Iceland Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Iceland

Iceland's volcanos, waterfalls, and fjords create a unique landscape that forms the ultimate playground for road trippers, hikers and anyone who appreciates epic scenery and nature. It is also one of the world's best destinations to see the Northern Lights.

Iceland's recent history tells a surprising story about its fast rise in popularity: Iceland's economic collapse during the financial crisis of 2008 created the perfect storm for its people to hunker down and join forces to rebuild its travel industry, and the subsequent 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull that grounded world air traffic for several weeks, provided an unexpected spotlight on Iceland's powerful, stunning nature. Together, these forces caused a surge in tourism, helping rebuild the Icelandic economy and earning Iceland a top spot on many travelers' bucket lists.

You'll stay warm with these tips, like this woman striking a yoga pose on top of the crashed plane at Sólheimasandur beach

How to Dress for Winter Activities in Iceland

Winter in Iceland is cold and dark (with only 4-7 hours of daylight), but beautiful—think snow-dusted lava fields, frozen waterfalls, and the glow of the northern lights above you. But to enjoy it all, you'll need to dress smartly. The key is layering: warm, weatherproof gear that keeps you dry, cozy, and ready for whatever fun outdoor activity you have planned. From glacier hikes to snowmobiling, here's how to stay comfortable while embracing chilly adventures in Iceland.

Pack right and you can hike around the hills and valleys of Landmannalaugar with comfortable ease

Ultimate Iceland Packing List

Iceland's weather is famously unpredictable, often bringing sun, rain, and wind within the same hour, which makes smart packing essential. With the right layers and a few key items, you'll be ready to explore the island's wild beauty in comfort.

Experience stylish luxury hotels on your two-week tour of Iceland (photo courtesy of The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland)

2 Weeks in Iceland - 3 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend on a luxurious trip in Iceland, you can choose between a fast-paced excursion that hits all the highlights or a more relaxed journey exploring remote gems. Opt for a complete circular route to travel in style by yacht and Super Jeep, taking in the breathtaking landscapes in ultimate comfort. Alternatively, you could focus on South Iceland, packing your days with thrilling activities. Or, venture into the Eastfjords, where you'll explore secluded villages and unwind in luxurious cabins.

Your luxury Icelandic acommodations range from glass cabins to 5-star spa resorts (photo courtesy of Panorama Glass Lodges)

10 Days in Iceland - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Iceland, you can visit at least three regions. Adrenaline-seekers will enjoy a private North Atlantic surf lesson and a snowmobile ride on the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Those eager to unwind amid Iceland's natural wonders will appreciate a Blue Lagoon spa treatment, a Hvammsvík Hot Springs soak, and a night under the stars at the Bubble Hotel. For a truly elevated experience, see Landmannalaugar's colorful rhyolite mountains and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon on a private helicopter tour.

Cover serious ground on an epic road trip around Iceland, stopping to check out the traditional turf houses of Glaumbær

16 Days in Iceland - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 16 days, experience Iceland's natural wonders, wildlife, and culture on an epic highlights tour. Active travelers can tackle a three-day Landmannalaugar trek, snorkel the Silfra fissure, and glacier hike at Vatnajökull. A whale watching cruise in Húsavík and a bird-watching tour on a traditional boat at Melrakkaey Island are a treat for wildlife enthusiasts. Foodies will enjoy sampling local seafood, bread cooked with geothermal heat, and beer made with Icelandic water on a Northern Iceland tasting tour.

Get off-the-beaten path with a luxurious tour around Iceland's remote Eastfjords

Remote Luxury in Iceland's Eastfjords: Hikes, Helicopters & Hot Springs - 14 Days

Perfect for discerning travelers looking to venture beyond the tourist trail, this two-week itinerary bookends off-the-beaten-path luxury in the remote Eastfjords with spa days outside Reykjavík and the highlights of the Golden Circle. Start with scenic flights and adventurous excursions along the southern coast before going off-grid to explore the raw beauty of the Eastfjords with a private driver. Finish things off in style with a helicopter trip back to the capital and an afternoon of pampering at the Blue Lagoon.

