This one-week Iceland road trip takes you on a loop from Reykjavík through geothermal valleys, glacier lagoons, black sand beaches, and quiet fjord towns. It’s a balanced itinerary covering highlights of south and east Iceland, mixing famous natural wonders with off-the-beaten-path spots. The pace is relaxed enough that you can experience a lot without feeling rushed, giving you plenty of time to soak in Iceland’s stunning scenery.
7-Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
Before you hit the road, make sure to check out this comprehensive 7-day Iceland itinerary filled with daily maps, stop suggestions, and practical tips to plan efficiently. It’s packed with local insights to help you make the most of your trip.
Day 1 – Explore Reykjavík: Art, History & Icelandic Eats
Touch down at Keflavík Airport and get ready to kick off your Iceland road trip in the colorful capital of Reykjavík. Just 45 minutes from the airport, this cozy, walkable city is a perfect place to settle in, stretch your legs, and get into the rhythm of local life.
Start by heading downtown, where quirky architecture and street murals bring a creative energy to nearly every block. Hallgrímskirkja, the famous hilltop church shaped like a volcanic column, offers a fantastic bird’s-eye view of the city from its tower. Just down the hill, take a stroll along the harbor to check out the Sun Voyager sculpture—shaped like a Viking ship, it’s one of the most photographed spots in town, especially with a sunset backdrop.
Photo by Einar H. Reynis on Unsplash
Reykjavík’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, is full of local design shops, secondhand bookstores, cafés, and even the occasional record store. It’s a great place to grab your first Icelandic coffee or browse for a wool sweater (you’ll thank yourself later when the wind picks up on the road).
Looking for a true local experience? Spend an hour at one of the city’s outdoor geothermal pools, like Laugardalslaug. It’s a daily ritual for many locals—even in winter—and a great way to relax after your flight. Or, if culture’s more your thing, check out the National Museum to dive into Iceland’s Viking past, or swing by the Harpa concert hall to admire its futuristic glass design.
Need a quick bite before hitting the road? Head to Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, Reykjavík’s legendary hot dog stand. It’s been around since the 1930s and is still one of the cheapest (and tastiest) local eats in town. Not a meat-eater? No problem—they’ve got vegan options too.
If you’re staying overnight, consider visiting the Árbær Open Air Museum or joining a walking food tour to explore Icelandic flavors like smoked lamb or fermented shark (yes, really). Reykjavík may be small, but it packs in plenty of culture, comfort, and character—ideal for setting the tone before heading into Iceland’s wild landscapes.
Day 2: Explore Iceland’s Golden Circle: Waterfalls, Geysers & Glacier Options
Now that you’ve settled into Iceland, it’s time to hit the road. Day 2 takes you through the Golden Circle, one of the most iconic and accessible routes in the country. It’s roughly 140 miles of winding roads and epic views, loaded with geothermal spots, waterfalls, and natural wonders that define what most people dream about when they picture Iceland.
First up is Þingvellir National Park, a place where both Icelandic history and raw geology take center stage. This is where Iceland’s parliament first met over a thousand years ago, and the landscape is just as dramatic as its backstory. You can walk between two tectonic plates here—yes, really—and follow trails through rugged cliffs and past icy streams. If you’re into landscapes that tell a story, this is the place.
Next, you’ll roll into the Geysir geothermal area, which looks like something out of another planet. While the original Geysir rarely erupts anymore, its neighbor Strokkur steals the show, shooting boiling water into the air every few minutes. Watch for the dome of blue water just before it explodes—it’s oddly hypnotic. The whole area bubbles, steams, and smells a little like sulfur, adding to the wild vibe.
Not far down the road is Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s biggest showstopper waterfalls. This massive two-tiered cascade drops into a deep canyon, and when the light hits it right, you might catch a rainbow floating in the mist. Several paths lead to different viewpoints, so take your time wandering around and feeling the ground rumble beneath your boots.
