Introduction
Iceland is home to some of the world’s most diverse and dramatic landscapes—towering glaciers, thundering waterfalls, black sand beaches, steaming geothermal fields, and, if you’re visiting at the right time, the magical Northern Lights. It’s no surprise this island nation has become one of the most sought-after destinations for adventure travelers.
Planning a 7 Day Iceland Road Trip?
This complete Golden Circle and South Coast itinerary covers every must-see stop, including Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Haifoss, Fjallabak Nature Reserve, Svartifoss, Vatnajökull Glacier, Diamond Beach, Vik, Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Vestmannaeyjabær Island, and the Blue Lagoon. Whether you’re self-driving a standard rental car or taking on Iceland’s rugged F-roads in a 4×4, this guide will help you plan the perfect week in Iceland.
This Ultimate 7 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary is designed to give you breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable adventures, and everything you need to know—from road conditions and packing lists to top hikes, restaurants, and hotels.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Table of Contents
- Preparing for your Visit
- Must see attractions that require a reservation
- Day 1 – Reykjavik → Thingvellir → Geysir → Gullfoss (Golden Circle Start)
- Day 2- Golden Circle Highlands — Haifoss & Fjallabak Nature Reserve
- Day 3 – Iceland South Coast — Svartifoss, Vatnajökull & Diamond Beach
- Day 4 – Exploring Ice Caves, Vik, Black Sands Beach, Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss
- Day 5 – Vestmannaeyjabær Island: Puffins, Volcanoes & Beluga Sanctuary
- Day 6 – Relaxing at Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
- Overall
Preparing for your visit
Best time to visit Iceland
The best time to visit Iceland can be a tough question. Each time of year gives you something a bit different that you can experience. But, if you want to visit a bunch of Iceland and still get to see the Northern Lights, September to early October is the best time to visit.
During this time, the days are getting shorter which leaves more time at night for you to get to see the northern lights. From May to July, Iceland can experience very little nighttime which greatly affects any chances of viewing the northern lights.
The other reason to visit this time of year is most of the F-roads are still passable. The F-roads are dirt and gravel roads that run through the back country of Iceland. These roads are the main way to pass through the Golden Circle. During the colder parts of the year, which lasts from mid October to June, the F-roads are closed.
Staying Safe in Iceland
Aside from its beautiful landscapes and untouched nature, Iceland is also one of the safest countries on the planet. For the last 14 years, Iceland has been ranked as the safest country in the world. You should feel comfortable walking around the major cities or visiting landmarks throughout the country.
Road Trip musts for visiting Iceland
While road tripping Iceland, it’s important to come prepared due to many factors. In this guide we will give you all the tips to make sure your road trip is the time of your life!
Weather
The weather can play a big part in traveling throughout Iceland. Weather can change rapidly and it’s important to be flexible. Keep a close eye on weather apps for daily changes and be prepared to modify plans if inclement weather rolls in.
Road Conditions
Like we talked about above, one of the main roads you will drive on for your road trip is F-roads (or mountain roads). These F-roads are gravel and dirt roads that can travel for miles and are rough to traverse.
It’s important to pay attention to signs since some F-Roads are only built for all terrain vehicles with specific suspension designs (you will see these big vehicles with air hoses attached to them).
To be able to drive on the F-Roads, you will need to rent the appropriate car that is approved.
We recommend whatever car you rent to purchase the rental car company insurance. These insurances make sure you are covered in case of a popped tire (which happens frequently), or other issue driving throughout Iceland.
The cost to call the rental company for service without the insurance can be several hundred dollars.
Road conditions can also change based on weather. It’s important to pay close attention while you’re driving to any signage. During the summer months this isn’t really an issue, but still best to operate with caution.
Crossing Rivers
In addition to road conditions, while driving through the Golden Circle, you will need to drive through multiple rivers on your way from the west to the east.
SUVs that are rented for F-roads are built to drive through these rivers, but its important to read signage as you approach the rivers and never follow tire tracks. River conditions can change daily so cross with caution.
