Jan
min : -2°C
max : 1°C
We Love —
- Driving Iceland’s legendary Ring Road, with ever-changing scenery ranging from glaciers and volcanoes to fjords, waterfalls and black-sand beaches.
- Choosing your own pace, with itineraries ranging from 5 to 11 nights, allowing deeper exploration of iconic regions or hidden corners of the island.
- Experiencing raw, untouched nature every day, from geothermal wonders and lava fields to whale-watching shores and vast Arctic landscapes.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Your itinerary in brief —
Set off on a spectacular self-drive adventure along the Iceland Ring Road, a legendary route that circles the island and reveals its most dramatic landscapes. From volcanic plains and roaring waterfalls to glacial lagoons, fjords and geothermal wonders, this flexible road trip lets you experience the raw beauty of Iceland at your own pace.
Depending on the length of your stay, you will journey from Reykjavík to the Golden Circle, explore the wild South Coast and the vast Vatnajökull National Park, drive through the remote Eastern Fjords, discover the volcanic landscapes of Lake Mývatn and the north around Akureyri, and venture west towards Borgarfjörður and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Longer itineraries also allow time for whale watching in Húsavík or deeper exploration of Iceland’s lesser-known regions.
Your suggested itineraries:
5-night road trip:
Day 1: Reykjavík - Arrival
Day 2: Golden Circle & South Coast
Day 3: Vatnajökull National Park & East Fjords
Day 4: Lake Mývatn & Akureyri
Day 5: West Iceland
Day 6: Reykjavík - Departure
7-night road trip:
Day 1: Reykjavík - Arrival
Day 2: South Coast
Day 3: Vatnajökull National Park
Day 4: East Fjords
Day 5: Lake Mývatn
Day 6: Borgarfjörður
Day 7: Golden Circle
Day 8: Reykjavík - Departure
8-night road trip:
Day 1: Reykjavík - Arrival
Day 2: South Coast
Day 3: Vatnajökull National Park
Day 4: East Fjords
Day 5: Lake Mývatn
Day 6: Borgarfjörður
Day 7: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Day 8: Golden Circle
Day 9: Reykjavík - Departure
9-night road trip:
Day 1: Reykjavík - Arrival
Day 2: South Coast
Day 3: Vatnajökull National Park
Day 4: East Fjords
Day 5: Lake Mývatn
Day 6: Akureyri & Húsavík
Day 7: Borgarfjörður
Day 8: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Day 9: Golden Circle
Day 10: Reykjavík - Departure
10-night road trip:
Day 1: Reykjavík - Arrival
Day 2: South Coast
Day 3: Vatnajökull National Park
Day 4: East Fjords
Day 5: Egilsstaðir & surroundings
Day 6: Diamond Circle
Day 7: Lake Mývatn
Day 8: Akureyri & Húsavík
Day 9: Borgarfjörður
Day 10: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Day 11: Golden Circle
Day 10: Reykjavík - Departure
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
The freedom to explore:
Discover our expertly curated self-guided tours, designed to offer the perfect balance of structure and flexibility. While our travel experts suggest itineraries to help you explore each destination in depth, you have the freedom to tailor activities and pace to suit your personal preferences. Rest assured, the carefully selected hotels will remain as listed, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience throughout your journey.
Read more
Please note that your hotels may be located inside or outside cities and towns. You may park your car inside or outside the hotels (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply on-site.
Your itinerary in detail —
5-NIGHT ROAD TRIP
DAY 1: REYKJAVÍK – ARRIVAL
Upon arrival in Iceland, collect your hire car at the airport and begin your journey through the otherworldly lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Moss-covered rocks, vast volcanic plains and distant mountains create a striking introduction to the island’s raw beauty.
Continue towards Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital, where creativity, culture and Nordic charm blend effortlessly.
- Distance: approx. 31 miles
- Overnight in Reykjavík
DAY 2: GOLDEN CIRCLE & SOUTH COAST
Today begins with the iconic Golden Circle, home to three of Iceland’s most celebrated natural wonders.
Discover Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart, and where Iceland’s first parliament once gathered. Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts dramatically every few minutes, before reaching the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, plunging into a rugged canyon.
In the afternoon, drive south to admire two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascading water, and Skógafoss, famous for its sheer drop and frequent rainbows.
Continue to Vík í Mýrdal, the southernmost village in Iceland, and visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, renowned for its basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves. Later, drive east towards Kirkjubæjarklaustur, stopping at the dramatic Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, as well as the basalt formations of Kirkjugólf and nearby Systrafoss waterfall.
