An Adventurous 7-Day Itinerary in Iceland

Wednesday, November 15: Reykjavik

Start your adventure by exploring the vibrant capital city of Reykjavik. In the morning, visit Hallgrimskirkja, the iconic church with panoramic views from its observation deck. Afterward, head to the Reykjavik Old Harbor for a whale watching tour in the afternoon. In the evening, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Laugavegur, the main shopping street, lined with restaurants and cafes.

  • Hallgrimskirkja: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Whale Watching Tour: Estimated Cost - $90-130, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Laugavegur: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Flexible
Thursday, November 16: Golden Circle

Embark on a thrilling Golden Circle tour. Start your morning by visiting Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes and the meeting point of two tectonic plates. In the afternoon, explore the geothermal wonders of Geysir and witness the powerful eruptions of Strokkur. End your day at Gullfoss, the magnificent "Golden Waterfall."

  • Thingvellir National Park: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Geysir Geothermal Area: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Gullfoss Waterfall: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, November 17: South Coast

Embark on an exciting South Coast adventure. Start your day at Seljalandsfoss, a picturesque waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water. Continue to the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, known for its unique basalt columns and towering cliffs. In the afternoon, explore the stunning landscapes of Skaftafell National Park, home to glaciers and hiking trails. Spend the evening relaxing in the charming town of Vik.

  • Seljalandsfoss: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Reynisfjara Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Skaftafell National Park: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday, November 18: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Spend the morning exploring the glacial lagoon, where floating icebergs create a surreal atmosphere. Take a boat tour to get closer to the icebergs and maybe even spot seals. In the afternoon, venture to Diamond Beach, located nearby, to see the icebergs washed up on the black sand shore.

  • Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Diamond Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, November 19: Reykjanes Peninsula

Explore the rugged landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Begin your day with a visit to the otherworldly Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa with soothing mineral-rich waters. In the afternoon, drive to the geothermal area of Gunnuhver and marvel at the powerful hot springs and mud pots. End your day by visiting the picturesque Reykjanesviti lighthouse and enjoying the coastal views.

  • Blue Lagoon: Estimated Cost - $60-100, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Gunnuhver Geothermal Area: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Reykjanesviti Lighthouse: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, November 20: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Embark on an adventurous journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and its picturesque waterfall, Kirkjufellsfoss. Continue the exploration by driving along the coastline, admiring the dramatic cliffs and rock formations. In the afternoon, explore Djúpalónssandur, a beautiful black pebble beach with remnants of a shipwreck. End your day with a visit to the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi.

  • Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Djúpalónssandur Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Arnarstapi: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, November 21: Reykjanesviti Lighthouse

On your final day, revisit Reykjanesviti lighthouse at sunrise for a breathtaking view. Spend the morning capturing the beauty of the surroundings and reflecting on your adventurous journey through Iceland. In the afternoon, head back to Reykjavik for some last-minute souvenir shopping and a farewell dinner at one of the city's excellent restaurants.

  • Reykjanesviti Lighthouse: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Souvenir Shopping in Reykjavik: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Flexible
  • Farewell Dinner in Reykjavik: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Flexible

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, Iceland offers plenty of off-the-beaten-path attractions. Consider exploring Fjaðrárgljúfur, a stunning canyon with breathtaking views and hiking trails. Another hidden gem is Landmannalaugar, a geothermal area with colorful rhyolite mountains and natural hot springs. Additionally, local favorites include exploring the ice caves in Vatnajökull National Park and hiking to the summit of Mount Esja near Reykjavik.

Check out Kayak for hotel and flight prices in Iceland.

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