Experience the endless days of the Icelandic summer on a 10-day self-drive adventure. From the iconic Golden Circle to remote East Fjords, this itinerary covers majestic waterfalls, black-sand beaches, volcanic highlands, and quaint fishing villages under the midnight sun. Pack your sense of wonder and let the Ring Road guide you through landscapes unlike anywhere else on earth.
Day 1: Golden Circle Highlights
Begin your journey from Reykjavík, heading east towards the Golden Circle. First, explore Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site straddling the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Wander along fissures and ancient assembly grounds before continuing to the Geysir geothermal area. Marvel at Strokkur’s boiling spouts shooting water high into the air. End the day at Gullfoss waterfall, where powerful torrents plunge into a narrow canyon. Spend the night in the small town of Selfoss or in nearby hotel accommodations.
Day 2: South Coast Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches
Drive along Route 1 to Iceland’s dramatic South Coast. Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a 60-meter waterfall you can walk behind. A short drive brings you to Skógafoss, where misty rainbows often appear in sunlight. Continue towards the town of Vík, exploring Reynisfjara’s black sand beach and the basalt sea stacks Reynisdrangar. Keep an eye out for puffins nesting on the cliff edges during summer. Overnight in Vík or the nearby countryside for a chance to see the midnight sun over the ocean horizon.
Day 3: Skaftafell & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Press on eastward to Vatnajökull National Park and the Skaftafell area. Hike to the Svartifoss waterfall, framed by hexagonal basalt columns, or opt for a guided glacier walk on the Vatnajökull ice cap. In the afternoon, arrive at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Watch icebergs drift from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier into the sea, then stroll along Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice gleam on black sands. Spend the night near Höfn, known for its succulent langoustine dishes.
Day 4: Höfn to Djúpivogur in the East Fjords
Depart Höfn and enter the scenic East Fjords region. Stop at the Vestrahorn mountain peninsula for dramatic coastal vistas and photo opportunities. Continue along narrow fjords, passing fishing villages like Breiðdalsvík. Arrive in Djúpivogur, a tranquil hamlet famous for the Eggin í Gleðivík sculpture installation along the harbor. Enjoy local seafood at a family-run restaurant and rest in a cozy guesthouse overlooking the water.
Day 5: Exploring the East Fjords
Spend a full day driving the winding roads of the East Fjords. Visit Stöðvarfjörður and its Petra Stone Collection, a private museum showcasing colorful minerals. Continue to Fáskrúðsfjörður, known for its French heritage museum. Keep an eye out for reindeer roaming the hillsides. In the evening, arrive in Egilsstaðir, the region’s cultural hub, and consider a side trip to Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque town tucked between steep mountains.
Day 6: North to Lake Mývatn
Head north toward Lake Mývatn, a volcanic wonderland. Stop at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, then explore the lunar landscapes of the Námaskarð geothermal area with its steaming vents and acid pools. At Mývatn, visit the pseudo-craters at Skútustaðagígar and relax in the Myvatn Nature Baths, Iceland’s quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon. Overnight in the Mývatn region, where endless daylight invites late-night walks by the lake.
Day 7: Akureyri & Goðafoss
Drive west to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, often called the Capital of the North. Before reaching town, stop at Goðafoss waterfall, the ‘Waterfall of the Gods,’ where water cascades over a horseshoe-shaped cliff. In Akureyri, stroll through vibrant botanical gardens, explore local cafés, and sample Arctic char or lamb dishes. Overnight in Akureyri, or take an evening whale-watching tour from the harbor.
Day 8: West Coast & Hvitserkur
Continue your ring drive along the Westfjords approach to Hvitserkur, a basalt rock formation resembling a dragon drinking from the sea. The dramatic coastal setting is perfect for photography. Explore seal colonies nearby at Vatnsnes Peninsula. Then head south into the Skagafjörður Valley, known for its horse-breeding farms. Consider staying on an equestrian farm to experience traditional Icelandic horse riding against stunning fjord views.
Day 9: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Spend a day exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called ‘Iceland in Miniature.’ Visit Kirkjufell mountain and its adjacent waterfall, then see the coastal black church at Búðir. Explore lava fields, sea cliffs at Arnarstapi, and the beach at Djúpalónssandur. On a clear day, gaze upon Snæfellsjökull glacier looming in the distance—the setting of Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. Overnight in one of the small villages dotting the peninsula.
Day 10: Return to Reykjavík via West Iceland Wonders
On your final day, journey back to Reykjavík through West Iceland. Stop at Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, where water streams from beneath lava fields into the Hvítá River. Visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, before unwinding with a soak at the Krauma geothermal baths. Arrive in Reykjavík in the evening for a farewell dinner—perhaps fresh seafood paired with local craft beer or geothermal-heated greenhouse produce.
Travel Tips
- Car Rental: Book a reliable 4×4 vehicle for gravel roads and occasional highland detours.
- Accommodation: Reserve guesthouses and farm stays well in advance, as summer is peak season.
- Fuel: Fill up frequently—gas stations can be sparse in remote regions.
- Weather: Pack layers and waterproof gear; summer can still bring rain and strong winds.
- Safety: Respect signage and barriers at natural sites; many landscapes can be unstable.
- Midnight Sun: Take advantage of late-night daylight for extra sightseeing, but bring an eye mask for sleeping.
Conclusion
A 10-day summer road trip around Iceland offers an unforgettable blend of power and serenity. From geysers and glaciers to tranquil fjords and volcanic highlands, every day brings new wonders. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking on ancient lava fields, or wandering through fishing villages, the Land of Fire and Ice will leave you breathless—and eager to return.
Take a look at our step-by-step Guide to Planning Your First International Trip.
Leave a Reply