Amazing 10-Day Game of Thrones Self-Drive Tour of Iceland with Filming Locations

Welcome to Iceland, or should we say Westeros, the land of ice and fire. 

As you arrive at Keflavik International Airport, you'll immediately sense the dramatic landscapes that have served as the backdrop for countless scenes from Game of Thrones. The airport is located on the Reykjanes peninsula, a region with rugged lava fields and sweeping ocean views. 

Once you've collected your rental vehicle, your journey begins with a drive to Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital city. The drive from the airport to Reykjavik takes 45 minutes to an hour. 

Along the way, travelers may want to make an optional stop at the famous Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's most iconic geothermal spas. Surrounded by black lava fields, the milky-blue waters of the lagoon offer the perfect opportunity to relax after a long flight.

If you add the Blue Lagoon to your itinerary, it will be arranged according to your flights. If you prefer doing something else today, this experience can be added to another day. Your travel consultant can arrange this for you.

Once back on the road, you'll continue your journey to Reykjavik. Though small in size, Reykjavik is brimming with charm and culture. 

After checking into your accommodation for the night, you'll have a few options for how to spend the remainder of your evening. If you're feeling a bit jet-lagged, it may be wise to rest and recharge in preparation for the adventure that begins tomorrow. 

However, if you have energy to spare, Reykjavik offers a vibrant nightlife that's well worth exploring. Laugavegur, the city's main shopping street, transforms in the evening, with its cozy cafés and restaurants giving way to lively bars and clubs. 

Icelandic nightlife is known for its late hours, so you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the city's energy if you're up for it.

For those who prefer a more low-key start, Reykjavik is a fantastic city to explore on foot. You can admire the colorful rooftops, striking street art, and iconic landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja church. 

This is just the beginning of your epic Icelandic adventure. Tomorrow, the journey into the true wilds of Westeros begins!

On day two, you will take off towards Iceland's most popular sightseeing route, the Golden Circle, which comprises three major attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

This area is also the shooting location for the Game of Thrones' The Eyrie. You will see Thingvellir's jagged canyon, Almannagja, known as the entrance to The Eyrie, which was made famous by season 3 featuring Littlefinger and Arya Stark.

The other major highlights are two of Iceland's most popular attractions. You will visit Haukadalur, famed for its geysers, Geysir and Strokkur. Strokkur erupts every five to ten minutes, shooting jets of water high into the air to heights of 66 feet (20 meters).

Gullfoss waterfall, only a short distance away, sees glacial water cascading over two rocky crags, dropping 105 feet (32 meters) in total. Both of these areas will leave you with lasting memories of your second day in the country.

There is also the opportunity to partake in an extra activity on your second day. The choice is entirely up to you. For instance, you could take a snorkeling trip into the glacial spring, Silfra fissure, known for its dramatic underwater scenery and near 328 feet (100-meter) visibility.

If you plan on joining the snorkeling tour, you need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

Alternatively, you could decide to go snowmobiling on the glittering glacier, Langjokull. This is known to be one of the most exhilarating experiences in Iceland and is sure to put you in the adventurous spirit. 

Or, to really feel a part of the Game of Thrones universe, you could choose to book a horse riding tour, galloping through Iceland's impressive countryside and making you feel even closer to your favorite Game of Thrones character.

You will then spend the night near the southern town of Selfoss or a nearby area in Southeast Iceland. There are very few houses around this settlement, making it a prime location to try and spot the northern lights if you are visiting in the winter.

Today, you’ll dive into one of Iceland’s most beloved regions, the South Coast. Not only is it a treasure trove of natural wonders, but it also served as the filming location for Eastwatch-by-the-Sea, the only castle along the Wall that stands by the coast in Game of Thrones.

Fans of the series will recognize this area from the dramatic Season 7 finale, where Jon Snow and his companions face off against the terrifying army of the dead. With its rugged cliffs, mighty waves, and magnificent landscapes, the South Coast perfectly captures the cold, wild beauty of the North in Westeros.

Your drive begins with a visit to Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall famous for allowing visitors to walk behind its cascading water. This 200-foot (60-meter) high beauty offers a unique perspective as you experience the waterfall from all angles. 

Just a short drive away is the equally impressive Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. Skogafoss has the same height as Seljalandsfoss but with a wider cascade. Rainbows often grace the waterfall on sunny days. 

Next, you’ll head to Reynisfjara black sand beach, near the village of Vik. Known for its volcanic black sands and towering basalt sea stacks, Reynisfjara is otherworldly in appearance, with powerful Atlantic waves crashing against the shore. 

