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Iceland, a country of dramatic landscapes, geothermal wonders, towering glaciers, and thundering waterfalls, offers an adventure that’s as exhilarating as the land itself. Our road trip will take you from the vibrant capital of Reykjavik to the remote beauty of the Westfjords, through ancient lava fields, majestic fjords, and charming fishing villages, ensuring an experience that will leave you inspired and longing for more.

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reykjavik: the starting point

Your adventure begins in Reykjavik, Iceland’s colorful capital and the northernmost capital city in the world. Reykjavik is a city that perfectly blends cosmopolitan culture with small-town charm. Start your exploration by visiting the iconic Hallgrímskirkja, a towering church that offers panoramic views of the city from its observation tower. Stroll through the charming streets of the city center, where you’ll find vibrant street art, quirky boutiques, and cozy cafes.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Harpa Concert Hall, a striking glass building on the waterfront, or take a dip in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s famous geothermal spa, located just outside the city. Reykjavik is also a great place to experience Icelandic cuisine, with plenty of restaurants offering dishes like lamb, fresh seafood, and the adventurous delicacy of fermented shark. In the evening, soak up the lively atmosphere in one of the city’s many bars, where you can sample local craft beers or try a shot of Brennivín, Iceland’s signature schnapps.

hvolsvöllur: waterfalls and glaciers

Leaving Reykjavik behind, head southeast towards Hvolsvöllur, a small town that serves as the gateway to some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders. As you drive along the scenic Route 1, also known as the Ring Road, you’ll pass through stunning landscapes of rolling hills, lava fields, and distant glaciers.

Hvolsvöllur is the perfect base for exploring the nearby Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, two of Iceland’s most breathtaking cascades. Seljalandsfoss is unique in that you can walk behind the waterfall, offering a truly immersive experience. Skógafoss, with its powerful 60-meter drop, is equally impressive and often features a rainbow on sunny days. Continue your adventure with a visit to the Sólheimajökull glacier, where you can take a guided glacier hike or ice climbing tour, offering a close-up view of the mesmerizing blue ice formations.

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skaftafell: nature's playground

From Hvolsvöllur, continue your journey east to Skaftafell, part of the Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier. Skaftafell is a nature lover’s paradise, with an array of hiking trails that lead you through lush valleys, past roaring waterfalls, and up to stunning viewpoints overlooking the glacier.

One of the most popular hikes is the trail to Svartifoss, a waterfall surrounded by dramatic black basalt columns that resemble a giant organ. For those seeking more adventure, take a guided tour onto the Vatnajökull glacier, where you can explore ice caves, crevasses, and otherworldly ice formations. Skaftafell also offers easy access to the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you can take a boat tour among the floating icebergs and even spot seals lounging on the ice. Dont forget to stop at Diamond beach.

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egilsstaðir: the east fjords

Leaving the glaciers behind, your journey takes you northeast to Egilsstaðir, the largest town in Iceland’s East Fjords. The drive to Egilsstaðir offers some of the most scenic coastal views in the country, with towering cliffs, winding fjords, and picturesque fishing villages dotting the landscape.

Egilsstaðir is a peaceful town surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Take a leisurely drive through the fjords, stopping at quaint villages like Seyðisfjörður, known for its colorful wooden houses and thriving arts scene. If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss the chance to hike to the top of the nearby mountains, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the fjords and valleys below. For a more relaxing experience, visit the geothermal baths at Vök, located on the edge of Lake Urriðavatn, where you can soak in hot water while enjoying the serene lake views.

Egilsstaðir

akureyri: the capital of the north 

Next, drive across the northern highlands to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city and the vibrant heart of the north. Akureyri is a lively town with a charming mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities. Begin your visit by exploring the town’s botanical gardens, which are home to an impressive variety of plants, many of which are unique to Iceland.

Akureyri is also a great base for exploring the nearby Mývatn region, known for its volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and birdlife. Visit the stunning Goðafoss waterfall, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” or take a dip in the Mývatn Nature Baths, a less crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon. For those interested in wildlife, a whale-watching tour from nearby Húsavík offers a chance to see these majestic creatures up close. In the winter months, Akureyri is also a popular destination for skiing, with several slopes offering a range of difficulty levels.

blönduós: a quiet retreat 

From Akureyri, drive west to Blönduós, a small town located on the banks of the Blanda River. Blönduós is a tranquil retreat, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the peaceful Icelandic countryside. The town is known for its beautiful riverfront, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the walking paths or try your hand at fishing in the Blanda River, which is famous for its salmon.

Blönduós is also home to the Icelandic Textile Center, where you can learn about the country’s rich tradition of textile arts and even try your hand at weaving or knitting. For a unique experience, visit the nearby Húnafjörður fjord, where you can see seals lounging on the shore or take a boat tour to explore the fjord’s rugged coastline. Blönduós offers a perfect blend of relaxation and nature, making it a great stop on your Icelandic road trip.

Snæfellsnes: a journey to the center of the earth 

Continuing your journey west, head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it features many of the country’s diverse landscapes in one area. The peninsula is dominated by the Snæfellsjökull glacier, a dormant volcano that was made famous by Jules Verne’s novel Journey to the Center of the Earth.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from hiking to exploring volcanic craters and lava fields. Visit the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi, where you can walk along the dramatic coastal cliffs and see the iconic Gatklettur rock arch. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the black sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur, where you can see the remains of a shipwreck scattered across the shore. For a truly magical experience, take a guided tour into the Vatnshellir lava cave, where you’ll descend into the depths of a 8,000-year-old lava tube.

reykjavik: back in the capital 

After exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, return to Reykjavik to complete your Icelandic adventure. Take this time to revisit any favorite spots in the city or explore any areas you may have missed at the beginning of your trip. Reykjavik’s lively arts scene, diverse cuisine, and vibrant nightlife offer plenty to keep you entertained.

As you reflect on your journey through Iceland, from the bustling streets of Reykjavik to the remote beauty of the Westfjords, you’ll carry with you memories of breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable adventures, and the warm hospitality of the Icelandic people. Iceland is a land that invites exploration, connection, and inspiration, and your road trip through this incredible country will surely leave you longing for your next adventure.

Average temperature Reykjavik

Climate Iceland

• Regions:

  • South Coast (Reykjavik): Mild and wet, influenced by the Gulf Stream.

  • Interior Highlands: Subarctic, colder and more variable weather.

• Seasons:

  • Winter (December to February): Cold, with short days and frequent snow, especially in the interior.

  • Summer (June to August): Cool with long daylight hours, mild temperatures, especially near the coast.

  • Spring and Autumn: Transitional, with cool temperatures and rapidly changing weather.

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