10-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of Iceland with Accommodation

This package is ideal for morning arrivals. After you pick up your rental car at the airport, you’ll head inland, driving through the capital city, Reykjavík.

The Golden Circle Route

Your epic journey will start with the most epic touring route in Iceland: the Golden Circle. This is a day tour that navigates along the most scenic sites that can be found near Reykjavík.

Thingvellir National Park

Your first stop will be at the nation’s heart, also known as Thingvellir National Park. This is a UNESCO site and the world’s oldest parliament was established here in 930 AD. The park now has turned into a serene land where, in still weather, Lake Thingvallavatn becomes a blue mirror doubling the surroundings, creating a surreal world.

The nearby Silfra fissure is a unique point between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. You can sign up for a snorkeling adventure in the clear water and literally touch the borders between continents.

Geysir Geothermal Field

Moving on to the renowned Geysir Geothermal Field, you’ll see the unpredictable Geysir and its dynamic neighbor, Strokkur. Strokkur shoots out water up to 20 m (65 ft) high every 6-10 minutes. Geysir has been less active in recent years, but when it erupts, it can reach up to 70 m (229 ft). The area is filled with bubbling hot springs, steaming mud pods, and smoking fumaroles. It is quite a spectacle to see for yourself. 

Gullfoss Waterfall

Next, you’ll see the powerful Gullfoss waterfall. The voluminous Hvita river flows with a huge rumbling sound as it rushes into the misty gorge. The overwhelming energy of the water is awe-inspiring. Downstream, Hvita is completely different from the turbulent waterfall. It becomes a calm blue waterway where you can take a jetboat ride to continue sightseeing in the area.

Faxi Waterfall

Before you finish your day, you can stop at Faxi waterfall along the way. It doesn’t have as big of a drop as Gullfoss but the cascade is wide and very pretty, making a great photo opportunity.For the night, you’ll either stay in the Golden Circle area or the Hvolsvöllur area.

After a nice breakfast, you’ll resume your journey to the picturesque South Coast. During this section of the Ring Road, you’ll pass through the dramatic landscapes.

Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrabui Waterfalls

Soon you’ll reach your first stop: Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland since you can walk behind the waterfall to see the whole area from the opposite angle, which is quite amazing. The waterfall is 63 m (206 ft) high and the water originates from the notorious volcano-glacier, Eyjafjallajokull.

Only a 5-minute walk away from Seljalandsfoss, you’ll find a secret waterfall hidden behind the cliffs. Its name is Gljufrabui. It’s a good idea to put on your waterproof jacket, pants, and boots before entering the small canyon and seeing this waterfall, though.

Skogafoss Waterfall

The next highlight along the coastline is a 25-minute drive down the road. Skogafoss waterfall is like nothing you have seen so far. It has an enormous cascade that plunges from 60 m (196 ft) overhead. As one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, Skogafoss is always accompanied by a rainbow on sunny days. Witnessing such a spectacular scene in the middle of beautiful landscapes is an experience not to be missed.

Glacier Hiking Tour 

Next, prepare for a spine-tingling glacier hiking tour. At 1:30 p.m., you’ll meet our expert glacier guide and head out to Solheimajokull Glacier for your adventure. This unforgettable experience will take you out on top of the cold tongue while a friendly glacier guide shares their knowledge of Icelandic glaciers.

Dyrholaey, Reynisfjara, and Vík

Then, you’ll drive to the picturesque seafront town of Vik. On your way, you can stop by Dyrholaey, a promontory rising 120 m (393 ft) above the sea. The area is a paradise for seabirds, including the cute puffins. There’s a white lighthouse on top.

From there, the amazing scenery of the South Coast will spread out before you in a spectacular panorama. You’ll see the silver glaciers, the different shades of mountains, the charming black sand beaches, and the stunning sea stacks.

