6-Day Shoestring Adventure Itinerary for Iceland

Day 1: Explore Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland

9:00AM

Hallgrímskirkja

Start your Icelandic adventure with a visit to Hallgrímskirkja, an iconic church that offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.
Head towards the city center and walk to the church located at Skólavörðuholt.
ISK1000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Harpa Concert Hall

Visit the stunning Harpa Concert Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its unique architectural design and vibrant glass facade.
A short 15-minute walk from Hallgrímskirkja.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Sun Voyager

Stroll down to the waterfront to see the Sun Voyager sculpture, a dreamboat that symbolizes discovery and exploration.
A 10-minute walk from Harpa.
Free, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Laugavegur Street

Spend the afternoon exploring Laugavegur Street, Reykjavík's main shopping street filled with unique stores, cafes, and galleries.
15-minute walk from the Sun Voyager.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Perlan

Visit Perlan, a captivating building with exhibitions on natural wonders and a view deck featuring a 360-degree view of the city.
Drive or take a taxi to Perlan, about a 10-minute journey.
ISK4500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Golden Circle Tour

Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Iceland

8:00AM

Þingvellir National Park

Start your day at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable spot for witnessing tectonic plate movements.
Drive from Reykjavík to Þingvellir, about 45 minutes.
ISK1000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Geysir Geothermal Area

Visit the Geysir Geothermal Area and see the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes in a spectacular display.
45-minute drive from Þingvellir to Geysir.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Gullfoss Waterfall

Marvel at the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall, which cascades into a deep canyon, particularly breathtaking in the winter months.
A 10-minute drive from Geysir to Gullfoss.
ISK300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kerid Crater

Visit Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater lake with striking red and green hues surrounding the vibrant blue water.
A 30-minute drive from Gullfoss.
ISK400, 45 minutes

5:00PM

Selfoss

Head to Selfoss, a charming village where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll before settling in for the night.
A 30-minute drive from Kerid to Selfoss.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Selfoss & Hella Exploration

Selfoss, Hella, Iceland

9:00AM

Selfoss Waterfall

Explore the tranquil Selfoss Waterfall just outside the town, a lovely little nature spot ideal for some peaceful moments.
Drive 15 minutes to Selfoss Waterfall, just north of town.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Hella area hikes

Discover the beautiful landscapes in and around Hella, with multiple trails offering unique views of the surrounding scenery.
Drive 20 minutes south to Hella.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Secret Lagoon

Relax in the natural hot springs at the Secret Lagoon, the oldest swimming pool in Iceland.
A 30-minute drive from Hella.
ISK3000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Gullfoss Café

Enjoy the ambiance at the Gullfoss Café where you can take in the beautiful views while unwinding from a packed day.
Drive back; 30-minute journey from Secret Lagoon.
ISK2000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Coastal Adventure in Vík

Vík, Iceland

8:00AM

Black Sand Beach (Reynisfjara)

Start the day at Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach known for its stunning basalt columns and powerful waves.
Drive from Selfoss to Vík, about 1.5 hours.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Dyrhólaey

Take in breathtaking viewpoints at Dyrhólaey, a promontory offering panoramic sea views and puffin sightings during summer.
A 20-minute drive from Reynisfjara.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Vík Village

Explore the quaint Vík village and its charming church with a stunning backdrop of looming cliffs.
A 10-minute drive from Dyrhólaey.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Skogafoss Waterfall

Head to Skogafoss Waterfall, one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland, with an impressive drop and a chance to climb to the top.
A 30-minute drive from Vík.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner in Vík

Wrap up the day with a meal at a local eatery, enjoying the preferred cuisine while discussing your experiences.
Return drive to Vík.
ISK2000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Plane Wreck & Beaches

Sólheimasandur, Vík, Iceland

8:00AM

Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

Begin your day with a trek to the famous Sólheimasandur plane wreck, an incredible photo opportunity sitting on a barren black sand beach.
Drive from Vík to Sólheimasandur parking area, about 20 minutes, then walk approximately 1 hour to the wreck.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks

Visit the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, steeped in folklore - perfect for capturing iconic photos against the roaring ocean surf.
Drive back to Reynisfjara; approximately 15-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch in Vík

Take some time to relax and savor the local food before contemplating your scenic journey back.
Drive back to Vík Village.
ISK1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive back to Reykjavík

Embark on your journey back to Reykjavík, reflecting on the stunning scenery experienced throughout your trip.
Drive from Vík to Reykjavík, approximately 2.5 hours.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Explore local neighborhoods

Once back in Reykjavík, take some time to wander through the city's vibrant neighborhoods and indulge in the artistic ambiance.
A simple drive through the city streets.
Free, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Final Day Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland

9:00AM

Perlan Museum

Visit the Perlan Museum if not toured earlier, featuring fascinating exhibitions about Iceland’s natural wonders.
Drive to Perlan; close to the city center.
ISK1500, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

National Museum of Iceland

Discover Iceland’s rich history and culture at the National Museum, which provides a comprehensive overview of the island's heritage.
Drive 15 minutes from Perlan.
ISK2000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Last-minute shopping

Spend your final hours enjoying some last-minute shopping for Icelandic crafts and souvenirs to take home.
Return to Laugavegur Street.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Departure

Prepare for departure, reflecting on an unforgettable adventure through Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Head to the airport; about a 45-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability