10 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary For First Time Visitors (With Hidden Gems)
There are few places on Earth that rival the raw beauty of Iceland. Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” this country blends dramatic waterfalls, ancient glaciers, lava fields, black sand beaches, and natural hot springs into one incredible landscape. A 10 day Iceland road trip itinerary is the perfect way to see it all, allowing you to circle the island along the famous Ring Road and discover its countless hidden gems at your own pace.
Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, exploring geysers, or soaking in steamy geothermal lagoons, this Iceland road trip offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and serenity.
Overview
This Iceland road trip itinerary follows the Ring Road (Route 1), covering roughly 1,332 kilometers around the island. You’ll begin and end in Reykjavik, driving counterclockwise through waterfalls, fjords, volcanoes, and quaint coastal towns. Expect scenic drives, cozy guesthouses, and jaw-dropping natural wonders every single day.
Trip Duration: 10 days
Starting Point: Reykjavik
Total Distance: 1,332 km (828 miles)
Main Route: Ring Road (Route 1)
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Reykjavik
Arrive in Iceland’s capital and pick up your rental car. Explore the colorful streets of Reykjavik, visit Hallgrímskirkja Church, and stroll along the Old Harbor. Stop by Sky Lagoon for a sunset soak before enjoying dinner at a cozy seafood restaurant.
Things to do:
- Visit Hallgrímskirkja
- Explore Laugavegur shopping street
- Soak at Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon
Day 2 – The Golden Circle
Drive the iconic Golden Circle, Iceland’s most famous route filled with geological wonders. Start at Thingvellir National Park, where two tectonic plates meet, then continue to the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall and the erupting Geysir Hot Springs.
Things to do:
- Thingvellir National Park
- Geysir Hot Springs
- Gullfoss Waterfall
- Optional: Kerid Crater
Day 3 – South Coast to Vík
Head south toward Iceland’s most photogenic coastline. Visit the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls before reaching the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach near the charming town of Vík.
Things to do:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Skógafoss Waterfall
- Reynisfjara Beach
- Dyrhólaey Cliffs
Day 4 – Vík to Skaftafell National Park
Continue east along dramatic lava fields and glacial plains. Stop at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon for a short hike before reaching Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park. Enjoy scenic trails with views of glaciers and waterfalls.
Things to do:
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
- Skaftafell Glacier hike
- Svartifoss Waterfall
Day 5 – Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach
Spend the day at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where giant icebergs drift toward the sea. Just across the road, Diamond Beach sparkles with pieces of ice scattered along the black sand. Continue east to Höfn, famous for its lobster dishes.
Things to do:
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Diamond Beach
- Explore Höfn town
Day 6 – The Eastfjords
Drive through one of Iceland’s most remote and scenic areas. Winding mountain roads lead to quiet fishing villages and fjord views. Visit Djúpivogur and Egilsstaðir, where you can relax by Lagarfljót Lake.
Things to do:
- Drive the Eastfjords
- Stop at Djúpivogur
- Walk around Egilsstaðir and Lagarfljót
Day 7 – North Iceland and Lake Mývatn
Explore Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, before heading to Lake Mývatn, an area filled with geothermal craters and steaming vents. End the day in Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city.
Things to do:
- Dettifoss Waterfall
- Hverir geothermal area
- Mývatn Nature Baths
- Akureyri sightseeing
Day 8 – Whale Watching in Húsavík
Drive to Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital. Join a guided boat tour to see humpback whales and sometimes even blue whales. Spend the evening relaxing at GeoSea Thermal Baths overlooking the ocean.
Things to do:
- Whale watching tour
- GeoSea Thermal Baths
- Húsavík Harbor walk
Day 9 – West Iceland and Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Drive west to explore Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature.” Visit Kirkjufell Mountain, Arnarstapi Cliffs, and Snæfellsjökull National Park. Overnight near Borgarnes or Stykkishólmur.
