Most travelers will find that a week to eight days is perfect for a well-paced Iceland trip with stops in Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Travelers with less time can hit the route’s highlights in five or six days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include West Iceland, Westman Islands, or Reykjanes Peninsula. Keep reading for more inspiring Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula itineraries.
Determining the Ideal Trip Length: Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast & Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Planning a trip to Iceland and trying to decide how many days to allocate to exploring the wonders of Reykjavík, the famed Golden Circle, the dramatic South Coast, and the captivating Snæfellsnes Peninsula? This is a common question for first-time visitors, and the answer depends largely on your desired pace and the depth of experience you seek.
- For a comprehensive experience, most travelers find that 7 to 8 days is an ideal timeframe to explore Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in combination. This allows for a comfortable pace and the opportunity to truly soak in the beauty of each location.
- It is, of course, possible to visit Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in a shorter timeframe, such as 5 or 6 days. However, be prepared for a more rushed experience, with less time for leisurely exploration and spontaneous detours. You might find yourself spending more time driving and less time truly enjoying each destination.
- If you have the luxury of 9 or more days, the possibilities expand significantly. Most travelers in this situation choose to add even more stops to their Icelandic adventure, venturing beyond the core destinations.
- Popular extensions for longer trips include exploring the less-traveled landscapes of West Iceland, taking a ferry to the volcanic Westman Islands, or discovering the unique geological features of the Reykjanes Peninsula. These extensions offer a chance to delve deeper into Iceland’s diverse offerings.
Suggested Itineraries for Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula Exploration
To help you visualize your trip, here are some suggested itineraries based on different timeframes, focusing on Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Each itinerary offers a unique balance of popular attractions and hidden gems, ensuring an unforgettable Icelandic experience.
A Recommended Itinerary for One Week of Icelandic Adventure
This itinerary prioritizes the highlights of three distinct regions, offering a taste of Iceland’s diverse landscapes in just seven days.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive at Keflavik International Airport, pick up your rental car, and embark on a scenic drive to the captivating Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Settle into your accommodation and prepare for exploration. | Snæfellsnes Peninsula |
| Day 2 | Dedicate the day to fully exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Discover dramatic black-sand beaches, charming fishing towns with their colorful houses, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain. | Snæfellsnes Peninsula |
| Day 3 | Embark on a journey along the renowned Golden Circle route, marveling at the geothermal wonders of Geysir, the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, and the historical significance of Þingvellir National Park. | Golden Circle |
| Day 4 | Drive along the stunning South Coast, stopping to admire the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Explore the black-sand beaches near Vík and marvel at the towering cliffs of Dyrhólaey. | Kirkjubæjarklaustur |
| Day 5 | Continue your South Coast adventure, discovering the breathtaking landscapes of Skaftafell Nature Reserve, hiking to the stunning Svartifoss waterfall, and witnessing the awe-inspiring Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon with its floating icebergs. | Kirkjubæjarklaustur |
| Day 6 | Begin your journey back towards Reykjavík, retracing your steps along the South Coast and making time for any sights you may have missed on the way. | Reykjavík |
| Day 7 | Explore the unique geological features of the Reykjanes Peninsula, including geothermal areas, dramatic coastlines, and the Bridge Between Continents. Depart from Keflavik International Airport in the evening. |
With just one week, you can experience a condensed version of Iceland’s most stunning regions. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers black-sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and quaint fishing towns, while the Golden Circle showcases remarkable geothermal activity. The South Coast is a land of powerful waterfalls and imposing glaciers. Finish your trip with a tour of Reykjavík and the geothermal hotspots of the Reykjanes Peninsula, taking advantage of the many opportunities to relax in the naturally heated lagoons and pools.
