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12-Day Adventure: Ring Road Exploration in Iceland

Viewed by 76 travelers

Day 1: Reykjavik Arrival

Reykjavik, Iceland on May 24, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Sandholt Bakery

Start your adventure with fresh pastries and artisan bread at Sandholt Bakery, a beautiful spot in the heart of Reykjavik.
Walk or drive to Sandholt Bakery in the downtown area.
ISK 2500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Hallgrímskirkja

Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and take an elevator ride to the top for panoramic views of the city.
A quick 5-minute walk from the bakery.
ISK 1200, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Icelandic Street Food

Indulge in traditional Icelandic lamb soup in a cozy food truck setting.
A short 10-minute walk from Hallgrímskirkja.
ISK 2800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Driving to Golden Circle

Pick up your rental car and head towards the Golden Circle, stopping at Þingvellir National Park first.
Drive 45 minutes to Þingvellir National Park via Route 36.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 1 hour

3:00PM

Þingvellir National Park

Explore the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
Located within the park; parking fees apply.
ISK 1,000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Friðheimar Greenhouses

Enjoy a unique dining experience with fresh tomatoes grown on-site and delicious pasta dishes.
Drive 30 minutes to Friðheimar.
ISK 4000, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Overnight in Selfoss

Stay overnight at a local guesthouse in Selfoss and prepare for the upcoming adventures.
15-minute drive from Friðheimar.
ISK 15000, Overnight
Find Hotels in Reykjavik

Day 2: Golden Circle Exploration

Golden Circle, Iceland on May 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the guesthouse to fuel up for the day.
Located in the guesthouse.
ISK 2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Geysir Geothermal Area

Visit the bubbling hot springs and witness the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes.
30-minute drive from Selfoss.
ISK 0 (Free), 1 hour

11:00AM

Gullfoss Waterfall

Marvel at the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders.
10 minutes drive from Geysir.
ISK 0 (Free), 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Gullfoss Cafe

Savor a bowl of traditional lamb soup or veggie sandwiches overlooking the falls.
Located next to the falls.
ISK 3000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kerið Crater Lake

Visit the stunning volcanic crater lake with its vibrant red and green colors.
40-minute drive from Gullfoss.
ISK 400, 1 hour

3:30PM

Drive to Vik

Head towards Vik, a charming village on the southern coast, stopping for stunning views.
Drive 1.5 hours via Route 1.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Vik

Settle into your hotel and enjoy some leisure time exploring Vik.
Hotel located in Vik.
ISK 18000, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Sudur Vik

Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Located in Vik, a walk from your hotel.
ISK 5000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Golden Circle

Day 3: Coastal Adventures

Vik, Iceland on May 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Vik

Enjoy a continental breakfast at the hotel to start the day.
In-house dining option.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Visit the stunning black sand beach with its basalt columns and dramatic ocean views.
A short 10-minute drive from the hotel.
ISK 0 (Free), 1 hour

10:30AM

Dyrhólaey Peninsula

Go to Dyrhólaey for more panoramic ocean views and a chance to see puffins during the season.
20-minute drive from Reynisfjara.
ISK 0 (Free), 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Soup Company

A casual eatery offering delicious soups served in bread bowls.
Drive back to Vik, 20 minutes.
ISK 3500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Skógafoss Waterfall

Visit the magnificent Skógafoss, one of Iceland's largest and most picturesque waterfalls.
30-minute drive from Vik.
ISK 0 (Free), 1 hour

3:00PM

Ride Icelandic Horses

Experience the unique Icelandic horse ride through beautiful landscapes.
Ride a few minutes from Skógafoss, pre-book needed.
ISK 8000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at a local Bistro

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes with Icelandic ingredients in a cozy setting.
Return to Vik for dinner.
ISK 5500, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Vik

Day 4: Glaciers & Icebergs

Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland on May 27, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Vik

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
From hotel restaurant.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Vatnajokull National Park

Leave Vik to head towards Vatnajokull, Iceland's largest national park, a must-see for nature lovers.
Drive via Route 1, approx. 2 hours.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 2 hours

10:30AM

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Marvel at floating icebergs in this stunning glacier lagoon – a photographer's paradise.
Located within the Vatnajokull area.
ISK 0 (Free), 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Jökulsárlón Cafe

Enjoy a quick lunch at the cafe with views of the lagoon, ideal for grabbing a sandwich or soup.
Located adjacent to the lagoon.
ISK 4000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Diamond Beach

