Are you dreaming of a trip to Iceland but unsure where to start? Planning a trip can be overwhelming, especially with limited time to explore. With our Iceland 10-day itinerary, we've created the ultimate guide to take you to some of the most spectacular sights and activities the country has to offer. Imagine driving along stunning Icelandic landscapes with:
Waterfalls cascading down steep cliffs
Glaciers stretching as far as the eye can see
Geothermal hot springs steaming in the distance
This itinerary has something for everyone, whether you're interested in hiking, soaking in hot springs, or taking a scenic drive around the famous Ring Road. Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
Around Iceland in 10 Days: The Ultimate Itinerary
Day 1: Reykjavik
Welcome to Reykjavik, the vibrant capital city of Iceland! Your Iceland 10-day itinerary begins with a day exploring the unique cultural and architectural highlights of the city. From stunning views atop the largest church in Iceland to the vibrant nightlife in downtown Reykjavik, this day has something for everyone.
Start Your Day by Visiting Hallgrimskirkja
Start your day by visiting Hallgrimskirkja, one of Reykjavik's most iconic landmarks. The church's towering height of 74 meters/243 feet and unique design inspired by Iceland's volcanic landscape make it a must-visit attraction. Take the elevator to the church's top for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. From here, you can take in the stunning beauty of the city's colorful rooftops and the distant coastline.
Head to the Harpa Concert Hall
Next, head to the Harpa concert hall and conference center, located on the waterfront in downtown Reykjavik. The building's unique glass facade and honeycomb-like structure make it one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. Inside, you can enjoy various events, including concerts, exhibitions, and conferences. Take a guided tour to learn about the building's history and design, or enjoy the stunning architecture and views.
Explore the Vibrant Nightlife in Downtown Reykjavik
In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife in downtown Reykjavik. With an array of bars, clubs, and restaurants, there is something for everyone. Sample traditional Icelandic cuisines, such as smoked lamb or fish stew, or try a local Icelandic beer. Reykjavik's nightlife is well-known for its friendly atmosphere and unique venues, so be sure to experience it yourself.
Highlights of the Day
Explore Reykjavik's iconic landmarks, including Hallgrimskirkja and the Harpa concert hall
Take in stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
Enjoy a variety of events at the Harpa conference center
Sample traditional Icelandic cuisine and local craft beers
Experience Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife
Day 2: Golden Circle
On day two of your Iceland 10-day itinerary, explore the famous Golden Circle. This route is a popular driving tour, with stops at:
Thingvellir National Park
Geysir
Gullfoss Waterfall
Begin Your Day by Visiting Thingvellir National Park
Begin your day by visiting Thingvellir National Park, the first stop on the Golden Circle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the southwest of Iceland and is known for its stunning natural beauty. Here you can:
Explore the site's numerous hiking trails
Take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
Visit the ruins of an old church.
Stop at Geysir To Witness Its Hot Springs
Next, stop at Geysir, a geothermal area filled with hot springs and mud pots. Here you can witness the impressive Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes. The area is also home to numerous other smaller geysers, which you can also explore.
Marvel at the Power of Gullfoss Waterfall
End your day with a visit to Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland's most powerful and impressive waterfall. Take in the awe-inspiring view of the waterfall and its two-tiered cascade, and don't forget to take photos!
Highlights of the Day
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir National Park
Witness the erupting hot springs at Geysir
Marvel at the power of Gullfoss waterfall
Take in breathtaking views of Iceland's stunning landscape
Day 3: South Coast
On day three of your 10-day Iceland itinerary, you will be driving along the scenic South Coast, known for its:
Breathtaking waterfalls
Black sand beaches
Majestic glaciers
The South Coast of Iceland is home to some of the most spectacular natural attractions in Iceland, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Drive Along the South Coast and Explore Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls
Begin your day by driving along the South Coast and exploring some of the most stunning waterfalls in Iceland. Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls are two of the most iconic and picturesque waterfalls in the country. Seljalandsfoss waterfall is a unique waterfall you can walk behind, providing an unforgettable experience. Skogafoss waterfall is equally impressive, with its powerful cascade and surrounding natural beauty.
Visit the Black Sand Beaches of Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey
Next, head to the famous black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey. Reynisfjara Beach is known for its:
Dramatic basalt columns
Towering cliffs
Picturesque black sand
Dyrhólaey is another popular promenade and sea arch with impressive views to the see and the adjacent black beach.
Hike on a Glacier at Solheimajokull
End your day by hiking on a glacier at Solheimajokull, a magnificent glacier in southern Iceland. Guided glacier hikes are available, allowing you to explore the glacier and experience its unique beauty up close.
