5-Day Self-Drive Tour of South Iceland With the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon

Welcome to the “land of fire and ice”! Your summer self-drive in Iceland begins today.

Pick up your car from the friendly staff at the Keflavik International Airport after landing, and begin your exciting vacation in Iceland. To reach Reykjavik, drive through the blackened lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. As you continue your journey for nearly an hour, enjoy the rugged coastline views framed by the North Atlantic Ocean.

A must-see stop on your way to Reykjavik is the Blue Lagoon. Surrounded by moss-covered lava fields, this geothermal spa’s azure waters offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. 

Known for its healing properties, the Blue Lagoon offers an otherworldly experience you won't want to miss. If you’re short on time, no worries! Your travel agent can easily arrange another day to visit.

If you’re not in a rush, be sure to explore more attractions on the Reykjanes Peninsula. One highlight is the Bridge Between Continents. Here, you can stand on two continents at once, straddling the gap between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Another gem to check out is the Valhnukamol Boulder Ridge, where you'll encounter a captivating landscape of jagged boulders and striking natural formations. Don’t miss the Reykjanes Lighthouse nearby, perched on the dramatic coastline, providing incredible views with a touch of history.

An alternative to the Blue Lagoon is the Sky Lagoon, just around a 15-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik. This geothermal spa offers stunning ocean views while you soak in its healing waters. Try the Skjol spa ritual, a rejuvenating seven-step wellness experience with hot and cold treatments.

Then, it’s time to head to your accommodation in Reykjavik. The capital is small but full of life, especially during summer. With daylight stretching late into the night, you’ll have the perfect excuse to explore the lively streets well into the evening.

Check out nearby attractions like the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church. This striking structure is inspired by Iceland’s volcanic landscape, with its unique, stepped shape resembling the columns of a basalt lava flow.

Just a short stroll away, you'll find Laugavegur, Reykjavik's lively shopping street. Known for its mix of boutiques, cafes, and energetic atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to explore on foot, especially as the evening light casts a magical glow.

Rest at your accommodation for the night, and prepare for another day filled with incredible experiences in Iceland tomorrow.

Today’s drive through Iceland’s famous Golden Circle is packed with jaw-dropping landscapes, fascinating history, and exciting optional adventures.

The first stop of your Golden Circle tour is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s where Iceland’s first parliament was established in 930 AD.

But the park is more than a historical landmark. Thingvellir sits on the boundary of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, showcasing a dramatic landscape of deep fissures and lava fields. 

Don’t miss the Silfra Fissure, a stunning underwater rift filled with glacial water so clear you can see over 300 feet (100 meters) down. For a one-of-a-kind experience, dive into a Silfra snorkeling tour and swim between two continents! You need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim to participate in this snorkeling adventure.

If you'd rather stay dry, stroll through the Almannagja Gorge. This is where Iceland’s ancient lawmakers once gathered, surrounded by stunning geological landscapes.

Next, drive to Haukadalur Valley, home to Iceland’s most famous geysers. The massive Geysir is mostly dormant these days. But its brother, Strokkur Geyser, erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 98 feet (30 meters) into the sky.

After that, your Golden Circle tour continues to the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall, the “Golden Waterfall.” Here, the glacial Hvita River plunges two dramatic drops, creating a roaring cascade that sends rainbow clouds of mist into the air. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a snowmobile and race across the Langjokull glacier. It’s an experience that takes you deep into the icy wilderness!

If you prefer a more laid-back excursion, consider a riding tour with the famous Icelandic horse. These small but sturdy horses have a unique gait called the tolt, making for a smooth and fun ride through the Icelandic countryside.

Before calling it a day, you might want to drop by the Secret Lagoon, a lesser-known but equally relaxing geothermal hot spring. Alternatively, the Laugarvatn Fontana Spa is another gem along the Golden Circle. Located on the tranquil shores of Lake Laugarvatn, the spa is a fantastic place to relax, featuring natural steam baths and mineral-rich hot pools. 

While at Fontana Spa, consider the geothermal rye bread experience, where you can see how locals use the earth’s natural heat to bake rye bread. Watch as the steaming loaf is unburied from the volcanic sands, then enjoy its rich, delicious taste. 

Tonight, settle into your cozy accommodation in Southwest Iceland, resting up for even more adventures ahead.

Today, you’ll journey east along Iceland’s breathtaking South Coast, known for its glaciers, volcanoes, and black sand beaches.

First up is Solheimajokull Glacier, a dramatic ice cap that stretches from the mighty Myrdalsjokull Glacier. If you’re up for an adventure, this is the perfect spot to go glacier hiking or snowmobiling across the frozen terrain. Guided tours will take you up close to the icy crevasses, with breathtaking views all around.

A short drive takes you to Solheimasandur Plane Wreck, a haunting sight set against the vast black sands. This photo-worthy relic of a crashed US Navy DC-3 has become a must-see for visitors in Iceland.

Continuing on, arrive in the fishing village of Vik. While here, you can join a tour of Myrdalsjokull glacier and step inside a natural ice cave, the only one accessible in summer! Discover the cave’s frozen chambers and shimmering blue walls.

Outside Vik, you'll find Reynisfjara Beach, one of Iceland’s most famous coastal spots. This black sand beach is known for the towering Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks that stand like sinking fortresses in the waves. The nearby basalt column cliffs form a striking geometric pattern, perfect for photos. Watch out for the powerful sneaker waves of the North Atlantic; they can be unpredictable!

Next, you'll reach Skaftafell Nature Reserve, part of the massive Vatnajokull National Park. This area is a hiker’s paradise, with trails leading through lush valleys, icy rivers, and breathtaking glaciers. 

If you're up for a scenic walk, don’t miss the 3.1-mile (5-kilometer) trail to Svartifoss Waterfall. This hidden gem is surrounded by striking hexagonal basalt columns, resembling a natural cathedral.

You can also join a glacier hiking tour and walk on the ice with guides. For a more breathtaking view, consider a sightseeing flight over the Vatnajokull Glacier. Soar above Iceland’s largest glacier and witness its majestic expanse from the sky. You can choose to do these activities today or save them for tomorrow.

Driving further east, you’ll arrive at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Massive icebergs break from Breidamerkurjokull Glacier and float across the lagoon, with seals often swimming among the ice.

Right across the road, Diamond Beach awaits. This black sand shore is scattered with shimmering ice chunks, glistening like diamonds under the sun.

Tonight, you'll stay in Southeast Iceland, close to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Rest up because there’s more adventure ahead!