3-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of Iceland's Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle & the South Coast
Description
Summary
Description
See Iceland's finest sights and most popular attractions in only three days on this summer self-drive tour. This tour is perfect for those who only have a little time but want to see as much as possible, including the most popular sites in Iceland, the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and more.
This self-drive tour includes a detailed itinerary yet offers you the ultimate freedom and flexibility to do things your way. You'll have a travel agent to help you personalize your itinerary, and your car and accommodation are included. Plus, you can contact us with any questions 24 hours a day, seven days per week.
From the Keflavik International Airport, a short drive takes you directly to Iceland's famous Blue Lagoon, where you can beat the jet lag with a soothing dip in geothermally heated waters. The Blue Lagoon features unique milky-blue waters and top-rated spa facilities.
Your second day will see you undertake the fantastic Golden Circle sightseeing tour of Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. These attractions are must-visits because of their incredible natural beauty and proximity to the Icelandic capital.
You are free, however, to customize this as you please. For instance, the Golden Circle can be undertaken on the first day of your trip, leaving the second to explore the glorious South Coast of Iceland, complete with its mighty glaciers, tumbling waterfalls, and jet-black beaches.
Some of the main features of the South Coast include the Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, Myrdalsjokull glacier, and Vik village.
The days are yours to enjoy however you like. You are the driver, so you can spend longer at the attractions you like and leave others behind. During the long and bright summer nights, you can listen to the birds chirping in the calm nature while basking in the glow of the midnight sun.
We know what brings you to Iceland. In the beautiful and peaceful environment of the country, you have a chance to revitalize your spirit after too long spent on the daily grind. A quiet space to reflect is even more important on a short holiday.
Don't spend weeks figuring out what to see during your short stay in Iceland. Let an expert take care of the planning and organizing, and simply tweak things to meet your preferences. Travelers love this top-rated self-drive tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours before your trip, so take advantage of your chance to book.
Make the most of a fleeting visit to Iceland with this spectacular three-day self-drive tour, including the country's top attractions. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival and the Blue Lagoon Spa
Welcome to Iceland, a volcanic island of staggering beauty and unlimited possibilities. You will first pick up your car from Keflavik International Airport and then head towards Reykjavik.
You could stop at the Blue Lagoon on your way to Iceland's capital city. This world-renowned spa is known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments. It's in the middle of a moss-covered lava field, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere.
If you add the Blue Lagoon, it will be arranged according to your flights. If there's no time to visit the lagoon today, it can be added to another day. Your travel consultant will be able to arrange this for you. If you have extra free time, there's still plenty to see and do in Reykjavik and on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Once you arrive in Reykjavik, you'll check in to your accommodation before heading out to discover the local culture. Why not visit some of the city's best-known landmarks, including the Hallgrimskirkja Lutheran Church, Harpa Concert Hall, or Perlan observation deck?
Reykjavik is rich in cultural offerings, particularly its museums. The National Museum of Iceland is an essential visit, taking guests through Icelandic history from the Settlement Age to modern times. The Reykjavik Art Museum is another highlight, offering a comprehensive collection of works from local and international artists across three distinct venues in the city.
Aside from these, we recommend you sample the local nightlife and culinary scene. Reykjavik's dynamic nightlife comes alive with lively bars and live music, often operating into the early hours. The city's culinary scene is a testament to Iceland's rich natural resources, focusing on fresh seafood and traditional dishes. You'll discover innovative menus and various vegetarian and vegan options.
If you arrive early in the morning, it's possible to add a Golden Circle tour to your day to make the most of the long hours of summer sunlight. More details can be seen on your day two itinerary.
You will spend your first night in Reykjavik accommodation.
Day 2 - The Golden Circle and/or South Coast
Your second day will see you partake in Iceland's most famous sightseeing route, the Golden Circle. This comprises three significant attractions: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.
You'll begin at Thingvellir, famed for its important role in Iceland's history as the founding place of the world's first elected parliament. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage site, mainly because it's one of the few places on Earth where it's possible to see both the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates sticking out.
The second site is the Geysir geothermal area in the Haukadalur valley. It's the home of the famous hot springs, Strokkur and Geysir. While Geysir is no longer active, it's renowned for giving its name to geysers worldwide.
Strokkur, on the other hand, will erupt every five to ten minutes, shooting a jet of boiling water up to 66 feet (20 meters) into the air. Aside from these two superstars, the area is rich with bubbling mud pools and smaller hot springs.
Your final stop of the day, if you so choose, is the mighty waterfall Gullfoss, undoubtedly one of the most beloved attractions in the country. Dropping 105 feet (32 meters) over two cragged steps, this waterfall creates a billowing cloud of mist as its glacial water cascades into the valley below.
If you covered the Golden Circle on your first day, you are encouraged to spend the day sightseeing along the picturesque South Coast. This Icelandic region offers many beautiful attractions, which are mostly framed by the Atlantic Ocean.
You'll pass waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, and black sand beaches like Reynisfjara, all the way to Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Colloquially known as the "Crown Jewel of Iceland," this peaceful, iceberg-filled lake is one attraction you won't want to miss.
Afterward, you'll begin the journey back to Reykjavik, where you will spend the night.