A Recommended Itinerary for Eight Days of Exploration
This eight-day self-drive itinerary balances famous attractions such as the South Coast and Golden Circle with the hidden beauty of the Snæfellsnes and Reykjanes Peninsulas. This provides the ultimate Icelandic experience.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive at Keflavik International Airport and transfer to downtown Reykjavík. Spend the day exploring the city’s charming streets, colorful buildings, and cultural attractions. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and sample local cuisine. | Reykjavík |
| Day 2 | Pick up your rental car and embark on a scenic drive towards the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. En route, take a detour to hike to the stunning Glymur Falls, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall. Continue to the town of Borgarnes and enjoy the views. | Snæfellsnes Peninsula |
| Day 3 | Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Explore the black-sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur and Dritvík, visit the charming fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, and marvel at the iconic Kirkjufell mountain. | Snæfellsnes Peninsula |
| Day 4 | Continue exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, discovering hidden gems and scenic viewpoints. In the afternoon, begin your journey towards the Golden Circle region. | Golden Circle |
| Day 5 | Explore the highlights of the South Coast, including the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Visit the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara near Vík, with its basalt columns and dramatic sea stacks. | Vík |
| Day 6 | Continue your journey along the South Coast towards Skaftafell Nature Reserve. Hike to the stunning Svartifoss waterfall and witness the awe-inspiring Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, with its floating icebergs. | Vík |
| Day 7 | Drive back towards Reykjavík along the South Coast, allowing time to revisit favorite spots or discover new ones. Stop at any sights that you may have missed on the way. | Reykjavík |
| Day 8 | Explore the geothermal areas and volcanic landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Visit the Bridge Between Continents, and enjoy a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon before departing from Keflavik International Airport. |
After a day in Reykjavík, you will head west where you can find amazing hiking trails, lava fields, and small fishing towns on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Called “Iceland in miniature”, it is the perfect place to start your adventure. Next up, the world-famous Golden Circle and lastly, the black sand beaches, dramatic waterfalls, and majestic glaciers of the South Coast.
Consult with a local expert to help you create the ideal trip.
Extended Itineraries: Delving Deeper into Iceland
For those with more time to spare, extended itineraries offer the opportunity to explore regions beyond the popular south and west, venturing into the less-traveled north and east of Iceland. These longer trips provide a more comprehensive understanding of the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural nuances.
A 10-Day Itinerary Including the East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri
This 10-day itinerary offers a captivating loop around Iceland, incorporating the highlights of the south and west with the unique attractions of the north and east.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive at Keflavik International Airport and transfer to downtown Reykjavík. Explore the city’s highlights and enjoy the local atmosphere. | Reykjavík |
| Day 2 | Drive north towards the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, stopping to hike to Glymur Falls along the way. | Snæfellsnes Peninsula |
| Day 3 | Enjoy the scenic drive from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Akureyri, the “capital of the north.” | Akureyri |
| Day 4 | Explore the northern region, visiting the majestic Goðafoss waterfall, embarking on a whale watching tour, and marveling at the powerful Dettifoss waterfall. | Lake Mývatn |
| Day 5 | Discover the geological wonders of Lake Myvatn, including geothermal areas, volcanic craters, and unique rock formations. | Lake Mývatn |
| Day 6 | Drive through the scenic Eastern Fjords, with their dramatic coastlines and charming fishing villages. | Seydisfjordur |
| Day 7 | Visit the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, and explore Skaftafell Nature Reserve. | Kirkjubæjarklaustur |
| Day 8 | Explore the waterfalls and black-sand beaches of the South Coast and begin your journey towards the Golden Circle. | Golden Circle |
| Day 9 | Explore the Golden Circle, visiting Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir National Park, before returning to Reykjavík. | Reykjavík |
| Day 10 | Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula and depart from Keflavik International Airport. |
With 10 days, you will see a large variety of different landscapes and regions by driving on Iceland’s famous Route 1 (Ring Road). See all the best spots along the 828-mile route. You will visit the two biggest cities as well as volcanoes, waterfalls, lava fields, black sand beaches, fishing towns, massive glaciers, and major attractions in the Golden Circle.
