8 Day Iceland Ring Road Tour

Building your own exciting itinerary in the City of Reykjavík is easy!

Walking Laugavegur and Skólavorðustígur shopping streets is a great way to capture the essence of Reykjavík. Browse in shops for unusual items, relax in a charming café, then wander some more. 

You will come across local crafts and the iconic tall white Hallgrímskirkja church. Its design is inspired by the Svartifoss waterfall at Skaftafell. Go to the top of the tower for a grandstand view of the city. It is well worth it!

There are a few fabulous museums, covering everything from history and the building of the Icelandic nation at the National Museum to photography at the Reyjavík Museum of Photography or Icelandic culture at the Culture House. If you love art, there are quite a few galleries, including the National Gallery of Iceland, Reykjavík Art Museum, and Kjarvalstaðir.    

Rekjavík’s thermal swimming pools are open early and into the evening. The largest open-air pool, Laugardalslaug, has excellent hot tubs where you can relax with the locals and tourists. All year round, outdoor bathing is huge in Iceland!

Your accommodation will be in Reykjavik within easy reach of the attractions in the city. A regular bus service serves all districts to the city center. Strætó operates local buses. Timetables and information in English can be found here.

More ideas for making the most of a short time in Reykjavík, including money-saving tips, can be found in the article Top Things to Do in Reykjavik in 2 Days.

Please check out our Reykjavik City Walking tour if you want a guided tour around the city.

Your first day starts with a pick-up in Reykjavík at 8:00 AM. Today, we'll focus on visiting the fabulous and famous Golden Circle attractions, beginning with Þingvellir National Park.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds immense geological, historical, and cultural significance. The historic Icelandic Parliament, called the Alþing, was founded here in 930 AD. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates continue to move apart, runs right through Þingvellir. You will see the rugged plate edge of the gorge.

Your next stop is at the Geysir geothermally active area, home to Great Geysir. This famous spouting hot spring gave us the English word 'geyser.' You will witness Strokkur, the most active hot spring in recent times, blasting powerful torrents of superheated water every 5 to 10 minutes. Steaming fumaroles and hot springs can also be seen around the area. 

Before we continue along the South Coast, we’ll stop at the last Golden Circle highlight—Gullfoss waterfall, or the "Golden Falls." You’ll see golden mists swirling as the powerful Hvítá River plunges down two drops of 36 feet (11 meters) and 69 feet (21 meters). Hvítá, meaning "White River," is a glacial torrent that begins at Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier.

On our way to your country hotel, we’ll stop at two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Both stand around 197 feet (60 meters) tall but are strikingly different. Skógafoss flows gracefully from ancient sea cliffs, while Seljalandsfoss has a pathway that lets you walk behind the cascading water for a unique perspective.

Next, we’ll visit Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach. A short stroll along the shore brings you to an impressive basalt-column cave, and just offshore, you’ll see the towering, troll-like Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the waves.

After settling into the country hotel in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, if conditions are good, you can slip away for a couple of hours to chase the Northern Lights (from September to April).

We journey through surreal landscapes to reach Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park. Along the way, you'll catch glimpses of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, home to the infamous Katla volcano, and the mighty Eyjafjallajökull. Crossing the vast Eldhraun lava field, we arrive at Skaftafell, a green oasis surrounded by black volcanic sands. Its sheltered location allows lush vegetation and birch forests to thrive.

If you’ve chosen the Adventure Package, our expert glacier guide will lead you on a thrilling hike across one of the outlets of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. You’ll explore the striking blue and white ice formations up close. 

From October to April, this adventure transforms into a magical journey through the glacier's crystal ice caves, where new ones form each winter. It’s a truly otherworldly experience, with a unique look at the glacier from within!

Next, we head to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where towering icebergs drift through the shimmering waters. Made famous by James Bond and other films, this is the most iconic ice lagoon in the world. After soaking in the lagoon’s beauty, we’ll visit the stunning Diamond Beach, where blue and white icebergs, washed ashore by the tide, glisten against the coal-black sand. It feels like stepping into a magical world of ice and surreal landscapes.

From September to April, if conditions are right, we’ll be on the lookout for the Northern Lights at night. Your accommodation will be in the Southeast, and if the skies are clear, ask your guide for tips on the best places to spot the aurora.

Today, we journey through the stunning Eastfjords, traveling along narrow roads that wind between towering mountains and the ocean. We’ll pass through the remote Hvalnes Peninsula and witness the dramatic landscapes of landslides, and the picturesque fjords.

Our next stop is Djúpivogur, a charming fishing village known for its eco-friendly and welcoming community. Here, you’ll see the famous outdoor sculpture Eggin í Gleðivík, a series of large stone eggs symbolizing local bird species.

On our way to the last destination of the day, we’ll stop in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, set along the Lagarfljót River.

Afterward, we head to the Wilderness Center, an interactive historical site on the edge of Iceland’s large adn uninhabited highlands. The center is built around old farmhouses, carefully restored to reflect the way people lived here centuries ago.

Admission to the museum’s exhibitions is included, offering fascinating exhibits on highland living. You’ll stay in historic buildings, savor locally sourced meals, and unwind in the traditional bathing house’s warm pool.

We’ll spend the night in our rustic accommodations at the Wilderness Center, and if conditions are right from September to April, ask your guide for tips to go out in search of the Northern Lights!

Today, we’ll explore some of the most incredible sights in North Iceland. First up is Stuðlagil Canyon, one of the most spectacular basalt column formations in the world. These towering pillars, carved by the Jökla River, rise above vibrant blue-green waters—a sight that’s truly unforgettable.

