The Perfect 7-Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

Iceland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, other world experiences, and unique culture that brings travelers from around the world. This secluded island has everything from powerful waterfalls and ancient glaciers to geothermal hot springs and volcanic landscapes. If you want to get the most out of your trip to Iceland, this comprehensive itinerary will guide you through some of the most iconic spots and hidden gems, for a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Before you get there, make sure to also check out my Essential Iceland Travel Tips and my Iceland List on the Flaire App for an easy to follow list of my itinerary!

Best Way to Get Around Iceland

For a true Icelandic adventure, I highly recommend exploring the country by renting a camper van or car, giving you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and stay close to nature. We used GoCamper for our trip, and found their camper vans comfortable, modern, and well-equipped for the island’s unpredictable weather. We made sure to get a 4x4 car (a must for traveling on some of the gravel roads) with the heater for the cold nights, and the comfy package that came with everything we needed to sleep comfortably and cook simple meals

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 If you prefer a traditional car rental, reputable companies like Sixt, Budget, and Blue Car Rental are all right at the airport and offer a wide selection of vehicles suitable for Iceland’s rugged roads, from compact cars for travel between cities to sturdy 4x4s ready for the highlands. Whichever option you choose, booking in advance is recommended to secure the best vehicle for your journey.

This itinerary will guide you through some of the most iconic spots and hidden gems, ensuring a perfect week of Icelandic exploration. I've included a lot each day, since I typically start my days early, so you can divide it across more days if you'd like! Here's a day-by-day breakdown of the ultimate Iceland road trip.

Day 1-2: Exploring Reykjavik's Culture and Charm

Start your Icelandic adventure with 1-2 relaxing days in Reykjavik. There are definitely campgrounds where you can park a camper van around the city, but we decided to stay at Center Klopp Hotel and catch up on sleep before embarking on the roadtrip. If you plan on staying in the camper the entire time, arrange for pickup at Keflavik, otherwise you can take the bus to the city center and then pick up from the Reykjavik office.

Check Out A Hot Spring

The Blue Lagoon is Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, which I consider a must for visiting Iceland, but I would save it for the very end of the trip for a relaxing finale that also happens to be close to the airport.

If you want to experience multiple hot springs while you're in Iceland, I'd recommend booking Sky Lagoon or Hvammsvik Hot Springs. If you want to avoid the crowds, get the earliest opening slot.

Reykjavik Foodie Tour

A guided foodie tour through Reykjavik offers (in my opinion) the best introduction to Icelandic cuisine. These tours typically include stops at local restaurants, cafes, and specialty shops where you'll sample traditional dishes like fermented shark, dried fish, and Icelandic hot dogs. I'd highly recommend the Wake Up Reykjavik Food Tour - they picked 5 great places that were actually on our list to check out and it was so nice being able to sample a smaller amount of popular dishes and also cutting the big lines outside since the tour has reserved space already. I'd recommend having this at the beginning of your trip so you don't repeat restaurants!

ATV Twin Peaks Tour

The Safari Quads ATV Twin Peaks adventure takes you through some of Iceland's rugged landscapes on powerful all-terrain vehicles. This tour specifically includes rides through lava fields, mountain trails, and scenic valleys while offering spectacular views of Reykjavik and the surrounding countryside. It's an adrenaline-pumping way to experience Iceland's diverse terrain up close and since it was a small group, we had extra time at the end to do more riding.

Here we’re some more of our highlights to add to your Reykjavik list:

• Grab some pastries or breakfast at Baka Baka, one of Reykjavik's beloved cafes. This cozy spot serves up freshly baked pastries, artisanal bread, and hands down the best french toast I've ever had.

• Stop by Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, an iconic hot dog stand and a must-visit for a taste of a traditional Icelandic hot dog. Known for its unique blend of lamb, pork, and beef, topped with crispy onions, sweet mustard, and remoulade, It's an authentic and delicious experience you can’t miss when exploring Reykjavik. And it's probably the most affordable meal there!

• Kirsuberjatréð Art Gallery showcases contemporary Icelandic art in an intimate setting. This gallery frequently rotates exhibitions featuring local artists, offering visitors a glimpse into Iceland's thriving creative scene.

• Reykjavik's Rainbow Street (Skólavörðustígur) is a colorful pedestrian street that leads up to Hallgrímskirkja church. The street is lined with charming shops, cafes, and boutiques selling Icelandic wool sweaters, unique jewelry, and local crafts. 

• Kolaportið Flea Market is Iceland's largest flea market, operating on weekends in a large warehouse near the harbor. It's a must for thrifting lovers.

