Thingvellir National Park: Visit Iceland's first national park and learn about the country's history and geology (3 hours)
The Sun Voyager: Take a photo with this iconic sculpture of a Viking ship (30 minutes)
Day 2: South Coast
Skogafoss Waterfall: Hike up to the top for a panoramic view (1.5 hours)
Reynisfjara Beach: Marvel at the black sand beach and basalt columns (1 hour)
Vatnajokull Glacier Park: Take a guided glacier hike or explore the visitor center (3 hours)
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Go on a boat tour and see the icebergs up close (1.5 hour)
Day 3: Golden Circle
Gullfoss Waterfall: Witness the power of the double waterfall (1 hour)
Strokkur Geyser: Watch the geyser erupt every few minutes (1 hour)
Thingvellir National Park: Walk between two tectonic plates in the picturesque rift valley (2 hours)
Laugarvatn Fontana Spa: Relax in the natural hot springs and take a dip in the lake (3 hours)
Day 4: Northern Lights
Aurora Reykjavik Museum: Learn about the science behind the Northern Lights (1 hour)
Thingvellir National Park: Chase the Northern Lights between the mountains and glaciers (3 hours)
Hot chocolate and marshmallow campfire: Warm up with a hot drink and snacks (1 hour)
Day 5: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Buðakirkja Church: Visit the famous black church (1 hour)
Kirkjufell Mountain: Take a magical photo of Iceland's most photographed mountain (1.5 hours)
Arnarstapi Cliffs: Walk along the cliffs and see the unique rock formations (2 hours)
Snæfellsjökull National Park: Explore the glacier and volcano on a guided tour (3.5 hours)
Time and Cost Estimates
Harpa Concert Hall (1 hour, free)
Perlan Museum (2 hours, $25 adult)
Thingvellir National Park (3 hours, free)
The Sun Voyager (30 minutes, free)
Skogafoss Waterfall (1.5 hours, free)
Reynisfjara Beach (1 hour, free)
Vatnajokull Glacier Park (3 hours, $80 adult)
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (1.5 hour, $70 adult)
Gullfoss Waterfall (1 hour, free)
Strokkur Geyser (1 hour, free)
Thingvellir National Park (2 hours, free)
Laugarvatn Fontana Spa (3 hours, $40 adult)
Aurora Reykjavik Museum (1 hour, $25 adult)
Thingvellir National Park Northern Lights (3 hours, free)
Hot chocolate and marshmallow campfire (1 hour, free)
Buðakirkja Church (1 hour, free)
Kirkjufell Mountain (1.5 hours, free)
Arnarstapi Cliffs (2 hours, free)
Snæfellsjökull National Park (3.5 hours, $80 adult)
Total Estimated Costs: $415
Transportation
Travelers should consider renting a car to explore Iceland. It provides flexibility and allows more control over the itinerary. The Ring Road is the main highway that circles the perimeter of the island and provides easy access to most attractions. A 4x4 vehicle may be required in some areas. Gas prices vary, but expect to spend around $8 per gallon. Parking may be limited, especially in Reykjavik, where a public transportation system is available. Taxis are expensive, but Uber and Lyft operate in Reykjavik.
Useful Tips
If you have more time in Iceland, consider adding a visit to the Blue Lagoon or a horseback riding tour. If you have less time, skip the Northern Lights tour and spend more time exploring Reykjavik or the Golden Circle. Also, be sure to pack warm clothing and waterproof gear, as Iceland's weather can be unpredictable.
Airports
Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is Iceland's main international airport and is located in Keflavik, about 31 miles southwest of Reykjavik. The airport is served by many international airlines and provides easy access to the capital city. It takes about 45 minutes to drive from KEF to Reykjavik. Domestic flights operate from Reykjavik's smaller airport, Reykjavik Airport (RKV), located within the city limits.