An Adventurous 7-Day Trip through the Ring Road of Iceland

  • Day 1: Reykjavik
    Drive from Keflavik International Airport to downtown Reykjavik (50 km, 45 mins)

    Reykjavik is Iceland's capital and largest city. It is known for its vibrant art and music scenes, stunning architecture, and natural hot springs. You can explore the city by visiting the Harpa Concert Hall, the Perlan Observation Deck, and the Hallgrimskirkja Church.

  • Day 2: Golden Circle
    Drive from Reykjavik to Golden Circle (267 km, 3 hours)

    The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in Iceland. You can visit the Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gulfoss Waterfall. You can also snorkel in the clear waters of the Silfra Fissure.

  • Day 3: Vatnajokull National Park
    Drive from Golden Circle to Vatnajokull National Park (270 km, 4 hours)

    Vatnajokull National Park is home to Europe's largest glacier and many other natural wonders. You can explore the Skaftafell Ice Cave, hike to the Dettifoss Waterfall, and take a dip in the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

  • Day 4: East Fjords
    Drive from Vatnajokull National Park to East Fjords (173 km, 2.5 hours)

    The East Fjords are a beautiful area with quaint fishing villages and stunning landscapes. You can go on a boat tour in Seydisfjordur, visit the Stokksnes Black Sand Beach, and hike to the Hengifoss Waterfall.

  • Day 5: Lake Myvatn
    Drive from East Fjords to Lake Myvatn (236 km, 3.5 hours)

    Lake Myvatn is a volcanic lake with stunning landscapes and unique geological features. You can visit the Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, explore the Krafla Geothermal Area, and relax in the Myvatn Nature Baths.

  • Day 6: Akureyri
    Drive from Lake Myvatn to Akureyri (100 km, 1.5 hours)

    Akureyri is Iceland's second largest city and is known for its stunning scenery and vibrant culture. You can visit the Akureyri Botanic Garden, explore the Godafoss Waterfall, and go skiing at the Hlidarfjall Ski Resort.

  • Day 7: Snaefellsnes Peninsula
    Drive from Akureyri to Snaefellsnes Peninsula (420 km, 6 hours)

    The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is known for its beautiful landscapes and stunning coastlines. You can explore the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, visit the Kirkjufell Mountain, and see the Búðir Black Church.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Harpa Concert Hall (1-2 hours, $20)
  • Perlan Observation Deck (1-2 hours, $30)
  • Hallgrimskirkja Church (1-2 hours, free)
  • Thingvellir National Park (2-3 hours, $10)
  • Geysir Geothermal Area (1-2 hours, free)
  • Gulfoss Waterfall (1-2 hours, free)
  • Silfra Fissure Snorkelling (2-3 hours, $150)
  • Skaftafell Ice Cave (2-3 hours, $150)
  • Dettifoss Waterfall (1-2 hours, $10)
  • Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (1-2 hours, $20)
  • Seydisfjordur Boat Tour (2-3 hours, $50)
  • Stokksnes Black Sand Beach (1-2 hours, free)
  • Hengifoss Waterfall (2-3 hours, free)
  • Dimmuborgir Lava Fields (1-2 hours, $10)
  • Krafla Geothermal Area (1-2 hours, free)
  • Myvatn Nature Baths (2-3 hours, $50)
  • Akureyri Botanic Garden (1-2 hours, $10)
  • Godafoss Waterfall (1-2 hours, free)
  • Hlidarfjall Ski Resort (1-2 hours, $50)
  • Snæfellsjökull Glacier (2-3 hours, $20)
  • Kirkjufell Mountain (1-2 hours, free)
  • Búðir Black Church (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $660

Transportation

It is recommended to rent a car for the duration of the trip. The cost of renting a car for 7 days starts at $400. Gas prices in Iceland are high, so it is important to budget accordingly. A full tank of gas can cost up to $120. The Ring Road is well paved and easy to navigate, but it is important to be aware of changing weather conditions and road closures.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Westfjords or the Blue Lagoon. If you have less time, consider skipping the East Fjords or the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. It is important to pack warm clothing, as the weather in Iceland can change quickly. It is also recommended to purchase travel insurance.

Airports

Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is the largest airport in Iceland and is located in Reykjanesbaer, about 50 km from downtown Reykjavik. It is the main hub for international flights to Iceland. Other airports in Iceland include Akureyri International Airport (AEY) and Egilsstadir Airport (EGS), which mainly serve domestic flights.

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