The Perfect Itinerary for 7 Days in Iceland

Planning seven days in Iceland? Good for you! A week is an ideal length of time to get to know the country and to see the many natural wonders and cultural highlights it offers.

Here, we share the perfect seven-day itinerary for Iceland. We recommend you travel the Ring Road, the circular highway that travels around the entire country. It’s the perfect Iceland road trip, but there’s a lot to see and do. Here, we’ll show you what’s unmissable.

If you want to travel around Iceland independently, you’ll need to hire a car. Find out about renting a car in Iceland.

How to use this seven-day Iceland itinerary guide

No two trips to Iceland are the same—and that is the beauty of travel. Everyone is inspired by something different and will come to Iceland with different ideas about what they want to see and do.

So, if you’re searching for an Iceland itinerary, you’ll find many different options out there. In this guide, we’re assuming the following:

• You’re travelling by car. By far the best way to explore the country is with an Iceland car hire. It gives you the freedom to move at your own pace, stop wherever you want, and travel in comfort and style.

You can pick up a vehicle from Höldur directly at Keflavík International Airport, or in downtown Reykjavík. Either way, you’ll find renting with Höldur is convenient and flexible, as we have the largest fleet of rental vehicles in Iceland.

• You have seven full days in Iceland. Our seven-day itinerary is for seven entire days in the country. This is the ideal minimum time to explore Iceland’s Ring Road. If you have less time than this, you may be a little rushed. Check out our five-day Iceland itinerary for a shorter alternative.

In this itinerary, you’ll only have a single day in Reykjavík. If you want additional time, come the day before.

• You’re looking for inspiration for your trip, but you want some flexibility. We’re not here to tell you exactly what to do and when. Instead, we’ll give you some suggestions, but it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to fit everything in. That’s particularly true in winter when the days are short and it gets dark early.

Instead, pick what you like, skip ideas that aren’t for you, and feel free to discover your own spots along the way.

Now, without further ado, here’s your seven-day itinerary.

Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavík

No matter where you’re coming from, you’ll arrive in Iceland at Keflavík International Airport. So, it makes sense to spend your first day in Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital city, which is close by.

While you have the full day to explore, you won’t be able to fit in everything that the city has to offer. But some of the highlights include:

• Hallgrímskirkja. Perhaps the most recognisable building in the whole country, Hallgrímskirkja is a church inspired by the forms of the waterfall, Svartifoss. Climb the stairs to the top of the tower for unmatched views over the city.
  
  

• Harpa. The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is a glittering geometric form in Reykjavík’s old harbour. Step inside to experience the mesmerising effects of the glass facade, or book a ticket for a show.
  
  

• Sun Voyager. A short distance from Harpa is the graceful sculpture that hails to the sun. It was placed on the waterfront in 1990 to symbolise hope, freedom, and progress.
  
  

• Perlan. Learn everything you need to know about Icelandic nature and science before you head off on your trip around the country. At Perlan, you can discover exhibitions on Iceland’s seas and cliffs, the northern lights, recent volcanic eruptions, and much more.
  
  

• A geothermal spa. Some of Iceland’s best-known spas are in the Reykjavík area. Visit the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon to relax before heading off for your adventure.

You’ll find that Reykjavík has many dining options to choose from for your evening meal. For an essential Icelandic experience, we’d recommend you visit Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur to try an authentic local hotdog. But there’s something to satisfy every taste.

For instance, try Sæta Svínið for gastropub classics, Fiskfélagið for fresh fish, or Ramen Momo for something different. You can also visit food halls such as Grandi Mathöll, Hlemmur Mathöll, or Pósthús for international fare.

Day 2: The Golden Circle

Distance covered: 230 km (140 miles)

On your second day in Iceland, drive out to the Golden Circle. On what is one of Iceland’s most iconic short itineraries, the Golden Circle boasts some of the top sights in the south of the country.

The three key Golden Circle attractions are:

• Þingvellir National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is the perfect blend of astonishing scenery and fascinating local history. Here, you can discover the original site of Iceland’s viking parliament and walk between two continents through the rift valley that cuts through the park.
  
  

• Geysir geothermal area. Geysir is an area of impressive geothermal activity, including fumaroles, volcanic mudpots, and geysers. While the Great Geysir that gave this phenomenon its name is no longer active, you can still see Strokkur, which fires boiling water up to 40 metres into the air.
  
