How Many Days to Spend in Iceland

How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland?

Deciding how many days to spend in Iceland depends greatly on your travel plans and what you hope to achieve. In truth, it will take months to discover all the hidden spots in Iceland's nature, but you can certainly get a great introduction with a much shorter time frame!

Here are general guidelines as to how much you can aim to do with different lengths of time in Iceland. These are best done in summer, so remember to add flexibility to your plans if visiting during the colder months!

Layover in Iceland

If you just have a few hours in Iceland, it's best to explore the city center of Reykjavik or visit the Blue Lagoon, a 30-minute drive from Keflavik Airport. You can book Blue Lagoon tours, many of which have transfers, so you don't have to worry about renting a car for such a short time.

For example, you can book this transfer from Keflavik Airport for your arrival and then enjoy your Blue Lagoon admission without any stress. After, you simply hop on your transfer back to Keflavik Airport and continue your adventure!

Weekend or Stopover in Iceland

With 2-3 days in Iceland, you have time to explore the charming streets of Iceland's capital or squeeze in a shorter day trip from Reykjavik. You can then use your evening to enjoy a dip in a geothermal spa and have dinner at one of the best restaurants in Reykjavik.

4-5 Days in Iceland

If you have between 4-5 days in Iceland, you have enough time to hit some of the major hotspots and get a taste of the country's charm. Book accommodation in Reykjavik, rent an affordable car, or go for guided tours. You can then explore the South Coast and Golden Circle and maybe even spend an extra day on the Snaefellsnes peninsula if you're feeling really ambitious!

One Week in Iceland

If you have a full week or more in Iceland, we highly recommend renting a car and doing a self-drive tour. You can see the best attractions by the Ring Road or enjoy discovering all the secrets of a particular region without stress. This is a great time frame for your first time in Iceland.

Longer Trips in Iceland

Two weeks or more is plenty of time to enjoy all the many things Iceland has to offer. With this time frame, you can complete the whole Ring Road, with the Snaefellsnes peninsula, and even the dramatic Westfjords if the weather allows. 

These guidelines give an idea of what you can expect, but it's always best to plan your Iceland itinerary with flexibility in mind. As you explore the country, you'll encounter countless places where you may want to make a spontaneous stop!

It's also important to account for sudden weather changes, especially if you're visiting between late fall and early spring, when storms, icy roads, and snowfall can make travel difficult. Remember that some locations are best explored over the warmer months, so if you visit Iceland in winter, leave places like the Westfjords for next time.

This is why it's best to book a vacation package for your trip, especially for longer visits. You can customize your itinerary, plan your activities, choose your accommodation around Iceland, and rent your car in one place. It makes planning so much easier, and you'll have help from a personal travel agent if you need assistance with your bookings, itinerary, or other arrangements throughout your trip.

Regardless of the length of your stay, the time spent in Iceland should align with your travel goals and desired pace. Many travelers find that one visit isn't enough to cover all their interests, often planning return trips to explore new areas or revisit their favorites more thoroughly.

• Discover the 18 Things To Do & Places to Visit In Iceland
• See also: 40 Best Locations in Iceland

Itinerary Ideas for Iceland

Once you know how much time you need for Iceland, it's time to get planning! Here are some great itinerary ideas for a memorable adventure. Remember that these are best done in summer, as you'll want to add some flexibility to your schedule if visiting in winter.

Maximizing a Stopover in Iceland

The time frame of a stopover can range from just a few hours to a full day or two, so that will greatly affect what you'll be able to do. If you're staying long enough, we recommend either booking accommodation by Keflavik Airport if you have an early flight or staying in the center of Reykjavik.

If you just want to see Reykjavik, you can book an airport transfer, which brings you to the main downtown area. If you have time to see nature outside city limits, it's best to either book one exciting day tour or rent a car. If you're visiting in winter, doing northern lights tours in the evenings is a great idea.

If you have a full day, you can do a Golden Circle tour in around five hours or explore the South Coast up to the town of Vik. Stop by the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and Reynisfjara black sand beach. This is best done with an affordable rental car, but guided South Coast tours are also very convenient!

• Find more short itinerary ideas: What to Do During a Stopover in Iceland
• See also: The Best Things to Do Near Reykjavik

3-4 days in Iceland Itinerary

For a 3 or 4-day trip in Iceland, you'll have time to experience some of the country's breathtaking highlights with some planning. After your flight, head to Reykjavik and settle in your accommodation.

