The ultimate Iceland road trip: fire, ice & fjords

Reykjavik - Thingvellir National Park - Gullfoss

Tag 1: Welcome to Iceland

Upon arrival in Reykjavik, pick up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport and begin your Icelandic adventure.

Drive to Þingvellir National Park to explore the dramatic rift valley and historic Althing site. Continue to the Geysir Geothermal Area to see Strokkur erupt skyward.

Next, marvel at the thundering Gullfoss waterfall. If time and energy allow, detour to the colorful Kerid Crater and relax in Hveragerði’s geothermal charm.

Optional activities along the Golden Circle include snowmobiling on a glacier or snorkeling in the Silfra fissure.

End your day with an overnight stay near Selfoss.

Selfoss - Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Tag 2: South coast wonders: a day of waterfalls and Black Sand

Start your day at the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading veil. Then head to Skógafoss, a mighty waterfall with a staircase to sweeping views.

Continue to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach to see dramatic basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves. You may also want to consider a stop at Dyrhólaey for cliffside vistas over the coast.

If time allows, explore the winding paths of Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a hidden gem of green cliffs and flowing water, before ending your journey with an overnight stay in the tranquil village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

Kirkjubæjarklaustur - Skaftafell National Park - Höfn

Tag 3: Glaciers and ice: a journey to the edge of Vatnajökull

Today, drive through the breathtaking landscapes of Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park.

Enjoy a hike to Svartifoss, framed by striking basalt columns, and continue to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon—opt for an ice cave or glacier hike in winter, or a boat tour among icebergs in summer.

Don’t miss nearby Diamond Beach, where glistening ice shards rest on black sand.

End the day in the coastal town of Höfn, famed for its lobster and harbor views.

Höfn - Egilsstaðir

Tag 4: Eastfjords escape: lakes, forests & waterfalls

Enjoy a scenic drive through the winding Eastfjords, stopping at peaceful coastal villages and dramatic viewpoints.

Arrive in Egilsstaðir, nestled along Lake Lagarfljót, said to be home to a mythical serpent. Circle the lake and wander through Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest.

For adventure, hike to Hengifoss, framed by colorful, layered cliffs. Prefer to unwind? Visit Vök Baths for a relaxing soak in geothermal waters.

Overnight stay in Egilsstaðir.

Egilsstaðir - Mývatn

Tag 5: Geothermal wonders & lava landscapes

Begin your day at Studlagil Canyon where towering basalt columns line a vibrant turquoise river. Then head west to the Lake Mývatn region, teeming with volcanic marvels.

Wander through the eerie Dimmuborgir Lava Fields and the steaming Hverir Geothermal Area. For panoramic views, hike up the Hverfjall Crater. Don’t miss a quick visit to Grjótagjá Lava Cave, a steamy hotspot featured in Game of Thrones.

Spend the night in the otherworldly beauty of Mývatn.

Mývatn - Asbyrgi - Husavik

Tag 6: Diamond Route discover

Begin your journey along the Diamond Route with a visit to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, thundering through a rugged canyon.

Continue to the scenic Vesturdalur Valley where lava formations and lush landscapes await. Then explore the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon, steeped in legend and natural beauty.

End the day in the coastal town of Húsavík, known for its charm and whale-watching opportunities.

Husavik - Akureyri - Miðfjörður

Tag 7: Whales, waterfalls & coastal views

Start your morning in Húsavík with an optional whale watching tour. Then head to the majestic Goðafoss Waterfall, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods”.

Explore Akureyri, Iceland’s vibrant northern hub, before continuing along the scenic Tröllaskagi Peninsula, where dramatic cliffs and remote villages dot the coastline.

Conclude your day with an overnight stay in peaceful Miðfjörður.

Miðfjörður - Snæfellsnes Peninsula - Arnarstapi

Tag 8: Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Iceland in miniature

Journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a region showcasing Iceland’s diverse landscapes in one place.

Discover the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier volcano, followed by a walk along the black pebble beach of Djúpalónssandur and admire the volcanic sea stacks of Lóndrangar within the national park.

Finally, visit the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain and its nearby waterfall, famously featured in Game of Thrones.

End your day with an overnight stay in the charming coastal village of Arnarstapi, known for its dramatic cliffs and ocean views.

Arnarstapi - Reykholt - Arnarstapi

Tag 9: Volcanic craters & hot springs

Begin your day at Gerðuberg, where basalt column cliffs create a natural wall of geometric beauty. Hike to Eldborg Crater, a near-perfect volcanic cone rising from a lava field.

Detour to the enchanting waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss where water emerges from beneath lava rocks. Make a stop at the historic village of Reykholt, home to medieval sagas and Iceland’s oldest hot spring.

For those craving adventure, hike Hvalfjörður Fjord’s scenic trail to Glymur Waterfall.

End with another cozy overnight in Arnarstapi.

Reykholt - Reykjavik

Tag 10: From coast to capital

Begin your final day with a relaxed drive back to Reykjavík, allowing time for short scenic or cultural stops along the way. Soak in the last views of Iceland’s landscapes as you make your way to the city.

Return your rental car either in Reykjavík or at Keflavík International Airport. Say goodbye to this land of fire and ice as you board your flight home, carrying unforgettable memories of your Icelandic adventure.