Next, we’ll head to Námaskarð geothermal area, where you’ll step into a steaming, bubbling landscape that feels almost otherworldly. With its colorful mud pots and fumaroles sending clouds of steam across the bright, mineral-rich soil, it’s a view unlike anything else.

We’ll continue our journey around Lake Mývatn, a place shaped by volcanic forces and teeming with birdlife. The lake is scattered with over 50 small islands, all created by volcanic activity.

As an optional extra, you can visit the Mývatn Nature Baths, often called the "Blue Lagoon of the North." These geothermal pools are filled with mineral-rich water from 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) below the surface. You can also enjoy a swim-up bar and steam baths - it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the warmth coming straight from the earth’s core.

Afterward, we’ll visit Dimmuborgir, home to eerie, lava formations that look like they belong in a fantasy novel. Known as the "Dark Castles," these towering natural sculptures create an atmosphere full of mystery.

Then, it's on to Goðafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods." Spanning 98 feet (30 meters) in a horseshoe shape, this stunning waterfall is steeped in history, tied to Iceland’s shift to Christianity when idols were cast into its powerful waters.

We’ll finish our day in Akureyri, where you’ll settle in for the night. If the skies are clear, your guide will help you chase the Northern Lights during the winter months.

* Please note that in winter, road conditions might limit access to Stuðlagil Canyon. If that happens– we’ll have other exciting activities lined up for you. Your safety and enjoyment always come first. Thank you for your understanding!

Our day begins with a scenic drive through charming towns nestled between mountains along the mesmerizing Eyjafjörður Fjord, Iceland’s longest fjord. We’re heading to Dalvík, a picturesque fishing town with a busy harbor and stunning views over Eyjafjörður and Hrísey Island. The high mountains behind us are home to some of the best ski slopes in the country.

From Dalvík’s harbor, you'll embark on an exctitng whale-watching boat tour, part of the Adventure Package. This experience boasts a 98% success rate in spotting whales, including humpbacks, white-beaked dolphins, and minke whales. Eyjafjörður’s striking natural beauty will be all around as we search for these magnificent creatures.

Next, we journey to the historic fishing village of Siglufjörður, famous for its herring boom in the early 20th century, which transformed the town into the herring capital of the North Atlantic. You’ll get a real feel for how life used to be in these remote coastal communities.

Continuing around Tröllaskagi (the Troll Peninsula), you’ll witness dramatic coastal scenery and towering mountains. Before reaching our accommodation, we’ll make a few stops to explore the picturesque Skagafjörður, a fjord dotted with islands and full of secrets.

We then pass through the agricultural heart of Iceland, known for its farms, as we make our way to Laugarbakki, where we’ll spend the night. If the conditions are right, your guide will help you chase the Northern Lights (from September to April).

On the final day of your adventure, we'll explore the remarkable sights of West Iceland. Our first stop is at Grábrók, an impressive volcanic crater surrounded by rugged, lunar-like lava fields. We will take a short hike to the top and get rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

At Reykholt, you'll step into one of Iceland’s most significant historical sites. This was once the home of Snorri Sturluson, a renowned saga writer, historian, and chieftain from the 13th century. As we explore, you’ll see Snorralaug, the ancient geothermal pool where Snorri is believed to have bathed. 

Next, we’ll head to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Here, an incredible 50 gallons (180 liters) of boiling water per second gush from the earth at around 97°C (200°F). This natural powerhouse provides geothermal heating for nearby towns, and seeing it in action is an impressive reminder of Iceland’s volcanic energy.

We’ll then move on to witness the unique Hraunfossar waterfalls. Here, countless streams of water flow straight out of the lava field, creating a wide, mesmerizing cascade. Just a short walk away is Barnafoss, or "Children’s Falls," a waterfall with a tragic folklore tale behind its name.

Our journey continues to Sturlureykir horse farm, where you'll have the chance to meet the friendly Icelandic horses and learn about their role in Icelandic history and culture.

Finally, we’ll make our way back to Reykjavík, traveling via the scenic Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord), and expect to arrive in the city around 5 – 6 pm, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.

You have another full day to soak in the beauty of Reykjavík, Iceland's vibrant capital. There’s still plenty to explore and discover! Wander along the scenic coastal paths that crisscross the city, offering stunning views from areas like Seltjarnarnes and Mosfellsbær, both easily accessible by bus. You could also visit Grasagarðurinn, the Reykjavík Botanical Gardens, next to Laugardalslaug, Iceland’s largest swimming pool.

Whether you choose to shop, relax in a cozy café, explore more museums and galleries, or book a last-minute adventure tour, the day is yours to enjoy!

• On the second day, pick-up is at 08:00 am from your hotel or a nearby meeting point in Reykjavík. Picking everyone up can take up to 30 minutes. Your patience is much appreciated. Available pick-up points: Arctic Adventures’s pick-up list.
  
  
• On the seventh day of the tour, we’ll drop you off in Reykjavik at your accommodation in the evening.

• Myvatn Nature Baths are not included in any package and must be paid for separately as an optional extra.
  
  
• Solo travelers have to choose the single room supplement if they want a private room. Otherwise, they might be accommodated with another solo traveler of the same gender.
  
  
• Sometimes, due to weather conditions, we may need to change the glaciers or glacier outlets on this tour. Glacier outlets might include Svínafellsjökull, Falljökull, and Sólheimajökull, all equally as beautiful.
  
  
• We replace the glacier hike from October to April with a journey through the Crystal Ice Cave.
  
  
• Hotels can change during your trip.
  
  
• During the booking process, you can rent sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, and pants. Please note that these items must be ordered in advance, as they are not available for rent on-site.

We cannot guarantee that the actual view during your visit will match the photographs since ice caves are a natural phenomenon that undergoes constant change. How they look may vary depending on the season, time of day, lighting, and other factors.