Most people visiting Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Westfjords spend about 12 to 14 days in Iceland, which usually includes some time on the Golden Circle, South Coast, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri as well. For travelers wanting to visit Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Westfjords exclusively, plan six to eight days for a well-paced trip. With less time, it’s still possible to see the highlights in as few as five days. For the best itineraries, including Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Westfjords, keep reading below.
## Exploring Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the Majestic Westfjords: A Comprehensive Guide
Planning a trip to Iceland and wondering how much time to dedicate to Reykjavík, the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the remote Westfjords? You’re in the right place! This guide will help you determine the ideal duration for your adventure, offering a variety of itinerary suggestions to suit different travel styles and time constraints.
Most travelers find that spending between six and eight days exploring Reykjavík, the captivating Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the breathtaking Westfjords provides a balanced and fulfilling experience. This timeframe allows for a comfortable pace, enabling you to soak in the unique landscapes and immerse yourselves in the local culture.
However, it is indeed possible to visit Reykjavík, the enchanting Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the rugged Westfjords in a shorter timeframe, such as five days. Be aware that such a condensed itinerary will likely feel rushed, requiring you to prioritize certain attractions and potentially miss out on some of the hidden gems these regions have to offer. If you’re short on time, meticulous planning is essential to maximize your experience.
On the other hand, with nine or more days at your disposal, the possibilities for exploration expand significantly. Most travelers with this extra time opt to add more stops to their itinerary, venturing further afield and delving deeper into Iceland’s diverse landscapes.
The most common extensions to these itineraries include the renowned Golden Circle, a classic route showcasing some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. Another popular option is West Iceland, a region brimming with historical sites, charming towns, and dramatic scenery. History buffs may also appreciate a detour to Reykholt, a significant cultural and historical center.
## Recommended Itineraries for Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Westfjords
Let’s delve into some specific itinerary recommendations to help you visualize your trip.
### Recommended Itinerary for 6 Days: A West Coast and Westfjords Adventure
This itinerary focuses on exploring Iceland’s less-traveled west coast and the remote Westfjords region, offering a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.
**Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Reykjavik**
Upon arrival in Iceland, make your way to Reykjavík, the vibrant capital city. Spend the day exploring the charming downtown area, visiting iconic landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager sculpture. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of Reykjavík’s many restaurants and soak in the city’s lively atmosphere. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 2: North to Glymur Falls and Snæfellsnes Peninsula**
Embark on a scenic drive north towards the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. En route, consider a hike to Glymur Falls, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall (note: this hike requires some physical fitness). Continue to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a region often referred to as “Miniature Iceland” due to its diverse landscapes. Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 3: Ferry From Snæfellsnes Peninsula to the Westfjords**
Explore more of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the morning, perhaps visiting the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi. In the afternoon, take a car ferry from Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Brjánslækur in the Westfjords, a convenient and scenic way to reach this remote region. Overnight in Patreksfjörður.
**Day 4: Southern Westfjords: Látrabjarg & Dynjandi**
Discover the wonders of the southern Westfjords. Visit Látrabjarg, Europe’s westernmost point and home to a massive bird cliff teeming with puffins and other seabirds (best visited during the summer months). Afterwards, marvel at the majestic Dynjandi Waterfall, a series of cascading waterfalls that create a truly unforgettable sight. Overnight in Ísafjörður.
**Day 5: Isafjordur or Hornstrandir Hiking**
Explore the charming town of Ísafjörður, the largest settlement in the Westfjords. Alternatively, consider a day trip to Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, a pristine wilderness area accessible only by boat. Hornstrandir offers incredible hiking opportunities and the chance to spot arctic foxes in their natural habitat. Overnight in Ísafjörður.
**Day 6: Scenic Drive: Isafjordur to Reykjavik**
Enjoy a scenic drive back to Reykjavík, taking in the stunning landscapes of the Westfjords and West Iceland. Stop at viewpoints along the way to capture the breathtaking scenery. Reflect on your incredible journey through Iceland’s western regions. Overnight in Reykjavík.