Photo by Robert Eklund on Unsplash
Got extra time? Swing by Kerið Crater, a volcanic bowl filled with a vivid teal-colored lake. The red rocks and green moss give it serious Martian vibes. It’s right off the main route and doesn’t take long to check out. There’s a small fee to enter, but the view is worth it, especially if the light hits just right.
By now, you’ve earned some downtime. Stop in Flúðir and soak at the Secret Lagoon, a natural hot spring surrounded by open fields and steaming earth. It’s a far more low-key experience than the tourist-packed Blue Lagoon, and it’s one of those places where time seems to slow down.
Feeling hungry or curious? Check out Friðheimar, a greenhouse restaurant where everything revolves around tomatoes—seriously. You’ll eat surrounded by vines while the smell of fresh basil fills the air. The tomato soup and fresh bread combo is a favorite, and it’s all grown right there, thanks to geothermal heating.
And if you’re up for a little adventure, some companies in the area offer snowmobiling tours on Langjökull Glacier. It’s not a casual drive—you’ll need to go with a guide—but if you’re craving a rush, this is one of the most unique ways to see Iceland’s icy backcountry.
For winter travelers, tonight could be your first shot at catching the Northern Lights. Once you’re away from the city lights, rural areas like Flúðir or Þingvellir give you a good chance, as long as the sky stays clear.
Day 3: Morning at the Lagoon, Then Off Toward the South
Kick off your day with something you won’t find just anywhere—a soak in Iceland’s most iconic hot spring. Just outside the town of Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon offers a dreamy mix of warm mineral-rich water and otherworldly views. The water stays around 100°F year-round and has that signature pale-blue color thanks to the natural silica content.
Photo by Daniel Schoibl on Unsplash
If you’re planning to visit, make sure to book your spot ahead of time—this place fills up fast, especially in peak season. Once inside, you can relax in the wide lagoon, try out the mud masks, and float past the steam rising off black volcanic rock. There’s even a bar right in the water, so you can sip while you soak. Just a tip: slather your hair with conditioner before getting in—your hair will thank you later.
Prefer something less touristy? Skip the spa scene and head over to Lake Kleifarvatn or the Krýsuvík geothermal area. The landscapes here are raw and wild—steaming ground, bubbling mud pools, and barely a soul around. If you’re into weird geology and fewer people, it’s a solid detour. For something quirky, swing by the Bridge Between Continents, a little footbridge over a rift that marks the divide between the Eurasian and North American plates. Is it cheesy? Kind of. Is it fun for a quick photo? Definitely.
After your geothermal fix, hit Route 1 (Iceland’s main highway) and begin the scenic drive south. The scenery shifts quickly, from mossy lava fields to open farmland with mountains in the distance. Keep an eye out for Icelandic horses along the way; they’re everywhere and surprisingly photogenic.
If you need a quick roadside stop, take a short turnoff to see Urriðafoss, one of Iceland’s lesser-known waterfalls. It’s wide, powerful, and rarely crowded—worth the quick detour if you’ve got time.
Your goal tonight is to make it near the small town of Hella or nearby Hvolsvöllur, which both make solid basecamps for tomorrow’s waterfall-packed day. These quiet towns have everything you’ll need for a night’s rest—guesthouses, gas, and maybe even a cozy spot for dinner.
As you drive, you might notice a glow from greenhouses lit up in the evening. South Iceland uses geothermal heat to grow produce year-round—some places even grow bananas! If you’re curious, some guesthouses will give you a tour of their homegrown setup. Just ask.
Day 4: Iceland’s Southern Coast – Falls, Glaciers & Windswept Beaches
Today’s route follows one of the most rewarding drives in Iceland: the southern stretch of Route 1. It’s a mix of wild coastal views, epic waterfalls, and landscapes that look like they were made for a movie set.
Start the day with a visit to Skógafoss, a wide, thundering waterfall you’ll likely hear before you even see it. The spray at the bottom is intense—bring a waterproof jacket if you want to get close. On a sunny day, you might even catch a rainbow (or two). There’s a long staircase beside the falls that takes you to the top, where you’ll get a sweeping view of the river before it plunges over the edge. If you’re up for it, the trail continues inland to more secluded waterfalls.
