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Introducing Iceland

When is the best time to visit?
Choosing the right time to visit Iceland depends on what you would like to see and do. To see the Northern Lights, visit in winter—and thus brave ultra-short days and brisk weather. If your goal is to hike, road trip, and otherwise explore outdoors, the best times are late spring and early fall. Summer months bring great weather and long days, but also attract big tourist crowds. Learn more

Where should I go in Iceland?
Iceland has much more to offer than the popular (and crowded) Golden Circle and South Coast areas. We highly recommend exploring Iceland’s remote regions such as Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Westfjords, Lake Myvatn, and the East Fjords. See our recommended tours & itineraries to get ideas on how to plan your trip to Iceland. Learn more

How many days do I need?
You can have an epic Iceland experience when you spend at least 5 days. Shorter trips are possible but won’t give you enough time to explore beyond the Reykjavik area and the western section of the South Coast. With 8 days or more, you can complete the famous Ring Road and see sights that most tourists miss, like Godafoss Waterfall, the unique volcanic hotspots surrounding Lake Myvatn, and the Westfjords. Learn more

Getting around in Iceland
Most travelers drive themselves in Iceland during the summer season (Mid-April to November), and some opt for small group or guided tours during the winter season when weather, wind, and limited daylight can make driving more difficult. The Ring Road is Iceland's iconic multi-day road trip (typically 7-10 days), with many opportunities to extend further to more remote areas such as the highlands, the Westfjords, and northern coast. Learn more

Looking for inspiration? See our top Iceland itineraries

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Iceland Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Entering Goðaland (the "Land of Gods") during the descent to Thórsmörk
Map of Fimmvörðuháls Hike - The Ultimate Guide to one of Iceland's Best Day Hikes
Fimmvörðuháls Hike - The Ultimate Guide to one of Iceland's Best Day Hikes

If you’re looking for a great one-day hike that combines the best of Iceland into a single trek, this is it. The Fimmvörðuháls trail takes you through some of the most dramatic scenery Iceland has to offer, from a series of canyon waterfalls to a volcanic moonscape. Keep in mind, this day-hike is as long as it is rewarding.

Explore Iceland on a road trip of a lifetime
Map of 2-Week Ring Road Self-Drive Itinerary: Highlights of Iceland & the Remote Westfjords
2-Week Ring Road Self-Drive Itinerary: Highlights of Iceland & the Remote Westfjords

With two weeks in Iceland, you can complete the entire Ring Road and add incredible detours. This grand tour will take you to all the best places giving you plenty of time to hike, explore, and soak it all in. This 14-day itinerary covers all the major regions except the highlands, which you can see with a couple more days or by spending less time in some of the areas below.

Walk behind Seljalandsfoss on the South Coast
Map of 3 Days in Iceland: Blue Lagoon, South Coast, Reykjavik - 3-day itinerary
3 Days in Iceland: Blue Lagoon, South Coast, Reykjavik - 3-day itinerary

If you are short on time, or perhaps you are looking for an extended layover on your way from Europe to North America or vice versa, your options in Iceland are limited to closer to Reykjavik. Here is a 3-day itinerary that will still let you experience some of the spectacular beauty of Iceland.

Godafoss waterfall in northern Iceland
Map of Iceland Relaxed Ring Road Adventure - 10 Days
Iceland Relaxed Ring Road Adventure - 10 Days

10 days on the road in Iceland is enough time to discover its highlights and off-the-beaten-path wonders. Loop around the famous Route 1 (Ring Road) on a relaxed self-drive adventure, stopping at big cities, active volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, dried lava fields, black beaches, quaint fishing towns, massive glaciers, and the star landmarks along the famed Golden Circle. It's guaranteed to be a gorgeous ride.

Make the Most of Your Time in Iceland

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Reykjavík, Iceland
How Many Days to Spend in Iceland

You can have an epic Iceland experience when you spend five days or more in Iceland. Shorter trips are possible but won't give you enough time to explore beyond the Reykjavík...

Iceland Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Midnight sun setting on Mt. Kirkjufell
Best Time of Year To Visit Iceland

Given the rapidly increasing popularity of Iceland as travel destination, the question "When is the best time of year to go to Iceland?" has become as much about taking into...

Gullfoss Falls - Iceland's second largest waterfall
5 Best Things to Do in Iceland

Dubbed the Land of Ice and Fire, Iceland is a delight for all of your senses, from the deep chill of the air to the smoky smell of the volcanoes to the sights and sounds of the...

Skogafoss waterfall, Iceland
How Kimkim Trips Works in Iceland

Travelers love Iceland for its wild landscapes, Reykjavik's cultural charms, and the seasonal magic of the Northern Lights. Work with a kimkim travel specialist to experience it...

Iceland Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
A view over Glymur Falls
Guide to Hiking Glymur Falls

The trail to the majestic Glymur Waterfall offers all kinds of challenges - but the stunning views from the top are well worth the adventure. Get to the trailhead prepared for...