Highlights of the Day
Explore Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls
Visit the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey
Hike on a glacier at Solheimajokull and experience its unique beauty up close
Take in breathtaking views of Iceland's stunning landscape and rugged coastline
Day 4: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
On day four of your 10-day Iceland itinerary, you will visit the breathtaking Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland's most famous and picturesque attractions.
Begin Your Day by Visiting Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Begin your day by visiting Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a stunning glacial lake filled with icebergs. Take a boat tour and witness the icebergs up close, and marvel at their unique beauty and colors. You can also walk along the shore of the lake and explore the surrounding landscape.
Visit the Diamond Beach
Next, visit the nearby Diamond Beach, just across the road from the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. The beach is named after the sparkling icebergs that wash up on the shore, giving it a magical and otherworldly feel.
Explore the Vatnajokull National Park
End your day by exploring the Vatnajokull National Park, which is located in southeastern Iceland. The park is known for its:
Stunning natural beauty
Glaciers
Mountains
Lakes
Take a guided tour to learn about the park's unique history and geological features, or simply take in the breathtaking views and explore the hiking trails.
Highlights of the Day
Visit the breathtaking Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and take a boat tour to witness the icebergs up close
Explore Diamond Beach and marvel at the sparkling icebergs
Explore the Vatnajokull National Park and take in its stunning natural beauty
Day 5: East Fjords
On day five of your Iceland 10-day itinerary, you will drive through the picturesque East Fjords of Iceland. This region is known for its:
Breathtaking scenery,
Dramatic cliffs
Stunning mountain ranges
Charming fishing villages
Drive Through the East Fjords
As you drive through the East Fjords, take in the stunning scenery surrounding you. Marvel at the jagged cliffs that rise from the sea and the winding roads that lead through the mountains. This region is a photographer's dream, with countless opportunities to capture Iceland's natural beauty.
Visit The Town of Seydisfjordur
Make a stop in Seydisfjordur, known for its colorful houses and stunning scenery. This charming town is located at the head of a narrow fjord and is surrounded by towering mountains. Stroll through the town's picturesque streets, visit the local shops and cafés, or enjoy the views.
Hike in the Egilsstadir Area
End your day with a hike in the scenic Egilsstadir area. This region is home to some of Iceland's most beautiful hiking trails, with options for all levels of hikers. Take a leisurely walk through the countryside, or challenge yourself with a steep climb up a mountain. Whatever you choose, you will surely be rewarded with breathtaking views of Iceland's stunning landscape.
Highlights of the Day
Drive through the picturesque East Fjords
Visit the colorful town of Seydisfjordur
Hike in the scenic Egilsstadir area
Capture Iceland's natural beauty in stunning photographs
Day 6: Lake Myvatn
Day 6 of your Iceland 10-day itinerary promises a unique and relaxing experience! Today, you will head to the beautiful Lake Myvatn area, known for its stunning geothermal wonders and natural hot springs.
Visit the Geothermal Area of Hverir
Begin your day with a visit to the geothermal area of Hverir, located near the Krafla volcano. Here you can witness:
The bubbling mud pots
Steaming vents
Fumaroles that make up this unique landscape.
The striking sulfuric colors and the distinct smell of sulfur in the air make this geothermal area a must-visit attraction.
See the Stunning Waterfalls of Godafoss and Dettifoss
Next, head to Godafoss waterfall, located in the northeastern region of Iceland. Known as the ‘Waterfall of the Gods,’ Godafoss is an impressive 12 meters/39 feet high and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. After exploring Godafoss, continue to Dettifoss, considered one of Europe's most powerful waterfalls. Marvel at the sheer force of the falls as they cascade down a 44-meter/144 feet drop into a narrow canyon below.
Relax in the Natural Hot Springs of Myvatn
After a day of exploring, take some time to relax in the natural hot springs of Myvatn. The hot springs are in an idyllic setting with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The warm waters and mineral-rich mud are known for their therapeutic qualities. They are a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Highlights of the Day
Visit the geothermal area of Hverir and witness bubbling mud pots and steaming vents.
See the stunning waterfalls of Godafoss and Dettifoss.
Relax in the natural hot springs of Myvatn and take in the scenic views.
Day 7: Akureyri
Day 7 of your 10-day Iceland Itinerary will take you to Akureyri, the second-largest city in Iceland. Akureyri is known as the ‘Capital of the North’ and is the perfect place to explore Icelandic culture. Visiting Akureyri is a must when you plan your trip around Iceland in 10 days!
Visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden and the Akureyri Art Museum
Start your day with a visit to the Akureyri Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the city's heart. With over 7,000 plant species, the garden is a delight for nature lovers and photographers alike. Next, head to the Akureyri Art Museum to see some of the best contemporary Icelandic art.
Go Whale Watching in the Fjord
In the afternoon, take a whale-watching tour from the town's harbor. Akureyri is located in the middle of a fjord, and the waters are home to various whales, including:
Humpback whales
Minke whales
Blue whales
The tour will take you on a scenic journey through the fjord, where you can see these magnificent creatures up close.
Highlights of the Day
Explore the charming town of Akureyri
Visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden and the Akureyri Art Museum
Take a whale-watching tour in the fjord
Day 8: West Iceland
Welcome to Day 8 of your epic 10-day Iceland itinerary! Today we will be exploring the stunning West Iceland, which is home to the breathtaking Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Visit the Black Sand Beaches of Djúpalónssandur and Arnarstapi
Your first stop will be at Djúpalónssandur, a black sand beach with dramatic rock formations and a fascinating history. Here, you can see the rusted remains of a British trawler that wrecked on the beach in 1948. Afterward, head to Arnarstapi, a charming fishing village where you can explore the unique rock formations and enjoy breathtaking sea views.
Hike to the Top of the Snæfellsjökull Glacier
One of the highlights of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the Snæfellsjökull glacier, which famously served as the entrance to the Earth's center in Jules Verne's ‘Journey to the Center of the Earth.’ You can hike to the top of the glacier and take in the incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
Visit the Geothermal Area of Deildartunguhver
Before heading back to your accommodation, make a stop at the Deildartunguhver geothermal area, the largest hot spring in Europe. Here, you can witness the incredible power of nature as boiling water shoots up from the ground.
Highlights of the Day
Explore the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Visit the black sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur and Arnarstapi
Hike to the top of the Snæfellsjökull glacier
Experience the power of nature at Deildartunguhver geothermal area
Day 9: Reykjanes Peninsula
For Day 9 of your Iceland 10-day itinerary, we will explore the beautiful Reykjanes Peninsula. This area is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in all of Iceland and is perfect for those looking to get off the beaten path.
Explore the Blue Lagoon and Kleifarvatn Lake
Start your day with a visit to the world-famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters and take in the stunning views of the volcanic landscape. Next, head to Kleifarvatn Lake, a serene and picturesque spot surrounded by mountains and lava fields.
Visit the Bridge Between Two Continents
One of the highlights of Reykjanes Peninsula is the Bridge Between Two Continents. This is a unique landmark where you can walk between two tectonic plates, the North American and Eurasian plates, which are slowly drifting apart.
Hike in the Volcanic Landscape of Reykjanesfólkvangur
Finally, end your day with a hike in Reykjanesfólkvangur, a protected area with a unique volcanic landscape. The hike will take you through:
Lava fields
Craters
Steam vents
During the hike, you will also get a glimpse of the raw power of Iceland's geothermal activity.
Highlights of the Day
Visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa
Explore Kleifarvatn Lake
Walk between two tectonic plates at the Bridge Between Two Continents
Hike in the volcanic landscape of Reykjanesfólkvangur
Day 10: Reykjavik
Congratulations! Today is the last day of your 10-day itinerary of Iceland. Spend the day exploring everything that Reykjavik has to offer, and savor the last moments of your incredible journey.
Go Shopping on Laugavegur Street
Start your day by shopping on Laugavegur, one of the main shopping streets in Reykjavik. Here you can find all kinds of Icelandic souvenirs, from wool sweaters to handmade ceramics.
Visit the Perlan Observation Deck
Next, head to the Perlan observation deck for a breathtaking panoramic view of Reykjavik. This landmark building is located on a hill and offers a 360-degree view of the city, including the mountains and the sea. It's the perfect way to end your Iceland adventure and reflect on all the amazing places you've seen.
Highlights of the Day
Go shopping on Laugavegur Street
Visit the Perlan observation deck
Admire the panoramic views of Reykjavik from the Perlan observation deck
Iceland 10-Day Itinerary: Winter Edition
Winter in Iceland is a magical time, with snowy landscapes and the chance to witness the incredible Northern Lights. Here is an Iceland winter itinerary for 10 days:
Day 1: Reykjavik City Tour and Blue Lagoon
Day 2: Golden Circle and Snowmobiling
Day 3: South Coast and Glacier Hike
Day 4: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Ice Caving
Day 5: Eastern Fjords
Day 6: Lake Myvatn and Geothermal Areas
Day 7: Akureyri and Whale Watching
Day 8: West Iceland and Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Day 9: Reykjanes Peninsula and Geothermal Wonders
Day 10: Reykjavik Shopping and Perlan Observation Deck
Iceland 10-Day Itinerary: Summer Edition
Looking for the ultimate summer adventure? Look no further than our 10 days in Iceland summer itinerary!
