Iceland Tours
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Visit the Nordics 10-Day Road Trip to Iceland: An Ultimate Guide
Iceland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a nature lover, a 10-day road trip around Iceland’s Ring Road offers an unforgettable experience. This guide will help you plan your journey, ensuring you make the most of your visit to the Nordics.
Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik
Arriving in Reykjavik
Welcome to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland and your starting point for this incredible journey. After landing at Keflavik International Airport, pick up your rental car and head to your accommodation in Reykjavik.
Explore Reykjavik
Spend your first day exploring Reykjavik. Visit landmarks such as the Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager sculpture. Stroll through Laugavegur Street, the main shopping area, and sample some local cuisine at one of the city’s many restaurants.
Overnight Stay
Find a cozy hotel in Reykjavik for your first night. There are plenty of options ranging from budget hostels to luxurious hotels.
Day 2: Reykjavik to Akureyri
Drive to Akureyri passing by West Iceland
Start your journey on the Ring Road by heading north to Akureyri. The drive takes around five hours, but there are plenty of stops along the way to break up the trip.
Borgarnes
Make your first stop in Borgarnes, a charming town where you can visit the Settlement Center and learn about Iceland’s Viking history.
Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
Continue your drive to the stunning Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. These picturesque falls are a must-see, with water cascading over lava rocks.
Akureyri
Arrive in Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city. Explore the city center, visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden, and enjoy the local cafes and shops.
Overnight Stay
Stay overnight in Akureyri. There are numerous guesthouses and hotels to choose from.
Day 3: Akureyri to Lake Mývatn
Goðafoss Waterfall
Leave Akureyri in the morning and head towards Lake Mývatn. Your first stop is Goðafoss, also known as the “Waterfall of the Gods.” This magnificent waterfall is a great spot for photos.
Explore Lake Mývatn
Lake Mývatn is known for its unique geological formations and diverse birdlife. Visit the Mývatn Nature Baths, the Dimmuborgir lava fields, and the Hverir geothermal area.
Overnight Stay
Spend the night near Lake Mývatn. There are various accommodations ranging from campsites to hotels.
Day 4: Lake Mývatn to Egilsstaðir
Dettifoss Waterfall
Drive east towards Egilsstaðir, stopping at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The sight and sound of the water crashing down are truly awe-inspiring.
Ásbyrgi Canyon
Visit Ásbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped depression in the northern part of Vatnajökull National Park. It’s a beautiful spot for a hike.
Egilsstaðir
Continue to Egilsstaðir, a small town in eastern Iceland. Explore the area and visit the nearby Hallormsstaður Forest, Iceland’s largest forest.
Overnight Stay
Stay overnight in Egilsstaðir. There are several guesthouses and hotels available.
Day 5: Egilsstaðir to Höfn
Seyðisfjörður
Drive to the picturesque village of Seyðisfjörður, known for its colorful houses and vibrant arts scene. Enjoy a walk around the village and the scenic fjord.
Drive to Höfn
Continue your journey south to Höfn, a harbor town known for its lobster and beautiful scenery. The drive takes you through the stunning Eastfjords, offering many opportunities for photos.
Overnight Stay
Stay overnight in Höfn. Choose from a variety of guesthouses and hotels.
Day 6: Höfn to Jökulsárlón
Vatnajökull Glacier
Visit Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier. Explore the park’s stunning landscapes and consider booking a glacier hike or ice cave tour.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Head to Jökulsárlón, a breathtaking glacier lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Take a boat tour to get up close to the icebergs and seals.
Diamond Beach
Just across from Jökulsárlón, visit Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash up on the black sand shore, creating a stunning contrast.
Overnight Stay
Stay overnight near Jökulsárlón. There are guesthouses and hotels in the area.
Day 7: Jökulsárlón to Vik
Skaftafell Nature Reserve
Drive to Skaftafell Nature Reserve, part of Vatnajökull National Park. Hike to Svartifoss, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by basalt columns.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Stop at Fjaðrárgljúfur, a dramatic canyon with stunning views and hiking paths.
Vik
Continue to Vik, a charming village known for its black sand beach, Reynisfjara, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
Overnight Stay
Stay overnight in Vik. There are various accommodations available.