How to Tour the Golden Circle Like a Local
How to Tour the Golden Circle Like a Local

It's no secret that Iceland is drawing more and more visitors every year. If you're joining the ranks, skip the crowds at the most popular Golden Circle attractions and visit...

Iceland Destination Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country

Iceland Travel Interviews

Get inspired by reading about experiences by travelers like you

Iceland Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Berjaya  Hotel Myvatn
Lake Mývatn
Berjaya Hotel Myvatn
4.8
(12)
· Comfort
Berjaya Mývatn Hotel is a modern retreat on Lake Mývatn, just a 5-minute drive from the Mývatn Nature Baths. The nearby village of Reykjahlíð is two minutes away by car or eight by foot. Hike to the impressive crater of Hverfjall in an hour and a half, or drive there in 10 minutes. Dimmuborgir is...
Photo courtesy of Glacier View Guesthouse - Hrífunes
Vatnajökull National Park
Glacier View Guesthouse - Hrífunes
5.0
(7)
· Mid-range
Glacier View Guesthouse in Hrífunes is a warm, family-run hotel in a remote location between two glaciers. Located a 3-hour drive from Reykjavík just off the Ring Road, the hotel offers access to some of the South Coast's most interesting attractions. The waterfall of Stjórnarfoss and the...
Northern Lights by Stefan Liebermann
Golden Circle
Hotel Rangá
5.0
(7)
· Comfort
Set in Hella, Hotel Rangá offers an opportunity to experience Iceland's natural beauty and remarkable landscapes. You'll find the Hella Golf Course, Lava Centre, and the renowned Saga Centre within a short drive. The hotel's prime location also allows for easy access to the Golden Circle,...

Best Experiences in Iceland

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Egilsstadir
The Geothermal Vök Baths
4.9
(17)
Small group
Set in East Iceland near the town of Egilsstaðir are the Vök Baths. If you're spending time in the East Fjords region, this hot spring is an excellent stopping point for a little rest and relaxation. Plus, it's unique compared to other thermal baths in the country, as the facility offers serene...
 Courtesy of Sky Lagoon
Reykjavík
Iceland Thermal Bath Experience
4.9
(12)
Self guided
Immerse yourself in Iceland's natural thermal baths at Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa with an infinity pool that offers stunning ocean views and the chance to witness the mesmerizing northern lights. You can elevate your experience with a seven-step ritual that includes a refreshing cold bath and...
Jökulsárlón
Blue Ice Cave Tour
4.9
(14)
3 hours
·
Small group
Walking through the electric-blue ice cave of the Vatnajökull glacier is an experience you won't soon forget! The tour begins after meeting your expert and friendly guides at the parking lot of Jökulsárlón, about 2.5 hours east of Vik along the Ring Road. Your guide will take you by Jeep up the...

Our Latest Iceland Content

Spot Atlantic puffins in Iceland's Westfjords
Map of Iceland's Wild West & Arctic North Road Trip - 16 Days
Iceland's Wild West & Arctic North Road Trip - 16 Days

There's no road trip experience on earth like driving around Iceland's volcanic landscapes, thundering waterfalls, and frozen frontiers. This 16-day drive begins on the west side, where you'll travel up the coast to the waterfalls and volcanoes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the fjords and soaring mountains around Ísafjörður. That's just an appetizer for the adventures that await in Iceland's far north, which range from snorkeling and whale watching to whitewater rafting and soaking in a "beer bath."

This ultimate Iceland road trip includes pristine wilderness and historic hubs like Akureyri
Map of Self-Drive Highlights of Iceland's Ring Road - 16 Days
Self-Drive Highlights of Iceland's Ring Road - 16 Days

Iceland is famous for its scenery, and it's only while road-tripping down the famous Route 1 (Ring Road) that you can fully appreciate the "land of fire and ice." This self-drive adventure takes you on an epic journey around the country's iconic waterfalls, sea cliffs, glaciers, and lava fields as you follow famous circuit routes like the Golden Circle. Other highlights include stops at the scenic Eastfjords, soaks in geothermal springs, whale watching, hiking rugged sea cliffs, and more.

Check off some of Iceland's most iconic natural landmarks, like the mighty falls at Gullfoss
Map of  Iceland Nature, Hiking & Highlights - 16 Days
Iceland Nature, Hiking & Highlights - 16 Days

Venture into the wild in a wonderland forged by volcanoes and ice at the top of the world. This 16-day trip to Iceland will take you around the country's western and southern coasts by car and on foot as you explore thundering waterfalls, rugged coastal cliffs, glaciers, hot springs, and more. But multiday nature hikes and scenic drives are only part of the adventure—you'll also enjoy thrilling activities like whale watching, kayaking on fjords, zipline tours, and hiking up snowcapped volcanoes.