Spend your first day exploring the colorful streets and visit landmarks like the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church and the Harpa concert hall. You can have dinner at a great restaurant in the evening and enjoy the Reykjavik nightlife.

Alternatively, you can enjoy an evening dip at the Sky Lagoon. It can easily be included in your Reykjavik exploration if you have a rental car, take public transport, or book your Sky Lagoon admission with a transfer.

• Learn about the Top 12 Things to Do in Reykjavik
• See also: Blue Lagoon vs. Sky Lagoon: Which One Should You Visit?

Dedicate your second day to a Golden Circle tour. It includes the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

On your third day, tour the South Coast to see the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and visit the striking black sand beach at Reynisfjara.

• Enjoy a visit to the Best Restaurants on the South Coast of Iceland

If you have a fourth day to spare, you can book South Coast accommodation for a night and travel all the way to the stunning Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach. Just make sure to account for the travel time back to the airport!

Otherwise, spending your last day doing activities in Reykjavik is best so you don't have to stress. If time allows, book a Blue Lagoon visit before your flight home, as it's located along the road to Keflavik Airport. This geothermal spa is perfect for unwinding and reflecting on your adventure.

• See more: What to Do With 3 Days in Iceland
• See also: Best Ideas for What to Do With 4 Days in Iceland

Week in Iceland Itinerary

We highly recommend renting a car for up to a week in Iceland as you'll have much more freedom to explore. Follow the 3-4 day itinerary, but take more time on the South Coast by booking a hotel or guesthouse for a night. A convenient location choice is either in the towns of Vik or Kirkjubaejarklaustur.

This will allow you to see more of the region's natural beauty and enjoy more unique activities, such as ice caving, glacier hiking, horse riding tours, or exploring longer hiking trails!

We recommend enjoying a tour of the Snaefellsnes peninsula for your fifth day and staying a night in Snaefellsnes accommodation. The region is often called "Iceland in miniature" as it features a vast diversity in terrain, giving a glimpse of the different landscapes around the country.

It has some iconic attractions, like the Kirkjufell mountain and Snaefellsjokull National Park, and the coastline is dotted with tiny villages. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the town of Stykkisholmur, and stroll along the town's beautiful harbor!

Spend your sixth day traveling back to Reykjavik by exploring the Borgarfjordur fjord. West Iceland has many beautiful locations, such as the Hraunfossar waterfall and Deilartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring. The water is used to warm the Krauma Spa, so take the chance to visit while there and enjoy a soak!

For a touch of adventure, head to the Husafell area. You can go caving in Vidgelmir, one of Iceland’s largest lava tubes, and try the Into the Glacier experience in the Langjokull glacier.

If you don't have a rental car but want to explore the region, you don't have to miss out. You can visit with this 9-hour minibus tour of West Iceland from Reykjavik, which includes a Krauma Spa admission.

Spend your last night in Reykjavik to enjoy a stress-free departure day. If you're returning a rental car by Keflavik Airport and have some extra time, extend your trip to the airport and see the dramatic sights on the Reykjanes peninsula. You can also use the chance to visit the Blue Lagoon!

• Find the 30 Best Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools in Iceland
• Learn about the 22 Best Things to Do on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Ideas for Two or More Weeks in Iceland

The Lomagnupur mountain is next to the Ring Road, between Kirkjubaejarklaustur and the Skaftafell Nature Reserve.

If you have more than a week to spend on your Iceland visit, you have so much freedom to explore all the country offers. This is the perfect chance to complete the whole tour of the Ring Road with a rental car or campervan if you want to save on accommodation.

The Ring Road stretches approximately 1,332 kilometers and passes through diverse landscapes, including volcanoes, glaciers, lava fields, waterfalls, and quiet villages. Doing the circle counter-clockwise is most popular, so start from Reykjavik and head towards Vik.

Depending on your flight arrival time, spend your first night in Reykjavik and see the major city sights, visit museums, and enjoy the restaurant scene. Then, start your road trip with the Golden Circle area. We highly recommend finding accommodation in the Golden Circle for your second night before continuing further south, as you'll want plenty of time for spontaneous stops in the region.

