Iceland's Ring Road: Ultimate Guide to Top Attractions and Driving Tips

Iceland’s Ring Road is a fully paved highway that circles the island. Known as Þjóðvegur 1, Route 1, or Highway 1, it connects even the most remote regions, all while beginning and ending in Reykjavik. The best part? You can’t miss it.

Whether you're heading to the Golden Circle, exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or venturing into the eastern fjords, this route is your gateway. Open year-round—even in winter—the circle highway is the ultimate self-drive attraction and a must for Iceland. The stunning sights along the way make it one of the planet's most breathtaking road trip routes!

Simply put, the Ring Road is a two-lane highway that loops around the entire island, with a length of 1,322 km (821 mi). This Icelandic highway is the backbone of the country’s transport network. Connected by minor numbered roads like F35 and Route 85, it extends to far-off regions such as the Highlands and North Coast, linking even the most secluded parts of the island.

This unique route includes the best places to visit in Iceland, covering the island’s major regions. The path winds through the rugged mountain passes of the Eastfjords, spans bridges over glacial rivers, and cuts across the volcanic deserts of the South Coast. As it nears the Arctic Ocean, the route takes travelers through the lush, green landscapes of the North Coast before descending over the western plateaus and the volcanic terrain of Reykjanes. As a bonus, this scenic loop connects southern villages like Vík, the eastern gem of Egilsstaðir, and northern havens like Akureyri—all leading back to Reykjavik.

In terms of conditions, Route 1 in Iceland is fully paved and accessible year-round, even in winter. While some sections can get slippery, driving the Ring Road is generally safe and enjoyable. For those who prefer not to tackle long distances alone, plenty of guided Ring Road tours offer the chance to explore it comfortably with an expert leading the way.

Icelandic Route 1 traces the coastline, staying clear of the rough Highland interior that’s hard for most vehicles to navigate. This scenic loop passes through the South Coast, Eastfjords, North Coast, Western Iceland, and the upper section of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Iceland's Ring Road map with attractions shows the route passing through breathtaking stops like the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, the Mývatn area, and Egilsstaðir. As a bonus, travelers can take detours to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Golden Circle. When comparing the Ring Road vs Golden Circle in Iceland, the national loop is around 1,322 km (821 mi), while the local one is just 300 km (190 mi), almost five times smaller.

While Route number one stays the same length, the time it takes to complete the journey varies. A non-stop drive may be faster, but it comes at the cost of missing out on the incredible scenery that deserves time to be fully appreciated. For the best experience, go on a multi-day journey. While some travelers complete it in just a few days, a week-long adventure is ideal for taking in everything without feeling rushed. 

As for direction, whether you drive the Icelandic Ring Road clockwise or counterclockwise won’t affect the overall duration. Going counterclockwise means hitting the most popular tourist spots first before reaching quieter regions. The opposite lets you ease into the journey with more secluded stops before arriving at the busier attractions. Here’s a breakdown of Icelandic road trip durations, along with benefits and suggested pacing:

The ideal length of your Icelandic Ring Road trip depends on your time constraints and how deeply you want to explore. A non-stop drive takes about 17 to 20 hours in perfect conditions, but it’s not recommended—especially for first-time visitors or during winter. Best to start with the minimum amount of 4–5 days, which means you’ll drive for 4–6 hours daily with brief stops at major sights. The most optimal time period of 7–8 days provides a good balance with 3–4 hour drives each day, but it also gives more time for key attraction explorations.

If you have more flexibility, a 10+ day journey offers a relaxed pace, with 2–3 hour drives, longer hikes, and extra stops. For those cycling the Icelandic Ring Road, expect the trip to take up to two weeks, factoring in weather changes and rest days—best attempted in summer when conditions are more favorable.

The journey begins in Reykjavik and goes to one of the best stops on Ring Road—Golden Circle. From there, travelers head to the South Coast, home to many of Iceland’s waterfalls. Further along, the route reaches the icy Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon before winding through the rugged Eastfjords. Next comes the raw Icelandic landscapes of the north. The trip then rounds out in West Iceland, with the option to detour at the scenic Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Westfjorðs, or Silver Circle.