Things to do:
- Kirkjufell Mountain
- Snæfellsjökull National Park
- Arnarstapi Cliffs
Day 10 – Return to Reykjavik
Head back toward Reykjavik, stopping at Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls along the way. Enjoy one final evening in the capital city before your flight home.
Things to do:
- Hraunfossar Waterfall
- Barnafoss Waterfall
- Reykjavik cafés and souvenir shopping
Hidden Gems
Beyond the classic Ring Road route lies another side of Iceland, one filled with secluded canyons, untouched fjords, and thermal springs most travelers miss. These hidden gems reveal Iceland’s quiet beauty away from the crowds and offer an even deeper connection with its wild landscapes.
1. Stuðlagil Canyon
Tucked away in East Iceland, Stuðlagil Canyon is one of the country’s most photogenic natural wonders. Its towering basalt columns frame a bright turquoise river that glows under the sunlight. The hike to the viewpoint is short and rewarding — a must-see detour between Egilsstaðir and Mývatn.
2. Hvitserkur Rock
On the Vatnsnes Peninsula in North Iceland stands Hvitserkur, a 15-meter-tall sea stack shaped like a dragon drinking from the ocean. It’s a quiet stop often skipped by Ring Road travelers but perfect for photographers seeking something unique.
3. Rauðisandur Beach
Located in the remote Westfjords, Rauðisandur is a stunning red-sand beach stretching nearly 10 kilometers. Unlike Iceland’s famous black sand beaches, this one glows with pink and golden tones, especially under sunset light. The drive is long but breathtakingly scenic.
4. Gjáin Valley
Hidden in the Þjórsárdalur region, Gjáin feels like a fairytale come to life — with waterfalls, moss-covered lava, and crystal pools scattered through a lush green canyon. It’s easily accessible from the Golden Circle if you’re looking for a peaceful stop.
5. Kvernufoss Waterfall
Just a short walk from the popular Skógafoss, Kvernufoss hides in a quiet gorge and can even be viewed from behind the curtain of water. Few visitors make it here, making it a magical spot for solitude and photography.
6. Borgarfjörður Eystri
If you’re heading through East Iceland in summer, Borgarfjörður Eystri is one of the best places in the country to see puffins up close. The village itself is charming and surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains perfect for hiking.
7. Landmannalaugar
For travelers with a 4×4 and a love for adventure, Landmannalaugar in the Highlands offers surreal landscapes of rainbow-colored mountains, geothermal streams, and lava fields. It’s a hiker’s paradise and one of Iceland’s most dramatic hidden treasures.
8. The Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
Located in Flúðir near the Golden Circle, the Secret Lagoon is Iceland’s oldest man-made hot spring. It’s a quieter and more authentic alternative to the Blue Lagoon, surrounded by natural steam vents and peaceful countryside views.
Iceland Road Trip Itinerary (With Hidden Gems Included)
If you have the time and want to connect the original itinerary above with the hidden gems for one gigantic road trip, here’s the full itinerary list:
| Day | Main Route Highlights | Hidden Gems and Optional Detours |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 – Reykjavik | Explore Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, Sky Lagoon, and the Old Harbor. | Enjoy a local geothermal pool like Laugardalslaug for a quiet evening with locals. |
| Day 2 – The Golden Circle | Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, Kerid Crater. | Visit Gjáin Valley for lush waterfalls and mossy lava fields, or relax in the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir. |
| Day 3 – South Coast to Vík | Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Beach, Dyrhólaey Cliffs. | Stop by Kvernufoss Waterfall, a peaceful twin of Skógafoss hidden nearby. |
| Day 4 – Vík to Skaftafell | Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Skaftafell Glacier Hike, Svartifoss Waterfall. | For those with a 4×4, detour inland to Landmannalaugar for rainbow-colored mountains and natural hot springs. |
| Day 5 – Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach | Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Höfn town. | Visit Stokksnes Peninsula near Höfn for dramatic black dunes and views of Vestrahorn Mountain. |
| Day 6 – The Eastfjords | Scenic drive through fishing villages like Djúpivogur and Egilsstaðir. | Stop at Stuðlagil Canyon, Iceland’s striking basalt canyon with turquoise glacial water. |
| Day 7 – Lake Mývatn and North Iceland | Dettifoss, Hverir geothermal area, Mývatn Nature Baths, Akureyri. | Detour to the Vatnsnes Peninsula to see Hvitserkur Rock, the dragon-shaped sea stack. |
| Day 8 – Húsavík and Surroundings | Whale watching tour, GeoSea Thermal Baths. | Explore Borgarfjörður Eystri, known for puffins and colorful rhyolite peaks. |
| Day 9 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Kirkjufell, Arnarstapi, Snæfellsjökull National Park, Borgarnes. | Extend north into the Westfjords to visit Rauðisandur Beach, Iceland’s rare red-sand coastline. |
| Day 10 – Return to Reykjavik | Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls, Reykjavik cafés and museums. | Stop at Grábrók Crater for an easy hike and panoramic views before finishing your trip. |
Best Times to Go
- Summer (June–August): Best for driving the entire Ring Road, with long daylight hours and milder temperatures.