  

• Gullfoss. Gullfoss is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe, as the river here is funnelled through a tight, dramatic ravine. It’s a breathtaking sight.

To cover the three main sights of the Golden Circle, you’ll need to drive 230 kilometres (140 miles), which typically takes about three hours. How long you’ll need for your entire day out will obviously depend on how much time you spend in each place.

We’d recommend you don’t rush, though. At Þingvellir, for instance, take the time for a unique adventure, such as snorkelling between tectonic plates at Silfra. Or add an extra stop on your itinerary and visit Laugarvatn Fontana, a state of the art spa.

In the evening, return to Reykjavík, before kicking off your Ring Road tour the following day.

• Related: Driving Iceland’s Golden Circle: Your ultimate guide

Day 3: The South Coast (part 1): Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Vík

Distance covered: 190 km (120 miles)

Your third day in Iceland is when you’ll launch your proper Ring Road adventure. You’ll set out from the capital, Reykjavík, and spend the night tonight in Vík í Mýrdal, a village about halfway along Iceland’s south coast.

Along the way, you can visit sights including:

• Seljalandsfoss. While it might not be the biggest or the most powerful, Seljalandsfoss is certainly one of the most enchanting of Iceland’s waterfalls. Hike up to this elegant curtain of water and walk into the cave behind.
  
  

• Skógafoss. A few kilometres further along the coast, Skógafoss is a jaw-dropping torrent of water falling 60 metres down a sheer cliff. Due to the amount of spray it kicks up, there’s frequently a rainbow here.
  
  

• Reynisfjara. Iceland’s most spectacular black-sand beach, Reynisfjara boasts rugged sea stacks, geometric basalt columns, and high cliffs. Watch out for sneaker waves, though, which can take you by surprise. Don’t turn your back to the sea!
  
  

• Dyrhólaey. Close to Reynisfjara is the atmospheric peninsula known as Dyrhólaey. Look out for the arch rock formation among the astonishing coastal views.

Head to Vík for a place to stay. It’s a bustling travel hub with many accommodation and dining options. Plus, it has fun things to see and do too. For instance, if you have time, try the Vík zipline, or visit the Lava Show to see real lava in a controlled environment.

• Related: South Iceland: A complete guide

Day 4: The South Coast (part 2): Fjaðrárgljúfur, Skaftafell, Jökulsárlón

Distance covered: 270 km (170 miles)

On your fourth day, you’re halfway through your Icelandic road trip. Today, you’ll cover a long distance, from Vík to the fishing town of Höfn. However, it’s an exceptionally scenic leg of your trip, passing glaciers, snow-capped volcanoes, and much more.

Some of the key sights to see include:

• Fjaðrárgljúfur. Just outside the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, you’ll find Fjaðrárgljúfur. It’s a dramatic canyon with unique rock formations carved by a winding river. You can hike along the canyon for two kilometres, or just take photos of its miraculous forms.
  
  

• Skaftafell. Once a national park in its own right, Skaftafell is now part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park. Alongside its breathtaking glaciers and volcanic landforms, it has some of the lushest vegetation in Iceland—as well as some incredible hiking opportunities. Head up to Svartifoss waterfall for views of this geological wonder.
  
  

• Jökulsárlón. One of the jewels in Iceland’s crown, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is something you need to see. It’s a vast lake scattered with icebergs that have broken off the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Look out for the seals too!
  
  

• Diamond Beach. Just a stone’s throw from Jökulsárlón, the Diamond Beach is another black-sand beach. What makes it special is that it’s littered with melting icebergs, which look like diamonds as they wait to be washed away by the sea.

Drive on to Höfn to stay in this bustling fishing town. It’s the ideal hub to explore the southeast of the country. Try Pakkhús Restaurant on the harbour for seafood, sandwiches, and more.

Day 5: The East Fjords

Distance covered: 250 km (155 miles) or longer

Explore the dramatic, undulating terrain of the East Fjords, Iceland’s far east. Today, the drive is a real pleasure in itself, as you’ll be passing through some of the most compelling coastal scenes in the country.

If you want to reduce the distance that you drive, feel free to take the shortcut directly to Egilsstaðir, where we recommend you spend the night. That said, you’ll find plenty of accommodation options throughout the region.

Visit some of these sights as you travel throughout the region:

• Seyðisfjörður. A small fishing town and one of the most historical settlements in Iceland. Explore its colourful houses, painted streets, and iconic church.
  