- Distance: approx. 236 miles
- Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area
- Breakfast included
DAY 3: VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK & EAST FJORDS
Drive towards Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park, known for its glaciers, hiking trails and spectacular scenery. A walk to Svartifoss, framed by dark basalt columns, offers a memorable contrast of ice, rock and water.
Continue to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift serenely towards the sea. Nearby, Diamond Beach sparkles with ice fragments scattered across black volcanic sand.
As you head north, the road winds through the East Fjords, revealing isolated fishing villages, dramatic coastal cliffs and sweeping fjord views. Pass through charming locations such as Djúpivogur and Breiðdalsvík, before arriving in Egilsstaðir, the main town of eastern Iceland, located near the mysterious Lake Lagarfljót.
- Distance: approx. 288 miles
- Overnight in the Egilsstaðir area
- Breakfast included
DAY 4: LAKE MÝVATN & AKUREYRI
Cross the vast black desert of north-east Iceland en route to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Its thunderous cascade into a deep canyon is a humbling display of natural force.
Arrive at Lake Mývatn, a region shaped by volcanic activity and rich in birdlife. Explore the steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools of Námaskarð, hike around the volcanic crater Hverfjall, and wander through the lava formations of Dimmuborgir, a maze of rock arches and caves steeped in folklore.
Optional time at the Mývatn Nature Baths offers a relaxing geothermal pause before continuing west. Stop at Goðafoss, the legendary “Waterfall of the Gods”, before reaching Akureyri, the lively capital of northern Iceland.
- Distance: approx. 205 miles
- Overnight in the Akureyri area
- Breakfast included
DAY 5: WEST ICELAND
Depart Akureyri towards Skagafjörður, a region famed for Icelandic horse breeding and rich cultural heritage. Continue west to Borgarfjörður, an area blending history and striking natural sites.
Visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and the historic site of Reykholt, once home to medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson. Nearby, admire the unique waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, where glacial waters stream through ancient lava fields.
Return to Reykjavík in the evening. Celebrate your final night with the city’s lively culinary scene, cultural landmarks such as Harpa Concert Hall, or a relaxed stroll through its creative districts.
- Distance: approx. 310 miles
- Overnight in Reykjavík
- Breakfast included
DAY 6: REYKJAVÍK - DEPARTURE
Drive to Keflavík International Airport, return your hire car and conclude your unforgettable Icelandic adventure.
- Distance: approx. 31 miles
- Breakfast included
Read more
7-NIGHT ROAD TRIP
DAY 1: REYKJAVÍK – ARRIVAL
Upon arrival in Iceland, collect your hire car at the airport and begin your journey across the surreal lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Moss-covered rocks, vast volcanic plains and distant mountains form a striking introduction to Iceland’s raw landscapes.
Drive onwards to Reykjavík, the country’s vibrant capital, where Nordic culture, creativity and coastal charm come together.
- Distance: approx. 31 miles
- Overnight in Reykjavík
DAY 2: SOUTH COAST
Drive along Iceland’s spectacular South Coast, home to some of the island’s most iconic scenery. Begin with Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascading water for a unique perspective, before continuing to the powerful Skógafoss, known for its dramatic drop and frequent rainbows.
Further along the coast, stop at Dyrhólaey, a rugged headland offering sweeping views over the ocean and its famous rock arch. Nearby, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach reveals towering basalt columns and the thundering waves of the North Atlantic.
Continue to Vík í Mýrdal, a charming coastal village dominated by its hilltop church and surrounded by dramatic cliffs and open sea.
- Distance: approx. 140 miles
- Overnight in the Vík area
- Breakfast included
DAY 3: VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK
Depart from Vík and travel east towards Vatnajökull National Park, a realm shaped by glaciers, volcanic forces and endless horizons. Stop in the Skaftafell region for views of glacier tongues descending from Europe’s largest ice cap and hike towards Svartifoss, framed by striking basalt columns.
Continue to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift serenely before washing ashore on nearby Diamond Beach, glittering against black volcanic sand.
Your journey ends in Höfn, a picturesque fishing town offering panoramic views of Vatnajökull and renowned for its excellent langoustine dishes.
- Distance: approx. 277 miles
- Overnight in the Höfn area
- Breakfast included
DAY 4: EAST FJORDS
Leaving Höfn behind, follow the coastal road through the remote and unspoilt East Fjords. This scenic drive winds between steep mountains and deep fjords, revealing ever-changing views of cliffs, sea and secluded fishing villages.
