The Ultimate Iceland Road Trip: 10-Day Ring Road Itinerary

Planning your first trip to Iceland and want to see the highlights in one go? A road trip is hands down the best way to do it!

Driving the Ring Road lets you experience waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, and geothermal areas all in one trip, while giving you the freedom to stop wherever you want along the way. The landscapes here are on another level, and it’s honestly one of the most epic road trips we’ve ever done!

I’ve done this route twice, and this 10-day Iceland road trip itinerary follows the full Ring Road with a couple of different overnight stops and a well-paced plan.

In this guide, you’ll find a complete day-by-day Iceland itinerary with driving times, must-see stops, optional add-ons, and practical tips to help you plan your 10 days in Iceland.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.

Good to Know Before Your Iceland Road Trip

📅 When is the best time to do this Iceland road trip?

Late spring through early fall is ideal, thanks to long daylight hours, easier driving conditions, and full access to the Ring Road. For the best balance overall, plan your trip between early June and mid-September.

🌤 What is the weather like in Iceland in the summer?

Even in summer, Iceland rarely feels warm. In July and August, temperatures usually sit around 10–15°C, and it can feel colder because of the wind and rain. The weather can change very quickly, so it’s normal to experience sun, rain, and strong winds on the same day. Plan accordingly!

🚗 Renting a car for an Iceland road trip

You’ll need to rent a car to drive the Ring Road, as guided tours only cover parts of this route, and there is no public transport option. A 2WD car is usually enough if you stick to the main Ring Road and official parking areas. Download the Parka app for easy parking in Iceland!

🗺 What is driving in Iceland actually like?

Driving in Iceland is generally easy, but conditions can change quickly because of the weather and strong winds. Most of the Ring Road is paved and well-maintained, but you’ll still encounter single-lane bridges, gravel parking lots, and occasional strong crosswinds. Always check road conditions and weather forecasts before driving and allow extra time on longer travel days.

📍 How long are the drives on this Iceland itinerary?

Driving distances in Iceland can be longer than they look on the map. Most days include around 2–4 hours of driving, but a few longer days can reach 5–6 hours or more, especially along the South Coast and between North Iceland and Snæfellsnes.

🧭 How is this 10-day Iceland road trip structured?

This itinerary is designed for 10 full days in Iceland, which is a great amount of time to do a full circle on the Ring Road. If you arrive early on Day 1, it’s still doable, but it’s best to arrive the evening before so you can start fresh. You should also plan an extra day at the end for departure.

🏨 Where should you stay on this Iceland Ring Road trip?

Accommodation in Iceland books out quickly, especially in summer, so I highly recommend booking hotels as early as possible once you know your travel dates! For this route, you’ll stay in a few key areas around the island, and I’ll share specific hotel recommendations for each stop later in this itinerary to help you choose the best base for each part of the trip.

Overview of Your 10-Day Iceland Road Trip

This Iceland road trip takes you all the way around the island along the famous Ring Road, covering many of the country’s most iconic landscapes, from waterfalls and glaciers to volcanoes, black sand beaches, and geothermal areas.

This itinerary is designed for 10 full days in Iceland and does not include arrival or departure days. If you have less time than that, I personally wouldn’t recommend driving the full Ring Road, as the pace would become very rushed.

If you arrive early on Day 1 and don’t mind starting sightseeing right away, you can use your arrival day as Day 1. If you arrive the day before and have extra time, you could visit the Blue Lagoon near the airport, which also helps make Day 3 a bit less busy.

For departure, you’ll most likely need an extra day, since Day 10 ends on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. If you need to be back in Reykjavik that same day, you can shorten your time on Snæfellsnes and drive back in the evening.

It is possible to fit everything into 10 calendar days this way, but it’s not the most relaxed option.

If you have more time, this trip is very easy to extend. With one extra day for arrival and one for departure, the trip becomes 12 days total. If you have closer to two weeks, I recommend adding extra nights on the South Coast and possibly on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula for a slower, more relaxed pace.

Breakdown of your 10 days in Iceland

• Day 1: Reykjavík, Perlan, Sky Lagoon
• Day 2: Thingvellir National Park, Kerið Crater, Brúarfoss, Stokkur Geyser, Gullfoss, Hrunalaug Hot Spring
• Day 3: Blue Lagoon, Seljalandsfoss, Kvernufoss, Skógar Museum, Skogafoss, Sólheimajökull
• Day 4: Westman Islands (Heimaey)
• Day 5: Solheimasandur Plane Wreck, Dyrhólaey Viewpoint, Reynisfjara Beach, Vík i Myrdal, Fjaðrárgljúfur, Svínafellsjökull Glacier, Diamond Beach, Höfn
• Day 6: Stokksnes, Eggin í Gleðivík, Sveinsstekksfoss, Folaldafoss, Seydisfjordur, Vök Baths, Egilsstaðir
• Day 7: Stuðlagil Canyon, Dettifoss, Earth Lagoon Mývatn
• Day 8: Whale watching, Goðafoss Waterfall, Lake Mývatn loop
• Day 9: Grafarkirkja, Hofsós, Kolugljúfur Canyon, Kirkjufellsfoss
• Day 10: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Where to stay during your Iceland road trip

If you want to follow this exact itinerary, I recommend staying in the following areas:

• Reykjavík: 2 nights (Top pick: Center Hotels Plaza)
• South Coast: 2 nights (Top pick: The Garage)
• Höfn: 1 night (Top pick: Höfn Inn Guesthouse)
• Egilsstaðir: 1 night (Top pick: Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel Egilsstadir)
• Lake Mývatn: 2 nights (Top pick: Hótel Laxá)
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula: 2 nights (Top pick: Kirkjufell Guesthouse and Apartments)

Hotels in Iceland book out very fast, especially in summer. Even though the island is big, hotel options are quite limited in many areas, so I highly recommend booking as early as possible.

