Have you ever dreamed of immersing yourself in the untouched landscapes of a Nordic wonderland? Embark on a road trip around Iceland and experience a thrilling journey through a land that combines fire and ice in the most mesmerizing way.
From cascading waterfalls to rugged volcanic landscapes, geothermal pools, and charming coastal villages, this extraordinary 9-day Iceland itinerary will leave you in awe! It’s part of the first itinerary I ever took to Iceland, so I know you’ll love it!
Get ready to explore the best of Iceland with this carefully curated road trip itinerary.
So, buckle up as you unravel the secrets of Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage — read my planning a camper van trip to Iceland guide next!
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Iceland 9-Day Itinerary: At a Glance
- Day 1: Reykjavík – Arrival + Exploring City’s Landmarks
- Day 2: Thingvellir National Park + Gullfoss Falls
- Day 3: Vík – Exploring a Stunning Black Beach + Dramatic Cliffs
- Day 4: Vatnajökull National Park + Jökulsárlón
- Day 5: Höfn – Enjoying Delicious Seafood + Lobster
- Day 6: Mývatn – Soaking in a Naturally Heated, Man-Made Lagoon
- Day 7: Húsavík – Whale-Watching
- Day 8: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Day 9: Blue Lagoon – Soaking in a Geothermal Pool
9 Day Iceland Itinerary
Day 1: Reykjavík
Drive Time: 47 minutes from Keflavík International Airport to Reykjavík
Famous for its bustling nightlife, colorful houses, and innovative architecture, Reykjavík is both the capital and largest city in Iceland. From its bustling streets filled with trendy cafés, shops, and restaurants to its welcoming locals, Reykjavík offers a warm and inviting atmosphere to all who visit. This makes it an ideal starting point for your 9-day trip around Iceland.
For history buffs, the glass-domed Perlan Museum offers scenic views of the city and houses the largest nature exhibition. If you’re more intrigued by the city’s fascinating architecture, the Hallgrimskirkja is a modern Lutheran cathedral with a 244-foot-tall tower that dominates the city’s skyline.
Other things you can do in Reykjavík include taking a food walk, admiring the street art Downtown, catching a show at the Harpa Concert Hall, and going on a horseback riding tour.
Reykjavík Travel Tips
- Get yourself a Reykjavík City Card which gives you access to several museums, galleries, and all swimming pools in the city. You also get free unlimited bus travel within the Reykjavik Capital Area.
- Iceland is quite expensive; food, in particular, is pricey. So save some money by minimizing eating out and cooking at your accommodation.
- Maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights by venturing out of the city center.
Where To Stay in Reykjavík
- Reykjavík Residence Apartment Hotel – offers clean, modern, and self-catering apartments with access to shops, restaurants, and lively nightlife.
- Room With a View Hotel – get a comfy room in the heart of Reykjavík less than half a mile from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church.
- Kex Hostel – perfect for travelers on a budget. It’s 820 feet from the vibrant Laugavegur Street, a great place to meet locals.
Day 2: Thingvellir National Park + Gullfoss Falls
Drive Time: 50 minutes to Thingvellir National Park, plus 1 hour to Gullfoss Falls
Thingvellir National Park is where history, geology, and natural beauty converge. The park is one of Iceland’s most significant natural landmarks and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can witness dramatic cliffs and hike through lava fields, moss-covered landscapes, and picturesque waterfalls before admiring the crystal-clear waters of Lake Thingvallavatn.
From one breathtaking site to another, head over to Gullfoss Falls to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring beauty. The falls are on the Hvítá River, which cascades down in two stages, creating a stunning spectacle.
As you approach, you’ll hear the thunderous roar of the rushing water and see the mist rising high into the air, adding an ethereal touch to the scene.
Thingvellir National Park + Gullfoss Falls Travel Tips
- Take a full-day trip from Reykjavík to the Golden Circle. This eliminates the need for driving or booking overnight accommodation.
- Visit the Thingvellir National Park Visitor Center to get all the park information. You’ll also find toilets, a cafeteria, and a souvenir shop on site.
