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12-Day Northern Lights Adventure in Iceland

Viewed by 73 travelers

Day 1: Arriving in Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland

10:00AM

Explore Reykjavik

Start your adventure with a stroll through the colorful streets of Reykjavik, visiting iconic sites like Hallgrimskirkja and Harpa Concert Hall.
Walking distance between locations in Reykjavik.
ISK0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Svarta Kaffid

Enjoy a hearty soup in a bread bowl at Svarta Kaffid, a charming eatery in downtown Reykjavik.
Short walk from Hallgrimskirkja.
ISK2000, 1 hour

3:00PM

National Museum of Iceland

Dive into Iceland’s rich history at the National Museum, filled with artifacts that tell the story of the Viking heritage.
Drive or taxi from downtown Reykjavik.
ISK1500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Grillmarkadurinn

Taste Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist at this popular grill restaurant, serving everything from lamb to seafood.
Short ride back to the city center.
ISK6000, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Northern Lights Tour

Join a guided tour to chase the Northern Lights, aiming to catch their brilliant dance across the Arctic skies.
Pickup usually arranged by tour company.
ISK12000, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Reykjavik

Day 2: Golden Circle Tour

Golden Circle, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Loki

Fuel up with a traditional breakfast at Café Loki, known for its unique Icelandic dishes.
Make your way to Café Loki by car or on foot.
ISK2500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Thingvellir National Park

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
Drive from Reykjavik to Thingvellir (about 40 minutes).
ISK0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Geysir Center

Savor a quick bite at the Geysir Center, where you can enjoy local dishes before heading to see the geysers.
Drive from Thingvellir to Geysir (1 hour).
ISK3000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Geysir Geothermal Area

Witness the Strokkur geyser erupting up to 30 meters high every few minutes.
Short walk from the dining area.
ISK0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Gullfoss Waterfall

Marvel at the majestic waterfall known as the 'Golden Falls', which cascades down in a dramatic two-stage drop.
Drive from Geysir (about 10 minutes).
ISK0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Friðheimar

Enjoy fresh tomato-based dishes in a unique greenhouse restaurant.
Drive from Gullfoss to Friðheimar (about 30 minutes).
ISK4500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Reykjavik

Head back to Reykjavik for a restful night after an exciting day.
Drive back to Reykjavik (about 1.5 hours).
ISK0, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Golden Circle

Day 3: South Coast Expedition

Vik, Iceland

7:30AM

Breakfast at Sandholt Bakery

Start your day with delicious pastries and coffee at this beloved local bakery.
Drive from your accommodation to the bakery (15 mins).
ISK2000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Seljalandsfoss

Explore this stunning waterfall where you can walk behind the curtain of water for a unique perspective.
Drive from Reykjavik to Seljalandsfoss (1 hour 45 mins).
ISK0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Skogafoss

Another iconic waterfall, Skogafoss is known for its impressive drop and is a great spot for photography.
Short drive (30 mins) to Skogafoss.
ISK0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Soup Company

Enjoy a cozy lunch with delicious soups at The Soup Company, well-known among locals.
Drive to Vik (30 mins).
ISK2500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Experience the unique landscape of Reynisfjara, with its dramatic black sand, basalt columns, and sea stacks.
Short drive (20 mins) from Vik.
ISK0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-In at Hotel in Vik

Relax and get settled into your accommodation before dinner.
Drive back to Vik (20 mins).
ISK0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Katla Eddas Restaurant

Indulge in traditional Icelandic fare at this cozy but modern restaurant.
Short walk from your hotel.
ISK4000, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Northern Lights Viewing

With your perfect location, gaze at the Northern Lights right from Vik, a wonderful way to end the day.
You can view it from your hotel or a nearby location.
ISK0, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Vik

Day 4: South Coast Continued

Skaftafell National Park, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel in Vik

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before the adventure continues.
No travel required.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking in Skaftafell National Park

Take on a scenic hike exploring glaciers and beautiful landscapes in this stunning national park.
Drive from Vik to Skaftafell (40 mins).
ISK0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the Visitor Center Café

Refuel with a wholesome meal at the park's visitor center café.
On-site at Skaftafell.
ISK2500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Witness the breathtaking beauty of floating icebergs at Jökulsárlón, a must-see when in Iceland.
Short drive (30 mins) from Skaftafell.
ISK0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hali Country Hotel