Day 8: Vik to Golden Circle
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, two of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. You can walk behind Seljalandsfoss for a unique perspective.
Eyjafjallajökull
Stop at the Eyjafjallajökull visitor center to learn about the 2010 volcanic eruption that disrupted air travel across Europe.
Golden Circle
Head to the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that includes Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
Overnight Stay
Stay overnight near the Golden Circle. There are many guesthouses and hotels in the area.
Day 9: Golden Circle to Reykjavik
Þingvellir National Park
Explore Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. It’s also the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament.
Geysir and Strokkur
Visit the Geysir geothermal area to see Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water high into the air.
Gullfoss
Marvel at Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The powerful cascade creates a dramatic spectacle.
Return to Reykjavik
Drive back to Reykjavik for your final night. Enjoy a relaxing evening in the city, perhaps with a soak in one of the local hot tubs.
Overnight Stay
Stay overnight in Reykjavik. Choose from a range of accommodations to suit your preferences.
Day 10: Departure
Last-Minute Shopping
Spend your last morning in Reykjavik doing some last-minute shopping or visiting any sites you might have missed.
Return Car and Depart
Return your rental car at Keflavik International Airport and catch your flight home, concluding your amazing 10-day road trip in Iceland.
Tips for Your Trip to Iceland
Book with Visit the Nordics
When planning your trip, consider booking with Visit the Nordics. We offer a range of tour packages and services to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Packing Essentials
- Warm, waterproof clothing
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Camera and spare batteries
- Travel guide and maps
- Snacks and water for the road
Driving in Iceland
- Always check the weather forecast and road conditions
- Stick to the speed limits and drive carefully on gravel roads
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions
Accommodation
Book your accommodation in advance, especially during the summer months when tourism is at its peak. Visit the Nordics can help you find the best places to stay.
Activities and Tours
Consider booking tours and activities in advance. Whether it’s a glacier hike, whale watching, or a Northern Lights tour, there are plenty of options to enhance your experience. Visit the Nordics offers a variety of tours to choose from.
TOURS IN ICELAND
Discover the most popular tours in Iceland
Iceland is a beautiful country with a lot of tours to offer. There are many tour options available to explore its unique landscapes and culture. Here are some tips on how to find and book in advance:
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Decide on the type of tour: There are many different types of tours in Iceland, from hiking and camping to sightseeing and cultural tours. Decide on the type of tour that best fits your interests and budget. Ask us for help if you need. That’s what we’re here for.
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Book in advance: Iceland is a popular tourist destination, and tours can fill up quickly. Book your tour in advance to ensure availability.
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Read the tour itinerary: Make sure to read the tour itinerary carefully to understand what’s included and what you’ll be doing.
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Pack appropriately: Iceland’s weather can be cold-ish and wet, even in the summer. Pack warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, and any other gear or equipment required for your tour.
Overall, booking a tour in Iceland is a great way to experience the country’s unique landscapes and culture. By deciding on the type of tour and booking in advance, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience in Iceland.
What tours can you do in Iceland?
There are many popular tours in Iceland that attract visitors from all over the world. Overall, there are many incredible tours to choose from in Iceland, and visitors are sure to find something that suits their interests and budget. Here are some of the most popular tours:
Which are the most popular tours in Iceland?
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Golden Circle Tour: This is one of the most popular tours in Iceland, as it takes visitors to three of the country’s most famous natural landmarks: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall.
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Blue Lagoon Tour: The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions, and many visitors choose to take a tour that includes transportation to and from the lagoon, as well as admission.
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Northern Lights Tour: Many visitors come to Iceland in the winter months in the hope of seeing the Northern Lights, and there are several tour operators that offer Northern Lights tours.
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South Coast Tour: The South Coast of Iceland is home to several stunning natural attractions, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Vatnajökull glacier.
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Glacier Hiking Tour: Iceland is home to several glaciers, and many visitors choose to take a guided glacier hiking tour to explore these incredible natural wonders.
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Whale Watching Tour: Iceland is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, and there are several tour operators that offer whale watching tours from Reykjavik, Husavik, and other locations around the country.
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Snorkeling or Diving Tour: Many visitors choose to snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park, where they can explore the underwater world between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