Just a short drive away is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall with a twist—you can actually walk behind it. When the path is clear (usually in summer), you can circle around the back and see the water falling in front of you like a curtain. It’s slippery, it’s misty, and it’s completely worth it. Not far off is Gljúfrabúi, a lesser-known fall tucked into a narrow canyon. You’ll have to wade a bit to reach it, but the view inside is incredible.
Photo by Robert Lukeman on Unsplash
From there, consider a stop at Sólheimajökull, a glacier tongue that’s easy to reach and popular for guided hikes. Even if you don’t gear up for a glacier walk, the short hike to the base gives you a close-up view of the jagged, crevassed ice, streaked with ash from past eruptions. It’s raw and powerful and makes you feel tiny in the best way.
Continue south to Dyrhólaey, a cliff-top viewpoint that juts into the ocean. If the road is open, the drive up is steep but leads to one of the best views in the country. From the lighthouse at the top, you can look out over endless black sand beaches and the sea stacks rising out of the Atlantic. If you’re there in summer, keep your eyes peeled for puffins—they nest on the grassy cliffs and are surprisingly fearless.
Just down the road is Reynisfjara, Iceland’s most photographed beach. The black volcanic sand and towering basalt columns make it look like something out of a fantasy film. Be careful, though—the waves here are no joke. Even on calm days, the water can surge up the beach without warning. Take your photos, explore the caves, but always keep an eye on the ocean.
By the end of the day, aim to arrive in Vík, a tiny town tucked under steep cliffs. There’s a red-roofed church on the hill, a few good spots to eat, and shops where you can grab local wool or handmade goods. If you’re curious about Iceland’s volcanic side, check out the Lava Show—they actually pour real molten lava in a room to simulate an eruption. It’s wild.
If you’re staying overnight in Vík, consider heading to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon first thing in the morning. It’s about an hour east of town and feels like something out of a fantasy novel—winding rivers, mossy cliffs, and quiet trails. (Just check ahead, as it’s occasionally closed for environmental protection.)
This stretch of the South Coast is one of the most unforgettable parts of the whole road trip. Be ready to stop often—there’s beauty around almost every curve.
Day 5: Glaciers, Ice Lagoons & Diamond Beach
Continuing east from Vík, the landscape transforms into vast glacial plains. You’ll drive across Mýrdalssandur, a desert-like black sand floodplain created by past volcanic eruptions and glacial bursts. Don’t let the seeming emptiness fool you – this area has seen dramatic events when volcanoes beneath ice caps erupt, sending torrents of meltwater and ash across the land.
As you pass the cliffs of Lomagnúpur (a monolithic mountain), you’ll enter the region of Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, which covers about 8% of Iceland’s landmass. Today’s highlights center around glaciers and the icy wonders they create:
Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park)
A popular nature area offering excellent hiking. Stop at the Skaftafell Visitor Center to get trail info and fill your water bottle. A highly recommended short hike (about 1.5 hours round-trip) leads to Svartifoss, a beautiful waterfall framed by black hexagonal basalt columns. Svartifoss inspired the design of Hallgrímskirkja church back in Reykjavík! The hike is moderately easy and takes you through birch woods and lava fields, with the unique reward of the dark lava-column backdrop at the falls.
Other longer hikes in Skaftafell can take you to glacier viewpoints if you have time. If you didn’t get a chance to walk on a glacier at Sólheimajökull, you’ll find guided glacier hikes leaving from Skaftafell as well – an opportunity to actually set foot on Vatnajökull itself. In winter (November–March), Skaftafell is a base for ice cave tours, where local guides lead you into sparkling blue glacial ice tunnels – an unforgettable experience if conditions allow.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
As you drive further, you’ll start noticing small icebergs stranded in rivers or on the land – a sign you’re nearing Jökulsárlón. Suddenly, a huge lagoon comes into view, filled with floating ice of all shapes and sizes drifting away from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier tongue. Jökulsárlón is one of Iceland’s most magical sights. Park at the lot and walk along the lagoon’s edge; you might see seals swimming among the ice chunks or lounging on top of them.
