Seven to eight days is the most popular trip length for Iceland travelers interested in visiting both Reykjavík and the South Coast, especially when also including the Golden Circle and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. For travelers wanting to visit Reykjavík and the South Coast exclusively, plan five to seven days for a well-paced trip. With less time, it’s still possible to see the highlights in as few as two to four days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Reykjavík and the South Coast and beyond.
## Exploring Reykjavík and the South Coast: A Detailed Guide to Unforgettable Icelandic Adventures
Iceland, a land of fire and ice, offers a breathtaking array of landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to majestic glaciers. Among its most captivating regions are the vibrant capital of Reykjavík and the stunning South Coast, a stretch of dramatic scenery that promises an unforgettable travel experience. Planning the perfect trip requires careful consideration of how much time to dedicate to this region. This guide will provide detailed itinerary options to maximize your time and discover the best that Reykjavík and the South Coast have to offer.
### Determining the Ideal Length of Your Stay in Reykjavík and the South Coast
When planning your Icelandic adventure, the question of how many days to allocate to Reykjavík and the South Coast is paramount. While the allure of seeing it all is strong, realistically assessing your travel style and pace is crucial.
* **Most travelers find that 5-7 days provides a balanced experience** allowing for thorough exploration of the region’s highlights without feeling overly rushed. This duration provides ample opportunity to soak in the atmosphere of Reykjavík, discover the iconic waterfalls and black-sand beaches of the South Coast, and perhaps even indulge in some adventurous activities.
* **A shorter trip, ranging from 2 to 4 days, is certainly feasible**, but be prepared for a whirlwind tour. While you’ll be able to see the major landmarks, the pace will be demanding, and you might miss out on the chance to delve deeper into the local culture or enjoy spontaneous detours. Such a trip requires meticulous planning and prioritizing the must-see attractions.
* **For those fortunate enough to have 8 or more days**, the possibilities expand significantly. This extended timeframe allows for venturing beyond the South Coast and incorporating other remarkable destinations into your itinerary. Popular choices include exploring the renowned Golden Circle, discovering the geothermal wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula, or venturing into the captivating landscapes of West Iceland. With more time, you can truly immerse yourself in the diversity of Icelandic landscapes and experiences.
### Recommended Itineraries for Reykjavík & the South Coast
To help you craft the perfect itinerary, here are some carefully curated suggestions, catering to different timeframes and interests.
#### Recommended Itinerary for 5 Days
This itinerary focuses on the essential highlights of the South Coast, allowing you to experience the raw beauty of Iceland within a compact timeframe.
**Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Reykjavik**
Upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport, make your way to Reykjavík, the northernmost capital city in Europe. Settle into your accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring the charming downtown area. Visit Hallgrímskirkja church for panoramic views, stroll along the harbor, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of Reykjavík’s many restaurants, sampling fresh seafood or traditional Icelandic cuisine. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 2: The South Coast to Vik: Waterfalls, Beaches, Cliffs**
Embark on your South Coast adventure, setting your sights on the picturesque village of Vík. Along the way, stop at the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, where you can even walk behind the cascading water at Seljalandsfoss for a unique perspective. Continue to the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, marveling at the basalt columns and dramatic cliffs. Be cautious of the powerful waves that can unexpectedly surge onto the shore. Conclude the day in Vík, a charming village nestled beneath towering cliffs. Overnight in Vík.
**Day 3: Vik to Skaftafell, Svartifoss, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon**
Today’s journey takes you further east along the South Coast, towards the stunning Skaftafell Nature Reserve, part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park. Hike to the picturesque Svartifoss waterfall, framed by basalt columns. Continue to the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs of all shapes and sizes drift towards the sea. Witness the icebergs washing ashore on Diamond Beach, creating a surreal spectacle. Return to Vík for your overnight stay.
