The Perfect Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

This is a guest post by Paulina.

A road trip along Iceland’s Ring Road is a true feast for the senses. From Secret Lagoon in Fludir, Gullfoss waterfall, and lava fields that surround Blue Lagoon, all of these places are perfect to explore by car.

We’ve explored every inch of Iceland from Reykjavík to Ásbyrgi Canyon, carefully curating a collection of the best experiences. With a travel plan ready starting in the Southern Peninsula, all you have to do is to jump in a car at the Keflavik airport and enjoy the unique landscape from Þingvellir National Park to Katla Geopark and more.

Here’s everything you can’t miss during two weeks of the Iceland Ring Road Itinerary:

Table of Contents

Day 1: Charge batteries at Blue Lagoon before starting Iceland Ring Road journey

Driving from Keflavik Airport to Blue Lagoon: 20 minutes (21.6 km)

Situated not far from Keflavik Airport, the world famous geothermal spa is the perfect stop after a long flight just before starting your Ring Road journey. Check in at the Retreat Hotel with the views of milky-blue lagoon and volcanic rocks. Then, try delicious food in Lava Restaurant and get a swimsuit on to explore the lagoon’s bar, small volcanic cave and incredible colour of water.

Visiting this man-made lagoon with temperatures between 37–39°C is one of the best things to do in Iceland. The water’s high silica content is what gives it a milky blue hue. The health benefits of swimming in those pools were firstly discovered in 1981. After studies confirmation the Blue Lagoon started to operate and currently attracts milions visitors every year.

Iceland has many hot springs, however the Blue Lagoon is a must see attraction despite being pricey. If you are planning to travel on budget, you can save on booking by choosing a nearby fishing town Grindavik to stay there overnight.

Day 2: Þingvellir National Park, Haukadalur Valley and Secret Lagoon

Þingvellir National Park

Driving from Blue Lagoon to Þingvellir National Park: 1 hour 10 minutes (88.1 km)

A road trip in Iceland cannot be complete without the highlights of the Golden Circle. Although it is possible to drive almost 300 kilometers in a few hours, two days of exploring this famous route will give you a much better travel experience.

Start your Golden Circle journey at Þingvellir National Park that is 1 hour 10 minutes drive from Blue Lagoon. It is the only place in the world where you can see two tectonic plates (North American and Eurasian). This spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site is also the filming location of the “Game of Thrones”. Specifically, Oxarafoss Waterfall was filmed in one of the best series of all time.

Haukadalur Valley

Driving from Þingvellir National Park to Hotel Geysir: 50 minutes (60.6 km)

Stay in Hotel Geysir if you love contemporary interiors with incredible views. It is less than 1 hour drive from Þingvellir National Park and 20 minutes drive from Fludir, where you can unwind in Secret Lagoon – one of Iceland’s oldest swimming pools.

Secret Lagoon

Driving from Hotel Geysir to Secret Lagoon: 22 minutes (25.9 km)

Secret Lagoon is much less busy than Blue Lagoon and significantly less expensive. Just make sure to bring your own towel or alternatively you can rent one. It is also worth mentioning that you should take a shower naked before entering geothermal pools in Iceland. Some people visiting Blue Lagoon don’t stick to these rules. However, Secret Lagoon has a common shower area where geothermal pool etiquette is very clear and everyone follows it.

Returning to Hotel Geysir: 22 minutes (25.9km)

Day 3: Strokkur Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, Kerid Crater and Hveragerdi

Strokkur Geysir

Walking from Hotel Geysir to Strokkur: 5 minutes (400 m)

Hotel Geysir is in the heart of the Geysir Hot Spring area so you will not even need your car to get there. Staying in this location increases your chances of seeing the most spectacular geyser eruptions. This natural phenomenon is truly a magical experience in Iceland which you can enjoy every 6-10 minutes.

Sometimes geysir eruptions can reach up to 40 metres. Therefore, if you want to capture the whole geysir with your camera go a bit further. Most of the tourists gather in a circle around the rope. However, standing so close to the geysir might be difficult to take even a vertical photo when an eruption is the most powerful.

Gulfoss Waterfall

Driving from Hotel Geysir to Gulfoss: 10 mintes (9.6 km)

There is nothing more exciting to see than Icelandic waterfalls. Just a 10-minute drive from Strokkur Geyser lies the enormous waterfall known as Gulfoss. It has the biggest watefall volume in Europe and it is often selected as one of the best waterfalls to visit in the world.

The best time to see it is in the early morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sunrise over the waterfall. This impressive waterfall consists of the smaller cascade of 11 meters tall and deeper of 21 meters tall. The deep canyon that surrounds Gulfoss has a height of 70 meters, making this location so spectacular.

