Self-Drive Holidays in Iceland: Ring Road & Northern Lights Road Trips
Driving in Iceland is an absolute pleasure. The road system is well-developed and easy to navigate. Route 1, commonly known as the Ring Road, was completed in 1974 and since then has become the most traveled route in Iceland. The route is open all year round. However, weather conditions in winter can cause temporary closures. Most major highways are paved, but most of the countryside road system is made up of gravel roads, particularly in the highlands. These roads can be in various conditions, with potholes or washboard surfaces, but with extra attention and care, you will have a comfortable driving tour.
Our self-drive tours of Iceland allow you to explore the land at your own pace. We will book your accommodations in advance so you can have a fun day driving around and enjoying the beautiful countryside. To make your driving experience easy and relaxing, we will provide a very detailed travel itinerary in English, including maps and information about driving in Iceland.
All roads are easy to follow and numbered. Highland routes are also signed, but some have unbridged rivers that require extra care and should not be attempted alone!
The minimum age for driving a rented car in Iceland is 23 for 4WD jeeps, vans, and minivans. For all other vehicle types, the minimum age is 20. All European and US driving licenses are valid in Iceland. Visitors from other countries should check with their local motoring organization.
Drive on the right, keep your headlights and seatbelts on at all times, and enjoy the freedom of the open road!
Iceland Grand Discovery
- Visit all the well-known attractions along the Ring Road.
- Explore the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the less known but incredibly beautiful northeast coast at the edge of the Arctic Circle.
- Explore the breath-taking views and hidden gems of the rugged Westfjords region.
- Experience the amazing variety of landscapes and unforgettable images of this North Atlantic island.
Majestic Fjords
- Combine the “must-see” places along with Ring Road with the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s more secluded gems
- Discover the ancient, rugged landscapes and distinctive cultures of Iceland’s Westfjords and Eastfjords
- Explore the majestic vistas of three national parks: Þingvellir, Vatnajökull, and Snæfellsjökull
- Have that camera ready: This itinerary has some of the country’s most amazing views, from steep fjords to black sand shores to volcanic formations
Around Iceland at a Leisurely Pace
This exciting road trip gives you extra time to enjoy each attraction on your Ring Road journey and is perfect if you wish to enjoy optional activities such as horse riding, glacier hiking, rafting, and snowmobiling.
Iceland’s Ring Road is more than just a highway! Some consider it a national landmark, just like the many sights and natural phenomena that line this scenic route. Some of our guests prefer staying more nights in each location, so we’ve taken our popular “Around Iceland” itinerary and built in extra days in each area. You’ll have ample time to enjoy local experiences, visit lesser-known wonders, and try unforgettable activities.
Hot Springs and Cool Arctic Roads Sep 24 – Apr 25
- Enjoy wonderful opportunities for hot spring bathing near the Arctic Circle
- Visit two charming towns, each with its own character and activities: Húsavík, and Akureyri
- Take amazing photos of impressive natural wonders such as Goðafoss and the Hraunfoss waterfalls and the volcanic Lake Mývatn area
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Iceland Odyssey
Travel the full circle around Iceland and prepare for an overdose of scenery that is simply out of this world. As each days unfolds, you'll be surprised and delighted at the variety of experiences this beautiful island can offer, especially when driving past active volcanoes, blue icebergs, roaring waterfalls, and deep fjords on Iceland’s Ring Road.
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Iceland Complete Self-Drive Summer
- View first-hand many classic natural wonders, including the Golden Circle area, the Glacier Lagoon and Mývatn Nature Reserve
- Experience the amazing variety of landscapes along the Ring Road
- Make great use of your time with this introductory tour of Iceland and its unique regions
- Visit three spectacular national parks: Þingvellir, Vatnajökull, and Snæfellsjökull
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Spectacular West
Experience the unique and varied landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the magnificent Westfjords in western Iceland, which are truly a showcase of lava formations, glaciers, and Viking Saga history.
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Golden Circle Self-drive
This popular self-drive tour focuses on the many star attractions of Iceland’s beautiful south. Stopping at impressive waterfalls and gleaming glaciers along the way, the tour hits all the major hot spots of the region, including the famous attractions of the Golden Circle; Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park, and stunning black beaches.
Glacial Adventure
Experience a week of natural wonders during peak northern lights season. Explore Iceland’s famous south and south-west, the perfect setting for glaciers, volcanoes, black-sand beaches, and geysers.
What’s better than spending a week exploring natural wonders? It’s discovering natural wonders during prime northern lights viewing season! Drive the dramatic coastlines of Iceland’s volcanic south and southwest, discovering the glaciers, black sand beaches, and glorious waterfalls. View the major natural wonders that have made Iceland famous, enhanced by the beautiful lights and shadows of an Arctic winter.
Highlands and Lowlands
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Geysers, Glaciers and Waterfalls
This popular car rental package focuses on Iceland's number one attraction: The unforgettable nature!
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Iceland Landscapes
This 8 days road trip covers all of Iceland’s main attractions along the Ring Road.
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Ring Road Highlights
This best selling classic circle tour allows you to travel along Iceland's famous Ring Road and see all of Iceland's most main attractions in one trip.
