Adventuring in Iceland in 8 Days

  • Day 1: Reykjavik
    6.5km / 4 miles, 15 minutes drive

    Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, has numerous attractions such as the Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja Church, and the Perlan Museum. You can enjoy an evening in the city center dining and shopping. Discover a variety of restaurants with traditional Icelandic cuisine.

  • Day 2: Golden Circle Tour
    237.7 km / 147.7 miles, 3 hours and 50 minutes drive

    This tour that starts and ends in Reykjavik covers Thingvellir National Park (historical place where the Icelandic parliament was established in 930), Geysir hot springs, and Gullfoss waterfall. You will be amazed at the breathtaking natural view of Geysir frequently erupting.

  • Day 3: Vatnajökull Glacier National Park
    323km / 200 miles, 4 hours 42 minutes drive

    As the largest glacier and national park in Europe, Vatnajökull is one of the must-visit destinations in Iceland. Guided glacier hikes and ice cave tours are an outstanding way to immerse yourself in Icelandic nature.

  • Day 4: Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
    218.6 km / 135.8 miles, 3 hours and 10 minutes drive

    Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a hidden gem, a stunning place with an incredible scenic view. The nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon shines with its blue and white icebergs, seals, and marine wildlife.

  • Day 5: Landmannalaugar Highlands
    196 km / 121.8 miles, 4 hours and 30 minutes drive

    Landmannalaugar is a highland area surrounded by colourful volcanic lava fields, hot springs, and hiking trails. Here you can enjoy hiking on the scenic Laugavegur Trail, go for a dip in a geothermal pool, and enjoy a hot spring bath

  • Day 6: Akureyri
    384.6km / 239 miles, 4 hours and 45 minutes drive

    Akureyri is the second-largest city in Iceland, known as Iceland's capital of North. The city center has various restaurants, shops, museums, and botanical gardens. You can explore the town on bicycle or E-bike rental.

  • Day 7: Lake Mývatn Area
    98.5km / 61 miles, 1 hour and 20 minutes drive

    The Lake Mývatn area is popular for its geothermal heated water, lava formations and waterfalls. Enjoy a relaxing dip in the Mývatn Nature Baths and visit the nearby Dettifoss Waterfall, which is famous for its power and size.

  • Day 8: Reykjanes Peninsula
    63.4 km / 39.4 miles, 1 hour drive

    The Reykjanes peninsula has breathtaking landscapes and a chance for a good hike. The area has unique features, such as being home to the Blue Lagoon, Bridge Between Continents, and Gunnuhver hot springs.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Harpa Concert Hall (1 hour, €15)
  • Golden Circle Tour (7-8 hours, €80 - €100)
  • Vatnajökull Glacier Hike (6-7 hours, €120 - €140)
  • Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon (1 hour, Free)
  • Landmannalaugar Hiking (4-5 hours, €60 - €80)
  • Akureyri City Center (2-3 hours, Free)
  • Mývatn Nature Baths (2-3 hours, €30 - €40)
  • Blue Lagoon (2-3 hours, €40 - €60)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €345 - €435 per person

Transportation

Car rental is highly recommended for exploring Iceland. Driving around is quite safe, and the country has many beautiful places to visit. Driving distances from one sight to another are often far; therefore, it is best to ensure the car is in good condition before traveling. Budget for fuel (around €2 per liter) and consider 100 km/h as the standard speed limit. Depending on the activities, tours, and destinations, estimated fuel and car rental expenses can range from €500 - €800.

Useful Tips

For those with more time, we recommend travelling to the Skaftafell Glacier in eastern Iceland, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or the Westfjords. For those with less time, we suggest limiting the number of activities and sticking with the highlights such as exploring the Golden Circle, Reykjavik, and the South Coast.

Airports

There are two airports in Iceland: Keflavik International Airport (KEF) and Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV). Keflavik Airport is the largest and busiest international airport in Iceland, located about 40 minutes away from Reykjavik, with flights from the USA, Europe, and several other continents. Reykjavik Airport is minor and operates domestic flights and flights to Greenland and the Faroe Islands.

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