5-Day Iceland Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sandholt Bakery

Start your day with a delicious pastry and coffee from Sandholt, a local favorite known for its fresh-baked goods.
Located in the heart of Reykjavik, easily walk from your accommodation.
ISK1,800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hallgrímskirkja

Head to Hallgrímskirkja, the iconic church, and take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.
A short 15-minute walk from the bakery.
ISK1,000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Harpa Concert Hall

Next, stroll to Harpa, an architecturally stunning concert hall located by the waterfront.
It's about a 20-minute walk along the scenic waterfront.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

Indulge in the famous Icelandic hot dog at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a food stand loved by locals.
Located nearby Harpa, just a quick 10-minute walk.
ISK500, 30 minutes

1:30PM

Wander through the Old Harbor

After lunch, take a walk around the Old Harbor, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and colorful boats.
A short 10-minute stroll through the city center.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the National Museum of Iceland

Delve into Iceland’s history and culture at the National Museum, showcasing artifacts from the Viking era to modern times.
It's a 20-minute walk uphill from the harbor.
ISK1,500, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Svarta Kaffid

Enjoy a hearty soup served in a bread bowl, a local Icelandic tradition perfect for warming up.
Just a 15-minute walk from the museum.
ISK1,900, 1 hour

7:00PM

Evening Walk at Perlan

Conclude your day with a wander to Perlan, where you can enjoy beautiful sunset views over Reykjavik.
Approximately a 30-minute walk or can grab a bus.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Golden Circle Adventure

Golden Circle, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Bakery

Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or a local bakery before starting your journey.
Get supplies the previous day.
ISK1,500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Þingvellir National Park

Drive or take a bus to Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning landscapes and tectonic plate rifts.
Use the bus system or rideshare with fellow tourists.
ISK1,500 (or free if hiking), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Geysir Café

Enjoy a light lunch at Geysir Café and watch the Strokkur geyser erupt.
Just a short drive from Þingvellir.
ISK2,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Gullfoss Waterfall

Next, head to one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls, Gullfoss, where you can hear the roaring water.
A 10-minute drive from Geysir.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Secret Lagoon

Unwind at The Secret Lagoon, a natural hot spring offering a relaxed atmosphere.
Drive for about 30 minutes to reach the lagoon.
ISK3,000, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Friðheimar

Enjoy a unique dining experience in a greenhouse while tasting fresh tomato soup and homemade bread.
Just a short drive back towards Gullfoss.
ISK2,500, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Return to Reykjavik

Drive back to Reykjavik, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Aim for a direct route, around 1.5 hours back.
Free (if driving), 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey Down the South Coast

South Coast, Iceland

7:00AM

Breakfast at Grái Kötturinn

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this cozy café offering great coffee and classic dishes.
Located in downtown Reykjavik, an easy walk.
ISK1,800, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Hit the road and drive to Seljalandsfoss, a breathtaking waterfall where you can walk behind it for a unique perspective.
Head south on Route 1 for about 1.5 hours.
ISK0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Skogafoss Waterfall

Next, head to Skogafoss, another spectacular waterfall with a viewing platform for stunning views.
Continue east on Route 1 for about 30 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Hali Country Hotel

Stop for lunch at this charming country hotel featuring local Icelandic cuisine.
A quick 20-minute drive from Skogafoss.
ISK2,200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Reynisfjara Beach

Drive to Reynisfjara, famed for its black sands and dramatic basalt columns, perfect for a walk along the shoreline.
Around a 30-minute drive from Hali.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Check in to Accommodation in Vik

Find budget accommodation in the charming town of Vik to rest for the evening.
Head to your booked accommodation upon arrival.
ISK3,500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sudur Vik

Savor cozy Icelandic flavors at Sudur Vik, known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty meals.
Walk or drive to the local restaurant from your accommodation.
ISK2,800, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Walk at Vik Beach

Finish the day with an evening stroll along Vik Beach, enjoying the stunning views of the sea and cliffs.
Just a 5-minute walk from most accommodations.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Discover Vik & Surroundings

Vik, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Accommodation

Enjoy a simple breakfast provided by your guest house before heading out.
Eat before departing.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Reynisfjall Mountain

Take a morning hike around Reynisfjall Mountain for stunning views of the coastline.
Walk to the hiking trail beginning close to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Dyrhólaey Arch

Visit the impressive Dyrhólaey Arch, a natural rock arch and great place for bird-watching.
Drive for about 15 minutes to the arch.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Ice Cream Shop in Vik

Grab a delicious homemade ice cream to reward yourself after exploring.
Head back towards the town center.
ISK800, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Visit Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

Hike to the famous plane wreck on Sólheimasandur beach, an iconic photo spot.
A 45-minute hike from the parking area.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Halldorskaffi

Indulge in local seafood dishes or traditional lamb soup at Halldorskaffi, a cozy atmosphere to end your day.
Return to Vik town for dinner.
ISK2,500, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Stargazing in Vik

If the skies are clear, spend some time enjoying the beautiful night sky, perfect for spotting constellations.
Find a quiet place near your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Return to Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Accommodation

Fuel up with your final breakfast at your guest house.
Enjoy and pack for departure.
ISK0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel back to Reykjavik

Begin your journey back to Reykjavik as you reminisce about your incredible experiences.
Drive back on the scenic Route 1.
Free (if driving), 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Reykjavik Art Museum

Once back in the city, visit the Reykjavik Art Museum for contemporary Icelandic art.
Located downtown, easily accessible.
ISK1,800, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mokka Kaffi

Relish a classic Icelandic lunch at Mokka Kaffi, known for its delicious waffles and coffee.
Short walk from the museum.
ISK1,700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Free Time in Downtown Reykjavik

Enjoy some leisure time exploring shops and streets in downtown Reykjavik, shopping for souvenirs or souvenirs.
Wander freely from Mokka Kaffi.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Final Dinner at Þrír Frakkar

For your last meal in Iceland, savor traditional dishes at this beloved eatery, known for its fresh seafood.
A short walk from the downtown shopping area.
ISK3,500, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Pack and Depart

Head back to your accommodation to pack for your journey onwards, reflecting on an unforgettable trip.
Return to your accommodation a 20-minute walk back.
Free, 2 hours
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