Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast & Westman Islands: Best Itinerary Ideas

How many days do you need in Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, South Coast & Westman Islands?

• Most travelers spend 6-7 days in Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Westman Islands combined
• Visiting Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Westman Islands in 5 days is possible, but it will feel rushed
• With 8 or more days, most travelers choose to add more stops to their trip
• The most common extensions are Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, and Reykjanes Peninsula

How Many Days to Spend in Iceland

Recommended Itineraries for Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast & Westman Islands

Recommended Itinerary for 6 Days

Explore the Golden Circle on this well-balanced, self-drive itinerary featuring both popular stops and hidden gems. First, drive to Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, followed by a relaxing soak in the Secret Lagoon. Next, head to the South Coast to stunning waterfalls—Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss—and visits to Reynisfjara Beach, Vík, and the otherworldly Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. Then, explore the glacial areas of Skaftafell, Svartifoss, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, followed by a day to discover the lesser-known Westman Islands. Return to Reykjavík for some sightseeing and tour the Reykjanes Peninsula—plus a stop for a final soak in the Blue Lagoon—before your departure flight home. Read more

Recommended Itinerary for 1 Week

Visit several scenic areas on this weeklong trip to Iceland. Encounter stunning waterfalls, geothermal areas, black-sand beaches, glaciers, and more in the Golden Circle and South Coast. Venture to the local gem, the Westman Islands, to enjoy the historic beach tours (there's an active puffin colony in the summer months). Then, embark on an incredible hiking journey through the valleys and peaks of Thórsmörk before returning to Reykjavík for some enjoyment in the capital city. Read more

Extended Itineraries

8-Day Itinerary Including Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Enjoy four scenic regions of Iceland in just over one week. Upon arrival, head to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to take in your first glimpses of the lava formations, black-sand beaches, and waterfalls that make this region famous. Travel the Golden Circle to discover the tectonic plates meeting, geothermal wonders, and a warm lagoon soak. Ferry to the lesser-known-yet-stunning Westman Islands to visit the sea caves, cliffs, a decorated puffin colony, and more—by boat and foot—followed by additional waterfalls, beaches, and incredible arches and cliffs along the South Coast. Venture into the heart of several glaciers and their accompanying lagoons. Tour Reykjavík and make a few final stops in the Reykjanes Peninsula to close out the trip. Read more

12-Day Itinerary Including Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn & Laugarbakki

Make a complete circle of Iceland, plus explore the Westman Islands, on this 12-day self-drive itinerary that takes in a vast wealth of geological wonders, exciting activities, and cultural highlights. From whale watching, snorkeling the Silfra fissure, and a boat journey on the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon to soaks in the Mývatn Nature Baths and Blue Lagoon, you'll experience Iceland in all its facets, north, south, east, and west. Read more

How to travel between Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, South Coast & Westman Islands

How to get to the South Coast of Iceland
The South Coast of Iceland, spanning from just outside the capital city of Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón, is easily drivable along the Ring Road (Route 1). The beginning of the route is easily accessible from both the international airport in Keflavík and the domestic airport in Reykjavík, or via downtown Reykjavík, with a 45-minute drive. Read more

How to get to the Westman Islands
Vestmannaeyjar, or the Westman Islands, is an archipelago off Iceland's south coast known for wildlife like whales, seals, and puffins. Of the 16 islands in the chain, only the main island of Heimaey is inhabited. Read more