The icebergs range from ghostly white to brilliant blue, some striped with volcanic ash from ancient eruptions. In summer, you can take an amphibious boat tour or a Zodiac ride to get close to the icebergs and the glacier face (tours usually operate roughly May–Oct). Even from the shore, you’ll hear the crackle of ice and the gentle lapping of water – it’s mesmerizing and a little eerie in the best way. Take your time to marvel at this natural ice sculpture gallery created by Vatnajökull’s slow calving.
Diamond Beach
Just across the road from Jökulsárlón, where the lagoon’s outlet river meets the Atlantic, lies Breiðamerkursandur – better known as Diamond Beach. This stretch of black sand earns its nickname from the countless ice chunks that wash up on shore, glinting like gemstones on velvet. Pull into the parking area on either side of the bridge and wander the beach to see the “diamonds” up close.
Some ice pieces are as big as a car, others as small as your hand – all carved into fantastical shapes by the waves. They sparkle in the daylight, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light makes them glow golden-blue. It’s a photographer’s paradise (and a unique wedding photo spot, if you arrive to find couples in formal wear posing among the ice!). Take care not to wade too deep – the Atlantic here is very cold and the currents strong. Even just standing among the ice on the wet sand, watching the waves carry new bergs ashore, is a magical experience you’ll remember forever.
Höfn
After getting your fill of glaciers and ice, continue for about an hour to the town of Höfn, your stop for the night. Höfn is a fishing harbor town known as the lobster (langoustine) capital of Iceland, so treat yourself to a lobster dinner here if you’re a seafood fan. The town sits on a peninsula with lovely views of Vatnajökull looming across the bay. There’s a waterfront path to stretch your legs and a local folk museum if you’re interested.
Höfn is a great place to learn about life in rural Iceland; even though it’s small, it’s the largest town in the region. Stop by the Gamlabúð Visitor Center to learn about the area’s geology and wildlife (you might spot reindeer in the surrounding fields – wild reindeer herds roam East Iceland). From Höfn, on a clear day, you can see the massive white expanse of Vatnajökull in the distance and realize just how vast that glacier is. (Fun fact: Vatnajökull isn’t just ice – it hides several active volcanoes under its surface, including Grímsvötn and Bárðarbunga, which have both erupted in the 21st century.)
Day 6: Quiet Beauty of the East Fjords
Say goodbye to the crowded south – today you venture into Iceland’s East Fjords, a less-touristed region known for its tranquil fjords, fishing villages, and dramatic mountain roads. The drive itself is a highlight as Route 1 winds in and out of fjords, with the North Atlantic on one side and towering cliffs on the other. Don’t expect long stretches of highway here; the road follows the natural curvature of the coastline, which means breathtaking views at every turn and plenty of safe pull-outs to stop for photos.
One of the first villages you’ll encounter is Djúpivogur, a quaint harbor town with a slow pace of life. It’s a great coffee break spot – try the local café in the small downtown and take a stroll along the harbor. Djúpivogur is known for an outdoor sculpture installation called Eggin í Gleðivík – 34 oversized granite eggs representing different bird species of the region, lined up along the shore. It’s quirky and makes for fun photos (see if you can spot the big ostrich egg among the local bird eggs!). This village is also part of the Cittaslow movement, which emphasizes quality of life and slow living.
Continuing north, you’ll pass countless cascading waterfalls along the roadsides – some just thin ribbons on mountain faces, others gushing under little bridges. The Eastfjords area has many small settlements worth a short detour if time allows. For instance, Breiðdalsvík is a tiny hamlet where you might find a handicraft shop or an art gallery showcasing local artists. Stöðvarfjörður is home to the Petra Stone Museum, an eccentric private collection of Icelandic stones and minerals gathered by one woman over her lifetime – it’s like a garden full of glittering rocks.