Since you’ll have a rental car, you’ll have more flexibility with location, so staying within a 30–60 minute driving radius can also work. If you want to save money, self-catering apartments are often a great option if you don’t want to eat out constantly.

Map for your Iceland Ring Road itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Iceland road trip itinerary.

I marked the different parts of the road trip with different colors so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Day 1: Reykjavik

This first day is designed to be easy and flexible, with no long drives and plenty of time to ease into the trip. You’ll spend the day exploring Reykjavik, visiting one of the city’s most unique attractions, and finishing with a relaxing lagoon experience in the evening.

You don’t necessarily need a car for this day, as everything can be reached on foot, by bus, or taxi, but having your rental car from Day 1 can make the day a bit easier.

Explore Reykjavik

Start the first day of your Iceland itinerary with a walk around Reykjavik, which is compact and easy to explore on foot. Begin along the waterfront, where you can walk between Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture, two of the most iconic spots in the city, and it’s easy to visit them back-to-back.

From there, head toward Hallgrímskirkja, the most famous church in Iceland. You can go inside the church, but I highly recommend going up to the tower as well, which gives you one of the best views over Reykjavik’s colorful rooftops and the surrounding mountains.

After that, spend some time exploring the Old Town streets. This is a great place to stop for coffee, browse small local shops, or join a food tour if you want a deeper introduction to Icelandic cuisine.

If you prefer to just grab lunch, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is famous for its Icelandic hot dogs, and Icelandic Street Food or 101 Reykjavik are also great options for something more filling.

Plan around 4 to 5 hours for exploring Reykjavik so you don’t feel rushed and still have time for the rest of the day.

Perlan

In the afternoon, head to Perlan, which is one of the most interesting museums in Reykjavik and a great introduction to Iceland’s nature and geology.

The exhibitions cover glaciers, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights, and they’re all very interactive and easy to follow, even if you’re not usually into museums.

The indoor ice cave was one of my favorite parts, where you can walk through a real ice tunnel and learn how Icelandic glaciers form and change over time.

There’s also a volcanic exhibition and lava demonstration that shows how lava behaves and flows, which is really interesting if you want to understand Iceland’s volcanic landscape better.

Make sure you go up to the observation deck as well, which gives you wide views over Reykjavik, the ocean, and the surrounding mountains. There’s also a cafe and restaurant at the top, so it’s a nice place to take a break, especially if the weather isn’t great.

To get there, you can take a bus from the city center, grab a taxi, or drive if you already picked up your rental car. If you’re driving, there’s easy parking right outside.

Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon is the perfect way to end Day 1 of your Iceland itinerary, especially after a full morning exploring the city. The lagoon sits right on the ocean, and the infinity edge views over the water make it feel very different from other geothermal spas you might visit during your Iceland road trip.

The highlight here is the seven-step Ritual, which includes the lagoon soak, a cold plunge, sauna with ocean views, steam room, and body scrub. I highly recommend doing the full ritual if you have time, as it’s a big part of the experience!

When booking, you’ll see two ticket types: the Saman Pass includes the Ritual, while the Sér Pass also gives you private changing facilities if you want a bit more comfort.

Since space is limited, you’ll need to book tickets in advance for a specific time slot, especially in summer.

Sky Lagoon is about an 8-minute drive from Perlan and around 15 minutes from central Reykjavik. You can technically get there by public transport, but it’s quite time-consuming, so taking a taxi is usually a much better option if you don’t have your rental car yet.

Sky Lagoon is open until 9 pm, which makes it easy to visit in the evening after sightseeing.

Overnight in Reykjavik

For this Iceland road trip itinerary, you’ll spend your first two nights in Reykjavik. Staying in the city is the most convenient option for exploring on foot on Day 1 and makes it easy to start your Golden Circle drive the next morning.

Reykjavik has the widest range of accommodation options you’ll find anywhere in Iceland. I recommend staying somewhere close to the city center so you can easily walk to restaurants, cafes, and the main sights.

If you’re renting a car from Day 1, double-check parking options, as many central hotels either have limited spaces or paid street parking.

Here are some great places to stay in Reykjavik:

• The Reykjavik EDITION – One of the best 5-star luxury hotels in Reykjavik, with a waterfront location and easy walking distance to the main sights.
• Center Hotels Plaza – A very popular mid-range hotel right in the center of Reykjavik, close to restaurants, shops, and the Old Town area.
• Hotel Local 101 – A budget-friendly 3-star hotel with a great central location, making it a good choice if you want to keep costs lower while staying in the city.
• Skólavörðustígur Apartments – A great self-catering option in the center, ideal if you want more space or the option to cook some of your own meals.
• Guesthouse Pavi – One of the cheapest accommodation options in Reykjavik, best if you’re focused on saving money and don’t mind simpler facilities.

Day 2: Golden Circle

Today you’ll explore the famous Golden Circle, one of the most popular routes in Iceland and a classic part of any Iceland itinerary. This is your first proper driving day, with around 4.5 hours of total driving depending on stops, so I recommend starting the day early to keep the pace comfortable.

If you don’t want to rent a car yet, many guided tour options cover a similar route, including the main Golden Circle stops plus Kerið Crater.

That said, I personally think having a car is the better option, as it allows you to add a few lesser-known stops along the way and gives you much more flexibility throughout the day. If this feels like too much for one day, you can easily skip a few stops and still see the main highlights.

Thingvellir National Park

Start your Golden Circle day at Thingvellir National Park, one of the most historically and geologically important places in Iceland. It’s about a 50 to 60-minute drive from Reykjavik, making it an easy first stop of the day.

This is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, and you can walk between them along marked paths through the rift valley.

While many people stop at the main viewpoint near the visitor center, I recommend heading down into the park to explore on foot. The trail to Öxarárfoss waterfall is short and easy, and walking through the rift valley gives you a much better sense of the landscape.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, this is also where you can snorkel or dive in Silfra, a crystal clear fissure between the tectonic plates. It’s one of the most unique experiences in Iceland, but you’ll need to book this experience in advance.

