Iceland has a lot to offer, but how to choose the best & optimal itinerary? I traveled to Iceland for 1 week, and I’m sharing my itinerary based on all my experiences with you. I’ve also written a separate article with things to do for each destination on this itinerary. Discovering Iceland has never been easier!
Transportation for this Iceland Itinerary
Popular transport includes tours, or self drive. Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) stretches the whole island, connecting the capital to the towns and attractions of the south coast and more, and offering you the option to do day trips from Reykjavik itself! So whether you’re renting a car or want a guide to take you there, the short driving times mean you can see a lot in a few days.
Tip: We did not drive due to the snowfall and went on day tours where transport was included.
How many days do you need in Iceland?
Iceland can be done in 2 weeks easily, but if you want to take your time, you should take 3 weeks. We’ve seen the southern part of Iceland in 1 week. Now I want to see the whole of Iceland!
1-Week Iceland Itinerary
On both Thursdays we had our flights. We started on Friday with Reykjavik. On Saturday we did the Golden Circle day tour. Sunday we did another day at Reykjavik. In the evening we went to see the New Year’s Eve Fireworks show. On Monday we did the whale watching tour. On Tuesday we did the South Coast of Iceland day tour (we recommend at least 2 days here and not to rush it in one day like we did). As the last full day on Wednesday, we did some shopping, walked in the park, walked around the marina bay, and went on a Northern Lights tour (and saw them!).
Sad Fact: Blue Lagoon was still closed due to the volcano eruption at Grindavik. Otherwise, we would have done it on Wednesday.
Reykjavik | 4 Days
When you land in Iceland, it’s still quite the drive to Reykjavik but trust me it’s worth it! Reykjavik city has lots ot offer besides going on whale watching tours, northern lights watching tours, and eating its famous hot dog. Rea my things to do in Reykjavik.
Optional: Golden Circle Day Trip
Iceland’s Golden Circle is a popular route between 3 of Iceland’s most visited attractions. Starting in Reykjavik, you’ll drive into the southern uplands and back, visiting Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Read more about it in my Golden Circle Day Trip article.
South Coast Iceland
See Iceland’s most magical natural wonders durin a South Coast visit! Think black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, waterfalls, ice caps, mountains, volcanoes, wildlife, and more. You will also visit some film locations that can be seen in Game of Thrones! Read my tips for a Day Trip South Coast Iceland and Game of Thrones Film Locations!
I would also add to pay a visit to Braud & Co to grab one of their delicious cinnamon buns!