Your Ring Road trip starts and ends in the biggest city on the island, Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital and cultural hub. It’s home to several supermarkets, making it perfect for resupplying and grabbing items you’ll need on the way, including fuel, sunglasses, and clothing.

Sightseeing Around Reykjavik
Sightseeing is one of the best things to do in Reykjavík due to the large number of beautiful buildings. The city is home to some of Iceland’s most remarkable churches, such as Háteigskirkja and Landakotskirkja, each showcasing distinct architectural styles. However, the most iconic is Hallgrímskirkja, with its soaring columns inspired by the basalt formations of the Svartifoss waterfall. Harpa Concert Hall near Faxaflói Bay is a must-see for those who appreciate modern design. Its stunning steel-and-glass facade has earned multiple awards for its innovative construction, making it a standout landmark in the capital.

Outside of Reykjavik
Outside the city limits, several hot springs offer the perfect way to unwind before embarking on your journey. One of the optional pre-trip stops is the Blue Lagoon, where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters to melt any stress away. Since it’s a top attraction year-round, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.

Just outside Reykjavik and accessible via Routes 35 and 36, you’ll find the Golden Circle of Iceland—the first optional detour of your journey. This route features three major natural wonders, each easily reachable via paved roads. While the Golden Circle adds an extra 300 km (190 mi) to the already impressive 1,322 km (821 mi) of the Ring Road, it’s a popular choice for travelers because of its proximity and accessibility.

Thingvellir Park
The first stop on the Golden Circle is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and geological marvel where two tectonic plates converge. Here, you can see the separation between the Eurasian and North American continents. To fully experience the park, swim in the Silfra Fissure rift or hike through the Almannagjá Gorge for an additional adventure.

Geysir Geothermal Area
Next, you'll encounter the erupting waters of the Geysir geothermal area, with its bubbling hot springs scattered throughout the landscape. While the famous Great Geysir is currently inactive, you can witness the powerful eruptions of Strokkur, a nearby geyser. The wonder regularly blasts water up to 40 m (130 ft) into the air, offering an impressive display of nature's force.

Gullfoss waterfall
The final highlight of the Golden Circle is the stunning Gullfoss waterfall, also known as the Golden Falls. This two-tiered beauty plunges 32 m (105 ft), and its thunderous roar will likely reach you before you see it. As an added bonus, if you return to the Ring Road via Route 35, you’ll pass by the Kerid Crater, a striking volcanic formation with red slopes and a vibrant blue lake at its center.

Iceland’s South Coast is a showstopper on the circle loop since drivers travel through landscapes carved by ice, water, and fire. As it links the western and eastern parts of the island, you’ll cross rivers, drive alongside glaciers, and encounter sights that feel almost otherworldly. With every twist and turn, there’s another wonderful landmark to discover and explore.

Icelandic waterfalls
The South Coast stands out for multiple cascades that are fed by glacier meltwater. As you pass through Selfoss, the gateway city to the south, the first waterfall you'll encounter is Seljalandsfoss. Though smaller, visitors can walk behind it for a beautiful view of the surrounding area and flowing water. Right after this is the Skógafoss cascade in Skóga village—big, powerful, and majestic, with a 60 m (196 ft) drop that extends 25 m (82 ft) in width.

Land of glaciers
Behind these waterfalls are rivers fed by glaciers in Iceland, with two prominently located right along the Ring Road: Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull. These ice caps sit atop volcanoes, and the latter famously erupted in 2010. Today, it’s a calm place, with visitors encouraged to explore ice caves and outlets stretching from these two Icelandic wonders.

Vik and the black sand beaches
As you continue, the road eventually hugs the shoreline, leading you to Vik, the southernmost village at the tip of the region. It’s a great place to rest your limbs, with many accommodation choices. Plus, a gas station near the village exit makes resupplying quick and convenient. While in Vik, don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Reynisfjara’s black sand beach. If you walk to the entirety of the coastal wonder, you might see Dyrholaey Cape, a rock formation with a hole in it. 

