Iceland Ring Road Map With Main Attractions and Highlights 

The circular highway—commonly known as Route 1 or the Ring Road—is very familiar to the travel community. Winding through some of Iceland’s most iconic and captivating destinations, this path draws visitors worldwide. But how many truly know what attractions lie along the way or how far apart they are? You will find a detailed Icelandic Ring Road map, essential for anyone seeking a safe, well-planned, and adventurous journey. 

> Keep Iceland’s best sights at your fingertips with our printable Ring Road map—ideal for offline use on the go! 

The Ring Road map in Iceland is straightforward—it loops around the entire island, passing through the South Coast, Eastfjords, North Coast, and the west before circling back to Reykjavík. If you're planning a road trip, Route 1 is practically unavoidable. That’s why we’ve created a downloadable Iceland Ring Road map in PDF form. It marks key towns and attractions, outlines the main route, and helps you navigate without missing must-see stops. You can print it out or use it on your phone while traveling. 

The main Icelandic Ring Road attractions are spread out across the 1,322 km (821 mi) long highway. While many well-known sights are concentrated in the southern and eastern regions, the north and west offer vistas and panoramas of rural landscapes. Knowing what lies ahead builds excitement and helps ensure your journey runs smoothly. Here are some of the top Icelandic Ring Road highlights to visit: 

The top sights along the Ring Road are as varied as they are beautiful. While waterfalls are the most abundant, you’ll also encounter geological formations shaped by volcanic eruptions or years of glacier erosion. Some of the Icelandic Ring Road stops that are worth visiting include: 

1. Seljalandsfoss—One of the most famous waterfalls on the South Coast, near the road leading to Thorsmork nature reserve. What makes this 60 m (196 ft) tall fall special is the various views you can experience. You can admire it head-on or from the sides, but the real highlight is the path leading to a nearby cove. If you follow it, instead of a pot of gold, you’re treated to a view of the cascading water and the massive landscape before it. While you’re in the area, visit Gljúfrabúi, a hidden gem whose waterfall flows within a narrow canyon framed by rocky walls. 
   
   
2. Skógafoss—A waterfall in the Skógar village right near the Ring Road in the South Coast. The 60 m (196 ft) tall and 25 m (82 ft) wide cascade, supplied by the Skógá river, showcases Earth's raw and massive power. As the water crashes into a pool below, the droplets create a mist that could yield a couple of rainbows if the weather cards play right. While the view from the base is spectacular, you can also climb to the top for a completely different perspective of this natural wonder. 
   
   
3. Dyrhólaey—A peninsula on the South Coast, home to more smaller attractions. Most come here for the rock formations, which have been eroded over the years by the relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Up for a walk? There are black sand beaches on both sides that invite exploration. Interested in panorama views instead? The lookout points near Dyrhólaey Lighthouse offer sweeping vistas of the endless blue sea.
   
   
4. Reynisfjara—A famous black sand beach between Dyrhólaey in the west and Vík in the east. This stretch of coast faces the mighty Atlantic, whose waves crash into the obsidian-colored ground. Just off the coast are basalt Reynisdrangar sea stacks—ocean-defending wonders topped with mossy patches. TV fans might recognize this location as a set piece for the popular HBO show Game of Thrones. 

5. Eldhraun—A lava field on the south coast that separates southern settlements from the Vatnajökull area, one of the three national parks in Iceland. The 565 km2 (218 mi2) large wonder came about from one of Earth's largest volcanic lava flows. While the moss-covered landscape is fine to admire from a distance, walking on it is prohibited. The delicate greenery took decades to grow over the hardened magma, making it rare and fragile. 
   
   
6. Fjaðrárgljúfur—A canyon in the Southeast of Iceland, near the Kirkjubæjarklaustur village. The 2 km (1.24 mi) long ravine came out during the last ice age, due to a glacier river cutting through the land and carving out a 100 m (328 ft) deep marvel. Fjaðrá River flows through it before eventually connecting to the bigger Skaftá. For pop fans: this ravine is where Justin Bieber filmed the “I’ll Show You” video clip. 
   
   
7. Lómagnúpur—A towering mountain near the massive Vatnajökull glacier and right by the Ring Road. It’s considered one of the most photographed ridges in Iceland, and for good reason. The formation curves around a small stream like a horseshoe, surrounded by a black sand plateau. Getting close to it can be dangerous; luckily, you can enjoy the whole spectacle from Route 1 or the dirt parking lot near it.
   
   
8. Skaftafell—An area and nature reserve in the southwest of the giant Vatnajökull park. The preserve is an epicenter of natural beauty, and hiking trails open doors for enjoying it all. One of the paths leads to Svartifoss waterfall, whose dark basalt columns inspired Reykjavik’s Hallgrímskirkja church. Test your strength on various glacier tours that are as difficult as they are rewarding. 

9. Jökulsárlón / Diamond beach—A glacier lagoon where blue, tranquil waters and white icebergs participate in a cold, beautiful dance. The wonder's story starts with Breiðamerkurjökull, whose slow retreat brought about the pool we see today. Organized tours allow visitors to explore the site via kayaking and boating expeditions during the warmer months. However, if you’re more of a hiking enthusiast, walk the shores of the shimmering water in combination with the black sands and crystal cubes of the nearby Diamond Beach. 
   
