful handicrafts and taste local farm products. West Iceland was one of the country’s areas to be settled by Viking pioneers. If you’re interested in Viking history, we suggest a stop at the interactive Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borgarnes town.
Visit the brilliantly blue waters of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss falls, and the powerful hot spring Deildartunguhver. Near the hot springs is Krauma, the relaxing “fire and ice” geothermal spa that uses a soothing blend of hot springs and glacier water.
There are several optional activities you can enjoy such as the lava tunnel Víðgelmir, venturing inside a glacier, or taking a guided hike to a hidden canyon hot spring pool.
Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area
• 192 miles

Approximate Distance:
370 km / 230 miles
Quaint fishing villages – Picturesque waterfalls – Scenic fjord
Today, you will explore the ever-changing beauty of Snæfellsnes peninsula and Snæfellsjökull National Park. Snæfellsnes is known as “Iceland in a Nutshell” since you can see samples of most Icelandic landscapes in one area.
Visit Arnarstapi sea cliffs where many types of seabirds live. If you enjoy hiking, there is a great nature trail you can hike between Arnarstapi and Hellnar villages. (4.3 km/2.7 miles). Crowning the area is the glacier topped Snæfellsjökull volcano, legendary home to a guardian spirit.
Visit Djúpalónssandur with its mysteriously shaped rocks and black pebbled beach. Then head along the north coast through lively fishing villages. Keep an eye out for Kirkjufell, the photogenic Church Mountain.
You can enjoy guided activities in the region such as visiting Vatnshellir lava cave, whale watching near Ólafsvík, and summer sea kayaking in the vicinity of Kirkjufell.
Drive through scenic Hvalfjörður (a fjord named after a legendary red-headed whale) on the way to Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital.  As you head to the city, you might enjoy the rustic and relaxing Hvammsvík seawater baths. You’ll feel close to nature as you relax in a series of stone-lined pools with scenic views.
Overnight in Reykjavík.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in Reykjavík
• 230 miles

Approximate Distance:
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Enjoy your day in the world’s northernmost capital city!
No trip to Iceland is complete without a visit to Iceland’s capital city! Your day is open to explore the vibrant culture of Reykjavík. Guided walking tours are a great way to learn about the history and daily life of the city. One of our favourite tours is the Reykjavík Food Walk, a small-group tour that includes stops to sample Icelandic taste treats. Stroll the Old Harbour area, known for its artistic shops and unique eateries, including the Grandi Food Hall. Browse for Icelandic products on Laugavegur, Iceland’s main shopping street.
It’s also fun to explore the areas around the city with your car. The Árbæjarsafn Museum is an Open-Air Museum with a collection of houses from two hundred years of Reykjavík’s history. You can stroll around the “village” and see how people lived in the past. Hafnarfjörður town has an interesting connection to legends of elves and Hidden People, and a charming harbour area that is ideal for a seaside walk and a visit to a café or art shop.
Do you like hiking? During the summertime, a very local activity you might enjoy on your own is a hike up the beautiful Mount Esja outside the city, followed up with waffles and coffee at a Reykjavík café and a dip in a geothermal swimming pool.
The Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík is another highly recommended experience.  Step into a new type of wellness and relaxation with the Sky Lagoon’s The Ritual, a truly unique seven-step spa journey that’s at the heart of Iceland’s newest geothermal experience.
You can also enjoy year-round outdoor activities in the area, including horseback riding through lava fields, a visit to a multicoloured lava cave, guided ATV tours up a nearby mountain, and whale watching from the Old Harbour area.
Overnight in Reykjavík.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in Reykjavík

Approximate Distance:
50 km / 30 miles
Drive back to Keflavík International Airport. We recommend departing your hotel in Reykjavík no later than at least 3 hours before your flight departure. It takes approximately 1 hour to drive to the airport, and check-in will start 2 hours before your departure.
If you did not visit the Blue Lagoon on your first day but have some free time today, you might want to use the opportunity en route to the airport. For this detour, please be sure to allow for at least 2-2,5 hours extra so you’ll have ample time at the lagoon. Your rental car should be returned to the airport service area, which is located only 2 minutes from the airport building. A shuttle will then transport you to the departure hall.

• Breakfast
• 30 miles