Exploring Reykjavík in 5 Days

  • Day 1: The Golden Circle Route
    Starting point: Reykjavík
    Time and distance from the last location: 3 hours (240 km)

    Embark on a journey that showcases some of Iceland's most beautiful natural wonders. Drive along the Golden Circle Route and witness the Þingvellir National Park and its dramatic landscapes, the breathtaking Geysir Geothermal Area, and the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall. You can even go snorkeling in the famous Silfra fissure.

  • Day 2: Reykjavík City Tour
    Starting point: Reykjavík
    Time and distance from the last location: -

    Explore the Old Harbour, Hallgrímskirkja Church, the iconic Harpa Concert Hall, and the Settlement Exhibition. Walk down the Laugavegur shopping street, and don't forget to take a dip in one of Reykjavík's geothermal swimming pools.

  • Day 3: Skaftafell National Park and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
    Starting point: Reykjavík
    Time and distance from the last location: 5 hours (370 km)

    Visit the magnificent Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, famous for its floating icebergs, and take a boat tour. Hike in Skaftafell National Park and witness the beautiful landscapes of glaciers and mountains.

  • Day 4: Reykjadalur hot spring hike and Blue Lagoon
    Starting point: Reykjavík
    Time and distance from the last location: 45 minutes (40 km)

    Take a hike up Reykjadalur, known as "Steam Valley," and relax in a naturally heated river amidst a beautiful landscape. Experience the healing power of geothermal water at the world-famous Blue Lagoon Spa.

  • Day 5: Whale watching tour and Viðey Island
    Starting point: Reykjavík
    Time and distance from the last location: 30 minutes (5 km)

    Experience the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat on a whale watching tour. Take a ferry to Viðey Island and explore the stunning landscapes, including the Imagine Peace Tower created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Golden Circle Tour (8-9 hours, $80 per person)
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour (1 hour, $75 per person)
  • Blue Lagoon (2-3 hours, $70 per person for standard package)
  • Whale Watching Tour (3 hours, $100 per person)
  • Viðey Island Ferry (15 minutes, $10 per person round trip)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $335 per person

Transportation

Getting around Reykjavík is best done by walking, biking or taking public transportation, but to visit certain attractions, a car rental is recommended. Keep in mind that Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to check road conditions before beginning any long drives.

Estimated travel costs:

  • Car rental (5 days): $400
  • Public transportation: $30 total
  • Viðey Island Ferry: $10 round trip

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to Snæfellsnes Peninsula or the South Coast. Or, skip one of the activities in the itinerary and spend more time exploring Reykjavík's museums, galleries, and restaurants.

If you have less time, consider removing the Whale Watching Tour or Viðey Island from the itinerary.

Airports

Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is Iceland's main airport, located about 50 km southwest of Reykjavík. Buses and taxis are available to transport travelers to and from the airport.

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