East of the South Coast
Leaving Vik behind, Route 1 takes drivers through the Eldhraun lava field, one of the largest in Iceland, formed by the Lakagigar crater eruption. Nearby is Fjaðrárgljúfur, a beautiful canyon famous for being the filming location for Justin Bieber’s “I’ll Show You” music video.

As you head northeast, the lush greenery slowly fades into glacial landscapes. You'll cross more bridges over rivers, signaling your approach to the Vatnajökull ice cap, one of Iceland’s three national parks. The ice cap’s immense, tentacle-like glaciers extend from the main ice sheet, with some reaching the outer edges of Ring Road, dramatically reshaping the landscape around them.

Skaftafell Preserve - An excellent starting point for exploring is the Skaftafell Preserve. This area features Svínafellsjökull, an outlet glacier that can be walked to year-round. The preserve is also home to two iconic waterfalls: Hundafoss and the well-known Svartifoss, whose black hexagonal basalt columns behind the water have inspired many architectural designs.

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon - Another tongue, Breiðamerkurjökull, is slowly retreating, expanding the size of the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, a must-see place in Iceland. The vivid blue water, dotted with floating white icebergs, creates an awe-inspiring and surreal scene. Kayaking tours are available, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with this natural wonder.

Black sand beach with crystal ice - Most icebergs eventually drift into the ocean next to the lagoon. Some, however, wash up on Diamond Beach, where they gradually erode from ocean water and heat, resting on black sand. Before they melt away, visitors can admire their striking colors of white, blue, and other dark hues. Sometimes, seals and other wildlife can be witnesses visiting the area.

Leaving the south behind, the East Fjords of Iceland will challenge drivers with more twists and turns but extend a front seat to stunning views in return. The drive itself is the highlight of this section, with hills on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. 

Settlements in Eastfjords
As Route 1 enters inland, it passes through the region’s capital, Egilsstaðir—the largest city in East Iceland. The town sits on the banks of Lagarfljót, a river shrouded in mystery, with a supposed monster living beneath the water. Despite its remote feel, the shoreline is sprinkled with charming Icelandic fishing villages like the cultural hub of Seydisfjordur at the bottom of a fjord. You can walk the colorful Rainbow Road or grab a bite to eat at one of the many food spots.

Wildlife in East Fjords
The east is the only location where you can see reindeer in Iceland, an imported species of deer that have lived here since the 18th century. In the summer, they stay in higher elevations, like Snæfell mountain, but herds roam the rural landscapes in winter. The region also houses migratory birds and colorful puffins, particularly around fjords like Borgarfjordur Eystri. Seals are often found near river mouths, while breaching whales can occasionally be spotted offshore, though such sightings are not guaranteed.

While the roads are well-maintained, Route 1 in North Iceland can experience road closures, particularly in winter when snowfall is heavier. It's also the location of Iceland’s only toll, at Vaðlaheiðargöng.

Dettifoss detour
Most sights in North Iceland are located off the main road and are accessible via gravel routes. The first of these landmarks is Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss, on Road 864. Here, the water plunges 44 meters (144 feet) with a width of about 100 m (330 feet). Further along the road, you'll find other waterfalls like Réttarfoss and Hólmárfossar, as well as the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon, whose towering walls reach 100 m (330 feet) high.

Mývatn Lake and Godafoss Waterfall
The circle roadway then goes around the picturesque volcanic lake Mývatn, a popular birdwatcher destination, as many species nest here during the summer. Formed by a volcanic eruption, you can hike through a landscape of lava fields blanketed in moss, towering basalt pillars, and ancient craters. Above the lake on a hill is a hot spring with natural baths, perfect for bathing. 

Just after the lake, you’ll find Godafoss Waterfall— a hard-to-miss spot right next to the Ring Road. A stop here is a must, as the waterfall cascades in a horseshoe shape, creating a divine sight—hence its nickname, "Waterfall of the Gods."