There are multiple parking areas within the park, but Öxarárfoss Parking is a great choice if you want to be close to the waterfall and some of the most scenic walking paths. Parking is paid, and you’ll find restrooms and basic facilities near the main areas.

Kerið Crater

After Thingvellir, drive about 40 minutes to Kerið Crater. While it’s not officially part of the classic Golden Circle, it’s right along the route, and I think it’s absolutely worth adding to your Iceland itinerary!

Unlike many volcanic craters in Iceland, Kerið is filled with bright blue water, and the contrast between the red volcanic rock and the lake makes it look really cool. You can walk along the rim for views from above, then follow the path down to the water level for a completely different perspective.

There’s a small entrance fee, and parking is right next to the crater, so it’s an easy and quick stop. Some Golden Circle tours include Kerið as well, but having your own car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace before continuing toward the geysers and waterfalls.

Bruarfoss

Next, make a small detour to Brúarfoss, one of the bluest waterfalls you’ll see on this Iceland Ring Road itinerary! It’s not part of the classic Golden Circle, and none of the tours include it, so it’s only possible to visit if you already have a rental car.

In the past, visiting Brúarfoss required a long hike, but there is now an official parking area that makes access much easier. From the parking lot, it’s a short walk along a marked path to the waterfall.

This stop is a little bit out of the way, but not much, and I think it’s absolutely worth visiting! That said, if you’re running behind schedule, this is one of the easier places to skip.

Stokkur Geyser

The geothermal area at Geysir is one of the highlights of the Golden Circle. While the original Great Geysir is mostly inactive today, Strokkur erupts every few minutes, sending boiling water high into the air.

You don’t have to wait long here. Strokkur typically erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, which means you can easily watch it several times to capture photos or video. The surrounding area is filled with bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and colorful mineral deposits, so it’s worth walking around a bit beyond just the main geyser.

Parking is free and located right across the road from the geothermal field, along with restrooms and a large visitor center with a cafe. It’s an easy stop logistically, but the smell of sulfur can be strong, so don’t be surprised by that!

Gullfoss

One of the most powerful waterfalls in Iceland, Gullfoss is a true highlight of the Golden Circle. The waterfall drops in two dramatic stages into a rugged canyon, and on sunny days, you can often see rainbows forming in the mist.

It’s only about a 10-minute drive from the Geysir geothermal area, which makes it an easy next stop. There are multiple viewing platforms, both from above and closer to the waterfall.

I recommend walking the lower path if conditions allow, as it gives you a much more immersive perspective. Just be prepared for spray and slippery surfaces!

Parking is free and located right next to the main viewing area, with restrooms and a cafe inside the visitor center.

Hrunalaug Hot Spring

To end the day on a relaxing note, head to Hrunalaug, a small natural hot spring tucked away in the countryside. It was honestly one of my favorite hot spring experiences in Iceland because it feels very small and intimate, and the surrounding views are beautiful.

There are three small pools, and the number of visitors allowed in at once is limited. This keeps the experience calm and uncrowded, but it also means you might need to wait a bit if you arrive when it’s full.

In my opinion, it’s worth it! In summer, it’s usually open until 11 pm, which makes it a great evening stop after a full day of sightseeing. There are simple changing huts on site, but no lockers, and you can stay for a maximum of 1.5 hours.

It’s about a 30-minute drive from Gullfoss, and from there it takes roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes to drive back to Reykjavik for the night.

Day 3: Blue Lagoon & South Coast

Today you’ll leave Reykjavik and continue along the South Coast, one of the most scenic stretches of this 10-day Iceland itinerary. The total driving time is around 3.5 to 4 hours without stops, but with waterfalls and viewpoints along the way, it will easily turn into a full day.

You’ll start with a geothermal spa experience before heading toward some of the most iconic waterfalls in Iceland. I recommend starting early, especially if you plan to visit the Blue Lagoon in the morning!

If you still don’t want to drive, you have the option to join a full-day South Coast tour from Reykjavik. However, since this is a Ring Road route, it doesn’t really make sense to return to Reykjavik in the evening only to drive the same distance again the next day. Having your own car makes this day much more logical and efficient!

Blue Lagoon

Now it’s time to visit the famous Blue Lagoon, one of the most iconic stops in Iceland! It’s located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, almost next to Keflavik Airport, which means it can also make sense to visit on your arrival or departure day instead, if that works better for you.

You’ll need to book a specific time slot in advance, as entry is limited. The lagoon usually opens at 8 am, and I highly recommend booking the first time slot so you can enjoy it before the larger crowds arrive.

The standard Comfort ticket includes lagoon access, a silica mud mask, a towel, and one drink at the swim-up bar. You can upgrade to the Premium ticket for two additional masks and a bathrobe. If you don’t have a rental car yet, you can also book tickets that include round-trip transfers from Reykjavik.

It’s quite an expensive experience, there’s no denying it, but I do think it’s worth it! The milky blue water surrounded by dark lava fields is just such a unique setting, and being in the water feels amazing.

There’s also a cafe and a restaurant on site, so you can easily grab breakfast or an early lunch before continuing your drive. Be mindful of timing, but even if you stay until around noon, the rest of the day is still very doable.

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is usually the first major waterfall you’ll reach as you begin driving along the South Coast. Logistically, it makes the most sense to stop here before continuing east toward the other sights of the day.

However, if you’re staying nearby, I’d actually recommend coming back here at the end of the day for sunset instead. The evening light can be unreal, especially on clear days, and it’s one of the most photogenic spots along the South Coast!

What makes Seljalandsfoss special is that you can actually walk behind the waterfall. If you choose to do that, you’re going to get soaking wet, but that’s part of the experience! Seeing the water crash down in front of you while looking out over the landscape is something you won’t forget.

