Four-Day Itinerary for Exploring Iceland

  • Day 1: Reykjavik
    25 minutes from Keflavik International Airport to Reykjavik by car (29.4 km)

    Once you arrive in Iceland, start by exploring the capital city of Reykjavik. Visit the Hallgrímskirkja church for a bird's eye view of the city and stop at the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre to admire its unique architecture. Take a stroll along the Reykjavik harbor and finish your day with a relaxing dip in the Laugardalslaug public swimming pool.

  • Day 2: Golden Circle Tour
    1 hour and 14 minutes (76.3 km) from Reykjavik to Thingvellir National Park

    Start your day early and take a tour around the famous Golden Circle. Visit the Thingvellir National Park, the place where the Viking parliament was established. Admire the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall and explore the Geysir geothermal area to see hot springs and geysers up close. End your day by relaxing in the Secret Lagoon.

  • Day 3: South Coast Tour
    1 hour and 32 minutes (123 km) from Reykjavik to Seljalandsfoss waterfall

    Drive along Iceland's scenic south coast today, starting your tour at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Walk behind the waterfall and explore the nearby Gljúfrabúi waterfall as well. Visit the Black Sand Beach in the town of Vik and admire the towering cliffs and crashing waves. On your way back, stop at the Reykjadalur hot springs for a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring.

  • Day 4: Reykjanes Peninsula
    24 minutes (23.6 km) from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon

    Start your last day in Iceland by driving to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa known for its healing powers. After a relaxing morning in the warm, blue waters, head to the Krýsuvík geothermal area to see the steam vents and bubbling mud pots. At the Reykjanesviti lighthouse, enjoy a panoramic view of the Reykjanes peninsula before heading back home.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hallgrímskirkja church: 1 hour, free
  • Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre: 1 hour, free
  • Laugardalslaug public swimming pool: 2 hours, 960 ISK per person (approx. $7.50 USD)
  • Golden Circle Tour: 8 hours, 11,090 ISK per person (approx. $86.40 USD)
  • Secret Lagoon: 1 hour, 3,200 ISK per person (approx. $25 USD)
  • Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls: 2 hours, free
  • Black Sand Beach: 2 hours, free
  • Reykjadalur hot springs: 3 hours, free
  • Blue Lagoon: 4 hours, 11,390 ISK per person (approx. $89 USD)
  • Krýsuvík geothermal area: 1 hour, free
  • Reykjanesviti lighthouse: 30 minutes, free
  • Total Estimated Costs:
  • Per person: 27,840 ISK (approx. $217.40 USD)

Transportation

It is recommended to rent a car to explore Iceland since most of the main attractions are outside of the capital city. There are also tour buses available for the Golden Circle and South Coast tours. Travel time can vary depending on weather conditions and traffic. Gas prices in Iceland are high, with an average price of 252 ISK per liter (approx. $1.97 USD). Plan accordingly for travel costs.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider spending a day exploring the Snæfellsnes peninsula, which is known for its stunning natural scenery, including waterfalls, mountains, and coastal vistas. If you have less time, consider skipping the Reykjadalur hot springs and instead spending time exploring the city of Reykjavik in more detail. Additionally, consider packing warm and waterproof clothes, as Iceland's weather can be unpredictable and change quickly.

Airports

Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is the main airport in Iceland, located about 48 km southwest of Reykjavik. It is the largest airport in Iceland and serves as a hub for many international flights.

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