A self-drive tour in Iceland is one of the most flexible and inspiring ways to explore Iceland and experience Iceland’s natural attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, unlimited mileage, and a complete self drive itinerary, travelers can enjoy an Iceland self drive holiday designed around their interests. From the entire Ring Road to hidden gems and west Iceland viewpoints, this travel style gives you complete freedom to discover Iceland exactly the way you want.
Why Choose Iceland Self-Drive Tours
Iceland self drive tours offer independence, comfort, and the chance to explore Iceland exactly how you want. With no fixed schedules or guided group tour limitations, you can stop for photos, visit hot springs, walk black sand beaches, and follow scenic roads at your own pace. These self drive tour packages are ideal for visiting Iceland with full control over your journey, making every moment feel personal and memorable.
Freedom and Flexibility for Your Self-Drive Adventure
A self drive tour gives you complete freedom to explore Iceland on your own terms, including south coast waterfalls, north Iceland fishing villages, and east Iceland fjords. You can choose your stops, adjust your detailed itinerary, and follow the road wherever the scenery leads. This flexibility makes self drive packages popular among most travelers who want comfort, independence, and the chance to discover Iceland beyond the beaten path.
Explore Iceland’s Natural Beauty at Your Own Pace
When you travel at your own pace, you can enjoy Iceland’s volcano fields, glacier areas, natural wonders, and iconic attractions without hurry. A drive tour in Iceland lets you experience Icelandic horses, whale watching spots, ice caves, and coastal cliffs as long as you want. It’s the ultimate way to explore Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and discover quiet viewpoints, midnight sun moments, and spontaneous stops throughout your Iceland driving tour.
The Best Time to Plan a Road Trip to Iceland
The best self drive tour depends on the time of year and your goals. Summer self drive tours offer long daylight hours, mild weather, and easy gravel roads, while winter self drive tours bring northern lights, snow-covered scenery, and icy adventure. Iceland self drive packages are available year-round, and each season offers a unique Iceland experience. The right trip depends on weather conditions, daylight, and what natural wonders you want to see.
Top Routes for Your Self-Drive Tour in Iceland
Iceland is one of the easiest countries to explore by car, and its scenic routes make every mile rewarding. From the Golden Circle to the entire Ring Road, a self drive road trip lets you see must see sights without rushing. These classic routes highlight waterfalls, black sand beaches, geothermal areas, and remote regions at your own pace. With flexible timing, a reliable rental car, and Google Maps, an Iceland road trip becomes one of the best ways to experience Iceland.
Driving the Ring Road — Iceland’s Most Iconic Road Trip
The Ring Road circles the entire island and is considered the best way to discover Iceland. A self drive trip on this route lets you visit volcanoes, fjords, south Iceland’s cliffs, and the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Driving around Iceland gives you a complete overview of its geography, allowing you to stop at hidden viewpoints, small coastal villages, and dramatic cliff edges. For many visitors, this is the ultimate way to experience Iceland and explore remote regions on a single trip.
Scenic Drive Tours Through South Iceland & Beyond
South Iceland is one of the most popular regions for self drive tours because of its waterfalls, cliffs, black sand beaches, and glacier views. Here you’ll find the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and coastal routes with countless places to stop. Drive tours in Iceland help you explore highlights and hidden gems along the south coast while enjoying complete freedom. Add extra nights if you want to explore deeper and discover Iceland’s quieter regions.
Northern Lights Routes to Add to Your Self-Drive Plan
Winter self drive itineraries often include routes far from towns for better northern lights viewing. By driving into darker regions, you increase your chances of seeing the aurora. A self drive tour gives you the freedom to move quickly when the forecast improves, making the experience more exciting. Choose quiet lookouts, avoid crowds, and enjoy the winter landscape on your own terms while visiting Iceland in its most magical season.
Essential Tips for a Safe & Enjoyable Iceland Self-Drive
Iceland is safe for drivers, but weather conditions change quickly. A successful Iceland self drive tour requires checking the weather, monitoring speed limits, planning fuel stops, and choosing the right type of car rental. Pack warm layers, keep an eye on daylight hours, and always check road conditions. With preparation, driving around Iceland becomes a rewarding and unforgettable experience for any traveler.
What You Need to Know Before Driving to Iceland
Before your self drive trip, check weather alerts, car rental requirements, and whether you need an international driving permit. Some F-roads require 4x4s, and gravel roads can be challenging. Iceland’s roads are well marked, but conditions vary by season. With proper insurance, a detailed itinerary, and the right rental car, you can safely explore Iceland and avoid unnecessary risks.
Helpful Advice for Your Self-Drive Tour in Any Season
For your self drive tour, pack warm layers, plan extra photo stops, and monitor Google Maps for daily route updates. Staying flexible is essential in a country with fast-changing conditions. Trust local advice, check fuel regularly, and adjust your route when needed. With careful Iceland planning and unlimited mileage, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience across Iceland’s regions.
Book Your Iceland Self-Drive Tour Today
Ready to explore Iceland on your own schedule? Our Iceland self drive packages include a rental car, accommodations, guided excursions, and a detailed itinerary created by Iceland travel experts. Book your Iceland self drive tour today and discover Iceland’s natural attractions, the northern lights, and the freedom of exploring the island at your own pace. It’s the best way to have a genuine Iceland experience and the right trip for travelers who want flexibility, adventure, and complete freedom.
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