Kerid Crater

Driving from Gulfoss to Kerid Crater: 45 minutes ( 56.2 km)

The bright azure colour of the water in the crater lake and colourful rocks surrounding it make a picture perfect location. In winter, Kerid is covered in white fluff with a much smaller number of visitors.

You can follow a path all the way around the crater which is 170 metres wide. Then, you can descend to the crystal clear waters of the crater lake. There is a small entrance fee of 450 KR (3.29 USD) to visit Kerid to preserve this beautiful area.

Hveragerdi

Driving from Kerid Crater to Hveragerdi: 20 minutes (23.9 km)

After a long day of exploring, head to accommodation in Hveragerdi -“town of hot springs”. Famous for its Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River and some of the best guest houses, it is the perfect place to relax after a long day of travelling.

Day 4: Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Wrecked DC-3 Plane

Seljalandsfoss

Driving from Hveragerdi to Seljalandsfoss: 1 hour 6 minutes (82,6km)

Seljalandsfoss is unique in that visitors can walk behind the waterfall and experience the breathtaking view from a different perspective. It is important to note that the icy conditions during winter may restrict access to Seljalandsfoss for safety reasons.

Skogafoss

Driving from Seljalandsfoss to Skogafoss: 26 minutes (30,4 km)

This impressive 60 m tall and 25 wide waterfall is famous from multiple music videos and TV series such as “Viking” or “Game of Thrones”. The volume of the mist that the waterfall creates allows for admiring colourful rainbows by Skogaffoss. You can come really close to the waterfall due to the flat area. Moreover, there is also an observation deck above the waterfall to see it from the top.

Driving from Skogafoss to Wrecked DC-3 Plane: 11 minutes (11,2 km)

If the weather is nice, you can hike to the Wrecked DC-3 Plane on Sólheimasandur. 45-minutes trek will take you to such an unreal secluded place right on the shore of Iceland. Make sure to dress well, because such a big open space can be really windy.

Day 5: Reynisfjara Beach and Vík í Mýrdal

Reynisfjara Beach

Driving from Wrecked DC-3 Plane to Reynisfjara Beach: 25 minutes (25 km)

Every traveler to Iceland should visit Reynisfjara Beach, which features miles of black sand and basalt columns. However, it is one of the most dangerous places in Iceland, so many residents advise against visiting. If you plan to see this well-known location in Iceland, proceed with caution as the rough ocean may not always be as calm as it looks.

Vík í Mýrdal

Driving from Reynisfjara Beach to Vík í Mýrdal: 12 minutes (10.8 km)

You can stay in the small village Vík í Mýrdal where you will see puffins and enjoy dramatic scenery of the Icelandic coast. Hótel Vík is a beautiful modern accommodation that offers panoramic views from a cozy room.

Day 6: Katla Geopark, Landmannalaugar

Driving from Vík í Mýrdal to Katla Geopark: 32 minutes (47.9km), then follow F208 to Landmannalaugar

Both Katla Geopark and Landmannalaugar offer a glimpse into Iceland’s geological wonders. Landmannalaugar is a breathtaking destination that showcases the raw beauty of nature. This remote area is famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, which create a mesmerizing landscape of vibrant hues.

Day 7: Fjaðrárgljúfur, Vatnajökull National Park, Black Waterfall – Svartifoss

Driving from Katla Geopark to Fjaðrárgljúfur: 17 minutes (20.8km)

Fjaðrárgljúfur is a canyon that is 100 m deep and about 2 km long and was likely created during the last ice age. It is a great stop before starting your adventure at Vatnajökull National Park.

Vatnajökull National Park

Driving from Fjaðrárgljúfur to Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park): 58 minutes (77.4 km)

Vatnajökull National Park is one of the most beautiful places to see in Southern Iceland, especially in winter. It is also one of the biggest national parks in Europe which covers an area of 12,000 km2.

This Unesco World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views and one of a kind travel experience. The glacier’s surroundings feature a wide variety of landscapes including volcanic mountain, waterfalls or glacial lagoons. Moreover, ice caves can be explored while traveling there in winter.

Make sure to book your ice cave and glacier hike tour in advance. Then, enjoy glacial lagoons and the sound of crashing ice under your feet. Hiking narrow corridors of ice in Skaftafell while looking at the sunset above your head is an unforgettable experience.

Driving from Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park) to Fosshótel Núpar: 37 minutes (45.7 km)

After an active day, relax in a 3-star hotel – Fosshótel Núpar, which is also one of the best spots to see the Northern Lights. Situated in the middle of nowhere with big full-height windows will allow you to connect fully with nature.

Day 8: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Reyðarfjörður

Driving from Fosshótel Núpar to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: 1 hour 19 minutes (97,7 km)

Located in the southeastern part of the country, it is a large glacial lake formed by the melting of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The lagoon is famous for its stunning blue icebergs that float peacefully on the crystal-clear water, creating a mesmerizing sight for visitors.