This self-drive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Iceland’s beautiful west coast and the remote Westfjords region, where fewer travelers venture. Starting in Reykjavík, the journey takes you to the volcanic Snæfellsnes Peninsula before embarking on a car ferry to some of the most dramatic landscapes Iceland has to offer. Hike along the jagged cliffs at Londrangar, discover black, gold, and red sand beaches, and witness the sheer power of the Dynjandi Waterfall. The trip culminates in Ísafjörður, which serves as a fantastic base for exploring the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, a region accessible only by boat and hiking trails, offering a truly immersive wilderness experience.
### Recommended Itinerary for 1 Week: Exploring the Westfjords in Depth
This weeklong itinerary focuses on the highlights of West Iceland and the remote Westfjords, offering a deeper dive into these lesser-visited areas.
**Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavík, Pick Up Rental Car & Tour West Iceland**
Arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), pick up your rental car, and begin your adventure by exploring West Iceland. This region offers a variety of attractions, including historical sites, charming towns, and stunning natural landscapes. Overnight in Laugarbakki.
**Day 2: Ferry to the Westfjords**
Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring more of West Iceland before heading to Stykkishólmur to catch the ferry to Brjánslækur in the Westfjords. This ferry ride provides a scenic introduction to the remote and rugged beauty of the Westfjords. Overnight in Patreksfjörður.
**Day 3: Hike the Látrabjarg Bird Cliffs, Visit Rauðasandur Beach**
Dedicate the day to exploring the southern Westfjords. Hike along the Látrabjarg bird cliffs, home to millions of seabirds, including puffins (seasonal). Afterwards, visit Rauðasandur Beach, a unique red-sand beach known for its stunning beauty. Overnight in Patreksfjörður.
**Day 4: Drive to Ísafjörður via Picnic at Dynjandi Waterfall**
Embark on a scenic drive to Ísafjörður, the largest town in the Westfjords. Make a stop at the majestic Dynjandi Waterfall for a picnic lunch and to marvel at its cascading beauty. Overnight in Ísafjörður.
**Day 5: Drive to Drangsnes via Hólmavík & Eastern Westfjords**
Explore the eastern Westfjords, driving through picturesque landscapes and charming fishing villages. Stop in Hólmavík, known for its Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft. Continue to Drangsnes, a small village famous for its hot tubs located right by the sea. Overnight in Drangsnes.
**Day 6: Return to Reykjavik, Explore**
Enjoy a scenic drive back to Reykjavík, taking in the diverse landscapes of Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavík, spend some time exploring the city’s attractions, perhaps visiting museums, art galleries, or enjoying a relaxing evening in a local pub. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 7: Explore Reykjanes Peninsula, Depart Reykjavík**
Before departing from Iceland, explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, a geothermal wonderland located near Keflavík International Airport. Visit the Bridge Between Continents, the Gunnuhver hot springs, and the Blue Lagoon (optional). Depart from Reykjavík.
This weeklong trip is designed to showcase the best of West Iceland and the remote Westfjords, allowing you to experience some of the country’s lesser-visited areas with fewer crowds. Spend a few days exploring the diverse landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula before taking a ferry to the remote Westfjords, home to some of the most dramatic scenery in all of Iceland. Hike along the jagged cliffs of Látrabjarg, visit the unique red-sand beach of Rauðasandur, and enjoy a picnic at the powerful Dynjandi Waterfall. Spend time in Ísafjörður and drive along the intricate eight-fjord system, stopping in charming small towns along the way.
### Recommended Itinerary for 8 Days: A Deeper Dive into the West Coast and Westfjords
This eight-day tour provides an even more immersive experience of Iceland’s west coast and the remote Westfjords region.
**Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Reykjavik**
Upon arrival in Iceland, transfer to Reykjavík and spend the day exploring the city’s highlights. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 2: North to Glymur Falls and Snæfellsnes Peninsula**
Drive north towards the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with an optional hike to Glymur Falls. Continue exploring the diverse landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 3: Ferry From Snæfellsnes Peninsula to the Westfjords**
Explore more of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula before taking the car ferry to the Westfjords. Overnight in Patreksfjörður.