- The best time to visit Gullfoss Falls for epic scenery is early morning or late afternoon.
Where To Stay Near Thingvellir National Park + Gullfoss Falls
- Héraðsskólinn Historic Guesthouse – located along the Golden Circle sightseeing trails, the guesthouse offers modest rooms, a bistro, café, and bar, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Day 3: Vík
Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes to Vík from Gullfoss Falls
Despite its small size, Vík captivates many visitors with its picturesque landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and rich cultural heritage. Vík’s most iconic landmark is Reynisfjara, a black-sand beach renowned for its unique beauty and striking rock formations.
As you stroll along the shoreline, you’ll be captivated by the contrast between the dark volcanic sand, crashing waves, and towering basalt columns that rise majestically from the sea.
Keep an eye out for the famous Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks, shrouded in mythical tales and adding an enchanting element to the already stunning scenery.
Other attractions in and around Vík include a Katla Ice Cave jeep tour, a glacier hike at Sólheimajökull, and ziplining through the city.
Vík Travel Tips
- Vík is a small, remote village and, therefore, has limited supplies. If you have any dietary requirements, it’s best to go shopping for food in Reykjavík before departure.
- Two of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, are between Reykjavík and Vík; these are must-sees, so set time aside to visit.
Where To Stay in Vík
- Hótel Kría – its panoramic glass walls offer stunning views of the lush mountainscape, and in the right conditions, you can see the Northern Lights.
- Guesthouse Carina – clean, modest rooms and a restaurant with glass walls for great views.
Day 4: Vatnajökull National Park + Jökulsárlón
Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to Skaftafell, plus 40 minutes to Jökulsárlón
Covering 14% of the country’s total land area, Vatnajökull National Park is not only Iceland’s largest national park but also Europe’s biggest glacier. At the heart of the park lies the mighty Vatnajökull glacier. This breathtaking expanse of ice and snow stretches across vast plains and rugged mountain peaks.
Take a guided glacier hike from Skaftafell to explore this natural wonder. Next up is Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon that stands as a mesmerizing testament to the forces of nature.
As you approach Jökulsárlón, you’ll be greeted by a surreal landscape filled with floating icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Take a trip to the Jökulsárlón and catch the breathtaking sight of these shimmering ice sculptures against majestic mountains.
Vatnajökull National Park + Jökulsárlón Travel Tips
- The best way to visit Vatnajökull National Park and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is by renting a 4×4 car or a campervan. You can also take a bus from Reykjavík, but these operate on a strict timetable.
- Skaftafell is home to the fascinating Svartifoss waterfall, which tumbles over dramatic black basalt columns – a worthy stop to add to your road trip in Iceland.
Where To Stay in Skaftafell
- Hotel Skaftafell – offers cozy rooms with views of the highest mountain, Hvannadalshnjukur, and the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull.
- Guesthouse Kálfafellsstadur – decorated rooms with beautiful garden views. It is also just a 17-minute drive from the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
Day 5: Höfn
Drive Time: 60 minutes from Jökulsárlón
Known as the “Lobster Capital of Iceland,” Höfn is a culinary delight and a place of breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality. The town’s picturesque setting, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, creates a tranquil aura.
If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll appreciate that the fishing town offers some of Iceland’s freshest and most delectable langoustines.
You can also take advantage of the birdwatching opportunities in the area. Höfn is a nesting ground for various seabirds, including puffins, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
Höfn Travel Tips
- Consider visiting Höfn during the summer (June to August) when the weather is generally milder and more favorable for outdoor activities. However, the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly.
- Plan for varied activities. Höfn offers a wide range of activities for travelers, from indulging in a delectable lobster to taking glacier walks and visiting museums.
Where To Stay in Höfn
- Hotel Höfn – offers modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an onsite restaurant serving lobster and other local specialties.
- Fosshótel Vatnajökull – enjoy heated rooms and access to excursions like glacier walks and boat tours. There’s also an in-house restaurant with panoramic mountain views.
Day 6: Drive To Mývatn + Local Attractions
Drive Time: 4 hours from Höfn
Nicknamed the “Lake of Midges,” Mývatn is a serene oasis surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and captivating attractions. The centerpiece of the area is Lake Mývatn itself, a serene body of water dotted with small islands and surrounded by volcanic formations.
