5-Day Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary in Iceland on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: City Exploration

Reykjavik, Iceland

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Loki

Start your day with traditional Icelandic rye bread and skyr at Cafe Loki, located near Hallgrimskirkja.
Walk 10 minutes to Hallgrimskirkja after breakfast.
ISK2000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Hallgrimskirkja

Explore the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church and take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Walk to Harpa Concert Hall, 15 minutes away.
ISK1200, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur

Grab a famous Icelandic hotdog at this legendary stand, a must-try for visitors.
Head to the nearby waterfront area for a seaside stroll.
ISK1200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Stroll around the Harpa Concert Hall

Admire the stunning architecture and walk along the waterfront.
Walk to the Sun Voyager sculpture, 10 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Sun Voyager

Take photographs of this beautiful sculpture representing a dreamboat.
Walk to The Settlement Exhibition, 15 minutes away.
ISK1500, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Kopar

Savor fresh seafood dishes while enjoying views of the harbor.
Walk back to your accommodation or explore nearby.
ISK3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Golden Circle Adventure

Reykjavik, Iceland

7:30AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Fuel up on a hearty meal before embarking on a full-day tour.
Board the bus for your Golden Circle tour.
ISK0, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Golden Circle Tour

Join a budget-friendly tour to visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall in one day.
Provided by tour company.
ISK8500, 8 hours

4:00PM

Return to Reykjavik

Relax after a fulfilling day exploring the Golden Circle.
A bus will transport you back to the city.
Included in tour, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Icelandic Street Food

Enjoy a cozy meal of lamb soup or fish stew at a local eatery; perfect for budget travelers.
Walk from your accommodation.
ISK2000, 1 hour
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Day 3: South Coast Journey

Vik, Iceland

7:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Have a quick breakfast and prepare for an early adventure.
Catch a bus heading south.
ISK0, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Visit Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Stop to marvel at this unique waterfall that you can walk behind.
Continue on the bus to the next stop.
ISK0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Skogafoss Waterfall

Take in the views of Skogafoss, one of Iceland's biggest waterfalls, and climb the stairs for an aerial view.
20-minute walk from the bus stop.
ISK0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Soup Company in Vik

Savor warm soup served in homemade bread at this cozy spot.
10-minute walk from the waterfall.
ISK1500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Walk along this stunning beach known for its black sands and impressive basalt columns.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Coffee Break at Vik Cafe

Take a short break to relax at Vik Cafe and enjoy a coffee or tea.
Walk back to your accommodation or bus stop.
ISK800, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Smiðjan Brugghús

Enjoy a hearty meal of burgers and craft beers at this charming brewpub.
Short walk from your hostel.
ISK2800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Vik and Nature

Vik, Iceland

8:30AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a light breakfast before starting another adventure.
Prepare to hike.
ISK0, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Hiking to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Experience stunning views on this beautiful hike through the canyon, a lesser-known gem.
Catch a bus to the canyon entrance.
ISK1000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch

Pack your own sandwiches for a picnic while taking in the breathtaking canyon views.
Bring your own food or grab something local to pack.
ISK1500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Dyrhólaey Arch

Marvel at the impressive rock formation and enjoy the coastal views.
Bus back toward Vik then walk 20 minutes to the arch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Coffee at Stokkseyri

Stop for coffee at a quaint bakery and enjoy their delicious pastries.
Short bus ride back to Vik.
ISK1000, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Kria

Indulge in local dishes with a fusion twist, made from fresh ingredients.
Return to Vik town.
ISK3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland

8:30AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a final breakfast before you head back to the capital.
Gather your belongings and check out.
ISK0, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Take Bus to Reykjavik

Travel back to Reykjavik on a budget bus service, enjoying the scenic views once more.
Catch the bus from Vik's main station.
ISK3000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the National Museum of Iceland

Immerse yourself in Icelandic heritage and history through various artifacts.
Walk 15 minutes from bus drop-off to the museum.
ISK1500, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Reykjavik Fish Restaurant

Enjoy delicious fish and chips made from fresh local catches.
Stroll back towards the city center.
ISK2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Wander the streets of Reykjavik and pick up some local souvenirs to bring back home.
Explore the shops in the city center.
ISK0 (varies), 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Apotek Restaurant

Celebrate your trip with a fine dining experience featuring Icelandic specialties.
Walk to the restaurant in the heart of Reykjavik.
ISK4000, 2 hours
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