Gas Stations
Gas stations in the back country of Iceland are few and far between. Make sure to keep an eye on your gas gauge and fill up your tank if you are close to a quarter of a tank left. Nothing is worse then getting stuck if you run out of gas!
Cell Phone Reception
In the towns and cities of Iceland, cell reception is overall pretty good. However, in the back country of Iceland, cell reception can be sparse. We rented a mobile hotspot for our car and overall we had wifi connection in most of Iceland!
Parking
Don’t make this mistake…remember to pay for parking in Iceland! This is heavily enforced and if you forget to pay, there are cameras ready to charge you upon exiting the area. These fees can be upwards of $30 when parking is only $2.
What to Pack
Road tripping Iceland means exposure to varying weather and conditions across the country. Based on our experience, these are the musts for packing for a trip to the beautiful country!
Hiking boots – A good pair of hiking boots can be the difference between a fun hike or a miserable one. Make sure the boots are waterproof and comfortable.
Rain Jacket – Rain can pop up without warning as weather can change fast. Make sure you’re prepared!
Warm Jacket and clothing – Even in the summer, it can be chilly in Iceland. July and August are the warmest months and the average temperature is normally around 60F/14C.
Water – Having a good water bottle is ideal for a road trip. You can go for miles (or kilometers) without anywhere to fill up. But, if you stop at a glacier, you have the opportunity to fill up with the purest water around!
Bathing Suit – If you get the chance, make sure to find a hot spring to jump into and enjoy the relaxing, warm water!
Hiking Poles – This is more of a preference than a necessity. But, hiking polls definitely make the descent a little easier on the knees and help with balance. They also act as a great way to make sounds if hiking in bear country.
Camera – Exploring Iceland is truly a special experience. Don’t forget your camera to capture some of the most iconic photos you will ever have!
Must see attractions that Require a Reservation
If you are planning on doing any excursions on your trip around the country side, here are the ones we recommend that require a reservation!
Ice Cave Tours
This is a must when visiting Iceland! The tour includes a guide that will drive you and several others out to an active glacier. They provide all the gear needed to explore the glacier, which includes helmets and crampons.
As you walk through the cave, you will be mesmorized with the deep blue color and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The price of this excursion is usually around $200 a person, but it is well worth it! How many other times can you say you explored a Glacier!
We used Southcoast Adventures for our tour and we highly recommend them. See below for link to website:
Embark on an Unforgettable Journey with Southcoast Adventure
Lava Show in Vik
This one of a kind show features actual lava! Located in the town of Vik, inside the Soup Company Restaurant, is the exciting 50 min show! Tickets for this show are about $45 a person.
Lava Show in Iceland – Feel the Heat of Red-Hot Lava
Vestmannaeyjabær Island
This small island off the south coast is ideal for anyone looking to see Beluga Whales and Puffins.
Puffin season on Vestmannaeyjabær Island is May – August during the breeding season. You can find puffins on the south side of the island near Puffin Lookout.
To get to Vestmannaeyjabær Island you will need to purchase ferry tickets. We recommend buying them in advance since tickets can sell out.
Herjólfur – Ticket site for Vestmannaeyjabær Ferry
To best explore the island, we recommend bringing your car over on the ferry as well. Aside from seeing the puffins, you can explore the small town, hike the two volcanos and visit the Belugas at the Beluga Whale Sanctuary.
Scuba Driving (or Snorkeling) Between Tectonic Plates
This adventurous excursion is for those who are not afraid to jump into the freezing cold waters near Thingvellir National Park. This excursion includes a wetsuit and all the gear you will need to brave the frigged waters.
You will be able to dive into crystal clear blue waters just above the ever shifting tectonic plates that run through Iceland.
Day 1 – Reykjavik → Thingvellir → Geysir → Gullfoss (Golden Circle Start)
Arriving in Iceland
The first stop on your Iceland is arriving into Keflavik Airport and picking up your rental car. During our time in Iceland we rented through Blue Car Rentals and rented a Dacia Duster.
From Keflavik Airport, you will drive the short 30 min ride to Reykjavik for some breakfast and to see a couple famous landmarks such as Hallgrimskirkja and the Sun Voyager.