Take to the skies with an exhilarating flight across the south coast

Adrenaline-Filled Luxury in South Iceland - 14 Days

South Iceland is home to some of the country's most iconic scenery, and with the expertise of a private driver throughout, this adventurous two-week itinerary helps you navigate the gems in luxury. You'll start with the highlights of the Golden Circle, then brave the off-the-beaten-track glaciers that make up the Vatnajökull National Park. When you've had your fill of adrenaline sports like paragliding, ice climbing, and glacier kayaking, ease into the geothermal waters at the Blue Lagoon's 5-star retreat.

Unwind in your private lodge, complete with a private chef, hot tub, and helipad (photo courtesy of Eldar Lodge)

Luxe Yacht & Super Jeep Odyssey Around Iceland - 14 Days

Bring your perfect Icelandic vacation to life with this deluxe two-week odyssey that hits all the country's highlights by land and sea. You'll spend your first week aboard a luxury chartered yacht sailing around the west coast with kayaking and hiking excursions around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords. Then, with your driver and Super Jeep, spend a week discovering waterfalls, canyons, hot springs, glaciers, and beaches as you make your way south toward the famed Golden Circle.

Start and end your vacation at two of Iceland's most coveted spas (photo courtesy of Sky Lagoon)

Luxury Journey Around Iceland's Ring Road - 10 Days

See glaciers, canyons, waterfalls, and more on this two-week luxury adventure that takes you counterclockwise around the country's famed Ring Road. With a private driver and guide, you'll spend your days exploring the black-sand beaches of the south coast, the rugged Eastfjords, lesser-traveled villages of the north, and the diverse Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Meanwhile, nights are filled with stays at boutique gems in remote locations while 5-star luxury starts and finishes your holiday in Reykjavík.

Experience outdoor adventures like surfing and ziplining on this luxury adventure through Iceland

Luxury Outdoor Adventures in Western & Southern Iceland - 10 Days

Experience the best of southwestern Iceland's great outdoors with this 10-day tour that tempers adrenaline-filled adventures with Nordic-style luxury and geothermal spa time. Your vacation kicks off in Reykjavík before setting off on an epic road trip through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Golden Circle. Break up your scenic drives with thrilling snowmobile, zipline, and volcano experiences, then finish with a stay at the award-winning Retreat at the Blue Lagoon.

Spend a night under the stars and amid wildlife in your luxury transparent pod (photo courtesy of the Bubble Hotel)

Luxury Winter Exploration of Iceland's North & West - 10 Days

This 10-day Icelandic itinerary combines an adventurous winter road trip with scenic guided tours and plenty of time to switch off in luxurious hotels and natural spas. Grab the keys to your rental car and explore the rugged north, where the small city of Akureyri is your base for whale watching, horseback riding, and soaking in hot springs. Fly to Reykjavík next and swap the self-drive for private tours to the west's greatest highlights, including the Golden Circle and a midnight search for the northern lights.

Spot Atlantic puffins in Iceland's Westfjords

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

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

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.

Wander through glacial ice caves on this 16-day Iceland adventure

Iceland Super Jeep Southern Highlands Tour - 16 Days

To see the most out of Iceland, you need to go off the beaten path, and to do that, you need the right vehicle. That's why, over 10 days, you'll explore the most ruggedly beautiful parts of Iceland's famed highlands in a specially outfitted "Super Jeep." Along with your personal driver, you'll traverse soaring coastal cliffs, black-sand beaches, plunging waterfalls, and volcanic valleys—plus make stops for ice hikes, snowmobile rides, zipline tours, soaks in natural hot springs, and much more.

Experience some of Iceland's most unique boutique hotels (photo courtesy of Panorama Glass Lodge)

Relaxed Luxury Tour of Iceland: Natural Wonders & Geothermal Spas - 10 Days

Sit back and soak up Iceland's most astonishing landscapes as your private driver loops around the country on this 10-day luxury itinerary. Starting and finishing in the southwest's Reykjanes Peninsula, you'll tour geysers and volcanic craters in the Golden Circle and visit the dramatic waterfalls and coastal cliffs of the north's Diamond Circle. Punctuate your sightseeing with lots of pampering downtime at geothermal spas and stays at a series of chic destination hotels.

