Around Iceland: The Classic Route

Upon arrival at Keflavík Airport, your self-drive car will be waiting for you at the airport. If you arrive early in the day, you have the option to upgrade and visit the Blue Lagoon (this is optional and not included).

After checking into your accommodation, explore Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s main street, where you can enjoy its diverse shops and cozy cafes.

Overnight stay in Reykjavík.

Embark on the iconic “Golden Circle” route.

Start at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can walk along the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Continue to the Haukadalur geothermal area, home to Geysir (the original “geyser”) and the more active Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes.

Conclude your tour with visits to the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall and the volcanic crater of Kerið.

Overnight stay in the Selfoss area.

Driving distance: approximately 185 km / 114 mi.

Start your day at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where you can walk behind the misty cascade.

Next, visit the impressive Skógafoss Waterfall, just a short drive away. South of Vík, stop at the volcanic black sand beach* for striking views of Dyrhólaey island and the Reynisdrangar rock formations rising from the waves.

Optionally, you can also enjoy a glacier hike, ice cave visit, or snowmobile tour today. For more details on these activities, check our optional excursions.

Overnight stay in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

*Important Reminder: Exercise caution at Reynisfjara beach near Vík due to powerful rogue waves and strong undertows. Always keep a safe distance from the water’s edge and heed warning signs before walking on the beach.

Driving distance: approximately 203 km / 126 mi.

Explore Skaftafell*, a stunning area within Vatnajökull National Park known for its natural beauty.

Next, visit the smaller Fjallsárlón Ice Lagoon before continuing to the renowned Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you’ll marvel at icebergs drifting in the water.

Afterward, stop at Diamond Beach to see ice chunks sparkling on the black sand. Since Höfn is renowned as the “Lobster Capital of Iceland,” we recommend concluding your day with a delightful lobster dinner in town!

Overnight stay in the Höfn area.

*Important Reminder: For glacier exploration or ice climbing, always use the services of a licensed and experienced guide.

Today’s drive through East Iceland will take you along picturesque fjords flanked by steep mountains and rugged tundra. Each fjord features its own charm, with quaint fishing villages set against stunning backdrops and welcoming locals.

You might even spot a reindeer or two, as this is their habitat. The East is also ideal for northern lights viewing, given the expansive, unpolluted skies near your accommodation*.

Overnight stay in the Egilsstaðir area.

*Important Reminder: Please note that northern lights sightings are not guaranteed as they are a natural phenomenon.

Driving distance: approximately 256 km / 159 mi.

For a day of natural wonders, consider an optional detour (weather and road conditions permitting) to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, before proceeding to the otherworldly Lake Mývatn area. This region of North Iceland is rich with unique natural attractions, including the Krafla Volcano, the colorful mud pools and terrain of the Námaskarð Pass, and the vast crater of Hverfell.

Notable sights also include Dimmuborgir, a striking lava landscape featuring caves, columns, and arches. Additionally, you can unwind at the Mývatn Nature Baths.

Overnight stay in the Lake Mývatn area.

Driving distance: approximately 182 km / 113 mi.

Start your day by exploring more of Lake Mývatn, then visit the picturesque Goðafoss Waterfall en route to the charming town of Akureyri.

In Akureyri, enjoy a leisurely walk through the town center, where you’ll find a variety of shops, cafes, and museums. Continue towards Skagafjörður, a region famous for its charming Icelandic horses.

If time and weather permit, consider taking a detour around the Tröllaskagi Peninsula, known for its stunning mountains, cliffs, and fjords.

Overnight stay in the Skagafjörður area.

Driving distance (including Tröllaskagi): approximately 247 km / 153 mi.

Drive to the historic Borgarfjörður region in west Iceland today. Notable natural attractions include the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls, which cascade over a lava field, and Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring.

Optional activities for the day include exploring the manmade ice tunnel, Into the Glacier, or visiting Krauma, the new baths next to Deildartunguhver. For those interested in Icelandic history, the Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borgarnes is highly recommended.

Overnight stay in the Borgarnes area.

Driving distance: approximately 234 km / 145 mi.

Today, you can choose to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, weather and road conditions permitting. Marvel at the beauty of Snæfellsjökull National Park, with highlights including Dritvík Cove, the dramatic bird cliffs at Lóndrangar, and the scenic villages of Hellnar and Arnarstapi.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more active day, select from a range of optional activities tailored to your interests. Options include exploring a lava cave or manmade ice tunnel, snowmobiling, or visiting Krauma baths in the west. You may also end your day with a relaxing soak at the Blue Lagoon (pre-booking required).

Overnight stay in Reykjavík.

*Important Reminder: Please note that if you choose optional activities other than the Blue Lagoon, you will not have time to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Driving distance (including Snæfellsnes Peninsula): approximately 300 km / 186 mi

As your Iceland adventure comes to a close, consider visiting the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to unwind in the warm mineral waters before heading to the airport (optional and not included).

Your self-drive car will be returned at the airport.