**Day 4: Drive & Explore South Coast Back to Reykjavik**
Enjoy a leisurely drive back towards Reykjavík, taking the opportunity to revisit favorite spots or discover new hidden gems along the way. Stop at the Sólheimajökull glacier for a guided ice-climbing or glacier-walking tour. Explore the Dyrhólaey arch, offering stunning views of the coastline. Spend the evening enjoying Reykjavík’s nightlife, perhaps catching live music or enjoying a late dinner. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 5: Visit the Reykjanes Peninsula & Depart From Reykjavík**
Before departing from Keflavík International Airport, dedicate some time to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula. This geothermal wonderland boasts dramatic landscapes, including lava fields, hot springs, and the iconic Blue Lagoon. Soak in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience before heading to the airport for your departure.
In less than a week, this self-drive tour allows you to experience the highlights along Iceland’s south coast, including waterfalls, black-sand beaches, basalt columns, cliffs, canyons, glaciers, and icebergs. Start and end the trip in Reykjavík for two nights in Europe’s most northerly capital, a growing city known for buzzing restaurants and nightlife.
#### Recommended Itinerary for 6 Days
This itinerary builds upon the 5-day itinerary by adding the renowned Golden Circle route, allowing you to experience even more of Iceland’s iconic attractions.
**Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik – Explore the city**
Similar to the 5-day itinerary, begin your journey in Reykjavík, exploring its vibrant streets and landmarks.
**Day 2: Discover the waterfalls and geysers of the Golden Circle**
Embark on a full-day excursion to the Golden Circle, a collection of three must-see attractions. Start with Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Witness the Geysir geothermal area, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes. Finally, marvel at the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. Overnight in Hvolsvollur.
**Day 3: Explore Iceland’s southern coast with stops in Skógafoss and Vík**
Continue your journey along the South Coast, stopping at Skógafoss and the village of Vík. Explore the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara and enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery. Overnight in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
**Day 4: Visit the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon**
Drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, spending ample time to admire the icebergs and potentially spot seals. Explore the nearby Diamond Beach and enjoy the stunning views. Overnight in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
**Day 5: Relax in the thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon**
Return towards Reykjavík, making a stop at the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters and reflect on your Icelandic adventure. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 6: Depart Iceland**
Depart from Keflavík International Airport, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Icelandic adventure.
This winter tour through Iceland’s south coast explores some of the country’s most beautiful scenery, stopping at the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Gullfoss, as well as the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara to observe the Dyrhólaey sea stacks. You’ll hike along glaciers in Vatnajökull National Park and stop to admire the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, all while hoping to catch the northern lights in the evening. Finally, explore the capital city of Reykjavík and the popular village of Vík, ending the trip with a soak in the milky waters of the Blue Lagoon.
### Extended Itineraries
For those with more time, consider these extended itineraries that incorporate additional regions and experiences.
#### 6-Day Itinerary Including the Golden Circle
**Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Reykjavik**
Same as the previous itineraries. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 2: The South Coast to Vik: Waterfalls, Beaches, Cliffs**
Same as the 5-day itinerary. Overnight in Vík.
**Day 3: Vik to Skaftafell, Svartifoss, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon**
Same as the 5-day itinerary. Overnight in Vík.
**Day 4: Drive back along South Coast: Vik to the Golden Circle**
Drive back along the South Coast, but instead of returning to Reykjavík, continue towards the Golden Circle region. This allows you to break up the journey and spend more time exploring the Golden Circle at a relaxed pace. Overnight in the Golden Circle area.
**Day 5: Golden Circle: Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir**
Explore the Golden Circle at your leisure, revisiting favorite spots or discovering new hidden gems. Consider hiking in Þingvellir National Park or taking a horseback riding tour. Overnight in the Golden Circle area.
**Day 6: Visit the Reykjanes Peninsula & Depart From Reykjavík**
Similar to the 5-day itinerary, visit the Reykjanes Peninsula and depart from Keflavík International Airport.
Starting in Reykjavík, this Icelandic road trip lets you visit highlights along the country’s south coast, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, basalt columns, massive glaciers, and icebergs. You’ll then join the popular Golden Circle route, where you can see Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal area of Geysir (watch Strokkur erupt like clockwork), and Þingvellir National Park, where tectonic plates meet. Finish with a soak in the Blue Lagoon before your return flight home.