• Skál! is a modern Icelandic restaurant that celebrates local ingredients and traditional cooking methods with a contemporary twist. Their menu features dishes like fresh seafood, grass-fed lamb, and seasonal vegetables sourced from Icelandic farms. 

• Rublan Bokakaffi is a unique bookstore, cafe, and pub all combined into one. They have live music every night of the week and the band was actually amazing.

• Íslenski Barinn (The Icelandic Bar) is a traditional pub that celebrates Icelandic culture through its decor, music, and drink selection. The bar features an extensive collection of Icelandic beers and spirits, along with traditional foods.

• Cafe Loki specializes in traditional Icelandic cuisine, offering dishes that showcase the country's culinary heritage. Their menu includes items like rye bread ice cream (so good!!!), fermented shark, and various preparations of dried fish.

• Daisy Cocktail Bar is a sophisticated cocktail lounge known for its creative drinks and intimate atmosphere. The bartenders craft innovative cocktails using local ingredients like birch syrup, crowberries, and Icelandic spirits.

• Perlan is Reykjavik's distinctive dome-shaped building with a revolving restaurant offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The restaurant serves modern Icelandic cuisine while slowly rotating to provide 360-degree views of Reykjavik, the harbor, and distant mountains.

If you’re planning on spending more time in Reykjavik, check out my Reykjavik City Guide or my Iceland list on Flaire

Day 3: Horses, Waterfalls, and Peninsula Magic

If you haven't picked up your rental car yet, grab breakfast in the city, pick up your choice of vehicle, grab some basic groceries and start heading north!

Sturlureykir Horse Farm offers authentic experiences with Iceland's famous horses, known for their gentle temperament and unique five-gaited movement. Whether you choose horseback riding through scenic landscapes or a farm tour learning about Icelandic horses on this family run farm, this experience provides insight into an important aspect of Icelandic culture and heritage.

Next, drive down to Hraunfossar, meaning "lava waterfalls," is a series of gentle cascades emerging from beneath a lava field over nearly a kilometer stretch. Barnafoss, or "children's falls," is located at the same spot as Hraunfossar and features rapid white water flowing through narrow rock channels. There is an onsite restaurant/cafe that you can have lunch at, or continue on North to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Ytri Tunga Beach is one of Iceland's best locations for seal watching, with a large colony of seals that can often be seen lounging on the rocks or swimming in the nearby waters.

Gatklettur is a natural rock arch formation along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula coastline that has been carved by centuries of wave action. This dramatic sea cliff formation creates a natural window that's quite unique! If you're hungry, grab some really good fish and chips from FRISTA Food Truck and then head into the Snæfellsjökull National Park.

The Lóndrangar are distinctive volcanic rock pillars that rise dramatically from the ocean near the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. These 75-meter tall basalt formations are remnants of ancient volcanic plugs and serve as important nesting sites for seabirds. This spot is perfect for getting a spectacular sunset and represents some of Iceland's most iconic coastal geology.

The Vatnshellir Lava Cave formed over 8,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption, this underground tunnel was created when surface lava solidified while molten lava continued to flow beneath it, eventually leaving behind a hollow pathway. There are guided tours that bring you into the cave, but remember to dress warmly, as it remains cold year-round!

Unlike Iceland's typical black volcanic beaches, Skarðsvík Beach is a golden-sand beach, surrounded by dark lava formations, creates a breathtaking landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Though the water is often too cold for swimming, the beach is perfect for a quiet stroll or even a picnic while admiring the unique surroundings.

End the night at Hellissandur Camping, a laid-back campsite on the north side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The campsite features essential facilities, including free showers, and since it's right up by the ocean, you can enjoy beautiful coastal views right from their tent or camper. This peninsula is rated one of the best spots to see the Northern Lights, so be sure to watch the sky

Day 4: Into the Wild Northern Landscapes

The first drive is about 3 hours so be sure to have breakfast before you leave the campsite or stop somewhere along the way to Kolugljufur Canyon.

This stunning natural gorge carved by the Víðidalsá river over thousands of years features dramatic rock formations, small waterfalls, and walking path that allows visitors to explore its depths safely (and unsafely if you're into that!). It was one of my favorite waterfalls that we spent a lot of time at exploring and it wasn't crowded at all which was really nice.

After marveling at the natural beauty of Kolugljúfur Canyon, head towards Akureyri, the "Capital of the North." Take a break and enjoy lunch at one of Akureyri’s many cozy cafés or restaurants (I suggest Taste for a good burger). Whether you’re craving traditional Icelandic lamb soup, fresh fish, or a hearty burger, there’s something to satisfy every appetite.

Next, check out Dettifoss or Aldeyjarfoss, two of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls. Dettifoss, located in Vatnajökull National Park, is Europe's most powerful waterfall and a breathtaking sight. If you prefer something a little less visited but equally stunning, head to Aldeyjarfoss, known for its dramatic basalt column formations surrounding the falls.

Along the way, make sure to look out for the blue signs with a picnic table/tree to indicate a sightseeing pull off. There are plenty along the way that have gorgeous views of the valley, smaller waterfalls, and cliffs that are well worth stopping for a picture.

Then call it a night at Fjalladyrd/Mödrudalur. It offers some of Iceland's most remote and pristine rustic cabin and camping experiences. Surrounded by highland landscapes and mountain views, this region provides complete immersion in Iceland's wilderness. The area is known for its clear night skies, making it an excellent spot for stargazing and potentially seeing the northern lights as well. Plus, they have a fantastic cozy restaurant/common area and a on site reindeer that you can pet!

Day 5: Canyons and Ancient Ice

On day five, the adventure takes you to the enchanting East Fjords, a region renowned for its dramatic coastline, charming fishing villages, and serene beauty.

Stuðlagil Canyon is one of Iceland's most photogenic natural wonders, featuring perfectly formed hexagonal basalt columns rising from turquoise waters. These geometric rock formations were created by slow-cooling lava flows thousands of years ago. Unfortunately when we went there was quite a bit of flooding, so we weren't able to go down all the way, but we enjoyed it regardless!

Make a quick stop at Rjúkandi Waterfall for a short hike up to see this beauty. Located near the Ring Road, this cascading waterfall is not as famous as some of the country's other waterfalls, but its charm lies in its peaceful, less crowded setting.

The next must-see destination is Diamond Beach. This black sand beach is famous for the scattered icebergs that wash ashore, creating a striking contrast between the sparkling ice and the dark volcanic sand.

Across the road from Diamond beach is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland's most breathtaking natural wonders. This stunning glacial lake is filled with icebergs that have broken off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, creating a surreal landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Keep an eye out for seals swimming among the ice or lounging on its surface, adding to the magical experience of this iconic destination. If you have extra time or would rather not do the next activity, you can take a boat tour or kayak to get up close to the icebergs.

Skaftafell is part of Vatnajökull National Park and serves as the starting point for unforgettable glacier hiking experiences. Walking on thousand-year-old ice while equipped with crampons and guided by experts offers a unique perspective on Iceland's glacial landscapes. We loved the Glacier Hike experience that we did in the afternoon, and it included exploring the glacier and dramatic ice formations while learning about glacial geology.

After the Glacier hike, make your way to Tjaldstæðið Kirkjubær to sleep. It offers a perfect mix of cozy cottages and well-maintained camping facilities. Surrounded by peaceful nature, this location is a tranquil escape to relax and recharge. The cottages are charming and fully equipped, while the camping area is spacious and perfect for setting up tents or parking campers. There is a grocery store right next door so you can grab something to cook up as well, just make sure you get in before 10pm when they close the gate.

Day 6: Coastal Drama and Natural Wonders

After a getting in breakfast at camp, make your way to the picturesque town of Vik, nestled along Iceland's dramatic southern coastline.

One of the highlights is Reynisfjara, the iconic black sand beach renowned for its striking basalt columns, volcanic sand, and roaring Atlantic waves. Be careful along the coast, as the powerful sneaker waves can catch even the most careful off guard.

Another captivating sight in Vik is the Vik i Myrdal Church, perched atop a hill overlooking the village. This charming white church with its red roof offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Visiting in spring adds an extra touch of magic, as vibrant fields of lupins bloom.

Head over to Dyrhólaey, a massive rock arch that extends into the Atlantic Ocean, creating one of Iceland's most recognizable coastal landmarks. The 120-meter high promontory offers breathtaking views of black sand beaches, crashing waves, and during summer months, puffin colonies. It's also a protected nesting area for birds, so you might be able to see puffins here during breeding season!

Next up is 2 waterfalls, Skógafoss - one of Iceland's largest and most impressive waterfalls, dropping 60 meters into a misty pool below. You can walk right up to the base of the waterfall or climb the adjacent staircase for panoramic views from the top. It's definitely a busier waterfall, so expect a crowd when you're there. Kvernufoss is a hidden gem 5 minutes from Skógafoss, offering a more intimate waterfall experience. This 30-meter waterfall is tucked away in a narrow gorge and can be reached by a short hiking trail. What makes Kvernufoss special is the ability to walk behind the falling water, creating a unique perspective and excellent photo opportunities.

Grab lunch at Eldstó Art Cafe, a cafe that combines delicious local cuisine with an artistic atmosphere, featuring works by local artists on its walls. The cafe serves hearty Icelandic dishes made from local ingredients as well as delicious cakes and coffee.

Here's where the 4x4 vehicle really comes into good use. Sigoldugljufur, also known as the "Valley of Tears," is a dramatic canyon carved by glacial flooding. The canyon features multiple waterfalls cascading down moss-covered cliffs, creating a lush green landscape that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding highlands. It's very much off the beaten path so you just park up on the side of the road and We spent quite a bit of time here as it was one of the best highlights of the trip!

If you have time, Gjáin is a hidden gem nestled in the Þjórsárdalur Valley, offering a serene and almost otherworldly landscape. This lush oasis is dotted with trickling waterfalls, clear streams, and vibrant vegetation, creating an enchanting setting straight out of a fairytale.

Grab dinner at Vínstofa Friðheima - Winebar & Bistro for dinner, where you can indulge in one of the most amazing meals we had on the trip. This charming bistro offers a warm and inviting greenhouse atmosphere, with a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients and expertly crafted dishes. We got the tomato soup (a must), duck salad, burrata ravioli, baked alaska and tiramisu and it was all phenomenal.

End the night in Flúðir, where visitors have the option to camp under the stars, enjoying the serene Icelandic countryside, or to relax and recharge in comfort at Hótel Flúðir. The hotel provides cozy accommodations and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploration. It was a well needed night of hot tubs and a comfy bed.

Day 7: Underwater Adventures and Historic Landscapes

We decided to sleep in a little later than usual and enjoy breakfast at the hotel, but if you want to pack more in you can visit Faxafoss before heading to Silfra.

Silfra offers one of the world's most unique diving and snorkeling experiences, allowing you to float between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The crystal-clear glacial water goes over 100 meters deep, creating an almost flying sensation underwater. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you can only have in Iceland.

After the snorketing, spend the rest of the day in Þingvellir National Park. It holds immense historical and geological significance as the site of Iceland's first parliament and the visible meeting point of two tectonic plates. The park features dramatic rift valleys, clear lakes, and unique geological formations created by continental drift.

Tjaldsvæði, Öxarárfoss, and Langistígur were some of our favorite highlights before we set up camp at Camping Thingvellir. This is renown as the other good Northern Lights spot, and where we actually had a clear enough day to see it!

Day 8: Have a Relaxing and Unforgettable End to Your Trip

For your final day before you head back, book a morning at the Blue Lagoon before you return the car and fly out.

The Blue Lagoon is Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, with milky blue waters heated by underground volcanic activity. The mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties, particularly beneficial for skin conditions. Surrounded by black lava fields, it’s a surreal and relaxing experience that is the perfect end to a week in Iceland.

What to Pack for an Iceland Roadtrip Itinerary

• Warm and Waterproof Clothing - Layers are essential due to Iceland's unpredictable weather. Pack waterproof jackets, pants, and insulated layers.

• Sturdy Hiking Boots - Ideal for exploring rugged terrain, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes. My absolute favorite hiking boots are the Thesus weekend boot.

• Swimwear - A must for visits to geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or natural hot springs. It's best not to pack white bathing suits because of the hot spring minerals.

• Reusable Water Bottle - Iceland’s tap water is some of the purest in the world, so you can actually fill your water bottle at the tap and even in rivers and streams.

• Camera and Accessories - To capture the stunning scenery, include spare batteries and memory cards.

• Snacks and Non-Perishable Food - For stretches of your trip where shops may not be nearby. I bought a pack of easy to cook camp meals that worked out nicely.

• Travel Adapter - Iceland uses the Europlug (Type C/F) sockets. I like this adapter since it fits into the circle part of the plug.

• First Aid Kit - Basic supplies for minor scrapes or injuries.

• Daypack - For carrying essentials on hikes or shorter excursions.

• Power Bank - To keep devices charged while on the road.

• Gloves, Hat, and Scarf - To keep warm during unpredictable cold spells.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to plan your trip, consider using my free phone-ready itinerary or purchasing the Iceland Roadtrip Itinerary Canva template on Etsy to edit it to your own trip. The phone-ready version is perfect for those who want to hit the ground running without worrying about planning logistics. Alternatively, the editable template allows you to tailor the itinerary to suit your travel preferences, ensuring a personalized experience. Both options are designed to save you time and help you make the most of your adventure in Iceland.