SUGGESTED ITINERARY
WHAT, WHERE & WHEN
Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation in Reyjavik
After landing in Iceland, you'll pick up your rental car at the airport, ready to begin your adventure. To ease into the trip, head to either the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon, both offering rejuvenating geothermal waters and stunning surroundings—perfect for shaking off any travel fatigue.
Following your soak, drive into Reykjavik, where you'll spend the evening exploring the city’s vibrant streets, enjoying local cuisine, and getting a feel for Icelandic culture. Rest up, as tomorrow starts your journey around the island.
Day 2: Waterfalls & Wonders: The Golden Circle to the Black Sands
After breakfast, you'll set off towards the iconic Golden Circle, with stops at Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. After experiencing these landmarks, continue your drive along the scenic south coast.
In the afternoon, you'll visit the stunning waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss before heading to the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara. Take in the epic unique basalt columns and watch out for those powerful waves before continuing to your overnight stay at Hotel Katla. Relax and enjoy the evening in this cosy accommodation, nestled close to the dramatic landscapes you've explored.
Day 3: Glacial Wonders & Coastal Beauty
After breakfast, set out on a scenic 2.5-hour drive towards the striking Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Spend the morning admiring the glittering icebergs on the black sand beach and exploring the lagoon, where optional boat tours offer a closer look at the floating ice formations.
In the afternoon, continue your journey to the tranquil village of Höfn, known for its stunning coastal views and delicious langoustine. Settle in for the night, enjoying a relaxed evening in this picturesque seaside town.
Day 4: Fjords to Geothermal Landscapes
After breakfast, embark on an epic drive through the serene landscapes of East Iceland. Your first major stop is the picturesque village of Seyðisfjörður, nestled within a stunning fjord. Take some time to explore its colourful houses and scenic surroundings before enjoying a leisurely lunch in one of the local cafes.
In the afternoon, continue your journey northward towards the geothermal landscapes of Lake Mývatn. Arrive in the early evening, where you can relax and take in the unique volcanic features and steaming geothermal areas that define this otherworldly region.
Day 5: Nature Baths and Powerful Waterfalls
Begin your day with a rejuvenating soak at the Mývatn Nature Baths. The mineral-rich waters offer a perfect start, surrounded by scenic views of the volcanic landscape. After relaxing, drive to the nearby Hverir geothermal area. This otherworldly spot features bubbling mud pots, steam vents, and colourful mineral deposits, making for a fascinating and photogenic experience.
Next, head to the Krafla volcanic area. Here, you can explore expansive lava fields and hike around the Krafla caldera for breathtaking vistas. After a morning of adventure, stop in Reykjahlíð village for a leisurely lunch at a local café or restaurant.
In the afternoon, make your way to Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. The drive to Dettifoss offers spectacular landscapes, and the sheer power of the falls is truly awe-inspiring. If time allows, visit Selfoss, a nearby waterfall that adds to the scenic beauty of the area.
Day 6: From Whale Watching to Nordic Noir
On this day, you'll begin by leaving Mývatn and heading west towards Húsavík, a town celebrated for its whale-watching tours. Húsavík, which gained fame from Netflix’s Eurovision film, provides a great opportunity to see whales in their natural habitat. You can either join a whale-watching tour or explore the town's film-related sites and museums.
Afterward, continue your drive to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city. In Akureyri, you can enjoy the local culture, visit cosy cafés, and take in the scenic surroundings. If you haven’t had a chance to go whale watching yet, you can consider taking a tour here or simply explore the city’s attractions.
In the afternoon, embark on a drive to Siglufjörður, which takes you off Route 1 and offers impressive views of northern Iceland. Once you arrive in Siglufjörður, check into the Siglo Hotel, a location featured in the Nordic Noir series Trapped. Spend the evening relaxing at the hotel or enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, preparing for your journey back south the following day.
Day 7: Say Farewell to the Fjords
Today, you'll bid farewell to the stunning fjords of Siglufjörður and begin your journey south. Your first stop will be at Hvammstangi, a notable spot known for its picturesque landscapes and unique charm. After taking in the sights at Hvammstangi, continue your drive to Hotel Húsafell, where you'll spend your final night.
Upon arrival at Hotel Húsafell, take the opportunity to unwind and reflect on your epic week of travel. Enjoy the serene surroundings of the hotel, relax in its amenities, and savor the final moments of your Icelandic adventure.
Your final evening will be spent in the cool, quirky, and cutting-edge capital, Reykjavik. The city will captivate you with an enticing combination of jaw-dropping nature on its doorstep and cosmopolitan delights.
Day 8: The End of the Journey.... or Is It?
On your final day in Iceland, you can choose how to spend your time based on your flight schedule. If you have a leisurely morning, consider relaxing at the Krauma Spa, where you can unwind in the natural hot springs and enjoy the peaceful environment. Alternatively, if you're up for an adventure, you might head out to explore a glacier, taking in the breath taking ice formations and unique landscapes.
Should you wish to extend your stay, Iceland has even more to offer, with plenty of additional sights and experiences to discover. Regardless, in the early afternoon, make your way to Keflavík, which is about a 2-hour drive from Hotel Húsafell. This timing will depend on your flight, ensuring you have ample time to reach the airport for your departure.