   
10. Saxa cliff—A cliff in the Eastfjords near Stodvarfjordur village that overlooks the almost-endless Atlantic Ocean. Though the lack of a parking lot and signs makes this spot easy to miss, the ”grinder” shooting waters might catch your attention and lead you to the shoreline. Here, you’ll find a sea geyser, a formation where debris and water collect in a tight space before erupting in a grand display. 
    
    
11. Lagarfljót—A body of water in the Eastfjords, right by the settlements of Egilsstaðir, the region's biggest town, and Hallormsstaður. Around 112 m (367 ft) deep, the lake's actual depth lies in the local folklore stories. Myths state that a Lagarfljót Worm, a dragon or serpent-like creature, resides here. Though the reality of this tale remains unproven, locals continue to embrace the monster in their festivals and celebrations.
    
    
12. Mývatn—A large lake, born from volcanic eruptions 2,300 years ago, now oozing in serene beauty. The same allure that attracts people also brings in various bird species in summer, including tufted ducks and whooper swans. Besides birdwatching, you can hike to Myvatn Geothermal Area or Nature Baths for a relaxing time. Combine that with sightseeing of nearby Grjótagjá cave and the solid lava fields of Dimmuborgir. 

13. Goðafoss—A bend-shaped waterfall where the water falls 12 m (39.4 ft) in a half-circle shape. Though most people tend to view the spectacle from the ridge, you can also descend to the banks of the river for a more impressive view of the horseshoe-shaped cascade. Along with Mývatn, Jökulsárgljúfur, and a couple more wonders, this watery show is part of the Diamond Circle—a popular detour and rival to the Golden Circle. 
    
    
14. Grábrók—A volcanic crater in West Iceland and one of the final major attractions found near the Ring Road. It’s one of the largest formations in the region, measuring around 170 m (558 ft) in height. Though the steep volcanic rock slopes, the steps leading to the top are well maintained. From the rim, you’re greeted with two views. Inside, you’ll find reddish sides with moss cover leading to the center. Outside, the vast expanses of the West open up for your enjoyment.
    
    
15. Deildartunguhver—A fiercely active hot spring located near Route 1, just north of the Silver Circle route. Deildartunguhver is Europe’s most powerful hot spring, pumping out around 180 liters (48 gallons) of near-boiling water every second at 97°C (207°F). The water surges straight from the ground through moss-covered rocks and vents, sending clouds of steam drifting over the landscape. It’s a short detour, but well worth it for anyone curious about Iceland’s intense geothermal energy in action. 

Major settlements in Iceland are few and far between. However, each region has one or two towns that act as a resupply or rest point for travelers. Here are some of the urban Ring Road Icelandic stops worth including:  

1. Reykjavík—Iceland’s vibrant capital is the cultural and historical heart of the island. It’s home to the famous Harpa Concert Hall and Hallgrímskirkja church, both icons of the city's unique architecture. Strolling through downtown, you'll find cozy cafes, local restaurants, and a variety of accommodations—from boutique hotels to guesthouses. Reykjavik also serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby natural wonders like the Golden Circle and the South Coast. For solo travelers, the city has shops for groceries and essentials, as well as car rental places for various vehicles. 
   
   
2. Selfoss—South Coast’s center of population and commerce. The city lies right on the Ring Road and the banks of the Ölfusá river, making it the gateway to the southern parts of Iceland. While the sun still shines, head to the shops to resupply or walk around the town and try some locally made dishes. Make good use of the time with a visit to Handverksskúrinn Selfossi for handcrafted souvenirs. As the lights go out, enjoy music and conversations in the bars before calling it a night in Hótel Selfoss.  
   
   
3. Vík—The southernmost village in Iceland, on the tip of the South Coast and right on the Ring Road. Expect to see more cozy guesthouses than three-star hotels here, and restaurants that focus on Icelandic cuisine. The settlement is a jumping-off point for exploring waterfalls like Skógafoss and glaciers like Mýrdalsjökull. Right by are the black sand beaches of Víkurfjara and Reynisfjara—the former connects to Dyrhólaey Peninsula.  

4. Egilsstaðir—Eastfjord’s largest city and a jewel connecting the eastern fjords and parts of the Highlands with Iceland's southern and northern regions. Through branching roads, people can drive to colorful Seydisfjordur or even the Wilderness Center in the southwest. Outside the urban area is a shifting mountainous terrain and lush swathes of greenery. 
   
   
5. Akureyri—Iceland’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of the north. In the summer, the surrounding landscapes open up to hikers, road trippers, and whale watchers alike. The Arctic Coastway offers breathtaking drives, while nearby waters teem with marine life. Winter snow transforms the region into a playground for skiers, snowboarders, and other winter sports lovers. Prefer a slower pace? Stroll through one of the world’s northernmost botanical gardens, where over 6,000 plant species defy the latitude. And when the day winds down, you’ll find comfort in elegant hotels and cozy guesthouses. 
   
   
6. Borgarnes—The last of the significant towns found directly on the Ring Road. What was once one of the original Viking settlements is now a gateway to the capital region and Snæfellsnes peninsula. Most visitors who go to the “Iceland in Miniature” resupply or stay here overnight in a three-star hotel, guesthouse, or a hostel. Besides serving as a hub point for travelers, welcoming cafes, green Skallagrímsgarður Park, and a swimming pool make even a short stop worthwhile.