Just a few minutes away on foot, you’ll also find Gljúfrabúi, a smaller waterfall hidden inside a narrow canyon. It’s easy to miss, but definitely worth the short walk.

Kvernufoss

Just a short 30-minute drive from Seljalandsfoss, you’ll find Kvernufoss, one of my favorite waterfalls on the South Coast. It’s tucked away behind the Skógar Museum area, and because it’s slightly less obvious, it’s usually much quieter than some of the bigger names nearby.

The walk to the waterfall takes about 15 to 20 minutes from the parking area and follows a scenic path through a small canyon. Just like at Seljalandsfoss, you can walk behind the waterfall here as well, but with fewer people around, it often feels more peaceful and intimate.

If you’re already planning to visit Skógar Museum, this stop is especially convenient since they share the same general parking area.

Skogar Museum

After visiting Kvernufoss, I recommend heading over to Skógar Museum, which shares the same parking area and is just a short walk away. It’s a surprisingly interesting stop if you want to learn more about Iceland’s history and traditional way of life.

The museum complex includes turf houses, historic buildings, fishing boats, and exhibits that give you a real sense of how people lived here in the past. It’s easy to spend an hour here without it feeling overwhelming.

The museum typically closes at 5 pm, so if you’re watching the time, it makes sense to visit this first and then walk to Kvernufoss afterward.

Inside the Technical Museum building, you’ll find Freyacafe, which has a very pretty floral interior and serves really good food. I absolutely loved it! It’s a great place for lunch or a coffee break before continuing your South Coast drive.

Skogafoss

Skógafoss is located very close to the Skógar area. You can technically walk between the museum and the waterfall in about 25 minutes, but I think it’s much more practical to drive the 5 minutes and park at the Skógafoss parking lot.

Skógafoss is one of the most powerful waterfalls on this Iceland travel itinerary and it was recently featured in Game of Thrones, which made it even more famous!

The water drops straight down in a dramatic curtain, and on sunny days you’ll often see rainbows forming in the mist. You can walk right up to the base, but you’ll get very wet from the spray.

There’s a staircase to the right that takes you up to a viewing platform at the top. Climbing to the first viewpoint is absolutely worth it, but the trail doesn’t end there. You can continue hiking along the river, where there are many additional waterfalls and viewpoints.

The full hike is very long and would take most of a day, so unless you’re planning a dedicated hiking day, just going up to the main viewpoint or exploring a bit beyond it is more than enough.

If you’re visiting in June or July when the lupins are blooming, there’s a beautiful field near the waterfall. It’s not directly in front of it, but accessible from the Ring Road, and with a telephoto lens you can create some really stunning compositions.

Solheimajokull

If you still have time and energy, consider stopping at Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier you can easily access from the Ring Road. It’s only a short detour with a dedicated parking area, followed by a flat 10 to 15-minute walk to the glacier tongue.

Seeing the glacier up close is a very different experience compared to waterfalls. You can walk near the ice, observe the deep crevasses and dark volcanic ash layers, or join a guided glacier hike if you want something more adventurous.

Overnight on the South Coast

For the next two nights, I recommend staying somewhere along the South Coast. This gives you a convenient base for the waterfalls and nearby sights, and it also makes it easy to do the Westman Islands as a day trip on Day 4 before continuing your Iceland Ring Road trip afterward.

Vík is the most popular base in the area, with the widest range of restaurants and services. If you prefer something quieter, there are also great countryside hotels and farm stays between Seljalandsfoss and Vík. For the best logistics, I recommend choosing the latter, but it’s up to you.

Accommodation along the South Coast books out very quickly in summer, so it’s best to secure your stay as early as possible!

Here are some great places to stay along the South Coast:

• UMI Hotel – A boutique countryside hotel between Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, perfect if you want a quieter setting with beautiful mountain views.
• The Garage – A great apartment-style option with kitchen facilities, ideal if you want more space or prefer cooking some of your own meals.
• Sólheimahjáleiga Guesthouse – A more budget-friendly countryside stay (this is where we stayed). Some rooms have shared bathrooms, and there’s no kitchen, but it’s a solid option if you’re trying to keep costs down.
• Hotel Vík í Mýrdal – A very popular hotel in Vík with a convenient location close to restaurants and the main South Coast attractions.

Day 4: Westman Islands (Heimaey)

Today you’ll take a break from driving the Ring Road and head to the Westman Islands, one of the most unique stops on this Iceland road trip itinerary. The island of Heimaey is known for its dramatic cliffs, volcanic landscapes, and puffin colonies in summer.

Ferry to Heimaey

To reach Heimaey, you’ll take the ferry from Landeyjahöfn to Heimaey. The crossing takes about 35 to 40 minutes and runs multiple times per day, but I highly recommend checking the schedule in advance and booking ahead in summer.

You can either walk on as a passenger or bring your rental car with you. Since you already have a rental, I recommend bringing it because it gives you much more flexibility on the island.

Plan to arrive at the ferry terminal early, especially if you’re bringing a vehicle. Depending on where you’re staying on the South Coast, the drive will take between 15 minutes (from Seljalandsfoss) or one hour (from Vík).

Explore Heimaey

Heimaey may be small, but there’s plenty to see in a single day! One of the best things you can do is hike up Eldfell, the volcano that erupted in 1973 and reshaped the island.

The trail is short but steep, and from the top, you get sweeping views over the town of Vestmannaeyjabær, the harbor, and the surrounding cliffs. It’s one of the most impressive viewpoints of this entire Iceland Ring Road itinerary.

To understand what happened during the eruption, stop by Eldheimar Museum, which tells the story of how lava buried parts of the town and how residents were evacuated overnight. It adds important context to everything you see on the island.

For dramatic coastal scenery, drive or walk toward Stórhöfði, one of the windiest places in Europe and home to rugged cliffs and a lighthouse. This is also one of the best areas to see puffins in summer.