Pause in charming towns such as Djúpivogur, known for its artistic spirit and birdlife, and Fáskrúðsfjörður, once home to French fishermen whose heritage still shapes the village today.
As you head inland, the landscape softens into fertile valleys and salmon rivers before reaching Egilsstaðir, the main town of eastern Iceland, near the legendary Lake Lagarfljót.
- Distance: approx. 168 miles
- Overnight in the Egilsstaðir area
- Breakfast included
DAY 5: LAKE MÝVATN
Cross the vast black deserts of north-east Iceland towards Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, where roaring water plunges into a dramatic canyon.
Arrive at Lake Mývatn, a geothermal wonderland rich in birdlife and volcanic formations. Explore the steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools of Námaskarð, hike the rim of Hverfjall crater, and wander through the mythical lava formations of Dimmuborgir.
Optional time at the Mývatn Nature Baths offers a relaxing geothermal pause before continuing west. Stop at Goðafoss, the legendary “Waterfall of the Gods”, before reaching Akureyri, the lively capital of northern Iceland.
- Distance: approx. 208 miles
- Overnight in the Akureyri area
- Breakfast included
DAY 6: BORGARFJÖRÐUR
Depart Akureyri and travel west through Skagafjörður, a region steeped in Icelandic horse culture and Viking history. Visit the traditional turf farm at Glaumbær before crossing the highland plateau of Holtavörðuheiði.
In Borgarfjörður, explore Reykholt, once home to medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson, and see Snorri’s Pool, one of Iceland’s earliest geothermal baths. Continue to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, before visiting the remarkable waterfalls Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, where glacial waters flow through ancient lava fields.
End the day in Borgarnes, where the Settlement Centre brings Iceland’s saga history vividly to life.
- Distance: approx. 249 miles
- Overnight in the Borgarfjörðu area
- Breakfast included
DAY 7: GOLDEN CIRCLE
Drive south towards Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense historical and geological importance. Walk through Almannagjá Gorge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates drift apart, and visit Öxarárfoss waterfall.
Continue to the Geysir geothermal area in the Haukadalur Valley, where Strokkur erupts every few minutes, sending boiling water high into the air. Finish the day at Gullfoss, the spectacular “Golden Waterfall”, plunging into a deep canyon with immense force.
Return to Reykjavík for your final night.
- Distance: approx. 183 miles
- Overnight in Reykjavík
- Breakfast included
DAY 8: REYKJAVÍK - DEPARTURE
Drive to Keflavík International Airport, return your hire car and conclude your unforgettable Icelandic adventure.
- Distance: approx. 31 miles
- Breakfast included
Read more
8-NIGHT ROAD TRIP
Days 1 to 6 follow the same detailed itinerary as the 7-night tour.
DAY 7: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA
Explore the diverse landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in miniature”. Begin at the striking basalt columns of Gerðuberg, then continue to Ytri Tunga Beach, known for its golden sand and seal colonies.
Discover the fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, linked by a scenic coastal path offering dramatic views of sea stacks and cliffs. Enter Snæfellsjökull National Park, dominated by the glacier-capped volcano Snæfellsjökull, a site steeped in legend and natural beauty.
Visit Djúpalónssandur, a haunting black pebble beach scattered with remnants of historic shipwrecks, before reaching Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains, rising above the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.
- Distance: approx. 186 miles
- Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area
- Breakfast included
DAY 8: GOLDEN CIRCLE
Drive south towards Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates drift apart. Walk through Almannagjá Gorge and visit Öxarárfoss waterfall.
Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts every few minutes, before ending at Gullfoss, the magnificent “Golden Waterfall”, plunging into a deep canyon.
Return to Reykjavík for your final evening.
- Distance: approx. 183 miles
- Overnight in Reykjavík
- Breakfast included
DAY 8: REYKJAVÍK - DEPARTURE
Drive to Keflavík International Airport, return your hire car and conclude your unforgettable Icelandic adventure.
- Distance: approx. 31 miles
- Breakfast included
9-NIGHT ROAD TRIP
Days 1 to 5 follow the same detailed itinerary as the 7-night tour.
DAY 6: AKUREYRI & HÚSAVÍK
Travel north to Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital. Optional excursions offer the chance to spot minke whales, humpbacks and, at times, orcas. Visit the Whale Museum to learn more about Iceland’s marine life.
Alternatively, head inland to Ásbyrgi Canyon, a striking horseshoe-shaped glacial formation surrounded by sheer cliffs and rare woodland.
Return south via Goðafoss and continue to Akureyri, where you can explore the botanical gardens, charming centre and harbourfront.