Day 3 - Reykjanes & Departure
It's your final day in the land of ice and fire, but depending on your flight time, there may still be time to fit in some added sightseeing.
For those who have a later flight and choose to visit the Blue Lagoon today, you'll finish your stay unwinding before heading to the airport. This is the perfect place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters and reflect on the incredible adventure you've just taken.
If your flight is later, there are plenty of things to do in Reykjavik or the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Start your day with a visit to Hallgrimskirkja, the city's iconic church, and take the elevator up to the observation deck for panoramic views. Explore the old harbor, a bustling area filled with shops, museums, and various culinary options.
Or, spend time wandering through Laugavegur, the city's main shopping street, where you'll find everything from local design shops to bookstores. A walk around the tranquil Tjornin lake is a must for a breath of fresh air.
Those who wish to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula will find it teeming with natural beauty and geological wonders. Visitors can check out the Bridge Between Continents, symbolizing the separation of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
The peninsula's remarkable geothermal activity is on full display at the geothermal area of Krysuvik, known for its colorful terrain. The historic lighthouses at Gardskagi and Reykjanesviti offer stunning vistas of the rugged coastline, and the Gunnuhver hot springs showcase the raw power of geothermal energy.
For a dose of history and culture, the Viking World Museum in Njardvik provides a fascinating look at Iceland's Viking heritage. Whether hiking, birdwatching, or exploring historical sites, the Reykjanes Peninsula offers visitors many ways to experience Iceland's unique landscape and culture.
You'll return your car to the airport a few hours before your flight, ensuring a relaxed onward trip. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope to see you again soon.
What to bring
Good to know
Make sure you arrive in Iceland before noon to make this trip. Self-drive tours begin either in Reykjavik or at Keflavik International Airport. A valid driver's license and a one-year-long on-road experience are required.
Please be aware that your itinerary may be rearranged to fit your arrival date and time better.
It can happen, in the case of extreme weather, that an activity is canceled. If your chosen activity is canceled, we will assist you with rearranging or booking other activities when possible, and any potential price difference will be refunded to you.
Accommodation
See our accommodation levels below and our preferred accommodation partners under each day in the daily itinerary.
Bookings for one person will be arranged in single rooms, and bookings for two or more people will share a twin/double or triple room(s).
Teenagers and children will be arranged in the same room with parents. If additional room(s) is needed, additional costs will incur.
Guide to Iceland will provide you with the best available accommodation at the time of your booking from our preferred partners. Please keep in mind that hotel quality in Iceland varies among locations and availability is highly limited. If our preferred partners are fully booked at the time of your booking, we will find another suitable accommodation for you of similar level.
Please note that not all locations offer quality level accommodation. Comfort level accommodation will be arranged at those particular locations, which is reflected in the quality level upgrade price.
We always do our best to accommodate special requests, which may incur additional costs. Press choose a date to find availability.
Rooms with a private bathroom in three star hotels or quality guesthouses. Very close to the best attractions at each location. Breakfast is included.
Rooms with a private bathroom in a four star hotel or superior rooms in a quality three star hotel at the best locations in Iceland. Breakfast is included.
Car
Below you can see the car rental options available for this self-drive tour.
All our vehicles are new or current models, of maximum 2 years of age. Super Budget levels come with standard CDW insurance, while all other levels also include Gravel Protection (GP) insurance. Please note that off-road driving is illegal for all types of cars.
All levels come equipped with free Wi-fi. You can enjoy unlimited data with the Wi-Fi device, which can be connected to up to 10 devices at once. The car rental will provide 24-hour roadside emergency services.
Age requirement for each level can be found below. For all levels, the driver must possess a valid driving license for at least one year before the date of the rental.
We recommend Budget 4X4 level for summer driving and Comfort 4X4 for winter driving.
A small 2WD vehicle such as Toyota Aygo or similar, fit for basic travelling in everyday conditions. Compact and comfortable for up to 2 travellers with very little luggage. No highland capabilities. The driver must be of 20 years of age or above.
A basic 2WD vehicle, such as a Toyota Yaris or similar, suitable for travelling in everyday conditions. Comfortable for 3 travellers with light luggage. This vehicle does not have highland capabilities. The driver must be of 20 years of age or above.
A basic 4WD (4X4) jeep or SUV such as a Dacia Duster or similar. Comfortably fit up to 3 travellers with 2 large pieces of luggage. Fit for most travel and decent for snow and off-asphalt driving. Has basic highland capabilities. The driver must be of 20 years of age or above.
A medium-sized 4WD (4x4) jeep or SUV such as a Toyota Rav4 (automatic) and Suzuki Vitara (manual), or similar. Comfortably fit up to 4 travelers with 3 large pieces of luggage. Fit for most travel and good for snow and off-asphalt driving. Has basic highland capabilities. The driver must be of 21 years of age or above.
A large 4WD jeep such as a Toyota Land Cruiser or similar. Comfortable for up to 4 travellers with 4 large pieces of luggage. Fit for nearly all travelling. Has full highland capabilities to drive on accessible mountain roads. The driver must be of 21 years of age or above.
A large 9-seater van such as a Mercedes Benz Vito or similar. Comfortable for 5 to 7 travelers. If seated full, luggage space is limited. The driver must be of 23 years of age or above.
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