Whale watching in the north
This region is known as one of the best places for whale watching in Iceland. Húsavík, on Road 85, is hailed as the capital of whales. If you continue along the Ring Road, you’ll reach Akureyri in the North, the region's capital and another excellent spot to embark on a whale-watching tour. Further along Route 82 is Dalvík, a fishing village serving as a whale-watching launch point. If you continue on Road 82 and then jump onto 72, you’ll drive past the vibrant Siglufjordur retreat on the shore overlooking the blue horizons of the Arctic Ocean.

West Iceland makes up the final stretch of the Ring Road. The hilly, winding roads give way to smoother paths through landscapes filled with lava fields, craters, and waterfalls. Instead of coastal towns, drivers will come across inland villages. This journey section is also one of the most customizable, with several possible detours.

Westfjords
The first detour comes near Borðeyri with Route 68, which takes you into Westfjords. This road, along with extensions 61, 60, 63, and 62, weaves through the fjords, reminiscent of Eastfjords. Best to focus on the road and instead stop at the largest town of Ísafjörður, where the views consist of mountain slopes and blue ocean water.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Remember the waterfalls, mountains, and fishing villages of previous regions? By taking Route 60, then 54, or just Route 54 near Borgarnes, you'll enter the Snæfellsnes Peninsula—a mini Iceland experience. The paved road takes you through the quiet settlement of Grundarfjörður, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to stop and snap some photos of Kirkjufell mountain, known for its distinctive arrowhead shape. Further along the road, at the tip of the peninsula, is Snæfellsjökull National Park, home to the famous glacier of the same name.

Silver Circle
Finally, there is the Silver Circle in Iceland, which is explorable via Route 50. The closest to the road is Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Further down the road, you’ll find the historical Reykholt village, the previous home of 13th-century Icelandic writer Snorri Sturluson. If you take Roadway 518, you’ll stumble upon the dual Barnafoss and Hraunfossar waterfalls right by each other.

The loop is open all year round, with Icelandic Ring Road tours operating every month. Summer is the best time to visit Iceland, as the route is safer for self-driving adventurers. While rain is common throughout the country, longer daylight hours, along with the Midnight Sun, brighten the skies, creating perfect conditions for evening drives. The temperatures are also milder, averaging 10–13°C (50–55°F), making slippery roads less frequent.

In contrast, the Ring Road in winter sees temperatures dropping to as low as -2°C (28°F). Icelandic road conditions worsen as more ice is present, requiring travelers to drive slower than usual. Snowfall picks up speed, and wind is faster, especially in northern parts facing the Arctic. However, the trade-off is that it’s the Northern Lights season. Since the circle goes through remote areas, travelers have a higher chance of seeing the dancing lights in the dark Icelandic sky. Although their appearance relies heavily on Aurora activity and weather forecasts.

Travelers can adjust their Icelandic Ring Road itinerary based on their interests, prioritizing certain sights over others. However, attempting to complete the journey in just 2 or 3 days isn't ideal, as it requires long hours of driving and leaves little time to appreciate the attractions fully. A trip lasting between 5 to 10 days offers a more balanced experience, with a 7-day Iceland road trip serving as the ideal middle ground for exploration and a comfortable pace.

A 7-day complete trip around Iceland is enough time to explore the major sites, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, Eastfjords, and North Iceland. Additionally, you can take a detour to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and set aside a day to explore Reykjavík on foot, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and history. Here is the best Ring Road itinerary for a week-long, self-guided adventure:

Day 1–2: On the first day, you'll explore the Golden Circle’s main attractions before settling in for the night in Selfoss, the gateway to the South Coast. On the second day, you’ll travel along the South Coast, visiting breathtaking waterfalls and the black sand beaches of Vik. The day ends with an overnight stay at Geirland Hotel in Kirkjubæjarklaustur village, conveniently located near the twisty bends of Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon.

Day 3–4: On day three, head northeast to Vatnajökull National Park, stopping at Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón before staying at Höfn Hotel. The next day, travel through the scenic Eastfjords, passing charming fishing villages and winding coastal roads, before ending the day at the Wilderness Center near Egilsstaðir.

