Iceland is waiting to receive you back. The most popular way to discover Iceland is to drive the famous ring road. Every turn brings you to lava fields and waterfalls. We’re going on a road trip to Iceland like no other. Here are our top Iceland ring road routes to ensure you have a great time.
Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
About Iceland’s Ring Road
The Ring Road, Iceland’s national road route 1, is the Ring Road. The Ring Road circles the country, covering 1,322 km (821 mi). Iceland Road Trips last 7-10 days and allows you to see many of the most famous ring Road attractions in just a few days. We recommend spending the entire ten days visiting Iceland. This incredible Iceland Road Trip Itinerary took us ten days to drive in an anti-clockwise direction. Are you ready to go?
Most of Iceland’s ring road has two lanes of traffic and is paved. However, it could be more rugged. Some single-lane bridges are available, as well as narrow passes. Weather can also change rapidly. Sometimes visibility was abysmal. I recall a snowstorm that erupted during a four-wheel drive tour. Our driver kept driving with his GPS. We asked him to slow down. However, Iceland’s roads are maintained during snowfall, so you can still explore the country in winter.
How to Plan an Iceland Road Trip
Iceland Tour arranged our trip to Iceland. They created a fantastic itinerary of Iceland roads for us. It was great to have a plan and a pre-booked hotel. It is a popular destination, and the hotels along the Ring Road route to Iceland can sell out quickly. Having a plan for your tour company made a lot more sense.
I am independently driving Iceland’s Ring Road.
You can also rent a car to drive the ring roads independently. CarRental.com offers a price comparison of car rentals. We recommend a 4X4 equipped with a GPS. The Ring Road was conducted in September, and we drove through several snowstorms. One car veered off the road in front of us. We were able to make it easier with our winter driving experience, as well as the snow tires on our SUV.
Ring Road Tours
Some tours take you around Iceland’s ring roads if you feel uncomfortable driving. Relax and let professionals take you to top attractions on the ring road.
Take a small group tour of Iceland for eight days. You can see many of the highlights in this ring road travel guide by leaving Reykjavik. There is plenty to see, from waterfalls to lava fields in the south to the East Fjords or northern lights of the North. It covers everything. It covers everything. You may cancel up to 24 hours before the event to receive a full reimbursement/refund.
The Circle Tour of the Ring Road offers flexibility. You can choose between 4, 5, 6, or 7 days. You will visit the South Coast, East Fjords, and Lake Myvatn. There are optional tours of Borgarfjordur, Lava Caving, and the Golden Circle. You can also find more information. More details are here. You can cancel up to 24 hours before your reservation to receive full reimbursement.
Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
In 10 days, we drove the ring road counterclockwise. This allowed us to take in the most important sights and also to have a chance to get off the beaten track without feeling rushed. We saw amazing landscapes and took part in some incredible tours. We recommend spending ten days in Iceland if you have the time. You don’t have to drive clockwise, so you can make the Iceland road trip in reverse.
Airport To Reykjavik
You are now in Iceland. You are now ready to explore Reykjavik – the Northernmost Capital of the World. This city is located in the southwest corner of Iceland and should be noticed when planning your Iceland itinerary. You are now officially on your Iceland road trip! Reykjavik, located approximately 45 minutes from the airport, has the Blue Lagoon in the middle.
Blue Lagoon
You can soothe your sore muscles by visiting the hot springs early in the morning. Most people see the Blue Lagoon on their way out of Iceland or the day after arriving. Although it is the most touristy thing in Iceland, you should visit the Blue Lagoon at the very least once in your life.
There are many things to do and see once you arrive in Reykjavik. Reykjavik has a rich Viking history and stunning Nordic surroundings. It is a modern city that allows you to relax and plan your day.
You can enjoy the Blue Lagoon if you want to experience it truly. These luxury hotels are:
- The Blue Lagoon Retreat, a luxurious five-star escape overlooking the lagoon, is high enough to view the lava fields of Reykjanes Peninsula.
- Silica Hotel. This award-winning hotel is an excellent option for those who wish to stay at the Blue Lagoon. It is located just 10 minutes from the Blue Lagoon.
Reykjavik: Things you should not miss
- The Hallgrimskirkj (The Church of Hallgrimur), Iceland’s most prominent national church, is worth a visit.
- Reykjavik Art Museum
- Sun Voyager
- For nightlife, head to the City Center
- Nordic House
- National Museum of Iceland
Reykjavik is the best place to go whale-watching. Book this tour aboard a luxury yacht starting from downtown Reykjavik.
Pingvellir National Park and Geothermal Wonders
We are ready to get on the road but have yet to reach the Ring Road. We will be making a detour today to explore waterfalls and geysers in Iceland’s Golden Circle.
You can head inland to Thingvellir, also known as Thingvellir National Park, which is one of Iceland’s natural Geological Wonders. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, once the ancient Icelandic parliament, is filled with countless activities. You can go scuba diving in the Silfra Fissure . To experience this natural phenomenon, you can be certified. Book a snorkeling tour and witness the tectonic plates from 2 continents drift apart.
Geysir Geothermal Area
The Geysir Geothermal Area is a must-see. The famous hot spring of the Haukadalur valley has a Geyser similar to Old Faithful. Although it could be more predictable and faithful, we didn’t see it erupt in flight. However, the hot springs around it are worth visiting. The Golden Circle is a trendy day trip, book this tour starting in Reykjavik and includes stops at Geysir, Gullfoss waterfalls, and Thingvellir National Park.
Gullfoss Waterfall
After admiring the Geysir Hot Springs from afar, you can head to the Gullfoss waterfall. The waterfall, 32 meters high (105 feet) and falls from the Hvita river, is a massive cascade. This is the perfect place to start your Iceland Waterfalls journey. Gullfoss waterfall is Iceland’s most popular. It is possible to walk very close to the water’s rush and feel its power.
After taking in the stunning scenery of Gullfoss, you can stop by Fludir to grab some snacks or eat. Fludir is an ideal place to camp in Iceland. There is also a luxurious hotel there. The Hotel Fludir is worth the extra expense. Fludir is a great place to spend the night. Save time and Book your Secret Lagoon Admission Tickets In Advance.
Iceland Hot Dogs
Iceland Hot Dog – You’ll always hear about hot dogs when you talk about Iceland. They are the most popular and affordable food along the ring road loop. Pylsuvagninn Selfossi, a hot dog stand located at the Olfusa River bridge, is very popular. You can find hot dogs in Iceland here. While driving through Iceland, we ate many hot dogs from gas stations. It is the most economical way to travel.
Waterfalls, Sea Stacks, and Black Sand
Your Iceland Road Trip Day 3 takes you to some of the most impressive attractions in Iceland. You’ll recognize these locations in Game of Thrones – and we recommend you spend more than ten days there! Today, it’s all about black beaches, lava fields, and puffins!
Stop for coffee in Hella as you travel south on Route 1. The colorful houses line the riverbank, making this a great place to pick up supplies or fill up your car. As you drive south towards Vik, keep your caffeine handy.
Seljalandsfoss
This waterfall is well-known as the spot where you can take classic Icelandic photos. Skogafoss is just a few hundred meters further along route 1. Skogafoss, 25 meters wide (82 feet) and drops 60 meters (200ft), is the largest waterfall in Iceland. Its strong spray can often create a rainbow.