Soak in your personal wood-fired hot tub in a luxury cabin on an adrenaline-filled Iceland adventure (photo courtesy of Hrifunes Nature Park)

1 Week in Iceland - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Iceland, you can uncover the country's spectacular landscapes and accommodations. Reykjavík is an excellent base to explore the Golden Circle and the southern coast, while the remote Kirkjubæjarklaustur region calls to adrenaline seekers. If you're traveling in winter, dogsledding and Super Jeep adventures introduce you to frosted landscapes. Or, for a relaxing itinerary, split your time between geothermal spas and scenic helicopter rides.

Relax in your volcanic hot tub in the remote wilderness (photo courtesy of Eldar Lodge)

Luxury Spas, Helicopters & Glaciers in West Iceland - 7 Days

With a private helicopter and pilot at your disposal, you can squeeze an awful lot into a weeklong luxury jaunt to Iceland. You'll begin with three nights at the award-winning Retreat at the Blue Lagoon. Tear yourself away from your suite and private lagoon for day trips to the Golden Circle and Reykjavík. Then, it's a helicopter transfer to a secret location for three nights in one of the country's premier private lodges, complete with a private chef and daily helicopter adventures.

A private helicopter flight drops you at your remote Icelandic retreat (photo courtesy of Eleven Deplar Farm)

Luxury Iceland From Above: A Helicopter Tour Across the Land of Fire & Ice - 10 Days

Take to the skies on this 10-day luxury adventure that introduces you to Iceland's glaciers, volcanoes, and geysers through scenic helicopter trips and bespoke excursions. On a series of private flights, you'll venture from Reykjavík to the northern wilderness of Ólafsfjörður before landing in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Add in stays remarkable accommodations like Iceland's premier spa and one of the world's best hotels, and you might just have the trip of a lifetime.

You'll find plenty of opportunities to see the aurora borealis on your trip to Iceland (photo courtesy of Panorama Glass Lodges)

Luxury Winter Adventures & Hot Springs in Iceland - 7 Days

Discover western Iceland at your own pace with this weeklong luxury tour that blends private tours and outdoor experiences with a self-drive adventure across the Golden Circle and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Get a taste of Icelandic humor with a show at the capital's Harpa Concert Hall, set off by Super Jeep in search of the aurora borealis, and spend a night underneath the Golden Circle's starry skies in a glass lodge. Wrap up your winter getaway with a soak in the Sky Lagoon Spa's oceanfront geothermal pools.

Luxuriate in Iceland's first-class geothermal spas (photo courtesy of The Retreat at Blue Lagoon)

Luxury Icelandic Spa Retreat: Reykjavík & the Golden Circle - 7 Days

Punctuate a week of relaxation at Iceland's best geothermal spas with exhilarating helicopter flights, forays into volcanoes, and plenty of fine dining. In between soothing treatments and soaks, private tours will introduce you to the highlights of Reykjavík. Loop around the famous Golden Circle to glimpse its iconic geysers and waterfalls, then spend your last two nights in the Blue Lagoon's award-winning luxury resort.

Experience natural wonders like Skógafoss on this adventure-filled luxury trip

Adrenaline-Filled Luxury in Iceland: Rafting, Caving & Ice Climbing Adventures - 7 Days

Pack your best outdoor gear and sense of adventure for a week of exhilarating excursions, Michelin fine dining, and downtime in Iceland's premier hotels and spas. With a private guide and Super Jeep at your disposal throughout, you'll discover the Golden Circle's waterfalls and geysers, venture deep into the south coast's famous glaciers and ice caves and finish up in Reykjavík with a private climbing session among black basalt cliffs.