  

• Borgarfjörður Eystri. Drive out further north for coastal walks and to witness the puffin colonies that make these cliffs their home in summer.
  
  

• Hallormsstaðaskógur. Just outside the town of Egilsstaðir, you’ll find Iceland’s largest forest, known as Hallormsstaðaskógur. There are many hiking trails here, including the path that takes you up to Hengifoss, the tallest of Iceland’s waterfalls.
  
  

• Vök baths. Set on the waters of the scenic Lake Urriðavatn, the Vök baths are a unique arrangement of geothermal pools, each of a different temperature. It’s a great place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

If you’re staying in Egilsstaðir, you’ll find many options for places to eat. For instance, try Lyng restaurant or the Salt Cafe and Bistro for something more casual.

• Find out more: East Iceland: A complete guide for drivers

Day 6: North Iceland

Distance covered: 250 km (155 miles)

On your penultimate day in Iceland, we recommend you leave Egilsstaðir and drive toward the “Capital of the North”, Akureyri. Along the way, you can stop at the following highlights:

• Ásbyrgi. Ásbyrgi is a horseshoe-shaped canyon that’s said to have been formed when Odin’s steed placed its foot here. Today, its steep cliffs mean that it’s protected from Iceland’s harshest weather and lush vegetation blooms here.
  
  
• Mývatn. Lake Mývatn sits at the heart of a vast volcanic landscape. Visit to explore hot springs, lava fields—including the mysterious Dimmuborgir—and the luxurious Mývatn Nature Baths.
  
  
• Dettifoss. Probably Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss is a thrilling stop. It’s truly a breathtaking natural wonder, with a massive cascade that thunders into a rugged canyon.
  
  
• Goðafoss. If you still have an appetite for more waterfalls, visit Goðafoss. It’s known for its turquoise waters and its strange horse-shoe-shaped cascade.
  
  
• Akureyri. Iceland’s largest city outside the capital region, Akureyri is a key stop in the north of the country. Visit the botanic gardens, stroll among the town’s pretty streets, and take a peek into the Akureyri Art Museum.
  
  
• Whale watching at Húsavík. Húsavík is the home of Iceland’s historic whaling industry. It’s the perfect place to take a whale watching and sea life tour. As many as 23 different species of whale have been found in Iceland’s waters.

We recommend that you stay around Akureyri, Húsavík, or Mývatn. In this region, you’ll find many accommodation options, including campsites, hostels, and hotels.

If you’re looking for a place with a bit of a buzz, head into Akureyri. Strikið, for instance, is a good diner overlooking the harbour. Or in Húsavík, you can get an authentic pizza at Pizzakofinn.

By the way, if you need any support or assistance in North Iceland, find details of our locations in the region. Or for more information, visit our guide to driving the Diamond Circle.

Day 7: Return to Reykjavík

Distance covered: 390 km (240 miles)

On your final full day in Iceland, you’ll need to return to Reykjavík. From Akureyri, the drive is approximately five hours.

So, feel free to stop at some of the many sights along the way, but it will extend your journey. Alternatively, you can take a slow morning to visit any additional sights around Akureyri, or head out directly to Reykjavík to see anything you’ve missed in the city.

If you want to stop along the way to Reykjavík, we recommend:

• Deildartunguhver. This hot spring is known for having a very high flow. However, what’s more impressive for visitors is its heat. The extremely high temperatures of the water create enormous clouds of steam.
  
  

• Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Any water-fall lovers must visit these twin cascades on the Hvitá river. While Hraunfossar is a collection of pleasant rivulets, Barnafoss is known for its darker history. Stories tell of a pair of children who died here, before their mother cursed the river forever.

Back in Reykjavík, see any sights that you might have missed and take the time to buy some final souvenirs. Laugavegur is a particularly good shopping street for local arts and crafts.

Whether you’re returning your vehicle today or tomorrow before you go to the airport, remember to refuel it first!

Driving tips for your Iceland road trip

As you’re going to be driving around Iceland, it’s important to know what to expect. Of course, you can read our complete guide to driving in Iceland for the details, but here are some key tips to bear in mind:

• Choose a vehicle that’s right for you. You’ll need a comfortable ride if you’re looking to go on a seven-day Ring Road trip. That’s true whether you’re travelling solo, you’re on a family trip, or you need space for extra gear. You can find the ideal vehicle in our fleet.
  