- Distance: approx. 93 miles
- Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area
- Breakfast included
DAY 7: BORGARFJÖRÐUR
Leave Akureyri and head west through Skagafjörður, a region known for Icelandic horses and Viking heritage. Visit the turf farm at Glaumbær, then cross the highland plateau of Holtavörðuheiði.
In Borgarfjörður, discover Reykholt, the former home of medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson, and see Snorri’s Pool. Continue to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, before visiting Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, two strikingly different waterfalls.
- Distance: approx. 249 miles
- Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area
- Breakfast included
DAY 8: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA
Explore the diverse landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in miniature”. Begin at the striking basalt columns of Gerðuberg, then continue to Ytri Tunga Beach, known for its golden sand and seal colonies.
Discover the fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, linked by a scenic coastal path offering dramatic views of sea stacks and cliffs. Enter Snæfellsjökull National Park, dominated by the glacier-capped volcano Snæfellsjökull, a site steeped in legend and natural beauty.
Visit Djúpalónssandur, a haunting black pebble beach scattered with remnants of historic shipwrecks, before reaching Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains, rising above the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.
- Distance: approx. 186 miles
- Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area
- Breakfast included
DAY 9: GOLDEN CIRCLE
Drive south towards Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates drift apart. Walk through Almannagjá Gorge and visit Öxarárfoss waterfall.
Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts every few minutes, before ending at Gullfoss, the magnificent “Golden Waterfall”, plunging into a deep canyon.
Return to Reykjavík for your final evening.
- Distance: approx. 183 miles
- Overnight in Reykjavík
- Breakfast included
DAY 10: REYKJAVÍK - DEPARTURE
Drive to Keflavík International Airport, return your hire car and conclude your unforgettable Icelandic adventure.
- Distance: approx. 31 miles
- Breakfast included
11-NIGHT ROAD TRIP
Days 1 to 4 follow the same detailed itinerary as the 7-night tour.
DAY 5: EGILSSTAÐIR & SURROUNDINGS
Spend the day exploring the beautiful east at your own pace. Drive to Seyðisfjörður, an artistic fjord town known for its colourful wooden houses, or head to Borgarfjörður Eystri and Bakkagerði, a superb area for birdlife, especially puffins.
For culture, visit Skriðuklaustur and, if you wish, hike to Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls. To finish the day in style, unwind at the Vök Baths, with floating geothermal pools on the clear waters of Lake Urriðavatn.
- Distance: approx. 155 miles
- Overnight in the Egilsstaðir area
- Breakfast included
DAY 6: DIAMOND CIRCLE
Drive towards Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, then continue to Ásbyrgi Canyon, a dramatic horseshoe-shaped formation steeped in Norse legend.
Next, head to Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital (we recommend an optional whale-watching excursion), before ending the day in the geothermal landscapes of Lake Mývatn.
- Distance: approx. 205 miles
- Overnight in the Mývatn area
- Breakfast included
DAY 7: LAKE MÝVATN
Today is dedicated to the surreal volcanic world of Lake Mývatn. Explore the steaming geothermal fields of Námaskarð, the crater rim of Hverfjall, and the lava labyrinth of Dimmuborgir, where folklore and geology intertwine.
If you fancy a soothing pause, the Mývatn Nature Baths are a wonderful option. Later, continue west via Goðafoss, the legendary “Waterfall of the Gods”, before arriving in Akureyri.
- Distance: approx. 208 miles
- Overnight in the Akureyri area
- Breakfast included
DAY 8: AKUREYRI & HÚSAVÍK
Travel north to Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital. Optional excursions offer the chance to spot minke whales, humpbacks and, at times, orcas. Visit the Whale Museum to learn more about Iceland’s marine life.
Alternatively, head inland to Ásbyrgi Canyon, a striking horseshoe-shaped glacial formation surrounded by sheer cliffs and rare woodland.
Return south via Goðafoss and continue to Akureyri, where you can explore the botanical gardens, charming centre and harbourfront.
- Distance: approx. 93 miles
- Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area
- Breakfast included
DAY 9: BORGARFJÖRÐUR
Leave Akureyri and head west through Skagafjörður, a region known for Icelandic horses and Viking heritage. Visit the turf farm at Glaumbær, then cross the highland plateau of Holtavörðuheiði.
In Borgarfjörður, discover Reykholt, the former home of medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson, and see Snorri’s Pool. Continue to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, before visiting Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, two strikingly different waterfalls.