Then, you’ll head to Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach with basalt columns and picturesque sea stacks. Your accommodation will be in either Vik or the Kirkjubaejarklaustur area.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Leaving the southernmost tip of Iceland, you’ll head east along the Ring Road to visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, which is the crown jewel of natural attractions in the country. On your way, you’ll see glaciers rising to more than 1000 m (3280 ft) above sea level. On your right-hand side, you’ll see the lowlands stretching to the sea.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon will be your first stop of the day. This is an insanely picturesque canyon that is (1.24 mi) long and 100 m (328 ft) deep. The whole area looks like it comes straight out of a fairytale. It is not surprising that Justin Bieber used this location in one of his famous music videos (for the song “I’ll Show You”).

Skaftafell and Svartifoss Waterfall

From there, you’ll head to Skaftafell, which is part of Vatnajökull National Park, the largest national park in Europe. Skaftafell is where you can start a journey to hike on a glacier or, in the winter, visit an enchanting crystal ice cave. You can also choose to take a hike to visit Svartifoss, a 20 m (65 ft) tall waterfall that drops from basalt columns in geometrical patterns. It’s only a 40-minute walk each way to reach the waterfall and its surroundings are completely breathtaking.

The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the Diamond Beach

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is about a 46-minute drive from the Skaftafell Visitor Center. The drive takes you through exotic lava fields on both sides of the Ring Road. These alien landscapes were formed by volcanic activity and glacial movements. As you drive past Breidamerkurjökull glacier tongue, you’ll see huge icebergs floating on cerulean water. This is a sign that you are approaching the Jokulsarlon parking lot.

Fed by glacial meltwater from Breidamerkurjökull, Jökulsárlón is now the deepest lake in Iceland. Its deepest point reaches down to 248 m (813 ft). In summer, there are boat tours that take visitors closer to the icebergs. If you are lucky, you’ll see seals swimming and enjoying their day in the lake.

Next to the lagoon is the black sand beach that we call the Diamond Beach. The name is a vivid depiction of the melting icebergs that are washed up onshore. In their stunning glamor, they continue to amaze people with their charming shades of blue. There are glacier tours to Vatnajokull that depart from the lagoon’s parking lot as well.

Höfn Village

After a complete visit to the lagoon area, you’ll drive to Skaftafell or the Hofn area for your accommodation. A flourishing harbor town, Hofn is a nice stop if you are looking for recreational spots, cozy restaurants, grocery stores, and thermal swimming pools. A lobster festival is hosted every year in Hofn, which attracts a lot of visitors for the local gourmet food.

The Eastfjords

The road to the Eastfjords is extraordinarily scenic as you will start to move into the unique fjord scenery that was carved by glaciers many centuries ago. This will be one of the most exciting moments during your Icelandic road trip. You’ll soon reach the spectacular mountain of Vestrahorn. Its jagged appearance stands out against the beach and the mossy bumps in the nearby fields. If you are an avid photographer, this is the moment you have been waiting for to capture the splendor of Iceland’s natural beauty.

Djupivogur Village 

Next up is a nice fishing village named Djupivogur. The vibrant town, located between mountains and lagoons, is a perfect bird-watching base for nature lovers. A colony of seals is often spotted in the area. 

Petra’s Stone and Mineral Collection 

Stöðvarfjörður is a town rich in Icelandic cultural heritage, even though there are only 200 inhabitants. One popular site is Petra’s Stone and Mineral Collection. You’ll see a range of Icelandic stones in different shapes, colors, and textures while learning much about Iceland’s geography. The on-site café serves tasty dishes, like soups, drinks, and even sweets. 

Saxa Sea Geysir 

Saxa is a unique natural formation, akin to the shooting waters of Strokkur on the Golden Circle. As the waves of the Atlantic crash into the shore, wood, seaweed, and water get into the crevices of the formation. As pressure builds up, the ground-up content is ejected in an explosive display of power. 

Lagarfljót Lake 

The Ring Road will lead you to a long lake called Lagarfljot. According to legend, a giant serpent lives in this lake, and sightings have been reported for centuries. Some people have even caught this serpent on video, and you can look it up on YouTube! 