  

• Watch out for different road surfaces. While the Ring Road is entirely paved, some sections of minor roads are just gravel. You should always slow down when approaching a change in road surface.
  
  

• Know your speed limits. Typically, the speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved rural roads. The penalties for speeding are high, so it’s best to just stick to the rules!
  
  

• Plan around the weather. In Iceland, the weather can be very changeable. Make sure you have the right clothes for the conditions and choose your activities based on the forecast. The Icelandic Met Office is a reliable source of forecasts.

Frequently asked questions

Are seven days enough for Iceland?

A week is a good amount of time for a trip to Iceland. If you don’t have that much time, you can always follow our five-day Iceland itinerary. Or if you have longer, you can take the Ring Road more slowly and see more of the sights along the way.

For instance, check out our 10-day itinerary in Iceland.

How many days do you need in Iceland?

That depends on you! While some people come for a weekend city break in Reykjavík, others stay for a couple of weeks or more. It entirely depends on your plans and what you want to get up to.

How to spend seven days in Reykjavík, Iceland?

Most people may find a week too long to spend just in Reykjavík. However, you can use the city as a base to explore the surrounding countryside. For instance, you can take trips out to the likes of:

• The Golden Circle
• Snæfellsnes peninsula
• Reykjanes peninsula

Can you do Ring Road in seven days?

Seven days is a good length of time to spend touring Iceland’s Ring Road. It gives you enough opportunity to see the top sights without having to rush. But it also gives you the time to get off the beaten track a little bit too.

What is the best time of year for a seven-day road trip in Iceland?

Any time of year can be a good moment to tour Iceland’s Ring Road. Most international travellers will visit in summer, when the days are long and the weather is milder. However, spring, autumn, and winter are just as beautiful.

One thing to be aware of is that, in winter, snow can cause difficult driving conditions. You can check road conditions at road.is.

What are some must-see stops on a seven-day Iceland itinerary?

If you’re touring the Ring Road in seven days, some top sights include:

• The Golden Circle
• Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
• Reynisfjara black-sand beach
• Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
• Seyðisfjörður
• Lake Mývatn
• The Diamond Circle
• Akureyri

How should I pack for a seven-day trip to Iceland?

You’ll know what you want to bring with you for a week away. But what we would advise is that you prepare for cold and changeable weather. That means that sturdy shoes, a waterproof jacket, and warm layers are a must.

Are there any unique activities to consider?

Iceland offers some activities and experiences that you’ll find in few other places on Earth, including:

• Snorkelling between continents at Silfra
• Witnessing live and recent volcanic eruptions
• Riding on the unique Icelandic horses
• Getting the best chance to see whales in the world

Where can I find accommodation during the trip?

Iceland is a well-developed destination for visitors and there are many hotels and accommodation options to choose from. Most of these are in Reykjavík, but you’ll also find campsites, hotels, hostels, and self-catering around the country.

How should I prepare for driving in Iceland during a seven-day trip?

To get prepared for your Icelandic road trip, you’ll need to:

• Hire a car. You can find the perfect option for you among our fleet of over 7,000 vehicles.
• Check the weather and pack accordingly. You’ll definitely need some waterproofs and warm layers.
• Know your itinerary. Having a sense of where you’re going to go will be useful to optimise your time and make sure you don’t miss a thing.

What kind of vehicle should I rent for a seven-day trip in Iceland?

The kind of vehicle you’ll need will depend on you, what you’re planning to get up to, and who you’re travelling with.

For instance, you might benefit from an SUV if you’re travelling as a family. Or, if you’re planning to spend a lot of time on gravel roads, it could be worth hiring a 4x4.

Similarly, if you’re travelling as a couple, or you’re likely to stay in the Reykjavík area, a standard passenger car or electric vehicle can be a good fit.

Rent a vehicle in Iceland with Höldur

In this guide, we’ve shared some ideas for a seven-day itinerary in Iceland. While we don’t expect you to do everything we recommend, we hope it’s a useful tool for you to plan your trip.

When you’re preparing for a trip to Iceland, the first thing you’ll need to do is hire a rental vehicle. At Höldur, we’re the largest rental operator in Iceland, with over 7,000 vehicles in active rotation.

You’ll find our rental outlets across Iceland, at Keflavík International Airport, in downtown Reykjavík, and elsewhere across the country.

Explore our fleet to book the perfect vehicle for you.