Thingvellir National Park
After spending a couple hours in Reykjavik, you will begin your drive to Thingvellir National Park. If you wish to spend more time exploring Reykjavik, later in the trip we recommend spending a night in Reykjavik before the conclusion of the trip.
Thingvellir National Park has many famous sites to see such as Öxarárfoss (a stunning waterfall perfect for pictures). Park at the Visitors Center and enjoy the picturesque walk to the waterfall. Enjoy the backdrop of the surrounding area and the beauty of nature!
Brúarfoss & Geysir
The next stop is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Iceland, Brúarfoss. This icy blue colored waterfall is about a 45 minute drive from Thingvellir National Park. If you are into photography, this is the place for you.
The natural color of this waterfall is truly breathtaking and unlike any other. Remember to pay for parking!
After spending some time at Brúarfoss, the next stop is Geysir. Located here is the Strokkur Geyser. This geothermal geyser erupts every 10-20 minutes, shooting boiling water up 65 feet (20 meters) into the air!
Gullfoss Waterfall
After spending some time in Geysir, Gulfoss is the next stop on the day 1 journey. This immense waterfall is truly stunning. During the summer, you are able to walk right up to the waterfall, it’s the perfect area to take plenty of pictures. Dress warm tho, it can be pretty cold here! Stop in the shop and enjoy a hot beverage to conclude the first day in Iceland!
There are plenty of good areas to stay the night in this area. Below are a few options!
Hotel Litli Geysir – Budget
This comfortable, budget friendly hotel is located right near the Strokkur Geyser. The heat here is all geothermal and has everything you need for an affordable, one night stay.
Hotel Geysir – Luxury
This stunning hotel has beautiful rooms with a view and a restaurant for buffet breakfast and sit down dinner.
Hotel Gullfoss – Luxury
Located near the Gullfoss Waterfall, this modern hotel is perfect for a one night stay. This hotel includes a breakfast buffet, a bar and tea/coffee maker in all rooms.
Day 2- Golden Circle Highlands — Haifoss & Fjallabak Nature Reserve
The Golden Circle
The next stop on your Iceland journey is back country driving through the Golden Circle. This pristine landscape has been mostly untouched, leaving one of the most stunning places to visit in Iceland. In the Golden Circle, you will see waterfalls, stunning mountain backdrops and much more.
To begin the journey, from Gullfoss head to route 30, then turn onto route 32. The first stop will be Haifoss.
Haifoss Waterfall
Hiafoss is a huge, dramatic waterfall located off route 32. You will need to drive off road on 332 to reach this waterfall, but the journey is well worth it. There are 2 waterfalls by Haifoss, both equally as amazing.
You may even catch a glimpse of a helicopter! There are tours that land in the field nearby throughout the day.
Fjallaback Nature Reserve
After visiting Haifoss, head back towards the main road and continue until you reach the right hand turn onto F208. Make sure to get gas if you need it before this turn, because there won’t be gas for a while after this!
You will need to cross multiple rivers while navigating this part of the trip. Be sure to obey all signs and remember to look for the shallow area in the river. Do not trust tire tracks since the river is always changing.
Sigoldufoss will be the first landmark to reach on this leg of the journey. The cascading waterfall into the icy blue pool is stunning and picturesque.
After visiting Sigoldufoss, continue along F208 until you exit the Nature Reserve. Take your time and enjoy the views and beautiful landscape.
There are plenty of spots to pull off and take pictures. Enjoy one of the best parts of road tripping Iceland!
After finishing up the Nature Reserve, drive to Kirkjubaejarklaustur to stay the night and rest up after a long day of adventuring!
Below are some recommendations of places to stay for the next 2 nights:
- Dalshofdi Guesthouse – $460 per couple, Apartment 1 Bedroom
- Magma Hotel – $313 per couple, breakfast included, 4 star hotel
- Stracta Apartments (expedia.com) – Apartment, $428 per couple
Day 3 – Iceland South Coast — Svartifoss, Vatnajökull & Diamond Beach
Glaciers, Waterfalls and Diamond Beach
From Kirkjubaejarklaustur, you will head up the east coast towards Diamond Beach. Along the way, there are a few stops to make. The first stop is the Svartifoss Trail.