Borgarfjörður 

When you reach the town of Egilsstadir, the capital of East Iceland, you’ll leave the Ring Road behind for a detour to the most beautiful fjord in the Eastfjords area: Borgarfjordur. You’ll drive along empty roads, even in the busiest part of tourist season. This area is so remote that you won’t meet many tourists along the way. After a scenic drive, your final stop of the day will be at Borgarfjörður Eystri, a fjord-side village known as a natural paradise in the east. 

The town has a population of only about 100 inhabitants. Located in a long and fertile valley surrounded by incredibly sharp and dramatic mountains, Borgarfjörður Eystri is often referred to as one of the most beautiful locations in Iceland. 

Your accommodation for the night will be in this area. 

Hafnarhólmi Cape

Start your day by exploring Hafnarhólmi Cape, one of Iceland’s most unique bird-watching sites. A busy, adorable puffin colony lives on a tiny headland by the harbor. You can reach it via a small bridge. These silly-looking birds are abundant here and can be observed from very close up. These silly looking birds are not afraid of humans at all!

The Dyrfjöll Mountain Range

Today, you can go hiking in the Dyrfjöll mountains. The natural scenery around Borgarfjordur Eystri is matchless, making it no wonder that this place is a favored holiday destination for Icelanders. The Dyrfjöll mountain range is one of the most impressive mountain ranges in all of Iceland. It’s famously wild and beautiful from all four directions.

Stórurð

The hike to the most illustrious spot in the area takes you to Stórurð (the “giant boulders”). This interesting natural attraction consists of gigantic tuff boulders, charming meadows, and attractive turquoise-colored ponds. The hike starts higher from the road on the mountain pass over the village. There are plenty of other scenic hiking options to choose from. Wherever you go, you are very likely to encounter some reindeer along the way!

After the day, you’ll find your accommodation in the area of Borgarfjörður Eystri.

Driving from East Iceland northwards, you’ll traverse the wilderness that the reindeer call home. If you are lucky, you’ll even spot a herd of reindeer, Arctic foxes, and Icelandic horses along the way. 

Diamond Circle 

A strong contender to the famed Golden Circle, the Diamond Circle showcases some of northern Iceland’s most iconic attractions. Majestic waterfalls, serene lakes, and unique rock formations make today’s itinerary a visual feast. Between each stop, you'll journey through sweeping landscapes of untamed wilderness and ever-changing terrain. 

Rjúkandi Waterfall 

As you enter northern Iceland, the gentle cascade of Rjúkandi waterfall greets you from the Ring Road. Instead of a dramatic plunge, its waters flow gracefully down a two-tiered slope that is visible from the road. For a closer view, follow the path that runs alongside the stream to reach the base of the falls. 

Dettifoss Waterfall 

The magnificent Dettifoss waterfall is up next. As the most voluminous waterfall in Europe, the width of Dettifoss extends over 100 m (328 ft) with an overwhelming fall of 45 m (147 ft). The magnitude of the falling flow creates a tremendous and constant amount of spray floating over the canyon. This makes the falls very scenic, the perfect spot for filming a movie on a mythological subject. The 2012 film Prometheus took advantage of this area for that reason. 

After appreciating the sheer volume of water that flows over the cascades at Dettifoss, you’ll head to one of the most popular routes in Iceland, the Diamond Circle Route. This route consists of a group of unique landscapes and diverse attractions. 

Hverarond and the Namafjall Area 

The first stop will be in the Hverarond and Namafjall area. The area looks out of this world since it’s completely infertile and filled with a sulphuric smell. As the scattered cracks shoot steam out from under the earth, the bubbling mud pots will roll amidst dried clay next to you. 