If you want an even closer look, you can join a Puffin and Volcano Tour or a one-hour sightseeing boat tour around the island, both of which give you a different perspective of the sea caves, rock formations, and bird cliffs.

Don’t miss Elephant Rock, a natural basalt formation shaped like an elephant’s head emerging from the ocean. It’s one of the most photographed spots on Heimaey and best seen from the water on a boat tour.

Before heading back, spend some time wandering around the harbor and town center. The colorful houses and fishing boats give the island a completely different feel compared to the mainland.

Day 5: South Coast to Hofn

Today is one of the longest and most packed days of this Iceland road trip. You’ll continue driving east toward Höfn, with black sand beaches, dramatic viewpoints, glaciers, and canyons along the way.

The total driving time is around 3.5 to 4 hours without stops, but once you add sightseeing, this easily becomes a full day. I recommend starting early and planning to finish late, especially in summer when daylight hours are long. While it’s possible to visit everything listed below, you may need to drop one or two stops depending on your pace.

This is a big transition day on your Iceland itinerary, but the scenery along this stretch is some of the most dramatic on the entire island.

Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

One of the more unusual stops on this Iceland road trip itinerary is the Solheimasandur plane wreck, the remains of a US Navy DC aircraft that crash landed here in 1973. The wreck sits on a vast black sand plain, which gives it a very dramatic and almost apocalyptic feel.

Reaching it requires some planning. The walk from the parking lot to the wreck takes about 45 minutes each way and is completely flat and, honestly, very boring.

If you don’t want to spend that much time walking, there’s a shuttle service that runs roughly every 30 minutes between 10 am and 5 pm in summer. The ride takes about 10 minutes and drops you close to the plane, which makes it a much more efficient option on a packed day like this.

If you take the first shuttles in the morning, you can usually be back at your car by around 11 am. If the day starts feeling too long, this is the easiest stop to skip, especially since there’s not much to see other than the plane wreck itself.

Dyrholaey Viewpoint

Continue toward Dyrhólaey, one of the most dramatic viewpoints along the South Coast. I recommend driving up to the upper viewpoint near the lighthouse, where you’ll get sweeping views over the black sand beaches, sea stacks, and the famous rock arch that gives the area its name.

From here, you can see for miles in both directions, and on a clear day, the coastline looks endless. It’s an easy stop with minimal walking from the parking area, but the scenery feels wild and expansive.

If you’re an early riser, this is actually a great place to visit before the plane wreck. Since the shuttle to Solheimasandur doesn’t start until around 10 am, you can come here first, enjoy the morning light, and then continue to the plane wreck afterward.

Reynisfjara Beach

Reynisfjara is one of the most famous black sand beaches in Iceland, known for its basalt column cave and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean. For years, it had a wide stretch of sand where you could walk far along the shoreline.

Very recently, strong winter storms and erosion reshaped parts of the beach. The shoreline now sits much closer to the cliffs, and some areas that were previously easy to access, including parts of the cave and the basalt column section, can be underwater or significantly reduced depending on conditions.

That said, it’s still absolutely worth visiting. The basalt formations and sea stacks are just as striking, it just looks a bit different than in older photos. And with the beach narrower than before, it’s even more important to stay well back from the water and watch for sneaker waves.

Vik i Myrdal

A little further east, you’ll arrive in Vík í Mýrdal, the southernmost village in Iceland and a natural stop to stretch your legs and grab lunch. It’s small but has a few cafes, restaurants, and gas stations, making it a practical break on this long driving day.

From the town, you can walk down to Víkurfjara Black Sand Beach, which is much calmer and more accessible than Reynisfjara. The beach here offers beautiful views toward the Reynisdrangar sea stacks in the distance, and it’s a nice contrast after the dramatic cliffs earlier in the day.

For one of the best viewpoints, drive up to the Vík Church on the hill above town. From here, you’ll get a sweeping view over the village, the coastline, and the black sand beach below. It’s a quick stop but definitely worth it.

If you’re stopping for lunch, Black Crust Pizzeria is a popular choice known for its charcoal crust pizzas, while Ströndin Pub is a good option for something more casual with a seaside setting.

Fjaðrargljufur Canyon

From Vík, it’s about a one-hour drive east to Fjaðrárgljúfur, one of the most beautiful canyons in Iceland. The road leading to the parking area is gravel, but manageable in a regular 2WD car during summer.

The canyon is long and winding, with steep moss-covered cliffs and a river running through the bottom. You can’t walk down into the canyon, but there’s a well-marked trail along the rim with several viewpoints overlooking the dramatic curves below.

It’s an easy walk overall, and even if you only visit the first few viewpoints, it’s absolutely worth the stop before continuing toward the glacier region and Höfn.

Svinafellsjokull Glacier

From Fjaðrárgljúfur, it’s about a 1-hour and 15-minute drive to Svínafellsjökull, one of the most accessible glacier tongues along the Ring Road. This part of the drive starts to feel more dramatic as you enter the glacier region of this Iceland ring road itinerary.

A short walk from the parking area brings you close to the glacier, where you can see deep crevasses, blue ice formations, and dark volcanic ash layers running through the ice. It’s an easy stop with minimal walking required, but getting this close to a glacier is still very impressive.

Diamond Beach

After exploring the glacier area, continue east for about 45 minutes to Diamond Beach, your last major stop before driving the final stretch to Höfn for the night.

The beach sits right across the road from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where chunks of ice break off from the glacier and drift out toward the ocean. Many of those ice pieces wash back onto the black sand, creating the “diamond” effect that gives the beach its name.

If you manage to catch sunset here, the light reflecting on the ice can be epic! Keep an eye on the lagoon as well, as there are often seals swimming between the floating icebergs.

Overnight in Hofn

It’s time to drive the last stretch of the day, and you still have about one hour on the road before reaching Höfn. I know, it’s a really long day, but I think it’s better to push through and stay in Höfn for one night so you can start early at Stokksnes the next morning.

