Seven Days of Icelandic Adventures: Volcanoes and Northern Lights

  • Day 1: The Reykjavik Art Scene
    15 minutes (7.2 kilometers) from Keflavik International Airport

    Begin your journey through Icelandic culture with a visit to the Reykjavik Art Museum. With various exhibitions of contemporary and modern Icelandic art, the museum offers a glimpse into Iceland's creative side. Next, visit the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, which features design inspired by the Icelandic landscape, and hosts various music, theatre and cultural events throughout the year.

  • Day 2: Thingvellir National Park and The Great Geysir
    Approximately 1 hour (50 kilometers) from Reykjavik

    Take a tour of Thingvellir National Park, a site of incredible geological and historical significance. Stand between two tectonic plates that are gradually moving apart and learn about their geological features. Afterward, visit The Great Geysir, an active geothermal field with hot springs and geysers that spout water and steam high into the air. Watch erupting geysers and experience the power of the earth under your feet at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Day 3: The Blue Lagoon
    45 minutes (49 kilometers) from Reykjavik

    Explore Iceland's most famous geothermal spa in the middle of a lava field. Soak in the geothermal pools surrounded by the beautiful scenery typical of Iceland. Relax in the warm water with its unique combination of minerals for a rejuvenating escape. Reserve your ticket in advance, as this popular attraction often sells out.

  • Day 4: Akureyri City and Hof Cultural Center
    1 hour and 30 minutes (380 kilometers) from Reykjavik

    Journey north to Akureyri, the second-largest city in Iceland, and explore its vibrant culture with a visit to the Hof Cultural Center. The center hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year, including music, theatre, and art. Be sure to stop at the iconic Akureyrarkirkja church, a stunning landmark with towering spires.

  • Day 5: The Skogafoss Waterfall and Vik Beach
    2 hours and 10 minutes (150 kilometers) from Akureyri

    Visit the Skogafoss waterfall, one of the largest and most beautiful in Iceland, with a 60-meter drop that crashes into the pool below. Continue on to the black sand beach of Vik, a stunning sight with its dark brown sand and towering cliffs. Take in the otherworldly scenery and join a guided glacier hike to experience the true majesty of Iceland's natural beauty.

  • Day 6: The Aurora Borealis and Hella Town
    2 hours (114 kilometers) from Vik

    Experience the magic of the Northern Lights by joining a guided tour to hunt for them in Iceland's vibrant night skies. The town of Hella offers a view that is unspoiled by light pollution and has the best chances to spot them during winter. Be sure to bring your camera and warm clothing to enjoy the show in these spectacular surroundings.

  • Day 7: Reykjavik Food Tour and Shopping
    1 hour and 10 minutes (95 kilometers) from Hella

    Culminate your Icelandic cultural immersion with a food tour of Reykjavik. From traditional Icelandic dishes to international cuisine, sample the flavors of Iceland's food scene. Afterward, explore Reykjavik's colorful streets and boutiques and return home with both cultural and gastronomic memories to cherish.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Reykjavik Art Museum (1-2 hours, ISK 2,300)
  • Harpa Concert Hall (30 minutes-1 hour, Free)
  • Thingvellir National Park (2-3 hours, ISK 1,200 per person)
  • The Great Geysir (1-2 hours, ISK 800 per person)
  • The Blue Lagoon (3-4 hours, ISK 6,990 per person)
  • Hof Cultural Center (1-2 hours, ISK 1,500 per person)
  • Skogafoss Waterfall (1-2 hours, Free)
  • Vik Beach (2-3 hours, Free)
  • The Aurora Borealis Tour (2-3 hours, ISK 17,990 per person)
  • Reykjavik Food Tour (2-3 hours, ISK 12,000 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ISK 44,780

Transportation

Most of the sites listed have public transport. However, renting a car with GPS navigation is recommended to explore the countryside for complete cultural immersion in this itinerary. Travel expenses may range from ISK 20,000-100,000 (Depending on rented car and gas)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to Snaefellsnes. This beautifully diverse peninsula in Western Iceland is home to glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and whale watching opportunities. If you have less time, eliminate Day 4 or Day 6 to make it a 5-6 day trip.

Airports

The main airport serving Iceland is Keflavik International Airport (KEF) located 50 kilometers from Reykjavik City Center. Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) is used mostly for domestic flights and is located just outside the city center.

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