Stroll along Diamond Beach where glistening icebergs wash ashore, creating a surreal landscape.
5-minute walk from the lagoon.
ISK 0 (Free), 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Svartifoss Waterfall

Hike to this stunning waterfall framed by black basalt columns in Vatnajokull.
Drive to the nearby Vatnajokull Visitor Centre, then hike 1.5 km.
ISK 0 (Free), 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Hofn

Arrive in Hofn and check into your hotel for the night.
Drive 1 hour from Vatnajokull.
ISK 16000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hafnarbuðin

Enjoy local seafood specialties, including fresh lobster, at this popular restaurant.
Located in Hofn.
ISK 6000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Vatnajokull National Park

Day 5: Coastal Charm

Hofn, Iceland on May 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Hofn

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Djupivogur

Travel along the scenic coastline towards the charming fishing village of Djupivogur.
Drive approximately 1 hour along Route 1.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Djupivogur

Wander through this picturesque village, famous for its charming houses and outdoor art installations.
Walking tour of the village.
ISK 0 (Free), 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Cafe Edinborg

Indulge in a quick bite at this local cafe known for its homemade pastries and coffee.
Located in Djupivogur.
ISK 3500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive to Egilsstadir

Journey to Egilsstadir, the capital of East Iceland, for your next adventure.
1 hour drive via Route 1.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 1 hour

2:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Egilsstadir

Arrive in Egilsstadir and check into your accommodation.
Local hotel in town.
ISK 15000, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Seydisfjordur

Take a scenic drive to the picturesque town of Seydisfjordur surrounded by mountains.
Drive 30 minutes over mountain pass.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Szymon’s Restaurant

Savor locally sourced dishes inspired by Icelandic flavors at this renowned eatery.
Located in Seydisfjordur.
ISK 5000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hofn

Day 6: East Fjords Wonders

Egilsstadir, Iceland on May 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Egilsstadir

Enjoy a full breakfast at the hotel before your day of exploring.
In-house breakfast.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hengifoss Waterfall

Hike to Hengifoss, Iceland's second highest waterfall surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Drive approximately 30 minutes from Egilsstadir.
ISK 0 (Free), 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Tehusio

Enjoy a cozy lunch at this local café known for its amazing soups and homemade cakes.
Return to Egilsstadir for lunch.
ISK 3800, 1 hour

1:00PM

Egilsstadir Town Walk

Take a leisurely stroll in Egilsstadir, exploring local shops and the beautiful surroundings.
Walking in Egilsstadir town center.
ISK 0 (Free), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Drive to Akureyri

Continue your journey to Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, stopping along the way to take in the scenery.
Drive approximately 2.5 hours via Route 1.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Hotel Akureyri

Arrive in Akureyri and check into your hotel.
Located in the city.
ISK 16000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Strikið

Savour local Icelandic dishes while enjoying views over Akureyri, an unforgettable dining experience.
Few minutes walk from hotel.
ISK 6000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Egilsstadir

Day 7: North Iceland Exploration

Akureyri, Iceland on May 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Akureyri

Start the day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel before heading out.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Goðafoss Waterfall

Visit Goðafoss, one of Iceland's most spectacular waterfalls celebrated for its beauty.
Drive approximately 30 minutes from Akureyri.
ISK 0 (Free), 1 hour

11:00AM

Lake Mývatn

Discover the unique geological formations and rich birdlife around Lake Mývatn.
Drive approximately 1 hour from Goðafoss.
ISK 0 (Free), 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Vogafjós Farm Resort

Experience delicious farm-to-table dining on-site while enjoying views of Lake Mývatn.
Located near Lake Mývatn.
ISK 4500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Mývatn Nature Baths

Relax in the geothermal Mývatn Nature Baths, a perfect spot to unwind.
Drive a few minutes from the restaurant.
ISK 5500, 2 hours

4:30PM

Húsavík Whale Watching Tour

Join an unforgettable whale watching tour from Húsavík, known as the whale capital of Iceland.
Drive approximately 1 hour to Húsavík harbor.
ISK 12000, 3 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Húsavík Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring fresh fish and other local dishes at this popular eatery.
Located in Húsavík town.
ISK 7000, 1.5 hours

10:00PM

Drive Back to Akureyri

Return to Akureyri and rest for the night.
Drive back via Route 1, about 1 hour.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 1 hour
Find Hotels in Akureyri

Day 8: Lake Wonders

Mývatn, Iceland on May 31, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Akureyri