Höfn is a small fishing town known for its lobster restaurants and views toward the Vatnajökull glacier. It’s not a large town, but it has supermarkets, gas stations, and several good dining options, which makes it a comfortable place to recharge after such a full day on this Iceland ring road itinerary.

Here are some great places to stay in Höfn:

• Lilja Guesthouse – Located a bit outside of Höfn, but a really great option. We stayed here on our first trip to Iceland and loved it.
• Höfn Inn Guesthouse – This is where we stayed on our next trip, and it’s one of the cheapest options in town. Nothing fancy, but it has private bathrooms and a central location.
• Skýjaborg Apartments – Modern studios and apartments with kitchenettes right in Höfn, perfect if you want more space or the option to cook.

Day 6: Eastfjords to Egilsstaðir

Today, you’ll leave Höfn behind and begin driving through the Eastfjords, one of the quieter and less visited parts of this Iceland ring road itinerary. The scenery changes again here, with winding coastal roads, small fishing villages, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain backdrops.

The total driving time is around 4-5 hours without stops, but you have a few optional places to stop along the route.

Stokksnes

Start the morning at Stokksnes, just a short drive from Höfn. The black sand dunes and grassy patches here sit right in front of Vestrahorn, one of the most dramatic mountains in Iceland.

If you can get up for sunrise, this is the time to be here! When the wind is calm, the reflections on the wet sand and shallow pools can be absolutely epic. We unfortunately had the worst weather with insane wind and low clouds completely covering Vestrahorn, but it was still beautiful and worth the stop.

You’ll need to stop at the Viking Café to pay the entrance fee before driving down to the beach. There’s also a small Viking village film set near the shore that you can walk around, which adds something a little different to this stop before continuing into the Eastfjords.

Eggin i Gleðivik

About 1.5 hours east of Stokksnes, you’ll reach the small fishing town of Djúpivogur. There aren’t any major attractions between the two stops, but the coastal scenery along this stretch is beautiful.

Right along the harbor in Djúpivogur, you’ll find Eggin í Gleðivík, a small outdoor art installation featuring large granite sculptures shaped like bird eggs. Each one represents a species that nests in the area.

It only takes a few minutes to walk around, and while I wouldn’t call it a highlight of the trip, it’s a nice, easy stop to stretch your legs. If you’re short on time, this is one of the places you can skip.

Sveinsstekksfoss

Continuing through the Eastfjords, in just 15 minutes you’ll come across Sveinsstekksfoss, a roadside waterfall that’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. It’s located right off the Ring Road, so there’s no long detour or hike required.

The waterfall cascades down in multiple smaller streams over dark rock, and because it’s less known than many of the South Coast waterfalls, it usually feels quiet and uncrowded. It’s not a major highlight, but it’s a nice spontaneous stop if you see it while driving.

Folaldafoss

Folaldafoss is another great quick stop in the Eastfjords, but it does require a small detour since it’s not directly on the Ring Road. The turnoff is easy, and the drive to the parking area takes about 7 minutes, so it’s really close!

You can see the waterfall from the parking area, but if you want a closer look, you can walk down toward the waterfall for better views and photos. It’s a short stop overall, but worth it if you have time.

Seyðisfjorður

The next stretch is one of the longer continuous drives of the day. There aren’t many official stops along this section, but the scenery is beautiful, with fjords, mountain passes, and winding coastal roads. Eventually, in around 2 hours, the Ring Road will bring you to Egilsstaðir, which will be your base for the night.

However, I highly recommend driving about 30 minutes further over the mountain pass to Seyðisfjörður, which is easily one of the cutest little towns in Iceland! The road itself is part of the experience, with sweeping views as you descend toward the fjord.

Seyðisfjörður is known for its colorful wooden houses and small art scene. There isn’t a lot to do here, but it’s a very charming place to walk around. Don’t miss the famous rainbow street leading up to the blue church, which has become one of the most photographed spots in eastern Iceland.

Along the way, you can also stop at Gufufoss, which sits right next to the road, or take a short walk to Fardagafoss if you want to stretch your legs before heading back to Egilsstaðir for the night.

Vok Baths

To end the day on a relaxing note, you can visit Vök Baths, located just a 5-minute drive from Egilsstaðir. It’s a really unique experience because the main infinity pools are actually floating on Lake Urriðavatn. You can even take a quick dip in the lake itself if you’re brave enough!

In addition to the floating geothermal pools, there are also hot pools, a sauna, a cold mist tunnel, a pool bar, and a restaurant, so it’s very much a full spa experience. It’s open until 11 pm in summer, which makes it an easy and relaxing way to finish this long driving day.

Overnight in Egilsstaðir

After a long day through the Eastfjords, you’ll spend the night in Egilsstaðir. It’s not the most exciting town in Iceland, but it’s a practical and comfortable base with supermarkets, gas stations, and several restaurants.

Here are some great places to stay in Egilsstaðir:

• Lagarfell Studios – Located just across the water from Egilsstaðir. This is where we stayed, and it was a really comfortable and quiet base for the night.
• Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel Egilsstadir – A well-known lakeside hotel with a restaurant and spa facilities, offering a more upscale stay in town.
• Lyngás Guesthouse – One of the cheapest options in the area. It has shared bathrooms, but it’s a good choice if you’re trying to keep costs down.

Day 7: North Iceland & Myvatn

Today you’ll drive from Egilsstaðir toward North Iceland, with around 3.5 to 4 hours of driving in total without stops.

The focus is on two major highlights: Stuðlagil Canyon and Dettifoss. Both require a bit of walking, but distances are manageable. By late afternoon, you’ll reach the Lake Mývatn area, where you’ll spend the next two nights.