The lake’s unique ecosystem supports diverse birdlife, including ducks, swans, and various migratory species. But the most intriguing aspect of Mývatn is the presence of geothermal activity.
Explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Námaskarð geothermal area, where bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles create a surreal atmosphere.
And if you’re seeking relaxation, visiting the Mývatn Nature Baths is a must.
Mývatn Travel Tips
- Mývatn is referred to as the “Lake of Midges” due to the presence of these small, flying insects during the summer months. Although harmless, they can pose quite a nuisance. Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves, pants, and a hat to minimize exposed skin. Insect repellent also works.
- Respect and preserve the environment by staying on designated paths and trails to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.
Where To Stay in Mývatn
- Sel – Hótel Mývatn – offers an onsite shop selling souvenirs and light snacks. It is also a short two-minute walk away from Skútustaðagígar.
- Hótel Laxá – contemporary-styled rooms, only 20 minutes away from the Mývatn Nature Baths and 30 minutes from Krafla Crater.
Day 7: Húsavík
Drive Time: 45 minutes from Mývatn
Húsavík offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. The main draw of Húsavík is its exceptional whale-watching opportunities. You can embark on a thrilling traditional whale-watching boat tour, where you’ll spot various whale species, including humpback whales, minke whales, and even the elusive blue whale.
Beyond whale-watching, Húsavík has much more to offer. Stroll through the picturesque town center and discover its charming wooden houses, quaint cafés, and cozy restaurants serving fresh local seafood.
Visit the Húsavík Whale Museum to get insight into the world of whales through its exhibits and informative displays.
Húsavík Travel Tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during the peak summer season. This ensures you secure a spot on a reputable whale-watching excursion, increasing your chances of encountering these majestic creatures.
- If you have time to spare, consider venturing into the nearby Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, one of Iceland’s best national parks.
Where To Stay in Húsavík
- Fosshotel Husavik – offers a great location in the heart of town, eclectic marine-themed décor, and an onsite restaurant to indulge in delectable meals.
Day 8: Drive To Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Drive Time: 5 hours 15 minutes from Húsavík
This captivating region offers a condensed display of Iceland’s diverse natural wonders, stunning landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and mystical charm. The focal point of the peninsula is the magnificent Snæfellsjökull volcano.
This stratovolcano crowned with a glacier inspired Jules Verne’s famous novel, “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” Take a tour of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and immerse yourself in one of Iceland’s hidden gems.
You can also explore the picturesque fishing villages scattered along the coastline, such as Stykkishólmur and Grundarfjörður, famous for their colorful houses and charming harbors.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula Travel Tips
- One of the best ways to appreciate the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is by driving around the coastal ring road, Route 54.
- Don’t hesitate to venture off the main tourist trail to discover lesser-known gems. Seek out hidden waterfalls, secluded beaches, and quiet hiking trails.
Where To Stay
- Kirkjufell Hotel – offers all hotel mod-cons, including access to Mountain Kirkjufell, which is only 0.6 miles away.
- Vatnsás 10 – humble holiday home ideal for spending a few days in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Day 9: Return to Reykjavík + Blue Lagoon
Drive Time: 1 hour 50 minutes from Snæfellsnes
The Blue Lagoon is a world-renowned geothermal spa and one of Iceland’s most iconic attractions. Located just a short drive from Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon is a unique oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the volcanic landscapes.
This geothermal wonder is famous for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters, naturally heated by underground volcanic activity.
The warm waters are known for their therapeutic properties, rich in silica, minerals, and algae. You can soak in the Blue Lagoon and indulge in its famous silica mud mask, believed to benefit the skin.
9 Days in Iceland | Final Thoughts
A 9-day Iceland itinerary provides a perfect opportunity to explore the diverse wonders of this breathtaking country.
From the vibrant city of Reykjavík to the dramatic landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the mighty waterfalls of Gullfoss, and the geothermal Blue Lagoon, you’ll find plenty to do in Iceland.