**Day 4: Southern Westfjords: Látrabjarg & Dynjandi**
Discover the wonders of the southern Westfjords, including the Látrabjarg bird cliffs and the majestic Dynjandi Waterfall. Overnight in Ísafjörður.
**Day 5: Isafjordur or Hornstrandir Hiking**
Explore Ísafjörður or take a day trip to Hornstrandir Nature Reserve for hiking and wildlife spotting. Overnight in Ísafjörður.
**Day 6: Eastern Westfjords – Isafjordur to Holmavik**
Drive through the eastern Westfjords, enjoying the scenic landscapes and visiting charming villages. Overnight in Drangsnes.
**Day 7: Drive From Holmavik Back to Reykjavik**
Enjoy a scenic drive back to Reykjavík, stopping at viewpoints along the way. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 8: Visit the Reykjanes Peninsula & Depart From Reykjavík**
Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula before departing from Keflavík International Airport.
This eight-day tour allows you to experience the best sites along Iceland’s west coast and the remote Westfjords region. Starting in Reykjavík, you’ll drive to the volcanic Snæfellsnes Peninsula before taking a car ferry to some of the most dramatic landscapes in Iceland. Here you’ll hike along the jagged cliffs at Londrangar, visit black, gold, and red sand beaches, and see the powerful Dynjandi Waterfall. End the trip in Ísafjörður, a great base for activities in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, accessible only by boat and trail.
## Extended Itineraries: Venturing Further Afield
For those with more time, consider these extended itineraries that incorporate other regions of Iceland.
### 10-Day Itinerary Including Lake Mývatn & Akureyri: A Journey to the North
This 10-day driving itinerary is ideal for the summer months when the southern coast and Golden Circle can be crowded. Escape to the more remote areas of the country and experience some of the best that Iceland has to offer, with fewer crowds.
**Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Reykjavik**
Settle into Reykjavík and explore the city center.
**Day 2: Drive to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Hike in Glymur Falls, & Visit Borgarnes**
Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and enjoy a hike to Glymur Falls. Visit the town of Borgarnes. Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 3: More of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula**
Continue exploring the wonders of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 4: Ferry From Snæfellsnes Peninsula to the Westfjords**
Take the ferry to the Westfjords. Overnight in Patreksfjörður.
**Day 5: Southern Westfjords: Látrabjarg & Dynjandi**
Explore the southern Westfjords. Overnight in Ísafjörður.
**Day 6: Isafjordur or Hornstrandir Hiking**
Enjoy a day of hiking in Ísafjörður or Hornstrandir. Overnight in Ísafjörður.
**Day 7: Scenic Drive from Isafjordur to Akureyri**
Enjoy a scenic drive to Akureyri, the “Capital of the North.” Overnight in Akureyri.
**Day 8: The North: Godafoss, Whale Watching, and Big Waterfalls**
Explore the northern region, including Godafoss waterfall and opportunities for whale watching. Overnight in Lake Mývatn.
**Day 9: Geological Wonders of Lake Myvatn**
Discover the geological wonders of Lake Mývatn. Overnight in Lake Mývatn.
**Day 10: Return to Reykjavik**
Drive back to Reykjavík.
### 2-Week Itinerary Including Golden Circle, South Coast, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn & Akureyri: The Ring Road Adventure
With two weeks in Iceland, you can complete the entire Ring Road and add some fantastic detours, including the Westfjords.
**Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Reykjavik**
Explore Reykjavík.
**Day 2: North to Glymur Falls and Snaefellsnes Peninsula**
Drive north to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 3: Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Black-Sand Beaches & Fishing Towns**
Explore the black-sand beaches and fishing towns of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 4: Ferry From Snaefellsnes Peninsula to the Westfjords**
Take the ferry to the Westfjords.
**Day 5: Southern Westfjords: Látrabjarg & Dynjandi**
Explore the southern Westfjords.
**Day 6: Isafjordur or Hornstrandir Hiking**
Hike in Ísafjörður or Hornstrandir.
**Day 7: Scenic Drive from Isafjordur to Akureyri**
Drive to Akureyri.
**Day 8: The North: Godafoss, Whale Watching, and Big Waterfalls**
Explore the northern region.