- Spring and Fall (May, September): Fewer tourists and vibrant scenery, though weather can be unpredictable.
- Winter (November–March): Ideal for Northern Lights, ice caves, and snowy landscapes, but some routes may close due to ice.
Packing List
You can get a majority of these items on my Amazon gear store:
- Warm waterproof jacket and layers
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Gloves, hat, and scarf
- Portable phone charger and car adapter
- Swimsuit for hot springs
- Reusable water bottle
- Rain cover for backpack and camera
- Offline maps (cell service can be limited)
Where to Stay
| Town / Stop | Check Hotels |
|---|---|
| Reykjavik | Check Hotels |
| Vík | Check Hotels |
| Skaftafell | Check Hotels |
| Höfn | Check Hotels |
| Egilsstaðir | Check Hotels |
| Akureyri | Check Hotels |
| Húsavík | Check Hotels |
| Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Check Hotels |
Fun Facts
- Iceland has no mosquitoes thanks to its cold climate.
- About 85% of Iceland’s energy comes from renewable geothermal sources.
- There are more sheep than people in Iceland, roughly two to one!
- You can drink pure glacier water straight from streams almost anywhere.
- The Icelandic language has barely changed in over 1,000 years.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Driving: Roads are well maintained but narrow; always check road conditions before heading out, especially in winter.
- Fuel: Gas stations are limited in remote areas, so fill up whenever possible.
- Speed Limits: Usually 90 km/h (56 mph) on paved roads.
- Weather: Can change rapidly, always bring extra layers.
- Payment: Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is rarely needed.
- Safety: Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, but still respect nature and warning signs.
Related
8 Budget Saving Tips
Traveling through Iceland can be expensive, but there are plenty of smart ways to explore this incredible country without breaking the bank. With a bit of planning and flexibility, you can enjoy every waterfall, glacier, and lagoon while keeping your costs low.
- Travel in the Shoulder Season: Visit in May, early June, or September for lower car rental rates, cheaper accommodations, and fewer crowds, while still enjoying great weather and open roads.
- Book a Campervan: Renting a campervan combines transportation and accommodation in one, allowing you to stay at campgrounds or designated sites for a fraction of hotel prices.
- Cook Your Own Meals: Eating out in Iceland is pricey, so shop at local supermarkets like Bonus, Kronan, or Netto and prepare your own food using your guesthouse or campervan kitchen.
- Refill Water Bottles from Streams: Iceland’s tap water is some of the cleanest in the world. Skip buying bottled water — refill straight from taps or mountain streams for free.
- Use Free Natural Hot Springs: While the Blue Lagoon is world-famous, many hot springs such as Reykjadalur, Seljavallalaug, and Landbrotalaug are free and just as relaxing.
- Book in Advance: Secure accommodations, car rentals, and tours early, especially in summer, to lock in lower rates and ensure availability.
