Iceland is famed for its breathtaking landscapes of fjords, glaciers, black sand beaches, hot springs and volcanoes – this 10-day Iceland itinerary allows you to see some of these gorgeous areas!
Start off your trip by touring Reykjavik and its most beloved attractions such as the Blue Lagoon. Next, hop onto the Ring Road to visit Thingvillir National Park, Kerid Crater, Langjokull Glacier and Helgufoss Waterfall – then complete it all off with Helgufoss Waterfall at Helgufoss Waterfall before returning back into Reykjavik.
Day 1 & 2 – Reykjavik
Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, is an exciting, modern city filled with so many things to see and do. Start your first day with a visit to the National Museum of Iceland or Perlan (geology and nature museum) and walking by the spectacular Hallgrimskirkja (cathedral), before heading to Sky Lagoon or the Blue Lagoon for some hot spring time. If you prefer a more lively kid-friendly pool, check out the heated pools with slides including Laugardalslaug.
Day 2-4 – South Coast
On your second day in Iceland, take a trip down south. Visit Gljufrabui waterfall and crater, Hálsanefshellir Cave, Skogafoss waterfall, Skogar Folk Museum and Vik village in this region of the island.
Continue your exploration along the South Coast to witness black sand beaches, Reynisfjara waterfall, Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon where massive icebergs bob in and out of sight, as well as Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon where massive icebergs glide past.
More excursions along more of Iceland’s south coast is one of the best ways to discover this incredible country. Head to Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss and Fjaðrárgljúfur (river canyon with panoramic views in picture above).
Here are some great tours of the South Coast.
Day 5 & 6 – Continue around Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s best-known scenic routes, boasting both stunning landmarks and historically significant places. Furthermore, it’s easily accessible from Reykjavik and its airport area – making it the perfect addition to any itinerary.
Thingvellir National Park, founded in 930 AD and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. is the starting ( or ending) point of the Golden Circle tour depending which way you go.
From here you can take the tour to Gullfoss (Golden Falls), created when Hvita river tumbles and plunges 32 meters down into an underground crevice. It gets its name due to the golden color of its waters as they mix with silt and sediment from Hvita river below. And you will see the famous Geysir (Geyser) and Kerid Crater.
Here are some great Golden Circle Tours.
Day 7 & 8 – North Coast
Iceland’s south coast boasts many iconic waterfalls and national parks, but the northern peninsulas hold just as much promise for sightseeing adventures! Whale-watching tours can be found in Husavik; explore Lake Myvatn’s geothermal wonderland; experience its geothermal wonders; discover its geothermal power; enjoy whale-watching off Husavik. Don’t miss the Húsavík Whale Museum for whale information and gift shop.
The Akureyri Botanical Garden is also well worth a stop during the summer, and the Grjótagjá lava cave is spectacular as well. If you have time, head to the amazing waterfalls including Aldeyjarfoss, Hafragilsfoss, and Goðafoss.
Day 9 & 10 – Snaefellsnes Peninsula
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula has become known as an “Iceland in Miniature.” This region features many of Iceland’s natural attractions, from black sand beaches and waterfalls tumbling off cliffsides to lava fields and mountains. Kirkjufellsfoss is one of the most spectacular views, as well as the famous Stone Bridge.
The peninsula boasts several picturesque coastal fishing villages, such as Arnarstapi. Spend some time exploring this town which boasts attractions such as a stone bridge, Gatklettur rock arch and Bardur Saga Snaefellsnes Statue – worth spending some time here!
The peninsula is also an ideal destination for nature-lovers, being one of Iceland’s premier birding spots and home to Arctic terns, northern gannets, and other seabirds. Be sure to stop to have a delicious meal in the seaside village of Olafsvie.
Then head back to Reykjavic for your flights home!
Check out additional tours in iceland here.
