Highlights
- Explore the landmarks of Reykjavik amongst its colorful houses
- Drive along the Golden Circle, stopping at the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara
- Discover Iceland's crown jewel, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Relax in the milky blue waters of the famous Blue Lagoon
- Enjoy visiting Iceland's waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Gullfoss
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Reykjavik - Explore the city | Reykjavik |
| Day 2 | Discover the waterfalls and geysers of the Golden Circle | Hvolsvollur |
| Day 3 | Explore Iceland's southern coast with stops in Skógafoss and Vík | Kirkjubæjarklaustur |
| Day 4 | Visit the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon | Kirkjubæjarklaustur |
| Day 5 | Relax in the thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon | Reykjavik |
| Day 6 | Depart Iceland |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik - Explore the city
Welcome to your winter adventure in Iceland!
Upon arriving at Keflavik International Airport, a private driver will transfer you to your accommodation in the heart of Reykjavik. Take some time to settle into your room, then head out to explore the landmarks of Iceland's capital, like Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Music Hall, and the Sun Voyager Sculpture by the sea.
You can't miss Tjörnin, a small pond in central Reykjavik that, in the winter months, is occupied with swans and other sea birds. Nearby you'll find the Reykjavik City Hall which houses a large 3D map of Iceland. If you have time, you can also visit some of the museums and galleries in the city.
In the evening, dine at one of many gourmet restaurants in Reykjavík, and simply enjoy a beautiful winter night amongst the colorful old houses in the city center.
Day 2: Discover the waterfalls and geysers of the Golden Circle
After breakfast at your accommodation, you'll collect your rental car and begin your road trip around Iceland's famous Golden Circle. Start by driving to Þingvellir National Park, one of the most important historical sites in Iceland where you'll find unique geology and natural beauty. Here you'll visit Alþing (Althing), which is where Iceland's parliament once stood for over 800 years. You can also visit the ruins of Þingvellir Church, as well as the Almannagjá fault line.
Next, you'll stop to admire the famous Gullfoss Waterfall and visit the geothermal area of Geysir, where you'll find bubbling mud pits, geysers, and hot springs. In the afternoon, you can relax in either Fontana Spa in Laugarvatn or the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, both offering the chance of seeing the northern lights in the late evening.
Tonight's accommodation you will be in the area of Selfoss. Along the way, and into the evening, you may be able to see some northern lights might light up the sky.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Explore Iceland's southern coast with stops in Skógafoss and Vík
Today you'll explore the southern coast of Iceland, a popular area for beaches and waterfalls.
You'll start your day by driving to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where you can enjoy the unique experience of walking behind the powerful cascade. Next up is another beautiful waterfall, Skógafoss. In this area, you can add an optional snowmobile tour on a glacier or a horseback riding tour.
In the afternoon, you'll continue to the town of Vík, where you can admire the iconic Vik i Myrdal Church and the Voyages Friendship Statue. Nearby is the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, which can be reached either by car or by a hiking path along the cliffs. Enjoy the views of Dyrhólaey, a set of sea stacks that stretch out into the surf.
In the evening, you'll arrive at your accommodation in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, possibly catching the northern lights along the way.
Day 4: Visit the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
After breakfast, you'll continue along Iceland's southern coast to Skaftafell, a wilderness area within Vatnajökull National Park. Skaftafell is known for its huge glaciers, including Skaftafellsjökull and Svínafellsjökull. Here you’ll find several hiking routes, but you can start with a light hike to Svartifoss waterfall, which features pitch-black hexagonal basalt columns and a rugged canyon.
Afterward, you'll make your way to the village of Höfn, which is the lobster capital of Iceland. On the road between Skaftafell and Höfn you will find Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the highlight of today's adventure. The lagoon is filled with icy blue floating glaciers and is considered by many as the crown jewel of Icelandic nature.
In the evening, you'll return to your accommodation in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Day 5: Relax in the thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon
Today you'll make your way back to Reykjavik. Along the way, stop in Seltún (Krýsuvík) to explore the boiling mud pools and colorful mountains.
Continue along the coastline to the village of Grindavík, where you can stop to visit the Icelandic Saltfish Museum. Here you'll enjoy exhibits explaining the saltfish industry, which was (and still is) a core component of Icelandic culture and heritage, particularly in the late-19th century.
In the afternoon, you'll visit the country's most popular tourist site, the Blue Lagoon. Soaking in the thermal waters is an excellent way to relax and unwind after a few days on the road.
In the evening, you'll continue to Reykjavik and return your rental car. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy your final dinner in Iceland.
Day 6: Depart Iceland
Enjoy one last morning in Iceland. If your flight is in the afternoon, you can stop at Blue Lagoon for a final soak in the milky blue waters. When you're ready, you'll transfer to Keflavik International Airport in time to catch your flight.
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