Driving these fjords, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife: seals sometimes pop up near the shore, and in winter, you might even spot wild reindeer grazing (East Iceland is the only place in the country with wild reindeer herds, introduced in the 18th century).
Your destination for the day is Seyðisfjörður, often considered one of Iceland’s most charming towns. To reach it, you’ll drive over a mountain pass from Egilsstaðir (the largest town in the east). The road climbs and then descends in dramatic switchbacks with stunning views of Seyðisfjörður’s fjord as you approach – take it slow and enjoy the scenery.
Seyðisfjörður itself is a postcard-perfect village with colorful wooden houses, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and cascading waterfalls. Park the car and wander around: there’s an artsy vibe here, with little galleries, handicraft boutiques, and a famous rainbow-painted street leading up to the blue church in the center of town. This town is also the port for the international ferry from Europe, so in summer it sees an influx of backpackers arriving by ship, giving it a pleasantly cosmopolitan feel despite its small size.
While in Seyðisfjörður, you can take a short hike to Gufufoss, a pretty waterfall just outside of town (if you didn’t get enough waterfalls yet!). Or simply relax by the harbor and watch the fishing boats – the peace and quiet of this fjord town is the perfect antidote to the busier tourist hubs. In the evening, enjoy some fresh fish at a local bistro or a beer at the friendly local bar.
If you’re visiting in summer, the sun will linger late into the evening over the fjord, and if it’s winter, you might get lucky with another northern lights display dancing above the mountains. East Iceland’s magic is more subdued, but it’s in the pristine nature and slower pace that you really feel the heart of the country.
Day 7: Geothermal Hike & Return to Reykjavík
It’s your final day on the road. Leave Seyðisfjörður in the morning and begin the journey back west. If you haven’t done so already, you’ll pass through Egilsstaðir, where you can top off your tank and grab snacks – from here, Route 1 cuts across the interior highlands (via gravelly Möðrudalsöræfi desert) or you might have taken the coastal route earlier.
Either way, most travelers loop back through South Iceland to return to Reykjavík. Since you’ve already seen the main south coast sights, you can make quicker progress on the drive, but there’s one last nature stop that’s well worth doing if time permits and weather cooperates.
About 40 minutes east of Reykjavík (near the town of Hveragerði) lies Reykjadalur, meaning “Steam Valley.” This geothermal valley is famous for its hot spring river, where you can bathe in naturally warm water out in the open landscape. To reach it, you’ll hike about 3 km (1.8 mi) one way (roughly 45–60 minutes) on a well-marked trail. The hike is moderately uphill at first, passing steaming vents and mud pools along the hillsides. You might even see sheep grazing among the steam – a quintessential Icelandic sight.
As you approach the river, you’ll notice wooden boardwalks and simple platforms for changing – yes, this is the “thermal river spa”! Find a spot to drop your towel and step into the creek; move upstream or downstream to find your perfect temperature (hotter near where the thermal water emerges, cooler further down). Then lean back and revel in the fact that you’re essentially in a natural hot tub in the middle of a valley.
It’s an incredibly relaxing way to cap off your trip. Reykjadalur can be enjoyed year-round (the warm water feels especially great on a chilly day, or even with snow around), just be cautious of staying on the paths because the ground is very hot in spots. After your soak, hike back down feeling refreshed and ready for the journey home.
As you drive the final leg back into Reykjavík, you might consider one more quick visit: just off the highway in Hellisheiði is a geothermal power plant with an interesting exhibition (Hellisheiði Power Plant Visitor Center). It showcases how Iceland taps geothermal energy to produce electricity and hot water – a neat stop for science buffs or anyone curious about sustainable energy. It’s optional, but a nice way to see how those steaming landscapes are harnessed for clean power.
Arriving back in Reykjavík by late afternoon or early evening, you’ll have time for a last stroll around the city. Maybe you missed something at the beginning of the trip that you can squeeze in now – the Perlan Museum (with its revolving glass dome and observation deck) is great for a panoramic view over the city and learning about Iceland’s natural wonders through its exhibits.