#### 8-Day Itinerary Including the Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes Peninsula
**Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Reykjavik**
Same as the previous itineraries. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 2: Drive to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Hike in Glymur Falls, & Visit Borgarnes**
Embark on a scenic drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” due to its diverse landscapes. Stop at Glymur Falls for a challenging but rewarding hike. Visit the town of Borgarnes, known for its historical significance. Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 3: Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Black-Sand Beaches & Fishing Towns**
Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in detail, visiting black-sand beaches like Djúpalónssandur and Dritvík. Discover charming fishing towns like Arnarstapi and Hellnar, known for their dramatic coastal scenery. Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 4: Explore Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Travel to Golden Circle**
Continue exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula before driving towards the Golden Circle region in the late afternoon. This allows you to maximize your time on the peninsula and arrive at the Golden Circle in the evening. Overnight in the Golden Circle area.
**Day 5: The South Coast to Vik: Waterfalls, Beaches, Cliffs**
Drive from the Golden Circle to the South Coast, revisiting the iconic waterfalls, beaches, and cliffs. Overnight in Vík.
**Day 6: Vik to Skaftafell, Svartifoss, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon**
Same as the 5-day itinerary. Overnight in Vík.
**Day 7: Drive & Explore South Coast Back to Reykjavik**
Same as the 5-day itinerary. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 8: Visit the Reykjanes Peninsula & Depart From Reykjavík**
Same as the 5-day itinerary.
This self-drive itinerary provides a mix of popular highlights (south coast, Golden Circle) with off-the-beaten-path gems (Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Reykjanes Peninsula) for a real Icelandic adventure. After a day in Reykjavík, you’ll head west for hiking, lava fields, and small fishing towns along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. You’ll then hit the blockbuster sights of the Golden Circle before finishing on the south coast with black sand beaches, waterfalls, and glaciers.
#### 8-Day Itinerary Including Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn & Akureyri
**Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Reykjavik**
Same as the previous itineraries. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 2: North to Glymur Falls and Snaefellsnes Peninsula**
Similar to the previous Snæfellsnes Peninsula itinerary, drive north, stopping at Glymur Falls and continuing to the peninsula. Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 3: Scenic Drive from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Akureyri**
Embark on a long but scenic drive from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Akureyri, the “Capital of the North”. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you traverse the Icelandic countryside. Overnight in Akureyri.
**Day 4: The North: Godafoss, Whale Watching, and Big Waterfalls**
Explore the northern region, visiting the impressive Godafoss waterfall and perhaps embarking on a whale-watching tour from Akureyri. Continue to the Lake Mývatn area. Overnight in the Lake Mývatn area.
**Day 5: Geological Wonders of Lake Myvatn**
Explore the geological wonders of Lake Mývatn, including the Dimmuborgir lava formations, the Hverir geothermal area, and the Grjótagjá cave (featured in Game of Thrones). Overnight in the Lake Mývatn area.
**Day 6: Scenic Eastern Fjords**
Drive through the scenic East Fjords, admiring the dramatic coastal scenery and charming fishing villages. Overnight in Seydisfjordur.
**Day 7: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Skaftafell**
Drive along the South Coast, stopping at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Skaftafell Nature Reserve. Overnight in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
**Day 8: Back from South Coast, Reykjanes Peninsula, Departure**
Drive back from the South Coast, visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula before departing from Keflavík International Airport.
This itinerary packs a lot into eight days, but if you have limited time and have your heart set on driving the entire Ring Road, then this guide will be your best friend for the journey.
### How to Travel Between Reykjavík & South Coast
The South Coast of Iceland, spanning from just outside the capital city of Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón, is easily accessible by car. The most common and convenient way to travel is by driving along the Ring Road (Route 1), Iceland’s main highway. The beginning of the route is easily accessible from both Keflavík International Airport and the domestic airport in Reykjavík, or via downtown Reykjavík, with approximately a 45-minute drive to reach the starting point of the South Coast route. Driving allows for flexibility and the opportunity to stop at various attractions along the way.
B-1097