This site may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank for your supporting Casper’s Journey !
Ultimate Iceland Road Trip
Get ready for an incredible adventure with this awesome 7-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary! Covering approximately 1,400 kilometers and promising 19 hours of driving adventure, this journey is packed with breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences. Let the fun begin! 🚗
Car Rental Iceland
First thing first, you may have heard some horror stories about renting a car in Iceland—whether it’s price, insurance, or horrible customer service. But with a bit of planning, you can have a hassle-free car rental experience in Iceland. Here are some tips;
- Book in advance. Iceland is a popular destination especially during the summer as well as the shoulder months May and September. As the price simply goes with the flow, it’s always cheaper to book well in advance.
- Take full insurance. Even if you don’t normally take full insurance or just use your credit card that comes with auto insurance, it’s advisable to take full insurance and liability waiver. I also recommend additional coverage, such as gravel protection and sand and ash protections, which are not normally included in your home country insurance.
- Check the car before driving away. This is probably a standard procedure for renting a car, but it’s especially important when renting a car in Iceland. Take photos or videos of any damages and make sure the rental agent takes a note.
- Always know where the next gas station is. As you drive away from Reykjavik, civilization starts to fade away. So make sure to always fill the tank. Also pack your car snacks.
I used Blue Car Rental for my trip. After our flight landed at 6 in the morning, we walked up to their office near Keflavik airport. (I think there was a shuttle service, but it’s only a few minutes walk). The check-in was smooth and the agent gave me some advice on driving in Iceland. Then, we checked the car together and we’re off. Easy. It came out about US$100 a day including all the insurance coverage. We had Suzuki Vitara, Mid-sized SUV. Nice and clean, big enough for 4 adults and a child. We loved it! ❤️
Ring Road Itinerary Day by Day Summary
- Day 1: Reykjavik – Thingvellir National Park – Gullfoss Waterfall – Secret Lagoon in Fludir
- Day 2: Fludir – Seljalandsfoss – Skógafoss – Reynisfjara – Vik
- Day 3: Vik – Skaftafell – Jökulsárlón – Höfn
- Day 4: Höfn – Seyðisfjörður
- Day 5: Seyðisfjörður – Krafla – Mývatn
- Day 6: Mývatn – Godafoss – Akureyri
- Day 7: Akureyri – Reykjavik
Most people take 7-10 days to do Ring Road Itinerary, but this can easily be extended to beyond 10 days. I wouldn’t recommend completing the circle in anything less than 7 days as you miss out so much, and to fully enjoy Iceland, you need to take time and get close to the nature. If you’re planning to go in the winter, you may also want to allow yourself plenty of time as the road conditions will be tough.
Day 1: Reykjavik – Thingvellir National Park – Gullfoss Waterfall – Secret Lagoon in Fludir
Grab your car and some snacks, then head northeast to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO site where Iceland’s Parliament (Alþingi) started in 930 AD. It’s in a stunning rift valley formed by tectonic plates. If you’re up for it, dive in and soak in the magic of Silfra fissure between the North American and Eurasian continents.🤿
Continue your journey east for 40 minutes to check out some hot spring geysir before meeting the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfalls (Golden waterfalls). At Geysir, there are several restaurants and souvenir shops. A two-tiered cascade plunging into a deep gorge, Gullfoss Waterfalls are one of Iceland’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls. 
End your day by soaking in the oldest natural pool in Iceland, Gamla Laugin (also known as the Secret Lagoon♨️) This is my personal favourite hot spring in Iceland. It’s smaller and closer to nature compared to other springs, which makes it so peaceful and rejuvenating. Highly recommended.
Accomodation: There are a few options around Gullfoss and Fludir. I recommend Hotel Fludir, conveniently located just 1.4km from the Secret Lagoon. Across the street, you’ll find a grocery store. The hotel also features outdoor hot tubs, where we were fortunate to witness the Northern Lights on our first night!
Driving: 190km, 2.5h
Day 2: Fludir – Seljalandsfoss – Skógafoss – Reynisfjara – Vik
Turn the car radio on and continue your Iceland Ring Road Itinerary east as we chase some waterfalls today. My recommended tune of the day is Sigur Rós and Of Monsters and Men as you drive through breathtaking lava fields and moss-covered plateaus.
After about an hour’s drive from Fludir, you’ll see Seljalandsfoss on your left—a mesmerizing sight where cascading water meets rugged cliffs, boasting a dramatic drop of 60 meters. You can walk behind the waterfalls with relatively easy access. A raincoat and good walking boots are recommended. There are a few smaller waterfalls nearby if time allows.