Stand behind the famous Seljalandfoss waterfall in Iceland's captivating south

Luxury Highlights of South & West Iceland - 7 Days

With a private driver at your disposal, a week is plenty of time to relax and unwind while seeing Iceland's varied natural wonders. During the day, you'll visit the famous Golden Circle geysers, the evocative black-sand beaches and waterfalls of the South Coast, and the seaside villages of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Spend the evenings in luxurious comfort with Michelin-starred dining and bookend your trip in the rejuvenating waters of Iceland's premier spas.

Capture some of Iceland's most spectacular shots on this 10-day adventure

Photogenic Iceland: Scenic Self-Drive Adventure - 10 Days

Pack your best camera for this scenic self-drive adventure to the far corners of southern Iceland. Things kick off in the capital of Reykjavík with a visit to a natural hot spring before hitting the road to see waterfalls, volcanoes, and geothermal fields on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Golden Circle scenic route. Continue around the coast, stopping at colorful villages and visiting other marvels like canyons, glacial lagoons, and a "diamond beach" before ending with a soak in the legendary Blue Lagoon.

Explore Iceland's Magnificent Westfjörds & Otherworldly Highlands - 10 Days

Go beyond Iceland's cool capital of Reykjavík for an off-the-beaten-path road trip through the wild highlands and fjords of the west coast. It starts in the northwest of the country, where you'll visit waterfalls, stroll coastal cliffs, kayak on fjords—you'll even learn a bit about Icelandic sorcery! Then, continue north, stopping at geothermal wonders like spouting geysers, natural hot springs, and more before returning to the capital for a relaxing spa day, whale watching, and a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon.

Hit the open road on a drive around Iceland's Ring Road

Iceland Extended Ring Road Self-Drive Adventure - 10 Days

With its countless natural wonders forged by ice and fire, Iceland was built for road trips. And while it's possible to embark on short sections of this nation's most scenic drives, this epic 10-day journey doesn't skimp on the action. You'll drive around the whole country, stopping for adventures as you marvel at waterfalls, snorkel in Arctic waters, explore the rugged Eastfjords, go horseback riding on black-sand beaches, brave whitewater rapids, soak in volcanic hot springs, and more.

Soak in one of the hot tubs with epic views (photo courtesy of Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon)

The 7 Best Hotels on the South Coast

Whether you're looking for a traditional stay, a modern one, or a mix of both, you can find what you need in these hotels on Iceland's South Coast. This region—known for geometric basalt formations, "diamond" beaches, and Europe's largest glacier—primarily offers guesthouses with limited services but an abundance of hospitality. These hotels all have that warm, personalized feeling, as well as amenities like hot tubs, tasty restaurants, and views of the landscape that have made Iceland a must-visit destination.

Soak in the views from your private cottage (photo courtesy of Dís Cottages)

The 5 Best Hotels in Snæfellsnes

Black sand beaches, natural stone arches, and one of Iceland's most iconic mountains are just some of the natural sites that make up the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, so it's no surprise that the hotels all reflect different parts of the landscape and culture. Stay in a historic hotel in a lava field next to one of Iceland's oldest wooden chapels, watch the northern lights from your private deck on a plot of land made famous in the Icelandic Sagas, or take a dip in on-site geothermal baths with mountain views.

Stay in a glass cabin with panoramic views (photo courtesy of Panorama Glass Lodges)

The 10 Best Hotels Near the Golden Circle

Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the natural phenomena of the Golden Circle or discover local culture and folklore, the region's best hotels exemplify different aspects of this favorite Icelandic route. Some offer amenities like private hot springs, others have international food halls, and many have saunas and hot tubs to relax under the northern lights after a long day of exploring.

Take a boat ride on Iceland's glacial lagoons

Frozen Iceland: Ultimate Winter Ring Road Experience - 14 Days

This two-week self-drive adventure will take you around the whole of Iceland—north, south, east, and west. It starts with city tours and nightlife in Reykjavík, then a trip south for off-roading, glaciers, lava caving, and hunting the northern lights. Continue up the rugged Eastfjords and tour the geothermal wonderland of the north before finishing the trip at western waterfalls and the relaxing Blue Lagoon.