- Limit Paid Tours: Many of Iceland’s best sights, waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints are completely free to visit. Save guided tours for truly unique experiences like ice caves or whale watching.
- Fuel Up Wisely: Gas is expensive in Iceland. Use fuel discount cards (often offered by rental companies) and fill up in larger towns where prices are lower.
More Budget Planning Tips
If you’re traveling with a partner or friends, sharing costs can make a huge difference. Splitting car rentals, fuel, and accommodations can cut your expenses by nearly half while allowing you to enjoy a larger vehicle or better lodging. Campervans are especially cost-effective for two or more people, combining your transportation and lodging into one.
Plan your route in advance, estimate fuel stops, and use apps like GasBuddy Iceland or Google Maps to track prices along the Ring Road. Setting aside a small emergency fund for weather delays or spontaneous tours will also keep your trip stress-free and flexible.
How Much an Iceland Road Trip Costs
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Comfort Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $40–$90 (hostels, guesthouses, campervan sites) | $120–$200 (standard hotels, Airbnbs) | $250+ (boutique hotels, luxury stays) |
| Food (per day) | $25–$40 (groceries, self-cooking) | $60–$90 (mix of groceries and restaurants) | $120+ (restaurants and cafés) |
| Car Rental or Campervan (per day) | $60–$120 (compact car or campervan) | $130–$200 (SUV or mid camper) | $250+ (4×4 or premium camper) |
| Fuel (per day average) | $40–$70 | $50–$80 | $70–$100 |
| Attractions and Activities | Mostly free (natural sites) | $50–$100 (occasional guided tours) | $150+ (ice caves, helicopter, private tours) |
| Estimated Daily Total | $165–$320 USD | $350–$550 USD | $700+ USD |
Money-Saving Takeaway
For most travelers, a 10-day Iceland road trip can be comfortably done on a budget of $2,000–$3,000 USD, including car rental, fuel, food, and accommodation, especially if you travel in the shoulder season and cook your own meals.
Travel Insurance and Safety Tips
Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, but its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather make travel insurance a must. Protecting your trip with a comprehensive plan ensures coverage for car damage, medical emergencies, or flight delays, all of which can happen when exploring remote regions.
- Get Travel Insurance Before You Go: Choose a plan that includes trip cancellation, emergency evacuation, and rental car protection. Many travelers opt for companies like World Nomads or SafetyWing, which specialize in adventure travel coverage.
- Check Weather and Road Conditions Daily: Icelandic weather changes quickly. Before driving each morning, check Safetravel.is and the Icelandic Road Authority website for alerts about wind, ice, or closures.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service can drop in remote areas, especially along the Eastfjords or Highlands. Always download offline maps through Google Maps or Maps.me so you can navigate even without a signal.
- Stay Secure Online During Your Trip: Many travelers rely on public Wi-Fi in cafés, hotels, and campgrounds throughout Iceland. To protect your personal data and prevent tracking, use a reliable VPN service like NordVPN. It encrypts your connection, hides your location, and helps you safely access your accounts no matter where you are.
(If you’re planning your next trip abroad, NordVPN also helps you access your favorite streaming sites and travel booking platforms securely, making it one of the smartest tools for digital travelers.) - Pack for All Conditions: Even in summer, weather can shift from sunny to freezing rain within minutes. Keep warm layers, gloves, and a rain jacket easily accessible in your car.
- Drive Cautiously and Respect Nature: Some roads are gravel or narrow, especially in the countryside. Drive slowly, follow signage, and never off-road — it’s illegal and damages fragile ecosystems.
Final Thoughts
A 10 day Iceland road trip itinerary offers the ultimate adventure for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking an unforgettable journey through one of the most stunning landscapes on Earth. From volcanic peaks to thundering waterfalls, every turn reveals another breathtaking view. Whether you’re driving solo, with friends, or as a couple, Iceland will leave you with memories and photos, that last a lifetime.
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