You can also head down to the Old Harbor area for souvenirs and a bowl of seafood soup to warm up. If you’re flying out late tonight, be sure to head to Keflavík Airport with enough time (aim to be there 2–3 hours before departure to return your car and go through security). For those with a next-day flight, enjoy Reykjavík’s nightlife on your final evening – the city may be small, but it knows how to have fun.
To cap off your Iceland road trip, one peaceful option (if it’s not too late) is to drive or walk to Grótta Lighthouse at the northwest tip of Reykjavík. Locals often go there in the evenings to watch the sunset or even catch the northern lights on the horizon in winter. It’s a serene coastal spot to reflect on the journey you’ve just completed across the Land of Fire and Ice.
Final Notes and Tips
This 7-day Iceland road trip itinerary offers a mix of Iceland’s most iconic attractions and some hidden gems in Iceland, all reachable with a standard vehicle. With a rental car, you have the freedom to adjust stops based on weather and interests, and in Iceland, flexibility is key because the weather can change quickly. Below are a few extra tips to keep in mind as you plan:
Winter Travel: If you’re visiting in winter (roughly November–March), expect very short daylight hours (as little as 5 hours in December) and potentially snow-covered or icy roads. Always check the weather and road conditions each morning on sites like Road.is and Vedur.is. 4×4 vehicles are recommended in deep winter. Pack crampons/ice cleats for walking on icy paths (they’re cheap and can save you from slips, especially at sights like waterfalls). The upside of winter: fewer crowds and a chance to see the northern lights dancing in the night sky!
Summer Travel: Summer (June–August) brings nearly 24 hours of daylight – the famous Midnight Sun. This means you can be super flexible with your schedule (daylight at 11 pm? No problem!). It’s a fantastic time for camping and adding side hikes since you won’t be racing the sunset. Just book accommodations well in advance, as it’s the busiest season. Also, pack a sleep mask – those bright nights can mess with your sleep.
Spring & Fall: The shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) can be rewarding with fewer tourists and still decent daylight. But these months are known for rapidly changing conditions – you might get sun, rain, wind, and even a bit of snow all in one day. Dress in layers and always have your waterproof jacket handy. Some highland roads or attractions (like ice caves or certain hikes) may be closed in early spring or late fall due to lingering snow. On the plus side, autumn brings beautiful colors to the moss and shrubs, and spring brings wildflowers and baby lambs all over the countryside.
Extending Your Trip: If you have more than a week in Iceland, you’re in for a treat. Consider adding the Snæfellsnes Peninsula (often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes, including the photogenic Kirkjufell mountain) or venturing to the Westfjords, a remote region of sheer cliffs, deep fjords, and very few people. These areas offer even more dramatic scenery and chances to encounter wildlife like Arctic foxes or puffin colonies. Another popular extension is driving the Ring Road completely (typically 10–14 days) to include North Iceland’s wonders like Mývatn geothermal area and Akureyri town.
Support Local & Stay Safe: Icelanders are proud of their local businesses, so don’t hesitate to stop at that cute family-run farm guesthouse or village bakery – your visit supports the community, and you’ll often get a more personal experience. When driving in remote areas, keep your gas tank topped up (stations can be far apart in the east or north). And as always in Iceland, respect the powerful nature: follow posted signs, don’t get too close to cliff edges or sneaker-wave-prone beaches, and never venture onto glaciers or into ice caves without a certified guide. Travel insurance is highly recommended for peace of mind.
By the end of this journey, you’ll have explored volcanic landscapes, walked behind waterfalls, soaked in hot springs, watched icebergs drift by, and taken in quiet fjord views. Each day in Iceland brings a highlight of its own — and chances are, you’ll find yourself wanting to return to this one-of-a-kind island again someday. For more in-depth travel guides, itineraries, and tips for visiting Iceland (and beyond), feel free to visit our travel site’s resources – we love sharing advice to make every trip special. Enjoy your Iceland road trip adventure, and takk fyrir (thank you) for reading!
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