To spice up your day three, you’ll have the chance to choose from several optional activities. 

For adventure seekers, a glacier hike on Solehimajokull will allow you to explore the ancient ice formations and deep crevasses of Iceland’s glaciers with an expert guide. 

Alternatively, you can visit an ice cave at Katla volcano, offering a surreal underground experience beneath layers of volcanic ice. 

Other options include horseback riding on black sands, an ATV adventure, or glacier snowmobiling, each offering a thrilling way to immerse yourself in Iceland’s rugged beauty.

End your day in the village of Vik, where you can learn more about local culture before heading to your accommodation on the South Coast.

Your self-drive tour in Iceland continues on day four as you explore more of the South Coast. 

Many of the scenes from Game of Thrones were shot at your next stop, the Skaftafell Nature Reserve. The nature reserve is part of the much larger Vatnajokull National Park.

For a more immersive trip, don't miss out on adding an optional glacier hiking adventure while in Skaftafell. Joining means that you will be surrounded by the landscapes of Westeros and its wilderness, exploring the very scenery that makes both Games of Thrones and Iceland so compelling.

The major stop of the day will be at the "Crown Jewel of Iceland," Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, an attraction that boasts enormous icebergs floating on a still and glittering surface. Home to resident seals and with stunning surrounding views characterized by mountains and ice caps, Jokulsarlon is undoubtedly one of the most incredible sites in Iceland.

A short walk away, guests can also visit Diamond Beach, a stretch of shoreline where icebergs wash up against the black sand on their journey out toward the Atlantic ocean.

If you're taking part in this journey during the summer, it is possible to add on boat tours or kayaking tours on Jokulsarlon. Both tours can take you right up close to the floating icebergs.

Those visiting in the winter could also choose to explore one of the ice caves located inside Vatnajokull with a guided excursion. These ice caves are much bluer than those further down the South Coast and make for one of the most unique experiences available during the Icelandic winter months.

You will spend the night in Hofn or a nearby area in Southeast Iceland. Hofn is a coastal town serving the best Icelandic lobster and seafood. It is a great place for dinner and to search for the northern lights in the winter.

On day five, you’ll explore one of Iceland’s most remote and captivating regions, the Eastfjords. This lesser-visited area of Iceland is often overlooked due to its distance from Reykjavik. With ten days on your itinerary, you have the luxury of time to immerse yourself in its beauty. 

The Eastfjords are renowned for their majestic landscapes, where towering mountains meet the sea, and wild reindeer roam freely across the vast wilderness. This is a place where nature’s raw power is ever-present, making it feel like a world straight out of Westeros.

As you drive from Southeast Iceland to the Eastfjords, a visit to Stokksnes and the imposing Vestrahorn mountain is a must. Often called “Batman Mountain” or “Iceland’s Horniest Mountain” due to its jagged peaks that resemble the silhouette of bat wings or horns, Vestrahorn is an unforgettable sight. 

The mountain’s peaks, paired with the black sand beaches and windswept plains surrounding it, create a cinematic landscape. It’s no wonder photographers and filmmakers are drawn to this spot.

As you travel through the region, you’ll come across charming fishing villages that have thrived for centuries along the fjord-lined coastline. Each village has its own unique character, offering a glimpse into Iceland’s maritime culture and history. 

These peaceful settlements offer a break from the more touristy areas of the country. Staying here will make you experience Iceland’s quieter, more intimate side.

Your day concludes in the town of Egilsstadir, where you’ll settle into your accommodation for the night. Egilsstadir is considered the capital of East Iceland and has great restaurants, local attractions, and nearby places of interest.

Before you rest, consider visiting nearby Lagarfljot lake, home to a legendary wyrm monster said to inhabit its depths. While Iceland may lack dragons, its folklore is full of mythical creatures, making your journey even more magical.

Today, you'll leave Egilsstadir and continue your adventure to Lake Myvatn and Akureyri in North Iceland.

The Myvatn area is known to Game of Thrones fans as the location for the Wildling Camp, which evokes the wild, untamed beauty of the lands beyond the Wall. In the show, this landscape is home to wild creatures and endures brutal winters. 

In reality, Myvatn is a stunning natural area famous for its vast lake, geothermal features, volcanic landscapes, and rich birdlife. 

A must-see feature here is Dimmuborgir (meaning "Dark Fortresses"), a vast field of twisted lava formations and caves that look like a fortress built by giants. It's easy to imagine it as a setting in a fantasy world, with its strange and towering structures.

Not far from here is Namaskard, a geothermal pass known for its bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. 