Svartifoss Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1 hours
Trail Length: 2.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 446 ft
This moderately difficult trail has 3 waterfalls for you to view (Hundafoss, Magnúsarfoss, and Svartifoss).
At the end of the trail is the Svartifoss Waterfall. This waterfall is one of a kind with the hexagonal columns formed from lava flow rapidly cooling years ago.
After the hike, continue up route 1 to the Vatnajokull Glacier.
Vatnajokull Glacier
At the Vatnajokull Glacier, you can get an up close view of this massive glacier. For safety reasons you cannot walk on the glacier, but how often do you get the chance to get this close to a massive active glacier?
Diamond Beach
Next stop on the journey is the famous Diamond Beach. This beach is famous for the huge chunks of ice that fall off the icebergs off the coast. These chunks of ice then wash up on the beach and look like diamonds when the sun hits them just right.
The number of chunks of ice depends on the season, but the beauty of the black sand beach is another thing to admire about this place.
Another landmark to check out is the cove near Diamond Beach. Jökulsárlón is a glacier lake formed over many years of glacial melt. You can see massive icebergs floating in the water here, and catch multiple gray seals swimming.
After ending the day at Diamond Beach, head back to Kirkjubaejarklaustur for the night. Along the way, there are several restaurants to try out that are incredible!
Day 4 – Exploring Ice Caves, Vik, Black Sands Beach, Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss
Ice Cave Tour
Day 4 of your Iceland journey might feel like the most otherworldly experience. There’s nothing quite like driving out to an active glacier and seeing the incredible landscape of Iceland.
Like we talked about earlier, we booked our Ice Cave Tour with Southcoast Adventures and we could not have been happier with the results.
After being picked up in a SuperJeep from Vik, you will be brought through backcountry Iceland to the spot where the opening scene of Rogue One was filmed. This is truly one of the most otherworldly experiences you can enjoy. It literally feels like you’re stepping onto an alien planet with all the black sand and moss filled landscape.
Touring the ice cave is just as exciting. Each ice cave tour can be slightly different depending on the condition of the ice. But, just know this group takes every precaution to make sure you feel 100% safe touring the caves and walking the glacier.
The tour is about 2 hours and about $200 per person, but it’s well worth the price. If you have the opportunity, we highly recommend this.
Lunch in Vik
After the conclusion of the ice cave tour, there are plenty of great places to stop in and have a quick bite to eat in Vik. Below are a couple of recommendations to enjoy a nice meal and warm yourself up!
Black Crust Pizzeria
This pizza restaurant uses activated charcoal to turn the crust black! This adds a delicious flavor to the pizzas made with this, and it’s also gut healthy! One half of the menu is pizza made without the charcoal infused, but we highly recommend the black crust if your interested.
The Soup Company
With a large variety of different soup options, this is the perfect stop to warm you up after a cold day exploring Iceland. The gourmet hot chocolate is incredible as well if you are looking for a sweet treat.
If you are looking to see the Lava Show, this is the location where it is held in Vik. Look online for availability and try to do both together!
Víkurfjara Black Sand Beach
After getting a quick bite to eat, head over to the Black Sand Beach and check out the stunning caves and rock formations that have formed on this beach. Obey signs and watch out for any rogue waves!
Another great stop in Vik is the Vík i Myrdal Church. If you have time, take a quick drive up to the church and enjoy the view overlooking the town. It’s well worth the short detour!
It wouldn’t be Iceland without more waterfalls!
Once you have finished exploring Vik, begin the drive to the town of Hvolsvöllur. Along the way, there are some incredible spots to stop by for epic views of stunning waterfalls.
Skógafoss and the Fimmvörðuháls Trail
The next stop on the way to Hvolsvöllur is Skógafoss. This massive 60 meter (200 ft) waterfall is definitely something to behold. The sheer mass of the waterfall is incredible, even in the dry season.