Iceland Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map Where To Go in Iceland: the Best Sights and Activities Region by Region
Where To Go in Iceland: the Best Sights and Activities Region by Region
View article
Map Explore Iceland in 5 days - Seven Optimized Itineraries to help you make the most of your Short Trip to Iceland
Explore Iceland in 5 days - Seven Optimized Itineraries to help you make the most of your Short Trip to Iceland
View article
Map 7 Days in Iceland - 4 Unique Road Trip Itineraries
7 Days in Iceland - 4 Unique Road Trip Itineraries
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Iceland
Travel specialist Preeti Bhide
active 5 hours ago

Preeti Bhide

Travel is an experience that enriches our lives and is essential for all of us to grow as individuals. Personally, I love my holidays to be slower paced with time to stop and smell the flowers;...

read more...
Travel specialist Emanuela Grieco
active 7 hours ago

Emanuela Grieco

I am an Italian Travel Designer mostly based in Iceland. Traveling has been my passion since I was young, being always fascinated by other cultures and people. In 2005, after living and...

read more...
Travel specialist Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
active 3 hours ago

Guðmundur Óli Pálmason

Born in Reykjavík, Iceland in 1978, from a young age I was already travelling all over Iceland with my parents. After a short stint as a driver guide on modified suv's in 2004, I pursued a career...

read more...
Travel specialist Èric Domínguez
active 15 hours ago

Èric Domínguez

A while ago I was lucky enough to get a job in Iceland, and I must admit, I was completely unaware of what was ahead of me when I first set foot in the country. Working in the tourism industry...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Iceland also visit these destinations

Why travelers love kimkim

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Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
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Trip Reviews for Iceland

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Iceland Summer 2024
Iceland | Jul 19 - Jul 23, 2024

Kyra
Kyra B.
McMinnville, OR | Reviewed on Jul 26, 2024
Our trip to Iceland was amazing! Eric planned some great adventures for my husband and I! There was a good balance between time to relax and time to go sightseeing. All of the suggestions of places to see and how to navigate the island were great! Read more

Our trip to Iceland was amazing! Eric planned some great adventures for my husband and I! There was a good balance between time to relax and time to go sightseeing. All of the suggestions of places to see and how to navigate the island were great!

Activity Review
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Iceland

This was our favorite activity of the trip! Our hike guide was extremely knowledgable and we learned a lot about the glaciers of Iceland.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Èric Domínguez

Mauricio's Trip to Iceland - Classic Highlights with the Westman Islands
Iceland | Jul 15 - Jul 22, 2024

M
Mauricio B.
| Reviewed on Jul 23, 2024

I am very grateful to Adam. Everything was perfect and I would gladly recommend it because of how well the trip was.

Local specialist: Adam Warszawski
Adam
Adam Warszawski
Local specialist in Poland | Replied on Jul 23, 2024

Thanks for your review Mauricio. It was a pleasure to cooperate with you, I hope you'll come back to Iceland one day!

Adam

Duncan did a fantastic job laying out our vac...
Iceland | Jun 29 - Jul 6, 2024

Brett
Brett K.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jul 21, 2024
Duncan did a fantastic job laying out our vacation! Gave him some hints of what we wanted & didn't want to see and accomplish and a taste of places that would be fun to stay to help him understand our family goals. Nicely done! We spent most of our time in the country areas, which we couldn't have been happier -- got us out of most of the tourist areas. Our itinerary had interest places marked to stop which was really nice. The first place we stayed, Hótel Varmaland, the restaurant's... Read more

Duncan did a fantastic job laying out our vacation! Gave him some hints of what we wanted & didn't want to see and accomplish and a taste of places that would be fun to stay to help him understand our family goals. Nicely done! We spent most of our time in the country areas, which we couldn't have been happier -- got us out of most of the tourist areas. Our itinerary had interest places marked to stop which was really nice. The first place we stayed, Hótel Varmaland, the restaurant's food was amazing! Our daughter had the Ribeye and said it was the best steak she has ever had. Our son got the lamb - out of this world -- nothing like the lamb in the States; we ate a lot of lamb during the trip. We had the pork chops -- some of the best we have had - food all came from local farms and it showed -- just fantastic! Iceland is an amazing place and highly recommend a visit -- Duncan made the trip very easy with way-points to stop and things to explore. Highly recommend the ice cave & glacial tours too.

Hotel Reviews
Arnarstapi Hotel
Snæfellsbær

Very quiet location. Noting majorly remarkable -- just a nice pleasant stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Blue Hotel Fagrilundur
Bláskógabyggd

Interesting self check in and out -- really liked it. Rooms were nice and two good restaurants near by. Very quite. Had hot tubs to relax in after the long day too.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fosshotel Nupar
Kálfafell

This was the least updated of hotel stays; however, very nice for ease of food and nice staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Skuggi Hotel Reykjavík by Keahotels
Reykjavík

Nice hotel and good location a few blocks away from Rainbow street and the shops. Very clean and helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Varmaland
Borgarnes

Hotel is freshly refurbished so everything was new and clean. The food at this Hotel is fantastic!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The waiter for our evening was actually the Chef -- he was great to talk to and had excellent recommendations
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 21, 2024

Thanks so much for the great review, Brett, and most importantly, I'm thrilled that you had an amazing trip. I appreciate the detailed feedback on the hotels, and glad to see that Varmaland is maintaining its high standards.
Duncan