The Myvatn Area 

Next, you’ll head to the Myvatn area. Myvatn Nature Baths is a northern alternative to the Blue Lagoon, with the advantage of being less crowded. You can choose to spend a relaxing time in the natural baths at an additional cost, or continue your journey to Myvatn. This huge lake is surrounded by tiny craters. Its name has a very interesting meaning in Icelandic, as it literally means “midge lake”. But laying eyes on this beautiful lake is the opposite of hearing the unpleasant sound of those pesky insects. The area is very picturesque. 

The Dimmuborgir Rocks 

After a complete visit to Myvatn Lake, you can drop by the Dimmuborgir rocks. This is an area full of weirdly shaped rock formations that subarctic vegetation calls home. 

Godafoss Waterfall 

The next stop, Godafoss, is a mind-blowing waterfall that has a look as mighty as its name. Its name means the “waterfall of the gods” in Icelandic. This beauty has an almost perfectly symmetrical layout as the cascades pour over the edge of the 12 m (39 ft) cliff over a width of 30 m (98 ft). It’s a popular landscape photography site, so you won’t be disappointed with your results.  

Akureyri city 

Finally, you’ll drive to Akureyri, the capital of the North. The city has a great vibe for nightlife and several attractions worth exploring. You’ll stay in either Akureyri or the Eyjafjörður area for the night. 

Waking up in the Akureyri area, you’ll feel refreshed as the vibrant city gives off a great mix of remoteness and hospitality. Many cultural and musical festivals are hosted here every year, so please check the city’s event calendar before coming! You can also spend some quality time in Akureyri visiting the botanical gardens and colorful streets.

Skagafjordur Fjord  

You’ll continue your road trip westwards westward as you drive along Skagafjordur. The biggest landmark in this area is the 700,000-year-old island of Drangey rising far above the ocean in an isolated pose. The edge of this volcano remnant is considerably deep and the cliffs are a paradise for seabirds. 

The Hvitserkur Sea Stack 

Next up is a visit to the impressive Hvitserkur sea stack. The natural monument has earned a few nicknames over the years since its shape resembles either a rhino or an elephant. Some even say it looks like a dragon from some angles. This remote sea stack is located off the eastern shore of Vatnsnes. 

Kolugljúfur Canyon 

The day concludes at Kolugljúfur Gorge, a stunning canyon that stretches 1 km (0.6 mi) in length and spans 60 m (197 ft) in width. Carved by the salmon-rich Víðidalsá River, its dramatic beauty is further enhanced by the Kolufossar Waterfall, which plunges into the gorge with foaming white water. According to local legend, the gorge was shaped by Kola, a giantess, whose name endures in both the ravine and the falls. 

Vatnsnes Town 

As you approach Vatnsnes, you’ll have completed many turns and curves on Route 1 in North Iceland during your scenic drive. You’ll stay in the Vatnsnes area for the night in a comfortable room that we have pre-booked for you. The town of Vatnsnes is quite beautiful. Once there, you can take a leisurely stroll to see seals or seabirds, especially in summer when you have longer periods of daylight hours. 

On Day 8, you’ll head to the west to visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This is the charming region of Iceland that we have nicknamed “Miniature Iceland.” The drive from the north to the west is never a boring one since you’ll pass by shallow shores, grassy fields, and rolling mountains.

Grabrok Crater

Grabrok crater is the first stop before you steer your vehicle towards the peninsula. The height of the crater’s edge can reach up to 170 m (557 ft) and the panoramic view from the top is simply fabulous.

Stykkisholmur

Then you’ll get off the Ring Road and drive towards the tip of Snaefellsnes. Stykkisholmur can be your first stop as this town is located on the north side of the peninsula. You’ll definitely find the tiny, colorful town quite charming. You can even try some dried fish there.

Kirkjufell Mountain

The highlight of the day is when you reach Kirkjufell. This is the most popular attraction in Snaefellsnes. Together, the 463 m (1519 ft) Kirkjufell mountain and the fabulous Kirkjufell waterfall are photographed by many artists as a most classic composition.