Iceland Summer Ring Road Adventure - 14 Days

Go off the beaten path on a road trip through Iceland's remote and rugged landscapes. Over 14 days during the pleasant summer months, you'll drive from Reykjavík up the scenic west coast, visiting national parks, fjords, waterfalls, geothermal areas, and more. Then continue to Iceland's east and south, where you'll go whale watching, explore lava caves, and soak in the famous Blue Lagoon.

Ride Icelandic horses across winter landscapes

Iceland Winter Highlands Jeep Adventure - 14 Days

Gear up (literally) for a rugged adventure that will take you into Iceland's untamed highlands. Meet your expert driver/guide and go off-roading around wildly beautiful landscapes, which include dried lava fields and towering basalt cliffs. When you're not in the Jeep, you'll enjoy other adventures ranging from ice climbing and glacier hikes to waterfall visits and long soaks in mineral hot springs.

You'll traverse incredible Icelandic landscapes on the four-day Laugavegur Trek

Iceland Highlands Trekking & Eastfjords - 14 Days

This active two-week journey through Iceland goes beyond sightseeing and immerses you in its untamed nature. After soaking in the Blue Lagoon and touring the colorful capital of Reykjavík, you're off on a multiday trek through mountain highlands and lava fields. Continue the adventure on a road trip to the Eastfjords, far off the tourist trail, where you'll marvel at waterfalls, go ice-caving, and see a "lava show."

Visit some of Iceland's most breathtaking winter landscapes

Active Iceland Winter Road Trip - 10 Days

Grab the car keys and hit the asphalt on an epic 10-day road trip adventure through the winter wilds of Iceland. During this journey, you'll enjoy major highlights, from natural hot springs like the Blue Lagoon to volcanic beaches and thundering waterfalls. But it's not all a scenic drive—you'll also embark on glacier hikes, snowshoeing adventures, whale watching, tours to spot the northern lights, and more.

Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Westfjords, Lake Mývatn & Akureyri: Best Itinerary Ideas

Twelve to 14 days is the most popular trip length for Iceland travelers interested in visiting Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Westfjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri, especially when also including the Golden Circle, South Coast, and East Fjords. If you're not interested in the Golden Circle, South Coast, and East Fjords, about 10 days are enough for your Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Westfjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in eight or nine days for travelers with limited time. Read on for the best itineraries including Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Westfjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri and beyond.

Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Lake Mývatn & Akureyri: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Iceland typically plan a trip for 8 to 10 days when combining Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri with South Coast and East Fjords. For travelers wanting to visit Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri exclusively, plan a week to eight days for a well-paced trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri and beyond.

Eruption of Strokkur, Golden Circle route

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

Most travelers will find that 8 to 11 days is perfect for a well-paced Iceland trip with stops in Reykjavík, along the Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Westman Islands. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in seven days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Those with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Thórsmörk, Reykjanes Peninsula, or West Iceland. See more ideas for Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Westman Islands itineraries below.

Puffins relaxing on Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands

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

Most travelers will find that six days to a week is perfect for a well-paced Iceland trip with stops in Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Westman Islands. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in five days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, or Reykjanes Peninsula. Keep reading for more inspiring Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Westman Islands itineraries.

Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast & East Fjords: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and East Fjords spend about 9 to 10 days in Iceland, which usually includes some time in Lake Mývatn and Laugarbakki as well. If you're only headed to Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, South Coast, and East Fjords, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in six to seven days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, South Coast, and East Fjords and beyond.

Ingjaldshóll church and Snæfellsjökull glacier, Snæfellsnes, Iceland

Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Westfjords: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Westfjords spend about 12 to 14 days in Iceland, which usually includes some time on the Golden Circle, South Coast, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri as well. For travelers wanting to visit Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Westfjords exclusively, plan six to eight days for a well-paced trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as five days. For the best itineraries, including Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Westfjords, keep reading below.