Stuðlagil Canyon

If you’ve seen those epic photos of turquoise water winding between massive basalt columns, chances are they were taken at Stuðlagil Canyon. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Egilsstaðir, and it’s easily one of the most unique stops on this Iceland itinerary!

There are two main access points, and the experience is very different depending on which side you choose.

The west side is the easier option. You can park and walk down to a stairway to a viewpoint overlooking the canyon. This works well if you’re short on time and mainly want the view from above.

However, you’ll be looking down into the canyon, and the most scenic sections you usually see in photos, including the ones I’ll be sharing, are not visible from here.

If you want to actually go down into the canyon and stand next to the basalt columns, you need to choose the east side. The parking lot is smaller and fills up quickly, so I recommend going early. From the parking area, it’s about a 2.5 km hike one way to reach the canyon.

We did the east side hike, and I can highly recommend it. The trail is relatively easy, and seeing the basalt columns up close with the river running through the canyon is honestly insane. It was one of the highlights of this 10-day Iceland itinerary for us!

Dettifoss

Dettifoss is often described as Europe’s most powerful waterfall, and once you see it in person, that makes complete sense. The force of the water is unreal!

There are two different access points, and the experience varies depending on which side you choose.

The west side is the easier and more popular option. It’s about 1.5 hours from Stuðlagil Canyon, the roads are fully paved and well signposted, so it’s hard to miss. From the parking lot, it’s a short walk to dedicated observation decks where you get a full frontal view of the waterfall.

The scale and power from this angle are insane. You can also walk about 10 minutes upstream to visit Selfoss, a wide and impressive waterfall that’s absolutely worth adding while you’re there.

The east side is more challenging to reach. The road is dirt, which makes the drive closer to 2 hours from Stuðlagil. This side feels wilder and more remote, and you can get much closer to the waterfall itself.

We visited the west side on our first trip, and I really wanted to see the east side on the next, but we had time limitations and ended up doing the west side again. If you only have time for one, the west side is easier and still incredibly impressive.

Earth Lagoon Myvatn

After visiting Dettifoss, continue toward the Lake Mývatn area, where you’ll spend the next two nights. This region is packed with volcanic landscapes and geothermal features, but I actually recommend keeping most of the sightseeing for tomorrow.

Instead, use this afternoon to slow down and relax a bit. The previous days have been quite full, and this is a perfect moment in your Iceland itinerary to recharge!

Mývatn Nature Baths, also known as Earth Lagoon, is located right by Lake Mývatn. It’s often compared to the Blue Lagoon, but it feels more relaxed and less commercial.

The milky blue geothermal water, steam rising from the surrounding lava fields, and views over the landscape make it a really special place to unwind. There’s a large main pool, hot tubs, a steam bath, and a swim-up bar.

Just like the other lagoons in Iceland, you’ll need to book a specific timeslot in advance. This is a great way to end the day before diving into the full Mývatn loop tomorrow!

Overnight in Myvatn

You’ll spend the next two nights around Lake Mývatn, which gives you a much more relaxed pace compared to the previous days. Instead of constantly packing and moving, you can properly explore the area without rushing.

Accommodation here is spread out around the lake rather than concentrated in one central town, but since you’ll have a rental car, everything is within a short drive.

Here are some great places to stay in Mývatn:

• Fosshotel Mývatn – A modern lakeside hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows and a great on-site restaurant. One of the most popular upscale options in the area.
• Hótel Laxá – This is where we stayed, and I can highly recommend it. Comfortable rooms, a good restaurant, and a great location near many of the main sights.
• Dimmuborgir Guesthouse – A solid budget-friendly option close to the Dimmuborgir lava fields, with simple but cozy rooms.

Day 8: Whale Watching & Lake Myvatn

Today is much more relaxed compared to the previous days. Since you’re staying two nights in the Lake Mývatn area, you can explore without packing up in the morning.

The plan is whale watching in the morning, then visiting Goðafoss on the way back, and spending the rest of the afternoon exploring the volcanic landscapes around Lake Mývatn. Driving time is manageable today, around 2 to 3 hours, depending on where you go for whale watching.

Whale Watching

One of the most popular experiences in North Iceland is whale watching, and this is the perfect morning to do it!

You have two main options. The most famous departure point is Húsavík, often called the whale watching capital of Iceland. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Lake Mývatn, and tours here have a very high success rate, especially for humpback whales.

The other option is booking a tour from Akureyri, which is also about 1 hour away. Tours here also regularly spot humpbacks, and the scenery of Eyjafjörður fjord is beautiful.

We chose to book a whale watching tour from Húsavík and absolutely loved the experience! We saw whales during the tour (they came pretty close to us, which was awesome) and even dolphins on the way back to the harbor.

They provide protective outer clothing that you can wear on top of your own layers, which makes a big difference since it can get windy and cold out on the water. It was honestly such a good experience and one of our favorite activities on this Iceland road trip itinerary.

Goðafoss

Goðafoss is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Iceland and an easy addition to today’s plan.

If you’re coming back from Akureyri, it’s directly on the route toward Lake Mývatn. If you’re returning from Húsavík, it only requires a small detour, so it’s still very easy to fit into the day.

The waterfall forms a wide, curved cascade that almost looks like a horseshoe. There are parking areas on both sides of the river, and short walking paths lead you to several viewpoints. It doesn’t require much time, but it’s definitely worth stopping for!

Lake Myvatn Area

Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the area around Lake Mývatn. The distances between sights are short, so it’s easy to see quite a bit without feeling rushed.

One of the main highlights is Dimmuborgir, a lava field filled with strange rock formations and short walking trails. It’s an easy stop and doesn’t require a big hike unless you want to explore deeper.

Nearby, you’ll find Hverir, a geothermal area with bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and bright orange and yellow earth tones. It feels almost like walking on another planet.

You can also drive up to Hverfjall, a massive crater that you can hike around for panoramic views over the lake. The climb is short but steep.