Day 1: Reykjavik City Tour and Blue Lagoon
Day 2: Golden Circle and Waterfalls Exploration
Day 3: South Coast and Black Sand Beaches
Day 4: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Boat Tour
Day 5: Eastern Fjords and Hiking
Day 6: Lake Myvatn and Natural Hot Springs
Day 7: Akureyri and Whale Watching
Day 8: West Iceland and Horseback Riding
Day 9: Go Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure
Day 10: Reykjanes Peninsula and Cave Exploration
Iceland 10-Day Itinerary: Fall Edition
Fall in Iceland is the perfect time of year to experience the vibrant colors and cozy atmosphere of this beautiful country. Here's a 10-day Iceland itinerary for fall:
Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik
Day 2: Explore Reykjavik
Day 3: Golden Circle
Day 4: South Coast Waterfalls
Day 5: Glacier Hiking
Day 6: East Fjords
Day 7: Lake Mývatn
Day 8: Whale Watching in Akureyri
Day 9: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Day 10: Departure from Reykjavik
Iceland 10-Day Itinerary: Spring Edition
Here is a 10-day Iceland itinerary for spring, perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Iceland during the season of new beginnings:
Day 1: Reykjavik City tour
Day 2: Golden Circle and Kerid Crater
Day 3: Westman Islands to see puffins
Day 4: Vatnajokull Glacier National Park
Day 5: Skaftafell National Park
Day 6: Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Day 7: Eastfjords road trip
Day 8: Whale watching in Husavik
Day 9: Myvatn Nature Baths and Dimmuborgir
Day 10: Akureyri and the northern coast
Iceland 10-Day Itinerary: Ring Road Edition
If you're planning a trip to Iceland, driving around the Ring Road is a must-do. This self-drive Iceland itinerary will show you the country's beauty as you drive around this spectacular route. Here's our suggested Iceland Ring Road itinerary for 10 days:
Day 1: Reykjavik
Day 2: Golden Circle
Day 3: South Coast
Day 4: Skaftafell National Park
Day 5: East Fjords
Day 6: Lake Mývatn
Day 7: Akureyri
Day 8: Skagafjörður
Day 9: Westfjords
Day 10: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Make the Best Iceland Itinerary 10 Days a Reality
Creating the best Iceland itinerary for 10 days can be a challenge. Still, with careful planning and research, you can create an amazing vacation. Renting a campervan in Iceland is one of the best ways to experience this beautiful country from coast-to-coast. Make your dream Icelandic adventure come true by renting a reliable campervan today!
FAQs
How many miles will I drive on a 10-day tour in Iceland?
On a tour around Iceland in 10 days, you can expect to drive between 1,500 and 2,000 miles (2400 to 3200 kilometers). This will depend on the route you take and how much time you spend at each destination. Also, remember that some roads in Iceland can be quite challenging, so you should factor in extra time for potentially longer drives.
How much to spend for 10 days in Iceland?
Generally, you should plan to spend an average of $100-300 per day on a tour around Iceland in 10 days. For example, if you're looking to stay in hotels and eat out most nights, the cost of your trip is considerably higher. On the hand, if you opt for a campervan rental in Iceland and cook your own meals, you can save significantly on accommodations.
How to pack for 10 days in Iceland?
To pack for 10 days in Iceland, you should plan for various weather conditions. This includes:
Waterproof outerwear
Multiple layers of clothing (including wool or synthetic materials)
Hat and gloves
Good walking shoes
Sunscreen
Bathing suit
What is the best Iceland itinerary for 10 days?
The best Iceland itinerary of 10 days will depend on what type of activities you're interested in and how much time you want to spend at each destination. However, some highlights include the following:
The Golden Circle
The South Coast
Akureyri
10 Days Around Iceland: Memories to Last a Lifetime
No matter which 10-day itinerary you choose, Iceland truly has something for everyone. Whether it's a relaxing city break in Reykjavik or an action-packed Ring Road adventure, these memories will last a lifetime.
Renting your own motorhome or campervan is the perfect way to explore this beautiful country with freedom and flexibility while creating unforgettable experiences along the way. Start planning today to make your dream Icelandic vacation come true!