• Plan your trip with the Ultimate Guide to Iceland's Golden Circle
• Also, check out 20 Hidden Gems in Iceland: Go Off-the-Beaten-Path
• See more: Camping in Iceland | All You Need to Know

Photo from Glacier Hiking Tour on Solheimajokull

Take time to stop at the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and other interesting South Coast sights on the way. Consider including an adventure like this glacier hike on Solheimajokull and this Jokulsarlon boat tour to experience the beautiful icebergs up close.

Depending on how much you want to see in the region, we recommend spending at least two days traveling to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Stay in Vik for your third night and book accommodation in Hofn for your fourth night, the closest town to the glacier lagoon.

• Try the Best Restaurants in Vik during your stay!
• See also: The Ultimate Guide to Iceland's South Coast

The town of Seydisfjordur is especially charming!

Once you've thoroughly explored all the beautiful South Coast locations on your wish list, it's time to head to East Iceland. The Eastfjords are a quieter region than the South as it can't be explored as part of a day trip from Reykjavik. It's home to winding fjords, towering mountains, and lovely fishing villages, with plenty of chances to be alone with nature.

The town of Seydisfjordur is very popular for its colorful, old houses and blue church, so it's a good place to find East Iceland accommodation. You can also stay in Egilsstadir, the largest town in the region, but both are worth a visit!

• Add the Best Places to Visit in East Iceland to your Ring Road itinerary!
• Also, check out all the Best Restaurants in East Iceland

Photo from Family-Run Husavík Whale Watching Tour

Once you've spent a day or two taking in the eastern region, continue your journey to North Iceland. On your way, spend the day exploring the Dettifoss waterfall and Asbyrgi canyon, and then head to the charming town of Husavik.

The town is known as the best place for whale-watching in Iceland, so make sure to try a whale-watching tour! You can either stay in Husavik accommodation or continue your trip to Akureyri, the "Capital of North Iceland" and the largest town outside the Capital Region.

This route is known as the Diamond Circle, which also includes the Lake Myvatn area, which you should spend the next day discovering. Northeast Icleand has a lot to offer, but make sure to account for at least two whole days to explore.

We also recommend taking a day to enjoy Akureyri and some of the fun Akureyri tours and experiences that are available. It's one of the more charming towns in Iceland, with colorful old houses, interesting museums, beautiful botanical gardens, and a great food scene.

• Enjoy a visit to the Best Restaurants in North Iceland
• See also: The Ultimate Guide to Lake Myvatn
• Check out the 13 Best Things to Do in Akureyri (and Nearby)

Once you've explored to your heart's content in North Iceland, you have a few options. If you're short on time, you can travel straight from Akureyri to Reykjavik, spending your final night in the capital. There are plenty of things to experience as you travel through Northwest Iceland, such as the Hvitserkur rock formation, seal watching at the Vatnsnes peninsula, the Glaumbaer open-air museum, and the 1238 Battle of Iceland exhibition.

However, if you have at least one or two more days, take the chance to see the Snaefellsnes peninsula. If you have at least five days to spare after Akureyri, you can also include a detour to the rugged Westfjords. It's well worth it, but know that it's best to travel around this region with a 4x4 rental car, as the road can be challenging and take your time.

If you're including the Westfjords in your trip, plan your next night after Akureyri in Holmavik. This little town is known for the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft, a must-visit in the region.

Enjoy the winding fjords leading to Isafjordur, the largest town in the Westfjords. If you have plenty of time, explore the area and spend the night in Isafjordur accommodation. Consider going on a sightseeing tour of the Hornstrandir nature reserve, the most isolated area in Iceland!

Then, continue your journey to Patreksfjordur. On the way, stop at Thingeyri for an authentic Belgian waffle at the Simbahöllinn coffee house before heading to the dramatic Dynjandi waterfall. After a night in Patreksfjordur, see the Latrabjarg cliffs and Raudisandur beach before heading to the Snaefellsnes peninsula.

• Plan your trip with the Ultimate Guide to the Westfjords of Iceland

While you can drive the whole way, it will take around 6 to 7 hours, excluding stops. Because of this, we highly recommend booking a ferry from the Westfjords to the Snaefellsnes peninsula, which includes a stop on the tiny Flatey island.

This will save you from having to drive the last two or three hours of driving, letting you relax instead. It brings you straight to Stykkisholmur, where you'll find your Snaefellsnes accommodation!