The Budir Church and the Londrangar Rock Pinnacles

As you drive further into the peninsula, you’ll be getting closer to the sublime ice-capped Snaefellsjokull glacier. In this protected area, known as Snaefellsnes National Park, you’ll find Iceland’s rare white – or even golden – beach with the black church of Budir sitting on it. Djupalonssandur and Dritvik cove and the Londrangar rock pinnacles are also worth seeing in this national park. The area is truly the best representation of the diverse landscapes of Iceland.

Continuing eastwards, you’ll reach Hellnar and Arnarstapi. Both locations are famous for their picturesque coastal views. You’ll see the white waves crashing into the bottom of the basalt cliffs along the coastline where several species of seabirds choose to nest.

You’ll stay on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula for the night in a comfortable room.

You’ll get back on the Ring Road on Day 9 as your journey takes you back towards the capital. But, before you reach Reykjavik later in the day, there is a lot for you to see and visit along Route 1.

Ytri Tunga 

The beach of Ytri Tunga is the first major stop of the day. Unlike the black sands of the South Coast, this stands out for the gold-colored sand that covers the surface. While seals are common here, they’re not guaranteed. If you see a person heading from east or west, ask them if they saw the sea dogs. 

Gerduberg Cliff

First, you’ll arrive at Gerduberg Cliff, a gigantic wall of huge basalt columns rising 14 m (46 ft) from the ground. The style is like nothing that you have already seen in Iceland. Its sheer size alone makes this cliff overwhelmingly impressive.

The Silver Circle Route

Next up, you’ll drive along the less busy but equally stunning Silver Circle Route. It resembles the Golden Circle Route as it also has beautiful waterfalls, geothermal fields, and cultural heritage.

Deildartunguhver Hot Spring

The most powerful hot spring in Europe, Deildartunguhver hot spring, is the first site you’ll stop at. It’s capable of producing 180 liters (50 gallons) of 97°C (200°F) water every second. The nearby towns’ household heating depends on this powerful supply of thermal energy.

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls

Next, you’ll visit two beautiful waterfalls that are very close to each other. Hraunfossar has countless streams that flow out of the lava fields in the middle of the vegetation. This is how the waterfall got its name, which translates as the “lava waterfall”. No matter if it’s summer or winter, Hraunfossar always has something unique to show visitors. A few minutes walk away, you’ll find Barnafoss waterfall forcefully cascading down into a small canyon. The entire area is fabulous, especially in autumn.

Akranes City

Continue driving towards the capital and you’ll pass Akranes, a scenic town that’s about a one-hour drive from Reykjavik. You’ll find an old lighthouse at the tip of the town, serving as a reminder of the old days when marine life was essential to Icelanders. Then you’ll drive past Hvalfjordur, choosing to go either through the tunnel or via Road 47 for more sightseeing, if time allows.

Finally, in the evening, you’ll reach Reykjavik for a nice dinner, if you want. You will check in to your accommodation that we have booked for you in the Capital Region.

This is the last day of your 10-day road trip via the Icelandic Ring Road as today, you’ll head to Keflavik International Airport for your departure. But before you board your flight, be sure to make the most of your remaining time in Iceland since you are going to drive through the Reykjanes Peninsula where the famous Blue Lagoon is located.

The Reykjanes Peninsula

If your flight schedule allows enough time, you can explore the region that contains the following highlights. The southern part of the peninsula has numerous attractions such as the port town of Grindavik, the magnificent view to be enjoyed from Hopsnes Peninsula, the Bridge Between Continents, and the Blue Lagoon.

The Blue Lagoon

After visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula, if you are not in a rush to catch your flight, we highly recommend a soak in the milky blue waters at the Blue Lagoon. Since the entry fee is not included in our package, it’s best to book your spot online in advance. You can relax in the warmth of the therapeutic water while you think about the 10-day adventure you have just had.

The 10-day self-drive tour – with Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula included – is an ideal road trip package in which you’ll see the best and most beautiful things that the land of fire and ice has to offer. For many self-planned road trips, going through several steps before you rent a car seems time-consuming.