Day 5–6: Refreshed and eager, you'll depart from the East Fjords and venture into the untamed landscapes of the North. Explore the region's most remarkable sights before settling in for the night in Akureyri, a city brimming with culture. On the sixth day, your route takes a scenic detour to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where you'll stay overnight at Hotel Hellissandur.

Day 7: Your final day is all about discovering Reykjavík. Stroll through the city's streets, admire its blend of historic and modern architecture, and savor authentic Icelandic cuisine. If time allows, unwind at the Blue Lagoon before catching your flight.

Travel Time: Expect to drive up to 6 hours in the North, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and Eastfjords, and around 4 hours in the South Coast, Golden Circle, and Vatnajokull region.

Special Tips: Fill up on gas before leaving towns, especially in Eastfjords and the North Coast, where stations are less common.

With more flexibility comes more opportunities for exploration. During a 10-day self-drive road trip around Iceland, you'll focus on one region at a time, sometimes staying a few nights in one location. This extra space in the schedule allows you to take scenic detours or enjoy longer hikes. Here’s a plan for over a week of incredible adventures:

Day 1–2: Start the day by heading east to explore the three key attractions of the Golden Circle, then spend the night near one of the landmarks or in the Hvolsvollur region. As a new sun rises, continue your journey along the South Coast, where you can hike the Sólheimajökull glacier outlet and visit stunning waterfalls. End your day with a relaxing stay at Geirland Hotel.

Day 3–4: Your third day begins with a visit to the snaking Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, followed by the icy beauty of Vatnajökull National Park, including Skaftafell Reserve and Jökulsárlón Lagoon. After a restful night in Höfn Village, you'll make your way to the Eastfjords, where you'll spend the night in the cozy accommodations of Wilderness Center.

Day 5–6: On day five, you'll wrap up your exploration of the Eastfjords with a visit to Hafnarhólmi Cape, Dyrfjöll Mountain, and the Stórurð site before spending the night in the Borgarfjörður Eystri area. The following day, head north to marvel at the mighty Dettifoss waterfall, explore the Myvatn area, visit Godafoss, and end your day in Akureyri.

Day 7–8: The seventh day sees the end of northern adventures, with a drive by the Arctic Ocean and stops at Dalvík and Hvítserkur, with Vatnsnes town being the last stop. On day eight, drive to Grabrok crater before heading toward Snaefellsnes, seeing Stykkisholmur, Kirkjufell, and Djúpalónssandur, and ending in Borgarnes.

Day 9–10: The final stretch of the Ring Road takes you to the Gerduberg Cliff and the Silver Circle before returning to Reykjavik in the evening, just in time for dinner. The next day is yours to enjoy: relax in a hot spring, explore the city, or get ready for your journey home.

Travel Time: Expect to drive for 2 to 3 hours every day—4 at most. Distances vary, with the longest routes being in the Eastfjord, North, and South Coast parts of the trip.

Special Tips: The extra wiggle room means you can book whale-watching tours or soak in hot springs you’ll drive by without worrying about time.

Your 5-day road trip of Iceland will focus solely on the main highlights—no detours or extra activities. However, with careful planning of your stops and sights, you may not even notice the lack of time. Here's a quick day-by-day breakdown of the 5-day itinerary:

Day 1–2: Instead of starting with the Golden Circle, you'll begin your journey along the rich and diverse South Coast. Here, you'll visit the iconic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and walk along the striking black sand beach of Reynisfjara. As soon as the sun rises, head toward the Vatnajökull glacier, then end your day with a stay at the Höfn Hotel in Höfn village.

Day 3–4: Watch the sunset at Stokksnes Beach, just outside Höfn, before continuing your journey to the Eastfjords. There, you'll visit Hengifoss waterfall and explore the charming village of Seydisfjordur. After a restful night at the Wilderness Center, day four brings a quick drive through Northern Iceland. Take a short hike around Lake Mývatn and stop at Godafoss before ending your day with an overnight stay in Akureyri.

Day 5: On the final day, you'll drive directly from Akureyri to Reykjavik, making only brief stops for fuel and roadside landmarks. Depending on your timing, you can spend the rest of the day exploring Reykjavik, enjoying various activities, or heading to the airport for your flight home.