Spend a day or two driving around the Snaefellsnes peninsula, seeing all the major sights, before heading back to Reykjavik. Spend your last night in Reykjavik accommodation.

If you have the time, you can see some of the Reykjanes peninsula on your way to Keflavik Airport and make a stop in the Blue Lagoon before saying goodbye to Iceland!

• See more: Top 5 Best Road Trips in Iceland (with full itineraries!)

What to Consider When Planning an Iceland Vacation

When planning a vacation to Iceland, it's important to consider the time of year you visit and how you'll get around. These factors can greatly influence your experience in this unique and beautiful country.

What to Consider for Different Seasons in Iceland

Iceland's seasons each offer something special. During the summer months, from June to August, you can enjoy the Midnight Sun, when the sun barely sets, giving you long days to explore the outdoors. The weather is milder, and it's a great time for hiking and seeing the lush, green landscapes. However, summer is also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices.

Winter, from November to March, is ideal if you're interested in the northern lights. The days are short and cold, but the snowy scenery and fewer tourists make it a magical time to visit. Keep in mind that some roads and attractions may be closed due to weather.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with fewer tourists and milder weather, making them perfect for those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy nature's changing colors!

• Learn all about Iceland's Seasonal Contrasts
• See also: The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Should You Rent a Car or Book Guided Tours in Iceland?

Deciding between joining tours or renting a car depends on your comfort level and what you want to see. Tours can offer convenience and deep insights into the areas you visit. They're especially good for those who prefer not to drive or visit in winter when road conditions are more challenging.

Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Iceland at your own pace. It's an excellent option in the warmer months when the roads are clear. You can venture off the beaten path, visit small villages, and stop whenever a beautiful view catches your eye. Just make sure you're comfortable with remote and possibly rugged driving conditions.

By considering the season and your travel style, whether relaxing with organized tours or adventuring by car, you can tailor your Iceland vacation to fit your interests and comfort perfectly.

• Learn about Driving in Iceland: The Ultimate Guide to Road Trips
• See more: Best Guide to Rental Car Sizes in Iceland

FAQ's About How Many Days to Spend in Iceland

Haven't found the information you need yet? Here are some frequently asked questions about how many days you need for Iceland.

How many days are recommended for a first trip to Iceland?

7 days is typically ideal for a first visit to Iceland. This allows you to explore the famous Golden Circle, spend a few days in Reykjavik, and venture to either the South Coast or head to North Iceland to visit Akureyri and the lake Myvatn area.

How many days do I need for the Ring Road?

You need at least a week to complete the Ring Road, but more days are recommended so the experience won't feel rushed. Spending at least 10 to 14 days is recommended as it allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions at a more relaxed pace.

With one or two weeks, you can include detours to lesser-known areas, enjoy various activities like hiking or hot spring visits, and have enough flexibility from unpredictable weather changes. This itinerary ensures you don't have to rush through the sights and can fully enjoy the natural beauty Iceland has to offer.

How many days should I spend in Reykjavik?

Two to three days in Reykjavik are usually enough for most travelers. This gives you enough time to explore the city's main attractions, including the Hallgrimskirkja church, the Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager sculpture.

Additionally, you can visit some of the city's excellent museums, such as the National Museum of Iceland or the Arbaejarsafn Open Air Museum. Spending a couple of days also allows you to experience Reykjavik’s excellent culinary scene and nightlife.

Can I see the main attractions of Iceland on a shorter trip?

If you have 3 to 4 days, you can still experience some of Iceland's top attractions. Focus on the Golden Circle and a day or two in Reykjavik. Short trips like these are perfect for those on a stopover in Iceland.

What's the best time of year to visit Iceland?

Summer (June to August) is great for warmer weather and longer days and is ideal for hiking and exploring nature. It's also when you can visit the Highlands. Winter (November to March) is perfect for those wanting to see the northern lights and experience Iceland’s snowy landscapes.

Is it possible to visit the Icelandic highlands on a short trip?

The Icelandic Highlands are only accessible during the height of summer and require a good 4x4 rental vehicle. If you have limited time, fitting a highlands visit into your itinerary might be challenging without sacrificing other experiences.

What regions of Iceland would you most like to visit? How would you optimize your itinerary? Have you visited Iceland before? Did you rent a car or go on a tour? Share your thoughts and experience in the comment section below!