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Hotel before another day of exploration.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hike in Dimmuborgir

Explore the massive lava formations and unique landscapes in Dimmuborgir, perfect for hiking.
Drive about 30 minutes to the park.
ISK 0 (Free), 2 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Dimmuborgir Cafe

Enjoy a nice lunch at the café in Dimmuborgir, featuring local dishes.
Located within the park.
ISK 3500, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit Grjótagjá Cave

Visit the stunning hot spring cave, known for its crystal-clear waters.
Short drive from Dimmuborgir.
ISK 0 (Free), 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Húsavík

Stroll through the charming town of Húsavík, soaking in the maritime atmosphere.
Drive back to Húsavík, around 1 hour.
ISK 0 (Free), 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Depart from Húsavík and head to the scenic Snæfellsnes Peninsula for the next adventure.
Drive about 4 hours via Route 1.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 4 hours

8:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Snæfellsnes

Settle into your hotel on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Located in the area.
ISK 16000, 1 hour

9:00PM

Dinner at Bjargarsteinn

Indulge in delicious seafood meals while enjoying beautiful views of the peninsula.
Located near your accommodation.
ISK 6000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mývatn

Day 9: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Highlights

Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland on June 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Snæfellsnes

Savor breakfast at your hotel before exploring the national park.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Snæfellsjökull National Park

A day of outdoor adventure awaits as you hike, enjoy views of the glacier, and explore the unique landscapes.
Located within the national park; park fees may apply.
ISK 0 (Free), 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Café Elli

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a café with local dishes inspired by the nearby ocean.
In the town near the park; short drive.
ISK 4000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Arnarstapi

Explore the charming coastal village of Arnarstapi with its unique rock formations.
Drive 30 minutes along the coast.
ISK 0 (Free), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Londrangar Basalt Cliffs

Marvel at the striking basalt cliffs that rise dramatically from the ocean.
Short drive from Arnarstapi.
ISK 0 (Free), 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Snaps Bistro

Enjoy exquisite cuisine at this popular bistro with local flavors.
Located near your hotel.
ISK 7000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Day 10: Return to Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland on June 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Snæfellsnes

Begin your day with a nutritious breakfast before the drive back.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive Back to Reykjavik

Return to the capital by driving approximately 2.5 hours along the scenic Route 1.
Drive via Route 1.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Hotel Reykjavik

Arrive and check-in at your hotel in Reykjavik.
Located in the city center.
ISK 18000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Reykjavik Fish Restaurant

Eat fresh fish served in a cozy setting, known for its unique twists on traditional dishes.
Located downtown Reykjavik.
ISK 6000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Harpa Concert Hall

Explore the stunning architecture of Harpa and perhaps catch a performance.
Short walk from the restaurant.
ISK 0 (Free), 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Laugavegur Shopping Street

Stroll along the famous shopping street experiencing local boutiques and cafés.
Take a short walk to Laugavegur.
ISK 0 (Free), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Grillmarkaðurinn

Enjoy gourmet Icelandic cuisine with local flavors right in the city center.
Located in downtown Reykjavik.
ISK 7000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Reykjavik

Day 11: Blue Lagoon Relaxation

Reykjavik, Iceland on June 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Reykjavik

Fuel up for a day of relaxation with breakfast at the hotel.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit to Blue Lagoon

Spend the day relaxing at the famous Blue Lagoon, enjoying the warm geothermal waters.
Book transportation or drive approximately 45 minutes via Route 43.
ISK 10000, 5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Blue Lagoon’s Restaurant

Savor delicious dishes featuring local ingredients, all while enjoying the scenic view.
Located on-site at Blue Lagoon.
ISK 5000, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Reykjavik

Head back to your hotel after a day of rejuvenation.
Drive back via Route 43.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 45 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Reykjavik Street Food

Wrap up your journey with delicious street food favorites in a lively atmosphere.
Return to downtown Reykjavik.
ISK 4000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Reykjavik

Day 12: Farewell & Departure

Reykjavik, Iceland on June 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Reykjavik

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before departing.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Explore local shops for unique Icelandic souvenirs to remember your trip.
Short walking distance from the hotel.
ISK 0 (Free), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-out from Hotel

Prepare to check out of the hotel and head to the airport.
Pack and settle your bill.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 30 minutes

12:00PM

Transfer to Keflavik Airport

Travel to the airport for your departure flight.
Book airport transfer or drive, around 45 minutes.
ISK 0 (Transport only), 1 hour
Find Hotels in Reykjavik
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