A 12-Day Itinerary Including the East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and Laugarbakki
This 12-day itinerary provides a blend of exciting activities and iconic experiences, exploring many of Iceland’s top destinations.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Keflavík, explore the Reykjanes peninsula, and enjoy an ATV tour. | Golden Circle |
| Day 2 | Explore the Golden Circle and relax in the Fontana Geothermal Baths. | Golden Circle |
| Day 3 | Travel from Hvolsvollur to Thorsmork, explore the Thorsmork Nature Reserve, transfer back to Hvolsvollur, and visit the South Coast waterfalls and black sand beaches. | Vík |
| Day 4 | Enjoy a zipline adventure tour, explore the South Coast waterfalls and black sand beaches, and take an Icelandic horse riding tour. | Vík |
| Day 5 | Visit Fjadrargljufur canyon, Skaftafell Nature Reserve, and the Glacier Lagoons. | Höfn |
| Day 6 | Explore the Eastfjords and relax in the Geothermal Vok Baths. | Egilsstaðir |
| Day 7 | Visit Studlagil canyon and explore the wonders of Lake Myvatn. | Lake Mývatn |
| Day 8 | Visit Dettifoss, Jokulsargljufur, and Husavik, and explore the wonders of Lake Myvatn. | Lake Mývatn |
| Day 9 | Explore North West Iceland, visit Akureyri and Godafoss, and relax in the Bjórböðin Beer Baths. | Laugarbakki |
| Day 10 | Explore the wonders of Snaefellsnes. | Snæfellsnes Peninsula |
| Day 11 | Continue exploring the wonders of Snaefellsnes, take a lava cave tour, and travel to Reykjavík. | Reykjavík |
| Day 12 | Explore Downtown Reykjavik and depart from Keflavik International Airport. |
Packed with exciting activities from the off-beat to iconic experiences, this 12-day adventure allows you to explore Iceland’s top sites. Experience the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, the geological wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Gullfoss, Dettifoss, and Goðafoss waterfalls. Enjoy ziplining, rides by ATV and horseback on black-sand beaches, hiking in Þórsmörk and Fjaðrárgljúfur canyons, and soaks in geothermal lagoons and beer-filled hot tubs.
A Two-Week Itinerary Including Westfjords, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn & Akureyri
With two weeks, visitors are able to drive the entire Ring Road. Detours can be added to see even more of the beautiful countryside.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Reykjavík and explore the city. | Reykjavík |
| Day 2 | Travel North to Glymur Falls and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. | Snæfellsnes Peninsula |
| Day 3 | Visit the black sand beaches and fishing towns of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. | Snæfellsnes Peninsula |
| Day 4 | Take a Ferry From Snaefellsnes Peninsula to the Westfjords. | Patreksfjörður |
| Day 5 | See Southern Westfjords: Látrabjarg & Dynjandi. | Ísafjörður |
| Day 6 | Go Hiking in Isafjordur or Hornstrandir. | Ísafjörður |
| Day 7 | Enjoy the Scenic Drive from Isafjordur to Akureyri. | Akureyri |
| Day 8 | Visit Godafoss, go Whale Watching, and visit Big Waterfalls. | Lake Mývatn |
| Day 9 | Explore the Geological Wonders of Lake Myvatn. | Lake Mývatn |
| Day 10 | Enjoy the Scenic Eastern Fjords. | Seydisfjordur |
| Day 11 | Travel from Seydisfjordur to Djúpivogur. | Djupivogur |
| Day 12 | Experience Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Skaftafell. | Kirkjubæjarklaustur |
| Day 13 | Visit the South Coast Waterfalls, Black Sand Beaches and the Start of the Golden Circle. | Golden Circle |
| Day 14 | Return to Reykjavík. |
Complete the entire Ring Road and add detours with two weeks in Iceland. This grand tour will bring you to the best places and allow time to hike, explore, and take it all in. This itinerary allows time for the major regions except the highlands. Adding a couple more days will allow you to see those, too.
Navigating Between Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
One of the great advantages of exploring these regions of Iceland is their relative accessibility. Whether you choose to rent a car and embark on a self-drive adventure or opt for organized tours, getting around is generally straightforward.
Reaching the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is easily accessible by car. It is possible to tour the entire area in one day. However, giving yourself more time allows for more exploration of the expansive beauty that exists there. The drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavík is approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The drive itself is scenic, offering glimpses of the Icelandic countryside. Once on the peninsula, the main road (Route 54) circles the entire area, making it easy to access the various attractions.
Reaching the South Coast of Iceland
The South Coast of Iceland, spanning from just outside Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón, is easily drivable along the Ring Road highway (Route 1). The route is easily accessible from Keflavík International Airport and the domestic airport in Reykjavík, or from downtown Reykjavík, at only a 45-minute drive. The South Coast has incredible scenery, including glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland.
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