Classic view of famous Skogafoss waterfall in twilight, Golden Circle

Reykjavík, Golden Circle & South Coast: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, and South Coast spend about a week to eight days in Iceland, which usually includes some time in Snæfellsnes Peninsula as well. For travelers wanting to visit Reykjavík, Golden Circle, and South Coast exclusively, plan five to six days for a well-paced trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in two to four days for travelers with limited time. Read on for the best itineraries, including Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and beyond.

View of Reynisfjara, a famous black-sand beach on Iceland's popular South Coast route

Reykjavík & South Coast: Best Itinerary Ideas

Seven to eight days is the most popular trip length for Iceland travelers interested in visiting both Reykjavík and the South Coast, especially when also including the Golden Circle and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. For travelers wanting to visit Reykjavík and the South Coast exclusively, plan five to seven days for a well-paced trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as two to four days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Reykjavík and the South Coast and beyond.

Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn & Akureyri: Best Itinerary Ideas

Nine to 10 days is a great length for an Iceland trip with stops in Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Westfjords, Hvammstangi, or the Reykjanes Peninsula. Get inspired with kimkim's Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri trip ideas below.

Reykjavík, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn & Akureyri: Best Itinerary Ideas

Eight to 10 days is a great length for an Iceland trip with stops in Reykjavík, the South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favored itinerary extensions include the Golden Circle, Westfjords, or West Iceland. Get inspired with the below trip ideas for Reykjavík, the South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri.

Colorful corrugated metal homes of Iceland's Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast & Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that a week to eight days is perfect for a well-paced Iceland trip with stops in Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in five or six days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include West Iceland, Westman Islands, or Reykjanes Peninsula. Keep reading for more inspiring Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula itineraries.

Father and son hopping on rocks and enjoying Skógafoss waterfall in Iceland

2 Weeks in Iceland - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Iceland, you can make a complete loop around the country on a wintry adventure perfect for older children or stick to a northwest road trip to unplug and recharge while hiking, horseback riding, and soaking in geothermal pools. First-time travelers to Iceland can opt for a scenic tour of Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle, and the Westman Islands, while those ready to get well off the beaten path should opt for a trip to the Westfjords.

South Iceland Family Road Trip: Snaefellsnes, Golden Circle & Westman Islands - 14 Days

Experience the best of Iceland on this 14-day family road trip that combines thrilling icy excursions and memorable encounters with whales and puffins. Uncover the treasures of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula before spending quality family time together as you explore the waterfalls, secret lagoons, and geysers of Iceland's Golden Circle at your own pace. Spend a relaxed couple of days on volcanic Heimaey Island before an exhilarating simulated flight ride in Reykjavík completes your adventure.

Have fun with the kids riding Icelandic horses

Iceland's Wild West & Arctic North Family Road Trip - 14 Days

Switch off your devices and reconnect with your family on this captivating two-week Icelandic road trip. Touch down in Reykjavík, where you'll explore 8,000-year-old glittering lava tunnels before heading west to immerse yourselves in nature, waterfalls, and the untouched Westfjords. Along the way, hike icy glaciers, ride Icelandic horses across stunning vistas, and enjoy quality time with the kids as you venture across vast fjords, red-sand beaches, and peninsulas rich in Norse mythology.

Iceland's Wild West & Arctic North - 15 Days

Enjoy both unspoiled countryside and wild volcanic landscapes on this epic road trip through Iceland. Arrive in the west and head north past lava fields and rugged coastline to the Westfjords, a wild and remote area known for its mountains, fjords, and waterfalls. Continue to the far north and see the geothermal highlights along the Diamond Circle before turning south to relax in hot springs and stuff yourself on food tours in Reykjavík.

Highlights of Iceland's South, West & North - 13 Days

See it all on this adventure that covers the highlights and hidden wonders of Iceland. There's no time to waste, as right when you arrive you'll visit the waterfalls, glaciers, fjords, and beaches on the Golden Circle and South Coast. Continue the journey halfway around the island as you travel north to historic landmarks, coastal cliffs, and volcanic landscapes, before returning to the mother of all hot springs, the Blue Lagoon.

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