Depending on how much energy you have left, you can mix and match these stops. Everything is within a short drive, which makes this part of your Iceland road trip feel much more relaxed compared to earlier days.

Day 9: North Iceland to Snæfellsnes

This is the longest driving day of the entire Iceland road trip. The distance between Lake Mývatn and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is around 6 hours of driving without any stops.

If you’d rather keep it simple and just get from point A to point B, that’s completely understandable. That said, I’ve included two optional stops along the way.

One is almost directly on the route and very easy to add, while the other requires a longer detour of about 45 minutes. You can decide based on your energy level and how early you start the day.

Grafarkirkja & Hofsos

If you’re up for a small detour to break up the long drive, this stop requires about 20 to 25 minutes one way from the Ring Road, so roughly 45 minutes round-trip in total.

The first place you’ll reach along this route is Grafarkirkja, one of the oldest turf churches in Iceland. It’s a very quick stop, but the traditional grass roof and quiet rural setting make it a lovely photo opportunity.

A few minutes further along the road is Hofsós, a small fishing village overlooking Skagafjörður fjord. Most people know it for Hofsós Sundlaug, the infinity pool with panoramic fjord views. Since this is the longest driving day of the trip, you likely won’t have much time to properly enjoy a swim, but it’s still worth seeing from above.

What I personally loved most about Hofsós were the Staðarbjörg basalt columns along the shoreline. They look really cool and are much less talked about, which makes the stop feel a bit more unique than just the swimming pool.

If you’re tired or running behind schedule, this detour is easy to skip, and you can stay on the Ring Road instead.

Kolugljufur Canyon

Back on the Ring Road, another easy stop to break up the drive is Kolugljúfur Canyon. This one is almost directly on the route, so it doesn’t require any real detour.

A short walk from the parking area brings you to viewpoints overlooking the canyon, where the river cuts through dark basalt rock. There are multiple small waterfalls along the gorge, which makes it feel more dramatic than you might expect from a quick roadside stop.

It doesn’t require much time, maybe 15 to 20 minutes, but it’s a great way to stretch your legs before continuing the long drive toward Snæfellsnes.

Kirkjufellsfoss

By the time you reach Kirkjufellsfoss, you’ve officially arrived on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula!

This is one of the most iconic views in Iceland: the small cascading waterfall in the foreground and the perfectly shaped Kirkjufell mountain rising behind it. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Iceland and was even featured in Game of Thrones.

The parking lot is right by the waterfall, and within just a few minutes of walking, you’ll get that classic view. If you arrive around sunset, the light here can be beautiful, especially on a clear day. But if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can come back the next morning because I recommend staying nearby anyway!

Overnight on Snæfellsnes

After the longest driving day of this Iceland itinerary, you’ll finally settle in on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Ideally, you’ll spend the next two nights here, which gives you enough time to explore properly without feeling rushed.

However, this assumes you have a separate departure day. If you need to be back in Reykjavík on the night of Day 10, you can shorten this to just one night and drive back after exploring.

Here are some great places to stay on Snæfellsnes:

• Kirkjufell Guesthouse and Apartments – A comfortable option in Grundarfjörður with views toward Kirkjufell. Great location if you want to be close to Kirkjufellsfoss for sunrise or sunset.
• Hotel Langaholt – Located near the coast with wide open views and a peaceful setting. A good mid-range option if you prefer something quieter.
• Hotel Búdir – A well-known boutique hotel near the famous black church of Búdir. More upscale and romantic, with a very scenic location.

Day 10: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Today is all about exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in miniature” because it has a bit of everything: waterfalls, lava fields, black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and even a glacier-capped volcano.

Since you’re staying here overnight, you can explore at a relaxed pace without worrying about long driving distances. Most of the highlights are located along the main loop road, and distances between stops are short.

If you have a separate departure day, you can take your time and fully enjoy Snæfellsnes. If you need to return to Reykjavík tonight, you’ll want to prioritize your favorite stops and start heading back in the late afternoon, since the drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Start your loop along the north coast with a few quick but photogenic stops. Ólafsvíkurkirkja stands out with its modern triangular design set against the mountains. Not far from here, you can walk to Svöðufoss and Kerlingarfoss, both quieter waterfalls that don’t require much effort to visit.

If you’re here in June or July, don’t skip Ingjaldshóll Church, especially when the lupin fields are in bloom around it. It’s truly beautiful!

Continuing west, you’ll reach Saxhóll Crater, where a staircase leads you to the top for panoramic views over lava fields and the coastline.

Nearby, you can join a guided tour of Vatnshellir Lava Cave if you want to explore beneath the surface. The tour is only 45 minutes long, so it won’t take up much of your time.

A short drive further brings you to Lóndrangar, dramatic basalt sea stacks rising straight out of the ocean.

On the southern side of the peninsula, Arnarstapi is perfect for a coastal walk with views of cliffs and rock arches, while Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge offers a narrow canyon you can step inside if you don’t mind getting a little wet.

As you continue east, you’ll pass Búðakirkja, the famous black church set against open lava fields, and Bjarnarfoss cascading down the hillside nearby.

If you still have time, I recommend stopping by Ytri Tunga beach before wrapping up your day. The beach is known for its seal colony, and it’s one of the most reliable places in Iceland to see them from land.

If you have a full day here and the next morning free before departure, you can realistically visit most of these stops without rushing too much.

However, if you need to drive back to Reykjavík in the evening, I recommend prioritizing the places that interest you most and skipping the rest. Snæfellsnes is very flexible, so it’s easy to adjust the day based on your schedule and energy level.

And just like that, your 10 days in Iceland come to an end! After exploring waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic landscapes, fjords, and black sand beaches, all that’s left is the drive back to Reykjavík or Keflavík Airport.

If you’re flying out today, make sure to allow enough time for the 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Snæfellsnes, plus returning your rental car. And if your flight is later in the day, you could always squeeze in one final stop along the way before heading home.