- Distance: approx. 249 miles
- Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area
- Breakfast included
DAY 10: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA
Explore the diverse landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in miniature”. Begin at the striking basalt columns of Gerðuberg, then continue to Ytri Tunga Beach, known for its golden sand and seal colonies.
Discover the fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, linked by a scenic coastal path offering dramatic views of sea stacks and cliffs. Enter Snæfellsjökull National Park, dominated by the glacier-capped volcano Snæfellsjökull, a site steeped in legend and natural beauty.
Visit Djúpalónssandur, a haunting black pebble beach scattered with remnants of historic shipwrecks, before reaching Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains, rising above the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.
- Distance: approx. 186 miles
- Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area
- Breakfast included
DAY 11: GOLDEN CIRCLE
Drive south towards Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates drift apart. Walk through Almannagjá Gorge and visit Öxarárfoss waterfall.
Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts every few minutes, before ending at Gullfoss, the magnificent “Golden Waterfall”, plunging into a deep canyon.
Return to Reykjavík for your final evening.
- Distance: approx. 183 miles
- Overnight in Reykjavík
- Breakfast included
DAY 12: REYKJAVÍK - DEPARTURE
Drive to Keflavík International Airport, return your hire car and conclude your unforgettable Icelandic adventure.
- Distance: approx. 31 miles
- Breakfast included
Read more
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
During your self-drive tour, you may choose to stay in Standard or Comfort category hotels, carefully selected for their location and comfort (or similar).
Standard hotels (or similar):
Reykjavík: Reykjavik Lights
Kirkjubæjarklaustur: Fosshotel Núpar (5-night tour only)
Vík: Hotel Katla (from 7-night tours)
Egilsstaðir: Hotel Valaskjálf
Höfn: Hotel Smyrlabjörg (from 7-night tours)
Akureyri: Hotel Akureyri
Mývatn: Sel Hotel (from 9-night tours)
Borgarfjörður: Fosshotel Reykholt
Comfort hotels (or similar):
Reykjavík: Grand Hotel Reykjavík
Kirkjubæjarklaustur: Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon(5-night tour only)
Vík: Vík Hotel (from 7-night tours)
Höfn: Fosshotel Vatnajökull (from 7-night tours)
Egilsstaðir: Lake Hotel
Mývatn: Fosshotel Mývatn (from 9-night tours)
Akureyri: Berjaya Akureyri or Kea Hotel
Borgarfjörður: Varmaland Hotel
If any of the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be accommodated in hotels of a similar standard. Local standards apply.
The maximum capacity of the rooms is 2 adults.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Your included services —
Icelandic road tax
Mandatory road tax included for the entire duration of your stay (based on a 24-hour rental period).
Your journey to Iceland —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
Iceland
Iceland, a land of striking contrasts, invites travellers to experience its otherworldly beauty, where glaciers meet volcanic landscapes and folklore blends with modern life. This remote Nordic island offers a unique fusion of dramatic scenery, geothermal wonders, and a deep-rooted cultural heritage shaped by centuries of storytelling and exploration.
Must-sees:
- Þingvellir National Park – A UNESCO-listed site where history and geology converge, home to the ancient Viking parliament and the meeting point of two tectonic plates.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – A mesmerising expanse of floating icebergs, where visitors can witness nature's raw beauty and perhaps spot a few seals basking on the ice.
- Reykjanes Peninsula – Often overlooked, this rugged coastal region is dotted with steaming fumaroles, dramatic cliffs, and Iceland’s famed Blue Lagoon, an oasis of warm, mineral-rich waters.
Culinary culture:
Iceland’s cuisine reflects its harsh yet bountiful environment, with fresh seafood, free-roaming lamb, and innovative uses of local ingredients. Traditional dishes such as plokkfiskur (creamy fish stew) and rye bread baked using geothermal heat are must-tries, while modern Reykjavik restaurants experiment with Nordic flavours, bringing creativity to every plate.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its famous landmarks, Iceland’s lesser-known treasures reward those willing to explore. The Westfjords remain an untouched paradise, with towering cliffs, remote fishing villages, and Europe’s westernmost point, Látrabjarg, home to vast colonies of puffins. In the north, the town of Akureyri offers a glimpse into Icelandic daily life, with its botanical gardens flourishing just below the Arctic Circle.
Good to know:
The ideal time to visit is late spring to early autumn for long daylight hours and accessible roads, while winter offers the mesmerising Northern Lights. Iceland’s landscapes are as unpredictable as its weather—layered clothing and sturdy footwear are essential for exploring its rugged terrain. Car rentals are popular, but the country's extensive network of guided tours ensures a hassle-free journey into the wild.