**Day 9: Geological Wonders of Lake Myvatn**
Discover the geological wonders of Lake Mývatn.
**Day 10: Scenic Eastern Fjords**
Explore the scenic Eastern Fjords. Overnight in Seydisfjordur.
**Day 11: Seydisfjordur to Djúpivogur**
Continue along the Eastern Fjords to Djúpivogur. Overnight in Djupivogur.
**Day 12: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Skaftafell**
Visit the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, and explore Skaftafell Nature Reserve. Overnight in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
**Day 13: South Coast Waterfalls, Black Sand Beaches & the Start of the Golden Circle**
Explore the South Coast waterfalls and black sand beaches, and begin your journey along the Golden Circle. Overnight in the Golden Circle area.
**Day 14: Golden Circle and back to Reykjavik / KEF**
Complete the Golden Circle and return to Reykjavík or Keflavík for your departure.
### 15-Day Itinerary Including Golden Circle, South Coast, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn & Laugarbakki: A Complete Iceland Experience
This 15-day self-drive adventure takes you on a comprehensive journey around Iceland, hitting all the major highlights.
**Day 1: Arrival in Keflavík, Golden Circle, Horses and Hotsprings**
Begin your journey with the Golden Circle. Overnight in the Golden Circle area.
**Day 2: Langjokull Glacier Snowmobiling**
Enjoy snowmobiling on Langjokull Glacier. Overnight in the Golden Circle area.
**Day 3: South Coast waterfalls & black sand beaches, Solheimajokull Ice Climbing & Glacier hike**
Explore the South Coast. Overnight in Vík.
**Day 4: Explore Vik on your own**
Enjoy exploring Vik. Overnight in Vík.
**Day 5: Skaftafell Nature Reserve & Glacier Lagoons, Jokulsarlon Glacier Kayaking Adventure**
Visit Skaftafell Nature Reserve and the glacier lagoons. Overnight in Hofn.
**Day 6: The Eastfjords, The Geothermal Vok Baths**
Explore the Eastfjords. Overnight in Egilsstadir.
**Day 7: The wonders of Lake Myvatn, Myvatn Nature Baths**
Explore Lake Myvatn. Overnight in Lake Mývatn.
**Day 8: Dettifoss, Jokulsargljufur & Husavik, Husavik Whale Watching**
Visit Dettifoss and Jokulsargljufur, and go whale watching in Husavik. Overnight in Lake Mývatn.
**Day 9: North West Iceland, Akureyri & Godafoss, East Glacial River Whitewater Rafting**
Explore North West Iceland. Overnight in Laugarbakki.
**Day 10: Isafjordur Bay**
Explore Isafjordur Bay. Overnight in Ísafjörður.
**Day 11: Calm Water Kayaking, Dynjandi & the Northern Westfjords**
Enjoy kayaking and visit Dynjandi. Overnight in Patreksfjörður.
**Day 12: Latrabjarg, Raudasandur & the Southern Westfjords**
Explore the southern Westfjords. Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 13: The wonders of Snaefellsnes, Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour**
Explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
**Day 14: West Iceland & Borgarfjordur**
Explore West Iceland. Overnight in Reykjavík.
**Day 15: Reykjanes peninsula, Departure**
Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula before departing from Keflavík International Airport.
## How to travel between Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Westfjords
**How to get to the Westfjords**
The Westfjords region of Iceland, a remote area in the northwest, boasts stunning fjords, abundant wildlife, and untouched beauty. Self-driving is the most popular way to explore this removed area of Iceland, offering the flexibility to discover its hidden corners at your own pace. The freedom of having your own vehicle allows you to stop at scenic viewpoints, explore charming villages, and truly immerse yourself in the rugged landscapes.
**How to get to Snæfellsnes Peninsula**
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is easily accessible by car. While it’s possible to tour the entire area in a single day, it’s wise to allocate more time to fully explore its expansive beauty. With extra time, you can delve deeper into the region’s diverse landscapes, visit its charming towns, and partake in activities such as hiking, whale watching, and lava cave exploration. Allowing more than one day ensures you can appreciate the Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s unique character without feeling rushed.
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