The next stop is at Skógafoss, another majestic waterfalls. Surrounded by lush greenery, it creates constant mist, often forming rainbows. You can experience it up close or climb stairs for a panoramic view. Legends speak of a hidden treasure behind the falls, adding a touch of mystery to this iconic Icelandic landmark. Check out the music video below where Greta Salóme performing in front of Skógafoss.
Before ending your day in the village of Vik, you can stop at Sólheimajökull where you can walk on to the glacier. But if you want to go further, you’ll need to get a guide and proper equipment.
Accomodation: There are a few hotels and restaurants along Route 1 near the beach in Vik. We stayed at Hotel Vík í Mýrdal, a few minutes walk to the black sand beach. The sounds of waves crashing on the shore will ensure you get a good night’s sleep.”. 💤
Driving: 150km, 2h
Day 3: Vik – Skaftafell – Jökulsárlón – Höfn
Put your hiking boots on because you’ll get really close to glaciers today. Continue your journey on Route 1 for about 1.5h, look out for a sign for Skaftafell. In just a short drive, you’ll reach the visitor center, where you can find information about the area and pick up hiking maps. Various hiking trails await, ranging from easy hour-long paths to more challenging full-day adventures.
Skaftafell Glacier is like nature’s frozen playground in the heart of Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park. Take your time and enjoy. This is the Iceland you dreamed of! The nearby tour operator offers guided ice cave tours and helicopter tours if you’re feeling adventurous. 
Back to the Ring Road on Route 1, after crossing a small bridge, turn left again onto a gravel road for an even more spectacular view of Svínafellsjökull Glacier. It offers a visual feast with its serene blue hues and rugged surroundings, providing a truly unforgettable experience.
The next stop is Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon where large icebergs from the surrounding Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier break off and float in the lagoon. Enjoy the juxtaposition of sparkling blue ice against black sand beaches. If you’re lucky you’ll see seals lounging on the floating ice! 🦭 There are a few tour companies there offering boat tours.
From here, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Höfn, where lobsters and other seafood are renowned. 🦞 Many restaurants and bars are found near the marina.
Accomodation: We stayed at Fosshotel Vatnajökull, which is about 10 km outside Höfn, for a better view and to be closer to nature. But there are many hotels in town. The view from the hotel 👇❤️
Driving: 260km, 3h
Day 4: Höfn – Seyðisfjörður
The drive from Höfn to Seyðisfjörður is a scenic adventure through Iceland’s stunning landscapes. As you travel north east, you’ll be treated to small coastal villages and the enchanting East Fjords. The road winds through moss-covered lava fields, revealing stunning fjords and glimpses of the North Atlantic. We’re lucky enough to see herds of wild reindeer along the way.
It took us about 4 hours to get to Seyðisfjörður. While you could certainly zip through faster, the road has its delightful twists and turns, with plenty of charming spots to pull over and soak in the incredible scenery. Take your time and enjoy the journey!
Seyðisfjörður is a vibrant town framed by majestic fjords. Its colorful wooden buildings create a cheerful atmosphere, not just another picturesque stop on Iceland Ring Road Itinerary. After a walk around the town and the famous “Blue Church”, venture to the Tvísöngur sound sculpture. The bonus? Stunning views of the city and the fjord below!
Accomodation: I strongly recommend Hotel Aldan. They have three different buildings, each offering rooms and facilities with variations. We stayed at “Old Bank”, originally built in 1898. Very charming.
Driving: 270km, 4h
Day 5: Seyðisfjörður – Krafla – Mývatn
As you continue your Iceland Ring Road Itinerary westward, the scenery evolves, leading you through coastal stretches, rolling hills, and eventually into more volcanic terrain. The final leg of the journey unveils the unique landscapes around Krafla with its geothermal features, lava fields, and the intriguing Krafla Caldera. Unfortunately when we visited in April, due to the heavy snow, the road to the power station and the caldera was closed. 🌨️😢
But we visited Myvatn Geothermal Area where we saw boiling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and colorful mineral deposits. It’s fascinating to watch and you can really feel the earth is alive. 
The trip to Myvatn is not complete without visiting Myvatn Nature Bath known for its mineral-rich and soothing waters. Set against stunning volcanic landscapes, it’s like a warm hug from nature. 🌎🤗
Accomodation: Vogafjós farm resort is the place to stay in Mývatn. While the rooms are pretty straightforward, the farm vibes and the restaurant totally steal the show. You can enjoy your breakfast as you observe the cows being milked. Fresh milk and yogurt. 🐄🥛 The best meal I’ve had in Iceland. 👇
By the way, we saw the best northern lights here. The northern lights are nature’s dazzling light show in the sky! Vibrant colors twirling above like a cosmic dance. It’s like a surprise performance. It’s a magical, unpredictable show that turns the night sky into a canvas of memories.