Driving from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to Reyðarfjörður: 3 hours 58 minutes (294km)

Reyðarfjörður is a small town located on the eastern coast of Iceland. It is nestled in a picturesque fjord surrounded by stunning mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Tærgesen – Restaurant and Guest House is the perfect spot to stay for a night due to close proximity to the charming docks where you can take leisurely strolls along the waterfront.

Day 9: Ásbyrgi Canyon

Driving from Reyðarfjörður to Asbyrgi : 2 hours 48 minutes (226km)

Ásbyrgi Canyon in Iceland is a breathtaking natural wonder that is shaped like a horseshoe. The floodwaters carved out the horseshoe shape and left behind towering cliffs that reach up to 100 meters in height.

Day 10: Húsavík, Barnafoss, Godafoss, Aldeyjarfoss

Driving from Asbyrgi to Husavik: 48 minutes (61.9km)

Driving from Husavik to Barnafoss: 42minutes (38.2km)

Driving from to Barnafoss to Godafoss: 29 minutes (21.9km)

Driving from Godafoss to Aldeyjarfoss: 46 minutes (40.6km)

Continue exploring the stunning Iceland ring road, starting from Asbyrgi and heading towards Húsavík. From there you can get to Barnafoss, Godafoss and Aldeyjarfoss to capture unforgettable photos of the most beautiful natural wonders in Iceland.

Since 1987, Barnafoss has been a designated Natural Monument. As the river has carved its way through the lava, it has created a deep and narrow ravine, adding to the allure of this enchanting waterfall.

As part of the same river of Skjalfandafljot, Godafoss is also well worth exploring. Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods” it plunges 12 meters down into a tranquil and idyllic pool below.

Finally, head to the ancient Bárðardalshraun lava field and witness the river Skjálfandafljót plunging down from a height of 20 meters. Aldeyjarfoss waterfall is surrounded by basalt formations that date back an astonishing 9000 years.

Day 11: Rock in Hvitserkur

Driving from Aldeyjarfoss to Rock in Hvitserkur: 3 hours 54 minutes (54km)

Hvitserkur is a unique rock formation located on the northern coast of Iceland. It has been shaped by the relentless waves and weather conditions over thousands of years. You can park at Hvítserkur parking lot which is just a short walk from this beautiful natural wonder of Iceland.

Day 12: Kirkjufellsfossar

Driving from Rock in Hvitserkur to Kirkjufellsfossar: 3 hours 20 minutes (217 km)

One of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls is Kirkjufellsfossar. It is also one of the best spots to capture Northern Lights in beautiful scenery. With its captivating landscape and the possibility of witnessing the awe-inspiring Aurora, Kirkjufellsfossar is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

Day 13: Reykjavík

Harpa Concert Hall

Driving from Kirkjufellsfossar to Reykjavik: 2 hours 33 minutes (182km)

Walking from The Reykjavik EDITION to Harpa: 5 minutes (400 m)

After exploring all of the beautiful natural landmarks of Iceland, head off to Reykjavik. Visit the award winning concert hall – Harpa. With one of the most prestigious architectural awards – Mies van der Rohe makes it one of the most beautiful contemporary buildings in Iceland.

The Iceland Symphony Orchestra, Reykjavík Big Band and Icelandic Opera perform regularly there so if you fancy a cultural event, there is no better place to visit than Harpa. Visiting this concert hall can be also a short but a well worth experience. You can enter it for free to see colourful geometric glass windows inside the building.

Sun Voyager and Hallgrímskirkja church

Walking from Harpa to Sun Voyager and Hallgrímskirkja church: 7 minutes (600 m) then 17 minutes (1,4 km)

Next, take epic photos of Sun Voyager sculpture which is just a short walk from Harpa. Finally, visit Hallgrímskirkja church. The design of this religious building was inspired by Icelandic landscape. Hallgrímskirkja church was completed in 1986 and stands proud at a height of 74,5 meters in the heart of Reykjavik.

Day 14: Viking World and returning back to the airport

Driving from Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport: 45 minutes (53,7 km)

If you have plenty of time before your flight, stop at Viking World which is just a stone’s throw away from the airport. You will see traditional Icelandic houses with roofs covered in grass as well as the Viking Ship Museum.

While you’re out there visiting Diamond Beach or Wrecked DC-3 Plane, it’s important to bear in mind that exploring Iceland by road requires some flexibility, especially during winter. To ensure a safe trip, I highly recommend planning your adventure along Iceland’s Ring Road between mid spring and mid autumn.

I hope you find these tips helpful and if you take this trip, let me know!

About the author: Pauline is the author of ukeveryday.com. She loves exploring hidden gems in the UK and beyond. Her blog was shortlisted by FeedSpot as one of the Top 80 UK Travel Blogs to follow.

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This article has been archived by Slow Travel News for your research. The original version from Be My Travel Muse can be found here.

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