Travel time: Expect to drive 5 to 6 hours daily and cover several hundred kilometers between accommodations.

Special tips: Don’t speed on the roadway, especially in winter, and book your accommodations before arriving in Iceland.

Traveling on roads in Iceland can be challenging year-round, even on paved routes. To help avoid any potential issues, here are a few essential Ring Road travel tips for adventurers:

• Speed limits: When driving in Iceland on the Ring Road, the maximum speed limit on paved roads is 90 km/h (56 mph). On gravel roads, the limit drops to 80 km/h (50 mph), and in urban areas, it’s 50 km/h (31 mph). Be mindful of road signs, as some areas may have additional speed restrictions.
  
  
• Iceland road trip budget: The cost for a solo traveler planning a 7 to 10-day trip starts at around 152,650 ISK (1,057 € / 1,145 $), but it can rise significantly, reaching up to 420,500 ISK (2,912 € / 3,155 $). The budget can vary depending on accommodations, car rental, tours, meals, and activities. It’s a good idea to check prices in Iceland as you plan your trip to get a clearer picture of expenses.
  
  
• Fuel stations: Gas stations are scattered along the Ring Road, typically found in towns and near major landmarks like Lake Mývatn or Vatnajökull glacier. However, it’s always a good idea to fill up whenever you have the chance.
  
  
• Ring Road safety: Although the route is open year-round, Icelandic weather conditions can make roads more challenging. Always check the Iceland road conditions map and the Icelandic Meteorological Office. You may encounter wildlife in rural areas, such as reindeer in the Eastfjords. Be prepared to slow down or stop, as herds might cross your path. While traffic jams are uncommon, expect heavier traffic around popular attractions like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Reykjavik.
  
  
• F-road restrictions: Gravel F-roads leading to the Highlands are only open during the summer and are accessible only to 4x4 vehicles. They are closed in winter, as snowfall makes them too dangerous to drive.
  
  
• Iceland driving side: Like most European countries, Iceland follows the right-side driving rules.
  
  
• Car rentals: When choosing an Icelandic rental car, consider the climate and terrain you’ll explore. While 2WDs are okay in summer on paved roads, you’ll want a 4X4 if you decide to travel during winter or shoulder months and/or to visit the Highlands.
  
  
• Winter driving: If you plan on driving in Iceland in winter, adding a couple of extra days to your itinerary to account for potential bad weather is beneficial. Snow and ice can make driving tricky, so knowing how to handle slippery surfaces is necessary. A 4WD vehicle is essential as it offers better traction on icy roads. If you get lost, injured, or come across someone needing immediate help, call the national emergency number at 112.

Even though you’ll travel by vehicle, packing only the essentials will save you time and money. Regarding what to pack for Iceland, bring base and mid-layers to protect against the elements, along with a comfortable, weatherproof jacket. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, a scarf, well-broken-in hiking shoes, and comfortable footwear for inside the vehicle. Depending on how long you’ll be driving the Icelandic Ring Road, pack extra underwear and socks to last the trip. For 7 to 10 days, 7 to 10 pairs of each should be plenty.

Besides clothing, Ring Road essentials include navigational tools, such as a phone, GPS, a map of Iceland, and portable chargers. Include the following items in your Iceland road trip packing list:

• Food: Snacks, dried fruit, and something you can eat between stops.
• Camping Gear: Travel kettle, tent, bedroll (if you plan to camp).
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, toilet paper.
• Other: Dry bag, first aid kit, sunscreen, sunglasses, hand and foot warmers, flashlight, travel mug.

Just like the famous Golden Circle, the Ring Road in Iceland is a must-see for any traveler. It’s important to follow responsible tourism practices in Iceland: enjoy the scenery, but leave no trace behind, not even a piece of plastic. Avoid driving off-road and always respect nature. Also, even with the best-laid plans, a road trip in Iceland can come with unexpected challenges—that’s part of the journey. While carefully planning to explore Iceland is key, ensure your Ring Road adventure is flexible and open to spontaneous discoveries!