Enjoy local cuisine with incredible views of the surroundings in this charming countryside hotel.
Drive from Jökulsárlón back to Hali (15 mins).
ISK4500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Northern Lights Tour at Jökulsárlón

Take a guided tour at Jökulsárlón to search for Northern Lights, witnessing them over the serene glacier lagoon.
Tour company will arrange pickup.
ISK12000, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Skaftafell National Park

Day 5: Exploring the East

Jökulsárlón, Iceland to Akureyri

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start the day with an Icelandic breakfast buffet at Hali Country Hotel.
No travel needed.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Akureyri

Begin the scenic drive up to Akureyri, enjoying striking landscapes along the route.
Drive from Jökulsárlón to Akureyri (4 hours).
ISK0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at KFC Akureyri

Grab a quick, familiar meal at KFC after your journey.
Located conveniently in the city center.
ISK2000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Akureyri Botanical Gardens

Visit the beautiful botanical gardens that display native and exotic plants, a lovely spot to relax.
Short drive or walk from the city center.
ISK0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Check into Hotel Akureyri

Unwind and get settled in your hotel in Akureyri.
Short ride from the botanical gardens.
ISK0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Strikið

Enjoy scenic views and delicious dishes made from fresh local ingredients.
Short walk from your hotel.
ISK5500, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Northern Lights Viewing

Look out for the Northern Lights from the proximity of Akureyri as you enjoy your evening.
Can view from the city or short drive out of the light pollution area.
ISK0, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Jökulsárlón

Day 6: Exploring North Iceland

Lake Mývatn, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Akureyri before heading out for the day.
No travel needed.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lake Mývatn

Embark on a drive to Lake Mývatn, known for its unique lava formations and abundant birdlife.
Drive from Akureyri to Lake Mývatn (1 hour).
ISK0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Mývatn Nature Baths

Relax in the geothermal baths of Mývatn, soaking in the natural hot springs with stunning views.
On-site at Mývatn.
ISK4500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Við Fjöruborðið

Enjoy a seafood feast at this charming coastal restaurant, famous for its lobster soup.
Drive to the restaurant (1 hour).
ISK4500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Dimmuborgir Lava Fields

Explore the otherworldly lava formations and trails at Dimmuborgir, an amazing geological site.
Short drive (15 mins) from the restaurant.
ISK0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Check into Hotel in Mývatn

Relax and unwind at your hotel after a day of exploration.
A short drive nearby.
ISK0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Gamli Bær

Dine on traditional Icelandic fare in a rustic atmosphere at this charming eatery.
Short drive from your hotel.
ISK4000, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Northern Lights Hunting

Take a short drive out of the light pollution to enjoy spectacular views of the Aurora Borealis!
Tools can be rented for better viewing.
ISK0, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Mývatn

Day 7: Whale Watching at Húsavík

Húsavík, Iceland

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have a hearty breakfast before embarking on your next adventure.
No travel needed.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Húsavík

Take a scenic drive to Húsavík, considered the whale watching capital of Iceland.
Drive from Mývatn to Húsavík (1 hour).
ISK0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Whale Watching Tour

Experience an unforgettable tour to see magnificent whales in their natural habitat.
Tours are organized from the harbor.
ISK10000, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Húsavík Harbour Restaurant

Replenish after your adventure with fresh seafood or traditional Icelandic dishes.
On the harbor after the whale watching tour.
ISK4000, 1 hour

3:30PM

Húsavík Whale Museum

Learn about whales and the local marine life at this insightful museum after your lunch.
Short walk from the restaurant.
ISK1500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Drive back to Mývatn

Return to Mývatn, taking in more beautiful scenery along the way.
Drive (1 hour).
ISK0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at your hotel in Mývatn

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel after a day full of activity.
No travel required.
ISK0, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Aurora Viewing

Head out for another experience with the Northern Lights, enjoying the clear skies of North Iceland.
Drive away from light pollution if necessary.
ISK0, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Húsavík

Day 8: Cultural Exploration

Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before leaving Mývatn.
No travel needed.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Embark on a drive to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called 'Iceland in Miniature'.
Drive from Mývatn to Snæfellsnes Peninsula (4 hours).
ISK0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Bjargarsteinn

Dine at this oceanfront restaurant known for using local ingredients.
Located in the vicinity of Snæfellsnes.
ISK4000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Kirkjufell Mountain