To the right of the waterfall is the Fimmvörðuháls Trail. This trail climbs all the way to the glacier, but if you are not looking to climb the glacier, you can go about 2 miles (3 km) up the trail to see 7 waterfalls along the way. This trail is considered moderately difficult so make sure to wear the proper hiking gear.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is another stunning waterfall that you don’t want to miss. This particular waterfall has a short path behind the waterfall. At sunset, the view from the back of the waterfall is truly breathtaking.
After finishing up your visit to Seljalandsfoss, enjoy a stay overnight for the next couple nights near Hvolsvöllur.
Day 5 – Vestmannaeyjabær Island: Puffins, Volcanoes & Beluga Sanctuary
Puffins and Visiting Vestmannaeyjabær Island
Day 5 of the Iceland Road Trip continues with a visit to Vestmannaeyjabær Island. Before your visit, remember to book ferry tickets online ahead of time for yourself and your vehicle. Traveling around the island by vehicle makes seeing the entire island much easier.
This small island has plenty of great activities, places to eat and drink, and much more to enjoy. If you are only here for a day, we have listed some of the best activities to enjoy!
Puffin Lookout
Puffins are one of the best things about visiting Vestmannaeyjabær Island. If you happen to be visiting in May – August during the breeding season, you will get the chance to see this colorful birds nestled along the cliff side.
Hiking on Vestmannaeyjabær Island
Hiking is one of the best activities to do while visiting the island. Below is one of the most popular hikes for tourists visiting for the day.
Eldfell Volcano via Eldheimar
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 30 mins
Trail Length: 1.6 miles
This short hike gives one of the best views on the island. From the top of the hike, you have views of the town below, the coastline and volcanic landscape.
Beluga Sanctuary
Vestmannaeyjabær Island is home to 2 Beluga whales that are taken care of at Sea Life Trust Beluga Sanctuary. This charity aims to provide these whales with a safe, natural home to help protect these amazing animals.
Right near the docks is the aquarium where you will see puffins, starfish, different species of fish and of course, the belugas.
Admission is about $20 (2160 ISK) per person. This gives you full access to the sanctuary and all the time you need to enjoy the variety of animals taken care of here.
After finishing up at Vestmannaeyjabær Island, hop back onto the ferry and enjoy the short ride back to mainland Iceland. From there, enjoy another night in Hvolsvöllur before traveling the next day to the Blue Lagoon!
Day 6 – Relaxing at Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon
If you ever have heard someone talk about Iceland, I’m sure you have heard them mention the Blue Lagoon.
Located south of Keflavík, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s best, most luxurious spas. The milky blue water is relaxing and peaceful. It’s the perfect way to complete a long journey around Iceland especially with all the hiking, exploring and sightseeing that you have done over the past week. You earned this!
Before arriving to the Blue Lagoon it’s important to remember a couple details:
- Book your time at the Blue Lagoon ahead of time – This is especially important since you need to book a specific time slot you plan to visit the lagoon. These can sell out quickly so it’s important to do this ahead of time so you won’t miss out! Visit Blue Lagoon Iceland website to book your visit!
- Condition your hair before entering the water – For those with long hair, the silicon in the water can damage your hair while enjoying the warm water. It’s best to shower and condition your hair before getting into the water to prevent this.
Overall
Iceland is one of the most otherworldly places on Earth—where lava fields meet glaciers, black sand beaches stretch for miles, and waterfalls seem to appear around every bend. Even with a full week on the road, the beauty of Iceland will leave you wanting more.
This 7 day Iceland road trip itinerary gives you the perfect mix of adventure, sightseeing, hiking, culture, wildlife, and relaxation. From the Golden Circle to the remote highlands, from glacier lagoons to puffin cliffs, every day is unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another round of Icelandic magic, we hope this guide helps you experience the very best of the Land of Fire and Ice.
If you enjoyed this itinerary or have questions about planning your own Iceland road trip, drop a comment below—I’d love to help you prepare for your adventure. And if you’re looking for more Iceland tips, check out our related guides and resources!