Grjotagja cave, on the lake's eastern shores, is perhaps best known to Game of Thrones fans as the "lovenest" of Jon Snow and Ygritte. The cave's interior is filled with naturally heated water, creating a steamy, intimate atmosphere. 

While the cave is no longer suitable for bathing due to rising temperatures, it's still a remarkable place to visit, both for its beauty and its connection to the series.

Afterward, you'll travel to Akureyri, the unofficial capital of North Iceland. Nestled at the base of snow-capped mountains and overlooking Eyjafjordur, Akureyri is a charming town known for its vibrant cultural scene, bustling harbor, scenic views, and lovely cafes.

For those seeking adventure, Akureyri offers several optional experiences. In the summer, you can embark on a whale watching tour, where you'll have the chance to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life. 

If you're visiting in winter, consider joining a northern lights hunting tour, where expert guides will take you to the best spots to see the magical auroras dance across the Arctic skies.

Year-round, you can visit the Forest Lagoon for a relaxing geothermal spa set within a forested area and along a fjord.

After a day filled with exploration and natural wonders, you'll spend the night in Akureyri.

Today, you'll journey to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature" because it encapsulates the country's diverse natural beauty within a small area. 

Your exploration begins with a visit to the peninsula's most iconic site, Kirkjufell, located on the north side of Snaefellsnes. Known as one of Iceland's most photographed mountains, Kirkjufell's distinctive arrowhead shape rises dramatically from the surrounding landscape. 

Game of Thrones fans will recognize it from both Season 3 and Season 7. In Season 3, Kirkjufell and its surroundings appear as the lush summer lands where the Children of the Forest are shown creating the White Walkers. 

The area later reappears in Season 7, when the Hound describes it as the "mountain like an arrowhead" during Jon Snow's expedition beyond the Wall. Kirkjufell's striking form is awe-inspiring, especially when viewed with the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall in the foreground.

As you continue your journey, you'll discover other highlights of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, including the imposing Snaefellsjokull glacier. This glacier-capped volcano famously served as the setting for Jules Verne's classic novel Journey to the Center of the Earth. 

Next is the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi, where dramatic sea cliffs provide a home for seabirds and incredible rock formations. Take some time to stroll along the coastline to see the area's basalt columns, caves, and arches against the roaring Atlantic Ocean.

A stop at Djupalonssandur beach offers a glimpse into Iceland's maritime history, with its black pebbled shores and the remnants of shipwrecks scattered along the sand. You can also try your hand at the traditional lifting stones here, used by fishermen to test their strength.

Finally, don't miss the quaint Budir black church. Its black wooden structure surrounded by moss-covered lava fields is a photographer's dream and a symbol of Iceland's isolated yet profound beauty.

As the day draws to a close, you'll settle into your accommodations in the Snaefellsnes peninsula.

On day eight of your 10-day trip around Iceland, you'll begin your journey back to Reykjavik, but not without exploring some remarkable sites along the way. 

West Iceland is a region known for its stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls, glaciers, lava fields, and rich historical significance. This area around Borgarfjordur has been inhabited since Iceland's earliest settlers, and many of the key events from the Icelandic Sagas unfolded here, making it a must-visit for history lovers.

As you travel through this region, one of your ideal stops could be Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring. This hot spring gushes boiling water at 180 liters (380 pints) per second. 

For those interested in Icelandic history, the nearby village of Reykholt is another excellent stop. Once the home of Snorri Sturluson, one of Iceland's most famous medieval poets and historians, Reykholt offers a deep dive into Iceland's cultural heritage. You can visit Snorri's geothermal bath and learn more about his contributions to the Icelandic Sagas.

On top of beautiful attractions, you also have several optional activities that you can choose from when booking. One choice is to explore Iceland's underground world by visiting one of its lava caves, such as Vatnshellir or Vidgelmir. These caves offer a fascinating look at the island's volcanic past, with their unique rock formations and ancient lava flows.

If you prefer something more relaxing, consider stopping by one of the region's hot springs. Krauma Spa, Hvammsvik Hot Springs, or Husafell Canyon Baths are all excellent choices for a peaceful soak in geothermal waters. 

As you approach Reykjavik, you can spend the rest of your day exploring the city on your own or join a guided cultural tour to learn more about Iceland's history and culture. Reykjavik has a lot to offer, from its colorful streets and unique architecture to its vibrant arts scene.

After a full day of exploration, you'll go to your hotel in Reykjavik for a good night's rest, ready for the final days of your Icelandic adventure.