Marvel at the iconic mountain and its picturesque waterfall, a popular photo op.
Short drive (30 mins) from Bjargarsteinn.
ISK0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check into Hotel on Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Settle into your accommodation and relax for a while before dinner.
Drive from Kirkjufell (30 mins).
ISK0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Branda

Enjoy a delightful dining experience with exquisite views of the Snæfellsnes landscape.
Short drive from your hotel.
ISK5000, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Northern Lights Viewing

Take to the outdoors to catch another glimpse of the Northern Lights on the peninsula.
Make your way to an open area away from city lights.
ISK0, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Day 9: Exploring the Peninsula

Borgarnes, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast before exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
No travel required.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Snæfellsjökull National Park

Explore majestic landscapes, volcanic craters, and stunning coastlines within this national park.
Drive from Snæfellsnes Peninsula (30 mins).
ISK0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Snæfellsnes Café

Dine on local dishes in this quaint café after your national park visit.
Located within the peninsula.
ISK3500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Reykholt

Step into history by exploring the medieval site of Reykholt, home to historic literary figures.
Short drive (45 mins) from Snæfellsnes Café.
ISK0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check into Hotel in Borgarnes

Relax in your hotel after an exciting day of exploration.
Drive onto Borgarnes (30 mins).
ISK0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Borgarnes Settlement Center Café

Enjoy local dishes and learn about the history of the settlement over dinner.
Just a short walk from your hotel.
ISK3000, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Northern Lights Watch

Find a dark spot in Borgarnes to enjoy the wonder of the Northern Lights.
Recommended locations provided by hotel.
ISK0, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Borgarnes

Day 10: Return to Reykjavik

Reykholt, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before departing Borgarnes.
No travel needed.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Reykjavik

Head back to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, allowing you to visit any sights you missed.
Drive from Borgarnes to Reykjavik (1 hour).
ISK0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Reykjavik

Spend your free time exploring more of Reykjavik, visiting any spots you missed during the first day.
Walking distance or short drives can be taken.
ISK0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ramen Momo

Grab a lunch of delicious ramen at Ramen Momo, a local favorite.
Drive or walk in around the center.
ISK2800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Perlan Museum

Experience the wonders of Icelandic nature and culture through interactive exhibits.
Short drive or taxi from your lunch spot.
ISK3500, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check into Hotel in Reykjavik

Take time to settle into your accommodation back in Reykjavik.
Return drive from Perlan.
ISK0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Tapas Barinn

Indulge in a variety of Icelandic tapas for dinner at this lively restaurant.
Drive or walk from your hotel.
ISK6000, 2 hours

9:00PM

Last Northern Lights View

Take one final chance to see the Northern Lights from a less light-polluted area out of the city.
Check with your hotel for nearby spots.
ISK0, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Reykholt

Day 11: Explore the Culture

Reykjavik, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before your day of culture in Reykjavik.
No travel needed.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Harpa Concert Hall

Explore this architectural gem that's also a cultural center for concerts and events.
Short walk from downtown Reykjavik.
ISK0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Reykjavik Art Museum

Dive into the vibrant art scene of Iceland by visiting this contemporary art museum.
Short walk from Harpa.
ISK2000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Laundromat Café

Grab a casual lunch in a cozy, quirky atmosphere at Laundromat Café.
Short walk from the museum.
ISK2000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Shopping & Souvenir Hunting

Spend some free time shopping and picking up souvenirs from Reykjavik's best shops.
Walking distance through downtown.
ISK0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Kol Restaurant

Enjoy a modern twist on traditional Icelandic dishes at Kol Restaurant.
Short walk from shopping area.
ISK6000, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Relax at Blue Lagoon

Unwind in the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, indulging in its therapeutic waters.
Drive or organized transport from Reykjavik (45 mins).
ISK6000, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Reykjavik

Day 12: Departure Day

Reykjavik, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast before departure.
No travel needed.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Pack & Check Out

Prepare for your departure and check out of the hotel.
No travel needed.
ISK0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Last-minute Sightseeing

Spend a little extra time sightseeing or grabbing last-minute souvenirs in Reykjavik.
Short walks or drives where needed.
ISK0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

Grab a famous Icelandic hot dog as a farewell to Iceland at this popular street stall.
Located centrally in Reykjavik.
ISK800, 30 mins

2:00PM

Drive to Airport

Make your way to the airport for your departing flight.
Drive from downtown Reykjavik to Keflavik International Airport (45 mins).
ISK0, 45 mins
Find Hotels in Reykjavik
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