Driving: 200km, 3h
Day 6: Mývatn – Godafoss – Akureyri
Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” is only about 1h drive from Mývatn. Upon reaching Goðafoss, you’ll be captivated by its horseshoe shape and powerful cascade. It’s not just a drive; it’s a scenic adventure to one of Iceland’s natural wonders. 
At Akureyri, you can easily spend a few days. If you’ve got just a limited time to spare, I’d say head straight to the Akureyri Botanical Garden! Nestled in Akureyri’s northern embrace, this garden is like a colorful haven for plant lovers. You’ll find all sorts of tough-as-nails plants that call this northern spot home.
The iconic Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja) is only within 10 minutes walk from the garden. Its design and panoramic views make it a must-visit spot, offering a unique perspective of the town and surrounding landscapes. With its cool design and panoramic views, it gives you the coolest perspective of the town and all the stunning landscapes around. Right across from the church, you’ll find the Akureyri Art Museum in a convenient spot!
Accomodation: The city center is brimming with hotels and apartments, but we opted for the cozy vibes of Sæluhús Akureyri, just a 20-minute stroll away from all the action. Many rooms come with a kitchen, washing machine, and an outside hot tub. 🛁🌠 I recommend it.
Driving: 100km, 1.5h
Day 7: Akureyri – Reykjavik
On the last day of our Iceland Ring Road Itinerary, we’ll be heading all the way back to Reykjavik, covering almost 400km in about 4.5 hours. It’s going to be a long drive, but as you’ve noticed, driving the Ring Road is never boring, and this route also offers incredible scenery.
Some suggested stops are;
- The Icelandic Seal Center in Hvammstangi (a short detour from Ring Road) – an educational institution and visitor center dedicated to the seals of the region.
- The Westfjords (a long detour and ideally need additional day or two) – a remote peninsula in northwestern Iceland, boast stunning fjords, birdwatching cliffs, and the iconic Dynjandi Waterfall. If you’d like to see puffins, head to the tip of the peninsula, Látrabjarg cliffs.
- Snæfellsjökull National Park (a long detour and ideally need additional day or two) – Picture an iconic glacier-capped volcano, diverse landscapes with lava fields and cliffs, and charming coastal villages like Arnarstapi and Hellnar.
I’d suggest, you head all the way to the world-famous The Blue Lagoon, nestled in a lava field in Grindavík, a mesmerizing geothermal spa. 🌋♨️ Its milky-blue waters, heated by underground volcanic activity, offer a relaxing and healing experience. Visitors enjoy unique spa facilities, silica mud masks, and spectacular views of the surrounding lava fields. It’s an iconic destination for both locals and tourists seeking a blissful escape in Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
As you can imagine, it gets very busy, especially on weekends, so it’s essential to pre-book. It is also expensive. Love it or hate it, I’d recommend you check it out. I personally prefer smaller and pristine hot springs in other parts of Iceland, but you decide yourself. But it’s a perfect place to end your 7 day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary.
Accomodation: My recommendation is Kvosin downtown Hotel which is located front of Tjörnin Lake and close to many tourists attractions such as The National Gallery and Rainbow Street.
Driving: 380km, 4.5h
Finally, Reykjavik
I have not included Reykjavik in this Iceland Ring Road Itinerary, as it needs a few days to explore the city. It’s a perfect place to Plan the Trip or relax after the long drive. It’s a modern and vibrant city with striking architecture, a rich cultural scene with picturesque views.
I will write a separate post just for Reykjavik. But for now, some of the known landmarks are; Hallgrímskirkja – the largest church in Iceland, a striking landmark in Reykjavik. Its distinctive design, inspired by basalt columns, includes a towering 74.5-meter-high tower with panoramic views. You cannot miss it. Harpa Concert Hall – situated along the waterfront, it is a contemporary architectural marvel with a glass façade resembling crystallized basalt columns. With picturesque views of the harbor and mountains, Harpa stands as an iconic landmark and a vibrant center for arts and culture in Reykjavik. Tjörnin Lake – A picturesque pond in the heart of the city, surrounded by green spaces and often frequented by ducks and swans. Old Harbor – if you want to avoid touristy streets, head down to the Old Harbor. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and cool shops.
Hope you find this Iceland Ring Road Itinerary suggestions useful. Of course you should customize it to your liking. “And no two journeys along the same path are alike.” – Paulo Coelho. If you have any questions/comments, let me know in the comment or feel free to contact me. Enjoy !