In this package, all you need to do is to pick your ideal rental car since we take care of a huge portion of the planning and provide helpful information. We have carefully designed this 10-day itinerary for a slow-paced self-drive experience to make sure that it will be both amazing and unforgettable.

Your glacier hike on Sólheimajökull's outlet glacier is included in the specified price, but entry to the Blue Lagoon is not. You will need to book in advance on their website.

To offer the best price possible, this self-drive package is fixed and cannot be changed or altered. The package has been optimized for the best experience.

Your detailed itinerary includes:

√ Detailed map of Iceland with all stops

√ Easy-to-follow daily travel plans

√ Mobile-friendly design

√ Descriptions and photos for all major stops

√ Approximate time needed at each stop

√ Tips on the best nearby restaurants

√ Exclusive locations not included in the tour description

Information about your rental car

Pick-up: Choose between pick-up locations at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) or the Reykjavik City office in downtown Reykjavík. It is very centrally located and easy to reach on foot for those staying in downtown Reykjavik. Picking up from the downtown office is from 08:00-18:00.

For the best experience, we recommend that you pick up your car up early on your arrival day and return it in the afternoon or evening on your last day.

Drop-off: Pick-up and drop-off are in the same location (changes only available upon request).

Your self-drive package includes 9 nights in hotels and guesthouses with breakfast, and every room has a private bathroom. The itinerary names the hotel for most nights, or a similar one.

When booking for 2 or 4 persons, twin or double rooms will be provided. 

For bookings of 3 or 5 persons, a combination of double/twin rooms and triple rooms will be arranged. 

Additionally, a single room can also be arranged for an extra fee.

Included in your tour

Your rental car is a Toyota Aygo or similar (automatic, with winter tires from November to April), and it comes with this insurance:

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), with an excess (deductible) of 90,000 ISK ($735 / €657) for small cars and 120,000 ISK ($980 / €876) for SUVs
• Gravel Protection, covering the windshield, headlights, and paint, with an excess of 40,000 ISK ($327 / €292)
• Theft Protection, with no excess
• Third-Party Liability Insurance, covering damage or injury to others

The excess is the most you pay if the car is damaged in a covered incident.

Make it your own

You can upgrade your car and add extra protection in the next step of the booking, after you choose your date and number of travelers.

Rental car upgrades

• Standard: Kia Ceed or similar, automatic. More space for luggage and longer drives.
• Economy SUV 4x4: Suzuki Vitara 4x4 or similar, automatic. Higher clearance and four-wheel drive, recommended for winter driving from November to March.
• Large SUV 4x4: Kia Sorento 4x4 or similar, automatic, 7 seats. Maximum space and comfort.

Groups of 5 travel in a Kia Sorento 4x4 or similar as standard, so no upgrade is needed.

Insurance

• Sand and Ash Protection: Sandstorms are common, especially on the South Coast, and the damage can cost 500,000–1,500,000 ISK (4,085–12,255 / €3,650–€10,949). Without this protection, the full cost is your responsibility. Adding it lowers your excess for sand and ash damage to 90,000 ISK ($735 / €657).
• Zero Excess Insurance (recommended): Reduces your excess to zero for covered damage, including sand and ash, gravel, damage to the underside of the car, and wind damage to the doors. The most worry-free choice.

Roadside Assistance

Towing, help with flat tires, and key and lockout assistance, with no further charge once it’s added. Without it, a flat tire near Vík can cost around 45,000 ISK ($368 / €328) in service and travel fees. A smart add-on, especially in winter.

Good to know

No insurance covers damage caused by off-road driving, driving under the influence, negligence, or damage to the interior. Insurance must be added before your trip begins.

How pricing works

Prices for upgrades, insurance, and Roadside Assistance cover the whole tour and apply per booking. Car upgrades have seasonal rates: winter rates from October 1 to May 31, and summer rates from June 1 to September 30. Insurance and Roadside Assistance cost the same all year.